bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water consumption in a public swimming pool
Authors: Maglionico Marco , Stojkov Irena
Published: December 2015

Swimming pools are heavy consumers of potable water and energy in cities. Despite this, the lack of monitoring requirements produces a lack of references for their water consumption. This paper aims to fill this gap by presenting a case-study water consumption analysis of a public swimming pool in the city of Bologna (Italy). After upgrading the water fixtures and filters in summer 2012, consumption and attendance at the Cá Selvatica swimming pool were monitored. With an average daily attendance of 88.6 people/day, taking into account both personal and technical consumption, an overall per capita consumption of about 96.1 l/person/day was determined. The water demand for personal uses only (showers, toilets, etc.) was found to be about 44.6 l/person/day. These values can be used to assess retrofitting benefits and water consumption benchmarks.
Evaluation of alternative DNA extraction processes and real-time PCR for detecting Cryptosporidium parvum in drinking water
Authors: Kimble Gina H. , Hill Vincent R. , Amburgey James E.
Published: December 2015

USEPA Method 1623 is the standard method in the United States for the detection of Cryptosporidium in water samples, but quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is an alternative technique that has been successfully used to detect Cryptosporidium in aqueous matrices. This study examined various modifications to a commercial nucleic acid extraction procedure in order to enhance PCR detection sensitivity for Cryptosporidium. An alternative DNA extraction buffer allowed for qPCR detection at lower seed levels than a commercial extraction kit buffer. In addition, the use of a second spin column cycle produced significantly better detection (P = 0.031), and the volume of Tris–EDTA buffer significantly affected crossing threshold values (P = 0.001). The improved extraction procedure was evaluated using 10 L of tap water samples processed by ultrafiltration, centrifugation and immunomagnetic separation. Mean recovery for the sample processing method was determined to be 41% using microscopy and 49% by real-time PCR (P = 0.013). The results of this study demonstrate that real-time PCR can be an effective alternative for detecting and quantifying Cryptosporidium parvum in drinking water samples.
Automated determination and evaluation of water losses in water distribution systems
Authors: Klingel Philipp , Knobloch Axel
Published: December 2015

Using conventional methods and tools for determining detailed zonal water balances and performance indicators involves considerable efforts in manual data collection and processing. Hence, water balances mostly are determined for a whole network only. Unmetered components are often neglected or based on rough estimates. This article presents an approach to the automated determination of zonal water balances and its implementation as a software tool. The approach is demonstrated for the practical case of the Pforzheim water utility (Stadtwerke Pforzheim GmbH & Co. KG).
Assessment of the impact of water parameters on the flow rate of ceramic pot filters in a long-term experiment
Authors: Salvinelli C. , Elmore A. C.
Published: December 2015

Poor water quality is a major contributing factor to disease in developing countries. Silver-coated ceramic pot filters (CPFs) are a relatively common form of household water treatment system (HWTS) representing an effective and sustainable technology for poor communities. Water production seems to be the major limiting factor of the CPF's lifetime and sustainability since low flow rates do not produce an adequate daily volume of treated water. This paper describes a long-term study of CPF flow rates under controlled conditions using three different water sources. The relationship between water characteristics and flow rate was assessed with the intent of identifying the principal parameters that impact CPF water production. The study concluded that turbidity seems to be the principal indicator in determining CPF lifetime in terms of quantity of treated water. There is no evidence that biological activity also contributes to premature failure of CPFs and the data did not indicate that chemical precipitation is responsible for the filter clogging. Manufacturers commonly conduct initial flow rate tests using clear water as a measure of quality assurance. However, the relationship between initial flow rate and average flow rate during the lifetime of the CPF should be further studied.
A clinoptilolite-PDMS mixed-matrix membrane for high temperature water softening
Authors: Yazdanbakhsh Farzad , Alizadehgiashi Moien , Sawada James A. , Kuznicki Steven M.
Published: December 2015

A mixed-matrix membrane composed of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as the continuous phase and clinoptilolite, a naturally occurring zeolite, as the active phase has been used to decrease the conductivity of water by more than 80% across the membrane. Testing was carried out using a cross-flow configuration at temperatures as high as 160 °C using a constant transmembrane pressure of 8 bar. The simple fabrication method for the membrane, the durability of the system under the test conditions, and a suitable flux rate make such membranes promising candidates for industrial wastewater treatment.
Continuous flow electrocoagulation in the treatment of wastewater from dairy industries
Authors: Benazzi Toni L. , Di Luccio Marco , Dallago Rogério M. , Steffens Juliana , Mores Rúbia , Do Nascimento Mariele S. , Krebs Jociane , Ceni Gustavo
Published: December 2015

