bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of flyer speed on yarn breakages in production of jute yarn
Authors: Mahabubuzzaman AKM , Miazi Md Osman Ghani , Khan Ayub Nabi
Published: February 2010

In Bangladesh, jute mills are producing conventional yarns heavier than 275 tex. These are used as hessian, sacking, carpet backing cloth etc. For diversified uses of jute it is most essential to produce medium count yarn of 241 to 275 tex. In this regard, slip draft spinning machine has been studied. This machine is capable to produce yarn of 241 to 280 tex at flyer speed of 2900 rpm to 4850 rpm. But there is a relation between flyer speed and yarn breakages of the machine. In addition spinning efficiency of the machine also depends on the yarn breakages. Through a series of experiment, a relation has been established between flyer speed and yarn breakages of the experimental machine for production of jute yarn. From the experimental observation, it shows that for production of 241 tex jute yarn 4700 rpm flyer speed is the most suitable speed and 4800 rpm flyer speed is the most suitable speed for production of 275 tex jute yarn. In addition productivity of the machine also maximum at that flyer speed of the machine. In this experimental study, it was found that at 4850 rpm it was very difficult to spin yarn due to its random breakages. That consequently lowered the productivity. Therefore, it is necessary to select proper flyer speed for the production of yarn of particular linear density (tex). It was also observed that the number of breakages increased with the increase of flyer speed. At 2900-rpm flyer speed, the yarn breakage was 0.8/ spindle-hr and at 4850 rpm the yarn breakages is 3.5/spindle-hr. for producing 241 tex jute yarn. Almost all jute mills of Bangladesh have been slip draft spinning machine. Using proper flyer speed, which was found from the experiment, can use the machine in production of medium count jute yarn. The produced yarn can replace the synthetic/manmade fibre in the world textile market. Key Words: Spinning, Tex, Productivity, yarn and Breakages.   DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v4i2.4364 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.4(2) 2009 pp.23-27
Linear differential algebraic equations with constant coefficients
Authors: Hossain M Sahadet , Rahman M Mostafizur
Published: February 2010

Differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) arise in a variety of applications. Their analysis and numerical treatment, therefore, plays an important role in modern mathematics. The paper gives an introduction to the topics of DAEs. Examples of DAEs are considered showing their importance for practical problems. Some essential concepts that are really essential for understanding the DAE systems are introduced. The canonical forms of DAEs are discussed widely to make them more efficient and easy for practical use. Also some numerical examples are discussed to clarify the existence and uniqueness of the system's solutions. Keywords: differential-algebraic equations, index concept, canonical forms. DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v4i2.4365 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.4(2) 2009 pp.28-35
ASL characters recognition using person specific subspace method
Authors: Hasanuzzaman Md , Tareeq SM , Bhuiyan MA , Shirai Y , Ueno H
Published: February 2010

This paper presents a person-specific subspace method for ASL characters recognition. To implement this person specific subspace method for ASL characters recognition the system first recognizes the faces and then uses skin-color segmentation method for hand poses segmentation. From the segmented hand poses the system recognizes ASL characters using both PCA and person-specific subspace method separately. Experiment result shows that the classification accuracy of person-specific subspace method is better than general PCA method. The experiment result also shows that person-specific subspace method is faster than general PCA method. Key Words: ASL character, Face recognition, PCA, Person-specific subspace method DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v4i2.4366 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.4(2) 2009 pp.39-52
Impact of consistent fibre properties on optimization of fabric barré
Authors: Rashid Md Sanuwar
Published: February 2010

Cotton is a natural fibre. It's growth depends upon the seasonal weather, climate condition and affection of paste and insects. So the properties of cotton fibres vary not only from lot to lot but also in same lot. The properties such as Micronaire, color grade, maturity measure the ability of dye absorbency of fibre. So if there is high variation of these properties in cotton then a significant variation of dye absorbency in fabric is observed. So the fabric, made form cotton yarn having inconsistent properties, generate complain of barré marks known as patta to our local people. To eliminate or minimize the problem of barré we must have to ensure the uniform distribution of cotton properties throughout the yarn manufacturing stages. And Bale Management is the procedure of determining mix laydowns by maintaining an appropriate combination of cotton properties with consistency through several mixes. Short and long term variation of fibre properties with in and between mixes is responsible for fabric barré which is possible to avoid by bale management. Keywords: Barré, micronaire, color grade, immaturity, mixing, laydown. DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v4i2.4367 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.4(2) 2009 pp.53-58
Effect of weft parameters on weaving performance and fabric properties
Authors: Haque Md Mahbubul
Published: February 2010

Threads per inch and yarn count are some of the most important parameters that affect both weaving performance and fabric property. Experimental studies were conducted by weaving fabrics with three different picks per inch (PPI) and weft counts. The study shows that weaving performance is affected by the too high cover factor. Cover factor was calculated by dividing the threads/inch by the square root of the English cotton count and end breakage was taken as an indication of weaving performance. It was observed that when the count as well as threads/inch of one series of yarn changes the crimp% i.e. the consumption of both series of yarns are affected. It was also observed that, as expected, when the threads/inch increases the fabric strength also increases but at higher threads/inch the gain in strength is relatively more. Keywords: Threads, cover factor, EPI, PPI, crimp, strength, weaving performance DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v4i2.4369 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.4(2) 2009 pp.62-69
Production of jute yarns with low content of unsaponifiable matters
Authors: Dilruba FA , Amin MN , Molla ME , Rahman SMB , Jafrin Shamina
Published: February 2010

