bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Completeness metrics and the quality of the sauropodomorph fossil record through geological and historical time
Authors: Mannion Philip D. , Upchurch Paul
Published: April 2010

Despite increasing concerns about the effect of sampling biases on our reading of the fossil record, few studies have considered the completeness of the fossil remains themselves, and those that have tend to apply non-quantitative measures of preservation quality. Here we outline two new types of metric for quantifying the completeness of the fossil remains of taxa through time, using sauropodomorph dinosaurs as a case study. The “Skeletal Completeness Metric” divides the skeleton up into percentages based on the amount of bone for each region, whereas the “Character Completeness Metric” is based on the number of characters that can be scored for each skeletal element in phylogenetic analyses. For both metrics we calculated the completeness of the most complete individual and of the type specimen. We also calculated how well the taxon as a whole is known from its remains. We then plotted these results against both geological and historical time, and compared curves of the former with fluctuations in sauropodomorph diversity, sea level, and sedimentary rock outcrop area. Completeness through the Mesozoic shows a number of peaks and troughs; the Early Jurassic (Hettangian–Sinemurian) is the interval with highest completeness, whereas the mid-to-Late Cretaceous has completeness levels that are consistently lower than the rest of the Mesozoic. Completeness shows no relationship to rock outcrop area, but it is negatively correlated with sea level during the Jurassic–Early Cretaceous and correlated with diversity in the Cretaceous. Completeness of sauropodomorph type specimens has improved from 1830 to the present, supporting the conclusions of other recent studies. However, when this time interval is partitioned, we find no trend for an increase in completeness from the 1990s onward. Moreover, the 2000s represent one of the poorest decades in terms of average type specimen completeness. These results highlight the need for quantitative methods when assessing fossil record quality through geological time or when drawing conclusions about historical trends in the completeness of taxa. The new metrics may also prove useful as sampling proxies in diversity studies.
Analysis of geosynthetic reinforcement in pile-supported embankments. Part I: 3D plate model
Authors: Jones B.M. , Plaut R.H. , Filz G.M.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT: Geosynthetic reinforcement over a grid of piles in soft soil can help transfer loads to the piles, and reduce settlements. This first part of a three-part study utilises a three-dimensional thin-plate model of the geosynthetic. The von Kármán theory, which includes the effects of bending and stretching, is used. The geosynthetic layer is represented using a linear stress–strain relationship. Owing to symmetry, a one-eighth triangular section of a square unit cell is considered, and the pile caps have either a square, diamond or circular shape. The soil between the pile caps and the geosynthetic, and the soft soil between the piles, are modelled as linear foundations with specified stiffnesses. The embankment stresses over the piles and over the soft soil are also specified. The numerical procedure involves finite differences and minimisation of the total energy. For two sets of parameter values, the effects of the shape of the pile caps on the displacements, strains and net stress reduction ratio are investigated. Sharp spikes in strain and stress occur at the edges of the pile caps. The second paper in this study adopts a three-dimensional cable-net model of the geosynthetic, and an axisymmetric model is analysed in the final paper.
Acellular Dermal Matrix Seeded With Autologous Gingival Fibroblasts for the Treatment of Gingival Recession: A Proof‐of‐Concept Study
Authors: Jhaveri Hiral M. , Chavan Mahesh S. , Tomar Geetanjali B. , Deshmukh Vijay L. , Wani Mohan R. , Miller Preston D.
Published: April 2010

Background: One of the most common esthetic concerns associated with periodontal tissues is gingival recession. There are multiple periodontal plastic surgery approaches documented in the literature for the treatment of such defects. With the tremendous advances being made in periodontal science and technology, tissue engineering could be considered among the latest exciting techniques for recession management.

Methods: In this split‐mouth, controlled, double‐masked clinical case series, 20 sites from 10 patients with Miller Class I or II recessions affecting canines or premolars in the maxillary arch were selected. One tooth in each patient was randomized to receive either a subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) (control group) or an acellular dermal matrix allograft (ADMA) seeded with autologous gingival fibroblasts (test group) under a coronally positioned flap. Clinical parameters, including recession depth, probing depth, clinical attachment level, width of keratinized tissue, attached gingiva, and plaque scores, were recorded by a calibrated examiner at baseline and 3 and 6 months. The inflammation of grafted sites was scored, and the healing time was calculated. The final esthetic outcome of treated sites was assessed by the root coverage esthetic score at the end of 6 months.

Results: There were no significant differences between test and control sites for all measured clinical parameters. However, the test sites demonstrated less inflammation in the early postoperative period.

Conclusion: Within the limits of this case series, the results indicate that an ADMA seeded with autologous gingival fibroblasts by tissue‐engineering technology may be explored as a substitute to an SCTG for the treatment of Miller Class I and II recession defects.
Clinical Evaluation of Single‐Stage Advanced Versus Rotated Flaps in the Treatment of Gingival Recessions
Authors: Santana Ronaldo B. , Furtado Maira B. , Mattos Carolina M.L. , de Mello Fonseca Edgard , Dibart Serge
Published: April 2010

Background: Several procedures have been reported for the surgical correction of gingival recession (GR), including the laterally positioned flap (LPF) and the coronally advanced flap (CAF), performed as single‐ or two‐stage procedures without or with, respectively, the preceding placement and healing of a free gingival graft. The objective of the present report was to compare the efficacy of single‐stage LPF and CAF techniques in the treatment of localized maxillary GR defects.

