bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesoscale patterns of altitudinal tenancy in migratory wood warblers inferred from stable carbon isotopes
Authors: Graves Gary R. , Romanek Christopher S.
Published: June 2009

We analyzed carbon isotope ratios (δ13C) of liver and pectoral muscle of Black‐throated Blue Warblers (Dendroica caerulescens) to provide a mesoscale perspective on altitudinal tenancy in the Appalachian Mountains, North Carolina, USA. Movements of males are poorly understood, particularly the degree to which yearlings (first breeding season) and older males (second or later breeding season) wander altitudinally during the breeding season. Liver and muscle δ13C values of warblers exhibited significant year and altitude effects, but yearling and older males were isotopically indistinguishable. Liver δ13C values increased with altitude at the rate of ∼0.5‰ per 1000 m. The altitudinal lapse rate of muscle δ13C (∼1.1‰ per 1000 m) was nearly identical to the average rate of increase reported in several groups of C3 plants (∼1.1‰ per 1000 m). This suggests that the majority of males foraged within relatively narrow altitudinal zones during the breeding season. We caution, however, that the discrimination of altitudinal trends in carbon isotope ratios depends on relatively large multiyear samples. Given the scatter in data, it is unlikely that individuals can be accurately assigned to a particular altitude from carbon isotope values. Rapid adjustment of liver and muscle δ13C values to local altitudinal environments is consistent with the results of experimental dietary studies that show carbon turnover rates are relatively rapid in small migratory passerines. In a broader context, carbon isotope data have been increasingly used as proxies for wintering habitat use of Nearctic–Neotropical migratory passerines. However, tissues with high metabolic rates are unlikely to retain much isotopic signal of wintering habitat use by the time migrants reach their breeding territories.
Revegetation in agricultural areas: the development of structural complexity and floristic diversity
Authors: Munro Nicola T. , Fischer Joern , Wood Jeff , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: June 2009

Revegetation plantings have been established to ameliorate the negative effects of clearing remnant vegetation and to provide new habitat for fauna. We assessed the vegetation development of revegetation established on agricultural land in Gippsland, southeastern Australia. We compared (1) woodlot plantings (overstory eucalypts only) and (2) ecological plantings (many species of local trees, shrubs, and understory) with remnants and paddocks for development of vegetation structural complexity and colonizing plant species. We also assessed structural complexity and plant species composition in response to several site parameters. Structural complexity increased with age of planting, toward that of remnants, even when very few species were planted at establishment. Richness of all plants and native plants, however, did not increase with age. Native ground cover plants were not included at establishment in either planting type, and their richness also did not increase with age of planting. This indicated that colonization did not occur through time, which does not support the “foster ecosystem hypothesis.” Weed species richness was unrelated to native plant richness, which does not support the “diversity‐resistance hypothesis.” Weed cover increased with age of planting in woodlot plantings but decreased with age in ecological plantings. Richness of all plants and native plants in plantings did not increase with planting size or with the presence of old remnant trees and was greater in gullies and where vegetation cover in the landscape was greater. Structural complexity was unaffected by planting size but was positively correlated with floristic richness. Ecological plantings had higher condition scores, greater shrub cover, more plant life‐forms and fewer weeds than woodlot plantings indicating a possible greater benefit as habitat for wildlife. We conclude that ecological plantings can achieve similar overall structural complexity as remnant vegetation within 30–40 years but will not gain a native ground layer and will not necessarily contain some important structural features by this age. Ecological plantings may provide habitat for the conservation of fauna (through the development of structural complexity), but they may not provide for the conservation of non‐planted flora (given the absence of re‐colonizing smaller life‐forms).
Respective impact of climate and fisheries on the growth of an albatross population
Authors: Rolland V. , Nevoux M. , Barbraud C. , Weimerskirch H.
Published: June 2009

Climate and human activities such as fisheries impact many animal species. However, the demographic processes through which the population vital rates are affected, and the sensitivity of their growth rates, are poorly understood. The Black‐browed Albatross, Thalassarche melanophrys, is a long‐lived threatened seabird species. Previous studies have shown that the adult survival and breeding success of the population breeding at Kerguelen are affected by sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) during both the breeding and the nonbreeding season, and by tuna long‐lining in Tasmanian waters through bycatch mortality. Here, using long‐term demographic data from a Black‐browed Albatross colony monitored for 26 years at Kerguelen, we estimate all demographic parameters from early to adult stages of the life cycle in order to build a fully parameterized population model and predict population growth rates under several scenarios of climate and fishing effort. The observed population growth rate (1.003) indicates that the population was stable or slightly increasing, and our population model gives a close estimate of 1.008. Population growth rate is more sensitive to survival of experienced breeders and accordingly to a change in SSTA during incubation and to tuna long‐lining effort (both affecting survival of experienced breeders) than to other demographic parameters/environmental covariates. The population stability results from multiple factors and complex relationships between demographic parameters and environmental conditions, and therefore population equilibrium is precarious. If fishing effort remains stable at its current level and positive SSTA increase, or inversely if fishing effort decreases and SSTA remain similar to present values, then the population would increase. However, if fishing effort increases by 20% (i.e., to 40 million hooks) on the wintering grounds, without any change in SSTA, then the population would decrease at 0.9% per year. If fishing effort stops, the population would increase at 3.5% per year, suggesting that bycatch mortality probably currently limits the Black‐browed Albatross population at Kerguelen. Our study shows how this type of model could be useful to predict trajectories of top predator populations, and eventually lower trophic web levels, in relation to climatic projections and future human activities. We highlight the need to reinforce mitigation measures.
Relationship of stand characteristics to drought‐induced mortality in three Southwestern piñon–juniper woodlands
Authors: Floyd M. Lisa , Clifford Michael , Cobb Neil S. , Hanna Dustin , Delph Robert , Ford Paulette , Turner Dave
Published: June 2009

