bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retro Modern or Revolutionary: Scale Shifts and Political Reaction in Twenty–First Century Urbanism
Authors: Smith Neil
Published: December 2010

This paper Speculates about some trends in the shape and development of twenty–first century cities. The central shift involved in new urban development concerns the altered functions and scale at which cities are constituted with the fruition of global capitalism. Stylistically the next generation of urban development will revisit modernism, and this theme is explored via a critical discussion of new urbanism and of contemporary reconstruction in Berlin. Yet the capitalist revolution that will mark the first years of the twenty‐first century may itself be vulnerable, and the possibility exists for revolutionary change in the social relations that give rise to specific patterns and processes of urban development and therefore to equally revolutionary urban forms. [Scale, modernism, revolution, Berlin, revanchism, new urbanism]
Citizenship, Locality and Resistance
Authors: McDonogh Gary W.
Published: December 2010

While urbanists may see the future city melting into flows of information or erupting into conflicts among ever more divided populations, concrete and longstanding attachments of people and places have nonetheless continually reconstituted urban societies over millennia and may also illuminate our analyses of the future. While recognizing transnational movements, dual cities and urban sprawl, we must also ask who still lives in cities, why, and what these citizens may try to do about their own futures. Here, citizenship proves an intriguing category for understanding cities and predicting their future. To explore this phenomenon, this paper evaluates strategies by which three diverse metropolitan centers—Hong Kong, Philadelphia and Barcelona —already have created their groundwork for future civic participation and the future city. [Urban, citizenship, Hong Kong, Philadelphia, Barcelona]
Hong Kong's Twenty–First Century Seen From 1997
Authors: Smart Alan
Published: December 2010

During the transition to its new status as a Special Administrative Region of China, the future of Hong Kong was the focus of the world's attention. This paper looks at the futures that were projected at the time of the transition, frequently on the basis of reference to the need to preserve some special key to the successes that the city had accomplished in the past Much of this future is already imminent in the infrastructural projects that are in already in progress, and which are based on expectations about the role of Hong Kong in China and the world. Finally, the essay explores how ordinary citizens have been living the transition. [Hong Kong, China, future, planning, transition]
Criminal-Justice and School Sanctions Against Nonheterosexual Youth: A National Longitudinal Study
Authors: Himmelstein Kathryn E. W. , Brückner Hannah
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Nonheterosexual adolescents are vulnerable to health risks including addiction, bullying, and familial abuse. We examined whether they also suffer disproportionate school and criminal-justice sanctions.

METHODS:

The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health followed a nationally representative sample of adolescents who were in grades 7 through 12 in 1994–1995. Data from the 1994–1995 survey and the 2001–2002 follow-up were analyzed. Three measures were used to assess nonheterosexuality: same-sex attraction, same-sex romantic relationships, and lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) self-identification. Six outcomes were assessed: school expulsion; police stops; juvenile arrest; juvenile conviction; adult arrest; and adult conviction. Multivariate analyses controlled for adolescents' sociodemographics and behaviors, including illegal conduct.

RESULTS:

Nonheterosexuality consistently predicted a higher risk for sanctions. For example, in multivariate analyses, nonheterosexual adolescents had greater odds of being stopped by the police (odds ratio: 1.38 [P < .0001] for same-sex attraction and 1.53 [P < .0001] for LGB self-identification). Similar trends were observed for school expulsion, juvenile arrest and conviction, and adult conviction. Nonheterosexual girls were at particularly high risk.

CONCLUSIONS:

Nonheterosexual youth suffer disproportionate educational and criminal-justice punishments that are not explained by greater engagement in illegal or transgressive behaviors. Understanding and addressing these disparities might reduce school expulsions, arrests, and incarceration and their dire social and health consequences.
Selectively High Level of Serum Interleukin 5 in a Newborn Infant With Cow's Milk Allergy
Authors: Koike Yasunori , Takahashi Naoto , Yada Yukari , Kawamata Ryou , Sato Yuko , Momoi Mariko Y.
Published: December 2010

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) in the neonatal period is thought to include several clinical conditions, yet the pathophysiology remains unclear. We report here the case of a term newborn infant who showed hematochezia 36 hours after the first feeding with cow's milk formula. His serum immunoglobulin E levels were not elevated, although eosinophils were detected in the stool. Elimination of cow's milk formula resolved the symptoms, and from the clinical course and laboratory data the infant was diagnosed with CMA. The serum interleukin 5 (IL-5) (125 pg/mL) level in this patient was selectively elevated. However, serum levels of other T-helper 2 (Th2) cytokines (including IL-4 and IL-13), Th1 cytokines (including interferon γ), and proinflammatory cytokines (including tumor necrosis factor α) were not elevated. These findings suggest that, for this patient, IL-5 and eosinophils might have played a role in the development of neonatal CMA. Although this finding is reported from only 1 case, it highlights the need for serum IL-5 to be determined in more neonatal patients with CMA to further clarify the pathophysiology of this condition in the neonatal period.
Association of Smoking Onset With R-Rated Movie Restrictions and Adolescent Sensation Seeking
Authors: de Leeuw Rebecca N. H. , Sargent James D. , Stoolmiller Mike , Scholte Ron H. J. , Engels Rutger C. M. E. , Tanski Susanne E.
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVES:

In this study, we examined how often US youths reported having complete parental restrictions on watching R-rated movies. In addition, we assessed the relationship between parental R-rated movie restrictions and adolescents' sensation seeking and how this interplay is related to smoking onset.

