bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An agent-based approach for generating virtual sewer systems
Authors: Urich C. , Sitzenfrei R. , Möderl M. , Rauch W.
Published: September 2010

The application of artificial case studies is a well established technique in urban drainage to test measures, approaches or models. However, the preparation of a virtual case study for a sewer system is a tedious task. Several algorithms have been presented in the literature for an automatic generation of virtual sewer systems. Applying the approach of generating virtual cities by means of the software VIBe (Virtual Infrastructure Benchmarking) the urban structure (including elevation map, land use and population distribution) is generated firstly and the infrastructure is designed meeting the requirements of the urban structure. The aim of this paper is the development of an agent based approach for generating virtual sewer systems. This new algorithm functions as module of the software VIBe but can of course also be applied to a real city in order to get information on possible/optimal sewer placement. Here hundred virtual VIBe cities and for each twelve virtual sewer networks are generated and calibrated based on data of an alpine region. It is revealed that with the approach presented virtual sewer networks which are comparable with real world sewer networks can be generated. The agent based method provides data sets for benchmarking and allows case independent testing of new measures.
Pathogen inactivation during passage of stormwater through a constructed reedbed and aquifer transfer, storage and recovery
Authors: Sidhu J. P. S. , Toze S. , Hodgers L. , Shackelton M. , Barry K. , Page D. , Dillon P.
Published: September 2010

A study was undertaken to determine the potential inactivation rates of selected enteric microorganisms in captured urban stormwater within a constructed reedbed and in tertiary carbonated aquifer during an Aquifer Storage, Transfer and Recovery (ASTR) scheme. The study was undertaken in-situ in the constructed reedbed and aquifer using diffusion chambers. The results showed that all tested bacteria had one log10 reduction time of less than 6 and 2.5 days respectively in constructed reedbeds and aquifer, which suggests that presence of enteric bacteria in the recovered water is unlikely. However, adenovirus and Cryptosporidium oocysts showed lower inactivation rates with one log10 reduction times of more than 33 days in the constructed reedbeds. This means that the constructed reedbed with a mean residence time 10 days cannot be relied upon as an efficient treatment barrier for virus and protozoa. Storage of stormwater in aquifer with brackish water resulted in slow inactivation of enteric viruses over the 35 day incubation period with adenovirus and rotavirus showing slowest inactivation times (extrapolated T90 of >100 days). Cryptosporidium oocysts showed similar inactivation rate in the constructed reedbed and aquifer.
Performance of Moringa oliefera as a biosorbent for chromium removal
Authors: Ghebremichael K. , Gebremedhin N. , Amy G.
Published: September 2010

This study investigated adsorption of chromium on to a bio-adsorbent, Moringa oleifera seed. Different by-products of the seed processing were used as adsorbents. These include: the Whole Seed Powder (WSP), the Residue after Coagulant Extraction (RaCE) and an Activated Carbon (AC) prepared from the seed husk. Adsorption studies for the removal of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) were carried out in batch experiments and the effects of adsorbent dosage, contact time, pH and initial chromium concentration were analysed. Experimental results showed that maximum removal of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) was observed at pH 7 and pH 2, respectively. The percentage removals of Cr(III) by WSP, RaCE and AC were: 97, 94 and 99.9%, respectively. And the percentage removals of Cr(VI) by RaCE and AC were 47 and 83.2%, respectively. RaCE showed similar adsorption capacity to the WSP, which indicates that it is possible to extract a coagulant and use the waste product for adsorption. By using the RaCE, residual dissolved organic carbon in the treated water was significantly reduced compared to using the WSP. These results indicate that biomaterials can be considered as potential adsorbents for heavy metals removal from water or wastewater systems.
Evaluation of a bench-scale membrane fouling protocol to determine fouling propensities of membranes during full-scale water reuse applications
Authors: Bellona C. L. , Wuertle A. , Xu P. , Drewes J. E.
Published: September 2010

There is increasing interest in recycling wastewater effluents for augmentation of existing water supplies. The treatment of wastewater effluents by an integrated membrane system, such as microfiltration pre-treatment followed by reverse osmosis, is the industry standard for groundwater recharge or reservoir augmentation projects. Membrane fouling, especially effluent organic matter fouling, is a major challenge for water reuse applications employing high-pressure membranes. While fouling control through pre-treatment is an important aspect in membrane system design and operation, selecting low fouling membranes is an equally important aspect. Although recent research has begun to elucidate fouling mechanisms, little work has been performed to develop methods to pre-determine the effluent organic matter fouling propensities of high-pressure membranes so that low-fouling membranes can be pre-selected for reuse applications. The purpose of this study was to utilize a bench-scale testing protocol to test the relative effluent organic matter fouling propensities of commercially available NF and RO membranes when treating wastewater effluents. Bench-scale fouling test results were then compared to operational data generated during pilot- and full-scale membrane testing. Pilot- and full-scale testing using recycled water demonstrated that membranes foul at significantly different rates and that the extent of fouling could be estimated utilizing the proposed bench-scale testing protocol.
The hybrid process TiO2/PAC: performance of membrane filtration
Authors: Ziegmann Markus , Saravia Florencia , Torres Pabla A. , Frimmel Fritz H.
Published: September 2010

