bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of DOC concentration with storm density flows in a stratified dam reservoir
Authors: Lee J. Y. , Ha S. R. , Park I. H. , Lee S. C. , Cho J. H.
Published: November 2010

Among natural organic matter (NOM) defined as the complex matrix of organic materials abundant in natural waters, a gradual accumulation of recalcitrant organic matter (ROM) has been observed in impounded water bodies such as a lake or dam reservoir in spite of extensive efforts made to curtail organic pollutant loadings generated in their catchment areas. This paper aims to identify the effect of diffuse pollution resulting from allochthonous organic matters on the temporal and spatial characteristics of organic matters in a stratified dam reservoir, Daecheong Dam, using both intensive observation and CE-QUAL-W2 model simulation. With the limitation of observation data in terms of organic matters of inflow waters from boundary tributaries and impounded water in the reservoir, organic matter was represented by organic carbon including labile particular organic carbon (LPOC), refractory organic carbon (RPOC), labile dissolved organic carbon (LDOC), and refractory organic carbon (RDOC). Both autochthonous and allochthonous origins of organic carbon were considered in the modeling of eutrophication of the reservoir water using CE-QUAL-W2. The result of simulation during the period from 2001 to 2005 was observed to be a gradual accumulation of particular organic carbon (POC). It is clear that the model calculation results enable the explanation of the internal and external movement of constituents in the reservoir. In particular turbidity and NOM were well related in the upper region of the reservoir according to flow distance, gradually changing to dissolved form of organic matter, DOC affected organic matter concentration of reservoir water quality compared to turbidity.
Integration of nitrification and denitrification by combining anoxic and aerobic conditions in a membrane bioreactor
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Yang Fenglin , Ohandja Dieudonné-Guy , Wong Fook-Sin
Published: November 2010

A membrane bioreactor (MBR) was developed to achieve nitrogen removal by combining nitrification and denitrification conditions in one reactor. The activated sludge was alternated between aerobic and anoxic conditions using peristaltic pump. The biomass concentration and floc morphological properties were observed to be similar in anoxic and aerobic compartments. However, the homogeneous properties of the activated sludge did not lead to the failure of oxygen gradient formation in the reactor. Due to the position of the air diffuser, an anoxic compartment at the bottom and an aerobic compartment in the upper part of the reactor were formed after 40 days. The average total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency was then observed to increase to 77%. The microbial characterization using polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) analysis, as well as the specific nitrogen utilization rate measurements, indicated that the nitrogen removal in the reactor occurred via nitrification and denitrification processes.
A modified culture-based study of bacterial community composition in a tannery wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Desta Adey F. , Dalhammer Gunnel , Kittuva Gunatrana R.
Published: November 2010

Though culture-independent methods have been used in preference to traditional isolation techniques for characterization of microbial community of wastewater treatment plants, it is difficult to widely apply this approach in resource-poor countries. The present study aimed to develop a test to identify the culturable portion of bacterial community in a high-strength wastewater. Wastewater samples were collected from nitrification–denitrification and settling tanks of the treatment plant of Elmo Leather AB tannery located in Borås, Sweden. After cultivating on nutrient agar with the optimal dilution (10−2), phenotypic and biochemical identification of the bacteria were done with colony morphology, Gram reaction, growth on MacConkey, phenylethanol media, triple sugar Iron agar slants, catalase and oxidase tests. Biochemical grouping of the isolates was done based on their test results for MacConkey, phenylethanol media, triple sugar Iron agar and oxidase test reaction. From the biochemical groups, isolates were randomly selected for API test and 16SrRNA gene sequencing. The isolates from the denitrification, nitrification tank were identified to be Paracoccus denitrificans (67%), Azoarcus spp (3%) and Spingomonas wittichii (1%). From the settling tank, Paracoccus denitrificans (22%), Corynebacterium freneyi (20%) and Bacillus cereus (1%) were identified. The grouping based on biochemical test results as well as the identification based on sequencing has shown coherence except for discrepancies with the API test. The preliminary implications of the grouping based on culture-based characteristics and its potential application for resource-limited environmental microbial studies is discussed.
Effect of glucose on enzyme activity and color removal by Trametes versicolor for high strength landfill leachate
Authors: Saetang J. , Babel S.
Published: November 2010