Extreme drought conditions accompanied by rising temperatures have characterized the American Southwest during the past decade, causing widespread tree mortality in piñon–juniper woodlands. Piñon pine (Pinus edulisEngelm.) mortality is linked primarily to outbreaks of the pinyon ips (Ips confusus(Leconte)) precipitated by drought conditions. Although we searched extensively, no biotic agent was identified as responsible for death inJuniperusL. spp. in this study; hence this mortality was due to direct drought stress. Here we examine the relationship between tree abundance and patterns of mortality in three size classes (seedling/sapling, pre‐reproductive, reproductive) during the recent extended drought in three regions: southwest Colorado, northern New Mexico, and northern Arizona. Piñon mortality varied from 32% to 65%, and juniper mortality from 3% to 10% across the three sites. In all sites, the greatest piñon mortality was in the larger, presumably older, trees. Using logistic regression models, we examined the influence of tree density and basal area on bark beetle infestations (piñon) and direct drought impacts (juniper). In contrast to research carried out early in the drought cycle by other researchers in Arizona, we did not find evidence for greater mortality of piñon and juniper trees in increasingly high density or basal area conditions. We conclude that the severity of this regional drought has masked density‐dependent patterns visible in less severe drought conditions. With climate projections for the American Southwest suggesting increases in aridity and rising temperatures, it is critical that we expand our understanding of stress responses expected in widespread piñon–juniper woodlands.
Carbon pool and biomass dynamics associated with deforestation, land use, and agricultural abandonment in the neotropics
Authors: Kauffman J. Boone , Hughes R. Flint , Heider Chris
Published: June 2009

Current rates of deforestation and the resulting C emissions in the tropics exceed those of secondary forest regrowth and C sequestration. Changing land‐use strategies that would maintain standing forests may be among the least expensive of climate change mitigation options. Further, secondary tropical forests have been suggested to have great value for their potential to sequester atmospheric C. These options require an understanding of and capability to quantify C dynamics at landscape scales. Because of the diversity of physical and biotic features of tropical forests as well as approaches and intensities of land uses within the neotropics, there are tremendous differences in the capacity of different landscapes to store and sequester C. Major gaps in our current knowledge include quantification of C pools, rates and patterns of biomass loss following land‐cover change, and quantification of the C storage potential of secondary forests following abandonment. In this paper we present a synthesis and further analyses from recent studies that describe C pools, patterns of C decline associated with land use, and rates of C accumulation following secondary‐forest establishment—all information necessary for climate‐change mitigation options.

Ecosystem C pools of Neotropical primary forests minimally range from ∼141 to 571 Mg/ha, demonstrating tremendous differences in the capacity of different forests to store C. Most of the losses in C and nutrient pools associated with conversion occur when fires are set to remove the slashed forest to prepare sites for crop or pasture establishment. Fires burning slashed primary forests have been found to result in C losses of 62–80% of prefire aboveground pools in dry (deciduous) forest landscapes and 29–57% in wet (evergreen) forest landscapes. Carbon emissions equivalent to the aboveground primary‐forest pool arise from repeated fires occurring in the first 4 to 10 years following conversion. Feedbacks of climate change, land‐cover change, and increasing habitat fragmentation may result in increases of both the area burned and the total quantity of biomass consumed per unit area by fire. These effects may well limit the capacity for future tropical forests to sequester C and nutrients.
Predicting Argentine ant spread over the heterogeneous landscape using a spatially explicit stochastic model
Authors: Pitt Joel P. W. , Worner Sue P. , Suarez Andrew V.
Published: June 2009

The characteristics of spread for an invasive species should influence how environmental authorities or government agencies respond to an initial incursion. High‐resolution predictions of how, where, and the speed at which a newly established invasive population will spread across the surrounding heterogeneous landscape can greatly assist appropriate and timely risk assessments and control decisions.

The Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) is a worldwide invasive species that was inadvertently introduced to New Zealand in 1990. In this study, a spatially explicit stochastic simulation model of species dispersal, integrated with a geographic information system, was used to recreate the historical spread ofL. humilein New Zealand. High‐resolution probabilistic maps simulating local and human‐assisted spread across large geographic regions were used to predict dispersal rates and pinpoint at‐risk areas. The spatially explicit simulation model was compared with a uniform radial spread model with respect to predicting the observed spread of the Argentine ant. The uniform spread model was more effective predicting the observed populations early in the invasion process, but the simulation model was more successful later in the simulation. Comparison between the models highlighted that different search strategies may be needed at different stages in an invasion to optimize detection and indicates the influence that landscape suitability can have on the long‐term spread of an invasive species.

