bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary platelet function testing
Authors: Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Lippi Giuseppe , Franchini Massimo
Published: February 2010

Defects in primary hemostasis typically lead to a bleeding diathesis and include several disorders, such as von Willebrand disease and various platelet function defects that may arise because of failure of membrane receptors, deficiencies in internal storage organelles, and/or signal transduction problems. The laboratory identification of a primary hemostasis defect including platelet function defects now involves a multi-step process. These processes begin with a full blood count to assess platelet count and size, progressing, if necessary, to platelet aggregation studies, and leading to further specific testing including flow cytometry, electron micro-scopy and/or genetic testing. This review outlines the sequential process of platelet function investigations, and discusses each of the essential components in some detail.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:579–98.
Intermittent high glucose exacerbates the aberrant production of adiponectin and resistin through mitochondrial superoxide overproduction in adipocytes
Authors: Sun Jiazhong , Xu Yancheng , Deng Haohua , Sun Suxin , Dai Zhe , Sun Yanlei
Published: February 2010

Hypoadiponectinemia and hyperresistinemia may be important in mediating signals from adipocytes to insulin-sensitive tissue and vasculature. However, the mechanism that mediates the aberrant production of adipokines remains poorly understood. In this study, we have investigated the effect of intermittent high glucose on the expression of adiponectin and resistin, and the production of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and nitrotyrosine in the adipocytes, either in the presence or in the absence of Mn(III) tetrakis(4-benzoic acid) porphyrin chloride (MnTBAP) or thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTFA). 3T3-L1 adipocytes were incubated for 72 h in media containing different glucose concentrations: 5 mmol/l, 20 mmol/l, 5 mmol/l alternating with 20 mmol/l glucose, with or without MnTBAP and TTFA. We measured the expression of resistin and adiponectin. The production of nitrotyrosine and 8-OHdG as oxidative stress parameter was measured. Both constant and intermittent high glucose significantly suppressed the expression and secretion of adiponectin, and increased expression and secretion of resistin in mature adipocytes compared to normal glucose conditions. However, these effects were significantly greater under intermittent high glucose conditions compared to constant high glucose. The levels of nitrotyrosine and 8-OHdG were significantly elevated under both intermittent and constant high glucose conditions, the effect being greater under intermittent high glucose. In addition, the antioxidants MnTBAP or TTFA reversed the aberrant production of adiponectin and resistin, as well as overproduction of nitrotyrosine and 8-OHdG in adipocytes induced by constant or intermittent high glucose. Intermittent high glucose exacerbates the aberrant production of adiponectin and resistin through reactive oxygen species overproduction at the mitochondrial transport chain level in adipocytes, indicating that glycemic variability has important pathological effects on the secretion of adipokines.
Specificity and spatial dynamics of protein kinase A signaling organized by A-kinase-anchoring proteins
Authors: Pidoux Guillaume , Taskén Kjetil
Published: February 2010

Protein phosphorylation is the most common post-translational modification observed in cell signaling and is controlled by the balance between protein kinase and phosphatase activities. The cAMP–protein kinase A (PKA) pathway is one of the most studied and well-known signal pathways. To maintain a high level of specificity, the cAMP–PKA pathway is tightly regulated in space and time. A-kinase-anchoring proteins (AKAPs) target PKA to specific substrates and distinct subcellular compartments providing spatial and temporal specificity in the mediation of biological effects controlled by the cAMP–PKA pathway. AKAPs also serve as scaffolding proteins that assemble PKA together with signal terminators such as phosphoprotein phosphatases and cAMP-specific phosphodiesterases as well as components of other signaling pathways into multiprotein-signaling complexes.
Tooth Loss in 776 Treated Periodontal Patients
Authors: Martin John A. , Page Roy C. , Loeb Carl F. , Levi Paul A.
Published: February 2010

Background: The most common form of periodontitis is a variably progressive dynamic pathologic process that causes attachment loss, destroys the alveolar bone supporting a tooth, and terminates with tooth loss. We evaluated the loss of teeth of treated periodontal patients categorized by severity and risk.

Methods: Each of nine periodontists evaluated 100 consecutive periodontal maintenance patients. The disease severity and risk level were determined from data at the initial examination. The number of teeth lost was determined from data at the initial and maintenance visits.

Results: A stepwise regression analysis showed that disease (P = 0.0000478) and risk (P = 0.00129) scores predicted the mean tooth loss rate. The adjusted R2 statistic was 88.56%. The ordinal logistic regression model showed that only the disease score (P <0.0005) was significantly associated with the probability of patients losing a specific number of teeth.