In investigations concerning the photocatalytic degradation by TiO2 usually filter discs with a pore size of 0.22 μm and 0.45 μm are used for the removal of photocatalyst particles in aqueous suspensions. In this study the effective rejection of suspended particles by microfiltration in different types of membrane modules and with different membrane materials was investigated. Furthermore, Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC), which can be used to gain an increase in photocatalytic degradation rates, was investigated concerning its influence on the membrane performance. It is shown that by membrane filtration with a pore size above 0.1 μm, irrespective of the experimental conditions, no complete removal can be achieved. However, UV irradiation was found to improve the removal efficiency for all types of tested membrane materials. The addition of PAC also led to a higher performance of membrane filtration with regard to particle rejection. In long-term experiments with a hollow fibre membrane module in the presence of PAC a five-fold decrease of TiO2 particles in the permeate could be proven. Besides, it was shown that added PAC can shield the membrane regarding the abrasivity of TiO2, which could otherwise lead to the destruction of the membrane. Therewith PAC exhibits another crucial advantage besides its synergetic effect in photodegradation.
Manganese waste water treatment by fungi derived from manganese slag
Authors: Ou-yang Yu-Zhu , Cao Jian-Bing , Li Xiao-Ming , Zheng Wei , Wang Dong-Bo , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to isolate a mould from the surface of manganese slag which had strong resistance and high adsorption of Mn2 + , and to determine the effects of initial Mn2 +  concentration, incubation temperature, rotation speed and inoculation amount on adsorption of Mn2 +  from manganese waste water solution. The result showed that a mould (A5) which was isolated from manganese slag had the adsorption rate of Mn2 +  to 97.5% at the initial pH value 6, inoculation amount 2%, rotation speed 150 r/min, a concentration of Mn2 +  500 mg/L, and a temperature of 28°C cultivated for 50 h. As there is no research on adsorption of Mn2 +  from manganese waste water by fungi before, this research showed a theoretical guidance on this field.
Patient-Specific Unicompartmental Knee Resurfacing Arthroplasty: Use of a Novel Interference Lock to Reduce Tibial Insert Micromotion and Backside Wear
Authors: Steklov Nick , Chao Nam , Srivastav Sudesh
Published: September 2010

Micromotion has long been associated with wear of polyethylene tibial inserts, potentially causing failure of unicompartmental knee replacement systems. One cause of micromotion is the locking mechanism between the undersurface of the polyethylene and the tibial tray. The objective of this study was to investigate the use of new novel lock designs for reducing the micromotion associated with a patient specific tibial implant. Micromotion occurring between the tibial insert and tibial tray was measured using the DVRT method for two new lock designs and compared to the micromotion measured for the prior generation lock design. In total, 18 samples were tested, six in each of the three designs: prior generation CLEARANCE lock design, new LINE-TO-LINE design, new INTERFERENCE design.

At the lowest loading of 100N, the motion index of the new interference lock design (4.9 ±2.6 microns) was less than the motion index of both the new line-to-line lock design (11.9±4.5 microns) and the prior generation clearance lock design (154.9±84.4 microns). Likewise, at the higher loading of 400N, the motion index of the new interference lock design (58.7 ±7.2 microns) was again less than the motion index of the two alternative lock designs (new line-to-line: 135.5±57.6 microns; prior generation clearance: 371.8±151.4 microns). When compared to previously published micromotion data for TKR systems, the results demonstrate that a novel interference design locking mechanism as part of a patient-specific unicompartmental knee arthroplasty system can significantly reduce micromotion that is believed to be one of the causes of osteolysis.
Salivary Markers for Oral Cancer Detection
Authors: Markopoulos Anastasios K. , Michailidou Evangelia Z. , Tzimagiorgis Georgios
Published: September 2010

Oral cancer refers to all malignancies that arise in the oral cavity, lips and pharynx, with 90% of all oral cancers being oral squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the recent treatment advances, oral cancer is reported as having one of the highest mortality ratios amongst other malignancies and this can much be attributed to the late diagnosis of the disease. Saliva has long been tested as a valuable tool for drug monitoring and the diagnosis systemic diseases among which oral cancer. The new emerging technologies in molecular biology have enabled the discovery of new molecular markers (DNA, RNA and protein markers) for oral cancer diagnosis and surveillance which are discussed in the current review.
Analysis of Dentistsâ€™ Participation in Continuing Professional Development Courses from 2001-2006
Authors: Abbott Paul , Burgess Kate , Wang Eric , Kim Kang
Published: September 2010

Currently in Western Australia (WA) there is no requirement for dentists to participate in continuing professional development (CPD). The aim of this study was to determine the participation pattern of dentists in WA in CPD activities. Data was collated regarding registrants for courses conducted by the University Continuing Dental Education Committee. Information concerned number of courses attended by each dentist, location of work and year of graduation from university. Details of subject, length and type of courses conducted were also gathered. Most courses were half to one day in duration with many subjects covered. Between 10.1-24.4% of dentists registered in WA attended at least one course each year. Low numbers of recently graduated and older dentists attended courses. Similar percentages of metropolitan and rural dentists attended courses. Participation in CPD activities of dentists in WA was low. Half day or evening courses appear to be favoured by dentists.
UV radiation and the reaction between ammonium and thiocyanate under prebiotic chemistry conditions
Authors: de Santana , Pelisson Leidimara , Janiaski Diogo , Zaia Cássia , Zaia Dimas
Published: September 2010