The modeling and predictive mapping methodology used can improve efforts to predict and evaluate species spread, not only in invasion biology, but also in conservation biology, diversity studies, and climate change studies.
Imputation of missing values in a precipitation–runoff process database
Authors: Kalteh Aman Mohammad , Hjorth Peder
Published: June 2009

Hydrologists are often faced with the problem of missing values in a precipitation–runoff process database to construct runoff prediction models. They tend to use simple and naive methods to deal with the problem of missing data. Thus far, the common practice has been to discard observations with missing values. In this paper, we present some statistically principled methods for gap filling and discuss the pros and cons of these methods. We employ and discuss imputations of missing values by means of self-organizing map (SOM), multilayer perceptron (MLP), multivariate nearest-neighbor (MNN), regularized expectation–maximization algorithm (REGEM) and multiple imputation (MI) in the context of a precipitation–runoff process database in northern Iran in order to construct a serially complete database for analyses such as runoff prediction. In our case, the SOM and MNN tend to give similar and robust results. REGEM and MI build on the assumption of multivariate normal data, which we don't seem to have in one of our cases. MLP tends to produce inferior results because it fragments the data into 68 different models. Therefore, we conclude that it makes most sense to use either the computationally simple MNN method or the more demanding SOM.
A coupled hydraulic–hydrologic modelling approach to deriving a water balance model for a complex floodplain wetland system
Authors: Rayburg Scott , Thoms Martin
Published: June 2009

Wetlands, particularly those in semi-arid or arid environments, are hotspots of biological diversity and productivity. Water resource managers are therefore increasing their efforts to conserve wetlands from environmental degradation. To do this, they require a thorough understanding of the wetting and drying regimes of these wetlands, and how potential land use, climate change and water resource development might affect inundation patterns. Hydrologic models can help to enhance this understanding, and to predict and assess future impacts. However, for semi-arid environments, data to assist in model construction is scarce. This paper presents a new method for developing a water balance model for a semi-arid wetland, the Narran Lakes ecosystem in eastern Australia. This method combines hydraulic (improving our understanding of water movement through a wetland) and hydrologic (improving our predictive capability for inundation levels) models and satellite imagery (acting as calibration and validation data) to produce a predictive model of wetland inundation. We show that this coupled hydraulic–hydrologic model yields inundation patterns commensurate with those that actually occurred over more than 30 years. The model results indicate that current inundation levels are at historical lows, which is most likely associated with a naturally occurring drought and increasing water resource development upstream.
Programming a spatial water model for improving water efficiency in China
Authors: Fang Lan , Nuppenau Ernst-August
Published: June 2009

This paper deals with heavy pressures to save water in natural resource management due to increased water scarcity. We take the example of a Chinese watershed and investigate the water use efficiency in Chinese irrigated agriculture through a field study as dependent on investments in on-farm water saving technologies and canal water conveyance. The economic and environmental impacts of farmers adopting modern irrigation technologies and public sectors improving water transit systems are studied in particular. A spatial mathematical programming model is employed for optimization. The emphasis is on private and public investments in water saving. Water saving in a canal system enables an extension of the system and provides food and income for more farmers. The model results are of great value for policy makers and project managers, who want to optimize irrigation projects, because scenarios (for instance water and product pricing) are provided. We also provide references for farmers in applying suitable irrigation technologies.
Urban water supply in India: status, reform options and possible lessons
Authors: McKenzie David , Ray Isha
Published: June 2009

Large numbers of households in cities around the developing world do not have access to one of the most basic of human needs–a safe and reliable supply of drinking water. This paper uses the experience of India as a lens through which to view the problems of access to water in urban areas and the various options available for reform. Using two sets of data from the National Family Health Survey, as well as published and unpublished secondary sources, the paper presents the status of access to drinking water in urban India, the performance of India's urban water sector compared to other Asian metropolitan regions and the reform efforts that are under way in several Indian cities. A review of these ongoing reforms illustrates some of the political economy challenges involved in reforming the water sector. Based on this analysis, we draw out directions for more effective research, data collection and policy reform. While each country faces unique challenges and opportunities, the scope and range of the Indian experience provides insights and caveats for many low-income nations.
Restoration and river management in the arid southwestern USA: exploring project design trends and features
Authors: Gerlak Andrea K. , Eden Susanna , Megdal Sharon , Lacroix Kelly Mott , Schwarz Andrew
Published: June 2009

River restoration activities are becoming increasingly common in many communities today. Such efforts in Arizona are illustrative of a larger ecosystem and river restoration trend underway nationally and internationally. This paper examines river restoration efforts in Arizona in the context of changing federal and state agency missions and local priorities. Restoration projects on four significant rivers are analyzed with a keen look at the design features they share. Multiple purpose goals, collaborative funding and support, community involvement, and monitoring and maintenance emerged as important project design features. We found that the extent to which these features were planned and implemented in any given project varied with several factors such as size, accessibility to urban populations and the mission of the principal sponsoring entity.
What's your story? Practitioners' tacit knowledge and water demand management policies in southern Africa and Canada
Authors: Wolfe S. E.
Published: June 2009

Water efficiency research has focused on consumption rates and the tools—for example, pricing—designed to modify consumers' demand. But municipal practitioners can also be a highly influential group and have been neglected in the conventional water demand management (WDM) research.