Conclusions: Categorizing a patient by severity may be beneficial in the management of the periodontal patient. The disease score can be used to establish a criterion and target for care. For example, treatment can result in nearly no lost teeth when the severity is low, and this benefit is lost when the severity is high. The disease score provides an objective means to quickly determine severity. An increase in the disease score provides evidence that a new treatment plan is needed. Therefore, the effect of the routine use of the disease score could result in fewer patients with severe disease and reduce the number of teeth lost.
Differential Production of Macrophage Inflammatory Protein‐1α, Stromal‐Derived Factor‐1, and IL‐6 by Human Cultured Periodontal Ligament and Gingival Fibroblasts Challenged With Lipopolysaccharide From P. gingivalis
Authors: Morandini Ana Carolina F. , Sipert Carla Renata , Gasparoto Thaís Helena , Greghi Sebastião Luiz A. , Passanezi Euloir , Rezende Maria Lucia R. , Sant'ana Adriana P. , Campanelli Ana Paula , Garlet Gustavo P. , Santos Carlos F.
Published: February 2010

Background: Fibroblasts are considered important cells in periodontitis. When challenged by different agents, they respond through the release of cytokines that participate in the inflammatory process. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the expression and production of macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)‐1α, stromal‐derived factor (SDF)‐1, and interleukin (IL)‐6 by human cultured periodontal ligament and gingival fibroblasts challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Methods: Fibroblasts were cultured from biopsies of gingival tissue and periodontal ligament of the same donors and used on the fourth passage. After confluence in 24‐well plates, the culture medium alone (control) or with 0.1 to 10 μg/ml of LPS from P. gingivalis was added to the wells, and after 1, 6, and 24 hours, the supernatant and the cells were collected and analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and real‐time polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

Results: MIP‐1α, SDF‐1, and IL‐6 protein production was significantly greater in gingival fibroblasts compared to periodontal ligament fibroblasts. IL‐6 was upregulated in a time‐dependent manner, mainly in gingival fibroblasts (P <0.05), which secreted more MIP‐1α in the lowest concentration of LPS used (0.1 μg/ml). In contrast, a basal production of SDF‐1 that was inhibited with the increase of LPS concentration was detected, especially after 24 hours (P <0.05).

Conclusion: The distinct ability of the gingival and periodontal ligament fibroblasts to secrete MIP‐1α, SDF‐1, and IL‐6 emphasizes that these cells may differently contribute to the balance of cytokines in the LPS‐challenged periodontium.
Chemokine Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein‐3 in Progressive Periodontal Lesions in Patients With Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Dezerega Andrea , Pozo Patricia , Hernández Marcela , Oyarzún Alejandro , Rivera Oriana , Dutzan Nicolás , Gutiérrez‐Fernández Ana , Overall Christopher M. , Garrido Mauricio , Alcota Marcela , Ortiz Emilio , Gamonal Jorge
Published: February 2010

Background: Chemokines are central in the activation and direction of leukocyte subsets to target tissues. However, the monocyte chemoattractant protein‐3 (MCP‐3) has not been associated with chronic periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis is an infection showing episodic supporting tissue destruction. The aim of this study is to determine the levels and expression of MCP‐3 in periodontal sites characterized by active periodontal connective tissue destruction.

Methods: The study population consisted of 15 patients with a progression of periodontitis (15 of 56 patients), 18 patients with chronic periodontitis, and 10 healthy subjects without periodontal disease. As determined by the tolerance method, the 15 patients with moderate to advanced chronic periodontitis showed a progression of periodontitis over a 4‐month period. Periodontitis was characterized by at least six sites with a probing depth ≥5 mm, clinical attachment level ≥3 mm, and radiographic bone loss. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected using a paper strip. The total protein concentration was determined. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine the total amount of MCP‐3, and an immunoWestern blot was conducted to assess molecular MCP‐3 forms. To determine the MCP‐3 expression by immunohistochemistry, gingival biopsies were obtained from patients with chronic periodontitis and healthy subjects during third‐molar extraction surgery. Statistical analyses were performed using statistical software. Data were expressed as subject means ± SD, using the χ2 and Student t tests.

Results: The total amount and concentration of chemokine MCP‐3 were significantly higher in patients with chronic periodontitis than in healthy subjects (8.25 pg versus 0.53 pg, P = 0.006 and 2.95 pg/μl versus 0.45 pg/μl, P = 0.04, respectively). Active sites showed a significantly higher total amount and concentration of MCP‐3 than inactive sites (11.12 versus 2.88 pg, P value = 0.005 and 3.95 versus 1.02, P value = 0.005, respectively). Western blot and immunohistochemical staining confirmed the presence of MCP‐3 in periodontal disease, with observable differences between patients with chronic periodontitis and healthy subjects.

Conclusions: MCP‐3 was highly expressed in patients with chronic periodontitis, particularly in those with progressive periodontal lesions. MCP‐3 could be involved in the recruitment of inflammatory cells toward periodontal tissues during the progression of the disease.
Distance Between External Cortical Bone and Mandibular Canal for Harvesting Ramus Graft: A Human Cadaver Study
Authors: Jack‐Min Leong Daylene , Li Jingjing , Moreno Ildefonso , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: February 2010

Background: The aims of this study are to determine the distance of the external surface of the buccal cortical plate to the inferior alveolar canal in the mandibular molar region and to propose a safe thickness for harvesting a mandibular ramus block graft.