Castor oil having low content of unsaponifiable matters was chosen for the development of new jute batching emulsion processes. The suitability of the castor oil was also assessed in terms of its favourable colour, odour, specific gravity, acid value, iodine value, saponification value, viscosity, pour points and flash points in comparison to those of conventional JBO. Different recipes for the production of emulsions were standardized in the industrial scale and their suitability were assessed according to their stability, specific gravity, temperature, viscosity and pour points. The recipes were used to spin jute fibre in the jute mill machines. The yarn products were studied to evaluate their work performances based on their physico-chemical properties: moisture regain, t.p.i., W.I., count, strength, tenacity, extension, textile modulus, toughness, QR, oil content and unsaponifiable matters. The yarn products were particularly evaluated in terms of their unsaponifiable matters based on the IJSG criterion. The yarns of processes show quality ratio 93.93 to 104.20 and unsaponifiable matters ranging from 126.05 to 414.92 mg/kg yarn and easily pass the IJSG criterion. The processes therefore appear to be of commercial importance. Key words: Food items, IJSG criterion, JBO, Jute sacks, Unsaponifiables, Vegetable oils. DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v5i1.4376 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.5(1) 2010 pp.10-18
Natural convection flow from a porous vertical plate in presence of heat generation
Authors: Ferdousi Amena , Alim MA
Published: February 2010

Natural convection flow from a porous vertical plate in presence of heat generation have been presented here. The governing boundary layer equations are first transformed into a non dimensional form and the resulting non linear system of partial differential equations are then solved numerically using finite difference method together with Keller-Box scheme. The numerical results of the surface shear stress in terms of skin friction coefficient and the rate of heat transfer in terms of local Nusselt number, velocity as well as temperature profiles are shown graphically and tabular form for a selection of parameters set of consisting of heat generation parameter Q, Prandtl number Pr. Keywords: Porous plate, Heat generation, Natural convection. DOI: 10.3329/diujst.v5i1.4385 Daffodil International University Journal of Science and Technology Vol.5(1) 2010 pp.73-80
InfoVis Interaction Techniques in Animation of Recursive Programs
Authors: Velázquez-Iturbide J. Ángel , Pérez-Carrasco Antonio
Published: February 2010

Algorithm animations typically assist in educational tasks aimed simply at achieving understanding. Potentially, animations could assist in higher levels of cognition, such as the analysis level, but they usually fail in providing this support because they are not flexible or comprehensive enough. In particular, animations of recursion provided by educational systems hardly support the analysis of recursive algorithms. Here we show how to provide full support to the analysis of recursive algorithms. From a technical point of view, animations are enriched with interaction techniques inspired by the information visualization (InfoVis) field. Interaction tasks are presented in seven categories, and deal with both static visualizations and dynamic animations. All of these features are implemented in the SRec system, and visualizations generated by SRec are used to illustrate the article.
Online Parameter Estimation of the Ni-MH Batteries Based on Statistical Methods
Authors: Piao Chang-hao , Fu Wen-li , Lei Gai-hui , Cho Chong-du
Published: February 2010

Based on the application of the power batteries, this paper uses a statistical method to estimate the internal resistance and open-circuit voltage of Ni-MH battery. Battery status is monitored and simulated by battery pack test bench. Through using ideal battery model and fitting the data of measured voltage and current, the battery internal resistance and open-circuit voltage are estimated. The average relative error between battery statistic internal resistance and pulse internal resistance is less than 15% in different state of charge. Relative error is influenced by dispersion and symmetry of charge or discharge current. Average of absolute error in open-circuit voltage is about 5% respectively. The results show that it is feasible and accurate to estimate the parameters of Ni-MH battery by using statistical method.
Concentration of Rutin Model Solutions from Their Mixtures with Glucose Using Ultrafiltration
Authors: Wei Swallow , Hossain Md.  M. , Saleh Zaid  S.
Published: February 2010