To understand better how to make WDM policy implementation more successful, practitioners “tacit knowledge” must be identified and examined. Tacit knowledge consists of deep beliefs and values about the way the world works and is important. Grounded in practical experience, tacit knowledge is informal, unspoken and often difficult to articulate. People may not even be consciously aware of their tacit knowledge; rather, their deepest beliefs and values operate as an implicit and unquestioned background understanding that shapes how they see the world and act within it. Tacit knowledge influences why practitioners are concerned about WDM, how they act on that concern and what they say about the issue when they talk to their colleagues.

Identifying and understanding the potential influence of tacit knowledge would be tremendously valuable for day-to-day practices in growing municipalities and for government agencies that are responsible for infrastructure and sustainable development. By understanding practitioners' learning processes, their rationale for action and the organizational cultures in which they operate, it will be possible to make more informed policy recommendations.
Residential water demand modeling in Queensland, Australia: a comparative panel data approach
Authors: Worthington Andrew C. , Higgs Helen , Hoffmann Mark
Published: June 2009

This paper uses monthly data from eleven local governments to model residential water demand in Queensland, Australia from 1994 to 2004. In the sample, residential consumption is charged using a variety of structures including fixed charges without allowance, fixed charges with allowance and excess rates, two-part tariffs comprising an access charge and a flat consumption rate, and multi-part tariffs with an access charge and two or more limits with increasing consumption rates. Water demand is specified as average monthly household water consumption and the demand characteristics include the marginal and average price of water and daily average maximum temperatures and rainfall. The findings confirm residential water as price inelastic, more responsive to average than marginal prices, and more responsive to changes in temperature than rainfall. The results also suggest that cross-sectional variation in demand is related to local government-specific factors.
Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in dogs: 34 cases (2000–2007)
Authors: Granick Jennifer L. , Armstrong P. Jane , Bender Jeff B.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To determine demographic characteristics of dogs from the upper Midwest infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum and identify clinical and clinicopathologic abnormalities and response to treatment.

Design—Retrospective case series and owner telephone survey.

Animals—34 dogs with granulocytic anaplasmosis.

Procedures—Records were reviewed for information on signalment, history, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic and serologic findings, and treatment. Owners were contacted by telephone within 4 months after dogs were discharged.

Results—Median age was 8 years. Distribution of month of diagnosis was bimodal, with 15 dogs examined during May or June and 11 others examined during October or November. Camping and hiking were the most frequently reported tick exposure activities. Lethargy (25/34) and anorexia (21/34) were the most common initial complaints, fever was the most common clinical sign (27/32), and thrombocytopenia was the most common clinicopathologic abnormality (21/22). Fifteen of 20 dogs were seropositive for antibodies against A phagocytophilum. Doxycycline was prescribed for 31 dogs, and clinical signs and fever resolved within 3 to 5 days. Median time for platelet count to return to reference limits was 7 days. No owners reported clinical sequelae when contacted after dogs were discharged.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that granulocytic anaplasmosis should be suspected in dogs in endemic areas examined because of fever, lethargy, or thrombocytopenia, especially in dogs examined during the late spring or early fall. Treatment with doxycycline was successful in resolving clinical signs and thrombocytopenia.
Use of an endoscope in minimally invasive lesion biopsy and removal within the skull and cranial vault in two dogs and one cat
Authors: Klopp Lisa S. , Ridgway Marcella
Published: June 2009

Case Description—2 dogs and 1 cat underwent endoscopic-assisted intracranial procedures for lesion biopsy (1 dog and 1 cat) and definitive lesion removal (1 dog).

Clinical Findings—1 cat was treated for an interhemispheric, pedunculated meningioma with an associated arachnoid cyst. Two dogs underwent endoscopic surgery procedures; 1 dog underwent removal of an intranasal dermoid cyst with extension to the olfactory bulb dura, and the other underwent lesion biopsy for histologic confirmation of suspected intracranial granular cell tumor.

Treatment and Outcome—Minimally invasive intracranial procedures were achieved by use of an endoscope to aid in lesion biopsy in a dog and a cat with neoplasia and complete lesion removal in 1 dog with a dermoid cyst. No obvious morbidity from the use of the endoscope was observed. Rapid recovery from surgery was seen in all 3 animals, and hospitalization times were a few days.

Clinical Relevance—In human and veterinary neurosurgery, minimally invasive surgical approaches for diagnosis and treatment are gaining in popularity. Minimally invasive techniques are used to achieve a decrease in surgical time, minimize brain exposure, and decrease postoperative recovery times. Keyhole and minimally invasive approaches require some degree of dexterity and knowledge of where the endoscope is in a 3-dimensional orientation and its relationship to the topography of an anatomic region. Anticipation of complications should allow for potential conversion to an open craniotomy. Use of the endoscope in minimally invasive procedures is associated with a steep learning curve to understand orientation, topography, and normal versus abnormal anatomy.
Fecal shedding of Salmonella spp among cattle admitted to a veterinary medical teaching hospital
Authors: Cummings Kevin J. , Divers Thomas J. , McDonough Patrick L. , Warnick Lorin D.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To estimate the prevalence of fecal shedding of Salmonella spp among bovine patients at a veterinary teaching hospital, to identify risk factors for fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms, and to characterize the serotypes.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Sample Population—5,398 hospitalized cattle.