Methods: Thirty‐four cadavers consisting of 26 dentate jaws and eight jaws in the edentulous molar region were used in this study. All mandibular ramus grafts were harvested by one investigator with the grafts extending from the external oblique ridge (EOR) and 15 mm inferiorly in the apico‐coronal direction and extending from the mid‐buccal aspect of the first molar to the mid‐buccal aspect of the third molar in the mesio‐distal direction. Measurements were made of the cortical bone thickness of the harvested ramus graft and from the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) to the EOR, the CEJ to the mandibular border, and the CEJ to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN).

Results: The average buccal cortical plate thickness in dentate mandibles was 2.76 ± 0.13 mm, whereas in edentulous posterior mandibles it was 2.52 ± 0.32 mm. The IANs were exposed in all jaws but were intact.

Conclusion: The safe thickness to harvest ramus grafts was determined to be 2.5 to 3.0 mm.
Evaluation of Gingival Crevicular Fluid Adrenomedullin and Human Neutrophil Peptide 1–3 Levels of Patients With Different Periodontal Diseases
Authors: Türkoğlu Oya , Emingil Gülnur , Kütükçüler Necil , Atilla Gül
Published: February 2010

Background: Antimicrobial peptides participating in the innate host response are important contributors for maintaining the balance between health and disease. The aim of the present study is to investigate the levels of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) adrenomedullin and human neutrophil peptides 1 through 3 (HNP1–3) in patients with different periodontal diseases.

Methods: A total of 77 subjects, including 20 patients with chronic periodontitis, 18 patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis, 20 patients with gingivitis, and 19 healthy subjects, were included in the present study. The probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index, and papilla bleeding index were assessed in all study subjects. GCF samples were analyzed for evaluating adrenomedullin and HNP1–3 levels by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The present study demonstrated that the periodontitis groups had a significantly higher total amount of GCF adrenomedullin compared to the gingivitis and healthy control groups after adjusting for age and gender (P <0.05). Additionally, GCF adrenomedullin levels were positively correlated with clinical periodontal parameters of sampling sites (P <0.05). The total amount of GCF HNP1–3 was not different among the study groups, and there was no correlation between the total amount of GCF HNP1–3 and clinical periodontal parameters (P >0.05).

Conclusions: Our results suggest a defensive role for adrenomedullin during the host response in periodontal disease. Additionally, the lack of the HNP1–3 antimicrobial peptide might point to the deficiency of one of the protective mechanisms for periodontal tissues.
Sorption and desorption of phosphorus by shale: batch and column studies
Authors: Cyrus Johnsely S. , Reddy G. B.
Published: February 2010

Constructed wetland systems have gained attention as attractive solutions for wastewater treatment. Wetlands are not efficient to treat wastewater with high concentrations of phosphorus (P). In order to remove high soluble P loads by wetland, sorbent beds can be added prior to the discharge of wastewater into wetlands. Sorption by sorbent materials is identified as a method for trapping excess P in wastewaters. In the present investigation, shale has been identified as a sorbent material for removal of phosphate (PO4-P) due to the cost effectiveness, stability and possibility of regeneration. The study focuses on the removal of PO4-P from wastewater using shale and the feasibility of using the P-sorbed material as slow-release fertilizer. Phosphorus sorption experiments were conducted by using shale (2 mm and 2–4.7 mm). Results indicate that Shale I (particle size = 2 mm) showed the highest sorption of PO4-P (500 ± 44 mg kg−1). Breakthrough point was reached within 10 h in columns with flow rates of 2 and 3 ml min−1. Lower flow rate of 1 ml min−1 showed an average residence time of about 2 h while columns with a higher flow rate of 3 ml min−1 showed a residence time of about 40 minutes. Variation in flow rate did not influence the desorption process. Since very low concentrations of PO4-P are released, Shale saturated with PO4-P may be used as a slow nutrient release source of P or as a soil amendment. The sorbent can also be regenerated by removing the sorbed PO4-P by using 0.1 N HCl.
A parsimonious dynamic model for river water quality assessment
Authors: Mannina Giorgio , Viviani Gaspare
Published: February 2010

Water quality modelling is of crucial importance for the assessment of physical, chemical, and biological changes in water bodies. Mathematical approaches to water modelling have become more prevalent over recent years. Different model types ranging from detailed physical models to simplified conceptual models are available. Actually, a possible middle ground between detailed and simplified models may be parsimonious models that represent the simplest approach that fits the application. The appropriate modelling approach depends on the research goal as well as on data available for correct model application. When there is inadequate data, it is mandatory to focus on a simple river water quality model rather than detailed ones. The study presents a parsimonious river water quality model to evaluate the propagation of pollutants in natural rivers. The model is made up of two sub-models: a quantity one and a quality one. The model employs a river schematisation that considers different stretches according to the geometric characteristics and to the gradient of the river bed. Each stretch is represented with a conceptual model of a series of linear channels and reservoirs. The channels determine the delay in the pollution wave and the reservoirs cause its dispersion. To assess the river water quality, the model employs four state variables: DO, BOD, NH4, and NO. The model was applied to the Savena River (Italy), which is the focus of a European-financed project in which quantity and quality data were gathered. A sensitivity analysis of the model output to the model input or parameters was done based on the Generalised Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation methodology. The results demonstrate the suitability of such a model as a tool for river water quality management.
Fate of nitrogen species in nitrate reduction by nanoscale zero valent iron and characterization of the reaction kinetics
Authors: Hwang Y. H. , Kim D. G. , Ahn Y. T. , Moon C. M. , Shin H. S.
Published: February 2010

