bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for stimulation of new bone formation: a critical review
Authors: Peres Juliana Alves , Lamano Teresa
Published: December 2011

Large bone defects, congenital or caused by diseases, trauma or surgery, do not heal spontaneously and are usually a clinical challenge in the orthopedic and dental practices. A critical review concerning strategies to substitute lost bone or stimulate osteogenesis was undertaken. Pivotal concepts ranging from traditional bone grafting and use of biomaterials to local application of growth factors and gene therapy were addressed, including critical comments on the efficacy and safety, difficulties, advantages and disadvantages of each method. The most predictable results are still obtained with autogenous bone graft, despite the inconveniences of morbidity and limited availability of graft material. Satisfactory results have been reported for recombinant bone morphogenetic proteins (rhBMPs)-2 and -7, which distinguish for their osteoinductive property, the difficulty being the need for a degradable carrier that allows its continuous release in a rate compatible to that of new bone formation. Other bone growth factors are currently under evaluation in preclinical models of bone defects; however their efficacy is also dependent on the competence of a delivery strategy and on an appropriate delineation of “which one”, “which dose” and “when”. Parameters of efficiency and safety for gene therapy are still being established. In conclusion, given the variety of growth factors involved in the complex cascade of bone repair and the biological interactions between them, it remains a challenge to accomplish the ideal strategy to stimulate reparational bone formation in specific conditions of the medical as in the dental practices.
Regional bond strengths to root canal dentin of fiber posts luted with three cementation systems
Authors: Gomes Giovana Mongruel , Gomes Osnara Maria Mongruel , Reis Alessandra , Gomes João Carlos , Loguercio Alessandro Dourado , Calixto Abraham Lincoln
Published: December 2011

This study evaluated the influence of the cementation system on the regional push-out bond strength and failure pattern of fiber posts to radicular dentin. The roots of 48 extracted human incisors were prepared and divided into 3 groups (n=16), according to the cementation system: AdperScotchbond Multi-Purpose + resin cement RelyX ARC (SBMP+ARC); Adper SingleBond 2 + RelyX ARC (SB+ARC) and; RelyX U100 self-adhesive resin cement (U100). The posts were cemented as per manufacturer’s instructions for each cementation system. After 1 week, the roots were sectioned transversely into 6 discs. Two discs were obtained from the cervical, middle and apical thirds and the push-out test was carried out. The failure pattern was examined on all debonded specimens. The data were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey’s test. When U100 was used, no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) was observed among the different root regions. Statistically higher push-out bond strength values were detected in the cervical third for SBMP+ARC and SB+ARC (p<0.05). The U100 showed significantly more mixed failures than SBMP+ARC in the apical third (p<0.05). In conclusion, the self-adhesive cement RelyX U100 was the only cement not sensitive to the root canal region.
Removal of oral lichen planus by CO2 laser
Authors: Magalhaes-Junior Edival Barreto de , Aciole Gilberth Tadeu , Santos Nicole Ribeiro Silva , Santos Jean Nunes dos , Pinheiro Antonio Luiz Barbosa
Published: December 2011

The aim of this case report is to present a histologically diagnosed oral lichen planus excised by the CO2 laser. Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease of unknown etiology. Different treatments have been used to manage this condition. A 46 year-old female was referred to the Laser Clinic of the Dental School of the Federal University of Bahia to excise a lesion characterized by white patches on the oral mucosa, which was causing pain and burning sensation and had not respond to treatment with triamcinolone and corticosteroids for 3 months. CO2 laser was used to remove the lesion and the conclusive histopathological diagnosis was oral lichen planus. The patient was followed up over 1year with no signs of lesion recurrence. The use of the CO2 laser was found to be useful and effective to treat lichen planus.
Effect of different culture tube caps and concentrations of activated charcoal and sucrose on in vitro growth and budding induction of Annona glabra L.
Authors: Santana José Raniere Ferreira de , Paiva Renato , Souza Ana Valéria de , Oliveira Lenaldo Muniz de
Published: December 2011

The present work evaluated the effects of different types of culture flask seals and varying concentrations of sucrose and activated charcoal on the in vitro induction and growth of buds of Annona glabra L.; an edible fruit-producing species popularly known as "araticum". Nodal segments obtained from A. glabra plants maintained in green houses were surface sterilized and inoculated into a WPM culture medium solidified with 7 g L-1 of agar and supplemented with sucrose (0.00; 29.21; 58.63 and 116.84 mM), activated charcoal (0.0 and 2.0 g L-1), and 250 mg L-1 benomyl. In addition to the varying concentrations of sucrose and activated charcoal, we evaluated the efficiency of two types of test tube seals: PVC film, and cotton plugs. All possible combinations of caps and nutrient media were tested with 4 repetitions with 5 tubes each, evaluating the number of buds, the percentage of explant responses, the number of expanded leaves per bud, the length of the largest leaves, leaf abscission, and the length and dry weight of the buds. The type of seal influenced organogenesis in nodal segments of A. glabra, and no bud induction was observed in the absence of sucrose. The largest number of expanded leaves were obtained when 58.42 mM of sucrose was used in tubes sealed with cotton plugs, and leaf abscission was halved in the presence of activated charcoal. The greatest bud length and dry weight were obtained in tubes sealed with cotton plugs and in the presence of activated charcoal.
Yield per plant and other characteristics of soybean plants treated with kinetin and potassium nitrate
Authors: Passos Alexandre Martins Abdão dos , Rezende Pedro Milanez de , Alvarenga Amauri Alves de , Baliza Danielle Pereira , Carvalho Everson Reis , Alcântara Hélio Perez de
Published: December 2011

