bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroanalgesia for the postoperative control pain in dogs
Authors: Cassu Renata Navarro , Silva Daniele Alves da , Genari Filho Túlio , Stevanin Helaine
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To evaluate the analgesic and neuroendocrine effects of electroanalgesia in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy. METHODS: Eighteen dogs were randomly distributed to three groups of six animals each and received either electrical stimuli at acupuncture points (EA), at peri-incisional dermatomes (DER) and at both acupuncture points and peri-incisional dermatomes (EAD). Pre-anesthetic medication was acepromazine (0.05mg kg-1, IV). Anesthesia was induced with propofol (4 to 5mg kg-1, IV) and maintained with isoflurane. Postoperatively pain degree was measured using a numerical rating scale. Dogs were scored at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours postoperative. If the pain score was ≥6, supplemental morphine (0.5mg kg-1, IM) was administered. Serum cortisol concentration was measured before pre-anesthetic medication (basal), and at 1, 12 and 24 hours postoperative. RESULTS: EA and EAD- treated dogs had lower pain scores than DER treated dogs one hour postoperatively. Fewer EA and EAD-treated dogs required rescue analgesia. Serum cortisol did not differ among treatments. CONCLUSION: Preoperative application of electrical stimuli to acupuncture points isolated or in combination with peri-incisional dermatomes provides a reduced postoperative opioid requirement and promotes an effective analgesia in dogs undergoing ovariohyterectomy.
Filling of extraction sockets with autogenous bone in cats
Authors: Silva Adelina Maria da , Souza Wilson Machado de , Souza Nair Trevizan Machado de , Koivisto Marion Burkhardt de , Barnabé Patrícia de Athayde , Poló Tatiane da Silva
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To evaluate bone healing in the extraction socket of the feline mandibular canine tooth after grafting. METHODS: Eighteen adult cats were submitted to unilateral extraction of mandibular canine tooth and divided into three groups. In group 1 (n=6), control, the extraction socket was left empty. In group 2 (n=6), the extraction socket was filled with autogenous cancelous bone from the iliac crest and in group 3 (n=6), with cortical bone chips from the iliac crest. Cats were euthanized at 6 weeks postoperative. RESULTS: Immediate postoperative radiographs in dorsoventral view showed a radiolucent area at the extraction wound. A decreased radiolucency was observed on the radiographs taken at 6 weeks postoperative. Histological examination showed formation of woven bone within the extraction socket. The percentage of newly formed bone within the extraction socket, measured by the histometry, showed no statistically significant difference among the values of the three groups (Kruskal-Wallis'test p>0.05) (group 1: 52.54 ± 15.46, group 2: 50.51 ± 5.01, group 3: 51.85 ± 9.52). CONCLUSION: The bone regeneration observed in the extraction sockets filled with autogenous cancellous bone or autogenous cortical bone chips was similar to that observed in the control sites, given an observation period of 6 weeks after extraction of the mandibular canine tooth.
Organic bench model to complement the teaching and learning on basic surgical skills
Authors: Denadai Rafael , Souto Luís Ricardo Martinhão
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To propose an organic bench model made with fruits/vegetables as an alternative to complement the arsenal of simulators used in the teaching and learning of basic surgical skills during medical graduation and education. METHODS: They were described the training strategies, through the use of fruits (or vegetables) to the learning of different techniques of incision, sutures, biopsies and basic principles of reconstruction. The preparation of bench model, the processes of skill acquisition, feedback and evaluation were also delineated. RESULTS: A proposal for teaching based on an organic model with training delivered in multiple sessions, with increasing levels of difficulty, and with feedback and evaluation during all the process was structured. CONCLUSION: The organic model, being simple, versatile, portable, reproducible, readily available, and having low cost, is another option to complement the existing simulators for teaching and learning of basic surgical skills.
Compositional divergence and convergence in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities
Authors: Caruso T , Hempel S , Powell J. R. , Barto E. K. , Rillig M. C.
Published: December 2011

