bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping Viticultural Potential in Temperate Climate Areas. Case Study: Bucium Vineyard (Romania)
Authors: Irimia L. , Patriche C. , Quenol H.
Published: July 2012

Mapping Viticultural Potential in Temperate Climate Areas. Case Study: Bucium Vineyard (Romania)

The paper presents the spatial distribution of ecological suitability for grape growing in Bucium vineyard (Romania), viticultural area with ecological characteristics representative for northern vineyards. The study is based on a complex methodology implying use ofremote sensing, Geographical Information Systhems(GIS),climatic data, topographic and pedologic maps.Research reveal the low ecological potential of Bucium area, specialized, traditionally, in white table wines, sparkling wines and white quality wines. Data analysis shows that 30% of Bucium vineyard (281 ha of 928 ha) is inappropriate, in terms of climatic suitability, forviniferavarieties culture; 34% of the area (316 ha) has limited ecological potential, enough to produce white table wines and sparkling wines; 36% of the area (331 ha) is suitable for quality white wines. In the vineyard area was not registered suitable conditions for quality red wines production. Huglin's heliothermal index values shows that the vineyard has climatic characteristics that allow culture of wine varieties with early and medium ripening. In terms of ecological suitability, it appears that the most favorable conditions offer Cetăţuia wine land, the eastern slope of the Doi Peri hill, eastern slope of Vişani hill, south-western slope of Bucium hill and southern slope of Pietrăria wine land.
Detection of Orf Virus and Papillomavirus Out of Samples from Goats and Cattle which were Gathered by Multiplex PCR Romania
Authors: Strugaru Oana , Velescu Elena , Perianu T. , Bocăneţi Florentina , Scagliarini Alessandra
Published: July 2012

Detection of Orf Virus and Papillomavirus Out of Samples from Goats and Cattle which were Gathered by Multiplex PCR Romania

The lesions which appear on the skin and are caused by parapoxvirus, herpesviruses and papillomavirus, depending on they're gravity, can produce large economic losses. The identification of viral species with different laboratory methods can facilitate making a correct diagnostic in identifying the infectious entity. The most common encountered injuries, especially on goats and kids, have an oral location, breasts, eyes and genital and podal. On the other side on cattles infected with papillomavirus the lesions are multiple and spread all over the body. To identify the etiologic agent from goats and cattle with skin lesions, tissue samples were collected and scabs. The virus identification was made with molecural biology techniques. The PCR method revealed the viral DNA, thus identifying a portion of the B2L preserved gene which is then amplified using primers PPP1-PPP4. For papillomavirus detection, primers FAP59 and FAP 64 were used to conserve the L1 human gene, primers that can help detect other types of papillomavirus from other species. The PCR results showed that lesions from goats were made by Orf virus, a virus that belongs to the papillomavirus gene, as for cattles the bovine papillomavirus. Studies have shown that PCR is a rapid laboratory method which can be used to identify the viral agent that causes severe skin lesions.
Some scientific publications of BPKIHS: a bibliometric study of articles listed in the Web of Science
Authors: Risal S , Prasad H N
Published: July 2012

Scientific productivity of any academic institution is expressed by the total number of publications generated by its academic faculties and the use of the publication by scientific community. Citation analysis is done to evaluate the use of the publications. Use of the publication can be studied with the help of bibliometric analysis. Counting publication, publications trends, authorship patterns and citation analysis are parts of bibliometric analysis. Web of Science is one of the best databases which allow the study in the use of the publications through citation analysis. In this article, scientific articles produced by the faculties and other international affiliated faculties of BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences have been studied. Citation analysis of scientific publications of BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences is done with the help of the Web of Science, a product of Thomason Reuters.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v10i2.6584 Health Renaissance 2012; Vol 10 (No.2); 139-143
The cysticercosis in muscles is one of the causes of lumps in human
Authors: Rai B K , Shashikar Dr.
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Cysticercosis is commonly encountered in this part of the world. It can manifest in many different form. Objective: To report a case of cysticercosis which presented with a lump in axilla. Case: A 36 year old man from Dharan presented with the chief complaint of lump in the right axilla for 9 months and two lumps in left axilla for 3 months. The onset of lump was insidious and gradually progressive in nature. The examination revealed a single mass in the medial surface of right upper arm, approximately 3x3cm in size, not fixed with the skin, slightly movable and mildly tender and another two masses around 1x2 cm in left axilla with similar characteristics as the right one. The ultrasonography showed heterogenous lesion measuring 27mm x 18 mm in medial aspect of right upper arm and two similar lesions measuring 14.5 x11mm and 11 x 10 mm in left axilla suggesting "Cysticercosis". The lumps were surgically removed successfully. Conclusion: Cysticercosis is one of the causes of lump in axillay region. It can be diagnosed ultrasonographically and treated by surgical removal.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v10i2.6591 Health Renaissance 2012; Vol 10 (No.2); 160-161
A study of vibration exposure and work practices of Loader and Dozer operators in opencast mines
Authors: Mandal Bibhuti Bhusan , Sarkar Krishnendu , Manwar Veena
Published: July 2012

