bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation sensitivity of Acinetobacter spp. and their radicidation for preservation of meat at low temperature
Authors: Saha Sahadev Chandra , Chopade Balu Anand
Published: August 2009

Acinetobacter spp. isolated from meat to gamma radiations. Seven species of Acinetobacter viz. A. lwoffii M1; A. baumannii M8; A. calcoaceticus M19; A. junii M20; A. johnsonnii M23; A. haemolyticus M27 and A. radioresistens M25 isolated from meat were exposed to gamma radiation at the dose level of 0.1 to 10 KGy. The D10 value of Acinetobacter was found highest 1.25 KGy in A. radioresistens M25, which was 4 to 8 times higher than other genospecies of Acinetobacter. Acinetobacter radioresistens M25 contains one plasmid of 45 Kb. The radicidation dose of 4 KGy gamma radiations was found to be sufficient to eliminate the natural contamination of meat and contamination by Acinetobacter. To eliminate radiation resistant Acinetobacter contamination a dose of 4 to 5 KGy was required. Development of the radicidation process for preservation of meat to eliminate Acinetobacter as contaminants at low temperature is one of the new and interesting phenomena. Attempts of finding the appropriate radicidation dose for preservation of meat at low temperature will open up new avenues for commercial preservation of meat.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.2490Online: 11 August 2009Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 33-40
Thyroid hormone profile in beta-thalassemia major children
Authors: Gathwala Geeta , Das Kunal , Agrawal Nitika
Published: August 2009

Keywords: Thalassemia, Thyroid hormone; ChildrenOnline: 26 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.2534Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 70-71
Cosmetic approach of atrial septal defect repair through right anterolateral thoracotomy
Authors: Adhikary Asit Baran , Kamal Sarwar , Saha Sanjoy Kumar , Hossain Aslam , Quader Sayed Abdul , Badruzzaman - , Chanda Prasanta Kumar
Published: August 2009

Keywords: Atrial septal defect; Cosmetic approach; ThoracotomyOnline: 27 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.2766Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 75-76
Circulating lipid peroxidation, plasma and erythrocyte antioxidant status in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Pasupathi Palanisamy , Deepa Mathiyalagan , Rani P. , Sankar R. Ramesh
Published: August 2009

The aim of the study was to investigate the levels of lipid peroxidation, and both plasma and erythrocyte antioxidant states in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The population consisted of 60 subjects divided into two groups, 30 subjects had evidence of rheumatoid arthritis and age and sex matched healthy subjects were studied as controls. The level of plasma and erythrocyte thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was markedly increased in both the rheumatoid arthritis patients when compared to control subjects. The activities of plasma and erythrocyte antioxidants were significantly decreased in rheumatoid arthritis. C reactive protein, rheumatoid factor and antistreptolysin-O were significantly higher in rheumatoid arthritis patients than in healthy subjects. In conclusion, on the basis of enhanced lipid peroxidation in rheumatoid arthritis patients with concomitant failure of both the plasma, and erythrocyte antioxidants defense mechanism. These results are consistent with the underlying hypothesis that there is an  imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and the antioxidant defense system in inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis disease.Keywords: Antioxidant; Lipid peroxidation; Rheumatoid arthritisOnline: 13 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.2798Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 57-62
Effect of enalapril and losartan on proteinuria in type 2 diabetic nephropathy patients
Authors: Hoque Rozina , Rahman Md. Sayedur , Iqbal Masud
Published: August 2009

A prospective, open label, parallel group and randomized study was conducted to see the effect of enalapril and losartan on proteinuria in type 2 diabetic nephropathy patients. 18 patients (proteinuria ³ 0.5 gm/day and serum creatinine ≤3 mg/dL) were selected and then randomly grouped to receive enalapril (5-40 mg/day, n=10) and losartan (25-200 mg/day, n=8) in increasing dose for 16 weeks. No statistically significant alteration in the urinary total protein, protein creatinine ratio, serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, serum potassium and blood pressure was observed in any group. After attaining maximum dose (40 mg and 200 mg respectively), enalapril group showed significant (p<0.04) reduction of protein creatinine ratio in comparison to losartan group. It may be concluded that 40 mg enalapril or 200 mg losartan are not sufficient to reduce proteinuria and blood pressure significantly in type 2 proteinuric diabetics with renal dysfunction although both drugs were well tolerated at high doses.Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; Enalapril; Losartan; Nephropathy; ProteinuriaOnline: 11 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.2885Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 44-48
Role of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation with indomethacin in suppression of disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Gupta Ashoke Bijoy Das , Hossain A.K.M. Mosharrof , Islam Md. Hilalul , Dey Sudhangshu Ranjan , Khan Md. Abdul Latif
Published: August 2009