METHODS:

Data from a 4-wave longitudinal study of 6522 adolescents (10–14 years of age) who were recruited through a random-digit-dial telephone survey were used. At baseline, subjects were nationally representative of the US population. Subjects were monitored for 2 years and queried about their smoking status, their sensation-seeking propensity, and how often they were allowed to watch R-rated movies. A cross-lagged model combined with survival analysis was used to assess the relationships between parental R-rated movie restrictions, sensation-seeking propensity, and risk for smoking onset.

RESULTS:

Findings demonstrated that 32% of the US adolescents reported being completely restricted from watching R-rated movies by their parents. Model findings revealed that adolescents' sensation seeking was related to greater risk for smoking onset not only directly but also indirectly through their parents becoming more permissive of R-rated movie viewing. Parental R-rated movie restrictions were found to decrease the risk of smoking onset directly and indirectly by changing children's sensation seeking.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings imply that, beyond direct influences, the relationship between adolescents' sensation seeking and parental R-rated movie restrictions in explaining smoking onset is bidirectional in nature. Finally, these findings highlight the relevance of motivating and supporting parents in limiting access to R-rated movies.
Child Abuse and Neglect and Cognitive Function at 14 Years of Age: Findings From a Birth Cohort
Authors: Mills Ryan , Alati Rosa , O'Callaghan Michael , Najman Jake M. , Williams Gail M. , Bor William , Strathearn Lane
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the association between child maltreatment (abuse and neglect) and long-term cognitive outcomes within a prospective birth cohort.

METHODS:

A birth cohort of 7223 children was recruited. Independent reports of suspected child maltreatment were confidentially linked to the longitudinal study database. The principal predictor variable was notification to the state child-protection authority for suspected maltreatment (abuse, neglect, or both). The outcome variables were scores on the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) reading test and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM), completed at 14 years of age. Multivariate regression analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders.

RESULTS:

A total of 3796 subjects completed either the WRAT or RSPM. There was a higher loss to follow-up among children who had been reported to the state as suspected victims of maltreatment. After controlling for a range of possible confounders and modifiers, notification to the state for child maltreatment (abuse, neglect, or both) was associated with a lower score on both the WRAT (mean difference: −4.4 when the SD is 15 [95% confidence interval: −6.3 to −2.5]) and RSPM (mean difference: −4.8 when the SD is 15 [95% confidence interval: −6.7 to −2.9]). Both reported abuse and neglect were independently associated with lower reading ability and perceptual reasoning.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both child abuse and child neglect are independently associated with impaired cognition and academic functioning in adolescence. These findings suggest that both abuse and neglect have independent and important adverse effects on a child's cognitive development.
DOTS in primary care units in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Vanja , Brito Cláudia , Portela Margareth , Escosteguy Claudia , Lima Sheyla
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE: To describe the implantation and the effects of directly-observed treatment short course (DOTS) in primary health care units. METHODS: Interviews were held with the staff of nine municipal health care units (MHU) that provided DOTS in Rio de Janeiro City, Southeastern Brazil, in 2004-2005. A dataset with records of all tuberculosis treatments beginning in 2004 in all municipal health care units was collected. Bivariate analyses and a multinomial model were applied to identify associations between treatment outcomes and demographic and treatment process variables, including being in DOTS or self-administered therapy (SAT). RESULTS: From 4,598 tuberculosis cases treated in public health units administrated by the municipality, 1,118 (24.3%) were with DOTS and 3,480 (75.7%) with SAT. The odds of DOTS were higher among patients with age under 50 years, tuberculosis relapse and prior history of default or treatment failure. The odds of death were 52.0% higher among patients on DOTS as compared to SAT. DOTS modality including community health workers (CHWs) showed the highest treatment success rate. A reduction of 21.0% was observed in the odds of default (vs. cure) among patients on DOTS as compared to patients on SAT, and a reduction of 64.0% among patients on DOTS with CHWs as compared to those without CHWs. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with a "low compliance profile" were more likely to be included in DOTS. This strategy improves the quality of care provided to tuberculosis patients, although the proposed goals were not achieved.
Directed Therapy of Subtypes of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Carey Lisa A.
Published: December 2010