Background: Exposure to whole body vibration (WBV) at work and development of musculoskeletal disorders are well linked. Vehicle vibrations are usually perceived to occur in vertical direction and are likely to cause lumbar disorders in operators. Vibration characteristics of the machines need to be studied and compared with work practices which may indicate nature of health risk to operators. This may help in developing specific action plans to control vibration related health risk. Objective: The objectives of the study were, to measure and analyze vibration magnitudes, observe work practices of Loaders and Dozers, evaluate health risk to their operators and to formulate recommendations for control measures. Methods and Material: Frequency weighted Root Mean Square values of acceleration data was collected as per guidelines in ISO 2631-1:1997 using human vibration analyzers. WBV exposure of 40 (Forty) Loader and Dozer operators in eight opencast mines were evaluated to assess health risk using vibration magnitude and corresponding daily exposure durations. Results and Conclusion: The dominant axis of vibration in dozers was found to be X (front to back) in 80% of the equipments. This is different from transporting equipment like Dumpers which have Z axis as dominant axis of vibration. A continuous change of movement in forward and reverse direction and rash driving were found to be contributory factors for increased vibration intensity along X- axis. It was observed that 27(68%) of them showed moderate whereas 12(30%) equipment showed high health risk. It is suggested that vibration control measures should be designed and adopted based not only on the intensity but also on the dominant axis typical to the equipment and work practices.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6144 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 3-7
Occupational Ergonomics in Industrially Developing Countries
Authors: Gangopadhyay Somnath
Published: July 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6564 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 1-2
Assessment of cardiac strain in small - scale aluminium casting works.
Authors: Biswas Rajib , Chaudhuri Alok Ghosh , Chattopadhyay Atis Kumar , Samanta Amalendu
Published: July 2012

Background: The occupational health status scenario in unorganised sector is not impressive. There is a lack of awareness on occupational health and safety issues and manual labour is still obligatory. Ergonomic and work physiological studies conducted among different unorganised sector occupations are scanty. Aims and Objective: The present study intended a physiological evaluation of workload in small scale aluminium casting works. In accordance, cardiac strain of the workers is assessed in actual work situation. Methods: Seventeen regular male workers (mean age 32.6 ± 10.9; range 22 – 55) years, were examined for the magnitude of physiological strain. Different tasks performed were identified including work and rest hours. Working heart rate, net cardiac cost, relative cardiac cost and recovery heart rates were determined. Tasks performed were analysed in terms of heaviness, recommended strain level and thermal stress of the workplace. Results: Work study revealed the predominant static nature of the tasks performed. Overall strain of the job appeared to be moderate in nature with mean working heart rate of 99 ± 5.2 beats/min. Recovery patterns were inadequate for majority of the workers. Thermal stress prevailing was more than the recommended level. Conclusion: The subjects were exposed to cumulative circulatory stress which might have deleterious long term effect particularly on older workers. Interventions are required to ameliorate ergonomic stressors, which indicate further scope of study.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6565 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 8-13
An ergonomic evaluation of tasks of healthcare unit personnel in different shifts in General Hospitals in West Bengal
Authors: Sahu Subhashis , Goswami Smaranika , Haldar Prasun , Sett Moumita
Published: July 2012

Background: The job challenges faced by healthcare unit personnel are psychological, temporal and physically demanding.  Studies on psychological stress on nurses are available but unfortunately studies on physiological load or temporal analysis of tasks of nurses or attendants in general hospitals in India have not been reported so far. Objective: The study aims at evaluating the perception of workload in different shifts among healthcare unit personnel and to develop better ergonomic management protocols. Participants: The study population comprised 150 staff nurses and 175 attendants working in three government hospitals in West Bengal, India. Method: The amount of time spent by nurses and attendants performing different tasks were recorded throughout the shifts using an activity analysis chart along with perceived exertion rating and heart rate throughout the shifts. Results: About 26.8% of the total working time throughout the day was spent in “direct care”. In case of general duty attendants 24.4% of the duty time was spent in indirect care. Time spent in different tasks differed by shifts. More leisure time occurs in the night shift compared to the morning and afternoon shifts but duration of shift was longer (11 to 12 hours). Perceived exertion rating of healthcare unit personnel in night shift was more compared to other shifts but physiological response did not reflect that. Conclusion: There were temporal variations of job demand in healthcare units. So, ergonomic orientation of layouts of departments, arrangement of activities, ergonomic way of keeping the records and use of proper communication system, recommended reducing the stress of healthcare unit personnel.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6566 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 14-22
Physiological changes in cycle rickshaw pullers after strenuous exercise
Authors: Manna Debashis , Thakur Sridhar , Pradhan Chandan K
Published: July 2012