In spite of the controversy that they have generated, neutral models provide ecologists with powerful tools for creating dynamic predictions about beta‐diversity in ecological communities. Ecologists can achieve an understanding of the assembly rules operating in nature by noting when and how these predictions are met or not met. This is particularly valuable for those groups of organisms that are challenging to study under natural conditions (e.g., bacteria and fungi). Here, we focused on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) communities and performed an extensive literature search that allowed us to synthesize the information in 19 data sets with the minimal requisites for creating a null hypothesis in terms of community dissimilarity expected under neutral dynamics. In order to achieve this task, we calculated the first estimates of neutral parameters for several AMF communities from different ecosystems. Communities were shown either to be consistent with neutrality or to diverge or converge with respect to the levels of compositional dissimilarity expected under neutrality. These data support the hypothesis that divergence occurs in systems where the effect of limited dispersal is overwhelmed by anthropogenic disturbance or extreme biological and environmental heterogeneity, whereas communities converge when systems have the potential for niche divergence within a relatively homogeneous set of environmental conditions. Regarding the study cases that were consistent with neutrality, the sampling designs employed may have covered relatively homogeneous environments in which the effects of dispersal limitation overwhelmed minor differences among AMF taxa that would lead to environmental filtering. Using neutral models we showed for the first time for a soil microbial group the conditions under which different assembly processes may determine different patterns of beta‐diversity. Our synthesis is an important step showing how the application of general ecological theories to a model microbial taxon has the potential to shed light on the assembly and ecological dynamics of communities.
Localization, Distribution, and Function of the Calcium‐Sensing Receptor in Sperm
Authors: Mendoza Francisco J. , Perez‐Marin Carlos C. , Garcia‐Marin Luis , Madueño Juan A. , Henley Charles , Aguilera‐Tejero Escolastico , Rodriguez Mariano
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT: The intracellular movement of calcium, through calcium channels, plays a major role on sperm cell function. The calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR), a molecular mechanism by which many cells detect changes in extracellular calcium concentration, has not been described in spermatozoa. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of the CaSR in testicular tissue and sperm cells and the functional consequences of spermatozoid CaSR activation by calcimimetics. CaSR mRNA and protein were identified both in rat testicular tissue and in rat spermatozoa using real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Functionality of CaSR was evaluated by studying the influence of calcimimetic AMG 641 on rat and pig sperm motility. Treatment with AMG 641 100 nM for 1 hour increased rat sperm motility from a score of 1.0 ± 0.1 to 3.8 ± 0.3 (P < .05). AMG 641 also resulted in a modest but significant increase in the pig sperm motility parameters evaluated by computer‐assisted sperm analysis. AMG 641 was effective in a wide range of concentrations but resulted in a more marked effect at 50–100 nM. In addition, AMG 641 did not have any negative effect on sperm viability, which was measured by flow cytometry. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the expression of functional CaSR in testicular tissue and sperm, which can be activated by calcimimetic AMG 641.
Simultaneous Accumulation of Hyaluronan Binding Protein 1 (HABP1/p32/gC1qR) and Apoptotic Induction of Germ Cells in Cryptorchid Testis
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Misro Man Mohan , Datta Kasturi
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT: In the experimentally cryptorchid rat, spermatogenic arrest is associated with the formation of multinuclear giant cells, leading to large‐scale apoptosis and elimination of germ cells from the seminiferous epithelium. Using this model, the role of Hyaluronan Binding Protein 1 (HABP1), which expresses a stage specifically in post‐meiotic cells during spermatogenesis, was examined. Cryptorchidism induced complete arrest of spermatogenesis by 2 days, and by 3–5 days many large and small multinucleated giant cells populated the affected tubules. Ultrastructure of the giant cells revealed both single and multiple chromatin aggregation, with some less compact and distorted, and others broken down into tiny fragments. These cells along with other germ cells were stained terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling positive, demonstrating strong expression of Bax and Heat Shock Protein 70. Simultaneously, there was an up‐regulation of the proprotein form of HABP1 in these cells and a decrease in the mature form of protein. The above findings indicate a possible role for HABP1 proprotein in apoptosis induction of germ cells in the cryptorchid testes.
Dipping Status and Hostility in Newly Diagnosed Essential Hypertension
Authors: Eleni Koroboki , Charalabos Papageorgiou , Efstathios Manios , Vassilios Rotas , Eleftheria Alexaki , Fotis Michas , George Papadimitriou , Nikolaos Zakopoulos
Published: December 2011

Aim:

Personality traits, including hostility, play an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, abnormalities in blood pressure circadian pattern, such as a lack of nocturnal BP fall, are related with target organ damage and increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of hostility and its dimensions on dipping status, in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients.

Methods:

The study population consisted of 114 newly diagnosed untreated essential hypertensives. All participants underwent 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in order to assess dipping status. Hostility was assessed by Hostility and Direction of Hostility Questionnaire (HDHQ). The study population was divided in terms of dipping status in two groups, “dippers” and “non-dippers.”

Results:

The statistical analysis revealed that dippers presented significantly higher score of extrapunitiveness (13.2 + 4.9 vs 11.4 + 3.9, p = 0.032), as well as significantly higher score of the dimension “urge to act out hostility (AH)” (4 + 3 vs 3 + 2, p = 0.025) compared to non-dippers. Multivariate regression analysis revealed extrapunitiveness as the only independent predictor of dipping status. The odds ratio (OR) for dipping status associated with each point increase in extrapunitiveness was 0.912 (95% CI: 0.832–0.992; p = 0.048).

Conclusion:

The present findings may suggest that hostility and its features affect the circadian variation of blood pressure in hypertensive patients, providing a promising objective for future investigations linking psychological factors and dipping status in essential hypertension.
Global Health Funding at the Crossroads: 2012 and Beyond
Authors: Nicogossian Arnauld , Kloiber Otmar , Stabile Bonnie , Zimmerman Thomas
Published: December 2011

Slow global economic recovery is affecting health and access to care by an ever‐increasing number of individuals globally. International health organizations are advocating increased attention to fighting and preventing non‐communicable disorders and equitable access to health. World Bank estimates that an additional annual contribution of 10 billion USD will be required to improve populations' health and minimize disparities. Global health policy was one of the major issues addressed at the November 2011 Group of 20 Presidential Summit. It is hoped that the Summit will also include recommendations for improving the training of additional health care workers necessary to achieve the Millennium Developmental Goals. Rapidly evolving and low cost information technology should provide a temporary solution to the severe global health care workforce shortages.
Monorchiid and aporocotylid cercariae (Digenea) parasitising the purple clam Amiantis purpurata (Bivalvia, Veneridae) from the Southwestern Atlantic coast
Authors: Gilardoni Carmen , Posadas Guadalupe , Kroeck Marina , Cremonte Florencia
Published: December 2011