In developed countries, there has been a remarkable improvement in mortality from breast cancer, but almost all of that benefit has occurred in the estrogen receptor (ER)+ and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2+ subsets. Triple-negative breast cancer, defined as tumors that are negative for ER, progesterone receptor, and HER-2, represent a minority of breast cancers. However, because of the poor prognosis in this particular subtype, triple-negative disease accounts for a disproportionate number of metastatic cases and breast cancer deaths. While chemotherapy is effective in triple-negative disease, research continues to better target therapies and predict prognosis. Recent studies have suggested a link between BRCA mutations and triple-negative disease, but the nature of this link remains opaque. Antiangiogenic agents such as bevacizumab have demonstrated efficacy across subtypes. More recently, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors appear to take advantage of the concept of synthetic lethality, or dual pathway inhibition, in attacking triple-negative and BRCA-associated tumors. These and other studies in triple-negative disease will help us to better identify effective treatment options and improve outcomes in these patients. This article addresses the nature of, and therapeutic strategies for, triple-negative breast cancer.
Formulation of meloxicam gel for topical application: In vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Bachhav Yogeshwar , Patravale Vandana
Published: December 2010

Formulation of meloxicam gel for topical application: In vitro and in vivo evaluation

Skin delivery of NSAIDs offers several advantages over the oral route associated with potential side effects. In the present investigation, topical gel of meloxicam (MLX) was formulated using N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) as a solubilizer and Carbopol Ultrez 10® as a gelling polymer. MLX gel was evaluated with respect to different physicochemical parameters such as pH, viscosity and spreadability. Irritation potential of MLX gel was studied on rabbits. Permeation of MLX gel was studied using freshly excised rat skin as a membrane. Anti-inflammatory activity of MLX gel was studied in rats and compared with the commercial formulation of piroxicam (Pirox® gel, 0.5% m/m). Accelerated stability studies were carried out for MLX gel for 6 months according to ICH guidelines. MLX gel was devoid of any skin irritation in rabbits. After 12 h, cumulative permeation of MLX through excised rat skin was 3.0 ± 1.2 mg cm-2 with the corresponding flux value of 0.24 ± 0.09 mg cm-2 h-1. MLX gel exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory activity in rats compared to Pirox® gel. Physicochemically stable and non-irritant MLX gel was formulated which could deliver significant amounts of active substance across the skin in vitro and in vivo to elicit the anti-inflammatory activity.
Control-volume-based model of the steam-water injector flow
Authors: Kwidziński Roman
Published: December 2010

Control-volume-based model of the steam-water injector flow

The paper presents equations of a mathematical model to calculate flow parameters in characteristic cross-sections in the steam-water injector. In the model, component parts of the injector (steam nozzle, water nozzle, mixing chamber, condensation wave region, diffuser) are treated as a series of connected control volumes. At first, equations for the steam nozzle and water nozzle are written and solved for known flow parameters at the injector inlet. Next, the flow properties in two-phase flow comprising mixing chamber and condensation wave region are determined from mass, momentum and energy balance equations. Then, water compression in diffuser is taken into account to evaluate the flow parameters at the injector outlet. Irreversible losses due to friction, condensation and shock wave formation are taken into account for the flow in the steam nozzle. In two-phase flow domain, thermal and mechanical nonequilibrium between vapour and liquid is modelled. For diffuser, frictional pressure loss is considered. Comparison of the model predictions with experimental data shows good agreement, with an error not exceeding 15% for discharge (outlet) pressure and 1 K for outlet temperature.
Application of sorption heat pumps for increasing of new power sources efficiency
Authors: Vasiliev L. , Filatova O. , Tsitovich A.
Published: December 2010

Application of sorption heat pumps for increasing of new power sources efficiency

In the 21st century the way to increase the efficiency of new sources of energy is directly related with extended exploration of renewable energy. This modern tendency ensures the fuel economy needs to be realized with nature protection. The increasing of new power sources efficiency (cogeneration, trigeneration systems, fuel cells, photovoltaic systems) can be performed by application of solid sorption heat pumps, regrigerators, heat and cold accumulators, heat transformers, natural gas and hydrogen storage systems and efficient heat exchangers.
Experiences from operation of different expansion devices for application in domestic micro CHP
Authors: Mikielewicsz Dariusz , Mikielewicz Jarosław , Wajs Jan
Published: December 2010

Experiences from operation of different expansion devices for application in domestic micro CHP

In the paper presented are experiences from operation of three different expansion devices for possible implementation in the domestic micro CHP. These were the modified scroll expander and two designs based on the variable working chamber volume pneumatic devices. Experiments showed the superiority of both "pneumatic devices" over the scroll expander, indicating the possible internal efficiencies in the range of 61 82Such efficiencies are very attractive, especially at the higher end of that range. The volume of these devices is much smaller than the scroll expander which makes it again more suitable for a domestic micro CHP. Small rotational velocities enable to conclude that connection to electricity grid will also be simpler in the case of "pneumatic devices". The "pneumatic devices" under scrutiny here could be an alternative to the typical vapour turbine in the ORC cycle, which is in the process of development at the IFFM.
Energy efficiency for the transcritical compression CO2 cycle with the use of the ejector as the first stage of the compression
Authors: Kozioł Joachim , Gazda Wiesław , Wilżyński Łukasz
Published: December 2010

Energy efficiency for the transcritical compression CO2cycle with the use of the ejector as the first stage of the compression