A study was conducted to see the diseases activity suppression role of omega-3 fatty acids with indomethacin in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. One group received indomethacin (75 mg) only daily while another group received indomethacin (75 mg) along with omega-3 fatty acids (3 g) daily for 12 weeks. The main outcome measures were DAS 2-28 joints score, number of swollen joints, number of tender joints, duration of morning stiffness, grip strength, pain VAS, patients global VAS, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. In terms of outcome both the groups experienced a modest improvement in disease activity after 12 weeks of treatment. However, compared to indomethacin–treated group, omega-3 plus indomethacin–treated group achieved a better improvement in terms of reducing disease activity. Physical functioning, physical role, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, grip strength, duration of morning stiffness improved significantly better in the combination group compared to indomethacin only group. The safety measures included liver and kidney function tests done didn’t differ between the study groups. This study suggests that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation with indomethacin might ameliorate disease activity and be non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) sparing in rheumatoid arthritis.Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis; Indomethacin; Omega-3 fatty acidOnline: 25 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.3020Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 63-68
Study on ascitic fluid protein level in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Mustafa M. Golam , Mamun M. Ayub Al , Alam A.K.M. Khorshed
Published: August 2009

Complement 3 is an important component of ascitic fluid total protein, which offers local defence against infection of the ascitic fluid. Hepatic synthesis of complement 3 as well as other proteins and their concentrations in ascitic fluid is significantly reduced in patients with advanced cirrhosis. The level of protein in ascitic fluid in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was compared with that in patients without spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Ascitic fluid protein level in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (n=15) was 1.1 ± 0.3 g/dL whereas it was 1.5 ± 0.5 g/dL in patients without spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (n=15). In conclusion, this study suggests that, ascitic fluid protein level is significantly (p=0.008) reduced in cirrhotic patients who develop spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.Keywords: Ascitic fluid; Bacteria; Cirrhosis; PeritonitisOnline: 11 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.3023Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 41-43
Non-adherence to drug treatment in patients of essential hypertension
Authors: Hussain Sultana Monira , Boonshuyar C.
Published: August 2009

Keywords: Non-adherence; Drug: Essential hypertensionOnline: 27 August 2009DOI: 10.3329/bmrcb.v35i2.3139Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2009; 35: 76-78
VIA: A Simple Way to Cancer Cervix Screening
Authors: Ashraf Fatema
Published: September 2009

doi: 10.3329/taj.v18i2.3169TAJ 2005; 18(2):
Accelerated Stability Study of Metronidazole Infusion 100 ml
Authors: Shaheen Sharif M
Published: September 2009

Metronidazole infusion had been prepared and studied under acceleration by heat at 37 and 50 °C temperatures. Physical and chemical evaluation had been carried out on 4th, 50th and 90th day, respectively. Chemical assay had been performed by UV light absorption spectroscopy. After 3 months stability data were analyzed by statistical regression analysis and plotted against time. It followed pseudo first order degradation kinetics. Rate constants were found out from this plot and set up in Arrhenious equation to find out the energy of activation. The rate constants were 14.1604 X 10-5 and 30.1 X 10-5 days-1 for 37 and 50 °C, respectively. According to Q10 method this value was used to determine the exact Q10 factor, which indicated its lower estimate value. Taking this lower value the expire dates were predicted for 5.3 yrs, 3.8 yrs, and 2.2 yrs, at 20 °C, 25 °C and 33 °C, respectively. These temperatures were the room temperatures of winter zone, Asian subcontinent and tropical zone, respectively.   doi: 10.3329/taj.v18i2.3191 TAJ 2005; 18(2): 113-117
Seminoma in Undescended Intra Abdominal Testis: A Case Report
Authors: Haque MM , Siddique AB , Rabbani ABMG , Quasem MA , Rahman AKMG , Rahman MM
Published: September 2009

A mass in the lower abdomen in a sexually active man with a cryptorchid testis strongly points towards the diagnosis of malignancy in the abdominal testis.1 The incidence of testicular tumor is 11 times more in inguinal testes and 50 times more in intra abdominal testes. 2 Normally, the testes, which are inside the abdomen during gestation, migrate into the scrotum by the time of birth. Occasionally, boys are born with testes that are still in the abdomen or in the groin, not having completed their journey to the scrotum. These undescended testes are at high risk of cancer and should be moved into the scrotum at an early age or removed entirely.   doi: 10.3329/taj.v18i2.3194 TAJ 2005; 18(2): 131-133
Transurethral Resection (TURP) Versus Transurethral Incision (TUIP) of the Prostate for Small Sized Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Robbani ABM Golam , Salam MA , Islam AKM Anowarul
Published: August 2009

In a prospective, randomized study, 80 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by small prostate gland (estimated weight <30gm) had either transurethral resection (TURP, n=40) or transurethral incision (TUIP, n=40) of prostate. The study was conducted in the Department of Urology, BSMMU, Dhaka and Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi. Aims of the study were to evaluate the efficacy of TUIP as a treatment modality for small size obstructive BPH and to compare its outcome with that of TURP. A relative advantage of TUIP over conventional TURP was also observed in this study. Preoperative variables (symptom scores, PVR, uroflowmetry parameters) were well matched in between TURP and TUIP group.TURPs were done in conventional technique. For TUIP, two deep incisions were made at 5- and 7-0'clock positions of the bladder neck using Colling's knife. Operative variables (operating time, amount of irrigation fluid and blood transfusion required) were observed and recorded. Postoperative catheterization period and hospital stay (in days) were noted.All patients were followed up at 3 to 4 months postoperatively. Changes of preoperative variables following surgery were assessed. Sexual functions were also questioned and noted pre- and postoperatively.The study clearly indicated that TUIP is as effective as TURP for the treatment of small sized obstructive BPH. Alterations of sexual functions are similar in both the procedures. On the other hand, operating time, requirement of irrigation fluid and blood transfusion, postoperative catheterization period and hospital stay are significantly (P>0.001) less in TUIP group than that of TURP.In conclusion, we recommend TUIP for the treatment of LUTS caused by small size obstructing benign prostatic hyperplasia.   doi: 10.3329/taj.v19i2.3149 TAJ 2006; 19(2): 50-56
Subdural Haematomas: Study of 200 cases
Authors: Rahman Md L , Ali ASM Shawkat , Islam Md Shofiqul , Mohiuddin AKM
Published: August 2009