Two cercariae, one of them ocellate and with well developed tail (Monorchiidae) and another apharyngeate brevifurcocercous (Aporocotylidae), parasite of Amiantis purpurata (Lamarck, 1818) (Bivalvia, Veneridae) from the Patagonian coast on the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean, are described. These reports comprise the second monorchiid intramolluscan infection reported for the Southern Hemisphere and first intramolluscan aporocotylid for the Southern Hemisphere. In addition, this constitutes the first report of aporocotylid intramolluscan stages (parthenita) occupying only the haemocoel of the gills of a marine molluscan host rather than the digestive gland and gonad, the usual site of infection.
Best Foot Forward, Watching Your Step, Jumping in with Both Feet, or Sticking Your Foot in it? ‐ The Politics of Researching Academic Viewpoints
Authors: Saltmarsh Sue , Sutherland‐Smith Wendy , Randell‐Moon Holly
Published: December 2011

This article presents our experiences of conducting research interviews with Australian academics, in order to reflect on the politics of researcher and participant positionality. In particular, we are interested in the ways that academic networks, hierarchies and cultures, together with mobility in the higher education sector, contribute to a complex discursive terrain in which researchers and participants alike must maintain vigilance about where they ‘put their feet’ in research interviews. We consider the implications for higher education research, arguing that the positionality of researchers and participants pervades and exceeds these specialised research situations.
Purposeful Sampling in Qualitative Research Synthesis
Authors: Suri Harsh
Published: December 2011

Informed decisions about sampling are critical to improving the quality of research synthesis. Even though several qualitative research synthesists have recommended purposeful sampling for synthesizing qualitative research, the published literature holds sparse discussion on how different strategies for purposeful sampling may be applied to a research synthesis. In primary research, Patton is frequently cited as an authority on the topic of purposeful sampling. In Patton’s original texts that are referred to in this article, Patton does not make any suggestion of using purposeful sampling for research synthesis. This article makes a unique contribution to the literature by examining the adaptability of each of Patton’s 16 purposeful sampling strategies to the process of qualitative research synthesis. It illuminates how different purposeful sampling strategies might be particularly suited to constructing multi‐perspectival, emancipatory, participatory and deconstructive interpretations of published research.
Efficacy of Some Organic Amendments for the Control of Ufra Disease of Rice
Authors: Latif M Abdul , Akter Sharmina , Kabir M Shahjahan , Ali M Ansar , Hossain M Anwar , Rahman M Loothfor
Published: December 2011

Nine organic amendments, namely, Bishkatali leaf dust, mustard cake, sesame cake, jute seed dust, Neem leaf dust, Neem cake, Neem seed dust, Bankalmi leaf dust and rice husk were used in controlling rice ufra disease in three Boro seasons during 1994-1996. The amendments were applied at the rate of 200 kg/ha except for rice husk (500 kg/ha). All the amendments reduced the damaged tiller, ufra 3 and total ufra significantly and gave higher percentage of healthy panicles and increased yield over control (diseased). In all seasons, due to application of Bishkatali leaf dust, mustard cake, sesame cake, jute seed dust, Neem leaf dust, Neem seed dust, Bankalmi leaf dust and rice husk the yield was increased that ranged from 61.60-67.17, 56.07-71.43, 67.98-75.98, 65.78-78.51, 62.25-76.10, 61.79-79.06 and 62.53-80.16, 61.01-71.43% respectively over the control (diseased). The organic amendments could be used as the alternatives of nematicides for the control of ufra disease. Keywords: Organic amendments, Ufra disease, Rice  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.874Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 118-120
Detection of Gamma Radiation-Induced Oxidation in Animal and Bacterial DNA
Authors: Alam M Khorshed
Published: December 2011

Gamma radiation-induced oxidative DNA damage, in terms of production of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanine (8-OHdG), was studied in the DNA samples from Chinese hamster ovary cell line (CHO-K1), bovine, chicken, Escherichia coli and Deinococcus radiodurans. A radiation dose response with respect to the formation of the 8-OHdG residues from the DNA molecules was observed by employing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detection system using monoclonal antibody. At high radiation doses (>5 kGy), the formation or detection of the 8-OHdG residues from bacterial DNA was declined. It was apparent that the oxidative DNA damage was dependent on the base composition of the DNA molecule. However, an inverse relation was observed between the dose limit and nitrogenous base composition especially the guanine residue. Nonetheless, DNA base composition might to be considered in cases of the radiation-induced oxidation of food or other DNA samples. Keywords: Gamma radiation-induced oxidation, 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanine (8-OHdG), ELISA, CHO-K1, Bovine, Chicken, Escherichia coli, Deinococcus radiodurans  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.877 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 130-132
Evaluation of Direct Plating and Enrichment Methods for Isolation of Vibrio cholerae O139 from Faecal Samples
Authors: Rahman Mahbubur , Kamal Mostofa , Shoma Shereen , Albert Manuel John , Siddique Abul Kashem
Published: December 2011