This study investigates the fate of nitrogen species during nitrate reduction by nanoscale zero valent iron (NZVI) as well as the related kinetics. The NZVI used for the experiments was prepared by chemical reduction without a stabilizing agent. The pseudo first order kinetic constant of nitrate reduction at 30°C with an NZVI/nitrate ratio of 1.25:1, which were the reference conditions of this study, was 4.08 h−1 (R2 = 0.955). A nitrogen mass balance was established by quantitative analysis of aqueous-phase and gas-phase nitrogen species. The results confirm that the nitrate was converted to ammonium ion, that ammonia stripping subsequently occurred under a strong alkaline condition, and that the total amount of aqueous nitrogen was consequently reduced. The nitrate reduction rate also increased with a lower pH and a higher temperature when microscale ZVI was used. However, in contrast to the reaction by microscale ZVI, the nitrate reduction rate by NZVI was higher for an unbuffered condition, possibly due to the abundance of surface atoms and the smaller size.
Characterisation of pathogenic bacteria in a UASB-polishing pond system using molecular techniques
Authors: Godinho V. M. , Nascimento F. M. S. , Silva S. Q. , von Sperling M.
Published: February 2010

Molecular techniques have been commonly used to detect and quantify pathogenic bacteria in food, clinical and environmental samples, but in wastewater treatment plants few studies have been carried out. This work applied PCR with a specific set of primers to investigate pathogenic bacteria in a wastewater plant comprised of a UASB reactor followed by polishing ponds. In addition, in-situ hybridisation technique (FISH) was used to estimate the abundance of Escherichia coli in the system. According to the PCR results it was observed that Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica were not completely removed in the system, since they were detected either in the raw sewage or UASB and pond effluents. Shigella dysenteriae and Enterococcus spp. were detected in raw sewage and UASB, but not in the pond effluent. In contrast Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori were not detected in any samples. The quantification of E. coli using FISH revealed values in the range of 107 cells/100 mL for raw sewage and 106 cells/100 mL for pond effluent, slightly higher than values obtained by traditional techniques. Finally the results show the applicability of PCR method for monitoring pathogenic bacteria in wastewater systems; however, more samples need to be analysed in order to certify the applicability of FISH to estimate pathogenic bacteria in WWT effluents.
Progression of Diet-Induced Diabetes in C57BL6J Mice Involves Functional Dissociation of Ca2+ Channels From Secretory Vesicles
Authors: Collins Stephan C. , Hoppa Michael B. , Walker Jonathan N. , Amisten Stefan , Abdulkader Fernando , Bengtsson Martin , Fearnside Jane , Ramracheya Reshma , Toye Ayo A. , Zhang Quan , Clark Anne , Gauguier Dominique , Rorsman Patrik
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to elucidate the cellular mechanism underlying the suppression of glucose-induced insulin secretion in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 15 weeks.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

C57BL6J mice were fed a HFD or a normal diet (ND) for 3 or 15 weeks. Plasma insulin and glucose levels in vivo were assessed by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. Insulin secretion in vitro was studied using static incubations and a perfused pancreas preparation. Membrane currents, electrical activity, and exocytosis were examined by patch-clamp technique measurements. Intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured by microfluorimetry. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscope (TIRFM) was used for optical imaging of exocytosis and submembrane depolarization-evoked [Ca2+]i. The functional data were complemented by analyses of histology and gene transcription.

RESULTS

After 15 weeks, but not 3 weeks, mice on HFD exhibited hyperglycemia and hypoinsulinemia. Pancreatic islet content and β-cell area increased 2- and 1.5-fold, respectively. These changes correlated with a 20–50% reduction of glucose-induced insulin secretion (normalized to insulin content). The latter effect was not associated with impaired electrical activity or [Ca2+]i signaling. Single-cell capacitance and TIRFM measurements of exocytosis revealed a selective suppression (>70%) of exocytosis elicited by short (50 ms) depolarization, whereas the responses to longer depolarizations were (500 ms) less affected. The loss of rapid exocytosis correlated with dispersion of Ca2+ entry in HFD β-cells. No changes in gene transcription of key exocytotic protein were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

HFD results in reduced insulin secretion by causing the functional dissociation of voltage-gated Ca2+ entry from exocytosis. These observations suggest a novel explanation to the well-established link between obesity and diabetes.
Relationships Between Metabolic Syndrome and Other Baseline Factors and the Efficacy of Ezetimibe/Simvastatin and Atorvastatin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Goldberg Ronald B. , Guyton John R. , Mazzone Theodore , Weinstock Ruth S. , Polis Adam B. , Tipping Diane , Tomassini Joanne E. , Tershakovec Andrew M.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate relationships between baseline factors and treatment-associated efficacy changes in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Multivariable analyses of treatment response in 1,229 type 2 diabetic patients with hypercholesterolemia who received ezetimibe/simvastatin or atorvastatin in a randomized double-blind 6-week study.