Total 200 patients with subdural haemorrhages were managed in 11 years in Department of Neurosurgery, Rajshahi Medical College. Out of these, 80 patients had acute SDH and 120 patients had chronic SDH. All of them presented with headache and variable degree of lack of alertness. About 120 patients presented with hemi-paresis, 75 patients presented with urinary retention. Male and female patients were 180 and 20 with a ratio 9:1. All the patients were after 6th decades of life in CSDH. Bilateral acute and chronic SDH was seen in 40 (20%) patients. All of them were evacuated by two burr holes and irrigations with normal saline. One patient developed re-accumulation and drained by ventricular cannula. GCS varied from 7-13. ASDH was treated by wide craniotomy. Mortality rate was 25 (12.5%).   doi: 10.3329/taj.v19i2.3152 TAJ 2006; 19(2): 63-65
Asymptomatic Bacteriuria during Pregnancy: Causative Agents and Their Sensitivity in Rajshahi City
Authors: Selimuzzaman ABM , Ullah MA , Haque MJ
Published: August 2009

This was a cross-sectional study conducted among the pregnant mothers of 2nd trimester in the metropolitan area of Rajshahi city. Total 2000 apparently healthy pregnant mothers were selected by random sampling with the view to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in apparently healthy pregnancy, its causative agents and their sensitivity pattern in the Rajshahi city. These 2000 pregnant mothers were selected from 20 wards by applying 2-stage random sampling. Two consecutive morning midstream urine samples were collected for culture and sensitivity test. The prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in the rural Rajshahi was 14.5%. E.Coli was the commonest causative bacteria (94.83%). The urinary pathogens causing asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy in the Rajshahi city were resistance to amoxicillin, cephalexin and cephradine, moderately sensitive to doxycycline and highly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, nitrofurantoin and nalidixic acid. Screening of asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy must be considered as an essential part of antenatal care like routine checkup for albumin and sugar in urine in this city community.   doi: 10.3329/taj.v19i2.3153 TAJ 2006; 19(2): 66-69
Chronic Stimulation of Leptin on Food Intake and Body Weight after Microinjection into the Ventromedial Hypothalamus of Conscious Rats
Authors: Haque Md Shahidul , Shimazu Takashi
Published: August 2009

A very low dose of leptin (50 ng) was microinjected into the ventro-medial hypothalamus (VMH) of each rat daily once for three days. Food intake and body weight were measured after leptin injections. Microinjection of leptin into the VMH reduced food intake by 33.3 % significantly (P<0.01) during three days of leptin injection compared to the control. Body weight was measured after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h of leptin injection. After 24 h (P<0.01) and 48 h (P<0.05) of leptin injection, body weight was reduced significantly compared to that of rat before injection. Similarly, after 72 h of leptin injection, a significant reduced body weight was observed (P<0.1). A significant (P<0.001) reduced changes of body weight were found after 24 h, 48 h and 72 h after injection into the VMH when compared to the respective controls injected with saline. The results suggest that leptin has dramatic effect on reducing body weight by inhibition of food intake.   doi: 10.3329/taj.v19i2.3154 TAJ 2006; 19(2): 70-75
Human Rights and NGO ‘Wrongs’: Conflict Diamonds, Culture Wars and The ‘Bushman Question’
Authors: Solway Jacqueline
Published: August 2009

I examine the struggle surrounding the relocations of Bushmen from the Central Kalahari Game Reserve in Botswana. Despite a recent court decision allowing the Bushmen to return, the ‘war of words’ continues and the Bushmen's circumstances remain inconclusive. I analyse and compare the actions of transnational and local NGOs and the Botswana state in addressing the ‘Bushman Question’ and consider the impacts of the various strategies and images deployed. The clash between essentialized views of pristine hunter-gatherers and images of Bushmen as modern citizens in the making has contributed to the problematic outcome thus far.
Anticipating TheTsunami: Rumours, Planning and The Arbitrary State in Zimbabwe
Authors: Fontein Joost
Published: August 2009