Background: Cycle Rickshaw is a human-powered transportation device. A large number of people remain engaged in the occupation of pulling cycle rickshaw. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess nutritional status of the cycle rickshaw pullers and their workload by working heart rate and energy expenditure. Methods and Materials: Eighteen rickshaw pullers and eleven control subjects were selected after clinical examination. Subjects were asked to pull the rickshaw in two phases - phase 1 (before lunch) and phase 2 (after lunch) each of 3 cycles of 15 min duration each followed by 15 min rest with two passengers. Heart rate was recorded continuously using a heart rate monitor. Average working heart rate (AWHR), peak working heart rate (PWHR) and energy expenditure (EE) were calculated. Maximal heart rate (HRmax) was also recorded in the laboratory. The control subjects were allowed to work in a cycle ergometer in the laboratory. Results: There was no significant difference between the mean values of rickshaw pullers and those of control subjects in relation to age, BMI, fat% and HRmax (beats/min). The AWHR, PWHR and EE values of rickshaw pullers showed the workload as ‘heavy’ to ‘very heavy’ category. Conclusion: The result of the study will be beneficial for cycle rickshaw pullers, health administrators and manufacturers of cycle rickshaw.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6567 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 23-26
Evaluation of Cardiopulmonary Stress of the China Clay Mine Workers
Authors: Pari Amal , Dhara Prakash C.
Published: July 2012

Background: Several risk factors are associated with cardiopulmonary stress of industrial workers. Most important factors are job strain, job demand, physical effort, work station environment etc. In India, study on occupational cardiopulmonary stress among china clay miners is scanty. Objectives: The present study was aimed to evaluate the cardiopulmonary stresses of the china clay mine workers. Methods: The investigation was carried out on male workers from different china clay mines in the Birbhum district, West Bengal. The cardiovascular stress was evaluated by noting pulse rate of the subjects both during rest and during performance of different types of mine tasks. The cardiovascular stress index (CSI) was evaluated in different mine task. The work rest cycle of different china clay mine tasks was analyzed by video-photographic method. Different pulmonary function parameters, viz, FVC, FEV1, FER and PEF were measured by a digital spirometer to assess the severity of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Results: The results showed that the working pulse rate and CSI vary with different mine task. It was highest in subjects carrying china clay by head mode. The magnitude of CSI was found to vary with the change of work time and the rest time among the workers. Pulmonary function parameters of china clay mine workers were significantly lower (P<0.01) than other industrial workers. About 79% of total population was suffering from different grades of COPD. Among them, 12% were suffering from severe COPD and 60% from moderate COPD. The higher prevalence of COPD among china clay mine workers might be due to exposure of china clay dust in the work place. Conclusion: It was concluded that the china clay mine workers were suffering from high degree of physiological stress while performing different mine tasks.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v2i2.6594 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 2. No 2 (2012) 27-33
New Sources of Cylindrocladium Black Rot Resistance among Runner-Type Peanut Cultivars
Authors: Branch W. D. , Brenneman T. B.
Published: July 2012

Cylindrocladium Black Rot (CBR) caused by Cylindrocladium parasiticum Crous, Wingfield, & Alfenas syn. C. crotalariae (Loos) Bell & Sobers is a major disease problem in southeast U.S. peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production. Field trials were conducted for two-years (2008-09) at a test site (Gibbs Farm) that has a long history of continuous peanut production near the Univ. of Georgia, Coastal Plain Expt. Station, Tifton, GA to evaluate for CBR resistance among new runner-type peanut cultivars. All plots were artificially inoculated with microsclerotia of C. parasiticum after planting each year. Significant differences (P≤0.05) were found among the cultivars and advanced breeding lines for both CBR resistance and tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) resistance which was also present each year, but the predominant disease was CBR. Georgia Greener, Georgia-06G, Georgia-07W, Georgia-02C, and Carver were consistently found to be the most CBR resistant; whereas, C-99R and Tifguard were the most susceptible each year. In separate CBR tests conducted in 2009 and 2010 at a different location (Blackshank Farm), Georgia Greener also had the least difference, and Tifguard had the greatest difference, between C. parasiticum inoculated versus non-inoculated plots for pod yield. These combined test results demonstrate that useful levels of CBR resistance are currently available in promising new runner-type peanut cultivars.
Apexification with the use of calcium hydroxide
Authors: Nahar Raihana , Chowdhury Farhana , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: July 2012

After traumatic injuries the pulps of young permanent teeth often necrose. This occurs most commonly in the permanent maxillary incisors leaving the teeth with incomplete radicular development and open apices. In these cases treatment is aimed at promoting complete apical closure. At a later date a complete filling of the root canal is carried out in order to prevent inflammatory stimulators affecting the periapex. Apexification is a method of treatment intended to induce formation of a calcific barrier in an immaturely developed or pulpless tooth. The intent of apexification is to attain narrowing of the canal or closure of the apex. Apexification is indicated in young patients, for reasons such as trauma, fracture or caries involving the pulp require root canal treatment prior to the apex fully developing and closing. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.11483 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 143-147
Cd40 doesn't Complement The Function Of Epstein-barr Virus (Ebv) Latent Membrane Protein 1 In B Cells Transformation
Authors: Ahsan Mohammed Nazmul , Akhand Anwarul A
Published: July 2012