The reaction between ammonium and thiocyanate under prebiotic chemistry
conditions was studied using FT-IR spectroscopy. Ammonium thiocyanate (1.0
10-3 mol L-1) was dissolved in sodium chloride solution (28.57 g L-1) at two
different pH values (5.30 and 7.20). FT-IR results showed that it was
possible that some compound that resembles dithiooxamides was synthesized
when samples of ammonium thiocyanate were exposed to UV radiation under a
regular atmosphere, as UV radiation in the presence of oxygen leads to the
formation of perchlorate ions (ClO4-) due to the presence of Cl- ions as
well. After acid hydrolysis of the samples of ammonium thiocyanate irradiated
under a nitrogen atmosphere, yellow and white compounds were obtained, which
could not be identified. These results were different from those reported in
the literature, where other authors found methionine. However, they used
higher concentrations of ammonium thiocyanate and a different type of UV
lamp. On the other hand, in the present study, a lower concentration of
ammonium thiocyanate was used, which probably resembled more the
concentration of ammonium thiocyanate of primitive earth.
Changing trends in Uropathogens and their Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern
Authors: Saleh Ahmed Abu , Ahmed Syed Shaukat , Ahmed Moniruzzaman , Sattar Abu Naser Ibne , Miah Md Ruhul Amin
Published: September 2010

In order to monitor changes in the etiologic bacterial agents and as well as antimicrobial resistance of urinary pathogens between five years period and over several years, urinary culture and sensitivity result of patients attending the outpatient departments of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in 2003 and in 2008 were analyzed retrospectively. In 2003 and 2008, 668 and 715 cultures respectively were reviewed. The frequency of Escherichia coli dropped significantly in the outpatient clinics from 60.02% to 51.75%. The frequency of Klebsiella spp increased considerably. The frequency of Enterobacter spp. Enterococci spp and Acenatobacter collectively increased from 25.15 to 31.04 (p<0.0001). A significant rise in the resistance of Escherichia coli to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin (p<0.0001) was documented. Urinary pathogens also demonstrated increased resistance to Nalidixic acid and Cefotaxime. In contrast Amoxycillin, Cephradine (p<0.0001), Cotrimoxazole (p<0.0001), Mecilinam (p<0.0001), Ceftriaxone (p<0.0001). Nitrofurantoin, Ceftazidime, Cefuroxime, Amikacin and Netilmicin showed consistent sensitivity. Ciprofloxacin showed increase in resistance against Enterococci and Klebsiella. The changing etiologic agents of urinary tractinfections and the increasing resistance of organisms clearly dictate regular monitoring and modification of empirical therapy are required.Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 9-12
Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of uropathogens in children
Authors: Sharmin Sohey , Alamgir Farhana , Fahmida M , Saleh Ahmed Abu
Published: September 2010

Total 60 mid stream urine samples were collected from suspected urinary tract infection patients of 1 to 12 years age from indoor and outdoor of BSMMU. A total 28 (46.66%) cultures yielded significant growth of single organism & 32 (53.33%) yielded no growth. E. coli was isolated in 53.57% cases, followed by 17.86% Klebsiella spp, 10.71% Enterococcus spp, 7.14% Enterobacter spp, 7.14% Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 3.5% Proteus mirabilis. E. coli was less sensitive to first line drugs including Amoxycillin, Cotrimoxazole, Cephradin, Nalidexic acid ranging (20-27%), but moderately sensitive to Ciprofloxacin (60%), Gentamicin (60%), Ceftriaxone (60%) and highly sensitive to Ceftazidime (80%) and Imipenem (100%). Klebsiella & Enterobacter spp were 100% sensitive to Imipenem and 70% to Amikacin. Enterococci spp shows good sensitivity to Nitrofurantoin (67%), and Imipenem (100%). Pseudomonas spp was highly sensitive to Imipenem and Netilmicin (100%).Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 18-22
Detection of LD body in Peripheral Blood Buffy-coat from Suspected Kala-azar Cases of Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Chandra Kumar , Sariullah Sofia Andalib , Saleh Ahmed Abu , Miah Md Ruhul Amin
Published: September 2010

The present study has been carried out in an attempt to observe the usefulness of peripheral blood buffy-coat microscopic examination for detection of LD-body from clinically suspected Kala-azar cases. Total 127 individuals are included in this study as cases and controls. Among them 67 are clinically suspected Kala-azar cases included from one of the Kala-azar endemic areas of Bangladesh and 60 are taken as endemic and nonendemic healthy controls. Peripheral venous blood and bone marrow aspirate collected and tested for LD bodies from clinically suspected Kala-azar cases in Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, during the period of July 2006 to June 2007. Serum from all cases and controls were tested by rK39 ICT for serological identification of visceral leishmaniasis. Laboratory examinations were performed in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, BSMMU, Dhaka. Out of 67 study cases bone marrow smear microscopy for LD bodies positive in 44 (66.67%) and buffy-coat smear microscopy positive for 21 (31.34%); diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of buffy-coat smear microscopy was 47.72% and 100% in comparison with bone marrow examinations. Buffy-coat smear made form the 23 splenomegalic patients, microscopy revealed significant number 17 (73.91%) of the cases were positive for LD-body and all of the four hepato-splenomegalic patients were positive (p-value >0.05, reached from 2 test). Results of rK39 ICT for detection of visceral leishmaniasis cases show 100% sensitivity and 90% specificity. Peripheral blood buffy coat examination for LD body in splenomegalic cases of Kala-azar may replace bone marrow examinations.Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 27-32
Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Limonoids from the Seeds of Swietenia mahagony
Authors: Kader Md Abdul , Haque Md Ekramul , Khondkar Proma , Islam Md Monirul , Rahman M Mukhlesur
Published: September 2010