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of kinetin and potassium nitrate applied to leaves, at the R3 phenological phase, on some agronomic characteristics of soybean plants and their yield per plant in the field. The experiment was carried out in Itutinga, MG, using five kinetin concentrations (0, 250, 500, 750 and 1.000 mg kinetin ha-1) combined with four potassium nitrate concentrations (0, 5, 10 and 15 kg ha-1) in a factorial scheme using a randomized block experimental design, with three replications. The positioning of numbers of pods per plant was evaluated in three positions in the canopy: lower, middle and upper. The application of potassium nitrate did not influence the studied characteristics. Kinetin increased the total set pod number by 27.4% in contrast to the control, mainly in the lower and middle thirds of the canopy. The kinetin increased the pod set number up to 20.7%, in the middle third. The yield per plant was increased up to 27.1% using the highest kinetin concentration. The increases were attributed to an increase in the endogenous cytokinin levels that contribute to the higher production and better redistribution of assimilates to the pods and seeds.
Pectin methylesterase activity determined by different methods and thermal inactivation of exogenous pme in mango juice
Authors: Gonzalez Samantha Lemke , Lima Regina Cristina Aparecida , Carneiro Eliana Beleski Borba , Almeida Mareci Mendes de , Rosso Neiva Deliberali
Published: December 2011

Pectin methylesterase (PME) hydrolyzes methyl ester groups in pectin chains to form carboxylic groups, releasing methanol and H3O+. The aim of this study was to determine PME activity in samples of pectinases by UV-VIS spectroscopy, to measure the acid and methanol produced in the reaction of pectin with pectinase and to verify the thermal inactivation of exogenous PME in mango juice. The activity of PME in samples of pectinase was determined by potentiometry, UV-VIS spectroscopy, and by the action of alcohol oxidase. The reaction showed greater activity at pH 4.0 to 4.5 and at a temperature of 45° C. PME activity determined by UV-VIS spectroscopy with bromophenol blue indicator showed a good correlation with the activity determined by potentiometry and with alcohol oxidase. The results showed that bromophenol blue indicators can be used to determine PME activity in samples of pectinases where the optimum pH is located in the acidic range. The thermal inactivation of exogenous PME in mango juice occurred at 75° C for 20 min of exposure.
Influência do manejo de mamada sobre o retorno ao estro em ovelhas no pós-parto
Authors: Assis Roberta de Moura , Pérez Juan Ramon Olalquiaga , Souza José Camisão de , Leite Rafael Fernandes , Carvalho José Rodolfo Reis de
Published: December 2011

Conduziu-se este estudo, com o objetivo de avaliar o retorno ao estro pós-parto de ovelhas submetidas a diferentes manejos de mamada. Foram utilizados 56 ovelhas Santa Inês e Bergamácia, 71 cordeiros e 3 rufiões. Os manejos de mamada (MM) foram: 1: contínua; 2: duas mamadas diárias; 3: mamada durante a noite. O período experimental foi dos 15 dias pós-parto até o desmame aos 60 dias. Até os 15, dias de idade os cordeiros permaneceram com suas mães em período integral. No MM 1, as ovelhas permaneceram com seus cordeiros em uma baia, em período integral. No MM 2, as ovelhas passaram a noite em uma baia e o dia em pastagem, momento em que não possuíam contato físico e visual com as crias. Seus cordeiros permaneceram em outra baia em período integral, para onde as ovelhas eram encaminhadas no momento da amamentação. No MM 3, as ovelhas passaram o dia em pastagem e a noite com seus cordeiros em uma baia, na qual os cordeiros permaneceram em período integral. Todas as ovelhas e todos os cordeiros receberam alimentação nas baias. Para identificação das ovelhas em estro foram utilizados rufiões, os quais permaneceram com elas em período integral. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (PROC GLM, Sas®), e as médias comparadas por contrastes. O MM 2 possibilitou retorno ao estro pós-parto precoce quando comparado ao MM 3 e ao MM 1. Houve pouca ou nenhuma influência do anestro lactacional, pois 80% das ovelhas apresentaram estro durante a amamentação.
Quality of Life in the Nursing Homes in Jordan: Perspectives of Residents
Authors: Khader Fakhri
Published: December 2011

This study was planned and conducted to assess the quality of life (QOL) as perceived by 140 selected elderly people living in 3 public nursing homes in Amman, Jordan. Factors that may influence quality of life among the residents were analyzed, and the relationship between quality of life and certain demographics in the nursing homes was determined.

The data were collected through administration of a questionnaire during face-to-face interviews in the residents’ settings. Consent from each resident was sought and obtained.