Methods: Thirty‐six patients, 10 men and 26 women, with average age of 34 ± 9 years with Miller Class I GR defects were randomly assigned to be treated by either a CAF (n = 18) or LPF (n = 18). Clinical parameters, including recession height, the width of keratinized tissue (WKT), probing depth, and vertical clinical attachment level were assessed at the mid‐buccal site. Visual plaque score and bleeding on probing were also assessed dichotomously. Clinical recordings were performed at baseline and 6 months later. Intermeasurements differences were analyzed with a chi‐square or a Wilcoxon test, with significance set at α<0.05.

Results: Both flap designs were effective in treating recession defects resulting in similar improvements for percentage of root coverage, frequency of complete root coverage, and gain in clinical attachment level. The LPF resulted in significantly more gains in WKT than the CAF.

Conclusion: The results obtained by CAF in the treatment of Miller Class I maxillary GR are clinically similar to the LPF albeit with more limited gains in WKT.
A Histomorphometric Study of Nanothickness and Plasma‐Sprayed Calcium–Phosphorous‐Coated Implant Surfaces in Rabbit Bone
Authors: Quaranta Alessandro , Iezzi Giovanna , Scarano Antonio , Coelho Paulo G. , Vozza Iole , Marincola Mauro , Piattelli Adriano
Published: April 2010

Background: Novel implant surface treatments with a nanothickness bioactive ceramic deposition onto rough surfaces have been recently introduced. This study aims to evaluate histologically and histomorphometrically (bone‐to‐implant contact [BIC] and bone area fraction occupancy [BAFO]) the early bone response to plasma‐sprayed calcium–phosphate (PSCaP)‐coated versus a 300‐ to 500‐nm thickness bioactive ceramic nano‐coated plateau root form implants in a rabbit femur model.

Methods: A total of 48 plateau root form implants were bilaterally placed in the distal aspect of the femur of 12 white New Zealand rabbits, remaining for 20, 30, and 60 days in vivo (n = 4 animals per time in vivo, n = 2 implants per surface per animal). After sacrifice, the implants in bone were non‐decalcified processed to slides of approximately 30 μm thickness, and were morphologically and morphometrically (BIC and BAFO) evaluated.

Results: Higher degrees of bone structural organization were temporally observed for the PSCaP surface compared to the nano surface over time. BIC and BAFO was significantly higher (P <0.05) for PSCaP at all implantation times evaluated.

Conclusions: Within the limits of this study it is possible to state that bioactive ceramic coatings of both thicknesses were biocompatible and osteoconductive. However, the early bone response was favored by the presence of the thicker PSCaP coating.
A comparison study on Acid Red 119 dye removal using two different types of waterworks sludge
Authors: Sadri Moghaddam S. , Alavi Moghaddam M. R. , Arami M.
Published: April 2010

This study aims to compare the performance of two waterworks sludge samples, ferric chloride sludge (FCS) and polyaluminium chloride sludge (PACS), as coagulants to remove Acid Red 119 (AR119) dye from aqueous solution. A series of batch experiments were performed to investigate the effect of initial pH, coagulant dosage and initial dye concentration on coagulation/flocculation process efficiency. Results showed that the dye removal was strongly pH-dependent and followed the same trend for both coagulants, increasing steadily with decreasing initial pH in the range of 3–12. With the increase of coagulant dosage, the dye removal efficiency increased and no re-stabilization phenomenon was observed. However, the coagulant dosage needed for the maximum dye removal efficiency was much lower for FCS (150 mg dried sludge/L) in compare with PACS (5.5 g dried sludge/L). It seems that both charge neutralization and sweep flocculation mechanisms were involved in removal of AR119 using FCS and PACS. With the increase of initial dye concentration, Q (the amount of the removed dye per unit mass of coagulant) steadily increased and reached to a maximum value of 0.96 mg dye/mg sludge and 0.029 mg dye/mg sludge for FCS and PACS, respectively. FCS was more effective than PACS for AR119 dye removal due to the higher amount of dye removed per unit mass of sludge.
Mass balance analysis of triclosan, diethyltoluamide, crotamiton and carbamazepine in sewage treatment plants
Authors: Nakada N. , Yasojima M. , Okayasu Y. , Komori K. , Suzuki Y.
Published: April 2010

The behavior of antibacterial triclosan, insect-repellent diethyltoluamide (DEET), anticonvulsant carbamazepine, and antipruritic crotamiton was investigated at two sewage treatment plants (STPs) to clarify their complete mass balance. Twenty-four-hour flow-proportional composite samples were collected from the influent and effluent of primary and final sedimentation tanks, a biofiltration tank and disinfection tanks. Sludge samples (i.e., activated and excess sludge) and samples of the return flow from the sludge treatment process were collected in the same manner. The analytes in both the dissolved and particulate phases were individually determined by a gas chromatograph equipped with mass spectrometer. Triclosan was dominantly detected in the particulate phase especially in the early stage of treatment (up to 83%) and was efficiently removed (over 90%) in STPs, mainly by sorption to sewage sludge. Limited removal was observed for DEET (55±24%), while no significant removal was demonstrated for crotamiton or carbamazepine. The solid-water distribution coefficients (Kd, n=4) for triclosan (log Kd: 3.7–5.1), DEET (1.3–1.9) and crotamiton (1.1–1.6) in the sludge samples are also determined in this study. These findings indicate the limitations of current sewage treatment techniques for the removal of these water-soluble drugs (i.e. DEET, carbamazepine, and crotamiton).
Influence of buoyant media on particle layer dynamics in microfiltration membranes
Authors: Aryal R. K. , Vigneswaran S. , Kandasamy Jaya
Published: April 2010