Separation of polyphenolic phytochemical compounds from their mixtures with sugars is necessary to produce an added-value sugar-reduced extract with high biological activity from fruit juice processing industry waste streams. The separation characteristics of a binary mixture of rutin and glucose using a Pellicon-2 regenerated cellulose ultrafiltration membrane with an area of 0.1 m2 having nominal MWCO of 1,000 Da were investigated, to demonstrate the separation of phenolic compounds from sugars. The effects of the operating variables–transmembrane pressure, feed solution temperature and pH, initial feed concentration and feed flow rate–on the permeate flux and enrichment of rutin, were determined. The permeate flux increased with the increase in transmembrane pressure up to a certain limit and after that the flux remained more or less constant. The optimum transmembrane pressure was within 4–5 bar. The flux increased with the increase in feed solution temperature because of reduced feed viscosity, and better solubility. The concentration of rutin was optimum at lower temperature (30ºC), with an enrichment factor of 1.3. The effect of pH on permeate flux was less obvious. Lowering the feed solution pH increased the retention of rutin and the optimum separation was obtained within pH 3–4. The permeate flux decreased with the increase in feed concentration of rutin (concentration range 0.1–0.5 g/L). The enrichment of rutin was significant in the glucose concentration range 0.35–0.5 g/L. The feed flow rate had a significant effect on the flux and separation characteristics. Higher cross-flow through the membrane reduced the fouling by providing a shear force to sweep away deposited materials from the membrane surface. At high feed flow rate, more rutin was retained by the membrane with less sugar permeating through. The optimum feed flow rate was 1.5 L/min. For the separation of rutin (in the retentate) and glucose (in the permeate), the best results were obtained at rutin enrichment of 2.9 and recovery 72.5%, respectively. The performance of this system was further improved by operating it in a diafiltration mode, in which only approx. 11% of glucose remained in the retentate.
Role of Dehydrodiferulates in Maize Resistance to Pests and Diseases
Authors: Santiago Rogelio , Malvar Rosa  A.
Published: February 2010

Phenolic esters have attracted considerable interest due to the potential they offer for peroxidase catalysed cross-linking of cell wall polysaccharides. Particularly, feruloyl residues undergo radical coupling reactions that result in cross-linking (intra-/intermolecular) between polysaccharides, between polysaccharides and lignin and, between polysaccharides and proteins. This review addresses for the first time different studies in which it is established that cross-linking by dehydrodiferulates contributes to maize’s defences to pests and diseases. Dehydrodiferulate cross-links are involved in maize defence mechanisms against insects such as the European, Mediterranean, and tropical corn borers and, storage pest as the maize weevil. In addition, cross-links are also discussed to be involved in genetic resistance of maize to fungus diseases as Gibberella ear and stalk rot. Resistance against insects and fungus attending dehydrodiferulates could go hand in hand. Quantitative trait loci mapping for these cell wall components could be a useful tool for enhancing resistance to pest and diseases in future breeding programs.
Molecular Design and Functional Control of Novel Self-Oscillating Polymers
Authors: Hara Yusuke , Maeda Shingo , Hashimoto Shuji , Yoshida Ryo
Published: February 2010

If we could realize an autonomous polymer system driven under biological conditions by a tailor-made molecular design, human beings could create unprecedented biomimetic functions and materials such as heartbeats, autonomous peristaltic pumps, etc. In order to achieve this objective, we have investigated the molecular design of such a polymer system. As a result, we were the first to demonstrate a self-oscillating polymer system driven in a solution where only malonic acid existed, which could convert the chemical energy of the Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction into a change in the conformation of the polymer chain. To cause the self-oscillation in solution, we have attempted to construct a built-in system where the required BZ system substrates other than the organic acid are incorporated into the polymer itself. That is, the novel polymer chain incorporated the metal catalyst of the BZ reaction, a pH-control site and an oxidant supply site at the same time. As a result of introducing the pH control and oxidant supply sites into the conventional-type self-oscillating polymer chain, the novel polymer chain caused aggregation-disaggregation self-oscillations in the solution. We clarified that the period of the self-oscillation of the novel self-oscillating polymer chain was proportional to the concentration of the malonic acid. Therefore, the concentration of the malonic acid can be determined by measuring the period of the novel self-oscillating polymer solution. In this review, we introduce the detailed molecular design of the novel self-oscillating polymer chain and its self-oscillating behavior. Moreover, we report an autonomous self-oscillating polymer gel actuator that causes a bending-stretching motion under the constant conditions.
Organometallic Routes into the Nanorealms of Binary Fe-Si Phases
Authors: Kolel-Veetil Manoj K. , Keller Teddy M.
Published: February 2010

The Fe-Si binary system provides several iron silicides that have varied and exceptional material properties with applications in the electronic industry. The well known Fe-Si binary silicides are Fe3Si, Fe5Si3, FeSi, a-FeSi2 and b-FeSi2. While the iron-rich silicides Fe3Si and Fe5Si3 are known to be room temperature ferromagnets, the stoichiometric FeSi is the only known transition metal Kondo insulator. Furthermore, Fe5Si3 has also been demonstrated to exhibit giant magnetoresistance (GMR). The silicon-rich b-FeSi2 is a direct band gap material usable in light emitting diode (LED) applications. Typically, these silicides are synthesized by traditional solid-state reactions or by ion beam-induced mixing (IBM) of alternating metal and silicon layers. Alternatively, the utilization of organometallic compounds with reactive transition metal (Fe)-carbon bonds has opened various routes for the preparation of these silicides and the silicon-stabilized bcc- and fcc-Fe phases contained in the Fe-Si binary phase diagram. The unique interfacial interactions of carbon with the Fe and Si components have resulted in the preferential formation of nanoscale versions of these materials. This review will discuss such reactions.
A Route for Polymer Nanocomposites with Engineered Electrical Conductivity and Percolation Threshold
Authors: Kalaitzidou Kyriaki , Fukushima Hiroyuki , Drzal Lawrence  T.
Published: February 2010