In this study, direct-plate culture method alone, or in combination with enrichment culture for isolation of Vibrio cholerae O139 from faecal samples at a Diarrhoea Treatment Centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh had been evaluated. Faecal samples of 528 patients with acute phase of diarrhoea, attended the Centre, were cultured directly onto thiosulfate-citrate-bile-salts-sucrose agar (direct-TCBSA) and tellurite-taurocholate-gelatin agar (direct-TTGA) and after 6-h and overnight enrichment in alkaline-bile-peptone-broth for V. cholerae O139 (ABPB) [6h-ABPB-TCBSA and 6h-ABPB-TTGA, and overnight-ABPB-TCBSA and overnight-ABPBTTGA]. Direct-TTGA-plating and overnight-ABPB-TTGA methods (latter for samples yielding negative results by overnight-direct-TTGA cultures) were also performed for another 18,647 faecal samples submitted for culture in our laboratory and 1,552 rectal swabs transported in Cary-Blair medium during investigation of acute diarrhoea outbreaks in the country. During acute phase of diarrhoea, direct-TCBSA, or direct-TTGA cultures equally supported O139 growth, while direct-plating plus 6-h, or overnight enrichment cultures were not superior as compared to the direct-plating. Direct-TTGA-plating plus overnight-ABPB-TTGA increased O139 isolation from transported rectal swabs. Thus, direct-plating provides optimum stool culture results for V. cholerae O139 during acute phase of diarrhoea. However, a combination of direct-TTGA-plating and overnight- ABPB-TTGA cultures was useful for isolation of V. cholerae O139 from transported rectal swab samples. Keywords: Cholera, Vibrio cholerae O139, enrichment cultures, direct-plate cultureDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.880 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 140-144
Optimisation of pH, Temperature and Carbon Nitrogen Ratio for the Degradation of m-Chlorophenol by Pseudomonas putida CP1
Authors: Fakhruddin ANM , Hossain M Alamgir
Published: December 2011

Aromatic pollutants like m-chlorophenol is toxic to the environment and chlorophenol containing a metachlorine are more persistent under aerobic conditions than compounds lacking a chlorine substituent in positions meta to hydroxyl group. Therefore, it should be removed effectively from the environment. In order to increase the degradative activity, the optimum conditions for m-chlorophenol degradation by Pseudomonas putida CP1, some physicochemical conditions like pH, temperature and carbon nitrogen ratio for the growth and degradation of most persistent monochlorophenol, m-chlorophenol by the organism was optimised. The pH optimum for m-chlorophenol degradation by the bacterium was between pH 6.5 and 7.0 and the temperature optimum was 30°C for removal activity. Carbon : nitrogen (C:N) ratio of 3:1 was found best for effective removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and m-chlorophenol by the bacterium. Keywords: m-Chlorophenol degradation, Pseudomonas putida CP1, Chemical oxygen demand (COD)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.884  Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 159-161
Clostridium perfringens: Sporulation, Spore Resistance and Germination
Authors: Huang I-Hsiu , Raju Deepa , Paredes-Sabja Daniel , Sarker Mahfuzur R
Published: December 2011

Clostridium perfringens are Gram-positive, endospore-forming, anaerobic bacteria with the ability to cause enteric diseases both in human and domesticated animals. As one of the leading cause of food-borne illness in the United States, certain C. perfringens type A isolates exert their action through the production of C. perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), which is expressed only during spore formation. In addition, C. perfringens spores are highly resistant to heat and other environmental factors. Since genome sequences of three C. perfringens strains have been annotated and made public, efforts have been made towards understanding the initiation of sporulation and identifying the key differences between Clostridium and Bacillus sporulation phosphorelay. Small, acid soluble spore proteins (SASPs) have been shown to be required for resistance of C. perfringens spores to heat. Work is also underway to identify nutrient signals required for C. perfringens spore germination. Keywords: Clostridium perfringens, Endospore, Small, acid soluble spore protein (SASP), Heat resistance, GerminationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1229 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 1-8
In vivo Production of Soluble Inorganic Pyrophosphatases in Two Strains of Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Lina Taslima Taher , Ilias Mohammad
Published: December 2011

The in vivo production of soluble inorganic pyrophosphatases (PPases) was investigated in two strains, namely, Vibrio cholerae EM 004 (environmental strain) and Vibrio cholerae O1 757 (ATCC strain). V. cholerae is known to contain both family I and family II PPase coding sequences. The production of family I and family II PPases were determined by measuring the enzyme activity in cell extracts. The effects of pH, temperature, salinity of the growth medium on the production of soluble PPases were studied. In case of family I PPase, V. cholerae EM 004 gave the highest specific activity at pH 9.0, with 2% NaCl + 0.011% NaF and at 37°C. The strain V. cholerae O1 757 gave the highest specific activity at pH 9.0, with media containing 0% NaCl and at 37°C. On the other hand, under all the conditions family II PPase did not give any significant specific activity, suggesting that the family II PPase was not produced in vivo in either strains of V. cholerae under different experimental conditions. Keywords: Vibrio cholerae, Pyrophosphatases (PPases), Specific activityDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1235 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 38-41
Production of Cellulase from Talaromyces emersonii and Evaluation of Its Application in Eco-Friendly Functional Finishing of Jute-Based Fabrics
Authors: Gomes Isidore , Sarkar Palash Kumar , Rahman Sabita Rezwana , Rahim M Abdur , Gomes Donald James
Published: December 2011