Dairy industry wastewater contains high levels of organic matter, consisting mainly of fat, protein and products of their partial microbial decomposition. In the present study, the use of continuous electrocoagulation is proposed for the primary treatment of dairy wastewater. The electrochemical treatment was carried out in a continuous flow cell with aluminum electrodes. The influence of the voltage, the distance between the electrodes and the hydraulic residence time (HRT) on the process performance was assessed, by measuring the removal of color, turbidity, total organic carbon (TOC) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). The optimum voltage, distance between the electrodes and HRT were 10 V, 1 cm and 90 min, respectively, yielding a current density of 13.3 A.m−2. Under these conditions, removal of color, turbidity, TOC and COD were 94%, 93%, 65% and 69%, respectively, after a steady state was reached in the continuous flow reactor.
A review of sulfide emissions in sewer networks: overall approach and systemic modelling
Authors: Carrera Lucie , Springer Fanny , Lipeme-Kouyi Gislain , Buffiere Pierre
Published: December 2015

The problems related to hydrogen sulfide in terms of deterioration of sewer networks, toxicity and odor nuisance have become very clear to the network stakeholders and the public. The hydraulic and (bio)chemical phenomena and parameters controlling sulfide formation, emission and their incidences in sewer networks are very complex. Recent research studies have been developed in gravity and pressure sewers and some transfer models have been published. Nevertheless, the models do not take into account all the physical phenomena influencing the emission process. After summing up the main scientific knowledge concerning the production, oxidation, transfer and emission processes, the present review includes: (i) a synthetic analysis of sulfide and hydrogen sulfide emission models in sewer networks, (ii) an estimation of their limit, (iii) perspectives to improve the modelling approach. It shows that sulfide formation and uptake models still need refinements especially for some phenomena such as liquid to gas mass transfer. Transfer models that have been published so far are purposely simplified and valid for simple systems. More efforts have to be undertaken in order to better understand the mechanisms and the dynamics of hydrogen sulfide production and emission in real conditions.
Quantitative Fetal Fibronectin to Predict Spontaneous Preterm Birth: A Review
Authors: Hezelgrave Natasha L , Shennan Andrew H
Published: December 2015

Spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally. Accurate prediction of sPTB would enable targeting of interventions such as admission to hospital, antenatal corticosteroids, magnesium sulphate and in utero transfer as well as guiding prophylactic treatment (e.g., cerclage or progesterone). Measurement of fetal fibronectin concentration in the cervicovaginal fluid is a known predictor of sPTB. Traditionally a positive/negative test (defined by a threshold of 50 ng/ml), recent work has demonstrated improved prediction when used as a quantitative test, whereby the concentration of fetal fibronectin is measured by an automated bedside reader. This review examines the evidence surrounding the use of quantitative fetal fibronectin in asymptomatic women at high risk of sPTB, as well as those with symptoms of threatened sPTB.
The Anesthetic Effect of Anterior Middle Superior Alveolar Technique (AMSA)
Authors: de Souza Tolentino Lívia , Barbisan Souza André , Girardi Ana Alice , Romito Giuseppe Alexandre , Araújo Maurício Guimarães
Published: December 2015

Anesthesia of the soft and hard tissues of the maxilla may require up to 5 injections. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anesthetic efficacy of the anterior middle superior alveolar (AMSA) and supraperiosteal injection techniques during subgingival scaling and root planing (SRP). Thirty individuals with periodontitis were scheduled for SRP on the buccal aspect of teeth in the anterior maxilla. Before SRP, on a randomly chosen side of the maxilla, the supraperiosteal injection was performed in 1 session, while the AMSA injection was conducted in the contralateral side of the same patient in another session. Immediately after each SRP session, patients rated their pain perception during the procedure with a visual analog scale. No statistically significant differences in mean pain ratings during SRP were found after both anesthetic techniques (P > .05). This preliminary study demonstrated that the AMSA and supraperiosteal injection techniques provided similar anesthetic comfort during SRP. The AMSA injection could be an alternative to anesthetize the buccal aspect of maxilla, without the undesirable effects on facial structures such as the upper lip, nostrils, and lower eyelids. However, further randomized clinical trials with larger samples are necessary to confirm such results.
Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia During Office-Based Anesthetic in a Four-Year-Old Child
Authors: Orr Timothy M. , Orr Daniel L.
Published: December 2015

A 4-year-old 16-kg boy presented for full mouth dental rehabilitation in a private pediatric dental office. The patient had no significant previous medical history. Upon sevoflurane induction by a dentist anesthesiologist, the patient converted from normal sinus rhythm to pulseless ventricular tachycardia. Advanced cardiac life support protocol was initiated. After 2 automatic external defibrillator shocks were delivered in conjunction with epinephrine administration, the patient returned to normal sinus rhythm. The patient was transported via emergency medical service paramedics to a local children's hospital emergency room where he was observed uneventfully for 24 hours prior to discharge.
The Sex Difference in Rod Balancing: Confirmation of the Difference and a Test of Three Hypothetical Explanations
Authors: Porras Ileana C. , Hiscock Merrill , Layne Charles S.
Published: December 2015