The findings indicated that the quality of life is determined by age, gender, marital status, level of education, and length of stay in the nursing home. Also, by the quality of the four domains: physical, psychological, social relationships, and environment.
Power generation in MFCs with architectures based on tubular cathodes or fully tubular reactors
Authors: Zuo Y. , Logan B. E.
Published: December 2011

Tubular cathodes provide a method to obtain high surface areas for scaling up microbial fuel cells (MFCs), but the importance of the cathode shape is not known. We therefore examined power production using cathodes in various configurations (tubes or flat). The MFC with a single internal carbon cloth tube cathode (71 W/m3) produced more power than previously obtained with an ultrafiltration membrane (8 W/m3) due to the better performance of carbon material. This power density was slightly less than that of a flat carbon cloth cathode (81 W/m3; 88 m2/m3) due to the lower total surface area of the tube (68 m2/m3) and not as a result of the tubular cathode shape. Adding a second tube increased power (83 W/m3) in proportion to specific surface area (93 m2/m3). Wrapping the cathode completely around the anode formed a fully tubular MFC (external tubular reactor) with a higher surface area that produced 128 W/m3. Volumetric power density was highly correlated with cathode specific surface area (R2 = 0.93, p = 0.008) and did not depend on the cathode shape (tubes, completely tubular, or flat). Thus, future MFC designs should focus on increasing cathode specific surface area.
The inclusion of MgH2 into iron oxide and nickel oxide modified mesoporous carbon sorbent, an investigation on hydrogen production
Authors: Razie Dahti , Javad Khodaveisi , Moradi Seyyed
Published: December 2011

In the present work, we investigated the hydrogen desorption properties of
nano-sized MgH2 that was loaded on ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) surface
that had been already modified with nickel and iron oxide nanoparticles. The
surface modified mesoporous carbon was characterized by BET surface area and
X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The amount of MgH2 on the carbon surface
was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Dehydrogenation data of
MgH2 on the ordered mesoporous carbon were collected for the pressure up to
8 MPa (80 bar) at 500 K. The incorporated MgH2 on nickel oxide-mesoporous
carbon nanocomposite had faster dehydrogenation kinetics compared to
incorporated MgH2 on iron oxide-mesoporous carbon nanocomposite as well as
incorporated MgH2 on mesoporous carbon. This can be attributed to the
particle size of the former being smaller than that of the latter, as well
as much accessible nanosized surface of loaded MgH2.
Waterborne polyurethanes: influence of chain extender in ftir spectra profiles
Authors: Delpech Marcia , Miranda Gisele
Published: December 2011

Non-polluting systems based on waterborne polyurethanes (wPU) and poly(urethane-urea)s (wPUU) were synthesized employing poly(propylene glycol) (PPG), dimethylolpropionic acid (DMPA) and 4,4′-dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate (HMDI) as monomers. In the formulations, the length and the proportion of the soft segments were varied. Three types of chain extenders were employed: ethylene glycol (EG), producing urethane linkages; and ethylenediamine (EDA) and hydrazine (HYD), forming urea linkages. Cast films obtained from wPU and wPUU, monomers and prepolymers were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). The profile of carbonyl absorption bands obtained for the films showed some remarkable differences depending on the formulation. The bands were split into two parts, which were directly related to the tendency of hydrogen bond formation. The length of soft segment, the amount of rigid portions and the presence of urea linkages showed a marked influence in both intensity and frequency absorption of the bands.
Non linear inversion of gravity gradients and the GGI gradiometer
Authors: Talwani Manik
Published: December 2011

All gradiometers currently operating for exploration in the field are based on Lockheed Martin’s GGI gradiometer. The working of this gradiometer is described and a method for robust non linear inversion of gravity gradients is presented. The inversion method involves obtaining the gradient response of a trial body consisting of vertical rectangular prisms. The inversion adjusts the depth to the tops or bases of the prisms. In the trial model all the prisms are not required to have the same area of cross section or the same density (which can also be allowed to vary with depth). The depth to the tops and bottoms of each prism can also be different. This response is compared with the observed values of gradient and through an iterative procedure, the difference is minimized in a least square sense to arrive at a best fitting model by varying the position of the tops or bottoms of the prisms. Each gradient can be individually inverted or one or more gradients can be jointly inverted. The method is extended to invert gravity values individually or jointly with gradient values. The use of Differential Curvature, a quantity which is directly obtained by current gradiometers in use and which is an invariant under a rotation in the horizontal plane, is emphasized. Synthetic examples as well as a field example of inversion are given.
The (Little) Militia Man
Authors: Haugbolle Sune
Published: December 2011

This article discusses how militiamen who fought in the Lebanese civil war (1975–1990) have been represented in Lebanese cultural production and how these militiamen relate to public discourse on masculinity and culpability in the postwar period. Through an analysis of interviews with former militiamen from the Lebanese press, an autobiographical novel, and a play about the war, this paper examines the link between debates about memory and responsibility on one hand, and contentions over norms of masculine behavior on the other. The texts suggest that some Lebanese artists privilege a redemptive narrative, where former fighters are shown as regretful, even feminized, “little men” on par with other human victims of a senseless war. This narrative is meant to counter the widely held notion in Lebanon that militiamen bear a large part of the responsibility for the war. At the same time, this redemptive narrative seeks to sever the link between masculinity and sectarian cultures that, still today, celebrate violence committed during the civil war.
Gendered Memories and Masculinities
Authors: Fischer-Tahir Andrea
Published: December 2011