Using ethnographic material alongside newspaper and NGO reports, this article explores popular responses to ZANU PF's devastating Operation Murambatsvina, commonly dubbed Zimbabwe'stsunami, which targeted informal markets and ‘illegal’ housing across Zimbabwe between May and August of 2005, making an estimated 700,000 people homeless and indirectly affecting a quarter of Zimbabwe's population. The article argues that central to experiences of these dramatic events ‘on the ground’ (particularly in Harare's high- and low-density suburbs of Chitungwiza and Hatfield, where most of the ethnographic material was collected) was a profound tension between the resonances evoked by official appeals to a reassertion of ‘order’ and formal planning procedures, and the spectacle of ZANU PF's public demonstration of its ability to deploy state ‘force’ ruthlessly, and indeed ‘arbitrarily’; that is, as, when and how it chose. Although the brutal execution of the programme was widely condemned by observers and victims alike, less reported has been the way in which official justifications for the operation were sometimes recognizable and salient to people living in urban areas across Zimbabwe, resonating with memories of past clearances, or with longstanding and divergent aspirations for respectability, urban ‘order’, and a functioning, bureaucratic state. It is argued that in the ambiguity and uncertainty generated by this tension the political advantages of the operation for the ruling party become most apparent. Relating the plethora of rumours circulating at the time (about the ‘hidden agendas’ behind the operation) to Mbembe's work on post-colonial conviviality, the article argues that like Mbembe's satirical cartoons these rumours did not so much undermine or subvert the authority of ZANU PF as reinforce its omnipotent presence. However, unlike the pessimism of Mbembe's vision of all encompassing power, it is argued that if the rumours that circulated about Operation Murambatsvina are an example of the constant re-making of ‘stateness’ on the margins, then the uncertain ambiguity of such rumours can not only reinforce the omnipotent presence of the ‘state power’, but also illustrate the omnipresence of its fundamental insecurity.
The Occult Does Not Exist: A Response to Terence Ranger
Authors: ter Haar Gerrie , Ellis Stephen
Published: August 2009

In recent years, it has become common for academic writers to use ‘the occult’ as an analytical category to which are assigned various types of mystical belief and activity that are quite widespread in Africa, including those often described as ‘magic’ and ‘witchcraft’. It is notable that all these concepts generally go undefined. The present article argues that much of the current academic vocabulary used to describe and analyse the invisible world that many Africans believe to exist is tainted by an intellectual history associated with colonialism. Instead, we propose that much African thought and action related to the invisible world should be considered in terms of religion, with the latter being defined contextually as a belief in the existence of an invisible world, distinct but not separate from the visible one, that is home to spiritual beings with effective powers over the material world.
Islamic Reform and Historical Change in the Care of the Dead: Conflicts Over Funerary Practice Among Tanzanian Muslims
Authors: Becker Felicitas
Published: August 2009

Muslim radicalism in Tanzania has tended to be perceived as a political problem, and as part of a trans-regional wave of Islamist movements. The present article instead seeks to demonstrate the connections between current debates among Tanzanian Muslims and long-standing ritual and social concerns, by highlighting debates on funerary practice. While these debates focus on the correct ritual process of burial (with reformists decrying elements of traditional practice as inappropriate innovation), their underlying concern is with the ability of the living to safeguard the well-being of the deceased. This concern, in turn, can be connected both to long-term social change and to the interaction between Muslim and indigenous religious notions. As propitiation of God supplants that of ancestors, the fate of the dead is increasingly construed as depending on the supplication of the living. Ultimately this religious debate is as concerned with society as with doctrine or ritual, and the opposing sides share some common ground. They do not, however, construe this as ‘Africanizing’ Islam, but as part of a necessary intellectual debate.
Traditional Medicine, Biomedicine and Christianity in Modern Zambia
Authors: Sugishita Kaori
Published: August 2009

The World Health Organization has recognized ‘traditional medicine’ as ade factoand economical substitute for biomedicine in the developing world. Accordingly, the Zambian government aims to integrate ‘traditional healers’, locally known asng'anga, with their biomedical counterparts in a national health care system. Hence, on the one hand,ng'angaelaborate their practice into ‘herbalism’, which could meet scientific standards and fit into the scope of biomedicine. On the other hand, they continue to deal with affliction by positing the existence of occult agents, such as witchcraft and spirits, at the risk of being criticized for exploiting indigenous beliefs. As a result, manyng'angaassociate themselves with Christianity, the national religion of Zambia, which serves as an official domain of the occult where they take refuge from biomedical rationalization. However, conventional churches, the government and health authorities do not approve of the link between Christianity and traditional medicine; henceng'angaas traditional healers are marginalized in modern, Christian Zambia. Being thus dissociated from the national religion,ng'angaare officially confined to the periphery of national health care, where they submit to the primacy of biomedicine and the workings of state power.
Biophilia: Does Visual Contact with Nature Impact on Health and Well-Being?
Authors: Grinde Bjørn , Patil Grete  Grindal
Published: August 2009

It is concluded that an environment devoid of Nature may act as a "discord", i.e., have a negative effect. While the term mismatch is used for any difference between present living conditions and the environment of evolutionary adaptation, discords are mismatches with a potentially undesirable impact on health or quality of life. The problem is partly due to the visual absence of plants, and may be ameliorated by adding elements of Nature, e.g., by creating parks, by offering a view through windows, and by potted plants. The conclusion is based on an evaluation of some fifty relevant empirical studies.
4,6-Diamino-5-[4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene]pyrimidin-2(5H)-one
Authors: Lobo Gricela , Charris Jaime , Valderrama Margaret , Taddei Antonieta
Published: August 2009