Two limonoids, swietenine (1) and 3-O-tigloylswietenolide (2), were isolated from the chloroform soluble fraction of an ethanolic extract of Swietenia mahagony seed. The structures of these compounds were confirmed by spectroscopic methods, including both 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The chloroform extract and the limonoids (1 and 2) exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against a series of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 1 and 2 were found to be in the range of 32-64 μg/ml against Bacillus megatorium and Escherichia coli. Compounds 1 and 2 were also assessed for preliminary cytotoxicity against brine shrimp and the LC50 values were found to be 14.6 and 12.5 μg/ml, respectively. Key words: Swietenia mahagony; Meliaceae; Limonoids; Swietenine; 3-tigloylswietenolide; Antibacterial activity; Cytotoxicity. DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6028 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 141-145, 2009 (December)
Effect of Different Carbon Sources on the Extra-cellular Polysaccharide Production by Tremella cinnabarina in Submerged Culture
Authors: Khondkar Proma
Published: September 2010

The effect of fatty acids, emulsifiers and plant oils were studied with respect to their potential to support the growth and extra-cellular polysaccharide production of Tremella cinnabarina in submerged culture. The extra-cellular polysaccharide (EPS) production and mycelial growth were substantially increased by supplementation with certain fatty acids in the medium. Oleic acid, sorbitan mono-oleate and grape-seed oil significantly enhanced EPS production which were 1.5, 1.6 and 1.3 folds, respectively, in comparison to the control. In case of lipids, the results indicated that the extent of stimulation or inhibition was associated with the types and levels of lipids. However, when lipids were used as sole carbon source, poor growth and lack of EPS production were observed. Key words: T. cinnabarina; extra-cellular polysaccharide; emulsifier; fatty acids DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6029 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 147-152, 2009 (December)
Preparation and Evaluation of In Vitro Release Kinetics of Theophylline Loaded Matrix Tablet Based on Eudragit NE 30 D and Eudragit RS 30 D
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Borhan , Chowdhury Jakir Ahmed , Azam Kazi Rashidul , Jalil Reza-ul , Reza Md Selim
Published: September 2010

In the present study efficiency of Eudragit NE 30 D and RS 30 D as matrix forming materials was investigated. It was found that theophylline loaded granules prepared with these two polymers could not sustain drug release for a significant period of time. However, compression of these granules into tablets retarded drug release for up to 7 hours. Release was similar with both of the polymers. Effects of fillers and rate modifiers on drug release have been assessed. Incorporation of lactose and starch caused substantial release of theophylline from both the polymeric systems. Avicel PH 101 intensified the retardation effect of both NE 30 D and RS 30 D on theophylline release. Hydrophobic excipients also show retardation of release from both NE 30 D and RS 30 D. Key words: Eudragit RS 30 D; Eudragit NE 30 D; Theophylline; Matrix system; Controlled release DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6030 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 153-159, 2009 (December)
Formulation and Evaluation of Fexofenadine Mouth Dissolving Tablet
Authors: Solanki Shailendra Singh , Dahima Rashmi
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6032 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 167-170, 2009 (December)
Phytochemical Studies on the Leaves of Xylia dolabriformis
Authors: Tareq Fakir Shahidullah , Sohrab Md Hossain , Chowdhury AM Sarwar Uddin , Afroz Farhana , Al-Mansur M , Hasan Choudhury M
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6033 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 171-172, 2009 (December)
Total Phenolic Content, Free Radical Scavenging Activity and Reducing Power of Quisqualis indica Linn.
Authors: Kaisar Md Abul , Islam Mohammad Rashedul , Rahman Mohammad Sarifur , Hossain Md Khalid , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6034 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 173-175, 2009 (December)
A COMPARATIVE HISTORIOGRAPHY OF THE HUNGARIAN AND SLOVAKIAN NATIONAL PHILOSOPHIES: A CENTRAL EUROPEAN CASE
Authors: Mester Béla
Published: September 2010

The paper analyses a well‐known phenomenon, that of the 19th century Central European so‐called “national philosophies”. However, the philosophical heritages of the Central European countries have their roles in the national identities; historians of philosophy in these countries know; our philosophies have common institutional roots with our neighbours. The paper deadlines paradigmatic problems from the Hungarian and Slovakian philosophy: the Latin language in philosophy, the different role of Kantianism and Hegelianism in the national cultures, and the problems of canonisation.