In 1988 the Iraqi regime launched the Anfal campaigns against the Kurdish peshmerga and their civil supporters in the rural areas. This article investigates narrations about Anfal constructed by peshmerga ten years after the events. It compares the memoirs of a leading commander published in Kurdistan with the biographical interview of a lower-ranking peshmerga conducted by myself for “Western” academic purpose. In so doing, the article highlights differences in dealing with the experience of defeat and harmed masculinity, which result from the situatedness of memory production. Left a vague topic in the 1990s, Anfal has become broadly discussed since the destruction of the former regime in 2003. By means of scientific concepts, academics and non-academics, among them former peshmerga, explain Anfal as an inescapable genocide that aimed to destroy the Kurds, suggesting that there is no need to remember defeat and harmed masculinity.
Diagnostic value of VIA comparing with conventional pap smear in the detection of colposcopic biopsy proved CIN
Authors: Hegde D , Shetty H , Shetty PK , Rai S , Manjeera L , Vyas N , Hegde A , Mallya H , Rajesh A
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Cervical cancer, the leading malignancy among Indian women is preventable and curable if detected at an early stage using proper screening tools. We conducted a study to assess the role of visual inspection with acetic acid as an alternative to pap smear and in screening program for cervical cancer in low resource settings. Methods: Two hundred and twenty five women in reproductive age group attending the Gynecology department at K.S Hegde Charitable Hospital were enrolled in the study. A Papanicolaou smear and visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid was done. All women then underwent colposcopy using the videocolposcope. All patients who tested positive on screening then underwent colposcopy guided biopsy. Pap smear of low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and above was taken as abnormal. The statistical test used was chi square test and results were computed using SPSS version 12.0. Results: Out of 225 patients, VIA was positive in 27(12%) patients and pap smear was abnormal in 26(11.7%). There were 15 LSIL, 6 high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) and 5 were squamous cell carcinoma. On biopsy, there were 15 mild dysplasia, 2 moderate dysplasia, 4 severe dysplasia and 3 squamous cancers. Pap smear had a sensitivity of 83%, specificity of 98%, positive predictive value of 80 % and negative predictive value of 97.9%. VIA had a sensitivity of 70.8%, specificity of 95%, and positive predictive value of 62.9 % and negative predictive value of 96.5%. Conclusion : Since diagnostic values of VIA is comparable to pap smear, and it performs well in detecting high grade lesion we conclude that VIA can be used as a screening modality for cervical cancer in low resource settings. Keywords: visual inspection with acetic acid; pap smear- colposcopy; cervical cancer; low resource settings DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5579   HR 2011; 9(3): 134-139
Effectiveness of pencil push up therapy in patients with convergence insufficiency: a pilot study
Authors: Sapkota K , Sah DK , Bhattarai S , Sharma AK , Shrestha JK , Shah DN
Published: December 2011

Background: Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a common ocular morbidity encountered in clinical optometry practice. It decreases the efficacy for near work. Pencil push up therapy (PPT) is frequently used for the treatment of CI. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of pencil push up exercise in convergence insufficiency patients. Methods: A hospital based interventional longitudinal prospective study was designed. All patients attending BP Koirala Lions Centre of Ophthalmic Studies (BPKLCOS), Nepal from March 1st 2008 to February 28, 2009 with symptomatic convergence insufficiency were included in this study. Near point of convergence (NPC), prism fusion vergence (PFV) and symptom score were measured with RAF ruler, prism bar and symptom questionnaire respectively before and after PPT. Results: Out of 84 patients included in the study, only 23 completed follow up check up. Among them 73% were female and 23% were male. The mean age of patients was 19.93±6.0 years and 73% of the total were students. The improvement in NPC was statistically significant after PPT (p =0.008). The average NPC at first visit was 18.58±7.46 cm while at follow up visit, it was 11±4.6 cm. The PFV and average symptom score were also improved significantly. Conclusion: PPT is beneficial for CI patients. It improves the NPC, PFV and reduces the symptom of the patients. However, the compliance of Nepalese CI patients with PPT is poor. Keywords: NPC; PFV; convergence insufficiency; pencil push up therapy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5583   HR 2011; 9(3): 157-161
Success of three quarter crown in posterior teeth
Authors: Suwal P , Sultana A
Published: December 2011

Introduction: This study was designed to observe the success of three quarter crown over conventional full veneer crown in the posterior teeth (premolars and molars) where there has been considerable destruction of tooth structure but with the buccal surface remaining intact. Method: A total number of 30 patients were studied. Among which 15 patients were treated with three quarter crown and rest of the 15 patients were treated with conventional full veneer crown. The specific parameters of the study were the preservation of natural tooth tissue, prevalence of secondary caries, conservation of periodontal health, esthetic, comfort and oral hygiene maintenance. After 6 Month of follow up period patient were recalled to evaluate the above mentioned parameters. Results: Among all the observations this study revealed the similar result in both group of patients. Periodontal disease and maintenance of oral hygiene was significantly associated in patient with three quarter crown, slight alteration of oral hygiene in the patient treated with full veneer crown was present. Conservation of the natural tooth structure especially buccal wall with negligible alteration in patient’s aesthetics (20%) as well as functional activities (20%) was significant for those patients with three quarter crown. Conclusion: Overall findings established that three quarter crown is equally effective for the restoration of the tooth and can be used as an alternative to conventional full veneer crown in the posterior teeth where there has been considerable destruction of tooth structure but with the buccal surface remaining intact. Keywords: Three quarter crown; conventional full veneer crown; secondary caries; periodontal disease; oral hygiene; esthetic DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5586   HR 2011; 9(3): 173-178
Instilling the core concept of inter professional education
Authors: Bhattacharya S , Bhattacharya SK , Gautam AP
Published: December 2011