An analysis of energy efficiency for transcritical compression unit with CO2 (R744) as the refrigerant has been carried out using empirical operating characteristics for the two-phase ejector. The first stage of the refrigerant compression is carried out in the ejector. The criterion adopted for the estimation of energy efficiency for the cycle is the coefficient of performance COP. The analysis is performed for the heat pump and refrigeration systems. The results of COP for the systems with the ejector has been compared with the COPLvalues for the single stage Linde cycle.
Influence of heat recuperation in ORC power plant on efficiency of waste heat utilization
Authors: Borsukiewicz-Gozdur Aleksandra
Published: December 2010

Influence of heat recuperation in ORC power plant on efficiency of waste heat utilization

The present work is devoted to the problem of utilization of the waste heat contained in the exhaust gases having the temperature of 350 °C. Conversion of the waste heat into electricity using a power plant working with organic fluid cycles is considered. Three Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) power plant solutions are analysed and compared: a solution with the basic, single thermodynamic conversion cycle, one with internal heat recuperation and one with external heat recuperation. It results from the analysis that it is the proper choice of the working fluid evaporation temperature that fundamentally affects the maximum of the ORC plant output power. Application of the internal heat recuperation in the plant basic cycle results in the output power increase of approx. 5%. Addition of the external heat recuperation to the plant basic cycle, in the form of a secondary supercritical ORC power cycle can rise the output power by approx. 2%.
Overview of Fading Channel Modeling
Authors: Noga Krystyna , Pałczyńska Beata
Published: December 2010

Overview of Fading Channel Modeling

VisSim and LabVIEW based approaches are proposed and implemented to demonstrate fading in the communication systems. The introduction to fading, models for flat fading like Rayleigh, Weibull, Nakagami-mand the results of simulations are presented.
Modified Distributed Arithmetic Concept for Implementations Targeted at Heterogeneous FPGAs
Authors: Rawski Mariusz
Published: December 2010

Modified Distributed Arithmetic Concept for Implementations Targeted at Heterogeneous FPGAs

Distributed Arithmetic (DA) plays an important role in designing digital signal processing modules for FPGA architectures. It allows replacing multiply-and-accumulate (MAC) operations with combinational blocks. The quality of implementations based on DA strongly depends on efficiency of methods that map combinational DA block into FPGA resources. Since modern FPGAs have heterogeneous structure, there is a need for quality algorithms to target these structures and the need for flexible architecture exploration aiding in appropriate mapping. The paper presents a modification of DA concept that allows for very efficient implementation in heterogeneous FPGA architectures.
Programmable, Asynchronous, Triangular Neighborhood Function for Self-Organizing Maps Realized on Transistor Level
Authors: Kolasa Marta , Długosz Rafał , Bieliński Krzysztof
Published: December 2010

Programmable, Asynchronous, Triangular Neighborhood Function for Self-Organizing Maps Realized on Transistor Level

A new hardware implementation of the triangular neighborhood function (TNF) for ultra-low power, Kohonen self-organizing maps (SOM) realized in the CMOS 0.18μm technology is presented. Simulations carried out by means of the software model of the SOM show that even low signal resolution at the output of the TNF block of 3-6 bits (depending on input data set) does not lead to significant disturbance of the learning process of the neural network. On the other hand, the signal resolution has a dominant influence on the overall circuit complexity i.e. the chip area and the energy consumption. The proposed neighborhood mechanism is very fast. For an example neighborhood range of 15 a delay between the first and the last neighboring neuron does not exceed 20 ns. This in practice means that the adaptation process starts in all neighboring neurons almost at the same time. As a result, data rates of 10-20 MHz are achievable, independently on the number of neurons in the map. The proposed SOM dissipates the power in-between 100 mW and 1 W, depending on the number of neurons in the map. For the comparison, the same network realized on PC achieves in simulations data rates in-between 10 Hz and 1 kHz. Data rate is in this case linearly dependend on the number of neurons.
Low Power, High Dynamic Range Analogue Multiplexer for Multi-Channel Parallel Recording of Neuronal Signals Using Multi-Electrode Arrays
Authors: Rydygier Przemysław , Dąbrowski Władysław , Fiutowski Tomasz , Wiącek Piotr
Published: December 2010

Low Power, High Dynamic Range Analogue Multiplexer for Multi-Channel Parallel Recording of Neuronal Signals Using Multi-Electrode Arrays

In the paper we present the design and test results of an integrated circuit combining a sample&hold circuit and an analogue multiplexer. The circuit has been designed as a building block for a multi-channel Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) for recording signals from alive neuronal tissue using high-density micro-electrode arrays (MEAs). The design is optimised with respect to critical requirements for such applications, i.e. short sampling time, low power dissipation, good linearity and high dynamic range. Presented design comprises sample&hold circuits with class AB operational amplifier, novel shift register, which allows minimising cross-coupling of the clock signal and control logic. The circuit has been designed in 0.35μm CMOS process and has been successfully implemented in a prototype multi-channel ASIC.
A 800μW 1GHz Charge Pump Based Phase-Locked Loop in Submicron CMOS Process
Authors: Zaziabl Adam
Published: December 2010