This research was carried out to study the treatment of landfill leachate by immobilized Trametes versicolor BCC 8725. Leachate was collected from Nonthaburi disposal site of Thailand from a pipe as discharged from landfill to the stabilization pond. Batch experiments were conducted to determine the effects of carbon source (glucose) on the biomass growth of fungi and the treatment of leachate in terms of color, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removal. Enzymes produced by Trametes versicolor BCC 8725 were also analyzed. Experimental results indicated a higher biomass growth when glucose was added, indicating that the growth of fungi is dependent on the co-substrate. The percentage of color removal is approximately 58% and 12%, respectively, with and without glucose. BOD and COD removals were 37% and 40% with glucose addition within 12 days at optimum conditions. Enzyme analysis indicated that laccase was the main enzyme produced. In addition, Manganese Peroxidase (MnP) and Lignin Peroxidase (LiP) were also detected. The fungi were able to produce the enzymes. The peak concentrations of LiP, MnP and laccase activity were found to be 384, 1,241, 2,534 unit/litre (U/L) with glucose, indicating that the color removal rates were proportional to the enzyme activity.
Coupling of anodic oxidation and adsorption by granular activated carbon for chemical oxygen demand removal from 4,4′-diaminostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid wastewater
Authors: Wang Lizhang , Zhao Yuemin
Published: November 2010

Experiments were performed to reduce chemical oxygen demand (COD) from 4,4′-diaminostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic (DSD) acid manufacturing wastewater using electrochemical oxidation coupled with adsorption by granular activated carbon. The COD removal is affected by the residence time and applied voltage. When the residence time is increased, lower value of COD effluent could be obtained, however, the average current efficiency (ACE) decreased rapidly, and so does the applied voltage. In addition, aeration could effectively enhance COD removal efficiency and protect anodes from corrosion. Furthermore, the acidic condition is beneficial to the rapid decrease of COD and the values of pH effluent are independent of the initial solution pH. The optimization conditions obtained from these experiments are applied voltage of 4.8 V, residence time of 180 min and air–liquid ratio of 4.2 with the COD effluent of about 690 mg L−1. In these cases, the ACE and energy consumption are 388% and 4.144 kW h kg−1 COD, respectively. These perfect results from the experiments illustrate that the combined process is a considerable alternative for the treatment of industrial wastewater containing high concentration of organic pollutants and salinity.
A polyvinylchloride-based cadmium ion-selective electrode using [Mo2(OAc)2(H2-calix[4]arene)] as an electroactive material
Authors: Tyagi Sonika , Agarwal Himanshu , Ikram Saiqa
Published: November 2010

A highly electroactive material Mo2[(OAc)2(H2-calix[4]arene)] is used as a neutral carrier for Cd2 +  ions in this paper. The membrane is fabricated by using ionophore [Mo2(OAc)2(H2-calix[4]arene)]:poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC): dibutylphthalate(DBP):sodium tetraphenyl borate (NaTPB) in the ratio of 40:300:470:5 respectively and tetrahydrofuran (THF) used as a solvent. The membrane electrode performed in the concentration range of 9.9 × 10−8–1.0 × 10−1 M (2.34 × 10−5–23.64 mg/mL) having the Nernstian slope of 30.0±1.0 mV and the best detection limit was observed at 9.8 × 10−8 M (2.31 × 10−5 mg/mL). The proposed membrane electrode has the response time of 12 s and a useful working pH range of 1.0–7.0, and used over a period of 10 months and work satisfactorily in the test solution having 30% (v/v) non-aqueous content. Electrode sensor has distinguishable ability for Cd2 +  ion with regard to several alkali, alkaline earth, transition and heavy metal ions. It was used in direct potentiometry as an indicator electrode, in the potentiometric titration of 10−3 M Cd2 +  solution against 10−2 M of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).
Upgrading of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant by adding a moving bed biofilm reactor as pre-treatment and ozonation followed by biofiltration for enhanced COD reduction: design and operation experience
Authors: Kaindl Nikolaus
Published: November 2010