Objective: EpsteinBarr virus (EBV) latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is known to plays important role in B cells growth and transformation. LMP1 is considered to be a functional homologue of the CD40 receptor and they can activate many overlapping signaling pathways. In this study, we compared the function of CD40 with that of LMP1 in B cells transformation. Materials and methods: Expression of CD40L was observed in infected B cells with LMP1 mutated EBV. To observe the expression reverse transcription-PCR were performed. Results: This expression of CD40L did not support proliferation and transformation of B cell. Even in vitro proliferation and transformation of B cell infected with LMP1 deleted EBV supplemented with CD40L were also not observed. Conclusion: Despite many similarities shared between CD40 and LMP1, CD40-CD40L interaction didnt complement on LMP1 mediated B cells transformation in vitro. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.8175 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 112-116
Temporal Myositis with Middle Fossa Epidural Abscess as the Complications of Acute Otitis Media
Authors: Jamaluddin Jamal Sazly , Daud Mohd Khairi Md , Rabi Mahedzan Mat
Published: July 2012

Acute otitis media is an inflammatory process involving the mucoperiosteum of the middle ear cleft. The clinical spectrum can be extended from a self-limiting benign condition to a complicated disease with intracranial involvement. Intracranial and extracranial complications of acute otitis media is still occur in the modern antibiotic era and has potentially serious consequences with high mortality rate. We report a case of acute otitis media with temporal myositis and middle fossa epidural abscess which is rarely seen as the complications from the disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.8472 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 126-128
Calculi In A Female Urethral: A Rare Cause of Acute Urinary Retention
Authors: Kejriwal Gouri Shankar , Dharma RV , Madhavi CH , Sahu SN
Published: July 2012

Urinary calculi are rarely seen in the urethra and are usually encountered in men with urethral stricture or diverticulum. The case of a 23-year-old woman presented with acute retention of urine associated with recurrent urinary tract infection.  Cystoscopy was done and the stone was removed. The patient has been well, with no dysuria, and in­continence for 3-month follow-ups.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.8724 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 137-138
Congenital leukemia in Downs Syndrome- A Rare Case Report
Authors: Rana Safia , Jairajpuri Zeeba Shamim , Garg Sonia
Published: July 2012

Congenital leukemia is a rare disorder presenting in the immediate neonatal period & diagnosed at or within few days of birth.1 Because of the doubling time of leukemic cells, the disease becomes clinically evident after birth or shortly thereafter.2 Neonates with Downs syndrome have an increased risk for congenital leukemia particularly acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (FAB M7).3 The incidence of acute megakaryoblastic leukemia in Downs syndrome is estimated to be 400 times than in normal children.4 We present a case of congenital leukemia in a 22 day old female child with Downs syndrome who had cyanosis and skin rashes for 2 days. Diagnosis was established on the basis of hematological investigations and cytochemistry of the cells. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.9656 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 134-136
A comparative study of surgical management of subtrochanteric fractures in children
Authors: Sahu Ramji Lal , Gupta Pratiksha
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Subtrochateric femoral fracture is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with lower extremity injuries. There have been no studies that have specifically looked at the management of subtrochanteric femoral fractures in skeletally immature adolescents. It was the purpose of this study to investigate the treatment of this injury in this unique patient population. Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic surgery in M. M. Medical College from July 2006 to November 2008. Thirty-four patients were recruited from Emergency and out patient department having closed subtrochanteric femoral fracture. All patients were operated under general or spinal anesthesia. All patients were followed for twelve months. Results: All children achieved union in a mean time of 10 weeks (range from 6 - 16 weeks) depending on the type of long bone. Full weight bearing was possible in a mean time of 8.8 weeks. Mean duration of hospital stay was 9.8 days. The mean follow-up period was 28 months (17-48 months). Complications were recorded in 4 (11.77%) patients and included: two entry site skin irritations, one protrusion of the wires through the skin and one delayed union. The results were excellent in 97.06% and good in 2.97% patients. Conclusions: We conclude that Rigid and close interlocking nailing between the age of 9-16 years offered excellent fracture stability allowing early mobilization (early weight bearing) and joint motion in comparisons to the other groups and between the age of 6-8 years titanium elastic nail and bridging plate offered excellent result.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.9664 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 91-97
Activity related differences in the thickness of achilles tendon among four different occupational groups in Nigeria: an ultrasound based study
Authors: Egwu Ogugua Augustine , Anibeze Chike Ikechukwu Patrick , Akpuaka Frank Chinedu , Udoh Benjamin Effiong
Published: July 2012