RESULTS

Increasing age was related to improvements in all lipid assessments. Men had greater triglyceride and non-HDL cholesterol reductions than women, and black/Hispanic patients had less favorable lipid effects than other races/ethnicities. Increasing baseline LDL cholesterol was associated with improvements in most lipids; higher baseline non-HDL cholesterol with improved HDL cholesterol and triglycerides; higher baseline HDL cholesterol with greater non-HDL cholesterol and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) reductions; and higher baseline hs-CRP with smaller LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B reductions. Patients with high baseline non-HDL cholesterol or triglycerides less frequently attained LDL cholesterol targets. Obesity was inversely related to HDL cholesterol and hs-CRP changes, and higher baseline A1C to smaller apolipoprotein B reductions. Metabolic syndrome was not a significant predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment responses in type 2 diabetic patients were related to baseline factors, although treatment effects (ezetimibe/simvastatin being more effective than atorvastatin) remained consistent. The presence of predictive factors should be considered in planning lipid-altering therapy.
Moisture Status of the Skin of the Feet Assessed by the Visual Test Neuropad Correlates With Foot Ulceration in Diabetes
Authors: Tentolouris Nicholas , Voulgari Christina , Liatis Stavros , Kokkinos Alexander , Eleftheriadou Ioanna , Makrilakis Konstantinos , Marinou Kyriakoula , Katsilambros Nicholas
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between the moisture status of the skin of the feet with foot ulceration in subjects with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 379 subjects with diabetes were examined. Assessment of peripheral neuropathy was based on neuropathy symptom score, neuropathy disability score, vibration perception threshold, and the 10-g monofilament perception. The moisture status of the skin of the feet was assessed using the visual test Neuropad.

RESULTS

Patients with foot ulceration had more severe peripheral neuropathy and more often an abnormal Neuropad response. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the odds of foot ulceration increased with measures of neuropathy but increased also with an abnormal Neuropad response.

CONCLUSIONS

An abnormal Neuropad response correlates with foot ulceration in subjects with diabetes. This finding, if confirmed prospectively, suggests that the Neuropad test may be included in the screening tests for the prediction of foot ulceration.
Prevalence of Paramphistomum infection in cattle and sheep in Van Province, Turkey
Authors: Ozdal N. , Gul A. , Ilhan F. , Deger S.
Published: February 2010

This study was carried out in naturally infected cattle and sheep from May, 2006 to April 2007 in Van province, in the eastern of Turkey, to assess the prevalence of paramphistomosis. The rumen and reticulum of slaughtered cattle and sheep were collected monthly from abattoirs (Van Municipality of Slaughterhouse) to monitor the seasonal occurrence of paramphistomosis. 447 cattle and 948 sheep were examined, out of which 8.95 and 4.43 % were positive for Paramphistomum infection, with the mean intensity ± standard error of mean of 97.55 ± 12.50 and 89.17 ± 13.02, respectively. The highest infection in the cattle and sheep infected with Paramphistomum spp. was found during the autumn (September to November) (14.10 %, 8.33 %) and fallowed by the summer seasons (June to August) (9.02 %, 5.18 %).
Infection of terrestial snails with larvae of Elaphostrongylus cervi (Nematoda, Protostrongylidae) in Białowieża National Park
Authors: Kuligowska I. , Demiaszkiewicz A.
Published: February 2010

Species composition of intermediate hosts of Elaphostrongylus cervi — terrestrial snails, prevalence and intensity of their infection in natural invasions have been determined. The intermediate hosts of E. cervi are Succinea putris, Bradybena fruticum, Perforatella bidentata and Zonitoides nitidus. From June to August the percentage of snails S. putris infected with E. cervi larvae has been on constant level and in September and October decreased. Snails B. fruticum the highest prevalence of invasion showed on July and later it successively lowered. In the case of P. bidentata prevalence of E. cervi infection was the lowest in August, and than raised up to the highest value in October. For the first time the highest extensiveness of spontaneous infection has been found in P. bidentata. Till now as the most infected species of snail always has been noted S. putris. The highest intensity of infection — 242 larvae was found in B. fruticum, and little lower 73- 202 in S. putris. In two other species intensiveness ranged from 1 to 23 larvae. The most important role in spreading of E. cervi in Białowieża Forest fulfil S. putris and B. fruticum because of their high number in environment and P. bidens because of the highest intensiveness of infection.
Air transport liberalisation in the European Union and its impact on development of the civil aviation sector in Poland
Authors: Pisarek Renata
Published: February 2010