Previous studies have shown that men can balance a dowel rod on the index finger for a longer time than women can. The factors that account for the difference are unknown, but the difference may be attributable either to a difference in whole-body agility or a difference in the use of visual cues. Three experiments involving a total of 62 adult women with a mean age of 21.2yr. ( SD = 3.8) and 62 adult men with a mean age of 21.9yr. ( SD = 6.6) tested these potential explanations. Experiment 1 replicated the sex difference and assessed the relevance of whole-body agility by comparing standing and seated conditions. Experiments 2 and 3 explored the role of rod length and visual fixation point, respectively. Each experiment yielded a significant sex difference, but the difference was not affected by the participant's posture, the length of the rod, or the fixation point. Possible alternative explanations for the difference include differences in (1) the speed of processing degree of visual tilt; (2) arm mass, which affects the inertia of the balancing system; and (3) experience in open-skill sports.
A Study on Visual Limitation of Age, Numerical Size, and Exposure Time While Users Operate Mobile Devices
Authors: Yeh Po-Chan
Published: December 2015

Technological advances have driven the development of information technology (IT) products and communication using mobile devices has become a part of daily life. When using mobile devices, reading time and font size are important communication elements that significantly affect reading performance. However, studies of reading performance in older samples have mainly used printed material or computer monitors; this study examined the performance of users when reading text messages on the interfaces of mobile devices and described their visual limitations. Sixty-two participants took part in the experiment, which involved displaying different font sizes and exposure times. The younger group read 10-point font accurately, while the older group had much worse accuracy, even at 14 points. The younger group correctly read text messages displayed for 0.4 sec. above 80% of the time, while the older group's accuracy was severely impaired even when text was displayed for 1 sec.
Children's Movement Skills When Playing Active Video Games
Authors: Hulteen Ryan M. , Ridgers Nicola D. , Johnson Tara M. , Mellecker Robin R. , Barnett Lisa M.
Published: December 2015

Active video games (AVGs) may be useful for movement skill practice. This study examined children's skill execution while playing Xbox Kinect™ and during movement skill assessment. Nineteen children (10 boys, 9 girls; M age = 7.9yr., SD = 1.4) had their skills assessed before AVG play and then were observed once a week for 6 wk. while playing AVGs for 50min. While AVG play showed evidence of correct skill performance (at least 30–50% of the time when playing table tennis, tennis, and baseball), nearly all skills were more correctly performed during skill assessment (generally more than 50% of the time). This study may help researchers to better understand the role AVGs could play in enhancing real life movement skills.
Psychophysical Benefits of Rock-Climbing Activity
Authors: Gallotta Maria Chiara , Emerenziani Gian Pietro , Monteiro Maria Dolores , Iasevoli Luigi , Iazzoni Sara , Baldari Carlo , Guidetti Laura
Published: December 2015

The aim of the study was to compare the psychophysical effects of rock climbing with a supervised fitness training in adults. Thirty-three healthy participants ( M age = 32yr., SD = 7) participated in rock climbing or in fitness training. The participants' functional fitness, anxiety, and mood states were tested before and after 3 mo. of training. There was significant improvement of physical fitness in both groups after the intervention period. Anxiety significantly decreased after each single training session at the end of both courses. Differential effects in the rock-climbing group, as compared to the fitness group, emerged only on Vigor. Specifically, the rock-climbing group showed a decreasing trend in Vigor while the fitness group showed an increasing trend of Vigor after the intervention.
Perception, trends and impacts of climate change in Kailali District, Far West Nepal
Authors: Thapa Lal Bahadur , Thapa Himanchal , Magar Bimala Gharti
Published: December 2015

Correction: On 31/12/2015 the author's name Binala Gharti Magar was changed to Bimala Gharti MagarPerception and place-based studies give useful information on climate change in context of Nepal due to having its wide geographical, climatic, biological and cultural diversity. A household survey and focus group discussions were carried out in this study to document local people’s perceptions on climate change in Kailali district of Nepal. Most of respondents in the study area have perceived that temperature and fog are increased; and rainfall and hail are decreased with severe fluctuation. Trend of temperature supports local people’s perception. People have noticed impacts of these changes in vegetation, plant phenology and agriculture. Fundamentally, they have observed that certain plant species are decreasing, increasing and showing changes in flowering and fruiting time. This information could have significance for future research to identify climate change sensitive or indicator plants.International Journal of Environment Vol.4(4) 2015: 62-76
Analysis of Retrospective Time to First Pregnancy Data in Uttar Pradesh under Various Dimensions
Authors: Maheshwari Sonam , Singh Brijesh P. , Pudir P.S.
Published: December 2015

The present study deals with the estimation of the mean value of fecundability by fitting a theoretical distribution from the observed distribution of first conception of the women, who did not use any contraceptive method before their first conception. It is assumed that fecundability is fixed for a given couple, but across couples it varies according to a specified distribution. Under the classical approach, methods of moment and maximum likelihood are used while for Bayesian approach, empirical Bayes method used. A real data analysis from the third National Family Health Survey (NFHS-III, 2005-06) is analyzed as an application of model for various age at marriage groups of women. Finally, a simulation study is performed to access the performance of the several of methods used in this paper.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 51-58
Comparison of Energy of the Sitnikov's Restricted three Body Problem if the Primaries are Sources of Radiation, Oblate Spheroids and Triaxial Rigid Bodies
Authors: Thapa Raju Ram
Published: December 2015