Procedures—Data were collected for all cattle admitted during an 11-year period. Fecal shedding of Salmonella spp was determined by means of standard bacteriologic culture. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for shedding of Salmonella spp among patients.

Results—The prevalence of Salmonella shedding among clinical suspects was 6.5% (50/768), whereas that among nonsuspects tested through routine surveillance was 2.5% (50/2,020). Among clinical suspect calves, fecal shedding of Salmonella spp was more likely for those admitted in the fall (odds ratio [OR], 5.9), those with septicemia (OR, 3.3), or those with an umbilical hernia (OR, 8.6). Among clinical suspect adult cattle, those with enteritis (OR, 9.9) or metritis (OR, 5.2) were more likely to be shedding Salmonella spp. Among nonsuspect cattle, none of the variables were significant predictors of shedding status. Twenty-one serotypes were detected during the study period, with the most common being Salmonella enterica serotypes Typhimurium (33%), Newport (23%), and Agona (12%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Seasonal and disease risk factors for fecal shedding of Salmonella spp were evident among clinical suspect cattle admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital. In contrast, lack of significant associations among nonsuspect cattle would suggest that targeted screening within this population is not warranted.
Editorial
Authors: Rahman Salimur , Al-Mahtab Mamun
Published: June 2009

Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p.5
Chronic microbial infections: Manipulation of host immunity as interventional approach
Authors: Akbar Sheikh Mohammad Fazle , Khan Md Sakirul Islam , Mishiro Shunji
Published: June 2009

Chronic viral infections represent major challenges in contemporary medicine, virology and pharmacology. The virus-bearing hosts are commonly found in every parts of the world and it is extremely difficult to manage these patients. In addition, considerable numbers of these patients develop progressive diseases and severe complications. Finally, most of these patients act as permanent reservoirs of virus. Understandings of viral life cycle during the last decade of 20th century and the first decade of 21st century have allowed development of hundreds of antiviral agents for different diseases. But, the clinical efficacy of these drugs is not yet satisfactory. In addition, virologists have provided conclusive evidences suggesting that eradication of most chronic virus from infected hosts may an unachievable goal. In this context, it is essential to develop alternative, novel, and evidence-based therapeutic maneuver for these patients. Manipulation of host immune system may be one of these approaches. We would discuss about scopes, limitations, and strategies for manipulation for controlling of chronic viral infections. The primary function of the host's immune system is to mount responses that protect the individual from various microbial infections including viruses. Host's immune responses also control the spread and virulence of the viruses [1]. This is applicable to viruses that cause acute infection. After entering the hosts, these viruses are localized in host's tissues, proliferate and induce antiviral immunity. These cellular events may cause damage and destruction of tissues and the host exhibit features of acute inflammatory diseases. However, the viruses are either almost completely eliminated from the hosts or adequately controlled in situ by host's immune systems. However, chronic infection is established by many viruses because the hosts induce improper and uncoordinated immune responses against these viruses. Most viruses cause persistent infection by evading the host immune surveillance mechanism. Both virus-related factors and host-dependent factors are primarily responsible for viral persistency in subjects with chronic viral infections.    doi: 10.3329/blj.v1i1.2620 Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p.13-19
Characterization of incidentally detected asymptomatic hepatitis B positive subjects in Egypt
Authors: Shiha G , Samir W , Zalata K , Seif S , Moanis A , Gabre M , Elfakhry A , Metwally M
Published: June 2009

Background: Although chronic hepatitis B virus infection is relatively common in Egypt, the incidental discovery of asymptomatic forms have not been well studied. Aim: To characterize the clinical, serological and histological liver damage among incidentally detected asymptomatic hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive subjects (IDAHS) in Egypt. Methods:We prospectively studied 70 consecutive IDAHS patients. Tests for liver function, serological markers for HBV, HCV, HDV and schistosomiasis were performed for all patients. HBV DNA was determined by the branched DNA technique and PCR. Liver biopsy specimens from 44 patients were studied and scored for activity and fibrosis stage by modified Knodell score and the METAVIR score. HBsAg and HBcAg were immunohistochemically evaluated in the liver tissue. Results: Of the studied 70 patients, 57 (81.6%) were HBeAg-negative and 13 (18.4%) were HBeAg-positive. Hepatic transaminases in HBeAg-positive patients were significantly elevated when compared to HBeAg-negative patients. HBV DNA was detected in only 3% of patients by the b-DNA technique and in 97% by PCR. Pathological examination of liver tissue revealed mild activity in 21 (47.7%) patients. Additionally, 21 patients (47.7%) revealed mild to moderate expansion of portal areas by fibrosis while 7 patients (15.9%) of them showed bridging fibrosis. None of the patients were cirrhotic. Conclusion: The majority of IDAHS subjects are HBeAg negative without elevation of hepatic transaminases. However, they should be considered as patients since viremia is detected in almost all cases using PCR technique, and histopathological evidence of chronic hepatitis B virus infection is present in varying degrees. Key words: Asymptomatic hepatitis B, histopathology, Modified Knodell, METAVIR.   doi: 10.3329/blj.v1i1.2621 Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p20-27
Seroprevalence of HBsAg among blood donarâs in Sher-E-Bangla Medical College, Barisal
Authors: Mahmood G , Debnath CR , Biswas B
Published: June 2009