A paper mill producing 500,000 ton of graphic paper annually has an onsite wastewater treatment plant that treats 7,240,000 m3 of wastewater per year, mechanically first, then biologically and at last by ozonation. Increased paper production capacity led to higher COD load in the mill effluent while production of higher proportions of brighter products gave worse biodegradability. Therefore the biological capacity of the WWTP needed to be increased and extra measures were necessary to enhance the efficiency of COD reduction. The full scale implementation of one MBBR with a volume of 1,230 m3 was accomplished in 2000 followed by another MBBR of 2,475 m3 in 2002. An ozonation step with a capacity of 75 kg O3/h was added in 2004 to meet higher COD reduction demands during the production of brighter products and thus keeping the given outflow limits. Adding a moving bed biofilm reactor prior to the existing activated sludge step gives: (i) cost advantages when increasing biological capacity as higher COD volume loads of MBBRs allow smaller reactors than usual for activated sludge plants; (ii) a relief of strain from the activated sludge step by biological degradation in the MBBR; (iii) equalizing of peaks in the COD load and toxic effects before affecting the activated sludge step; (iv) a stable volume sludge index below 100 ml/g in combination with an optimization of the activated sludge step allows good sludge separation—an important condition for further treatment with ozone. Ozonation and subsequent bio-filtration pre-treated waste water provide: (i) reduction of hard COD unobtainable by conventional treatment; (ii) controllable COD reduction in a very wide range and therefore elimination of COD-peaks; (iii) reduction of treatment costs by combination of ozonation and subsequent bio-filtration; (iv) decrease of the color in the ozonated wastewater. The MBBR step proved very simple to operate as part of the biological treatment. Excellent control of the COD-removal rate in the ozone step allowed for economical usage and therefore acceptable operation costs in relation to the paper production.
Treatment of thermomechanical pulping condensate using thermophilic and mesophilic sequencing batch reactors
Authors: Langevin S. P. , Liao B. Q.
Published: November 2010

In-mill thermophilic treatment of individual wastewater streams to achieve water system closure has received much attention in pulp and paper mills. Aerobic biological treatment of thermomechanical pulping (TMP) condensate was conducted using thermophilic (55°C) and mesophilic (35°C) sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) for a period of 143 days at a cyclic time of 6, 8 and 12 h. A soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) removal efficiency of 77 to 91% was achieved, given an organic loading rate of 0.7–1.3 kg/m3 d. The COD removal efficiency of the thermophilic SBR was slightly lower than that of the mesophilic SBR. Majority of the soluble COD was removed by biodegradation with a small portion (9–13%) of soluble COD stripped by aeration. The settleability (sludge volume index) and the flocculating ability (effluent suspended solids) of thermophilic sludge were comparable to or slightly poorer than that of the mesophilic sludge. The level of filaments in thermophilic sludge was usually higher than that in mesophilic sludge. The results of the study indicate that both thermophilic and mesophilic SBRs can be successfully operated for in-mill treatment of TMP condensate. The treated effluent has the potential for subsequent reuse in the mill.
Production and characterization of lignocellulosic biomass-derived activated carbon
Authors: Namazi A. B. , Jia C. Q. , Allen D. G.
Published: November 2010

The goal of this work is to establish the technical feasibility of producing activated carbon from pulp mill sludges. KOH chemical activation of four lignocellulosic biomass materials, two sludges from pulp mills, one sludge for a linerboard mill, and cow manure, were investigated experimentally, with a focus on the effects of KOH/biomass ratio (1/1, 1.5/1 and 2/1), activation temperature (400–600°C) and activation time (1 to 2 h) on the development of porosity. The activation products were characterized for their physical and chemical properties using a surface area analyzer, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Experiments were carried out to establish the effectiveness of the lignocellulosic biomass-derived activated carbon in removing methylene blue (MB), a surrogate of large organic molecules. The results show that the activated carbon are highly porous with specific surface area greater than 500 m2/g. The yield of activated carbon was greater than the percent of fixed carbon in the dry sludge, suggesting that the activation process was able to capture a substantial amount of carbon from the organic matter in the sludge. While 400°C was too low, 600°C was high enough to sustain a substantial rate of activation for linerboard sludge. The KOH/biomass ratio, activation temperature and time all play important roles in pore development and yield control, allowing optimization of the activation process. MB adsorption followed a Langmuir isotherm for all four activated carbon, although the adsorption capacity of NK-primary sludge-derived activated carbon was considerably lower than the rest, consistent with its lower specific surface area.
Experimental investigation and computer simulation of diffusion in Pt-coated bulk Ni
Authors: Gong W. , Zhang L. , Ode M. , Murakami H. , Zhou C.
Published: November 2010