The paper establishes the energy of Stinikov's restricted three body problem when the primaries are source of radiations, oblate spheroids and triaxial rigid bodies. The effect of source of radiations, oblate spheroids and triaxial rigid bodies with their corresponding equation of motions has been studied. The equation of motions of third body is used to calculate the required energy of the infinitesimal body.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 59-63
Intestinal Parasitic Co-Infection in Reaction and Non-Reaction Leprosy Patients of Dhanusha, Nepal
Authors: Singh Saurav K. , Maharjan Mahendra
Published: December 2015

Development of reaction in leprosy patients causes severe complication in treatment. In order to analyze the association between leprosy-reaction and gastrointestinal parasitic co- infection, 100 each leprosy patients with reaction and non-reaction were identified and their stool samples were microscopically examined. The overall frequencies of intestinal parasites observed were 33 percent protozoa and 5.5 percent helminths. Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia were most prevalent parasites in both group of leprosy-reaction and non-reaction patients. Trichomonas hominis, Strongyloides stercoralis and Ancylostoma duodenales were found only in leprosy-reaction patients. There was positive co-relation between intestinal parasitic co-infection and development of reaction in leprosy patients.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 64-67
Current State of Knowledge on Invasive and Alien Fauna of Nepal
Authors: Budha Prem Bahadur
Published: December 2015

This study produced a comprehensive list of introduced fauna of Nepal. Of the sixty four species of alien fauna reported, there were seven species of mammals with forty improved breeds of cow, buffalo, goat, sheep and pig, six species of birds with eight breeds of chicken and duck, nineteen species of fish, twenty two species of arthropods including one species of freshwater prawn and twenty one species of insects, nine species of molluscs and one species of platyhelminths. Among reported alien species Achatina fulica, Capra hircus, Clarius batrachus, Cyprinus carpio, Gambusia affinis, Oncorynchus mykiss, Oreochromis mossambicus, Oryctolagus cuniculus, Platydemus manokwari, and Sus scrofa are considered the worst species of the world and listed in ‘100 of the World’s Worst Invasive Alien Species’. The impacts of all these serious animals in Nepal are still to be studied but some problematic species of agricultural pests, freshwater habitat as well as livestock breeds are discussed in this paper.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 68-81
Status of Human-Wildlife Conflict and Assessment of Crop Damage by Wild Animals in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal
Authors: Awasthi Bairam , Singh Nanda Bahadur
Published: December 2015

This study tries to explore the status of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) within the Gaurishankar Conservation Area (GCA), Nepal. The maximum damage of maize (39%) and potato (30%) crops were reported due to wildlife in the study area. Major wildlife pests were monkey, porcupine, goral, barking deer, jackal and Himalayan black bear. About ninety five percent of respondents reported crop damage problem was increasing in the area after GCA establishment. Fair and quick disbursement of compensation for crop loss and regular monitoring of the wild animal needed to be adopted to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. Change in cropping and crop composition, particularly cultivation of high value medicinal plants were also suggested. The findings suggest participatory approach to manage problematic animal species in GCA.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 107-111
Epidemio-entomological Study of Japanesse Encephalitis in Bhaktapur District, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Monica , Gupta Ranjana , Gautam Ishan
Published: December 2015

A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire survey on Japanese encephalitis was conducted in Bhaktapur district. Mosquitoes were collected for six months by means of dark activated rechargeable CDC light trap. Out of 884 mosquitoe individuals collected, 73.41 percent were Culex species. The highest numbers of mosquitoes were collected in July and August. There was no significant variation in Culex vectors abundance during six months in three study sites Tathali, Bode and Bhelukhel. Significant correlation was found between level of knowledge and attitude towards JE prevention. Fair level of practice towards JE prevention but having no good attitude shows that though people are supportive towards JE control.  Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 112-118
Terminating 3F2(2) and Some Identities for 2F2
Authors: Hernández-Galeana A. , López-Vázquez R , López-Bonilla J.
Published: December 2015

The Petkovsek-Wilf-Zeilberger’s algorithm permits to give a simple proof of the Rathie-Pogany’s identity for the hypergeometric function 2F2.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 123-126
Models to Describe the Distribution of Distance Associated with Marriage Migration
Authors: Shukla Kamlesh Kumar
Published: December 2015

The nature of marriage-migration closely linked to social norms and values along with conjugal laws and behavior among the society. In a society where village endogamy is common, there may not be many marriage-migrations. Marriage migration has no influence on size of the population. It is almost a universal custom for bride to move to bridegroom’s home in Indian society. Model is used here based upon distance associated with marriage-migration data of Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh, India. The suitability of the model is tested with the real data sets and found to be well fitted. The pattern of distance associated with marriage-migration follow the third degree polynomial equation in case of Indian data.Journal of Institute of Science and Technology, 2015, 20(1): 145-147
Application of contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI-based 3D reconstruction of the dural tail sign in meningioma resection
Authors: You Binsheng , Cheng Yanhao , Zhang Jian , Song Qimin , Dai Chao , Heng Xueyuan , Fei Chang
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

The goal of this study was to investigate the significance of contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (T1W) MRI-based 3D reconstruction of dural tail sign (DTS) in meningioma resection.