This study forms a part of the physical study of the membrane bioreactor in presence of buoyancy media. Kaolin clay suspension with buoyancy media (anthracite) was used as a suspension and the particle layer development on membrane surface with evolution of time was studied. Presence of buoyancy media reduced the pressure development by almost two folds compared to in absence of the media. The particles deposition on membrane surface was size selective. The mean particle diameter (0.45 μm) deposited on the membrane surface remained almost similar in presence of the media after 7 hrs run where as in its absence the mean diameter finer particles deposition occurred at the beginning followed by coarser particles.
Continuous bioelectricity production and sustainable wastewater treatment in a microbial fuel cell constructed with non-catalyzed granular graphite electrodes and permeable membrane
Authors: Tran Hung-Thuan , Ryu Jae-Hun , Jia Yu-Hong , Oh Se-Jin , Choi Ji-Youn , Park Doo-Hyun , Ahn Dae-Hee
Published: April 2010

Oxygen has been so far addressed as the most preferable terminal electron acceptor in the cathodes of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). However, to reduce the oxygen reduction overpotential at the cathode surface, eco-unfriendly and costly catalysts have been commonly employed. Here, we pursued the possibility of using a high surface area electrode to reduce the cathodic reaction overpotential rather than the utilization of catalyzed materials. A dual chambered MFC reactor was designed with the use of graphite-granule electrodes and a permeable membrane. The performance of the reactor in terms of electricity generation and organic removal rate was examined under a continuous-feed manner. Results showed that the maximum volumetric power of 4.4±0.2 W/m3 net anodic compartment (NAC) was obtained at a current density of 11±0.5 A/m3 NAC. The power output was improved by increasing the electrolyte ionic strength. An acceptable effluent quality was attained when the organic loading rate (OLR) of 2 kgCOD/m3 NAC d was applied. The organic removal rate seemed to be less affected by shock loading. Our system can be suggested as a promising approach to make MFC-based technology economically viable for wastewater treatment applications. This study shows that current generation can be remarkably improved in comparison with several other studies using a low-surface-area plain graphite electrode.
Determination of several potential virulence factors in non-o1 Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, faecal coliforms and streptococci isolated from Marrakesh groundwater
Authors: Lamrani Alaoui Hafsa , Oufdou Khalid , Mezrioui Nour-eddine
Published: April 2010

The dynamic, hemolytic and hemagglutination activities and the antibiotic resistance of non-O1 Vibrio cholerae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, faecal coliforms (FC) and faecal streptococci (FS), isolated by standard membrane filtration methods from suburban and rural groundwater supplies, were carried out. Detectable non-O1 V. cholerae and P. aeruginosa was present in 81% and 88% of samples. The total occurrence of FC and FS during the period of study was 94%. The annual average densities of non-O1 V.cholerae were 4,903 MPN/100 mL. While, they were 206, 1,891 and 1,246 cfu/100 mL for P. aeruginosa, FC and FS respectively. Non-O1 V. cholerae strains had the highest percentage of hemolytic activities (α + β) (71.29%), whereas 20.71% of FS, 16.88% of FC and 9.13% of P. aeruginosa strains produced hemolysin. Bacterial strains isolated were found to be adhesive, with percentages of 63.09%, 65.09%, 84.06% and 87.98% respectively for non-O1 V. cholerae, FS, FC and P. aeruginosa. As for antibiotic resistance, the overall resistance of non-O1 V.cholerae strains was 79%, whereas it was 100% for the other bacteria. Non-O1 V. cholerae resistance was expressed towards sulfamethoxazole (75%), streptomycin (62%) and cephalothin (60%). Obtained results indicated correlation between bacteriological pollution and their public health implications.
Effect of loading rate and HRT on the removal of cephalosporin and their intermediates during the operation of a membrane bioreactor treating pharmaceutical wastewater
Authors: Sundararaman S. , Saravanane R.
Published: April 2010