Vengrų ir slovakų nacionalinių filosofijų komparatyvistinė istoriografija: Vidurio Europos atvejis

Santrauka

Straipsnyje tyrinėjamas gerai žinomas fenomenas, XIX a. Vidurio Europoje vadinamas „nacionalinėmis filosofijomis“. Kad ir kaip būtų, filosofiniai Vidurio Europos valstybių palikimai turi įtakos nacionaliniams tapatumams, ir tai žino šių valstybių filosofijos istorikai. Mūsų ir mūsų kaimynų filosofijos turi bendrąsias paprotines šaknis. Straipsnyje brėžiama paradigminių vengrų ir slovakų filosofijos problemų perskyra pagal lotynų kalbą filosofijoje, skirtingą kantizmo ir hėgelizmo vaidmenį tautinėse kultūrose bei kanonizacijos problemas. Reikšminiai žodžiai: kanonizacija, Vidurio Europos filosofijos, hėgelizmas, vengrų filosofija, kantizmas, lotynų kalba filosofijoje, tautinis tapatumas, „nacionalinės filosofijos“, slovakų filosofija.
TOLERANCE BOUNDARIES AND CULTURAL EGALITARIANISM
Authors: Kanišauskas Saulius
Published: September 2010

The significance of formal criteria which could help to sort out the problem of tolerance paradox has emerged in the background of cultural egalitarianism. Alas, such criteria have not been established so far. The conviction that the problem of tolerance is significant just in the context of social and political discourse might be questioned due to the fact that this attitude did not help to tackle this problem throughout the last centuries. The paper aims to show that the problem of tolerance can be solved taking into account systemic attitude and synergetic insights. The current study into the literature on tolerance concludes that the formal criterion, which defines the tolerance boundaries in the most general sense, is considered to be such deviations from the standard (as ideal parameters of social system) when tolerance can function normally (stably). Cultural egalitarianism, which requires equalizing the rights of the majority and the minorities facing discrimination, impinges on the ratio of necessary diversity, and thus has to be questioned.

Tolerancijos ribos ir kultūrinis egalitarizmas

Santrauka

Formaliu kriteriju, kurie leistu spresti tolerancijos paradokso problema, svarba išryškejo kulturinio egalitarizmo akivaizdoje. Tokiu kriteriju nera iki šiol. Isitikinimas, kad tolerancijos problema prasminga tik socialinio ir politinio diskurso kontekste, gali buti kvestionuojamas vien todel, kad per kelis šimtmecius ši nuostata problemos išspresti nepadejo. Straipsnyje parodoma, kad tolerancijos problema galima spresti sisteminiu požiuriu ir sociosinergetikos ižvalgomis. Tolerancijai skirtos literaturos analize leidžia daryti išvada, kad bendriausiu atveju tolerancijos ribas nustatanciu formaliu kriterijumi galima laikyti tokius nukrypimus nuo normos (kaip idealiu visuomenines sistemos parametru), kuriems esant ji dar gali normaliai (stabiliai) funkcionuoti. Kulturinis egalitarizmas, reikalaujantis sulyginti daugumos ir diskriminuojamu mažumu teises, pažeidžia butinos ivairoves proporcijas ir todel yra kvestionuotinas.
Mortality from Influenza A/H1N1 in a tertiary care teaching institution in North India
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Verma Pushpendra Kumar , Gupta Sushan , Sharma Alka
Published: September 2010

Background: The recent influenza A/H1N1 pandemic has caused considerable morbidity and some mortality and is therefore a severe threat to certain individuals. Up to 31 January 2010, there had been 1,229 confirmed deaths from Influenza A/H1N1 in India. Methodology: This study was a retrospective analysis of deaths caused by RT-PCR-confirmed cases of Influenza A/H1N1 in a tertiary care institution in North India from September 2009 until January 2010. Results: Among 125 patients admitted to the Influenza A/H1N1 ward of the hospital, a total of 16 deaths had occurred in patients who were positive for Influenza A/H1N1. Two deaths were in the paediatric age group. Most patients who died had some predisposing illness, such as pregnancy, underlying chronic respiratory illness, diabetes, obesity, etc. Conclusions: In the present study, deaths from Influenza A/H1N1, as with seasonal influenza, appeared to occur primarily in individuals with underlying illness. In India, such individuals may be considered first for preventive strategies, including vaccination.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of bacteraemic melioidosis in a teaching hospital in a northeastern state of Malaysia: a five-year review
Authors: Deris Zakuan Zainy , Hasan Habsah , Siti Suraiya Mohd Noor
Published: September 2010

Background: Melioidosis is an important public health problem causing community acquired sepsis in the northeastern part of Malaysia. Methodology: From January 2001 to December 2005, we reviewed case reports of all bacteraemic melioidosis admitted to a tertiary teaching hospital, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Results: Thirty-five patients had positive blood culture for meliodosis and 27 case reports were traceable for further analysis. The mean age was 46.8 + 20.0 years. Twenty patients (74.1%) were male. The main clinical presentation was fever that occurred in 23 (85.2%) patients. Eighteen patients (66.7%) had lung involvement and three patients had liver abscess. Two patients presented with scrotal swelling, one of whom further developed Fournier's Gangrene. Nineteen (70.4%) patients had underlying diabetes, five of whom were newly diagnosed during the admission. Thirteen (48.1%) patients were treated with high-dose ceftazidime and six (22.2%) patients were treated with imipenem. Eight (29.6%) patients were not given anti-melioidosis therapy because the causative agents were not identified until after the patients died. The patients were admitted 16.8 days + 18.1. Seventeen patients (63.0%) died in this series, 13 patients of whom died within four days of admission. Conclusions: The wide range of clinical presentations and the fatal outcomes of melioidosis require a high level of suspicion among physicians to develop an early appropriate therapy and reduce the mortality rate.
Acute acalculus cholecystitis and hepatitis caused by Brucella melitensis
Authors: AL-Otaibi Fawzia Eida
Published: September 2010