Polymer nanocomposites with engineered electrical properties can be made by tuning the fabrication method, processing conditions and filler’s geometric and physical properties. This work focuses on investigating the effect of filler’s geometry (aspect ratio and shape), intrinsic electrical conductivity, alignment and dispersion within the polymer, and polymer crystallinity, on the percolation threshold and electrical conductivity of polypropylene based nanocomposites. The conductive reinforcements used are exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets, carbon black, vapor grown carbon fibers and polyacrylonitrile carbon fibers. The composites are made using melt mixing followed by injection molding. A coating method is also employed to improve the nanofiller’s dispersion within the polymer and compression molding is used to alter the nanofiller’s alignment.
Innovative Use and Characterization of Polymers for Timber-Related Construction
Authors: Darby Antony , Ibell Tim , Evernden Mark
Published: February 2010

Timber gridshells have become a very popular, efficient, sustainable and beautiful structural application of timber. However, given the slender laths involved in this form of construction, there is concern over the durability of timber for this purpose, and Glass FRP (GFRP) laths have been proposed as a possible substitution. This paper considers this possibility. It goes on to look at the possible use of Basalt FRP (BFRP) for the same purpose, from the perspective of its creep characteristics. It is shown that the use of GFRP gridshells is a viable form of construction, and that enhanced durability characteristics of BFRP could lead to their adoption for gridshells, given that the creep characteristics of basalt fibres presented here are comparable to those of glass fibres. An altogether different form of timber construction is that of joist-and-floorboard. In the UK, there are thousands of historic buildings which use this floor construction, and a sizeable proportion of this building stock now requires upgrade, strengthening and/or stiffening to allow these buildings to be fit for purpose into the future. This paper goes on to consider the possible use of Carbon FRP (CFRP) to strengthen and stiffen such timber floors. It is shown that such strengthening and stiffening is entirely feasible, offering the potential for greatly enhanced stiffness, in particular. Further, it is shown that mechanical shear connection between CFRP and timber is best conducted using perpendicular-positioned screws, rather than raked screws.
Chemoselectivity in the Dehydrocoupling Synthesis of Higher Molecular Weight Polysilanes
Authors: Lunzer Florian , Marschner Christoph
Published: February 2010

The Cp2ZrCl2/2 BuLi catalyzed co-polymerization of H2MeSiSiMeH2 and PhSiH3 was compared to the homo-polymerization of H2MeSiSiPhH2. In contrast to the co-polymerization, which gave molecular weights comparable to homo-polymerization of phenylsilane, the reaction of 1-methyl-2-phenyldisilane yielded a partially cross-linked high molecular weight polymer with very broad molecular weight distribution. A higher reactivity of phenyl-substituted silicon atoms compared to methyl-substituted ones was detected. Stoichiometric reactions of some disilanes with the slow dehydropolymerization catalyst CpCp*Hf(Cl)Si(SiMe3)3 gave metal disilanyl intermediates with selectivities that reflect the observed polymerization behavior.
Bone Substitute Fabrication Based on Dissolution-Precipitation Reactions
Authors: Ishikawa Kunio
Published: February 2010

Although block- or granular-type sintered hydroxyapatite are known to show excellent tissue responses and good osteoconductivity, apatite powder elicits inflammatory response. For the fabrication of hydroxyapatite block or granules, sintering is commonly employed. However, the inorganic component of bone and tooth is not high crystalline hydroxyapatite but low crystalline B-type carbonate apatite. Unfortunately, carbonate apatite powder cannot be sintered due to its instability at high temperature. Another method to fabricate apatite block and/or granule is through phase transformation based on dissolution-precipitation reactions using a precursor phase. This reaction basically is the same as a setting and hardening reaction of calcium sulfate or plaster. In this paper, apatite block fabrication methods by phase transformation based on dissolution-precipitation reactions will be discussed, with a focus on the similarity of the setting and hardening reaction of calcium sulfate.
A New 1,4-Diazepine from South China Sea Marine Sponge Callyspongia Species
Authors: Huang Ri-Ming , Ma Wei , Dong Jun-De , Zhou Xue-Feng , Xu Tunhai , Lee Kyung Jin , Yang Xianwen , Xu Shi-Hai , Liu Yonghong
Published: February 2010

A new 1,4-diazepine, callysponine (1), was isolated from a South China Sea Callyspongia sp. marine sponge, together with four known proline-based diketopiperazines: cyclo-(S-Pro-R-Leu) (2), cyclo-(S-Pro-R-Val) (3), cyclo-(S-Pro-R-Ala) (4), andcyclo-(S-Pro-R-Tyr) (5). The new structure was determined on the basis of NMR and MS analysis, and the absolute stereochemistry was defined by NOESY spectroscopy and optical rotation. The structures of the known compounds were identified by comparison of their spectroscopic data with those reported in the literature. Callysponine (1) did not inhibit the growth of HepG2 (hepatoma carcinoma cell), A549 (lung carcinoma cell), and HeLa (cervical cancer cell) cell lines.
3-Nitropropionic Acid as a Tool to Study the Mechanisms Involved in Huntington’s Disease: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Túnez Isaac , Tasset Inmaculada , Pérez-De La Cruz Verónica , Santamaría Abel
Published: February 2010