The viability of treating high-concentration antibiotic wastewater by a membrane bioreactor (MBR) was studied using submerged flat sheet membrane. The major problems for these modules are concentration polarization and subsequent fouling. By using gas-liquid two-phase flow, these problems can be ameliorated. A case study has been identified and the current issues in one of the major pharmaceutical industry (manufacturing cephalosporin drugs) located in Chennai, India, has been discussed for the possible removal of anaerobically transformed intermediates of antibiotic pharmaceutical wastewater. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of organic loading rate and hydraulic retention time on the removal of cephalosporin derivative, viz., cephalexin (C16H17N3O4S·H2O) and the intermediates [7-amino-3-deacetoxycephalosporanic acid (7-ADCA) and acyl group (Phenyl acetic acid)] in the MBR with enhanced biodegradation using bioaugmentation technique. Based on the critical examination of results, the industry is looking for the alternatives of either direct disposal of 7-ADCA and phenyl acetic acid or for further degradation and disposal, which will essentially require additional cost and maintenance. The present regulatory standard implemented at a global level, (meaning the intermediates which are transformed during its course of travel within the industry and in the treatments plants, i.e., in the present study it is, 7-ADCA and phenyl acetic acid are not allowed to discharge on water bodies), does not envisage such disposal alternatives and hence the present study was aimed at the complete removal of intermediates (7-ADCA) and phenyl acetic acid prior to discharge.
Enhancing biological phosphorus removal with glycerol
Authors: Yuan Q. , Sparling R. , Lagasse P. , Lee Y. M. , Taniguchi D. , Oleszkiewicz J. A.
Published: April 2010

An enhanced biological phosphorus removal process (EBPR) was successfully operated in presence of acetate. When glycerol was substituted for acetate in the feed the EBPR process failed. Subsequently waste activated sludge (WAS) from the reactor was removed to an off-line fermenter. The same amount of glycerol was added to the WAS fermenter which led to significant volatile fatty acids (VFA) production. By supplying the system with the VFA-enriched supernatant of the fermentate, biological phosphorus removal was enhanced. It was concluded that, if glycerol was to be used as an external carbon source in EBPR, the effective approach was to ferment glycerol with waste activated sludge.
Upgrading of sewage treatment plant by sustainable and cost-effective separate treatment of industrial wastewater
Authors: Abma W. R. , Driessen W. , Haarhuis R. , van Loosdrecht M. C. M.
Published: April 2010

The Olburgen sewage treatment plant has been upgraded to improve the effluent quality by implementing a separate and dedicated treatment for industrial (potato) wastewater and reject water. The separate industrial treatment has been realized within a beneficial public-private partnership. The separate treatment of the concentrated flows of industrial wastewater and sludge treatment effluent proved to be more cost-efficient and area and energy efficient than a combined traditional treatment process. The industrial wastewater was first treated in a UASB reactor for biogas production. The UASB reactor effluent was combined with the reject water and treated in a struvite reactor (Phospaq process) followed by a one stage granular sludge nitritation/anammox process. For the first time both reactors where demonstrated on full scale and have been operated stable over a period of 3 years. The recovered struvite has been tested as a suitable substitute for commercial fertilizers. Prolonged exposure of granular anammox biomass to nitrite levels up to 30 mg/l did not result in inhibition of the anammox bacteria in this reactor configuration. The chosen option required a 17 times smaller reactorvolume (20,000 m3 less volume) and saves electric power by approximately 1.5 GWh per year.
The source of reducing power in the anaerobic metabolism of polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAOs) – a mini-review
Authors: Zhou Yan , Pijuan Maite , Oehmen Adrian , Yuan Zhiguo
Published: April 2010

Glycolysis has been generally accepted to be the source of reducing power used for the synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) in the anaerobic metabolism of polyphosphate accumulating organisms (PAOs). However, the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) has also been suggested to contribute to the generation of reducing equivalents, creating some controversy in this research field over the last two decades. Various research approaches have been applied in order to clarify this issue, including the analysis of intracellular compounds, labelled carbon substrates and gene expression. However, the conclusions of these studies seem not to be consolidated. The extent of TCA cycle involvement could be related to the experimental methods employed, the community structure of the cultures used, and also the operational conditions employed. This mini-review analyses the historical findings related to the source of reducing power in PAOs, and highlights the different approaches used in the previous studies. Key factors influencing the generation of reducing power through different metabolic pathways are discussed, and further research directions are also proposed.
Genetic Modification of MEOR Bacterium Bacillus licheniformis H Strain by Low Energy Ion Beam Irradiation
Authors: Xiangsheng Zhang , Miao Li , Tingsheng Xiang
Published: April 2010

The microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) related microorganism, identified as Bacillus licheniformis by
physiological and biochemical analyses and 16S rDNA sequence analyses, was irradiated with 15keV N+ at the dose of
0~4×1015ions/cm2. The “saddle model” survival curve showed that the turning point is the dose of 2.5×1015ions/cm2, with
the survival rate of 23.3% and the positive mutation rate of 36.7%. The single clone fermentation experiments show that
with the rising of dose treated, the surface tension of the fermentation broth of each group had the tendency to decrease,
while the group treated at the dose of 2.5×1015ions/cm2 had the lowest average surface tension. Ultimately five mutants
were screened from the colonies and two trains, M314 and M325 with a stable expression after the evaluation of five generations
were screened out and ready for next analysis. TLC and FT-IR of fermentation broth components showed that the
effective component was cyclic lipopeptide. These research results laid a basis for further study in low energy ion beam
induced mutation breeding of petroleum microbes.
Correcting for Circumsolar and Near-Horizon Errors in Sky Cover Retrievals from Sky Images
Authors: Long C.N.
Published: April 2010