Acute cholecystitis is a very rare presentation of brucellosis. A case of acalculous cholecystitis caused by Brucella melitensis is reported with a review of previously reported cases.
Bacterial contamination of stethoscopes used by health workers: public health implications
Authors: Uneke Chigozie Jesse , Ogbonna Annayo , Oyibo Patrick G , Onu Christian M
Published: September 2010

Background: This study was designed to assess both the potential for bacterial transmission by stethoscopes used by health-care workers in Nigeria and the implications for patient safety and control of hospital-acquired infections. Methodology:  A structured questionnaire was administered to health workers and the surface of the diaphragm of their stethoscopes swabbed for bacteriological analysis using standard techniques. Results and Conclusions: Of the 107 stethoscopes surveyed, 84 (79%) were contaminated with bacteria; 59 (81%) of the contaminated stethoscopes belonged to physicians and 25 (74%) were from other health workers.  Isolates included Staphylococcus aureus (54%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (19%), Enterococcus faecalis (14%), and Escherichia coli (13%). All stethoscopes that had never been cleaned were contaminated while lower levels of contamination were found on those cleaned one week or less before the survey (χ2 = 22.4, P < .05).  Contamination was significantly higher on stethoscopes cleaned with only water (100%) compared to those cleaned with alcohol (49%) (χ2 = 30.17, P < .05). Significantly fewer (9%) stethoscopes from health workers who washed their hands after seeing each patient were contaminated when compared with the instruments (86%) of those who did not practice hand washing (χ2 = 23.79, P < .05).  E. coli showed the highest antibiotic resistance, while S. aureus showed the highest antibiotic susceptibility.   Strict adherence to stethoscope disinfection practices by health workers can minimize cross-contamination and ensure improved patient safety in hospital environments.
Soft tissue infection due to Mycobacterium fortuitum following acupuncture: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Guevara-Patiño Armando , Sandoval de Mora Marisol , Farreras Aileen , Rivera-Olivero Ismar , Fermin Danibeth , De Waard Jacobus H.
Published: September 2010

We report the first case of a post-acupuncture soft tissue infection due to Mycobacterium fortuitum. Two months after finishing an acupuncture treatment session, an immunocompetent 23-year-old woman developed cellulitis at the side of the needle insertions and the acid-fast bacillus was isolated from a closed abscess. The patient was successfully treated with a proper drug combination. We review the literature concerning the infection source and the risks for skin and soft tissue infection due to mycobacteria after acupuncture. The infection source in most cases is unknown but is probably associated with the inadequate sterilization of the needles or the puncture site. We show that these infections are not rare but difficult to diagnose. To avoid delays in the definitive diagnosis, infection with mycobacteria should be considered for skin and soft tissue infections, in particular late-onset infections, which are negative for routine bacterial cultures and without a clinical response to antibiotics used for acute pyogenic infections. Bacterial cultures from this lesion should be maintained for at least six weeks before discharged as negative.
Detection of Aspergillus species in bone marrow transplant patients
Authors: Badiee Parisa , Alborzi Abdolvahab
Published: September 2010

Introduction:  Invasive aspergillosis is a severe complication of cytotoxic chemotherapies and bone marrow transplantation (BMT). The aim of this study was to assess the utility of a real-time PCR assay for the early diagnosis of Aspergillus species in blood samples from BMT patients. Methodology: Blood specimens (n = 993) from patients (n = 82) scheduled for BMT were collected prior to transplant and for 100 days post transplantation.  The specimens were later tested using an Aspergillus-specific real-time PCR assay. Cultures of clinical samples, along with sonography and computerized tomographic scans, were performed as standard of care. Results: Aspergillus DNA was positive in 94 sequential blood samples from 13 patients with clinical and radiological signs of infection. Samples from three of these patients were PCR-positive for Aspergillus in the first week of admission, prior to transplantation. Four patients with aspergillosis were cured with antifungal agents and nine died. An additional 12 patients without clinical signs of infection were PCR-positive on one occasion each, while two patients with clinical signs of infection were PCR-negative. Compared to routine methods of aspergillosis diagnosis, the respective sensitivity, specificity, negative, and positive predictive values of the PCR method by patient were 86.6%, 82%, 96.5% and 52%. Conclusions: The results show that Aspergillus infections in the blood of bone marrow transplant patients can be dectected by PCR methods. Early detection of Aspergillus infections by PCR has the potential to positively impact patient mortality rate and provide cost savings to hospitals.
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in a dengue-endemic region: lessons for the future
Authors: Ali Farheen , Saleem Taimur , Khalid Umair , Mehmood Syed Faisal , Jamil Bushra
Published: September 2010