Background: The degree of physical activity may induce strain and stress on the Achilles tendon because of its role in the elastic mechanics of gait. Material &Methods: The study was carried out to determine the effect of occupation-related physical activity on the thickness of the Achilles tendon. The effect of occupation- related physical activity on the thickness of the Achilles tendon in three phases (ATT at Normal phase, ATT at Dorsiflexed phase and ATT at Plantarflexed phase) was assessed, by ultrasound, among four classes of occupations- Labourers/farmers, Dancers, Athletes and a less active class (control group). Results: Results show that the less active (control group) had the least value for ATT (normal) (3.31±0.50mm) being almost at par with those of the dancers. The athletes and labourers/farmers had significantly higher values than the control (P=0.000 and 0.007 respectively). Conclusion: Our findings have conclusively established that occupation-related prolonged physical activity induces thickening of the Achilles tendon. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.9666 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 103-111
Michaux: Xenopathic Ontology
Authors: Saldanha Arun
Published: July 2012

The hallucinogenic art of Michaux and other surrealists should never be regarded as advocating unbridled sensuous experimentation. The affects they generate may index absurdity, incongruity and comedy – they may ‘ridiculise’ our systematic thinking – but these affects thereby serve a more serious production of concepts. Through an abstemious aesthetics of existence Michaux becomes an ontologist of the prephilosophical sort. Carefully but ambiguously he explores the truths of matter, movement, body and modernity. As Deleuze saw clearly, the resulting ontology has strong affinities with that of Leibniz, though we have to insist on Simondon's transindividual dimension to obtain the full ontological purchase of hallucinogenic surrealisation.
Samuel Fuller's Schizo-violent Cinema and the Affective Politics of War
Authors: Rio Elena Del
Published: July 2012

This essay begins by considering Samuel Fuller's 1963 film Shock Corridor as a model of schizo-violence – a disorganised violence that eludes the Oedipal, moralising binary of action and reaction, and instead opens up the violent action to multiple becomings outside Oedipal and nationalistic framings. Through the de-Oedipalisation of the violent events punctuating American history, Shock Corridor performs a schizoanalytic model of desire capable of giving free rein to the force of traumatic affections. The latter part of the discussion situates Fuller's film and the contemporary US military machine as diametrically opposed in their approaches to what we might call ‘the affective politics of war’. Several contemporary scenarios revolving around both actual war violence and Kathryn Bigelow's film The Hurt Locker (2008) serve to show how the schizophrenising operations of the brain itself constitute the greatest obstacle in the military's efforts to contain or repress the traumatic affections generated by violence and war.
Deacidification of Pistacia chinensis Oil as a Promising Non-Edible Feedstock for Biodiesel Production in China
Authors: Qin Shenjun , Sun Yuzhuang , Shi Changlin , He Leqin , Meng Yuan , Ren Xiaohui
Published: July 2012

Pistacia chinensis seed oil is proposed as a promising non-edible feedstock for biodiesel production. Different extraction methods were tested and compared to obtain crude oil from the seed of Pistacia chinensis, along with various deacidification measures of refined oil. The biodiesel was produced through catalysis of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH). The results showed that the acid value of Pistacia chinensis oil was successfully reduced to 0.23 mg KOH/g when it was extracted using ethanol. Consequently, the biodiesel product gave a high yield beyond 96.0%. The transesteriﬁcation catalysed by KOH was also more complete. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to monitor the transesterification reaction. Analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography with a flame ionisation detector (GC-FID) certified that the Pistacia chinensis biodiesel mainly consisted of C18 fatty acid methyl esters (81.07%) with a high percentage of methyl oleate. Furthermore, the measured fuel properties of the biodiesel met the required standards for fuel use. In conclusion, the Pistacia chinensis biodiesel is a qualified and feasible substitute for fossil diesel.
A Multi-Parameter Decoupling Method with a Lamb Wave Sensor for Improving the Selectivity of Label-Free Liquid Detection
Authors: Zhou Lianqun , Wu Yihui , Xuan Ming , Manceau Jean-François , Bastien François
Published: July 2012

In this paper, a liquid multi-parameter decoupling method with only one Lamb wave sensor is presented. In a Lamb wave sensor, antisymmetric modes (A01 mode for low frequency, A03 mode for high frequency) and symmetric modes (S0 mode) are used to detect multiple parameters of a liquid, such as its density, sound velocity, and viscosity. We found they can play very different roles in the detections. For example, the A01 mode is very sensitive to the liquid’s density but the A03 mode is sensitive to the sound velocity. Here, the A0 mode is used to identify the density of the detected liquid and with this density value we obtained the viscosity by the amplitude shifts of the S0 mode. This could be a way to distinguish an unknown liquid with high sensitivity or to solve the problem of selectivity of label-free detection on biosensors.
Morphology of distal border synovial invaginations of the equine distal sesamoid bone
Authors: Bergman H. J. , van der Veen H. , Duchateau L. , Raes E. V. , Vanderperren K. , Saunders J. H. , Claerhoudt S.
Published: July 2012

Objectives: To compare the difference and agreement of the morphology of distal border synovial invaginations on a dorsoproximal-palmarodistal oblique (DPr-PaDiO) projection with hoof-specific angle versus computed tomography.

Methods: Computed tomography (CT) images and a DPr-PaDiO radiographic projection with hoof-specific angle were obtained on 50 cadaveric forefeet from 25 Warmblood horses. Computed tomography was assumed to be the gold standard. The number, shape and depth of penetration of distal border synovial invaginations into the distal sesamoid bone were evaluated with both methods, and the comparison of their measurements was statistically described.