The Inter Professional Education (IPE) is an innovative teaching learning intervention in Health Professions’ Education during which members of more than one health profession learn interactively together to improve collaborative practice and/health of the patients. Thus this approach provides positive outcomes for students enhancing their awareness towards other professional groups, improving knowledge and understanding of how to work in an inter professional team and strengthening their communication and collaboration skills. Within the hierarchical nature of many clinical settings, the aims of IPE courses intersect with socialization of health professional (HP) students into roles of responsibility and authority. The IPE in HP courses emphasizes the practice of frequent high quality communication, strong relationships and partnerships among health care providers to maximize the quality of care thus improving the efficiency of care thereby improving clinical outcomes. Health Professional Schools are this motivated to opt for inter professional education to improve the learning of the students, health care delivery and patient outcomes. Keywords: Inter professional relations; patient centered care; education DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5591   HR 2011; 9(3): 201-206
Corridor-Level Air Quality Analysis of Freight Movement
Authors: Farzaneh Mohamadreza , Lee Jae Su , Villa Juan , Zietsman Josias
Published: December 2011

The main objective of this research is to investigate the issues and opportunities for improving climate change and air quality implications of freight movement along a North American corridor. The paper presents a case study to determine the impact of truck and rail freight movement on air quality along the corridor from Mexico City, Mexico, to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Network and freight activity data were assembled for the corridor for a base case (corresponding to the year 2010) and a future case (corresponding to the year 2035). Emission rates for the case study were obtained from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's MOBILE6.2 emission model. Parameters such as vehicle age distribution from vehicle registration data were used to refine the emission rates. Rail emissions calculations are based on U.S. average emission and fuel consumption rates. These rates were revised to reflect the ongoing improvements in locomotive engine standards. The results show that freight movement will continue to cause substantial amounts of carbon dioxide emissions. Current levels of rail emissions are not significant compared with those of trucks; however, the share of rail emissions for some pollutants will increase over time. Because of the vast differences between truck and rail operations in terms of routing and operational practices, it is recommended that rail and truck analyses be performed separately to gauge environmental and air quality impacts. It was also determined that the emerging sources of data such as Global Positioning Systems and engine loggers can lead to improved monitoring accuracy; however, making use of these potential resources requires cooperation between the freight industry and transportation and environmental agencies.
Evaluating Effects of Engine Operating Variables on Particle Number Emission Rates Using Robust Regression Models
Authors: Kamarianakis Yiannis , Gao Huaizhu Oliver , Holmén Britt A.
Published: December 2011

This study examines the dynamics of high-frequency diesel particulate number (PN) emissions and their dependence on engine operating variables. Data collected from a heavy-duty diesel bus during a real-world experiment are analyzed with L1-regression models that are robust to outliers and free from distributional assumptions. The model-building procedure reveals the relative statistical significance of six engine operating variables and their interactions. Different models are estimated for accumulation mode PN (which dominates emitted particle mass) and for the ratio of ultrafine PN (which accounts for more than 90% of total emitted PN) to accumulation mode PN. A major implication from the study results is that interactions between engine operating variables should be thoroughly examined in instantaneous emission models. Specifically, the interaction between fuel-to-air ratio (or engine load) and engine speed exerts a significant effect on the above mentioned PN ratio, while the effect of exhaust temperature becomes statistically significant above 250°C. Boost and injection pressure were not statistically significant in explaining observed PN variability. Models for accumulation mode particles were stronger in terms of predictive power compared with models estimated for PN ratios.
Onboard, Real-World Second-by-Second Particle Number Emissions from 2010 Hybrid and Comparable Conventional Vehicles
Authors: Robinson Mitchell K. , Holmén Britt A.
Published: December 2011

Despite hybrid-electric vehicles becoming more prominent in the on-road light-duty vehicle fleet, few studies have evaluated their real-world particle emissions. Hot-stabilized tailpipe particle number concentrations, emission rates, and number distributions emitted from two 2010 Toyota Camry vehicles—one hybrid and one conventional—were quantified during city driving in Burlington, Vermont, at ambient temperatures between −5°C and 9°C with the University of Vermont total onboard tailpipe emissions measurement system. Across replicate real-world runs, the average total cumulative particle number (3- to 3,000-nm particle diameter) emission rates measured for the hybrid vehicle were two times higher than that of the conventional vehicle, despite the hybrid vehicle's internal combustion engine being off 16% to 57% of the run duration. Average second-by-second number distributions for the conventional vehicle had three particle modes (10, 50, and 400 nm), whereas the broader hybrid vehicle distributions had two distinct modes (50 and 400 nm) with shoulders at 10 and 20 nm. These distributions changed little over the route for a given vehicle type. The unexpected higher particle number emission rates from the hybrid, and possibly the differences in number distributions, may be explained by an observed pattern of internal combustion engine restarts under stop-and-go driving that resulted in extreme particle emission rates up to 3.5 × 1010 (number per second) at every engine restart. The hybrid restart behavior resulted in high particle number emissions localized primarily at intersections. More detailed study is needed on different hybrid vehicle designs to determine the broader significance of the observed particle emission patterns.
Characterization of On-Road Emissions of Compressed Natural Gas and Diesel Refuse Trucks
Authors: Lee Doh-Won , Zietsman Josias , Farzaneh Mohamadreza , Johnson Jeremy
Published: December 2011