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever are endemic in Pakistan. However, the overlap of geographic distribution and early clinical features between the two conditions make a reliable diagnosis difficult in the initial stage of illness. A 16-year-old boy presented with a history of hematemesis and high-grade fever. A preliminary diagnosis of dengue hemorrhagic fever was made and supportive treatment was instituted; however, the patient continued to deteriorate clinically. Dengue IgM antibody testing was negative on the third day of admission. Qualitative polymerase chain reaction test for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever viral RNA was sent but the patient expired shortly after the results became available on the sixth day of admission. Considerable resources had to be expended on contact tracing and administration of ribavirin prophylaxis to all the health-care workers who had come in contact with the patient. It is crucial that Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever be recognized and treated at an early stage because of longer term financial and health implications for contacts such as health-care workers in the setting of a developing country. Increased surveillance of dengue and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever cases is warranted for the derivation of reasonably reliable, cost-effective and prompt predictors of disease diagnosis. These predictors can help guide future decisions in the management of similar cases. Ultimately, such a strategy may translate into better cost containment in resource-poor settings. Institution of ribavirin prophylaxis in selected patients also merits consideration.
Prevalence of microorganisms of hygienic interest in an organized abattoir in Mumbai, India
Authors: Bhandare Sudhakar Ganpati , Paturkar Ashish M , Waskar Vikas S , Zende Ravindra J
Published: September 2010

Background: The magnitude of food-borne illnesses in India is unknown because of lack of surveillance networks. Monitoring the prevalence of food-borne pathogens and indicators of contamination in primary production at abattoirs is imperative for creating a data bank and for effective control of such pathogens before they enter the food chain. Methodology: Microorganisms of hygienic interest were screened for their prevalence at Deonar Abattoir, Mumbai. Swab samples from 96 sheep/goat carcass sites were collected and analyzed for Staphylococcus spp., Bacillaceae, Clostridiaceae and Enterobacteriaceae. Results: Average Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis counts were 3.15 ± 0.18 and 3.46 ± 0.17 log10 CFU/cm2, respectively. Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis and Clostridium spp. counts were 3.10 ± 0.08, 3.41 ± 0.19 and 0.76 ± 0.06 log10 CFU/cm2, respectively. The Escherichia coli count was 3.54 ± 0.06 and the Klebsiella aerogenes count was 3.22 ± 0.22 log10 CFU/cm2. Counts for Proteus vulgaris and Proteus mirabilis were 3.44 ± 0.14 log10 CFU/cm2 and 3.71 ± 0.12 log10 CFU/cm2, respectively. S. epidermidis had the highest percentage prevalence at (41.6%), followed by K. aerogenes (31.9%), B. subtilis (28.2%) and P. vulgaris (23.6%). Salmonella spp. were not isolated. Conclusions: The data demonstrate high prevalence and diversity of micro flora on carcasses in the primary Indian production facility, which might be attributed to either human handling or improper dressing especially during evisceration process. Appropriate training for personal and production hygiene is essential for workers in Indian meat production facilities.
Assessment 100% Supported by ICT: Possibilities Offered and Risks
Authors: Teherán Sermeño Plinio Del Carmen , Almanza Montero Ovidio Amado , Mendoza Henry
Published: September 2010

After the launching of a Fundamentals of Physics course offered for different campuses of the National University of Colombia in blended learning mode, various experiences were collected in a virtual assessment that were supported 100% by ICT. We implemented an evaluation system that consists of different categories ranging from traditional examinations, partial examinations, final examinations, workshops, quizzes, attendance, and duties and forums, all evaluated online. In particular, random blocks of questions were used for examinations taken from large databases, built especially for this purpose, on the order of 100 per chapter. We comment on the results achieved with the implementation of the evaluation system proposed, in addition to the possibilities offered and the risks they present.
A Formative Assessment Tool for Conceptual Database Design Using UML Class Diagram
Authors: Soler Josep , Boada Imma , Prados Ferran , Poch Jordi , Fabregat Ramon
Published: September 2010