Results: Significantly more invaginations were seen on CT compared to radiography, with an observed average difference of 1.2. In none of the cases did radiography have a higher number than that observed with CT. No statistically significant difference for depth between CT and the DPr-PaDiO projection was seen, however, there was quite a large variation of the actual difference of measurements against their mean found. Radiography was underestimated when high mean values applied. The agreement between both modalities for shape was moderate to good. A very high specificity of the specific DPr-PaDiO projection for shape was found (97%).

Clinical significance: The radiographic projection with hoof-specific angle differs significantly from CT concerning the number and depth of the distal border synovial invaginations. Therefore, this specific view may not be considered useful in the evaluation of these invaginations.
Development of 12 microsatellite markers for Platycrater arguta (Hydrangeaceae) endemic to East Asia
Authors: Qi Xin‐shuai , Yuan Na , Qiu Ying‐Xiong
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were characterized in Platycrater arguta, a rare endemic shrub from eastern China and southern Japan, to investigate its population genetic structure, phylogeographic patterns, and breeding system.

• Methods and Results: Using both the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining repeats (FIASCO) protocol and the compound microsatellite marker technique, we developed 12 microsatellite markers. All primers showed polymorphism when assessed in 43 individuals from two populations in eastern China and southern Japan. Overall, the number of alleles ranged from five to 21, with an average of 14.91 alleles per locus.

• Conclusions: These markers can be used in further studies on population genetics, phylogeography, and breeding system of P. arguta.
Microsatellite markers for Saussurea gnaphalodes (Asteraceae), a native Himalayan mountain species
Authors: Zeng Liyan , Chong Lhag , Tersing Tashi , Bu Nor , Zhao Jiayuan , Zhong Yang
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed in Saussurea gnaphalodes to investigate its genetic variation and population structure.

• Methods and Results: Using the combined biotin capture method, 46 microsatellite primer sets were isolated and characterized across 48 S. gnaphalodes individuals from three Tibetan populations. Seventeen of these markers showed polymorphism, and the number of alleles ranged from two to 17. The observed and expected heterozygosities per population ranged from 0 to 0.938 and from 0 to 0.905, respectively.

• Conclusions: These markers provide a useful tool to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of S. gnaphalodes, and to facilitate further studies on conservation and utilization.
Anonymous and EST‐based microsatellite DNA markers that transfer broadly across the fig tree genus (Ficus, Moraceae)
Authors: Heer Katrin , Machado Carlos A. , Himler Anna G. , Herre Edward Allen , Kalko Elisabeth K. V. , Dick Christopher W.
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: We developed a set of microsatellite markers for broad utility across the species‐rich pantropical tree genus Ficus (fig trees). The markers were developed to study population structure, hybridization, and gene flow in neotropical species.

• Methods and Results: We developed seven novel primer sets from expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries of F. citrifolia and F. popenoei (subgen. Urostigma sect. Americana) and optimized five previously developed anonymous loci for cross‐species amplification. The markers were successfully tested on four species from the basal subgenus Pharmacosycea sect. Pharmacosycea (F. insipida, F. maxima, F. tonduzii, and F. yoponensis) and seven species of the derived subgenus Urostigma (F. citrifolia, F. colubrinae, F. costaricana, F. nymphaeifolia, F. obtusifolia, F. pertusa, and F. popenoei). The 12 markers amplified consistently and displayed polymorphism in all the species.

• Conclusions: This set of microsatellite markers is transferable across the phylogenetic breadth of Ficus, and should therefore be useful for studies of population structure and gene flow in approximately 750 fig species worldwide.
Development of microsatellite markers from Cercis chinensis (Fabaceae)
Authors: Gong Wei , Duan Tingting , Zhang Dianxiang
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed to characterize the level of genetic diversity and population genetic structure of Cercis chinensis, a widely cultivated garden plant in China with congeneric species disjunctly distributed in East Asia, North America, and the Mediterranean.

• Methods and Results: Using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining repeats (FIASCO) protocol, eight microsatellite markers were developed in C. chinensis. Seven of the markers displayed polymorphism, with the number of alleles ranging from one to four in four populations of C. chinensis. Four to six microsatellite loci exhibited interspecific transferability in C. glabra, C. chuniana, and C. chingii.