Portable emission measurement systems were used to perform on-road emissions testing of compressed natural gas (CNG) and diesel refuse trucks to determine whether replacing diesel-fueled refuse trucks with CNG-fueled trucks would reduce emissions and fuel consumption. Two types of on-road testing were conducted: one while performing actual garbage collection in a service area (in-service testing) and the other following predeveloped duty cycles (duty cycle testing). Carbon dioxide (CO2), gaseous pollutants [oxides of nitrogen (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC)], and particulate matter (PM) emissions as well as carbon-based fuel consumption from refuse trucks during both types of testing were measured and analyzed. The analyzed results showed that CNG refuse trucks generally produced about 20% lower CO2 emissions and significantly lower NOx emissions compared with diesel trucks. However, CNG trucks emitted more CO and HC than diesel trucks. Almost all measured HC and PM emissions from diesel trucks were negligible. Measured PM emissions from CNG trucks were also negligible. Detailed tests and analyzed results are presented in this paper.
Ecological Assessment Process and Credit System for Highway Capacity Projects
Authors: Achterman Gail L. , Gaines Lisa J. , Kagan James S.
Published: December 2011

This Strategic Highway Research Program capacity project (C06B) study developed a cumulative effects and alternatives assessment (CEAA) process for highway capacity projects within an integrated ecological and transportation planning framework called the Ecological Assessment Framework. This framework created tools to support the principles of Eco-Logical: An Ecosystem Approach to Developing Infrastructure Projects. Existing ecological assessment and ecosystem crediting tools were surveyed and assessed, and a new template for cumulative effects and alternatives analysis was developed. The resulting process includes methods for enhancing data needed to reach early agreement with regulatory agencies under the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act. Guidance for developing function-based ecosystem crediting tools to meet regulatory requirements and to promote environmental stewardship goals is also provided. The CEAA process was piloted in three states to compare results between the new method and traditional methods. Initial results and case studies show that integrated ecological and transportation planning can expedite capacity project delivery and improve environmental outcomes. The CEAA process and supporting tools, case studies, and data sources will be integrated into the new Transportation for Communities: Advancing Projects Through Partnerships website.
Tire Noise Generation and Propagation over Porous and Nonporous Asphalt Pavements
Authors: Donavan Paul R.
Published: December 2011

Acoustic measurements were made on several asphalt test pavements at the National Center for Asphalt Technology test track, including five porous pavements. Onboard sound intensity (OBSI) measurements were taken to quantify the tire–pavement noise source strength as a function of pavement parameters. The OBSI results fell into three pavement groupings based on spectral shape. More than other parameters, these groupings were determined by whether the pavement was porous or not and whether it was new or older. The OBSI results also indicated that single-layer porous pavements were particularly effective at reducing tire–pavement noise source strength at frequencies above 1,250 Hz for designs 18 to 33 mm thick. For a thicker, double-layer porous pavement, source strength reductions extended down to 630 Hz. Porous pavements were also found to be effective in reducing the source strength of the tire–pavement interaction by reducing some tire noise mechanisms and by reducing the sound power level of the source through local sound absorption. Testing was also conducted to evaluate the additional attenuation for sound propagating over porous, sound-absorbing pavements compared with nonporous pavements. From the propagation measurements, all porous pavements produced additional sound attenuation over that produced by the nonporous pavements. The additional attenuation also increased with distance from the source.
Determining End Limits of Quieter Pavement Projects
Authors: Rymer Bruce , Donavan Paul R.
Published: December 2011

Ongoing work in the area of tire pavement–acoustics has definitively determined that there can be a significant variation of noise levels between the loudest and quietest pavements. With the use of the onboard sound intensity (OBSI) measurement procedure, it has also been determined that tire–pavement noise is highly correlated to the overall traffic noise levels, especially when traffic is flowing at freeway speeds. OBSI presents road agencies with a potential new tool for lowering traffic noise levels by using quieter pavements. Changing from a loud or old and raveled pavement to a newer, smoother, lower noise pavement can yield acoustic benefits to roadside communities or “receivers.” The decrease in noise level depends on the difference between OBSI levels of the existing pavement and the selected quieter pavement, and the magnitude of this decrease may also be influenced by vehicle mix. After the decision to use a quieter pavement has been made, the end limits for the pavement must be determined. The problem is somewhat similar to deciding where to terminate a sound wall relative to the location of the roadside receivers. This analysis determined that the quiet pavement end limits were less sensitive to variation in typical roadway cross sections, somewhat sensitive to the distance between the receiver and the roadway and where the quiet pavement terminates, and very sensitive to the absolute differences between the noisier and quieter pavements.
Comparative Study on Production of Antibody in Broilers Vaccinated with Four Lyophilized Newcastle Disease Vaccine
Authors: Kamrunnahar S , Alim MM , Taslima AHM , Islam MA , Paul NC
Published: December 2011