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an inheritable autosomal-dominant disorder whose causal mechanisms remain unknown. Experimental models have begun to uncover these pathways, thus helping to understand the mechanisms implicated and allowing for the characterization of potential targets for new therapeutic strategies. 3-Nitropropionic acid is known to produce in animals behavioural, biochemical and morphologic changes similar to those occurring in HD. For this reason, this phenotypic model is gaining attention as a valuable tool to mimick this disorder and further developing new therapies. In this review, we will focus on the past and present research of this molecule, to finally bring a perspective on what will be next in this promising field of study.
Production of Hesperetin Glycosides by Xanthomonas campestris and Cyclodextrin Glucanotransferase and Their Anti-allergic Activities
Authors: Shimoda Kei , Hamada Hiroki
Published: February 2010

The production of hesperetin glycosides was investigated using glycosylation with Xanthomonas campestris and cyclodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase). X. campestris glucosylated hesperetin to its 3'-, 5-, and 7-O-glucosides, and CGTase converted hesperetin glucosides into the corresponding maltosides. The resulting 7-O-glucoside and 7-O-maltoside of hesperetin showed inhibitory effects on IgE antibody production and on O2- generation from rat neutrophils.
Statistics for Categorical Surveys—A New Strategy for Multivariate Classification and Determining Variable Importance
Authors: Herr Alexander
Published: February 2010

Surveys can be a rich source of information. However, the extraction of underlying variables from the analysis of mixed categoric and numeric survey data is fraught with complications when using grouping techniques such as clustering or ordination. Here I present a new strategy to deal with classification of households into clusters, and identification of cluster membership for new households. The strategy relies on probabilistic methods for identifying variables underlying the clusters. It incorporates existing methods that (i) help determine the optimal cluster number, (ii) directly identify variables underlying clusters, and (iii) identify the variables important for classifying new cases into existing clusters. The strategy uses the R statistical software, which is freely accessible to anyone.
Acceptance, Communication Mode, and Use of Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing Using Touch Screen to Identify Risk Factors Among Pregnant Minority Women
Authors: Thornberry Jutta , Murray Kennan , El-Khorazaty Nabil , Kiely Michele
Published: February 2010

This paper evaluates the acceptability, communication mode, and use of audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) among minority pregnant women receiving prenatal care in six Washington, DC, sites. We screened 2,913 women for demographic eligibility (at least 18 years old, less than 29 weeks’ gestation, black or Hispanic) and risk of harm from smoking, environmental tobacco smoke exposure, depression, or intimate partner violence. Questions were displayed on touch-screen laptop monitors and heard through earphones. The mean length of time to complete the screening interview was almost 6 minutes.
We compared ACASI experience, which included difficulty in using the computer, acceptability (enjoyment), and preferred communication mode, across sites, across the eligibility and risk groups, and across a subset of 878 enrolled women for whom we had information on educational attainment and receipt of WIC (the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, a proxy for income). Respondents reported that ACASI was not difficult to use and that they liked using the computer. Respondents who were black or Hispanic enjoyed it significantly more than did respondents of other races/ethnicities. Of the respondents who were demographically eligible and who were black or Hispanic, those who had lower education levels listened to questions significantly more than did their counterparts. Mainly listening vs. listening and reading did not impact burden in terms of the length of time it took to complete the screener.
The acceptance of ACASI as a screening tool opens the door for more uses of this technology in health-related fields. The laptop computer and headphones provide privacy and mobility, so the technology can be used to ask sensitive questions in almost any locale, including busy clinic settings.
Effect of newer oral antiviral agents on future therapy of chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Perrillo Robert P , Marcellin Patrick
Published: February 2010

Long-term therapy with oral nucleoside/nucleotide analogues (NAs) is a favoured approach to the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB); however, all oral agents currently approved for the treatment of such patients are associated with some risk for drug resistance. This can lead to a rebound in HBV levels and, eventually, progressive liver disease. Combination therapy is one strategy that has the potential for enhanced antiviral effects and diminished or delayed resistance. The disadvantages of combination therapy include increased cost, the potential for drug interactions and increased toxicity. Additional therapeutic efficacy from combination therapy has not been demonstrated in clinical trials of HBV, and this approach might be less relevant now that potent NAs with excellent drug resistance profiles are available. However, it might be possible to identify subsets of patients (for example, those with extremely high viraemia or low baseline alanine aminotransferase levels) who derive added benefit from combination therapy. This review examines efficacy and resistance data for new low resistance oral NAs and clinical experience to date with de novo combination therapy in patients with CHB. The application of combination therapy in select populations of patients with CHB is also discussed.
Intragraft Cytomegalovirus Infection: A Randomized Trial of Valacyclovir Prophylaxis versus Pre-Emptive Therapy in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Reischig Tomáš , Němcová Jana , Vaněček Tomáš , Jindra Pavel , Hes Ondřej , Bouda Mirko , Třeška Vladislav
Published: February 2010

Background

In a randomized study, we observed a higher incidence of biopsy-proven acute rejection with preemptive valganciclovir therapy as compared with valacyclovir prophylaxis for prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease after renal transplantation (RTx). Persistence of the virus within the allograft could stimulate the alloimmune response. The aim of our study was to evaluate intragraft CMV infection in patients randomized to the trial.