Fractional sky cover amounts retrieved from sky imagery are overestimated significantly at times due to occurrences of “whitening” near the sun, and near the horizon for low sun, in the images. This phenomenon occurs due to forward scattering of visible light by aerosols and haze, and the intensity range limitations of the detectors of the cameras used to record the sky images. Our results suggest that when the problem occurs, the magnitude of the overestimate is typically on the order of about 10% to 20% fractional sky cover. To help alleviate this problem, a statistical analysis of the time series of the areas in the image near the sun position and along the horizon centered on the solar azimuth angle has been developed. This statistical analysis requires that images be captured frequently, at least once per minute. For times when the overestimation is detected as occurring, a correction is applied to the retrieved sky cover amounts. When the sky cover amount correction is applied, analysis indicates that the result better matches the actual sky conditions present, as
noted by visual inspection of the sky images in question. In addition, frequency-of-occurrence histogram comparisons show that the adjusted results improve the agreement with other methodologies and expectations. Thus, the methodology presented here helps produce more accurate fractional sky cover retrievals.
Antiproteases as Therapeutics to Target Inflammation in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Quinn Derek J , Weldon Sinéad , Taggart Clifford C
Published: April 2010

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal inherited disease of Caucasians, affecting about 1 in 3000 births. Patients with CF have a recessive mutation in the gene encoding the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). CFTR is expressed in the epithelium of many organs throughout the exocrine system, however, inflammation and damage of the airways as a result of persistent progressive endobronchial infection is a central feature of CF. The inflammatory response to infection brings about a sustained recruitment of neutrophils to the site of infection. These neutrophils release various pro-inflammatory compounds including proteases, which when expressed at aberrant levels can overcome the endogenous antiprotease defence mechanisms of the lung. Unregulated, these proteases can exacerbate inflammation and result in the degradation of structural proteins and tissue damage leading to bronchiectasis and loss of respiratory function. Other host-derived and bacterial proteases may also contribute to the inflammation and lung destruction observed in the CF lung. Antiprotease strategies to dampen the excessive inflammatory response and concomitant damage to the airways remains an attractive therapeutic option for CF patients.
Biological Roles of Peptidases in Trypanosomatids
Authors: Beatriz Vermelho Alane , Helena Branquinha Marta , M. D’Ávila-Levy Claudia , Souza dos Santos André Luis , de Souza Dias Edilma Paraguai , Nogueira de Melo Ana Cristina
Published: April 2010

In this review, we report the recent developments in the characterization of peptidases and their possible biological
functions in the Trypanosomatidae family. The focus will be on peptidases from Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania
spp., African trypanosomes and plant and insect trypanosomatids. There are numerous events in parasite development
where the involvement of peptidases has been established, and they will be approached in the present review. Also in this
review we will discuss the central roles have been proposed for peptidases in diverse processes such as virulence, host cell
interaction and invasion, catabolism of host proteins, differentiation, cell cycle progression and both stimulation and evasion
of host immune responses.
“We Can't Give Up. It's Too Important.” Health and Safety Stories from Canadian and U.S. Schools
Authors: Wigmore Dorothy
Published: April 2010

Schools are supposed to be places where children learn and thrive; not where they, teachers, and other staff get sick. The hazards are many but recognition of those hazards is hard to come by in schools in Canada and the United States. The result can be an uphill fight for school-based organizations and unions. Representatives of four such groups, two each from Canada and the United States, discuss the hazards and their effects. They also have many—often unrecognized—successes and related lessons to share. These include taking comprehensive approaches, looking for broad sweeps and entrees, using building sciences and strategies of solid information, acting with respect and with persistence, including students and parents, going for green cleaners, and using participatory methods. The representatives build on these to discuss what else needs to be done. The ideas are underpinned by the creativity, dedication, and persistence evident in their work to date.
Cascade Control Scheme for Tubular Reactors with Multiple Temperature Measurements
Authors: Hernandez-Martinez Eliseo , Puebla Hector , Alvarez-Ramirez Jose
Published: April 2010

In this work, we introduce a new structure for cascade control scheme based on a weighted average temperature of three-temperature measurement distributed along the axial position of the tubular reactor. The control configuration exploits the information provided by two additional temperature sensors located close to the feed and the output positions of the tubular reactor. The configuration with the averaged temperature improves the behavior of the classical cascade control scheme by enhancing the disturbance rejection. Numerical simulations of two axial dispersion models of tubular reactors are used to illustrate and compare the control performance.
Permit Markets, Seller Cartels and the Impact of Strategic Buyers
Authors: Godal Odd , Meland Frode
Published: April 2010

The literature on emissions trading and strategic behavior under the Kyoto Protocol typically claims that a sellers' cartel featuring countries of the former Soviet Union can be quite profitable for its members. Using a Cournot-type quota exchange model, we show that this conclusion is sensitive to the assumption that large permit buyers, like the EU and Japan, are supposed to behave as price takers. Our result is driven by the same mechanisms as those found in Salant, Switzer and Reynolds (1983). We also discuss alternative models of permit exchange.
Polymorphism of β-lacto globulin gene in Barki and Damascus and their cross bred goats in relation to milk yield
Authors: El-Hanafy A.A. , El-Saadani M.A. , Eissa M. , Maharem G.M. , Khalifa Z.A.
Published: April 2010