Use of cellulase for biofinishing and biostoning are standard eco-friendly techniques to achieve desirable appearance and softness for fabrics. Thermophilic fungus Talaromyces emersonii was able to produce high level of cellulase in shaken cultures using sugar cane bagasse as substrate. An optimisation of the medium composition in submerged fermentation was carried out using statistical experiment designs aiming at a low cost medium composition for enzyme production. Additionally, the influence of several cultural conditioned was investigated. Evaluation of the effectiveness of the enzyme on biofinishing and biostoning was studied by treating the jute-cotton union fabrics and Hessians with the enzyme preparation. The enzyme enhanced whiteness, brightness and softness of the treated materials. Pilling and fuzziness of the treated samples were remarkably reduced without loss of tensile strength beyond acceptable limits. The cellulase preparation was also applied in biostoning process at a laboratory scale. The enzyme exhibited good biowash effect on coloured jute-based fabrics. The treatment also increased gloss or lustre, improved fabric handle, and increased durable softness. However, the treated fabrics did not show much worn out look due to abrasion resistance of the fabrics. Keywords: Talaromyces emersonii, Cellulase, Medium optimisation, Biofinishing, BiostoningDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1253 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 2, December 2007, pp 109-114
Degradation of Monochlorophenols by Pseudomonas putida CP1 in the Presence of Growth Supplements
Authors: Fakhruddin ANM , Hossain M Alamgir
Published: December 2011

Influence of readily degradable additional sources of carbon and nitrogen on the degradation of monochlorophenols by Pseudomonas putida CP1 was investigated. The organism grew on all three isomers of monochlorophenols when supplied as the sole source of carbon and energy. Low concentrations (0.01 to 0.5%, w/v) of yeast extract enhanced degradation of monochlorophenols. The order in terms of rate of removal of monochlorophenols was 4-chlorophenol > 2-chlorophenol > 3-chlorophenol, both in the presence and absence of the growth supplements. The rate of removal of monochlorophenols was highest when carbon:nitrogen (C:N) ratio maintained at optimum level (3:1) with monochlorophenols and growth substrates. The organism clumped when grown in the presence of monochlorophenols alone. The degree of clumping decreased with the addition of growth supplements. Keywords: Biodegradation, Growth supplement, Monochlorophenol, Pseudomonas putida CP1DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1254 Â Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 2, December 2007, pp 115-118 Â Â
Analysis of Antibiotics Susceptibility of Old and Fresh ATCC Strain of Staphylococcus aureus by Standard Agar Diffusion Technique
Authors: Akhter Marufa Zerin , Khalil Ibrahim , Roy Priyanath , Masud Mir Mohammad Ibna
Published: December 2011

A comparative study of an old and fresh ATCC strain of Staphylococcus aureus was carried out to determine the mechanism of antibiotic resistance of the old one, which had been preserved in lyophilized condition. Five different antibiotics having five different modes of action were used. They included amoxicillin, azithromycin, neomycin, ciprofloxacin and polymixin B. Agar diffusion technique was followed to determine the antibiotic sensitivity. It was observed that the old strain showed the highest resistance against amoxicillin, whereas no remarkable changes in the sensitivity pattern were observed against polymixin B and neomycin. In case of azithromycin and ciprofloxacin, the old strain showed resistance up to some extent. From these results it was clearly evident that in the controlled preserved conditions, cell wall-mediated resistance was predominating, while the cell membrane- and 30S ribosome-mediated resistance were the least likely ones. The nucleic acid synthesis inhibitors and the 50S ribosomal protein synthesis inhibitor lied in between these two extremes showing variations up to some extent in the sensitivity pattern between the old and fresh ATCC strain of S. aureus. Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, Antibiotic resistance mechanismDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1259 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 2, December 2007, pp 137-142
Sero-Epidemiological Investigation on Peste Des Petits Ruminants in Black Bengal Goats
Authors: Das Kamol Kashire , Shil Niraj Kanti , Islam M Rafiqul
Published: December 2011

A natural outbreak suspecting PPR (peste des petits ruminants) was thoroughly investigated and confirmed by monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based enzyme immuno slide assay (EISA). Nasal discharge in early stage of disease course, diarrhoeic faeces and lung as a post-mortem sample was a source of sufficient virus to be detected by this technique. Convalescent polyclonal sera from the recovered animal diagnosed as PPR by EISA revealed high antibody titre by competitive-ELISA. It was found that EISA is suitable, sensitive and specific to confirm PPR infection in both field and laboratory conditions especially in developing country. In the affected houses morbidity and mortality rate was 74.13% and 54.83% respectively and observed high in the age group of 5-8 weeks, but sex difference was not significant. Early rainy season (July 2006) was the period of the present outbreak. Sero-positive animal closer to the outbreak area concluded that virus was circulating in the experimental area of Mymensingh district. Vaccinated sero-nagative animal could withstand the natural disease onset. Purchase of new animal from market and grazing in the same field with infected goats was the source of present outbreak.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1260 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 2, December 2007, pp 143-145
Mortality in Dhaka Zoo due to Microbial Agents
Authors: Ahasan Syed Ali , Rahaman Ahmed Ziaur
Published: December 2011