Methods

RTx recipients at risk of CMV were randomized to pre-emptive therapy with valganciclovir ( n=36) for significant CMV viraemia (≥2,000 copies/ml by quantitative PCR in whole blood samples) or 3-month prophylaxis with valacyclovir ( n=34). Renal biopsies performed during 12 months post-RTx were analysed for the presence of CMV by real-time PCR and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

A total of 35 patients (59 biopsies) in the pre-emptive group and 31 patients (57 biopsies) with valacyclovir prophylaxis had ≥1 biopsy specimen with sufficient material for intragraft CMV determination. Cumulative incidence of intragraft CMV infection was 14% and 7% ( P=0.315) with pre-emptive therapy and prophylaxis, respectively. Patients at risk for primary CMV infection (CMV serological donor-positive and recipient-negative) were at higher risk for intragraft CMV infection (40% versus 5%; P=0.008). CMV viraemia at the time of biopsy was associated with the presence of CMV within the allograft ( P<0.001).

Conclusions

During the first year after RTx, the incidence of intragraft CMV infection was relatively low with comparable rates in patients managed by pre-emptive valganciclovir therapy and valacyclovir prophylaxis.
Retrospective characterization of the S open reading frame of HBV isolated from children with membranous nephropathy treated with interferon-α2b
Authors: Gous Natasha , Bhimma Rajendra , Kew Michael , Kramvis Anna
Published: February 2010

Background

A causal relationship exists between HBV infection and membranous nephropathy. The association is especially close in Black children in sub-Saharan Africa. Interferon-α2b is commonly used to treat this condition, but is effective in only 30–40% of patients. The reason for the poor response is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine if mutations in the surface gene of HBV isolated from Black children with HBV-associated membranous nephropathy before, during and after interferon treatment, have any effect on treatment response and vice versa.

Methods

HBV DNA was extracted from a responder, a reverter and a non-responder before and after initiation of 16 weeks of interferon-α2b treatment. The preS1/ preS2/S region was amplified, cloned and sequenced.

Results

The preS2 region was the most variable in the reverter and the non-responder, and the S region was the most variable in the non-responder. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the viral population dynamics between the responder and the reverter/non-responder strains differed as a result of mutations in the surface gene.

Conclusions

The presence of mutations in the S region of HBV could be used as predictive markers to differentiate interferon-α2b responders from non-responders provided that detailed analysis of further genomes confirms our findings.
Endothelial function is impaired in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy
Authors: Masiá Mar , Padilla Sergio , García Natalia , Jarrin Inmaculada , Bernal Enrique , López Natividad , Hernández Ildefonso , Gutiérrez Félix
Published: February 2010

Background

Data supporting a link between body-fat distribution changes and cardiovascular disease risk in HIV- infected patients are scarce and contradictory. We evaluated endothelial dysfunction, an early event in the development of atherosclerosis, and pro- atherosclerotic plasma biomarkers in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.

Methods

HIV-infected patients with and without lipodystrophy were prospectively enrolled. Endothelial function was measured through flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery. Plasma levels of several biomarkers of inflammation, endothelial activation and coagulation associated with adipose tissue and endothelial dysfunction were determined.

Results

The study included 110 patients, 55 of them with lipodystrophy. FMD was significantly lower in patients with lipodystrophy than in those without lipodystrophy (median [IQR] 3.1% [0.4–8.9] versus 6.3% [3.3–10.7]; P=0.004). Patients with isolated lipoatrophy exhibited the lowest FMD (2.6% [0–6.6]; PKruskal–Wallis=0.02). Lipodystrophy was associated with significantly higher plasma levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and lower levels of adiponectin; severe lipodystrophy was associated with higher concentrations of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1). There was an inverse correlation between FMD and IL-6 (Spearman's rho =-0.26; P=0.007). In a multivariate regression model with the lowest quartile of FMD as the dependent variable and lipodystrophy, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, 10-year Framingham risk score, pro- atherosclerotic biomarkers and HIV-related variables as predictors, the only independent predictor of endothelial dysfunction was lipodystrophy (odds ratio 5.22, 95% confidence interval 1.76–15.46; P=0.003).

Conclusions

Lipodystrophy is associated with endothelial dysfunction, independently of the presence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. This finding and the accompanying profile of pro-atherosclerotic biomarkers support an increased cardiovascular risk in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
The influence of abacavir and other antiretroviral agents on virological response to HCV therapy among antiretroviral-treated HIV-infected patients
Authors: Amorosa Valerianna K , Slim Jihad , Mounzer Karam , Bruno Christopher , Hoffman-Terry Margaret , Dorey-Stein Zachariah , Ferrara Thomas , Kostman Jay R , Lo Re Vincent
Published: February 2010

Background

It remains unclear if certain antiretroviral medications, particularly abacavir, compromise response to HCV therapy. Such data could inform the selection of appropriate antiretrovirals in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. The aim of this study was to determine if use of abacavir, as well as other antiretrovirals, was associated with reduced response to pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) plus ribavirin.