?-LG gene polymorphism at the DNA level has been analyzed by PCR-RFLP and reported two novel genetic variants of the ?-LG gene in Indian goats. However, no study has been reported in Barki Egyptian local goat breed, Damascus and their crossbred goats regarding ?-LG polymorphism at DNA level. The association of ?-LG polymorphism with milk yield has been reported in cows, sheep and Indian goats. However, this relation has not clarified yet in local or foreign goat breeds raised in Egypt. This study aimed to fingerprint ?-LG gene in the Barki, Damascus and their crossbred goats in an attempt to have clear image about genotypes of ?-LG gene in these breeds in relation to their milk yield. A total of 120 adult female does belonging to these three different genetic groups were analyzed by the PCR-RFLP method. The goats are raised by farmers in North West coast (Borg EL-Arab, Alexandria, Egypt) in which goats are living in natural habitats. The amplified product was observed as 426 bp and the restriction digestion with SacII revealed three genotypes, namely AA, AB and BB at the ?-LG locus. The frequencies of AA, AB and BB genotypes were 0.1, 0.8, 0.1; 0.85, 0.1, 0.05; 0.41, 0.51, 0.08 in the Barki and Damascus and their crossbred goats, respectively. The frequency of (AA)genotype was higher in Damascus breed than Barki and Damascus x Barki crossbred and according to reference milk production was associated with significantly higher milk production in this goat breed as compared by the two other goat breeds.
Quality traits of carcass sides and meat of Moravka and Mangalitsa pig breeds
Authors: Petrovic M. , Radovic C. , Parunovic N. , Mijatovic M. , Radojkovic D. , Aleksic S. , Stanisic N. , Popovac M.
Published: April 2010

Objective of this paper was to evaluate phenotypic variability of carcass side traits and quality of meat of fatteners (male castrated heads) of Moravka breed (M) and Mangalitsa (swallow-belly Mangalitsa - LM). The quantity and content of meat were determined based on dissection of left carcass sides (Walstra and Merkus, 1996). Also, nutritive properties of musculus longissimus dorsi (m.l.d.) were established. Obtained data were processed using GLM procedure of the program package SAS 9.1.3 (SAS Inst.Inc., 2002-2003). Results of the study show that Moravka fatteners had longer carcass sides (+6.82 and + 5.00 cm) compared to Mangalitsa breed, corrected to average body weight at slaughtering. Fatteners of M breed had in average higher total mass of back-loin part (+0.685, P<0.05) and average quantity of muscles in the same part of carcass side (+0.631 kg, P<0.01), compared to fatteners of LM breed. Also, they had higher quantity of muscle in belly-rib part (+0.237 kg, P<0.05) compared to LM. Share of muscle tissue in back-loin and belly-rib carcass side parts corrected for WCC, was higher in M carcass sides than in LM (P<0.01). Conversely, muscle tissue content in shoulders of Mangalitsa was higher (+4.8% ; P<0.05) than in Moravka. Share of muscle tissue in carcass sides of M pigs was by 4.3% higher compared to LM carcass sides. In m.l.d. of Moravka water content was higher (+6.1%, P<0.01), content of total lipids (-6.5%, P<0.05) and cholesterol (-19.68 mg/100 g, P<0.001) was lower than in Mangalitsa.
Modelling the benchmark spot curve for the Serbian
Authors: Drenovak Mikica , Urosevic Branko
Published: April 2010

The objective of this paper is to estimate Serbian benchmark spot curves using the Svensson parametric model. The main challenges that we tackle are: sparse data, different currency denominations of short and longer term maturities, and infrequent transactions in the short-term market segment vs daily traded medium and long-term market segment. We find that the model is flexible enough to account for most of the data variability. The model parameters are interpreted in economic terms.
Effects of air-lift reactor dimensions on its hydrodinamic characteristics
Authors: Milivojevic Milan , Andrejic Danijela , Bugarski Branko
Published: April 2010

In this study the hydrodynamic characteristics of the external loop airlift bioreactors were investigated. The influence of reactor height and solid particles concentration on the mean liquid circulation velocity was examined. Also, the possibility of theoretical prediction of this liquid circulation velocity was assessed. The correlation originally proposed by Glennon et al. (Chem. Eng. Commun. 121 (1993) 183-192) for two phase system liquid velocity prediction was extended and corrected for application to three phase systems. The accuracy of this new correlation was tested on our experimental data. The corrected correlation shows higher accuracy than the originally proposed one. In addition, the influence of reactor geometry and solid loading on reactor working performances was established.
Three dimensional mathematical model of tooth for finite element analysis
Authors: Puskar Tatjana , Vasiljevic Darko , Markovic Dubravka , Jevremovic Danimir , Pantelic Dejan , Savic-Sevic Svetlana , Muric Branka
Published: April 2010