A comparative efficacy of four lyophilized Newcastle disease vaccine, namely, Medivac ND-LaSota®, BCRDV®, Izovac B1 Hitchner® and Cevac Vitapest-L® in regard to the production of Himagglutination Inhibition (HI)- antibody was accomplished. For this, a total of 75 chicks were equally divided into five experimental groups such as, A, B, C, D and E. The HI antibody titers of group A vaccinated on 5 and 21 days of age with Medivac NDLaSota ® fluctuated among the Mean ± SD of 89.60 ± 33.05, 102.40 ± 33.05 and 192 ± 67.46 at 15 (10 DPV), 19 (14 DPV) and 31 (26 DPV) days of age respectively. As regards, group B administered with BCRDV® on the same days, the HI titers varied with the Mean ± SD of 83.20 ± 30.91, 102.40 ± 33.04 and 204.80 ± 66.09 at 15 (10 DPV), 19 (14 DPV) and 31 (26 DPV) days of age respectively. When considered the HI antibody titers of group C inoculated with Izovac B1 Hitchner® on days 5 and 21 of age, HI titer exhibited the Mean ± SD of 80.00 ± 43.33, 96.00 ± 33.73 and 192.00 ± 67.46 at 15 (10 DPV), 19 (14 DPV) and 31 (26 DPV) days of age respectively. Elucidation of HI antibody titers of group D birds receiving Cevac Vitapest-L® on same days were recorded to be of Mean ± SD of 96.00 ± 33.73, 115.20 ± 26.98 and 320.00 ± 173.31 at 15 (10 DPV), 19 (14 DPV) and 31 (26 DPV) days of age respectively. In birds of unvaccinated control group E, HI titers were found to be ranged from 32- 64, 16-32, 8-16, 4-8 and 2-4 with Mean ± SD of 48.00 ± 16.87, 24.00 ± 8.43, 11.20 ± 4.13, 5.20 ± 1.93 and 3.40 ± 0.97 on 3, 15, 17, 19 and 31 days of age respectively. Thus, it was found that birds of group A, B, C and D vaccinated with Medivac ND-LaSota®, BCRDV®, Izovac B1 Hitchner® and Cevac Vitapest-L® induced slightly higher level of HI antibody titers than that of BCRDV. Maternally derived antibody (MDA) persisted to a minimal level until the age of chicks of day 17 and later on MDA declined. Keywords: Vaccine; Antibody Titer; Newcastle Disease VirusDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9159 BJM 2010; 27(1): 1-5
Reduced Susceptibility to Fluoroquinolone in Salmonella typhi and Some Molecular Characteristics of Fluoroquinolone Resistance in Indigenous Isolates
Authors: Mahmud Abu Sayeed M , Mahmud M Nuruddin , Hakim M Abdul
Published: December 2011

Typhoid fever and Salmonella typhi bacteremia among the patients were evaluated at Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Popular Diagnostic Center, Kumudiny Hospital and other sites throughout Bangladesh. Among the 943 Salmonella typhi isolates studied, 57.4% showed resistance to ampicillin (MIC > 256 mg/ml), 58 % to cotrimoxazole (MIC > 32 mg/ ml) and 58.6% to chloramphenicol (MIC > 256 mg/ml). Significant resistance (97.8%) was observed against first generation quinolone, nalidixic acid (MIC > 256 mg/ml) whereas only 11 isolates (1.1%) were resistant to second generation fluoroquinolone, ciprofloxacin. Among 943 isolates E-strip test of 411 isolates for ciprofloxacin showed that 53 isolates were very sensitive (MIC < 0.125 mg/ml), 252 were sensitive (MIC between 0.125 mg/ ml and 0.5 mg/ ml), 95 were moderately sensitive (MIC between 0.5 mg/ml and 2.0 mg/ml) and the rest were resistant (MIC >2.0 ìg/ml) or very highly resistant (MIC 512 mg/ml). However, all isolates including ciprofloxacin resistant S. typhi were found sensitive to a third generation cephalosporin ceftazidime. All the isolates resistant to ciprofloxacin were found to be identical by API 20 E (Analytical Profile Index) score (4404552) and VNTR typing. Digestion of PCR product (195 bp gyrase A) of ciprofloxacin resistant strain with Hind l did not make any change, compared to the undigested product of the same strains in the electrophoresis banding pattern, indicating the presence of mutations at both the ser-83 and asp-87 sites of the genome Gyr A. In contrast, the PCR product from nalidixic acid susceptible control strain cleaved at both sites, ser-83 and asp-87. Key words: VNTR; Antibiotic resistance; Quinolone; Salmonella DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i2.9169 BJM 2010; 27(2): 38-41
Metagenomic 16S rDNA Targeted PCR-DGGE in Determining Bacterial Diversity in Aquatic Ecosystem
Authors: Hasan Nur A , Chowdhury W Bari , Rahim Niaz , Sultana Marzia , Shabnam S Antara , Mai Volker , Ali Afsar , Morris Glen J , Sack R Bradley , Huq Anwar , Colwell Rita R , Endtz Hubert Ph , Cravioto Alejandro , Alam Munirul
Published: December 2011