Methods

A cohort study was performed among antiretroviral- treated HIV/HCV-coinfected patients initiating PEG-IFN plus ribavirin between January 2001 and June 2007 at six sites in the United States. Abacavir and other antiretrovirals represented exposures of interest. Study outcomes included an early virological response (≥2 log IU/ml decrease in HCV viral load at 12 weeks) and sustained virological response (undetectable HCV viral load 24 weeks after treatment discontinuation).

Results

Among 212 patients, 74 (35%) received abacavir. For patients infected with HCV genotype 1 or 4, no differences were observed between abacavir users and non-users in early virological response (26 [40%] versus 53 [44%]; adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50–2.00) or sustained virological response (8 [13%] versus 13 [12%]; adjusted OR 1.34; 95% CI 0.50–3.62). Among genotype 2 and 3 patients, rates of early virological response (7 [78%] versus 16 [89%]; OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.05–3.76) and sustained virological response (3 [33%] versus 8 [44%]; OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.12–3.32) were also similar between abacavir users and non-users. No association was found between other antiretrovirals and a lack of early or sustained response.

Conclusions

Use of abacavir or other antiretroviral medications was not associated with reduced early or sustained virological response rates.
Imaging in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: GRAPPA 2008
Authors: COATES LAURA C. , McGONAGLE DENNIS M. , HODGSON RICHARD , GISONDI PAOLO , KAVANAUGH ARTHUR F. , QURESHI ABRAR A. , FITZGERALD OLIVER , MEASE PHILIP J. , GARG AMIT , ROSEN CHERYL F. , RIDLEY DAVID , GLADMAN DAFNA D. , KRUEGER GERALD G. , RITCHLIN CHRISTOPHER T. , HELLIWELL PHILIP S.
Published: February 2010

At the 2008 meeting of GRAPPA (Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis), the primary focus of the imaging session was the enthesis. Presentations from Dennis McGonagle (Leeds, UK), Richard Hodgson (Leeds, UK), and Paolo Gisondi (Verona, Italy) elaborated on this theme and prepared the meeting attendees for group discussions of further work in this area. Imaging, notably magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography, provides evidence of pathological change at the enthesis in psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Further, imaging abnormalities are found at sites that are asymptomatic in both PsA and psoriasis. The role of newer imaging modalities, such as ultra-short echo time (UTE) MRI, is promising but remains to be fully elucidated. The implication of these findings in relation to subclinical and predisease status is intriguing and requires further study in longitudinal studies. Further work is also required to examine the proposed common biomechanical basis between joint and skin, the mechanism of the resulting inflammation, and how these mechanisms differ from those seen in rheumatoid arthritis.
Biomarkers in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: GRAPPA 2008
Authors: RITCHLIN CHRISTOPHER T. , QURESHI ABRAR A. , de VLAM KURT , PITZALIS COSTANTINO , HELLIWELL PHILIP S. , MEASE PHILIP J. , GLADMAN DAFNA D. , KRUEGER GERALD G. , KAVANAUGH ARTHUR F. , FITZGERALD OLIVER
Published: February 2010

Biomarkers can provide valuable insights into disease susceptibility and natural history and may serve as surrogate endpoints for a variety of different outcomes. At the 2008 annual meeting of GRAPPA (Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis), members were updated on the development of biomarkers in psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Plenary presentations included a translational approach to biomarker development (Christopher Ritchlin, University of Rochester, NY, USA), biomarkers for psoriasis (Abrar Qureshi, Harvard Medical School, MA, USA), new data on biomarkers for damage in PsA (Kurt de Vlam, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium), and design considerations for a longitudinal study of joint damage being undertaken under the OMERACT umbrella with colleagues working on rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (Costantino Pitzalis, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK; Oliver FitzGerald, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland). At the conclusion of this session, the meeting attendees discussed specific design issues of the proposed longitudinal study, including study duration, disease process core domains, and the instruments to be used in recording enthesitis, dactylitis, nail involvement, quality of life and structural damage. The appearance of new therapeutic options in PsA raises the need for sensitive biomarkers for both disease activity and outcome.
THE FAMILIES OF DIPTERA
Authors: Walker Francis
Published: February 2010

The two-winged flies are more important in nature than any other order of insects because of their number and diffusion, and the families may be briefly traced in succession previous to a more extended notice of each of them, in case the subject should become rnore interesting.

In the following arrangement the first manifestation of Dipterous. existence is associated with the inmost recesses of man's habitation. and a few beasts and birds aiso partake of its presence in their dwellings.
ON SOME OF OUR COMMON INSECTS.: 6. THE RASPBERRY SAW-FLY—Selandria rubi, Harris
Authors: Saunders W.
Published: February 2010

Although this insect is quite generally distributed and very destructive to the foliage of the raspberry, it has, strange to say, been but little noticed by Entomologists in their publications. There is a short reference
to it in “Harris' Entomological Correspondence,” in a letter from Darling to Harris, written, in 1846, where a very correct eccount is given of the manner in which the egg is deposited. There is also a much briefer notice in “Packard's Guide,” and these are all the references we have been able to find.
OUR SPECIFIC NOMENCLATURE
Authors: Mead Theodore L.
Published: February 2010