A new compound, 4,6-diamino-5-[4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene]pyrimidin-2(5H)-one, was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
Carnitine Conjugate of Nipecotic Acid: A New Example of Dual Prodrug
Authors: Napolitano Carmela , Scaglianti Martina , Scalambra Emanuela , Manfredini Stefano , Ferraro Luca , Beggiato Sarah , Vertuani Silvia
Published: August 2009

As a novel example of improved entry of poorly delivered drugs into the brain by means of nutrient conjugates, L-carnitine was conjugated to nipecotic acid and the capacity to antagonize PTZ-induced convulsions of this novel entity was evaluated.
Conversion of Natural Aldehydes from Eucalyptus citriodora, Cymbopogon citratus, and Lippia multiflora into Oximes: GC-MS and FT-IR Analysis †
Authors: Ouédraogo Igor W. , Boulvin Michael , Flammang Robert , Gerbaux Pascal , Bonzi-Coulibaly Yvonne L.
Published: August 2009

Three carbonyl-containing extracts of essential oils from Eucalyptus citriodora (Myrtaceae), Cymbopogon citratus (Gramineae) and Lippia multiflora (Verbenaceae) were used for the preparation of oximes. The reaction mixtures were analyzed by GC-MS and different compounds were identified on the basis of their retention times and mass spectra. We observed quantitative conversion of aldehydes to their corresponding oximes with a purity of 95 to 99%. E and Z stereoisomers of the oximes were obtained and separated by GC-MS. During GC analysis, the high temperature in the injector was shown to cause partial dehydratation of oximes and the resulting nitriles were readily identified. Based on FT-IR spectroscopy, that revealed the high stability and low volatility of these compounds, the so-obtained oximes could be useful for future biological studies.
Mapping Invasive Tamarisk (Tamarix): A Comparison of Single-Scene and Time-Series Analyses of Remotely Sensed Data
Authors: Evangelista Paul  H. , Stohlgren Thomas  J. , Morisette Jeffrey  T. , Kumar Sunil
Published: August 2009

In this study, we tested the Maximum Entropy model (Maxent) for its application and performance in remotely sensing invasive Tamarix sp. Six Landsat 7 ETM+ satellite scenes and a suite of vegetation indices at different times of the growing season were selected for our study area along the Arkansas River in Colorado. Satellite scenes were selected for April, May, June, August, September, and October and tested in single-scene and time-series analyses. The best model was a time-series analysis fit with all spectral variables, which had an AUC = 0.96, overall accuracy = 0.90, and Kappa = 0.79. The top predictor variables were June tasselled cap wetness, September tasselled cap wetness, and October band 3. A second time-series analysis, where the variables that were highly correlated and demonstrated low predictive strengths were removed, was the second best model. The third best model was the October single-scene analysis. Our results may prove to be an effective approach for mapping Tamarix sp., which has been a challenge for resource managers. Of equal importance is the positive performance of the Maxent model in handling remotely sensed datasets.
Research of DOA Estimation Based on Single MEMS Vector Hydrophone
Authors: Zhang Wen Dong , Guan Ling Gang , Zhang Guo Jun , Xue Chen Yang , Zhang Kai Rui , Wang Jian Ping
Published: August 2009

The MEMS vector hydrophone is a novel acoustic sensor with a “four-beamcilia” structure. Based on the MEMS vector hydrophone with this structure, the paper studies the method of estimated direction of arrival (DOA). According to various research papers, many algorithms can be applied to vector hydrophones. The beam-forming approach and bar graph approach are described in detail. Laboratory tests by means of the a standing-wave tube are performed to validate the theoretical results. Both the theoretical analysis and the results of tests prove that the proposed MEMS vector hydrophone possesses the desired directional function.
Qiu, R. et al. A Unified Multi-Functional Dynamic Spectrum Access Framework: Tutorial, Theory and Multi-GHzWideband Testbed. Sensors 2009, 9, 6530-6603
Authors: Qiu Robert , Guo Nan , Li Husheng , Wu Zhiqiang , Chakravarthy Vasu , Song Yu , Hu Zhen , Zhang Peng , Chen Zhe
Published: August 2009

We found that the affiliation of author Vasu Chakravarthy was incorrect in our paper published in Sensors recently. [...]
Optical Sensors Based on Whispering Gallery Modes in Fluorescent Microbeads: Size Dependence and Influence of Substrate
Authors: Francois Alexandre , Himmelhaus Michael
Published: August 2009

Whispering gallery modes in surface-fixated fluorescent polystyrene microbeads are studied in view of their capability of sensing changes in the refractive index of the beads’ environment by exposing them to water/glycerol mixtures of varying composition. The mode positions are analyzed by simultaneous fitting for mode number, bead radius, and environmental index. Down to a diameter of 8 μm, the sensor response follows the index of the bulk solution very well. For smaller bead sizes, some deviations occur, in particular for fluid indices not too different from that of water, which might be attributed to the presence of the substrate.
The Effects of Two Thick Film Deposition Methods on Tin Dioxide Gas Sensor Performance
Authors: Bakrania Smitesh D. , Wooldridge Margaret S.
Published: August 2009