The concentration profiles of thin-film Pt/bulk Ni coatings annealed at 1150,
1250 and 1300?C for different time were measured by means of electron probe
microanalysis. The corresponding interdiffusion coefficients were then
determined using the thin-film solution. The calculated concentration
profiles based on the presently obtained interdiffusion coefficients agree
well with the experimental ones, but better at a higher temperature or a
longer time. The comparison between the presently measured concentration
profiles and the DICTRA simulated ones indicates that it is promising to
apply the well-established atomic mobility databases due to bulk diffusion
information in coating systems with some simple modifications for
diffusivities.
Prediction of Al2O3 leaching recovery in the Bayer process using statistical multilinear regresion analysis
Authors: Djuric I. , Djordjevic P. , Mihajlovic I. , Nikolic Dj. , Zivkovic Z.
Published: November 2010

This paper presents the results of defining the mathematical model which
describes the dependence of leaching degree of Al2O3 in bauxite from the
most influential input parameters in industrial conditions of conducting the
leaching process in the Bayer technology of alumina production. Mathematical
model is defined using the stepwise MLRA method, with R2 = 0.764 and
significant statistical reliability - VIF<2 and p<0.05, on the one-year
statistical sample. Validation of the acquired model was performed using the
data from the following year, collected from the process conducted under
industrial conditions, rendering the same statistical reliability, with R2 =
0.759.
Experimental investigation and thermodynamic modeling of the Zr-Y system
Authors: Bu M.J. , Wang P.S. , Xu H.H. , Liu S.H. , Sha C.S. , Du Y. , Pan F.S. , Tang A.T.
Published: November 2010

Based on the critical review of all the available experimental data in the
literature, 8 key alloys were prepared by arc melting to investigate the
phase equilibria in the Zr-Y system, These alloys, which were annealed at 5
different temperatures (800?C, 1000?C, 1100?C, 1120?C, 1160?C), were analyzed
by means of X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, optical
microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray
spectroscopy. The results showed that a peritectoid reaction (?Zr) + (?Y) =
(?Zr) occurs at 886?C ? 5?C, and an eutectic reaction L = (?Zr) + (?Y) occurs
at 1313?C ? 5?C. Taking into account the experimental data obtained both from
this work and the literature, the Zr-Y system was thermodynamically modeled.
The previously reported temperature for the peritectic reaction of (?Y) + L =
(?Y) at about 1490 ?C is supported by our thermodynamic calculation.
Comparison between the calculated and measured phase diagrams shows that the
thermodynamic calculation can well account for the experimental data.
The effect of shielding gas composition on the toughness and crack growth parameters of AlMg4,5Mn weld metals
Authors: Prokic-Cvetkovic R. , Kastelec-Macura S. , Milosavljevic A. , Popovic O. , Burzic M.
Published: November 2010

The experiment have been performed using samples of welded joints of the
three components aluminium alloy AlMg4,5Mn. The welding was performed with
GTAW in the shielded atmosphere of Ar+0,015N2, mixture of the inert gases
Ar+50%He+0,015N2 and Ar+70%He+0,015N2. After welding has been completed, the
metallographic tests, the tensile test and the tests of the hardness were
performed. Also, the weld metal toughness was estimated, using the
instrumental Charpy impact testing system, followed by estimating the crack
initiation energy, crack growth energy and the fracture mechanics parameters.
The goal was to establish the effects of shielding atmosphere composition on
the mechanical properties and fracture mechanics parameters of weld metal.
Response of cold briquetted iron (CBI) to high temperatures treatment
Authors: Ibitoye S.A. , Adeleke A.A. , Tiamiyu A.O. , Popoola A.P.I. , Afonja A.A.
Published: November 2010

This investigation was carried out to assess the behaviours of Cold
Briquetted Iron (CBI) when exposed to increasing temperature changes up to
its complete melting. High-temperature behaviours and melting characteristics
of CBI were studied. Ground as-received CBI briquette and those heated to
temperatures ranging from 500?C to 1000?C were sieved to maximum of 30
microns diameter size and their room-temperature x-ray diffraction (XRD)
measured. CBI was found to contain among others, ?-iron, cementite and silica
phases. Cementite was found to commence decomposition at 500?C - 600?C and
completed by 700?C with conspicuous increase in the concentration of ?-iron
phase. Only ?-iron and silica phases were sustained in CBI at temperatures
above 700?C. In an inert atmosphere, it was discovered that CBI melted over a
temperature range of 1527.3?C to 1536.96?C accompanied by an irrecoverable
weight loss of 9.6 wt.% of the starting material. It was concluded that
melting CBI would require charging along it appropriate fluxes to take care
of the unreduced iron oxide and incorporation into facility for melting CBI
an effective deslagging mechanism to remove unavoidable possible voluminous
slag that would be formed.
Boundary element modelling of wave diffraction by interaction with wave-offshore structure and dredged region
Authors: Kim S. , Lee H.
Published: November 2010