METHODS

Between May 2013 and August 2014, 18 cases of convexity and parasagittal meningiomas showing DTS on contrast-enhanced T1W MRI were selected. Contrast-enhanced T1W MRI-based 3D reconstruction of DTS was conducted before surgical treatment. The vertical and anteroposterior diameters of DTS on the contrast-enhanced T1W MR images and 3D reconstruction images were measured and compared. Surgical incisions were designed by referring to the 3D reconstruction and MR images, and then the efficiency of the 2 methods was evaluated with assistance of neuronavigation.

RESULTS

Three-dimensional reconstruction of DTS can reveal its overall picture. In most cases, the DTS around the tumor is uneven, whereas the DTS around the dural vessels presents longer extensions. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the vertical and anteroposterior diameters of DTS measured on the contrast-enhanced T1W MR and 3D reconstruction images. The 3D images of DTS were more intuitive, and the overall picture of DTS could be revealed in 1 image, which made it easier to design the incision than by using the MR images. Meanwhile, assessment showed that the incisions designed using 3D images were more accurate than those designed using MR images (ridit analysis by SAS, F = 7.95; p = 0.008). Pathological examination showed that 34 dural specimens (except 2 specimens from 1 tumor) displayed tumor invasion. The distance of tumor cell invasion was 1.0–21.6 mm (5.4 ± 4.41 mm [mean ± SD]). Tumor cell invasion was not observed at the dural resection margin in all 36 specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrast-enhanced T1W MRI-based 3D reconstruction can intuitively and accurately reveal the size and shape of DTS, and thus provides guidance for designing meningioma incisions.
Treatment of ruptured complex and large/giant ruptured cerebral aneurysms by acute coiling followed by staged flow diversion
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Piano Mariangela , Fang Shanna , Pero Guglielmo , Kallmes David F. , Quilici Luca , Valvassori Luca , Lozupone Emilio , Cloft Harry J. , Boccardi Edoardo , Lanzino Giuseppe
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

Flow-diversion treatment has been shown to be associated with high rates of angiographic obliteration; however, the treatment is relatively contraindicated in the acute phase following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) as these patients require periprocedural dual antiplatelet therapy. Acute coiling followed by flow diversion has emerged as an intriguing and feasible treatment option for ruptured complex and giant aneurysms. In this study the authors report outcomes and complications of patients with ruptured aneurysms undergoing coiling in the acute phase followed by planned delayed flow diversion.

METHODS

This case series includes patients from 2 institutions. All patients underwent standard endovascular coiling in the acute phase after SAH with the intention and plan to proceed with flow diversion at a later date. Outcomes studied included angiographic occlusion, procedure-related complications, and long-term clinical outcome as measured using the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients underwent coiling in the acute phase with the intention to undergo flow diversion at a later date. The mean aneurysm size was 15.8 ± 7.9 mm. Of the 31 patients undergoing coiling, 4 patients could not undergo further flow-diverter therapy: 3 patients (9.7%) died of complications of subarachnoid hemorrhage and 1 patient had permanent morbidity as a result of perioperative ischemic stroke (3.1%). Twenty-seven patients underwent staged placement of flow diverters after adequate recovery. The median time to treatment was 16 weeks. There was one case of aneurysm rebleeding following coil treatment. There were no cases of permanent morbidity or mortality resulting from flow-diverter treatment. Twenty-four patients underwent imaging follow-up; 18 of these patients had aneurysms that were completely or nearly completely occluded (58.1% on an intent-to-treat basis). At last follow-up (mean 18.3 months), 25 patients had mRS scores ≤ 2 (80.6% on an intent-to-treat basis).

CONCLUSIONS

Staged treatment of ruptured complex and giant intracranial aneurysms with coiling in the acute phase and flow-diverter treatment following recovery from SAH is both safe and effective. In this series, no cases of rebleeding occurred during the interval between coiling and flow diversion. This strategy should be considered as a valid option in patients presenting with these challenging ruptured aneurysms.
Dynamic telescopic craniotomy: a cadaveric study of a novel device and technique
Authors: Khanna Rohit , Ferrara Lisa
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

The authors assessed the feasibility of the dynamic decompressive craniotomy technique using a novel cranial fixation plate with a telescopic component. Following a craniotomy in human cadaver skulls, the telescopic plates were placed to cover the bur holes. The plates allow constrained outward movement of the bone flap upon an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP) and also prevent the bone flap from sinking once the ICP normalizes. The authors compared the extent of postcraniotomy ICP control after an abrupt increase in intracranial volume using the dynamic craniotomy technique versus the standard craniotomy or hinge craniotomy techniques.

METHODS

Fixation of the bone flap after craniotomy was performed in 5 cadaver skulls using 3 techniques: 1) dynamic telescopic craniotomy, 2) hinge craniotomy, and 3) standard craniotomy with fixed plates. The ability of each technique to allow for expansion during intracranial hypertension was evaluated by progressively increasing intracranial volume. Biomechanical evaluation of the telescopic plates with load-bearing tests was also undertaken.