This work demonstrates the variability in performance between SnO2 thick film gas sensors prepared using two types of film deposition methods. SnO2 powders were deposited on sensor platforms with and without the use of binders. Three commonly utilized binder recipes were investigated, and a new binder-less deposition procedure was developed and characterized. The binder recipes yielded sensors with poor film uniformity and poor structural integrity, compared to the binder-less deposition method. Sensor performance at a fixed operating temperature of 330 ºC for the different film deposition methods was evaluated by exposure to 500 ppm of the target gas carbon monoxide. A consequence of the poor film structure, large variability and poor signal properties were observed with the sensors fabricated using binders. Specifically, the sensors created using the binder recipes yielded sensor responses that varied widely (e.g., S = 5 – 20), often with hysteresis in the sensor signal. Repeatable and high quality performance was observed for the sensors prepared using the binder-less dispersion-drop method with good sensor response upon exposure to 500 ppm CO (S = 4.0) at an operating temperature of 330 ºC, low standard deviation to the sensor response (±0.35) and no signal hysteresis.
Sustainability Promotion and Branding: Messaging Challenges and Possibilities for Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Selby David , Jones Paula , Kagawa Fumiyo
Published: August 2009

This paper reports on case study research into six higher education institutions (three in the UK and three in the USA) that give prominence to their sustainability credentials in their paper form and/or electronic promotional and recruitment materials. The purpose of the research was to draw important lessons and identify significant issues concerning the sustainability branding and marketing of higher education institutions. Key findings include, first, the importance of calibrating sustainability marketing according to actual sustainability performance while also embracing a sustainability vision; second, the importance of combining internal with external marketing; third, the importance of institutional clarity in determining marketing parameters; fourth, the advantages of marrying broad-based ‘subtle’ marketing with intensive niche and segment marketing. It was found, too, that higher education institutions with a sustainability brand are not collecting systematic data to assess marketing impact on student recruitment, or utilizing the sustainability/employability interface to good marketing effect, or employing a multi-dimensional conception of sustainability in their marketing. There is clear evidence of the stirrings of movement away from paper-form towards electronic marketing across the cases considered. An overarching insight of the study is that rigorous institutional engagement with marketing sustainability credentials can have a significant impact on the quality and depth of sustainability performance by helping spread, enrich and diversify the institutional sustainability culture.
The stepped hybrid plate for carpal panarthrodesis
Authors: Díaz-Bertrana M. C. , Darnaculleta F. , Franch J. , Puchol J. L. , Durall I.
Published: August 2009

In the 1990s, the AO (Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen) Hand Study Group developed several anatomically bent plates (standard and short) for wrist panarthrodesis in humans. However, only straight plates have been used for carpal panarthrodesis (CP) in animals to date. The primary purpose of this study was to determine if precontoured plates are more anatomical for CP in dogs. Measurement of several of the bones that are implicated in CP, as well as the relationship between their surfaces and the surface of a straight plate, were performed in a radio-graphic and computed tomographic cadaveric study. Axial and transverse measurements taken at different levels of the metacarpal bones 2, 3 and 4 were also included. The second objective of this study was to develop a more anatomical CP plate according to the results obtained. The measurements and images obtained in this study show that, as in human orthopaedics, bent or stepped plates are more anatomically correct than straight plates for CP in dogs.
The stepped hybrid plate for carpal panarthrodesis
Authors: Díaz-Bertrana M. C. , Darnaculleta F. , Franch J. , Puchol J. L. , Durall I.
Published: August 2009

Fifty-two carpal panarthrodeses (CP) were carried out in 44 dogs (eight bilateral), in a multicentre study using a single (n = 47) or double (n = 5) stepped hybrid CP plate. Of these 44 cases, 39 were between 20–55 kg in bodyweight , 26 were males , and the carpometacarpal was the most common joint involved. Falling and other impact trauma were the most common aetiology. Pain of unknown origin, carpal luxation, chronic accessory carpal bone fracture, distal comminuted intra-articular radial fracture, bone tumour, degenerative joint disease, canine erosive idiopathic polyarthritis, avascular necrosis of the radial carpal bone and fractures of several metacarpal bones were some of the pathologies reported. Fracture of the third metacarpal bone during screw insertion was the only intrasurgical complication. Malpositioning of the plate or screws and over-tightened screws were technical errors observed in seven of the procedures. The radial carpal bone was not fixed with a screw in two cases due to bone deformity. Concurrent plate breakage and bending in the same patient operated on bilaterally was observed during the follow-up period, which represented a major complication rate of 3.8% for all procedures. Minor complications were: low grade infection, lick granuloma, digit hyperextension, screw loosening or failure, incomplete fusion of some joints and a fracture of the third metacarpal bone at the distal screw hole of the plate; which represented a rate of 44.2% on all procedures. Complete carpal healing was observed radiographically in 94.2% of all procedures. Limb function was excellent to good, and all of the owners, except for one, were satisfied with the procedure.
Spontaneous recovery of experimental valgus deformity in lambs
Authors: Asimus E. , Mathon D. , Darmana R. , Frayssinet P. , Cahuzac J.-Ph. , Autefage A. , Meynaud-Collard P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction: Angular deformity in the growing skeleton of animals, especially in the radius and ulna, is occasionally seen in clinical practice. The mechanism of spontaneous correction of these angular deformities however remains to be elucidated. The purpose of our experiment was to explore the ability of a growth plate to correct an induced valgus deformity, and to study the mechanism of correction.