Bacterial numbers in surface water samples, collected randomly from six different water bodies, were estimated by acridine orange direct counting (AODC) and conventional culture-based heterotrophic plate counting (HPC). Bacterial genomic DNA was prepared from water samples by employing methods used for stool samples, including the population dynamics, were determined by primer extension of the 16S rDNA (V6/V8 region) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), a metagenomic tool that is capable of separating unrelated DNAs based on the differences in their sequences and GC contents. The bacterial numbers in water samples ranged from 103 – 106 CFU/ mL for HPC and 104 – 107 cells/ mL for AODC, showing that a great majority of bacteria prevail as uncultivable which do not respond to culture methods that are used widely for tracking bacterial pathogens. The acridine orange-stained bacteria varied in sizes and shapes, and appeared either as planktonic (solitary) cells or as clusters of biofilms, showing the presence of diverse community under the epifluorescence microscope. The DGGE of the ca. 457 bp amplicons, as confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis, produced bands that ranged in intensities and numbers from 18 to 31, with each band possibly indicating the presence of one or more closely related bacterial species. The enrichment of pathogenic bacteria in the aquatic ecosystem is known to precede the seasonal diarrhoeal outbreaks; therefore, bacterial community dynamics determined by Metagenomic 16S PCR-DGGE during pre-epidemic enrichment appears promising in predicting the upcoming diarrheal outbreaks. Key words: Metagenomics; 16S rDNA; PCR; DGGE; bacterial community dynamics DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i2.9171 BJM 2010; 27(2): 46-50
Production of Ethanol Using Yeast Isolates on Water Hyacinth and Azolla
Authors: Hossain Riajul , Chowdhury Miraj Kobad , Yeasmin Sabina , Hoq M Mozammel
Published: December 2011

Fossil fuel depletion and limitations turn scientists to develop alternative fuels as well as biofuels. Cheap cellulosic biomass could be used as raw materials for production of ethanol. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and Azolla (Azolla pinnata) are the two biomass resources considered in this study. The purpose of this study was to produce ethanol using water hyacinth and Azolla as substrates used to produce ethanol by using two yeasts presumptively identified as Sachharomyces cerevisiae (Sc-SR4, Sc-MR8) and Kluyveromyces marxianus (Km-SR3). For saccharification, water hyacinth and Azolla were pretreated with different concentrations (0.25 to 1.0%) of sulphuric acid. D-glucose and reducing sugar yield was found higher for Azolla (40% of dry weight) than water hyacinth (25.2% of dry weight). The ethanol yield was higher with water hyacinth, (0.32g/g ethanol), than that of Azolla, (0.20g/g ethanol). Acid and heat treatment both affected saccharification. The water hyacinth hydrolysate fermentation resulted in 1.9% (v/v) ethanol by the isolate Sc-SR4 and 1.4% (v/v) ethanol by the Sc-MR8 and thus the Sc-SR4 proved to be more efficient than Sc-MR8. Similarly, fermentation of Azolla hydrolysate gave 1.01% (v/ v) ethanol by Sc-SR4 and 0.45% (v/v) by the Sc-MR8 isolate. Key words: Biofuel; Ethanol; Yeast; Cellulosic Substrates   DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i2.9173 BJM 2010; 27(2): 56-60
Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases in Bangladesh
Authors: Haque KMHS Sirajul
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9177 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 120
Vascular Surgeons  Past & Future
Authors: Alam SA Nurul
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9178Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 121
Coronary Angiographic Patency in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction With or Without Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Rahman MM , Dey SR , Shahabuddin M , Kundu AK , Rahman Z , Paul D , Chowdhury AR
Published: December 2011

Background: The myocardial infarction (MI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries as well as in developing countries including Bangladesh. Streptokinase since its introduction has been shown to reduce mortality significantly. The outcome of MI treated with streptokinase can be evaluated either by CAG measurement of TIMI blood flow or by the measurement of ST segment resolution in 12 lead ECG. Methods: This cross sectional comparative study was conducted in the department of Cardiology in Sylhet M A G Osmani Medical college, to compare the patency between MI patients with or without streptokinase therapy, from Jan 2008 to Dec 2009. Considering enrollment criteria a total of 96 patients with acute MI were evaluated. All patients were categorized into two groups. Group-I (n=48), who received streptokinase and Group-II (n=48), who did not received the same(due to late presentation). CAG was done with in 7- 28 days of on set of pain. The patients admitting in coronary care unit with the diagnosis of STEMI were taken as the study subjects. Results: Adequate TIMI (thrombolysis in myocardial infarction) flow was higher who received streptokinase (85.4%) than those who did not receive the therapy (52.1%). Conclusion: This study indicates that streptokinase therapy is associated with rapid and sustained reperfusion of the infarct related artery in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction. Keywords: Myocardial infarction; Thrombolytic therapy; Streptokinase; Coronary angiographic patency. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9182 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 136-142