Boundary element modelling of wave diffraction by interaction with wave-offshore structure and dredged region

The purpose of this study is to estimate the wave height at the front face of breakwater (Refracted breakwater and Straight breakwater), when dredging like the submarine pit is performed in the distant offshore from outer breakwater. The wave field of the problem is considered to be two dimensional planes and the configuration of the pit region is designated by a single horizontal long-rectangular system. The numerical approach uses the Green function based on the boundary integral approach. The results of the present numerical works are illustrated by applying the normal and inclined incidence. It is shown that in the case of normal incidence, the ratio of wave height reduction at the front face of both types of breakwaters is approximately more than 20% due to the effect of the submarine pit on the sea bed. Furthermore, regardless of the type of breakwater and the difference in incident wave angles, the ratio of wave height was shown to be reduced.
Differentiation of arable field weed communities in the northern part of the Silesian Upland (S Poland)
Authors: Węgrzynek Beata
Published: November 2010

Differentiation of arable field weed communities in the northern part of the Silesian Upland (S Poland)

The purpose of this paper is to present the role of the selected species (i.e. associations character species, endangered as well as the most expansive weeds) in arable field communities in the area of the Tarnowskie Góry Ridge and the Chełm, two mesoregions of the Silesian Upland (southern Poland). On the basis of 750 phytosociological relevés taken using the method of Braun-Blanquet (Braun-Blanquet 1964) between 1995 and 2009, eight weed associations as well as numerous rump communities were distinguished. Phytocoenoses without a significant contribution of the association character species comprised about 68% of the patches analysed in the cereal crop and about 12% of the communities established in the root plant crop. Very often the character species of cereal weed associations occurred sporadically or in small numbers. Some expansive weeds (e.g.Apera spica-venti(L.) P. Beauv.,Avena fatuaL.,A. xvilisWallr.,Chenopodium albumL.,Echinochloa crus-galli(L.) P. Beauv.,Elymus repensL.,Galinsoga ciliata(Raf.) S. F. Blake,G. parvifloraCav.) played an important role in the communities analysed. The vanishing of some weed species and the spread of others has resulted in the transformation of the composition and structure of the segetal communities, a vast majority of rare and endangered weed species in the studied area are considered to be very sensitive to modern agriculture methods, e.g. chemicalization, introduction of new crop cultivars, effective cleaning of seed materials, drainage etc. (Siciński 1998; Warcholińska 1998).
Medicinal plants in segetal communities of the Kałuszyńska Upland
Authors: Skrajna Teresa
Published: November 2010

Medicinal plants in segetal communities of the Kałuszyńska Upland

The herbal flora of agrocenoses of the Kałuszyńska Upland includes 137 vascular plant species. Apophytes (91species-66,4%) prevail over anthropophytes (46 species-33,6 %). Meadow (32 species), waterside (20 species) and forest apophytes (17 species) were the most numerous. Short-lived plants (71 species) prevail over perennials (66 species) in the analysed flora. Therophytes (65 species) and hemicryptophytes (48 species) were the dominant life forms. Very rare, rare and quite rare species were the most frequent in the flora of the Kałuszyńska Upland. They build up over 63% of the total number of species. The share of common and very common species was about 8%. Some of them, e.g, Equisetum arvense, Chenopodium album, Viola arvensis, Anthemis arvensis, Centaurea cyanus, Cirsium arvense, Elymus repens Convolvulus arvensis, Capsella bursapastoris and Stellaria media were noted with a high ground cover. The occurrence of species rare in the region and in Poland among recorded medicinal plants, e.g., Camelina microcarpa sp. sylvestris, Hypericum humifusum, Consolida regalis, Asperugo procumbens and Herniaria glabra is especially noteworthy.
Computation of positive realization of MIMO hybrid linear systems in the form of second Fornasini-Marchesini model
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz , Sajewski Łukasz
Published: November 2010

Computation of positive realization of MIMO hybrid linear systems in the form of second Fornasini-Marchesini model