Hepatitis B virus infection is a global health problem. About 350 to 400 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis B in the world. This is a retrospective study carried out in the department of transfusion medicine, Sher- E-Bangla Medical College Hospital, Barisal, during the period 1st January to 31st December 2007, among the blood donors who attended for blood donation. During this period 12,914 patients attended the department for transfusion. Among them 12,014 were male and 900 were female, age range was 18 to 60 years. Among them professional donors were 955, voluntary donors were 4494 and replacement donors were 7556 and HBsAg was positive in 0.42%, 0.87% and 1.11% respectively. Overall prevalence was 0.98%. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HBsAg among blood donors at Sher-E-Bangla Medical College, Barisal. Blood samples were collected from 12914 healthy donors. All donors were pre-screened by a questionnaire provided by the institution and passed the physical examination conducted by the medical officer in charge. Blood donors data and results of HBsAg were analyzed using the blood bank's records. There was an overall prevalence of 0.98% of HBsAg(+) among all the tested blood donors. There was statistically significant difference between sexes. These results stress the importance of screening programs that must be implemented.   doi: 10.3329/blj.v1i1.2624 Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p.38-40
Cirrhosis of liver with third trimester of pregnancy: First report of two cases from Bangladesh
Authors: Al-Mahtab Mamun , Rahman Salimur , Podder Provat Kumar , Khan Mobin , Ahmed Faroque , Barua Uttam Kumar
Published: June 2009

Pregnancy is uncommon in cirrhosis. This is however not related to the aetiology of cirrhosis and rather results from hepatic dysfunction, reduced hepatic blood flow and reduced end organ sensitivity to sex hormones in these patients. Pregnancy in cirrhosis is associated with high incidence of foetal loss as well as higher maternal mortality both during pregnancy and in the post-partum period. Here we report two cases of cirrhosis of liver with third trimester of pregnancy for the first time from Bangladesh. doi: 10.3329/blj.v1i1.2626 Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p.51-54
Case Report of Autoimmune Hepatitis from a Tertiary Centre in Bangladesh
Authors: Al-Mahtab Mamun , Rahman Salimur , Shrestha Ananta , Kamal Md , Khan Mobin , Huq AKM Faizul , Barua Uttam Kumar
Published: June 2009

Autoimmune hepatitis is defined as chronic liver disease of unknown aetiology with aberrant autoreactivity and genetic predisposition, characterized by female predominance, circulating auto-antibodies, hypergammaglobulinaemia and association with HLA DR3 and HLA DR4 [1]. We present two patients with autoimmune. The first patient is a young lady who was diagnosed with autoimmune chronic hepatitis. The second patient, on the other hand, is an elderly gentleman who presented to us with autoimmune hepatitis related decompensated cirrhosis of liver. doi: 10.3329/blj.v1i1.2652 Bangladesh Liver Journal Vol.1(1) 2009 p.53-54
INVESTIGATION OF VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUND (VOC) EMISSION IN OIL TERMINAL STORAGE TANK PARKS/LAKIŲJŲ ORGANINIŲ JUNGINIŲ (LOJ) EMISIJOS TYRIMAS NAFTOS TERMINALO TALPYKLŲ PARKUOSE/ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ ЭМИССИИ ЛЕГКОЛЕТУЧИХ ОРГАНИЧЕСКИХ СОЕДИНЕНИЙ (ЛОС) В ПАРКАХ РЕЗЕРВУАРОВ НЕФТЯНОГО ТЕРМИНАЛА
Authors: Paulauskienė Tatjana , Zabukas Vytenis , Vaitiekūnas Petras
Published: June 2009