RESULTS

Both the dynamic craniotomy and the hinge craniotomy techniques provided significant control of ICP during increases in intracranial volume as compared with the standard craniotomy technique. With the standard craniotomy, ICP increased from a mean of 11.4 to 100.1 mm Hg with the addition of 120 ml of intracranial volume. However, with the dynamic craniotomy, the addition of 120 ml of intracranial volume increased the ICP from a mean of 2.8 to 13.4 mm Hg, maintaining ICP within the normal range as compared with the standard craniotomy (p = 0.04). The dynamic craniotomy was also superior in controlling ICP as compared with the hinge craniotomy, providing expansion for an additional 40 ml of intracranial volume while maintaining ICP within a normal range (p = 0.008). Biomechanical load-bearing tests for the dynamic telescopic plates revealed rigid restriction of bone-flap sinking as compared with standard fixation plates and clamps.

CONCLUSIONS

The dynamic telescopic craniotomy technique with the novel cranial fixation plate provides superior control of ICP after an abrupt increase in intracranial volume as compared with the standard craniotomy and hinge craniotomy techniques.
Neuropsychological outcomes of subtemporal selective amygdalohippocampectomy via a small craniotomy
Authors: Yang Peng-Fan , Zhang Hui-Jian , Pei Jia-Sheng , Lin Qiao , Mei Zhen , Chen Zi-Qian , Jia Yan-Zeng , Zhong Zhong-Hui , Zheng Zhi-Yong
Published: December 2015

OBJECT

The objectives of this study were to describe a novel minimal-access subtemporal approach for selective resection of the amygdala and hippocampus in patients with medically refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) due to hippocampal sclerosis, and to analyze the related outcomes.

METHODS

The authors analyzed data from all cases involving patients with unilateral MTLE due to hippocampal sclerosis who were treated with selective amygdalohippocampectomy via the posterior subtemporal approach through a relatively small craniotomy, without a neuronavigation system, at their institution during the period from September 2010 to September 2012. Data were obtained on baseline characteristics, preoperative evaluations of unilateral mesial temporal sclerosis, surgical complications, and Engel class seizure outcomes. All patients underwent memory testing, IQ testing, and language testing.

RESULTS

The mean duration of follow-up was 33.6 months (range 24–48 months). There were no deaths and no cases of significant postoperative morbidity. One patient had a mild complication. At 2-year follow-up, 19 patients were seizure free (Engel Class I outcome). Verbal memory scores obtained at 3 months and at 2 years after surgery were significantly lower than preoperative scores for patients who underwent surgery on the left side of the brain (p < 0.05). Pictorial memory scores were higher following surgery compared with before surgery regardless of whether patients underwent left- or right-sided brain surgery. There was also improvement in performance IQ and total IQ following surgery in both groups. For patients who underwent right-sided brain surgery, verbal comprehension and semantic fluency testing scores were significantly higher at both 3 months and 2 years after surgery than before surgery. For patients who underwent left-sided brain surgery, scores on all language tests were significantly lower at 3 months after surgery than before surgery. Verbal comprehension testing scores returned to the preoperative level at 2 years after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The posterior subtemporal approach through a relatively small craniotomy allows adequate exposure and safe resection of mesial temporal structures and effectively reduces medically intractable MTLE. It preserves IQ but may have a detrimental effect on verbal memory and language ability.
App-assisted external ventricular drain insertion
Authors: Eftekhar Behzad
Published: December 2015

The freehand technique for insertion of an external ventricular drain (EVD) is based on fixed anatomical landmarks and does not take individual variations into consideration. A patient-tailored approach based on augmented-reality techniques using devices such as smartphones can address this shortcoming.

The Sina neurosurgical assist (Sina) is an Android mobile device application (app) that was designed and developed to be used as a simple intraoperative neurosurgical planning aid. It overlaps the patient's images from previously performed CT or MRI studies on the image seen through the device camera. The device is held by an assistant who aligns the images and provides information about the relative position of the target and EVD to the surgeon who is performing EVD insertion. This app can be used to provide guidance and continuous monitoring during EVD placement.

The author describes the technique of Sina-assisted EVD insertion into the frontal horn of the lateral ventricle and reports on its clinical application in 5 cases as well as the results of ex vivo studies of ease of use and precision. The technique has potential for further development and use with other augmented-reality devices.
Registration of 40 Converted Germplasm Sources from the Reinstated Sorghum Conversion Program
Authors: Klein R. R. , Miller F. R. , Bean S. , Klein P. E.
Published: December 2015