A total of 32 mortality cases of captive animals at the Dhaka Zoo due to various infections was detected and reconfirmed at two reference laboratories in Bangladesh during the period February 2000 to February 2006. Among the 22 different animal species studied, highest incidence was observed with gaur (15.6%), followed by spotted deer (12.5%), rhesus macaque (9.4%), common pea fowl (6.2%) and others (56.3%). A total 35 isolates belonging to six different genera was recovered from the diseased animals. Among the pathogens, Mycobacterium spp. was the most prevalent (27.8%), which was followed by Coccidioides immitis (19.4%), Escherichia coli (19.4%), Salmonella spp. (13.9%), Staphylococcus spp. (13.9%), and Aspergillus spp. (5.6%). Mycobacterium spp. and C. immitis showed the widest range of host susceptibility. Establishment of a standard microbiological laboratory at the Dhaka Zoo is necessary for early diagnosis of threatening infections among valuable captive animals in order to improve animal health as well as to reduce the morbidity rate. Keywords: Mortality, Animal pathogens, Confirmatory diagnosis, Tuberculosis, CoccidioidomycosisDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1263
A Comparative Study of the Bacterial flora in a Tannery Polluted Environment
Authors: Begum Mahmuda , Ahmed Abu Tweb Abu , Hafiz Fauzia , Parveen Sahana
Published: December 2011

The present study was carried out to assess the total bacterial load, incidence of total coliform, faecal coliform (Escherichia coli) and Salmonella species in water and soil of a tannery polluted environment (river Buriganga) and a selected freshwater fish pond environment. Samples were analyzed for their monthly variation and made a comparative investigation between the two different environments. The highest viable bacterial count was observed in tannery polluted water (2.7 x 105 cfu/ml) in May 2005 and in soil (5.7 x 107 cfu/g) in August, 2005. The total coliform and faecal coliform counts were always very high (>2,400/100 ml) in water and soil (>240/g) of tannery polluted area as measured by the most probable number (MPN) method. Salmonella was always present in tannery polluted samples, and occasionally in fresh water pond samples. It was also observed that tannery polluted environment was heavily polluted due to presence of large number of pathogenic bacteria as a result of tannery wastes discharged into the area. This poses serious threats to aquatic organisms, especially fish, and also for human being living in the Hazaribagh area.Keywords: Bacterial flora, Tannery polluted environment, Freshwater fish pondDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1264
Construction and Operation of a Ventilated Hood System for Measuring Greenhouse Gas and Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from Cattle
Authors: Place Sara E. , Pan Yuee , Zhao Yongjing , Mitloehner Frank M.
Published: December 2011

Recent interest in greenhouse gas emissions from ruminants, such as cattle, has spawned a need for affordable, precise, and accurate methods for the measurement of gaseous emissions arising from enteric fermentation. A new head hood system for cattle designed to capture and quantify emissions was recently developed at the University of California, Davis. The system consists of two head hoods, two vacuum pumps, and an instrumentation cabinet housing the required data collection equipment. This system has the capability of measuring carbon dioxide, methane, ethanol, methanol, water vapor, nitrous oxide, acetic acid emissions and oxygen consumption in real-time. A unique aspect of the hoods is the front, back, and sides are made of clear polycarbonate sheeting allowing the cattle a full range of vision during gas sampling. Recovery rates for these slightly negative pressure chambers were measured ranging from 97.6 to 99.3 percent. This system can capture high quality data for use in improving emission inventories and evaluating gaseous emission mitigation strategies.
Dynamics of Protein Phosphatase Gene Expression in Corbicula fluminea Exposed to Microcystin-LR and to Toxic Microcystis aeruginosa Cells
Authors: Martins José Carlos , Machado João , Martins António , Azevedo Joana , OlivaTeles Luís , Vasconcelos Vitor
Published: December 2011

This study investigated the in vivo effects of microcystins on gene expression of several phosphoprotein phosphatases (PPP) in the freshwater clam Corbicula fluminea with two different exposure scenarios. Clams were exposed for 96 h to 5 µg L−1 of dissolved microcystin-LR and the relative changes of gene expression of three different types of PPP (PPP1, 2 and 4) were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR. The results showed a significant induction of PPP2 gene expression in the visceral mass. In contrast, the cyanotoxin did not cause any significant changes on PPP1 and PPP4 gene expression. Based on these results, we studied alterations in transcriptional patterns in parallel with enzymatic activity of C. fluminea for PPP2, induced by a Microcystis aeruginosa toxic strain (1 × 105 cells cm−3) during 96 h. The relative changes of gene expression and enzyme activity in visceral mass were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and colorimetric assays respectively. The clams exhibited a significant reduction of PPP2 activity with a concomitant enhancement of gene expression. Considering all the results we can conclude that the exposure to an ecologically relevant concentration of pure or intracellular microcystins (-LR) promoted an in vivo effect on PPP2 gene expression in C. fluminea.
Heat Conduction in a Functionally Graded Plate Subjected to Finite Cooling/Heating Rates: An Asymptotic Solution
Authors: Jin Zhihe
Published: December 2011