• Conclusions: These are the first microsatellite markers developed for C. chinensis, which will be further used in investigation of population genetic structure and phylogeographic pattern of C. chinensis and its congeneric species.
Dissolved organic carbon as an indicator of the presence of zearalenone in the aquatic environment
Authors: Gromadzka K. , Waśkiewicz A. , Goliński P. , Świetlik J. , Bocianowski J.
Published: July 2012

Zearalenone is a non-steroidal, strongly oestrogenic substance, which can occur in food and feed. It causes functional changes in the reproductive system similar to those of oestrogens. Due to the occurrence of this toxin in agricultural areas it has been assumed that it may penetrate to surface and ground waters and thus poses a health hazard both for humans and animals. We examined the occurrence of zearalenone in Polish surface and ground waters as well as in sewage during 2010 and investigated the relation between organic carbon found in samples and toxin concentration. The highest zearalenone concentration was found in samples collected from the river Bogdanka: 65.2 ng/l, in August. In addition, in all cases investigated the dissolved organic carbon concentration was found to decrease with an increase in zearalenone concentration.
Comparative study of water and temperature relations of growth and T-2/HT-2 toxin production by strains of Fusarium sporotrichioides and Fusarium langsethiae
Authors: Kokkonen M. , Medina A. , Magan N.
Published: July 2012

This study has compared the effect of water activity (aw, 0.995-0.93) and two temperatures (15, 25 °C) on the growth and HT-2 and T-2 toxin production by three strains of Fusarium sporotrichioides and Fusarium langsethiae in an oat-based medium. There were very little intra-strain differences for each of the species in relation to growth at 0.995-0.93 aw and 15 and 25 °C. Inter-species comparisons showed that at 0.995 and 0.98 aw growth was similar at both temperatures. However, under water stress at 0.95 and 0.93 aw
F. sporotrichioides strains were more tolerant than those of F. langsethiae. Statistical analyses showed that aw and temperature were significant factors for both species, while strain differences were not (P=0.05). In contrast, the patterns of production of T-2 and HT-2 toxins were very different from that for growth. For F. sporotrichioides, a generally higher amount of toxin was produced at 15 than at 25 °C, with a maximum produced at 0.995 aw, while the production decreased with water stress. Interestingly, maximum production of T-2+HT-2 toxin was achieved by F. langsethiae at 0.98 aw and 25 °C, with very little produced at 0.93 aw. Statistically, aw was the most significant (P=0.05) factor for the mean of the three strains of both species with a significant inter-species difference in terms of toxin production. This was confirmed by the changes in the ratio of HT-2:T-2 toxin in relation to the aw × temperature conditions studied. These results are discussed in the context of the effect of environment on the relative importance of these two species in contaminating oats with these toxins.
CD4+ T Cell-Dependent IFN-γ Production by CD8+ Effector T Cells inMycobacterium tuberculosisInfection
Authors: Bold Tyler D. , Ernst Joel D.
Published: July 2012

Both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells contribute to immunity to tuberculosis, and both can produce the essential effector cytokine IFN-γ. However, the precise role and relative contribution of each cell type to in vivo IFN-γ production are incompletely understood. To identify and quantitate the cells that produce IFN-γ at the site of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in mice, we used direct intracellular cytokine staining ex vivo without restimulation. We found that CD4+ and CD8+ cells were predominantly responsible for production of this cytokine in vivo, and we observed a remarkable linear correlation between the fraction of CD4+ cells and the fraction of CD8+ cells producing IFN-γ in the lungs. In the absence of CD4+ cells, a reduced fraction of CD8+ cells was actively producing IFN-γ in vivo, suggesting that CD4+ effector cells are continually required for optimal IFN-γ production by CD8+ effector cells. Accordingly, when infected mice were treated i.v. with an MHC-II–restricted M. tuberculosis epitope peptide to stimulate CD4+ cells in vivo, we observed rapid activation of both CD4+ and CD8+ cells in the lungs. Indirect activation of CD8+ cells was dependent on the presence of CD4+ cells but independent of IFN-γ responsiveness of the CD8+ cells. These data provide evidence that CD4+ cell deficiency impairs IFN-γ production by CD8+ effector cells and that ongoing cross-talk between distinct effector T cell types in the lungs may contribute to a protective immune response against M. tuberculosis. Conversely, defects in these interactions may contribute to susceptibility to tuberculosis and other infections.
Trisomy 21, a consequence of advanced maternal age
Authors: Osati Elisha Otieno
Published: July 2012

K.M, a 1 year and 9 month old male child from Mwanza was referred from Bugando Hospital to Muhimbili National hospital for further investigations and management. He presented with gradual onset of dry recurrent cough and difficulty in breathing for 20 months and low grade recurrent fever for 9 months. His mother was 43 years and father 45 years old. On examination he was alert, febrile (38.5oC), acyanotic, with up-slanting eyes, low set ears, flat nose-bridge, small chin, short neck, pigeon chest and webbed toes. He was malnourished with delayed developmental milestones. A pansystolic murmur was auscultated at the lower left sternal edge; and he had impaired speech, reduced muscle bulk and muscle tone with muscle power of grade 3.
Family planning and its implications
Authors: Msacky Glory A.
Published: July 2012