Forty sources of late‐maturing sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] germplasm registered with the National Plant Germplasm System as genetic stocks (Reg. No. GS‐744, PI 674473 to Reg. No. GS‐783, PI 674512) were converted to early‐maturing, dwarf‐height BC1F3 families and released by the National Sorghum Foundation, the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, the USDA‐ARS, and NuSeed/MMR Genetics in 2014. The sorghum working groups represented include zerazera, caudatum, conspicuum, durra, nandyal, nigricans, guineense, caudatum‐kafir, caudatum‐guineense, caudatum‐nigricans, caudatum‐durra, durra‐kafir, durra‐bicolor, caffrorum‐bicolor, and durra‐dochna. Conversion was accomplished by crossing late‐maturing tropical accessions to inbred BTx406 in a short‐day nursery with selection of early‐maturing, short genotypes within F2 segregating populations in a long‐day nursery. Early‐flowering short F2 selections were genotyped, and one F2 plant with the greatest proportion of the exotic genome from each accession was backcrossed to the plant introduction. The resulting BC1F1 was self‐pollinated, and selections of early‐maturing, short genotypes within BC1F2 segregating populations were made. Early‐flowering, short BC1F2 selections were genotyped, and one BC1F2 plant with the greatest proportion of the exotic genome was self‐pollinated. The BC1F2:3 families, RSC02‐BC1‐10‐F3bk to RSC149‐BC1‐12‐F3bk, represent new sources of germplasm from the USDA‐ARS sorghum collection readily usable in temperate zones worldwide.
Usefulness of Modified Alvarado Score in Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis in Adults
Authors: Mondal Hari Pada , Hadiuzzaman Md. , Mukhopadhyay Chandranath , Chattopadhyay Shibram , Biswas Sajal Kumar , Bhoj Sudhansu Sekhar
Published: December 2015

Background: Definitive diagnosis of acute appendicitis preoperatively is sometimes difficult. Failure to make a diagnosis is the main reason for persistent rate of morbidity and mortality. Various scoring systems are devised to aid diagnosis of acute appendicitis. In some studies the modified Alvarado score was helpful, reliable and practical in minimizing unnecessary appendectomy. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of modified Alvarado score for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Materials and Method: A prospective study of 89 adult patients, admitted with abdominal pain suggestive of acute appendicitis, from July 2011 to June 2012, was conducted. Data including clinical signs and symptoms and laboratory findings were recorded in modified Alvarado score record form. All 89 patients underwent appendectomy. Final diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination. Reliability of scoring system was assessed by negative appendectomy rate and positive predictive value. Results: Out of 89 patients who underwent appendectomy, 85 had acute appendicitis on histopathology. Positive predictive value was 95.5% and negative appendectomy rate was 4.5%. 52.8% had score 7 or above and 47.2% had score less than 7. From score it is difficult to predict which patient warranted appendectomy and who may be safely observed or discharged. Conclusions: Diagnosis of acute appendicitis remains mainly clinical evaluation and it is more helpful than modified Alvarado scoring system in adults.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.336-338
Inhibition of swarming behaviour in Proteus mirabilis by Pelargonium graveolens essential oil
Authors: Malik Tripti , Singh Padma , Pant Shailja , Chauhan Nirpendra , Lohani Hema , Kumar Vitesh , Swarup Sapna
Published: December 2015

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the anti-swarming potential of Pelargonium graveolens essential oil against the Proteus isolate. Materials and methods: The effect of sub-minimal inhibitory concentrations of Pelargonium graveolens essential oil and aroma-chemicals was studied on swarming differentiation of urinary Proteus mirabilis isolate. The parameters under study were number of concentric rings and diameter of swarm fronts. Results and Discussion: The concentrations of P. graveolens essential oil ranging from 1.12-8.96 mg/ml showed a pronounced reduction in the diameter of the colony as a function of time. Evident reduction in the number of concentric rings was also observed due to the incorporation of P. graveolens essential oil at 8.96 mg/ml and 4.48 mg/ml concentrations. Conclusion: Hence, the inhibition of swarming by P. graveolens essential oil suggests its potential to be developed as a product for preventing P. mirabilis infections.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.384-388
Cephalometry: is it just an orthodontic record?
Authors: Qamruddin Irfan , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: December 2015

Lateral Cephalometry (LCM) has been a mandatory diagnostic tool in orthodontics since a very long time. Nowadays with the advent of 3D imaging, the use of this two dimensional radiographic technique is questioned for its competence. However, there are few aspects which are overlooked and should be heeded before obsolete the technique completely from the field of orthodontics.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.313-315
Injuries among Drivers in RTA
Authors: Ahmad Mushtaq , Rahman Farial Naima , Haq Md Rabiul , Nargis Nazlima , Karim Md Iqbal
Published: December 2015

Background: Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) are responsible for the greatest number of injuries and fatalities worldwide by killing around 1.2 million people each year and injuring another 50 million. Objective: To evaluate the present situation of Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) in Dhaka and to find out the pattern of injuries present in the bodies of drivers who were victims of fatal RTA. Materials & Method: This cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Dhaka Medical College (DMC) Morgue during the period January 2008 to December 2008. Specific findings regarding injury of drivers were noted during post mortem examinations. Results: A total of 2714 post mortems were conducted during the study period and out of which 813 were cases of RTA (29.95%). Maximum RTA occurred at daytime 282 (34.68%). Greater number of accidents occurred during September 90 (11.07%), followed by January 85 (10.45%). Maximum accidents took place on highways 650 (79.95%) and buses were the most dangerous vehicle causing highest number of causalities 307 (37.76%). Among the victims, 545 (67.03%) were male. Out of all victims 39 (4.80%) were drivers. Highest incidence of fatality in RTA (30.38%) was observed among the age group 21 to 30 years. Among the deceased drivers, 36 (92.30%) were literate. Considering injuries of the drivers 100% victims had multiple abrasions and bruises, lacerations were present in 35 (89.74%), and intracranial injury in 36 (90.31%) cases. Specific injuries of drivers like injury to lower limbs due to break pedal/clutch was found in 27 (69.23%) cases, steering wheel injury was present in 24 (61.53%) cases and whiplash injury was found in 15 (38.46%) cases. However, no seat belt injury was observed in any deceased driver. Conclusion: Strict enforcement of traffic law, using seat belts, maintaining fitness of vehicles, driving licenses, improving public awareness etc. can reduce this economical burden and protect vulnerable groups of people of our country.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(4) 2015 p.346-351
Preparation and characterization of activated carbon & amorphous silica from rice husk
Authors: Rhaman MT , Haque MA , Rouf MA , Siddique MAB , Islam MS
Published: December 2015