This work investigates transient heat conduction in a functionally graded plate (FGM plate) subjected to gradual cooling/heating at its boundaries. The thermal properties of the FGM are assumed to be continuous and piecewise differentiable functions of the coordinate in the plate thickness direction. A linear ramp function describes the cooling/heating rates at the plate boundaries. A multi-layered material model and Laplace transform are employed to obtain the transformed temperatures at the interfaces between the layers. An asymptotic analysis and an integration technique are then used to obtain a closed form asymptotic solution of the temperature field in the FGM plate for short times. The thermal stress intensity factor (TSIF) for an edge crack in the FGM plate calculated based on the asymptotic temperature solution shows that the asymptotic solution can capture the peak TSIFs under the finite cooling rate conditions.
‘Heat-Treatment Aqueous Two Phase System’ for Purification of Serine Protease from Kesinai (Streblus asper) Leaves
Authors: Mehrnoush Amid , Mustafa Shuhaimi , Yazid Abdul Manap Mohd
Published: December 2011

A ‘Heat treatment aqueous two phase system’ was employed for the first time to purify serine protease from kesinai (Streblus asper) leaves. In this study, introduction of heat treatment procedure in serine protease purification was investigated. In addition, the effects of different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol (PEG 4000, 6000 and 8000) at concentrations of 8, 16 and 21% (w/w) as well as salts (Na-citrate, MgSO4 and K2HPO4) at concentrations of 12, 15, 18% (w/w) on serine protease partition behavior were studied. Optimum conditions for serine protease purification were achieved in the PEG-rich phase with composition of 16% PEG6000-15% MgSO4. Also, thermal treatment of kesinai leaves at 55 °C for 15 min resulted in higher purity and recovery yield compared to the non-heat treatment sample. Furthermore, this study investigated the effects of various concentrations of NaCl addition (2, 4, 6 and 8% w/w) and different pH (4, 7 and 9) on the optimization of the system to obtain high yields of the enzyme. The recovery of serine protease was significantly enhanced in the presence of 4% (w/w) of NaCl at pH 7.0. Based on this system, the purification factor was increased 14.4 fold and achieved a high yield of 96.7%.
A Carotenoid Health Index Based on Plasma Carotenoids and Health Outcomes
Authors: Donaldson Michael S.
Published: December 2011

While there have been many studies on health outcomes that have included measurements of plasma carotenoids, this data has not been reviewed and assembled into a useful form. In this review sixty-two studies of plasma carotenoids and health outcomes, mostly prospective cohort studies or population-based case-control studies, are analyzed together to establish a carotenoid health index. Five cutoff points are established across the percentiles of carotenoid concentrations in populations, from the tenth to ninetieth percentile. The cutoff points (mean ± standard error of the mean) are 1.11 ± 0.08, 1.47 ± 0.08, 1.89 ± 0.08, 2.52 ± 0.13, and 3.07 ± 0.20 µM. For all cause mortality there seems to be a low threshold effect with protection above every cutoff point but the lowest. But for metabolic syndrome and cancer outcomes there tends to be significant positive health outcomes only above the higher cutoff points, perhaps as a triage effect. Based on this data a carotenoid health index is proposed with risk categories as follows: very high risk: < 1 µM, high risk: 1–1.5 µM, moderate risk: 1.5–2.5 µM, low risk: 2.5–4 µM, and very low risk: > 4 µM. Over 95 percent of the USA population falls into the moderate or high risk category of the carotenoid health index.
Sliding Mode Variable Structure for Generator Excitation Control Based on the ESO
Authors: Zhang Yu Hui , Han Chang Bing , Li Tian Yun
Published: December 2011

In this paper, a new ESO sliding mode controller that can improve the system stability was designed ,as to the strong nonlinear of generator excitation system and the characteristics of vulnerable to external disturbance, which application of feedback linearization, ESO and sliding model variable structure control theory. Firstly, it realized to linearization for nonlinear mould based on the feedback linearization theory, then it provide dynamic compensation for generator excitation system through constructing extended state observation device (ESO). The methods of factorial is used to design sliding mode switch function, theoretically, it guarantee generator rotor equation with expectations of poles. In order to reduce chattering ,through index near rate and quasi sliding mode control dynamic method to get the sliding control rate, it make the form conciseness, The results of simulation show that the speed , accuracy and stability of system are significantly improved by controller in dynamic and static . Introduction
Research on Single Phase Photovoltaic Generation under Grid-Connected Inverter
Authors: Wang Yi Jun , Sui Lin Llin
Published: December 2011

The grid-connected photovoltaic system is a trend of photovoltaic system development. According to the character of solar array,we designed a novel grid-connected photovoltaic inverter with the function of Maximum Power Point Tracking.The inverter consist s of a DC-DC converter and a DC-AC inverter and the two parts are combined by a Dclink. The part of control achieve synchronization sinusoidal current output with the network voltage.
Study on Power Balance Control in Full Hybrid System
Authors: Wang Dong Ping , Li Shun Ming
Published: December 2011

As the most energy-saving hybrid system in the world, the full hybrid system has high research value. On the basis of the mechanical structural analysis of one new full hybrid system, studied its control strategy and analyzed the control algorithm for its power balance in the five working modes by means of simulated equivalent lever. It is hoped that this could provide technical support for the development of domestic full hybrid cars.
Motion Control of Mobile Robot Based on Immune Clonal Algorithm Evolved by Virus
Authors: Shen Yi , Wang Qi , Ye Zhao Li , Chen Juan , Yuan Ming Xin
Published: December 2011