The realization problem for positive multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) linear hybrid systems with the form of second Fornasini-Marchesini model is formulated and a method based on the state variable diagram for finding a positive realization of a given proper transfer matrix is proposed. Sufficient conditions for the existence of the positive realization of a given proper transfer matrix are established. A procedure for computation of a positive realization is proposed and illustrated by a numerical example.
Assessment of Data Quality for Evaluations of Manual Pavement Distress
Authors: Bogus Susan M. , Migliaccio Giovanni C. , Cordova Arturo A.
Published: November 2010

Assessment of the conditions of current assets is a task of major relevance in a transportation agency asset management program. It not only provides information on the current condition of the asset but also helps the agency make decisions on future maintenance and rehabilitation activities. Although low-volume roadways represent a large proportion of the total road network in the United States, little research on the management of these assets has been done. Two major data collection techniques are used for roadway condition assessment: manual and automated. Although automated techniques have been found to be safer and quicker, manual condition surveys have been proven to offer preciseness and cost-effectiveness. In the case of low-volume roadway assessment, for which the funds available to asset managers are limited, manual condition surveys are often preferred. Nevertheless, manual condition surveys must address the potential subjectivity of the results. Therefore, agencies could benefit from a system for ensuring quality on manual condition surveys. This paper proposes a framework for assessment of data quality and presents a case study of its implementation in the Northern New Mexico Pavement Evaluation Program. The proposed framework is easily implementable and able to identify potential and actual data collection issues. The framework can be used as part of an asset management program and could be particularly beneficial in the case of low-volume roads.
Field Investigation of Success Factors of Fish Passageways in Oregon
Authors: Sillars David N. , Moradkhani Hamid , Tymvios Nicholas
Published: November 2010

This paper discusses the results of a field investigation of 19 fish passageways constructed by the Oregon Department of Transportation. The intent of these passageways is to avoid significant disruption to the habitats required for a healthy life cycle for fish and other aquatic organisms. The field investigation of physical factors that may correlate with successful passageways may provide insight into more reliable and sustainable solutions to the problem of constructing highway crossings over natural waterways. The investigation is part of a larger study of whether construction practices may be additional factors that result in success. The researchers collected measurement information, including slopes, channel configurations, crossing structure characteristics, and streambed soil characteristics. The sites were judged on the basis of their suitability as fish passageways; for analytical purposes, a success factor was created and used to rate each site on the basis of the field observations. The physical metrics of the sites were correlated against the success index and other important fish passageway factors, and the results are presented. Important findings include a relationship between downstream slope and scour as well as an assessment that subsurface flow may be related to factors—perhaps construction techniques—other than the configuration of the channel.
Enhanced Model for Resilient Response of Soils Resulting from Seasonal Changes as Implemented in Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide
Authors: Cary Carlos E. , Zapata Claudia E.
Published: November 2010

The present study deals with the revision of the current model in the Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) used to predict the environmental factor for unfrozen unbound materials (FU), which is used to adjust the resilient response of soils resulting from seasonal changes. A large database with data from the existing literature and studies at Arizona State University was developed to evaluate the model. The results suggest that the environmental factor is underestimated for fine-grained materials with high plasticity under dry (arid) conditions. However, insufficient data were available to enhance the FU models for wetter conditions. Three fundamental factors that may have impacts on the FU values were evaluated in this study: stress state, compaction energy (soil density), and soil type. The stress state was found to have little to no impact on the predictions of FU. But density changes and soil type were found to be important. The potential for soil index properties to be predictive variables was assessed. Models dependent on enhanced moisture content accounting for the effect of soil type are proposed for nonplastic and plastic materials. The range of predicted FU values is in close agreement with the actual measured FU values found from laboratory studies. It is recommended that the new models be adopted in the revision of the MEPDG model for the drier conditions described in this report and that research be conducted to enhance the FU approach in the current MEPDG for wetter conditions brought on for a variety of reasons (e.g., groundwater table change, increased rainfall, and frost effects).
Unified Testing Method for Measuring Diffusion Coefficients for Unsaturated Soil Drying and Wetting in Laboratory
Authors: Mabirizi Daniel , Bulut Rifat
Published: November 2010