Activated carbon (AC) was prepared by the conventional carbonization and KOH activation and amorphous silica was extracted by alkali extraction followed by acid precipitation from rice husk on a laboratory scale. The performance of the produced activated carbon and amorphous silica were examined using I2 value measurement, methylene blue (MB) adsorption test, pH measurement, FTIR and SEM-EDX analysis. The optimum temperature for production of AC was obtained at 700 0C. The AC by alkali extraction method was show higher activity than KOH activation. The maximum I2 value, MB adsorption value & pH value shows at 700 0C followed by alkali extraction with 15% NaOH, which were 510.82 mg/g, 61.1 mg/g and 7.32 respectively. The FTIR analysis shows presence of Si-O-Si bond with a strong peak at 1078.28 cm-1. The SEM image of silica sample shows that the most of organic component is burnt out during combustion.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 50(4), 263-270, 2015
Effect of salts on the removal of remazol yellow by using activated charcoal prepared from sawdust
Authors: Ara NJ , Rahman MA , Alam ASM
Published: December 2015

This study was to investigate the removal of Remazol Yellow dye from aqueous solutions by adsorption on activated charcoal prepared by chemical activation of saw dust. The dye removal was 85% which was increased to 94% with the addition of 1.0 g of NaCl electrolyte for 50 mL dye solution. The data were well fitted in Langmuir isotherm. The interactions were evaluated with respect to both pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order reaction kinetics. The adsorption process was found to follow the pseudo-second-order model. To optimize the operating conditions, the effect of pH, temperature, adsorbent dosage, and initial dye concentration and initial volume of dye solutions were investigated. The obtained results indicated that the utilization of activated charcoal produced from saw dust played an important role in the removal of Remazol Yellow(RY) dye from aqueous solutions. In addition, saw dust was low cost and easily available material. It can be an alternative adsorbent precursor for more expensive adsorbents used for RY removal.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 50(4), 285-292, 2015
The Construction of Brand Denmark: A Case Study of the Reversed Causality in Nation Brand Valuation
Authors: Merkelsen Henrik , Kjærgaard Rasmussen Rasmus
Published: December 2015

In this article we unpack the organizational effects of the valuation practices enacted by nation branding rankings in a contemporary case where the Danish government employed branding-inspired methods. Our main argument is that the use of nation branding was enabled by the Nation Brands Index via its efficient translation of fuzzy political goals into understandable numerical objectives. The Nation Brands Index becomes the driving force in a powerful bureaucratic translation of nation branding which in turn has several reordering effects at organizational level. We thus demonstrate how the Nation Brands Index permits bureaucratic expansion in central government administration as it continuously maintains and reconstructs problems solvable by the initiation of more nation branding initiatives and projects and hence more bureaucratic activity.
Spécificité juridique des espaces insulaires, droit de l'urbanisme et droit de l'environnement
Authors: Le Cornec Erwan
Published: December 2015

La notion d' « insularité » ne recouvre que partiellement celle de « littoral ». Elle implique une approche juridique très différente. Après le constat de l'absence de production doctrinale consacrée à la spécificité juridique des îles en droit de l'environnement et en droit de l'urbanisme, l'auteur pose la question de savoir s'il existe des instruments juridiques particuliers au milieu insulaire pour mieux faire prendre en compte l'environnement dans les décisions publiques et privées. Cette problématique sous-tend deux questions : d'une part, celle de savoir comment, dans cet objectif de protection de l'environnement, d'urbanisme ou d'aménagement, le droit (et rien d'autre) « saisit » l'insularité ; d'autre part, celle de savoir de quelle nature sont les règles juridiques en question, quelle est leur portée, et quelle est la portée réelle des instruments juridiques incitant à protéger les îles. A la première question, la réponse est relativement simple : les contraintes juridiques spécifiques au milieu insulaire sont très rares. La réponse à la seconde question est un peu plus complexe : hormis quelques exceptions, il faut se tourner vers les instruments généraux applicables à toutes les activités économiques et à tous les espaces. Mais, dans ce cas, afin de faire surgir la spécificité insulaire dans le paysage juridique, il convient d'appliquer à celle-ci un traitement juridique particulier par un artifice de subjectivité : l'originalité et la fragilité du milieu insulaire doivent contribuer à « orienter » l'application des textes.