A 800μW 1GHz Charge Pump Based Phase-Locked Loop in Submicron CMOS Process

Demand of modern measurement systems in submicron CMOS process introduced new challenges in design of low power high frequency clock generation systems. Technical possibilities for clock generation using classical oscillator based on a quartz filter is limited to tens of megahertz. Thus, 1 GHz clock generation is not possible without a frequency multiplier system. It is difficult to achieve, because in submicron process, where the integration of analog and digital blocks poses serious challenges. The proposed solution is a low power charge pump phase-locked loop (CPPLL) with the center frequency of 1 GHz. It combines various modern circuit techniques, whose main aim is to lower power consumption, which is below 800 μW for the whole PLL, while maintaining good noise properties, where the jitter rms is 8.87 ps. The proposed phase-locked loop is designed in 0.18 μm CMOS process.
Modeling of Synchronous Data Streams Processing in the RPC Muon Trigger System of the CMS Experiment
Authors: Poźniak Krzysztof
Published: December 2010

Modeling of Synchronous Data Streams Processing in the RPC Muon Trigger System of the CMS Experiment

This paper presents signal synchronization aspects in a large, distributed, multichannel RPC Muon Trigger system in the CMS experiment. The paper is an introduction to normalized structure analysis methods of such systems. The method introduces a general model of the system, presented in a form of a network of distributed, synchronous, pipeline processes. The model is based on a definition of a synchronous data stream and its formal, fundamental properties. Theoretical considerations are supported by a practical application of synchronous streams and processes management. The following processes were modeled and implemented in hardware: window synchronization, derandomization, data concentration and generation of test pulses. There are presented chosen results of the model application in the CMS experiment.
Regular Associated Solution Model for the Estimation of Heat of Mixing of Binary Liquid Alloys
Authors: Adhikari D , Singh BP , Jha IS
Published: December 2010

We have determined the equilibrium constants and pairwise interaction energies between the species and the complexes of liquid CuSn, AgAl and FeSi, alloys on the basis of regular associated solution model. These parameters are then used to estimate the heat of mixing of each alloy. The observed asymmetry in the heat of mixing of each alloy with respect to concentration is well explained. Key Words: Free energy of mixing; Asymmetry; Binary alloys, interaction energyThe corrected version of this PDF was loaded on 8/12/2010.DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v6i0.3931BIBECHANA Vol. 6, March 2010 pp.1-8
Bio-Diversity Conservation in Nepal
Authors: Thapa D
Published: December 2010

The importance of biodiversity has been explained with examples. The effort applied for the conservation of biodiversity in Nepal has been studied. I have also presented the species which are legally protected by the Nepal government. Keywords: biodiversity; wildlife reserves; aquatic animalsDOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v6i0.3937BIBECHANA Vol. 6, March 2010 pp.31-36
Studies on molluscs of Betna wetlands and its surroundings, Nepal
Authors: Chhetry Damodar Thapa
Published: December 2010

This paper deals with 15 freshwater and 1 terrestrial mollusc species collected from Betna wetland and its surroundings. Among the collected 16 species, 12 species were gastropods representing 3 orders, 6 families, 8 genera and 4 species were bivalves representing 1 order, 2 families and 2 genera. Seven species of the total species of molluscs were edible and consume by the local people and 3 species were harmful. Key words: Molluscs diversity; Betna wetland DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v7i0.4041BIBECHANA 7 (2011) 30-32
Some results on asymptotically normable Frechet spaces
Authors: Palei GK , Sah NP
Published: December 2010

In this paper, it is shown that the asymptotically normable spaces are the smallest class of Frechet spaces which contains the nuclear Kothe spaces with continuous norm, the Banach spaces and is closed under e-tensor products and sub-spaces. Again our main aim will be to construct an example of a Kothe space which is Montel, admits a continuous norm, but still is not asymptotically normable. Keywords: Asymptotically normable; Frechet space; Kothe space DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v7i0.4043BIBECHANA 7 (2011) 39-43
Rotaxane: a switching element in molecular electronics
Authors: Chaudhary NK
Published: December 2010

The switching in materials is the most interesting phenomenon discovered in materials, both organic and inorganic. The switching materials opened a large class of applications in electronics and informatics. Rotaxane is one such type of molecule which shows switching ability by the action of external stimuli either chemical or physical. Reversible structural change occurring in rotaxane due to external stimulus is described and its application in nanorecording is also studied. Keywords: CBPQT (cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene); TTF (tetrathiafulvalene); DNP (1,5- dioxynaphthalene)DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v7i0.4044BIBECHANA 7 (2011) 44-48
Applications of KS - variables in celestial mechanics
Authors: Hassan MR , Thapa RR
Published: December 2010

This paper deals with the transformation of KS-Variables and canonically conjugate variables from sideral (inertial) to synodic (rotating) form and their applications in "the circular restricted problem of three bodies in three-dimensional coordinate system" to form generating solutions. Keywords: KS - transformation; KS - Variables; Orbital elements; Generating solutions DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v7i0.4046BIBECHANA 7 (2011) 54-60
Waste management
Authors: Pradhan Devesh
Published: December 2010