Database design is one of the main topics of any introductory database course. Traditionally, for teaching it entity-relationship diagrams (ERD) are used. However, in the last years, Unified Modeling Language (UML) has emerged as an effective modeling tool for database design. In this paper we present a web-based tool designed to give support to teaching and learning conceptual database design using UML class diagrams. The proposed UML environment is an effective tool for formative assessment since it is capable of correcting automatically UML class diagrams exercises providing immediate feedback to the student. The tool is part of a more general framework, denoted ACME, which provides the main functionalities of an e-learning platform. The tool has been used in a first experimental group of an introductory database course
Daytime ozone and temperature variations in the mesosphere: a comparison between SABER observations and HAMMONIA model
Authors: Dikty S. , Schmidt H. , Weber M. , von Savigny C. , Mlynczak M. G.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. This paper investigates the latest version 1.07 SABER (Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry) tropical ozone from the 1.27 μm as well as from the 9.6 μm retrieval and temperature data with respect to day time variations in the upper mesosphere. The processes involved are compared to day time variations of the three-dimensional general circulation and chemistry model HAMMONIA (Hamburg Model of the Neutral and Ionized Atmosphere). The results show a good qualitative agreement for ozone. The amplitude of daytime variations is in both cases approximately 60% of the daytime mean. During equinox the daytime maximum ozone abundance is for both, the observations and the model, higher than during solstice, especially above 0.01 hPa (approx. 80 km). The influence of tidal signatures either directly in ozone or indirectly via a temperature response above 0.01 hPa can not be fully eliminated. Below 0.01 hPa (photo-)chemistry is the main driver for variations. We also use the HAMMONIA output of daytime variation patterns of several other different trace gas species, e.g., water vapor and atomic oxygen, to discuss the daytime pattern in ozone. In contrast to ozone, temperature data show little daytime variations between 65 and 90 km and their amplitudes are on the order of less than 1.5%. In addition, SABER and HAMMONIA temperatures show significant differences above 80 km.
Impacts of volatilisation on light scattering and filter-based absorption measurements: a case study
Authors: Backman J. , Virkkula A. , Petäjä T. , Aurela M. , Frey A. , Hillamo R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Aerosol light absorption measurements most commonly rely on filter-based techniques. These methods are influenced by light scattering constituents in the aerosol phase deposited on the filters. The coating of soot by non-absorbing constituents changes the mixing state of soot as the aerosol ages and increase light absorption by the aerosol. Most light scattering constituents in a sub-micron aerosol are volatile by their nature due to their chemical composition and can be volatilized by heating the sample air. The initial mixing state is lost but the remaining light absorption by the aerosol should be by non-coated soot alone. This was studied during a short field campaign with two groups of equipment measuring in parallel for six days in April 2009 at the SMEAR III station in Helsinki. When heated, the light scattering constituents were evaporated thus reducing the single-scattering albedo (ω0) of the aerosol by as much as 0.4. An oven was set to scan different temperatures which revealed the volatility of the urban aerosol at different temperatures as well as the single-scattering albedo's dependence on the non-volatile volume fraction remaining (NVFR). The NVFR was 0.72 ± 0.13, 0.42 ± 0.06 and 0.22 ± 0.05 at 50, 150 and 280 °C respectively. ω0 behaved analogically, it was 0.71 ± 0.05, 0.62 ± 0.06 and 0.42 ± 0.07 at the respective temperatures. We found that absorption coefficients measured at different temperatures showed a temperature dependency possibly indicating initially different mixing states of the non-volatile constituents. By heating the aerosol the mode of the size distribution gets shifted to smaller sizes which in turn changes the filter-based instrument's response due increased penetration depth into the filter by the smaller residual particles. This was compensated for by using size distribution data.
An evaluation of ocean color model estimates of marine primary productivity in coastal and pelagic regions across the globe
Authors: Saba V. S. , Friedrichs M. A. M. , Antoine D. , Armstrong R. A. , Asanuma I. , Behrenfeld M. J. , Ciotti A. M. , Dowell M. , Hoepffner N. , Hyde K. J. W. , Ishizaka J. , Kameda T. , Marra J. , Mélin F. , Morel A. , O'Reilly J. , Scardi M. , Smith Jr. W. O. , Smyth T. J. , Tang S. , Uitz J. , Waters K. , Westberry T. K.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Nearly half of the earth's photosynthetically fixed carbon derives from the oceans. To determine global and region specific rates, we rely on models that estimate marine net primary productivity (NPP) thus it is essential that these models are evaluated to determine their accuracy. Here we assessed the skill of 21 ocean color models by comparing their estimates of depth-integrated NPP to 1156 in situ 14C measurements encompassing ten marine regions including the Sargasso Sea, pelagic North Atlantic, coastal Northeast Atlantic, Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Arabian Sea, subtropical North Pacific, Ross Sea, West Antarctic Peninsula, and the Antarctic Polar Frontal Zone. Average model skill, as determined by root-mean square difference calculations, was lowest in the Black and Mediterranean Seas, highest in the pelagic North Atlantic and the Antarctic Polar Frontal Zone, and intermediate in the other six regions. The maximum fraction of model skill that may be attributable to uncertainties in both the input variables and in situ NPP measurements, was nearly 72%. Contrary to prior studies, ocean color models were not highly challenged in extreme conditions of surface chlorophyll-a and sea surface temperature, nor in high-nitrate low-chlorophyll waters. On average, the simplest depth/wavelength integrated models performed no worse than the more complex depth/wavelength resolved models. Water column depth (distance to coastlines) was the primary influence on ocean color model performance such that average skill was significantly higher at depths greater than 250 m, suggesting that ocean color models are more challenged in Case-2 waters (coastal) than in Case-1 (pelagic) waters. Given that in situ chlorophyll-a data was used as input data, algorithm improvement is required to eliminate the poor performance of ocean color models in Case-2 waters that are close to coastlines. Finally, ocean color chlorophyll-a algorithms are challenged by optically complex Case-2 waters, thus using satellite-derived chlorophyll-a to estimate NPP in coastal areas would likely further reduce the skill of ocean color models.
A shift in the spatial pattern of Iberian droughts during the 17th century
Authors: Domínguez-Castro F. , García-Herrera R. , Ribera P. , Barriendos M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. In this paper, series of drought occurrence and drought extension in the Iberian Peninsula are constructed for the 1600–1750 period from seven rogation series. These rogation ceremony records come from Bilbao, Catalonia, Zamora, Zaragoza, Toledo, Murcia and Seville. They are distributed across the Peninsula and include the areas with the most characteristic Iberian climate types, influenced by the Atlantic and the Mediterranean conditions, described from modern data. A seasonal division of the series shows that spring is a critical season for rogation series in most of Iberia, being Bilbao the only site were the highest number of rogations is detected for a different season. The annual analysis of the series shows a dramatic difference between the first half of the 17th century when droughts are characterized by its local character; and the rest of the period, when they affect to broader regions or even to the whole Peninsula. The analysis of spring series confirms the existence of the two periods detected in the annual analysis. Finally, secondary documentary sources are used to further characterise the two most extended droughts in the period, 1664 and 1680, and to verify the extension of the areas affected by droughts recorded through rogation series.