Introduction. The mathematical model of the abutment tooth is the starting point of the finite element analysis of stress and deformation of dental structures. The simplest and easiest way is to form a model according to the literature data of dimensions and morphological characteristics of teeth. Our method is based on forming 3D models using standard geometrical forms (objects) in programmes for solid modeling. Objective. Forming the mathematical model of abutment of the second upper premolar for finite element analysis of stress and deformation of dental structures. Methods. The abutment tooth has a form of a complex geometric object. It is suitable for modeling in programs for solid modeling SolidWorks. After analyzing the literature data about the morphological characteristics of teeth, we started the modeling dividing the tooth (complex geometric body) into simple geometric bodies (cylinder, cone, pyramid,...). Connecting simple geometric bodies together or substricting bodies from the basic body, we formed complex geometric body, tooth. The model is then transferred into Abaqus, a computational programme for finite element analysis. Transferring the data was done by standard file format for transferring 3D models ACIS SAT. Results. Using the programme for solid modeling SolidWorks, we developed three models of abutment of the second maxillary premolar: the model of the intact abutment, the model of the endodontically treated tooth with two remaining cavity walls and the model of the endodontically treated tooth with two remaining walls and inserted post. Conclusion Mathematical models of the abutment made according to the literature data are very similar with the real abutment and the simplifications are minimal. These models enable calculations of stress and deformation of the dental structures. The finite element analysis provides useful information in understanding biomechanical problems and gives guidance for clinical research.
Cardiac autonomic dysfunction in patients with systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and sudden death risk
Authors: Milovanovic Branislav , Stojanovic Ljudmila , Milicevic Nebojsa , Vasic Karin , Bjelakovic Bojko , Krotin Mirjana
Published: April 2010

Introduction. The manifestations of autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction in autoimmune diseases have been the subject of many studies. However, the published results pertaining to such research are controversial. Sudden cardiac death due to fatal arrhythmias is frequent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objective. To analyze risk predictors of sudden cardiac death related to the degree of autonomic dysfunction. Methods. We performed cardiovascular ANS assessment in 90 patients in this case-controlled study, including 52 (6 male, 46 female) patients with SLE, 38 (6 male, 32 female) with RA and 41 (23 male, 17 female) healthy subjects. The methodology included a comprehensive ECG analysis (with Schiller software AT-10) of QTc interval, late potentials, short-term heart rate variability (HRV) and nonlinear HRV (Poincare plot) analysis; 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring with ECG QTc interval analysis, HRV analysis; 24-hour blood pressure monitoring with systolic and diastolic blood pressure variability; cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests (according to Ewing). Vagal dysfunction was established by performing 3 tests: Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing test and heart rate response to standing test. Dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system was examined by applying 2 tests: blood pressure response to standing and handgrip test. Results. In all cardiovascular reflex tests, the frequencies of abnormal results were significantly higher among the patients than among the healthy subjects. Severe autonomic dysfunction was more common in RA. QTc interval was more prolonged in patients with SLE. Both diseases were associated with depressed heart rate variability compared to controls, the reduction being greater in RA patients. In the patients with SLE, autonomic dysfunction is predominantly with higher sympathetic activity while in RA vagal predominance is evident. Conclusion. SLE and RA are associated with severe autonomic dysfunction and the presence of significant risk predictors related to the onset of sudden cardiac death.
Surgical angioplasty of the left main coronary artery
Authors: Vranes Mile , Velinovic Milos , Kocica Mladen , Mikic Aleksandar , Velimirovic Dusan , Djukic Petar
Published: April 2010

Introduction. The conventional treatment for isolated stenosis of the left main coronary artery is bypass surgery (myocardial revascularization). However, the process of atherosclerosis is not arrested by myocardial revascularization and it will lead to the occlusion of the left main coronary artery. Revascularization will establish retrograde perfusion for 50-70% of the myocardium of the left ventricle. Direct surgical angioplasty of the left main coronary artery enables normal physiological perfusion of the whole myocardium and better myocardial function. Objective. The aim of our study is to point out a new surgical approach of treating left main coronary artery stenosis. Methods. Between October 2002 and October 2003, direct surgical angioplasty of the main left coronary artery was performed on three patients with isolated stenosis of the left main coronary artery using the anterior approach and the pericardium as a patch. The procedure was performed under total endotracheal anaesthesia and standard cardiopulmonary circulation, moderate hypothermia, anterograde St. Tomas cardioplegia and local cooling. Patients were followed clinically, echocardiographically and by load-tests. Results. All three patients were without complications. In postoperative follow-up (54-68 months) neither angina pectoris nor electrocardiographically registered ischaemic changes were found. Load-tests performed every six months on all three patients were negative. Conclusion. Surgical angioplasty of isolated stenosis of the left main coronary artery is a preferred method for treating this type of coronary disease. Contraindications for this type of treatment are stenosis of the left main coronary artery with bifurcation and advanced calcification of the left main coronary artery.
The value of neuroendocrine markers for response to therapy and survival in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Petrovic Marina , Ilic Nevenka , Baskic Dejan
Published: April 2010