This paper presents a unified testing approach for measuring drying and wetting diffusion coefficients for unsaturated soil in the laboratory. Transient moisture flow in an unsaturated soil in response to suction changes is controlled by the unsaturated moisture diffusion coefficient. The moisture diffusion coefficient can be determined by measuring suction profiles over time. The laboratory testing approach involves measurement of the total suction changes with time with thermocouple psychrometers in cylindrical soil specimens with predetermined boundary conditions. The determination of the diffusion coefficient by this method is simple and relatively rapid and can be carried out on a routine basis in a geotechnical engineering laboratory. It is well-known that soils exhibit hysteresis with drying and wetting cycles. A similar hysteresis has been observed between the drying and wetting diffusion parameters for a number of undisturbed soil samples obtained from field borings across Oklahoma. The wetting diffusion coefficients are generally greater than the drying diffusion coefficients by a factor of up to 2.
Prevalence and risk factors of coronary heart disease in a rural population of Bangladesh
Authors: Abu Sayeed M , Mahtab Hajera , Sayeed Shurovi , Begum Tanjima , Khanam Parvin Akter , Banu Akhter
Published: November 2010

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major global health problem with the majority of burden observed increasingly in the developing countries. There has been no estimate of CHD in Bangladesh. This study addresses the prevalence of CHD in a Bangladeshi rural population which also aimed to determine the risk factors related to CHD. Ten villages of Nandail sub-district under Mymensingh were selected purposively. All subjects of age ≥20y were considered eligible and were interviewed about family income, family history of T2DM, CHD and HTN. The investigations included height, weight, waist-girth, hip-girth, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP & DBP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TG), cholesterol (Chol) and high density lipoprotein (HDL). Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) were also estimated. Finally, electrocardiography (ECG) was undertaken in all participants who had family history of diabetes or hypertension or CHD. Diagnosis of CHD was based on history of angina or changes in ECG or diagnosed by a cardiologist. A total of 6235 subjects were enlisted as eligible (age ≥20y) participants. Of them, 4141 (m / f: 1749 / 2392) subjects volunteered for the study. The age-adjusted (20-69y) prevalence of CHD was 1.85 with 95% CI, 1.42 - 2.28. There was no significant difference between men and women. The mean (SD) values of age (p<0.001), SBP (p<0.01), DBP (p<0.05), HbA1c (p<0.05) and ACR (p<0.01) were significantly higher among subjects with CHD than those without; whereas, there were no significant differences in BMI and WHR, TG, Chol and HDL. Logistic regression analysis showed that adjusted for age, sex, social class and obesity, the subjects with higher age (≥45y), higher 2hBG (≥7.0mmol/l), higher ACR (≥17.2) and family history of CHD had significant risk for CHD. The prevalence of CHD is comparable with other Asian population. Family history of CHD and age over 45 years, and who had hyperglycemia and higher ACR were proved to be the independent predictors of CHD. CHD was found to affect participants irrespective of sex, social class, obesity and lipid status. Though the IFG and diabetes groups appeared to have similar biophysical characteristics, only the diabetes group had significant risk for CHD. Further study in a larger sample may be undertaken to confirm the study findings and to explore some unidentified risk factors of CHD. DOI: 10.3329/imcj.v4i2.6494Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2010; 4(2): 37-43
Student's Opinion Towards the Assessment System of Revised Undergraduate Medical Curriculum - An Experience in A Private Medical College
Authors: Nazneen R , Talukder HK , Hossain MZ
Published: November 2010

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the attitude of the undergraduate medical students towards the assessment system of revised medical curriculum.Materials and Methods: Study design: It was a -descriptive cross sectional study. Study period: From February 2008 to April 2008.Setting: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College and Hospital.Sample size: Total 82 students were selected for the study out of which 70 participated.Inclusion criteria: students who were selected for the final MBBS examination.Exclusion Criteria: Students not qualified for final professional examination.Procedure: During the placement of the students in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, the basic idea of the old and the new curriculum was explained to them. The objective of the study was explained and a pretested questionnaire was given to each student. Identification of the student was not compulsory to maintain secrecy. 5 point Likert scales was used to measure the responses of the participants. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS system version 11.Results: Out of 82 students, 70 participated. Among them, 37.1% were male, and 48.6% were female students. 44.2 % said that the curriculum and 35.7 % said that the exam system is easy to follow, 47.1 % wanted to have single subject and 65.7% wanted to have all the major subjects simultaneously in block posting. 74.1 % said that the 6 hours learning period is tiring. 42.9 % were in favour of 3-6 pm break, 64.3% were in favour of giving MOCK test weekly, 55.7 % liked formative assessment test, 64.3 % did not adopt any unfair means in the examination, 78.6% students are comfortable with MCQ,81.4 % with SAQ, about 41.5% with SEQ, 74.2% with OSPE, 71.5% with SOE and 77.2% liked Clinical examination.Key Words: Under graduate medical Curriculum; Students opinion. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6508J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 151-156
Estrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor, and Her-2/neu Oncogene Expression in Breast Cancers Among Bangladeshi Women
Authors: Mostafa MG , Larsen MT , Love RR
Published: November 2010