The objective of this paper is to present an overview of the process of air transport liberalisation within the European Community and its influence on development of the aviation market in Poland. The paper describes the stages of air transport liberalisation in the European Community and its implementation to the Polish market. The special focus is given to problems of existing effects of air transport liberalisation and perspectives of its development. The study primarily intends to examine market structure changes of the Polish civil aviation sector and air traffic dynamics over the years of Polish integration with the European Union, presenting the most up-to-date available statistics
Reform of Governance in Higher Education Sector as a factor enhancing international mobility of students - the case of Poland
Authors: Wysokińska Agnieszka
Published: February 2010

The aim of the paper is the presentation of main directions and programmes enhancing international mobility of students in Europe and outside Europe and some results of this programmes in the case of Poland. The paper examines also the main decisions of the European Commission related to the reform of the Higher Education Sector in the EU as one of the most important factors stimulating mobility in the tertiary education schools.
The Consequences of High School Exit Examinations for Low-Performing Urban Students: Evidence From Massachusetts
Authors: Papay John P. , Murnane Richard J. , Willett John B.
Published: February 2010

In specifying a minimum passing score on examinations that students must pass to obtain a high school diploma, states divide a continuous performance measure into dichotomous categories. Thus, students with scores near the cutoff either pass or fail despite having essentially equal skills. The authors evaluate the causal effects of barely passing or failing a high school exit examination on the probability of graduation using a regression discontinuity design. For most Massachusetts students, barely failing their first 10th grade mathematics or English language arts (ELA) examination does not affect their probability of graduating. However, low-income urban students who just fail the mathematics examination have an 8 percentage point lower graduation rate than observationally similar students who just pass. There is no analogous impact from just passing or failing the ELA exit examination. For these urban, low-income students, barely failing the mathematics test does not affect the likelihood of on-time grade promotion, but it does cause students to be 4 percentage points more likely to drop out of school in the year following the test. Low-income urban students are just as likely to retake the test as equally skilled suburban students, but they have less success on retest.
Low Cost Electrochemical Sensors for Silver, Chloride, Bromide and Iodide Ions
Authors: Pradhananga Raja Ram , Rajbhandari Nyachhyon Armila
Published: February 2010

Low cost all solid state pressed pellet Ag+, halides and sulphide sensitive electrodes based on silver sulphide were fabricated. The electrodes have been tested and results compare favorably with commercial electrodes. Pure Ag2S electrode with internal silver metal contact was found to follow Nernstian equation from 1 x 10-1 to 1 x 10-5 M of silver ion with slope equal to 59.8 mV per decade change in concentration of Ag+ - ion. Electrodes fabricated from equimolar mixture of Ag2S and Ag - halide was found to be sensitive to the respective halide and silver ions. Iodide ion selective electrode prepared from a equimolar mixture of Ag2S and AgI was found to be selective to iodide ion with negligible interference from bromide and chloride ions. The potentiometric selectivity coefficient Kpot I,Br, Kpot I,Cl were found to be 1.77x10-2 and 7.94x10-3 respectively. All these electrodes were found to be selective to Ag+ ion with negligible interference with Kpot Ag, Hg equal to 1 x 10-5 Hg++ ion with selectivity coefficient. Keywords: Ion selective electrodes; Potentiometric selectivity coefficient; Silver sulphide.   DOI: 10.3126/sw.v6i6.2631 Scientific World, Vol. 6, No. 6, July 2008 33-36
Seasonal Changes in Soil Respiration Of Degraded And Non-Degraded Sites in Oak and Pine Forests of Central Himalaya
Authors: Jina BS , Bohra CPS , Rawat YS , Bhatt MD
Published: February 2010

Present investigation deals with the seasonal changes in soil respiration of degraded and non-degraded oak and pine forests in Van Panchayat of Kumaun Himalaya. Soil temperature and soil moisture enhances soil respiration by increasing microbial activity and decomposition of organic matter. The rate of soil respiration was higher in non-degraded site of oak forest in Dhaili VP (63.9±1.6 to 363.6±5.3 mg CO2 m-2h-1), non-degraded site of pine forest (39.1±0.9 to 195.41.6 mg CO2 m-2h-1) in Guna VP, and lower in degraded pine forest in Toli VP (21.3±0.5 to 126.8±0.8 mg CO2 m-2h-1), degraded oak forest of Guna VP was (26.9±0.8 to 167.3±1.2 mg CO2 m-2h-1). Within non-degraded and degraded sites of both oak and pine forests soil respiration was positively correlated with soil temperature and soil moisture. Key words: Soil respiration; Degraded; Non-dedgraded; Van panchayat.   DOI: 10.3126/sw.v6i6.2641 Scientific World, Vol. 6, No. 6, July 2008 89-93
Results of excision of cerebral radionecrosis: experience in patients treated with radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wong Sui-To , Loo Ka-Tai , Yam Kwong-Yui , Hung Wai-Man , Fok Kam-Fuk , Yuen Shing-Chau , Fong Dawson
Published: February 2010

Object

In theory, the purpose of the treatment of cerebral radionecrosis (CRN), a nonneoplastic condition, is to minimize loss of brain function by preventing the progression and reversing some of the processes of CRN. In a practical sense, factors for achieving this purpose may include the following: removal of a CRN lesion that is causing mass effect, control of brain edema, prevention of recurrence of CRN lesions, minimization of adverse effects from treatments, and achievement of reasonably long and good-quality survivals. Based on these practical issues, the authors performed a retrospective study to evaluate the results of excision for the treatment of CRN.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the results of excision of CRN lesions in a group of patients with temporal lobe CRN due to radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Patients who had undergone surgery at the authors' institution between January 1998 and November 2008 were analyzed. Surgical results were evaluated by assessing postoperative resolution of brain edema, recurrence of temporal lobe CRN, surgery-related complications, and postoperative functional status and survival.