Background: Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest average fertility rate in the world. In 2009, the average number of births per woman was 5.1—more than twice as many as in South Asia (2.8) or Latin America and the Caribbean (2.2). More than 100 million women in less developed countries, or about 17 percent of all married women, would prefer to avoid a pregnancy but are not using any form of family planning. Currently, approximately 24.8 percent of African women have unmet needs for family planning; this simply means 24.8 million women of reproductive age who prefer to avoid or postpone childbearing are not using any method of contraception. Objective: To make a review of trends of family planning practice in Sub Saharan Africa from 1980 to 2010 among women of reproductive age. Methodology: Meta-analysis of detailed literature by authors of articles published since 1980 from various sources, including Demographic Health Survey (DHS) of 1990 to 1995, 2000 to 2005, and of 2005-2010 from Sub-Saharan Africa such as South Africa Demographic Health Survey (SADHS) and Tanzania (TDHS); and observation on the relationship between family planning use and fertility in Africa. Findings: An analysis of fertility trends in 23 countries of Sub-Saharan Africa from 1980 to 1995 showed that in two-thirds of the countries there was evidence of fertility decline, with a particularly rapid decline in Kenya and Zimbabwe. Furthermore 2010 statistics show the African total fertility rate to be standing at 4.7. These rates reflect contraceptive prevalence of these specific regions.Generally in all world regions, contraceptive use corresponds with fertility patterns. In regions where contraceptive use is widespread, fertility is low but in regions where contraceptive use is uncommon, fertility is high. Conclusion: The paper has shown that the high fertility pattern in Africa is among others, a result of the ineffectiveness of family planning programs. Recommendation: The overall low rate of contraceptive prevalence and high unmet need for family planning suggests the need for African national governments and population policy makers to rethink access to contraceptives. Correspondence to: Glory. A. Msacky E-MAIL: glorymsacky@gmail.com
Tobacco use and the cardiovascular disease epidemic in developing countries: prevention opportunity
Authors: Wambua Matheka C. , Jamal Imran
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in the world, far outstripping deaths due to malaria, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and tuberculosis. Approximately 80% of the 35 million deaths annually are attributable to chronic diseases and a similar proportion of the approximately 16.7 million deaths due to CVD occur in low and middle income countries. Tobacco use is one of the major avoidable causes of cardiovascular disease. Context and objectives: Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and is associated with an increased risk of various diseases including cardiovascular disease. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on the role of smoking on cardiovascular disease and effects of anti-smoking legislation on admission due to acute myocardial infarction. Research method/Methodology: PubMed and manual search strategies using the search words ‘tobacco and cardiovascular disease’ were used to identify articles published on the contribution of smoking to cardiovascular events and the effects of legislation. 798 articles were found of which 28 were found useful and 39 were found to be highly relevant for the review. Results: Smoking has been significantly related to acute myocardial infarction (p<0·0001) with an odds ratio of 2·87 (2·36–3·48) for current vs. never, PAR 35·7% for current and former vs. never). Smoking bans have been associated with decreases in instances of acute myocardial infarction ranging from a 40% decrease found in Helena, Montana, USA to an 8% reduction seen in the State of New York. Conclusion: Cardiovascular diseases are a major public health challenge. Smoking plays a major role in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Therefore efforts are required to address the problem especially at preventive level. Public smoking bans are related to fewer admissions for both cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Legislative efforts to reduce exposure to smoking are needed especially in the developing countries, where prevalence of smoking is rising. Corresponding author: Matheka C. Wambua, Tel: +254726933731, E-mail address: mcw102005@yahoo.co.uk
The mixing state of carbonaceous aerosol particles in Northern and Southern California measured during CARES and CalNex 2010
Authors: Cahill J. F. , Suski K. , Seinfeld J. H. , Zaveri R. A. , Prather K. A.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Carbonaceous aerosols impact climate directly by scattering and absorbing radiation, and hence play a major, although highly uncertain, role in global radiative forcing. Commonly, ambient carbonaceous aerosols are internally mixed with secondary species such as nitrate, sulfate, and ammonium, which influences their optical properties, hygroscopicity, and atmospheric lifetime, thus impacting climate forcing. Aircraft-aerosol time-of-flight mass spectrometry (A-ATOFMS), which measures single-particle mixing state, was used to determine the fraction of organic and soot aerosols that are internally mixed and the variability of their mixing state in California during the Carbonaceous Aerosols and Radiative Effects Study (CARES) and the Research at the Nexus of Air Quality and Climate Change (CalNex) field campaigns in the late spring and early summer of 2010. Nearly 88% of all A-ATOFMS measured particles (100–1000 nm in diameter) were internally mixed with secondary species, with 96% and 75% of particles internally mixed with nitrate and/or sulfate in Southern and Northern California, respectively. Even though atmospheric particle composition in both regions was primarily influenced by urban sources, the mixing state was found to vary greatly, with nitrate and soot being the dominant species in Southern California, and sulfate and organic carbon in Northern California. Furthermore, mixing state varied temporally in Northern California, with soot becoming the prevalent particle type towards the end of the study as regional pollution levels increased. The results from these studies demonstrate that the majority of ambient carbonaceous particles in California are internally mixed and are heavily influenced by secondary species that are most prevalent in the particular region. Based on these findings, considerations of regionally dominant sources and secondary species, as well as temporal variations of aerosol physical and optical properties, will be required to obtain more accurate predictions of the climate impacts of aerosol in California.