Waste management has become very challenging in our society. Different types of wastes which are produced in our society have been investigated. Special attention has been given in the management methods of waste. Keywords: Industrial waste; Domestic waste; Composting; Recycling DOI: 10.3126/bibechana.v7i0.4048BIBECHANA 7 (2011) 65-69
American Studies in Review
Authors: Brown Peter
Published: December 2010

Abstract:

This essay reviews Don H. Doyle's Faulkner's County: The Historical Roots of Yoknapatawpha and Edouard Glissant's Faulkner Mississippi. Doyle's book is a detailed social history of Lafayette County, the county in Northern Mississippi on which Faulkner's fictional Yoknapatawpha was based, and I argue that he illustrates the ways in which fiction and history can assist each other in the search for truth. Glissant's book is more dense and philosophical, and I offer an interpretation of his claim that Faulkner's fiction works through “deferred revelation,” a literary process that is inseparable from social and cultural Creolization. I argue that Glissant's reading of Faulkner suggests possible ways in which to re-vision literary modernism. Together, the two books underscore the historical and philosophical significance and value of Faulkner's work.
Models of Integrating Physical Therapists into Family Health Teams in Ontario, Canada: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Cott Cheryl A. , Mandoda Shilpa , Landry Michel D.
Published: December 2010

Purpose: To explore the potential for different models of incorporating physical therapy (PT) services within the emerging network of family health teams (FHTs) in Ontario and to identify challenges and opportunities of each model.

Methods: A two-phase mixed-methods qualitative descriptive approach was used. First, FHTs were mapped in relation to existing community-based PT practices. Second, semi-structured key-informant interviews were conducted with representatives from urban and rural FHTs and from a variety of community-based PT practices. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a categorizing/editing approach.

Results: Most participants agreed that the ideal model involves embedding physical therapists directly into FHTs; in some situations, however, partnering with an existing external PT provider may be more feasible and sustainable. Access and funding remain the key issues, regardless of the model adopted.

Conclusion: Although there are differences across the urban/rural divide, there exist opportunities to enhance and optimize existing delivery models so as to improve client access and address emerging demand for community-based PT services.
Live/Real Time Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiographic Evaluation of Mitral and Aortic Valve Prosthetic Paravalvular Regurgitation
Authors: Singh Preeti , Manda Jayaprakash , Hsiung Ming Chon , Mehta Anjlee , Kesanolla Saritha Kumari , Nanda Navin C , Tsai Shen-Kou , Wei Jeng , Yin Wei-Hsian
Published: December 2010

Thirteen patients already scheduled for surgery for repair of prosthetic paravalvular regurgitation underwent intraoperative real time two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D TEE) and live/real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE). In all patients, 3D TEE was able to provide more information regarding the location and size of the paravalvular defect as compared to 2D TEE. 3D TEE resulted in a more accurate localization of the defect and an estimation of the size of the defect that correlated much more closely with surgical findings when compared with 2D TEE. Our preliminary results demonstrate the superiority of 3D TEE over 2D TEE in the evaluation of paravalvular prosthetic regurgitation. 3D TEE not only provides an accurate assessment of the exact site of the leakage, but also gives a more accurate estimate of its size. This information could be valuable to surgeons who may encounter difficulty when localizing and estimating the size of paraprosthetic leaks while the heart is devoid of blood during surgery.Keywords: Three-dimensional echocardiography; Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography; Prosthetic paravalvular regurgitation; prosthetic valves; Transesophageal echocardiography DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v2i2.6627Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 2(2) : 121-127
Acute Coronary Syndrome in the Young - Risk Factors and Angiographic Pattern
Authors: Haque AFMS , Siddiqui AR , Rahman SMM , Iqbal SA , Fatema NN , Khan Z
Published: December 2010

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a worldwide health epidemic. Acute coronary syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition and patient may die or become disabled in the prime of life. There is documented evidence that South Asian people develop CAD at a higher rate and also at an early age. If the affected individual is 40 yrs old or below, the tragic consequences are catastrophic. Methods: It was a retrospective observational study to find out the pattern of acute coronary syndrome in the young (40 years old or less) in a military hospital (CMH Dhaka) from July 2007 to July 2008 and to analyze the risk factors and the angiographic characteristics of coronary vessels. Consecutive 64 young patients including both male and female admitted into this hospital were the study subjects. Out of these patients 53 were males and 11 were females. Among these patients coronary risk factors and angiographic pattern were studied. 64 older patients with Acute coronary syndrome (age more than 40 years) were also studied. Results: Out of 64 young patients 15.6% patients presented to this hospital as UA, 9.37% presented as Non-Q MI, 28.12% Acute Anterior MI, 14.06% Acute Anteroseptal MI, 26.56% Acute Inferior MI, 6.25% Acute Infero-posterior MI. Smoking was the most common risk factor among these young patients. 64.06% patients were smoker. Dyslipidaemia was present among 50% patients, 37.55% were hypertensive, 15.62% were diabetic, and 15.62% were obese. SVCAD was the most common lesion and it was 53.12%. 26.56% patients had DVCAD and TVCAD was present among 20.31% patients. In the older group (more than 40 years) most common risk factor was dyslipidaemia (71.88%) and smoking was present among 48.43% patients. Conclusion: Young patients have a different risk factor profile in comparison with older patients. Smoking is a strong and quite common coronary risk factor in the young ACS patients who are 40 years or less. Risk factor identification and control is very crucial in the primary and secondary prevention in young patients with CAD. Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome; Risk factors; Coronary Angiography DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v2i2.6635Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 2(2) : 175-178
Incidence and Prevalence of Atherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis (RAS) in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Authors: Islam AHMW , Munwar S , Talukder S , Reza AQM
Published: December 2010