Introduction. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 70-80% of all lung cancers. In comparison with small cell lung cancer, NSCLC has relatively low therapy response. Discovery of neuroendocrine markers within the NSCLC group (10-30%) has initiated the issue of their importance in the therapy and prognosis. Objective. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of neuroendocrine differentiation on treatment response and survival in patients with advanced NSCLC. Methods. A clinical trial included 236 patients (73.7% males), with diagnosis of NSCLC, determined by histological verification. These patients were treated by combined chemo- and X-ray therapy at stage III (without pleural effusion) or chemotherapy only at stage III (with pleural effusion) and stage IV of NSCLC. When the progression had been noted at the stage III (without pleural effusion), the treatment was continued with X-ray therapy. Neuron-specific enolase (NSE), chromogranin A (ChrA) as well as synapthophysin (SYN) expression in tissue examples was determined by immunohistochemical analysis with monoclonal mouse anti human bodies (DAKO Comp, Denmark). The treatment was conducted during 4 to 6 chemotherapeutic cycles. The efficacy was assessed after the therapy regimen; median survival time was assessed after the randomization. Results. NSE, ChrA and SYN expression were noted in 56 (23.7%), 33 (13.9%) and 39 (16.5%) patients, respectively. Better therapeutic response was significantly higher in patients with expression of NSE, ChrA and SYN (p<0.05). There was significant correlation between therapy response and the percentage of positive tumour cells with neuroendocrine differentiation (p<0.05). The one-year and two-year follow-up survival period in patients with neuroendocrine expression was 64% (without expression 28%; p<0.001) and 30% (p=0.000). Conclusion. Tissue expression of neuroendocrine markers influences greatly a therapeutic response in patients with advanced stage of NSCLC. Better therapeutic response was recorded in patients with positive expression of neuroendocrine markers and higher percentage of positive tumour cells. Median survival time is higher in patients in III or IV stage of NSCLC, when neuroendocrine markers are expressed.
Aminoglycoside trough levels in neonates
Authors: Pejovic Biljana , Rankovic-Janevski Milica , Bozinovic-Prekajski Niveska
Published: April 2010

Introduction. Drug safety depends on trough levels. Objective. Objective of the study was to measure gentamicin and amikacin trough levels in neonates and to identify risk groups by gestational and postnatal age. Methods. Gentamicin and amikacin were applied according to the clinical practice guidelines. Trough levels (mg/l) were deter- mined using fluorescence polarization immunoassay methodology. Target trough levels were <2 mg/l for gentamicin, and <10 mg/l for amikacin. Patients were divided in 3 groups by gestational age: I ?32, II 33-36, and III ?37 gestational weeks and, by postnatal age, in 2 groups: ?7 and >7 days. Results. Out of 163 neonates, 111 were receiving gentamicin and 52 amikacin. Mean amikacin trough level was 7.8?4.8 mg/l and, in group I 10.5?4.9 mg/l, which was above the target range and significantly higher than in group II (LSD, p<0.05). In the amikacin group, 26 patients were 7 and less, and 26 more than 7 days old, without significant differences in trough levels between the groups. In the gentamicin group, 52.3% of neonates had trough values within the target range. Gentamicin trough level in group I was above the trough range, 3.7?1.8, 2.3?1.5 in group II and, 1.8?1.4 mg/l in group III. The difference in trough levels among the groups was highly significant (F=9.015, p<0.001, ?2=17. 576, p<0.001). Further analysis revealed that differences between groups I and II (LSD, p=0.002) and between I and III (LSD, p=0.000) were highly significant. Conclusion. Obtained gentamicin and amikacin trough levels are high. Inverse correlation has been confirmed between trough level and gestational age, with highly significant difference, and the risk group has been identified. There is obviously a need to change the dosing regimen in terms of those with extended intervals, particularly for neonates of the lowest gestational age, along with pharmacokinetic measurements.
Development and evaluation of the nurse quality of communication with patient questionnaire
Authors: Vukovic Mira , Gvozdenovic Branislav , Stamatovic-Gajic Branka , Ilic Miodrag , Gajic Tomislav
Published: April 2010

Introduction. Nurse/patient relationship as a complex interrelation or as an interaction of the factor patient and factor nurse has been a subject of a number of studies during the past ten years. Nurse/patient communication is a special entity, usually observed within a framework of the wider nurse/ patient relationship. In that regard, we wanted to develop a standardized questionnaire that could reliably measure the quality of communication between nurse and patient, and be used by nurses. Objectives. The main goal of this study was to develop and evaluate construct validity of the Nurse Quality of Communication with Patient Questionnaire (NQCPQ), as well as to evaluate its reliability. The goal was also to establish a measure of inter-raters reliability, using two repeated measurements of results by items and scores of the NQCPQ, on the same observed units by two assessors. Methods. The starting NQCPQ that consists of 25 items, was filled in by two groups of nurses. Each nurse was questioned during morning and afternoon shifts, in order to evaluate their communication with hospitalized patients, using marks from 1 to 6. To evaluate construct validity, we used the analysis of main components, while reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient and Cronbach-alpha coefficient. To evaluate interraters reliability, we used Pearson correlation coefficient. Results. Using a group of 118 patients, we explained 86% of the unknown, regarding the investigated phenomenon (communication nurse/patient), using one component by which we separated 6 items of the questionnaire. Inter-item correlation (?) in this component was 0.96. Pearson correlation coefficient was highly significant, value 0.7 by item, and correlation coefficient for scores at repeated measurements was 0.84. Conclusion. NQCPQ is 6-item instrument with high construct validity. It can be used to measure quality of nurse/patient communication in a simple, fast and reliable way. It could contribute to more adequate research and defining of this problem, and as such could be used in studies of interaction of psychometric, clinical, biochemical, socio-cultural, demographic and other parameters as well.