Results

Twenty-four patients were included (age range 39–69 years; in 23 patients nasopharyngeal carcinoma was in remission). All patients underwent craniotomy for excision of the contrast-enhancing region. The indications for operation were temporal lobe CRN lesions with a mass-occupying effect beyond the temporal lobe. There were 32 craniotomies in all (mean postoperative follow-up 40 months). It was found that brain edema resolved rapidly postoperatively. The recurrence and reoperation rates were 6.3 and 3.1%, respectively. There were no surgery-related deaths. The median survival was 72 months, and 67% of the patients had a Karnofsky Performance Scale score of ≥ 70% at the time of their last follow-up.

Conclusions

In a specific group of patients with CRN of the temporal lobe in whom the CRN lesions were causing a mass-occupying effect beyond the temporal lobe, excision of the contrast-enhancing region was safe and could achieve prompt resolution of brain edema and a low incidence of recurrence of CRN.
Selection of patients with idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus for shunt placement: a single-institution experience
Authors: Anile Carmelo , De Bonis Pasquale , Albanese Alessio , Di Chirico Alessandro , Mangiola Annunziato , Petrella Gianpaolo , Santini Pietro
Published: February 2010

Object

The ability to predict outcome after shunt placement in patients with idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) represents a challenge. To date, no single diagnostic tool or combination of tools has proved capable of reliably predicting whether the condition of a patient with suspected NPH will improve after a shunting procedure. In this paper, the authors report their experience with 120 patients with the goal of identifying CSF hydrodynamics criteria capable of selecting patients with idiopathic NPH. Specifically, they focused on the comparison between CSF-outflow resistance (R-out) and intracranial elastance (IE).

Methods

Between January 1977 and December 2005, 120 patients in whom idiopathic NPH had been diagnosed (on the basis of clinical findings and imaging) underwent CSF hydrodynamics evaluation based on an intraventricular infusion test. Ninety-six patients underwent CSF shunt placement: 32 between 1977 and 1989 (Group I) on the basis of purely clinical and radiological criteria; 44 between 1990 and 2002 (Group II) on the basis of the same criteria as Group I and because they had an IE slope > 0.25; and 20 between 2003 and 2005 (Group III) on the basis of the same criteria as Group II but with an IE slope ≥ 0.30. Outcomes were evaluated by means of both Stein-Langfitt and Larsson scores. Patients' conditions were considered improved when there was a stable decrease (at 6- and 12-month follow-up) of at least 1 point in the Stein-Langfitt score and 2 points in the Larsson score.

Results

Group I: while no statistically significant difference in mean R-out value between improved and unimproved cases was observed, a clear-cut IE slope value of 0.25 differentiated very sharply between unimproved and improved cases. Group II: R-out values in the 2 unimproved cases were 20 and 47 mm Hg/ml/min, respectively. The mean IE slope in the improved cases was 0.56 (range 0.30–1.4), while the IE slopes in the 2 unimproved cases were 0.26 and 0.27. Group III: the mean IE slope was 0.51 (range 0.31–0.7). The conditions of all patients improved after shunting. A significant reduction of the Evans ratio was observed in 34 (40.5%) of the 84 improved cases and in none of the unimproved cases.

Conclusions

Our strategy based on the analysis of CSF pulse pressure parameters seems to have a great accuracy in predicting surgical outcome in clinical practice.
Levofloxacin prophylaxis to prevent bacterial infection in chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in acute leukemia
Authors: Rahman M. Mizanur , Khan Mohiuddin Ahmed
Published: February 2010

Infection in chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (neutrophils <500/mm3) is the main cause of death during the treatment of acute leukemia. Antibiotic prophylaxis is a controversial issue to prevent or delay this infection. This study assessed the efficacy of prophylaxis with oral levofloxacin in chemotherapy-induced febrile neutropenic patients. Eighty patients of acute leukemia was randomly assigned to had levofoxacin (500 mg/daily) or placebo from the starting of chemotherapy. Out of 80 patients 53 developed neutropenia and fever. The number of patients with fever (78% vs. 68%), isolation of the pathogenic bacteria (30.43% vs. 16%) was higher and mean starting day of the fever (11.1 vs. 13.2) was shorter in the placebo group than the levofloxacin group. Levofloxacin reduced the bacterial infections and delays the onset of fever in chemotherapy-induced neutropenia especially in short duration (<7 days). Keywords: Chemotherapy; Leukemia; Levofloxacin; NeutropeniaOnline: 8 Feb 2010DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v35i3.4130 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 91-94
One-dimensional finite element discretization of crack propagation through parallel computation
Authors: Islam Md Rajibul , Alias Norma
Published: February 2010