Background: Aim of our present study was to evaluate the extent of Renal Artery Stenosis(RAS) in patients with Coronary Artery disease (CAD) in context of Bangladesh demographic distribution. Methods: Total 100 patients with renal artery disease were randomized from a pool of 1200 patients who were underwent routine diagnostic coronary angiogram for the evaluation of extent of their CAD. Renal arteries were studied at the same time. Among the patients, Male: 64 and Female: 36. Mean age were for Male: 62yrs, for Female: 58 yrs. Associated CAD risk factors were Dyslipidemia, High Blood pressure, Diabetes Mellitus, Positive FH for CAD and Smoking. Results: Our study results show 100 patients (12% of the sample) had RAS lesion out of total 1200 patient who underwent routine CAG. Sex distribution is male 64 (64%), Female 36 (36%). Among the study group; 79 (79%) were hypertensive; 57 (57%) were Dyslipidemic, 54 (54%) patients were Diabetic, 27 (27%) were smoker (all male) and 18(18%) were having positive FH for CAD. Female patients were more obese and developed CAD in advanced age (male: 53.5 Versus Female:64 yrs). We found that the Prevalence’s of RAS is more in patients with TVD (43%), followed by DVD (10%) and SVD (10%), Minor to mod CAD (14%) and angiographically normal coronaries (23%). Significant (>50% Stenosis) Left renal artery stenosis were found in 27 patient and 23 had significant Right renal artery stenosis. Total 8 patents had significant both renal artery stenosis. Conclusion: Renal artery stenosis is one of the most important peripheral vascular disease, needing to be diagnosed early and subsequent intervention to keep continuity of renal blood flow. In the present study, we found that the significant association of Renal Artery Stenosis in patients with CAD. Incidence of RAS is more in patients with TVD. Therefore, we recommend routine Renal angiogram during coronary angiography. Keywords: Renal artery stenosis; Coronary Artery Disease  DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v2i2.6636Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 2(2) : 179-183
A trial on the Effects of Life Style Interventions in High-Normal Blood Pressure
Authors: Choudhury KN , Mahmud RS , Salehuddin M , Zareen S , Uddin SN , Ghosh SK
Published: December 2010

Background: This experimental (Intervention) study was conducted with objective of evaluating the outcome of non-pharmacological approach (lifestyle intervention) through reducing the modifiable risk factors on high normal blood pressure or pre-hypertension (systolic blood pressure130- 139mm of Hg and diastolic blood pressure 85-89 mm of Hg).The study was provided risk reduction management intervention was given on subjects of high normal blood pressure through adequate physical activity, tobacco cessation, dietary advice for unhealthy to healthy diet, reduction of salt intake, reduction of over weight & stress management etc. Materials and methods: The study was conducted among 434 respondents aged 30 -50 years during the period from June 2008 to May 2009 with intervention for 6 months.Random sampling, those cases were fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion. High-normal BP were found out through BP measurement & clinical examination then sample population were selected by randomization: odds numbers in study group (intervention group) and even numbers in control group (comparision group). After obtaing informed consent data were collected by interview, clinical examination, anthropometric measurement and investigations. It was three phases, first phase were case identification & intervention for study group, second phase was follow up and third phase was outcome measurement for both groups. Cases were hold a record card with contact number. Results: After six month mean difference of blood pressure, lipid profile, weight were changed both the groups but changed was significant in the study group. Mean systolic blood pressure reduced 4.1±6.0 in the study group and 1.2±6.4 in the control group,(p< 0.001). Mean diastolic pressure reduced 3.5±4.9 in study group and 1.2±6.4 in control group (p<0.001). Mean total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides decreased in the study group 19.7±18.6, 10.6±14.6 and 15.4 ±21 respectivley and in control group mean of all these parameters decreased to 11.5±16.5, 5.1±12.9 and 6.7±23.2 respectively. Mean HDL cholesterol for men and women in the study group was raised to 5.6±5.9 and 4.5± 6.4 respectively (p<0.001). Mean weight reduced 1.94±1.59 in study group and 0.06±1.44 in the control group (p<0.001).Conclusion: The final outcome of the study was that mean high normal blood pressure was found to reduced due to intervention of non- pharmacological management. So, If we encourages subjects after 40 years for routine health check up in hospital setting & service for risk factor detection & management (preventive cardiology), we will reduce the risk factors of high normal blood pressure (pre-hypertension) & cardiovascular diseases to some extent. Encourages population to stay with normal blood pressure & healthy life style. Keywords: High-normal blood pressure; Pre-hypertension; Life style modification; Nonpharmacological intervention. DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v2i2.6639Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 2(2) : 195-203
Enhanced External Counterpulsation - A Review
Authors: Sayami LA , Ullah M , Rahman MT , Rahman Z , Roy D , Majumder AAS
Published: December 2010

DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v2i2.6647Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 2(2) : 236-244
Plasticity of Fetal Cartilaginous Cells
Authors: Quintin Aurelie , Schizas Constantin , Scaletta Corinne , Jaccoud Sandra , Applegate Lee Ann , Pioletti Dominique P.
Published: December 2010

Tissue-specific stem cells found in adult tissues can participate in the repair process following injury. However, adult tissues, such as articular cartilage and intervertebral disc, have low regeneration capacity, whereas fetal tissues, such as articular cartilage, show high regeneration ability. The presence of fetal stem cells in fetal cartilaginous tissues and their involvement in the regeneration of fetal cartilage is unknown. The aim of the study was to assess the chondrogenic differentiation and the plasticity of fetal cartilaginous cells. We compared the TGF-β3-induced chondrogenic differentiation of human fetal cells isolated from spine and cartilage tissues to that of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC). Stem cell surface markers and adipogenic and osteogenic plasticity of the two fetal cell types were also assessed. TGF-β3 stimulation of fetal cells cultured in high cell density led to the production of aggrecan, type I and II collagens, and variable levels of type X collagen. Although fetal cells showed the same pattern of surface stem cell markers as BMSCs, both type of fetal cells had lower adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation capacity than BMSCs. Fetal cells from femoral head showed higher adipogenic differentiation than fetal cells from spine. These results show that fetal cells are already differentiated cells and may be a good compromise between stem cells and adult tissue cells for a cell-based therapy.
Autologous Bone Marrow Infusion Activates the Progenitor Cell Compartment in Patients with Advanced Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Kim Ja Kyung , Park Young Nyun , Kim Jin Seok , Park Mi-Suk , Paik Yong Han , Seok Jae-Yeon , Chung Yong Eun , Kim Hyun Ok , Kim Kyung Sik , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Do Young , Kim Myeong-Jin , Lee Kwan Sik , Chon Chae Yoon , Kim Soo Jeong , Terai Shuji , Sakaida Isao , Han Kwang-Hyub
Published: December 2010

Several clinical trials of bone marrow cell infusion in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) have shown clinical improvement, despite conflicting results from animal models. We investigated serial pathological features and the clinical impact after autologous bone marrow infusion (ABMI) in patients with advanced LC. Ten patients with advanced LC due to chronic hepatitis B virus infection underwent ABMI. Serological tests, MRI, and liver biopsies were performed, and quality of life was assessed by a questionnaire. Median serum albumin and hemoglobin levels increased significantly after ABMI. All patients showed an improvement in quality of life, with no serious adverse events. Liver volume, measured by MRI, increased in 80% of the patients, and ascites decreased after ABMI. Child-Pugh scores were also significantly improved at 6 months after ABMI. In the serially biopsied livers, a gradually increasing activation of the hepatic progenitor cell (HPC) compartment, including HPC activation (ductular reaction) and HPC differentiation (intermediate hepatocyte), reached a peak after 3 months, with continued proliferation of hepatocytes, and returned to baseline levels after 6 months. There was no significant change in grade or stage of liver fibrosis or stellate cell activation after ABMI. ABMI is suggested to improve liver function and to activate the progenitor cell compartment. Although clinical improvement was sustained for more than 6 months, histological changes in the liver returned to baseline 6 months after ABMI. Further comparative studies are warranted.
Nonsenescent Hsp27-Upregulated MSCs Implantation Promotes Neuroplasticity in Stroke Model
Authors: Liu Shih-Ping , Ding Dah-Ching , Wang Hsiao-Jung , Su Ching-Yuan , Lin Shinn-Zong , Li Hung , Shyu Woei-Cherng
Published: December 2010

Cellular senescence induces changes in cellular physiology, morphology, proliferative capacity, and gene expression. Stem cell senescence might be one of the major issues of limited efficacy of stem cell transplantation. In this study, we demonstrated that implantation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) cultured in human umbilical cord serum (hUCS) significantly enhanced neuroplasticity and angiogenesis in stroke and ischemic limb models. Immunophenotypic analysis indicated that hUCMSCs cultured in hUCS had more small and rapidly self-renewing cells than those expanded in FCS. The main cause of greater senescence in FCS-cultured cells was increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Proteome profiling showed significantly more senescence-associated vimentin in FCS-cultured hUCMSCs than in hUCS-cultured hUCMSCs. In contrast, there was significant upregulation of heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) in the hUCS-cultured hUCMSCs. By gene targeting, we found that overexpression of Hsp27 may downregulate vimentin expression through inhibition of the nuclear translocation of p65 (NF-κB signaling). Thus, an interaction between Hsp27 and vimentin may modulate the degree of senescence in hUCS- and FCS-cultured hUCMSCs. In summary, hUCMSCs exhibiting senescence are detrimental to cell engraftment and differentiation in animal models via activation of NF-κB pathway. Human stem cells incubated in hUCS might reduce the senescent process through upregulation of Hsp27 to increase implantation efficiency.