To solve the motion control of mobile robot, a PID control optimized by improved immune clonal algorithm is presented. On the basis of immune clonal algorithm, a new virus evolutionary clonal algorithm (VECA) is provided firstly. The VECA focuses on the virus infection of population after immune mutation, which improves the population diversity and strengths the local search ability of immune clonal algorithm. Then the proposed VECA is used to optimize the algorithm parameters of PID control strategy for the robot motion. The simulation results show that VECA can realize the optimization of PID parameters and improve the control precision of path track.
The Three-Dimensional Entity Creation Algorithm for Surface Reconstruction Based on Two-Dimensional Contour Lines
Authors: Ning Chao , Xiang Zhong Lin , Wang Yan , Zhang Sha
Published: December 2011

By the use of "cut and suture" algorithm and the introduction of control points, a three-dimensional entity creation algorithm was proposed, with the characteristics of the local flat taken into account. This method cut the adjacent contour lines into two parallel line segments through the automatic search of feature contour's control points (or human interaction selection). After the construction of unconstrained Delaunay triangulation network on the basis of lines' planar points, line sections were sutured from the incisions, followed by the completion the three-dimensional entity surface reconstruction of contours. The multi-layers ore profile data based on drilling geological interpretation were tested. The results show that this algorithm is fast and reliable. The reconstructed three-dimensional surface is smooth and natural, similar to the actual surface morphology.The method bears a practical merit for assisting the interpretation of three-dimensional geological forms in geological survey.
Solutions of Fuel Cell Measurement & Control System Based on Virtual Instrument Technology
Authors: Zeng Jie , Luo Jin Xiu , Xie Wen Hao
Published: December 2011

The research is about the design of fuel cell measurement & control system based on the graphical and virtual instrument technology. The hardware platform of this system is mainly based on NI Company's data acquisition products and the software design is based on the development environment of LabView (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench). To guarantee the data transmission's accuracy and immediacy, CAN bus and Ethernet are used for the communication between the control modules and the host computer. Through the test, this system meets the requirements of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell's measurement & control. And this system has many advantages, such as friendly Human-Machine Interaction, stability, reliability and anti-electromagnetic interference.
Circularity Error Evaluation Based on Differential Evolution Algorithm
Authors: Wang Dong Xia , Song Ai Guo , Wen Xiu Lan , Wang Feng Lin
Published: December 2011

An algorithm based on the differential evolutionary (DE) computation is proposed to evaluate circularity error. It is a heuristic evolutionary algorithm based on population optimization .In the meantime, the suggested method is used to solve the minimum zone circularity error. Compared with other methods, the results show the presented method has very strong self-adaptive ability to environment and better global convergence. Examples proves that the proposed method is effective, convergence and robustness in the process of optimization. And this method makes the circularity error evaluation more accurate.
Fracture Mechanics Analysis of the Dynamic Stress Intensity Factor of 3-Point Bending Specimen Suffering Cyclic Loads
Authors: Huang Ya Yu , Hu Xiang Ping , Liao Tao Hong
Published: December 2011

Fracture mechanics analysis of the Dynamic Stress Intensity Factor of a pre-cracked 3-Point Bending Specimen suffering cyclic loads has been studied. Using the theoretical equivalent system of the pre-cracked 3-Point Bending Specimen, the Dynamic Stress Intensity Factor could be obtained theoretically. The finite element method was then applied to study the dynamic behaviors of the Dynamic Stress Intensity Factor under different cyclic loads' conditions using the standard software ABAQUS. The results have also been analyzed and discussed, which provided a deeper view for the fracture characteristics of the materials and could be used to guide further researches and practical engineering design.
Graphitization Kinetic of Hypoeutectoid Graphitized Free Cutting Steel
Authors: Zhang Yong Jun , Han Jing Tao , Wang Hui Feng
Published: December 2011

Development of low-sulfur and Pb-free hypoeutectoid graphitized free cutting steel is significant because the use of S or Pb free-cutting steel can result in serious pollution. Due to graphitization process in hypoeutectoid steel is very slowly, so it is crucial to accelerate the graphitization process. The tested steel is prepared based on that graphitization can be accelerated by increasing nuclei of graphite. On the base of indirect observation on graphite particles in the sample by OM and quantitative metallography for different graphitization times, the kinetic curve was drawn the graphitization process of tested sample, it matches the Avrami eqution well.
Explosion Simulation and Analysis of Coal Mine Rescue Capsule
Authors: Yang Xu Dong , Jin Liang Liang , Li Jia Chun , Sun Dong
Published: December 2011

Coal mine rescue capsules, whose structural strength defines miners' safety directly, are becoming important equipments for miners' underground escaping. In order to improve the rescue capsule's strength, in this study the finite element model was established in ABAQUS environment, and the influence on rescue capsule made by the pressure of gas explosion was obtained by using explicit integration method. The maximum stress of rescue capsule appears at the corner where it has stress singularity and the central part of the stiffeners where the stress reached the yield strength. But the overall stress is within the allowable range.