In the article published in the April number on the subject of nomenclature, it is stated that Mr. Scrdder, in his Revision, has followed the same principles which govern all other departments of Zoology. It would be interesting to know what these universally adopted principles may be, for, judging from the recent publications on the subject, they must be yet unknown to a great number of those eminent in science Mr. Wallce, than whom we have no higher entomological authority, in his address to the London Ent. soc., recommends English naturalists to follow the British Association rules until others may be assented to, while these same rules find scant acceptance in Germany or France.
NOTES ON HYPERCHIRIA IO (Fabr.)
Authors: Riley C. V.
Published: February 2010

I have obtained many egg-masses of this species the present season, and have had them deposited by moths reared in confinement. Even in a state of nature they are deposited quite irregularly, some fastened on one of the compressed sides, some piled on top of others, but most of them on the small end as in the closely allied Maia. The average length is 0.07, largest width 0.05, and greatest thickness 0.03 inch. They are compressed on two sides, and flattened at the apex, the attached end smallest. when first deposited they are pure cream color, with a translucent yellow spot on the flattened apex.
MICRO-LEPIDOPTERA
Authors: Chambers V. T.
Published: February 2010

(This is a section of Tinea having the wings tufted and narrower than in Tinea.)

Head and face rough (as in Tinea), tongue very short. Maxillary palpi folded; labial palpi drooping, with the terminal joint more than half as long as the second, which has a few bristles beneath ; eyes globose; no ocelli. Antennae two-thirds as long as wings, filliform. Anterior wings with raised tufts of scales, the tufts generally rather brightly coloured ; lanceolate, narrower than in Tinea; the costal vein attains the margin before the middle; discal cell closed by a straight distinct discal vein, which gives off four branches, two of them to the costal and two to the dorsal margin, one of the latter near the apex.
NOTES ON RHYNCOPHORUS ZIMMERMANII, Sch
Authors: Summers S. V.
Published: February 2010

Larvae, long, 1.07 to 1.10 inch. Head rather large, smooth, vertical; occiput dark chestnut brown; medial line abbreviated, but well defined; lateral lines complete; vertex piceous, sculptured; front rufo-piceous ; mandibles obtuse, opaque, with three large deep impressed punctures; labium 3-dentate; mentum sinuated, sub-flavous. Body sub-cylindrical, not curved, sub-flavous, middle segments largest, humeral and anal segments corneous, brownish; legs replaced by six tubercles.
ECONOMICAL ENTOMOLOGY
Authors: Bell Professor
Published: February 2010

It is distinctiy within my knowledge that many persons who are not overburdened with too large a share of wordly wealth, are strongly inclined to make the study of Entomology and the collecting of insect specimens an employment for their leisure hours, were it not for fear of the expense they believe it necessary to incur for cabinet, cork, pins, &c. Now, the cabinet and cork may be dispensed with-in fact, I have neither the one nor the other myself.
A BALLOON SPIDER
Authors: Couper William
Published: February 2010

“The American Naturalist” for May, 1871, contains an interesting article on “Flying Spiders,” by J. H. Emerton. The species noticed by him are, no doubt, allied to the gossamer of Europe, and the phenomenon occurs early in autumn on the Islands of the St. Lawrence.

During the month of July, 1871, while trout-fishing on a large lake near the Upper Assumption, about one hundred miles north of Montreal, my attention was drawn to an inflated transparent substance of an oblong cocoon shape, passing about fifty yards over my head.
THE LAW OF PRIORITY IN NOMENCLATURE
Authors: Morrison H. K.
Published: February 2010

In a recent article in the Entomologist it is proposed to obviate the confusion in which our nomenclature is involved, by accepting the names most generally in use and allowing the law of priority (if it does not make too much trouble!) to determine all questions which may hereafter come up; ignoring entirely the claims of older authors and of writers holding different opinions from the Proposed of the scheme.
ON SOME OF OUR COMMON INSECTS.: 8. THE BACON BEETLE–Dermestes lardarius, Linn
Authors: Saunders W.
Published: February 2010

This interesting little beetle, of which we give an enlarged drawing, as well as a representation of its larva, in fig. 18, is a very destructive creature, dreaded by every Entomologist who has had any experience of its ravages. Its larva is very destructive also in some carelessly kept provision and household stores, affecting hams, bacon, old cheese and other substances. It is a European insect, which has long been naturalized in this country, where it seems to be quite as much at home as in its native land.
ON THE IDENTITY OF GRAPTA DRYAS WITH COMMA
Authors: Edwards W. H.
Published: February 2010

On the 30th of July Mr. T. L. Mead, at Coalburgh, took two females of Grapta Dryas and tied them in a muslin bag to a branch of Hop-vine. The result was a large number of eggs, laid on the leaves and in the bag. On the 5th the eggs were all hatched. The larvæ we carried through safely, and on the 21st the first ones began to change to chrysalids. In course of the next three days all were changed, upwards of sixty. Towards maturity some of the larvæ were white, as represented in the plate of Dryas, in the “Butterflies of North America.” The others were black, like the larvæ represented in plate of Comma in the same volume.