The problem of VOC volatilization into the atmosphere from oil terminals is discussed in the paper. Investigation of VOC concentration in an oil terminal was performed in characterized spots of the main pollutant concentration ‐ in storage tank parks of light and heavy oil products. A complex analysis of the impact of meteorological elements, oil‐product‐storage tank construction, the level of filling storage tanks with oil products on the emissions of VOCs in oil terminals and adjacent territories is provided in the paper. The dependence of VOC concentration on the following parameters of the construction of storage tanks was analysed: the capacity of storage tanks, the insulation between the wall of a storage tank and peculiarities of the pontoon construction (single, double, triple insulation). The results of the investigation may be applied for the development and improvement of the VOC calculation method (LAND 31–2007/M‐11), reduction of VOC emissions in the existing oil terminals and when developing new ones. Santrauka Analizuojami profesiniai pavojai, kuriems gresiant būtina nustatyti rizikos lygį. Tirtas darbo aplinkos mikroklimatas, apšvieta, triukšmas ir dulkėtumo lygis. Profesiniams pavojams gamyboje įvertinti siūlomas paprastas ir lankstus rizikos vertinimo metodas, pagrįstas skaitiniais kriterijais. Pateikiami penkių Estijos pramonės šakų (mašinų apdirbimo, spaudos, medienos, plastmasės ir tekstilės) tyrimo šiuo požiūriu rezultatai ir praktiniai pavyzdžiai. Kaip akivaizdžiausias pavojus sveikatai plačiai analizuojamas triukšmas, įvertinama klausos praradimo rizika. Straipsnio tikslas – atkreipti dėmesį, kaip svarbu pramonėje nustatyti profesinę riziką ir priminti apie kelis svarbius praktinius aspektus, kad darbo rizikos vertinimas būtų efektyvus ir padėtų darbuotojams, darbdaviams, darbo vietos higienos specialistams, gydytojams bei sprendimų priėmėjams.
INVESTIGATION AND ASSESSMENT OF ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS OF DUPLICATORS/KOPIJAVIMO APARATŲ ELEKTROMAGNETINIŲ LAUKŲ TYRIMAI IR ĮVERTINIMAS/ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ И ОЦЕНКА ЭЛЕКТРОМАГНИТНЫХ ПОЛЕЙ, ИЗЛУЧАЕМЫХ КОПИРОВАЛЬНЫМИ АППАРАТАМИ
Authors: Baltrėnas Pranas , Buckus Raimondas
Published: June 2009

Electromagnetic fields are produced when some office, visual or sound devices are working. People, who are working long hours with computers, duplicators or watching TV, always complain of a headache or other troubles. This is a very big problem because electromagnetic fields are invisible and intangible, so people don't know how to protect themselves from electromagnetic fields. The level of electromagnetic fields was evaluated in a duplicator company “Baltijos kopija”. The following duplicators were measured and assessed: Rock hooper // mutton, Vario Print 2110, Color Laner Jet 8550N, Ricoh Aficio 1060, Docular 2060, Colorgrafx ×2, Oce 9400, Oce 9400 II. The investigation results are presented in diagrams. Santrauka Dirbant biuro vaizdo ir garso technikai susidaro elektromagnetiniai laukai. Daugelis darbuotojų, ilgai dirbančių kompiuteriais, kopijavimo aparatais arba daug laiko praleidžiančių prie televizoriaus, skundžiasi galvos skausmais ar kitais negalavimais. Tai jau tapo didele problema, nes elektromagnetiniai laukai yra nematomi ir nejuntami, tad darbuotojas nežino, kaip nuo jų apsisaugoti. Elektromagnetinių laukų stipriams išmatuoti ir įvertinti pasirinkta kopijavimo paslaugas atliekanti įmonė „Baltijos kopija“. Buvo išmatuoti ir įvertinti šių kopijavimo aparatų elektromagnetiniai laukai: Rock hooper // mutton, Vario Print 2110, Color Laner Jet 8550N, Ricoh Aficio 1060, Docular 2060, Colorgrafx ×2, Oce 9400, Oce 9400 II. Palyginimui įvairių kopijavimo aparatuose susidarančių elektromagnetinių laukų rezultatai pateikiami grafikais. Резюме Электромагнитные поля излучает видео-, аудиотехника и другая офисная аппаратура. Работающие долгое время на компьютере, копировальных аппаратах или проводящие время у телевизоров люди часто жалуются на головные боли или заболевания. Это стало серьезной проблемой, так как электромагнитные поля невидимы и незаметны для человека. По этой причине работники не знают, как защитить себя от их воздействия. Измерения и оценка электромагнитных полей проводились в компании „Baltijos kopija“. Для измерения и оценки электромагнитных полей были выбраны следующие марки копировальных аппаратов: Rock hooper // mutton, Vario Print 2110, Color Laner Jet 8550N, Ricoh Aficio 1060, Docular 2060, Colorgrafx ×2, Oce 9400, Oce 9400 II. Для сравнения результаты измерений электромагнитных полей представлены в виде графиков.
PME et réseaux d'entreprises en Italie au XXe siècle
Authors: Conti Giuseppe , Giannetti Renato
Published: June 2009

Résumé L’article prend en considération une ample littérature d’études sur le développement des systèmes locaux de PME et sur les districts industriels depuis leur essor dans les années 1970 jusqu’à aujourd’hui. L’analyse part de l’évaluation de certaines évidences empiriques du développement local et de la perspective historique dans laquelle il faut le situer. Sur cette base on passe à l’examen les principales interprétations données qui ont souligné généralement un ensemble de facteurs sociaux et économiques qui renvoient à des racines historiques précises et circonscrites. Parmi ces facteurs on a discuté ceux relatifs à l’identification des districts, aux avantages compétitifs, notamment de marché du travail, des capitaux et des soi-disant « économies d’atmosphère ».
Vers un renouvellement des démarches d'accompagnement de l'innovation dans les PME-PMI
Authors: Chanal Valérie
Published: June 2009