Methods: Before beginning the study, valgus deformity of the distal radius had been induced in lambs by the application of a device that causes asymmetrical compression of the growth plate. The study began after removal of the device and spontaneous correction of the induced deformity was observed weekly for 20 weeks. The angles of the deformity and longitudinal growth on the medial and lateral portions of the growth plate were respectively measured on craniocaudal and mediolateral radiographs.

Results and conclusions: Spontaneous correction of the valgus deformity occurred during the first 16 weeks. It resulted from asymmetrical growth characterised by restricted activity of the medial portion of the growth plate (14.8%) in comparison to the lateral portion of the experimental radius, and also in comparison to the medial portion of the control radius.
A review of osteoarthritis and obesity: current understanding of the relationship and benefit of obesity treatment and prevention in the dog
Authors: Bockstahler B. A. , Hulse D. A. , Carmichael S. , Marshall W. G.
Published: August 2009

Obesity is an increasingly important health problem for both man and dog. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a significant cause of pain and disability in both species. A link between obesity and OA has been established in man, though the exact mechanism of the relationship remains to be fully elucidated – current research supports both biomechanical and biochemical theories. There is good evidence (class I*) to support weight loss as an effective treatment for human knee OA. In the dog, the relationship is just beginning to be investigated. The results of one study in dogs (class IV evidence*) suggest that preventing the development of overweightness and obesity reduces the prevalence of hip dysplasia and OA of the hip and other joints. Three other studies (class III and IV evidence*) support weight loss as an effective treatment for OA in affected over-weight and obese dogs. Further research could yield greater understanding of the pathophysiology of this relationship, perhaps identifying novel therapeutic targets. Confirmation and better understanding of the positive effect of treating and preventing obesity on symptoms and prevalence of OA is likely to be valuable in the campaign against canine obesity.
Use of a single-ring transarticular fixator construct for immobilisation of the talocrural joint following common calcaneal tenorrhaphy
Authors: DeCamp C. E. , Yu J. , Rooks R. L. , Norton J. C.
Published: August 2009

Objective: To describe the use of a single-ring transarticular fixator construct for use in immobilisation of the talocrural joint in order to protect the healing of surgical repair of ruptures of the common calcaneal tendon.

Methods: Ten repairs were performed in nine dogs. The age, breed, sex, details about the duration of pre-existing lameness, and the location and severity of tendon rupture at presentation were recorded for each dog. Recheck examinations were performed at one, two, four, six, eight, and 12 weeks postoperatively. At each visit up to and including six weeks, radiographs of the affected limb were taken. Fixators were removed after a mean of 5.9 weeks. Complications were documented and classified as major or minor. Major complications were those that required an additional surgical intervention.

Results: All repairs progressed to a satisfactory outcome. While eight of the 10 repairs developed some type of complication, only two required surgical intervention. In one repair, seroma formation necessitated drain placement and the other developed severe periarticular tarsal swelling necessitating early removal of the fixator. Lameness scores overall increased during the initial six weeks, however lameness quickly resolved following fixator removal. At 12 weeks postoperatively, all tendons had healed. The lameness had fully resolved in eight of 10 repairs and had drastically decreased in the remaining two.

Clinical significance: A single-ring transarticular fixator construct is a reliable means of immobilising the talocrural joint following surgical repair of the common calcaneal tendon. Periarticular tissue swelling is common but typically mild.
Crescentic osteotomy for resection of oral tumours in four do
Authors: Fransson B. , Preston C. , Reynolds D.
Published: August 2009

Rim resection of mandibular tumours and a simplified technique using a biradial osteotomy blade for maxillary tumours in dogs has not previously been described. The medical records and radiographs of dogs with mandibular (n = 3) or maxillary (n = 1) tumours resected using crescentic osteotomies were reviewed. The owners of two of the dogs reported excellent outcomes without any long-term complications or tumour recurrence. The goal of this study was to describe the surgical technique for performing a crescentic osteotomy for resection of maxillary and mandibular tumours. This technique for re-section of mandibular and maxillary tumours is clinically applicable in carefully selected cases.
Repair of long-bone fractures in cats and small dogs with the Unilock mandible locking plate system
Authors: Kull M. A. , Haessig M. , Montavon P. M. , Voss K.
Published: August 2009

Objectives: To retrospectively evaluate stabilisation of long-bone fractures in cats and small dogs using the Unilock system.

Methods: Medical histories and radiographs of consecutive patients with long-bone fractures stabilised with the Unilock system were reviewed. Cases with follow-up radiographs taken at least four weeks postoperatively were included. Signalment of the patient, fracture localisation and type, primary fracture repair or revision surgery, single or double plating, and complications for each patient were noted. Additionally, implant size, number of screws, number of cortices engaged with screws, and number of empty holes across the fracture were evaluated in fractures where a single plate had been applied.