In this study, a new approach of the application of finite element method is presented, to solve the initial stages of crack propagation problems which mean the deformation due to the stress and strain of a material. In early applications of the finite element method for the analysis of crack propagation, the crack-tip motion was modelled by discontinuous jumps. We have implemented one dimensional finite element discretization to solve crack propagation problem. The parallel algorithm with parallel computer system has been used in order to perform the computational analysis of finite element for this study. Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM) has been used as a message passing software with Parallel Computer System. The result of this study will be useful in the mathematics and engineering fields. In mathematics, the research will widen the application of finite elements in solving the engineering science problems. Keywords: Finite Element Method (FEM), Crack Propagation, Parallel computation, Parallel Virtual Machine (PVM). DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v5i1.4378 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.5(1) 2010 pp.19-28
Hydrophobic property of handmade jute paper treated by sizing material 'rosin'
Authors: Hossain HM Zakir , Uddin Md Kamal , Saifullah Khaled , Rashid MM , Mollah MM
Published: February 2010

To produce hydrophobic handmade paper internal material rosin along with external additive (MCC suspension), internal additive (wax emulsion) and reinforcement were used. Optimum result was obtained when rosin along with alum was used as internal additive during pulp preparation and MCC in the form of suspension was applied as external additive. The hydrophobicity was increased by 92.46% due to rosin-alum treatment and application of MCC suspension as external additive. It was also observed that application of wax along with rosin hampered/hindered the hydrophobicity. Keyword: Handmade, Jute, Paper, Hydrophobic, Sizing material DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v5i1.4381 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.5(1) 2010 pp.48-52
Speech recognition front-end for segmenting and clustering continuous Bangla speech
Authors: Rahman Md Mijanur , Khan Md Farukuzzaman , Moni Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2010

This research is concerned with the development of speech recognition front-end for segmenting and clustering continuous Bangla speech sentence to some predefined clusters. From the study of different previous research works it was observed that the front-end is an important part of any speech recognition system. In our work, the original speech sentences were recorded and stored as RIFF (.wav) file format. Then a segmentation approach was used to segment the continuous speech into uniquely identifiable and meaningful units. Among the different techniques, the word/sub-word segmentation is simple and produces very good results. This is why this technique was selected for speech segmentation to obtain improved performance. After segmentation, the segmented words were clustered into different clusters according to the number of syllables and the sizes of the segmented words. The test database contained 758 words/sub-words segmented from 120 sentences. Each sentence was recorded from six different speakers and saved as a different wave file. The developed system achieved the segmentation accuracy rate at about 95%. Keywords: Front-end, Phonemic and Word segmentation, Clustering, End Point Detection. DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v5i1.4384 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.5(1) 2010 pp.67-72
Metabolic Effects of Incremental Doses of Intraperitoneal Amino Acids on Automated Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: McCormick Brendan B. , Mujais Salim , Poirier Francine , Page Nicole , Lavoie Susan
Published: February 2010

Background

The use of amino acid (AA) dialysate to ameliorate protein-energy malnutrition has been limited by adverse metabolic effects.

Objective

We undertook this study to examine the acute metabolic effects of escalating doses of AAs delivered with lactate/bicarbonate dialysate on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD).

Patients and Methods

12 APD patients were treated with conventional lactate-buffered dialysate (week 1), followed by lactate/bicarbonate-buffered dialysate (week 2), then 2 – 2.5 L 1.1% AA solution were added (week 3), and then an additional 2 – 2.5 L 1.1% AA were added (week 4). The primary outcomes were change in serum bicarbonate and pH, change in protein catabolic rate (PCR), and change in normalized ultrafiltration (milliliters/gram of carbohydrate infused).

Results

Serum bicarbonate rose from week 1 to week 2 (28.9 ± 3.2 vs 26.9 ± 4.1 mmol/L, p = 0.03). Addition of one bag of AAs led to a decline in plasma bicarbonate (26.9 ± 2.1 vs 28.9 ± 3.2 mmol/L, p < 0.01), which was further magnified by the addition of the second bag of AAs (23.8 ± 2.7 vs 26.9 ± 2.1 mmol/L, p < 0.01). Serum bicarbonate fell significantly by week 4 compared to week 1 (23.8 ± 2.7 vs 26.9 ± 3.2 mmol/L, p < 0.01) although there was no significant change in venous pH or PCR when week 4 was compared to week 1. Normalized ultrafiltration was stable for the first 3 weeks but rose significantly in week 4 compared to week 1 (5.32 ± 2.30 vs 4.14 ± 1.58 mL/g, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Higher doses of AAs mixed with newer bicarbonate/lactate dialysate on APD result in a small decrease in serum bicarbonate but improved normalized ultrafiltration. This merits further study as both a nutritional supplement and a glucose-sparing strategy.