Résumé Cette recherche part d’une analyse des limites des dispositifs actuels de soutien à l’innovation et au développement technologique dans les petites entreprises (PME). L’article propose des axes de renouvellement des modes d’intervention des différents organismes d’aide au développement technologique. Une nouvelle méthode d’intervention est proposée. Celle-ci privilégie une conception des processus d’innovation comme l’organisation d’une confrontation collective et progressive des représentations de tous les acteurs d’un projet. Cette approche couvre non seulement les aspects technologiques, mais aussi sociaux, organisationnels et stratégiques d’un projet de développement. Cette méthode a été expérimentée dans quinze entreprises de la région Rhône-Alpes, en partenariat avec des organismes membres du réseau régional de développement technologique (RDT). L’intérêt d’un apport d’ordre méthodologique pour le soutien à l’innovation dans les PME est confirmé par cette expérimentation. Elle contribue également à redéfinir le rôle et les modes d’intervention des organismes d’accompagnement de l’innovation.
Le capitalisme familial dans les entreprises moyennes : un déclin réversible
Authors: Joly Hervé
Published: June 2009

Résumé Les grandes entreprises connaissent un éloignement plus ou moins rapide mais inéluctable entre la propriété du capital et la dévolution des fonctions dirigeantes. Les petites entreprises restent largement le domaine des entrepreneurs individuels. Qu’en est-il des entreprises moyennes ? À travers l’exemple d’un corpus d’entreprises de 100 à 500 salariés des secteurs phares de la seconde industrialisation (construction mécanique, construction électrique, chimie) de la région lyonnaise dans la première moitié du XX e siècle, la diversité de l’évolution des modes de contrôle économique est soulignée. Toutes les créations ne correspondent pas à des initiatives individuelles. Le contrôle personnel ou familial n’est pas nécessairement le fait du fondateur ou de ses descendants. L’ouverture du capital à l’extérieur n’exclut pas la survivance d’un contrôle familial.
Les premiers réseaux informatiques en France
Authors: Mounier-Kuhn Pierre-Éric
Published: June 2009

Résumé Après un bref rappel sur le développement de l’histoire de l’informatique, cet article présente les projets, études et réalisations de réseaux informatiques français dans les années 1950 et 1960, qui sont la toile de fond des témoignages publiés dans ce numéro de la revue. Dès le milieu des années cinquante, la mise au point des premiers ordinateurs en France fut l’occasion d’une collaboration entre l’informatique et les télécom, et inspira des conceptions nouvelles en télécommunications. Dans la décennie 1954-1964, les initiatives proviennent essentiellement de la Défense, pour qui sont réalisés les premiers réseaux de données. La décennie suivante voit la diffusion de ces technologies dans le secteur civil : à la demande de grandes organisations qui se dotent de systèmes de transmission de données (EDF, SNCF, Air France, assurances...), plusieurs constructeurs investissent dans la « téléinformatique » (IBM, CGE, Thomson, CSF, etc.). Exigeant une meilleure vitesse de transmission, ces utilisateurs font pression en faveur de la modernisation du réseau téléphonique PTT. À partir de 1967, le Plan Calcul apporte des crédits et un soutien politique aux entreprises françaises d’informatique. Celles-ci, ainsi que les centres de recherche, développent des compétences en matière de réseaux, de systèmes interactifs et de bases de données. Mais, derrière une concentration industrielle de façade, les divergences d’intérêts entre télécommunications et informatique relèguent au second plan la stratégie d’innovation en informatique.
Informatique et télécommunications, une première confrontation
Authors: Atten Michel
Published: June 2009

Résumé La récente et spectaculaire expansion d’Internet est trop exclusivement ramenée, quant à sa genèse, à la construction du réseau inter-ordinateurs américain Arpanet au début des années 1970. Notre propos est de resituer l’émergence des réseaux de transmission de données ou entre ordinateurs dans son contexte historique en nous appuyant sur l’exemple français. Après quelques rappels sur les États-Unis des années 1960, soulignant à travers l’exemple du système Bell et des travaux de son grand centre de recherche, les Bell Laboratories, l’actualité des réseaux de données et/ou inter-ordinateurs qui ne peut en rien se résumer aux États-Unis aux travaux de l’ARPA, nous suivrons la logique des recherches et expérimentations dans la France de la même décennie. Elle montre que pour les télécommunications françaises, l’introduction du numérique s’applique avant tout aux deux « métiers » – transmission et commutation – structurant ce monde et les travaux du Centre national d’études des télécommunications. Logique de recherche qui débouche sur une réalisation remarquable, une première mondiale, la mise en service à Lannion d’un autocommutateur téléphonique entièrement numérique. L’irruption au même moment du projet Arpanet provoque deux expérimentations de réseaux de données construites en France au début des années 1970, les projets de réseaux de paquets Cyclades et RCP-Transpac, présentés dans leur genèse, de l’expérimentation aux choix politiques de construction d’un réseau public, ce qui permet de situer les acteurs et certains centres de recherche dans le cadre des milieux de l’informatique et des télécommunications, d’en suivre la logique de développement et de souligner, à l’inverse d’une convergence télécommunications-informatique déjà inlassablement répétée, l’écart, voire l’opposition, entre ces deux mondes, un écart structurant et durable.