Results: Eighteen humeral, 18 radial, 20 fe-moral, and 10 tibial fractures were treated. The Unilock system was used for primary repair in 44 fractures and for revision surgery in 22 fractures. Two plates were applied in 17 fractures, and a single plate was applied in 49 fractures. Follow-up radiographs were taken four to 109 weeks postoperatively. Complications were seen in 12 animals and 13 fractures (19.7%). Fixation failure occurred in seven fractures (10.6%). Cases with a single plate that suffered fixation failure had thinner screws in relation to bone diameter than cases with double plates, and more screws in a main fragment than those without fixation failure.

Clinical significance: The Unilock system is a suitable implant for fracture fixation of long bones in cats and small dogs.
Chondrogenic potential of mesenchymal stromal cells derived from equine bone marrow and umbilical cord blood
Authors: Koch T. G. , Heerkens T. , Besonov K. , Thomsen P. D. , Betts D. H. , Berg L. C.
Published: August 2009

Objective: Orthopaedic injury is the most common cause of lost training days or premature retirement in the equine athlete. Cell-based therapies are a potential new treatment option in musculo-skeletal diseases. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have been derived from multiple sources in the horse including bone marrow and umbilical cord blood. The objective of this study was to provide an in vitro comparison of the chondrogenic potential in MSC derived from adult bone marrow (BM-MSC) and umbilical cord blood (CB-MSC).

Results: MSC from both sources produced tissue with cartilage-like morphology that stained positive for proteoglycans and expressed cartilage markers. The CB-MSC pellets were larger and showed hyaline-like cartilage morphology as early as day six. Gene expression of collagen type 21, aggrecan and CD-RAP was higher in CB- than BM-MSC pel-lets. Expression of Sox9 mRNA was similar between CB- and BM-MSC pellets. Protein concentration of cartilage-derived retinoic acid sensitive protein was higher in culture medium from CB- than BM-MSC pellets.

Conclusion: CB-MSC and BM-MSC were both capable of producing hyaline-like cartilage in vitro. However, in this study the MSC from umbilical cord blood appeared to have more chondrogenic potential than the BMMSC based on the cells tested and parameters measured.

Supplementary Information for this paper is available on the VCOT website at www.VCOTonline.com.
Foreign body induced neuritis masquerading as a canine brachial plexus nerve sheath tumour
Authors: Scurrell E. , Summers B. A. , Mahoney P. , Penning V. , Chandler K. , Volk H. A. , Walmsley G. L.
Published: August 2009

A variety of clinical disorders caused by the foreign body reaction to migrating plant material have been reported in the dog. In this report, we describe a novel presentation in an adult dog in which this condition produced signs of progressive thoracic limb lameness and cervical spinal pain, mimicking a tumour of the brachial plexus.
Evidence-based orthopaedics or ‘superstition in the pigeon’
Authors: Evans Richard
Published: August 2009

Pigeon behavioural conditioning methods are similar to the processes that orthopaedic surgeons use to evaluate new surgical procedures. Alternatively, evidence-based orthopaedics is a tool for surgeons to evaluate procedures in a systematic, patient-centred way that is less instinctive than pigeon behaviour. The objective of this article is to describe evidence-based orthopaedics, and then propose changes to surgical culture with the aim of refining the interpretation of the current literature and improving the quality of future research. The proposals are ‘institutional’ changes rather than calls for increased funding and more randomised controlled trials.
Vacuum-assisted wound closure following urine-induced skin and thigh muscle necrosis in a cat
Authors: Hotston-Moore A. , Holt P. E. , Owen L. J.
Published: August 2009

Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) is a relatively new technique for wound management in dogs and cats. It was successfully used in this cat to treat severe urine-induced skin and thigh muscle necrosis, resulting from a traumatic urethral rupture. No complications were encountered with application of the VAC technique and production of a healthy granulation bed, suitable for wound reconstruction, was achieved after only five days of VAC treatment. The marked wound contraction (40.3%) obtained after eight days of treatment, was sufficient to allow closure of the defect using a simple, rotational subdermal plexus flap. This was a safe, effective and efficient treatment for a challenging wound in a difficult anatomical location.
Anatomical investigation of the canine cranial tibial artery
Authors: Glyde M. , Moles A.
Published: August 2009

Objective: To investigate arterial vascularity at the level of the proximal tibia as a potential source of the severe intra-operative haemorrhage, which has been previously reported as a complication during tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) and triple tibial osteotomy (TTO) surgeries in dogs. To devise a surgical approach for the management of this complication.

Method: Eight pelvic limbs from five canine cadavers were dissected and the vascular structures at the level of the proximal tibia were identified and photographed. An arterial phase angiogram was performed on a sixth cadaver to further describe the vasculature in situ. Additional dissection was performed on four pelvic limbs to devise a medial surgical approach to the popliteal artery and the cranial tibial artery proximal to the stifle.

Results: The cranial tibial artery was identified as the most likely source of profuse haemorrhaging if damaged during proximal tibial osteotomy. Its course and branching are described. A simple medial approach to the popliteal artery at the level of its bifurcation into the cranial and caudal tibial arteries was developed.

Clinical relevance: Understanding of the vascular anatomy at the level of the proximal tibia may prevent iatrogenic damage and resulting haemorrhage during TPLO and TTO surgeries. Temporary occlusion of the cranial tibial artery can be achieved through a simple medial approach, proximal to the stifle, in the event of severe haemorrhage associated with TPLO or TTO.