Two-thirds of all women who develop breast cancer each year live in Asia. In many countries, including Bangladesh, there are few data on the pathological characteristics of breast tumours. The objectives of this study were a) to describe the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and the expression of Her-2/neu oncogene expression status in a large series of breast cancers occurring in Bangladeshi women and b) to correlate these findings with the patients' age at diagnosis, tumour histological grade, and presence of axillary lymph node metastatic disease.Method: One thousand forty two cases were evaluated in a referral practice. Tumour sections were stained immunohistochemically using Dako 1D5 (ER) and Dako 636 (PR) and semiquantitatively scored for ER and PR expression. Three hundred thirty five of these cases were also stained using Dako c-erb2 oncoprotein and scored for Her-2/neu over-expression.Results: Estrogen Receptor expression was positive in 69.0%, PR expression was positive in 72.3%, and Her-2/ neu was over-expressed (IHC score 3+) in 28.4% of the cases. Her-2/neu over-expression did not consistently correlate with ER and PR expression. ER and PR expression were inversely associated with tumour histological grade. Cases with axillary lymph node metastases had higher rates of ER and PR expression. No significant association was observed with patient’s age.Conclusion: Estrogen Receptor, PR, and Her-2/neu expression frequencies and prognostic factor associations in Bangladeshi women with breast cancer referred for tumour marker testing are very similar to those reported in Western countries. These findings have important implications for ensuring optimal testing capacity for all patients with these tumours, to allow for appropriate choices of treatment. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6509J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 157-162
Evaluation & Management of Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleeding (OGIB)
Authors: Perveen S , Hossain MR , Hussain SMB , Ahmed MA , Aftab H
Published: November 2010

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a common entity. Incidence of bleeding has comparatively increased though case fatality is static. Despite improved treatments and better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of peptic ulcer disease the rising figures of GI bleeding reflect an increasing proportion of elderly population and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory use. Overall, 5% of all cases of gastrointestinal bleeding fall under the category of Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) in the USA. Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding is defined as bleeding of unknown origin that persists or recurs after an initial negative endoscopic evaluation including colonoscopy and/or upper endoscopy. OGIB can be either Occult (no visible blood) or Overt (Passage of visible blood).Less common aetiologies of GI bleeding e.g. Cameron erosions, Dieulafoy’s lesion, Watermelon stomach that are sometimes difficult to identify at endoscopy often present as OGIB. They need special techniques even thrombolytic therapy to precipitate bleeding for diagnostic angiography. Increased awareness of the existence of such conditions help in rapid and accurate identification of the lesion. Review of such cases will be the focus of this publication. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6512J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 174-182
Goldenhar Syndrome - A Case Report
Authors: Siddique MAR , Hossain J , Abedin MJ , Parvez M
Published: November 2010

A 7 years old boy was diagnosed a case of Goldenhar Syndrome. He presented with swelling in the upper and outer part of the left eye as limbal dermoid associated with preauricular tags, hemifacial asymmetry, microtia and small chin since birth. His vertebral anomalies also detected by skiagram of the vertebral column as spina bifida. His ocular and auricular problems were solved by surgery without any complicatons. Patient is leading a normal life. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6515J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 193-195
Pregnancy with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura - A Case Report
Authors: Akther R , Hossain T , Khan MA , Rashid Maliha
Published: November 2010

Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy has many common causes, including gestational thrombocytopenia, viral and bacterial infections, and preeclampsia complicated by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome. The great concern for ITP during pregnancy is the risk of thrombocytopenia in the newborn infant. A 30yrs old 3rd gravid women was admitted in maternity unit 3, Dhaka Medical College Hospital with the complaints of 36weeks pregnancy, lower abdominal pain and less fetal movement. She had been suffering from severe thrombocytopenia for the last 8 months. She treated with Prednisolone during pregnancy period, platelet transfusion before and after delivery and Danazol in puerperium. Her baby was delivered by caesarean section .Her intra-operative and post operative period was uneventful. She delivered a healthy male baby weighted 2.5 kg and breast feeding established successfully. She was discharged on seventh post operative day. The aim of this case report to reveal pregnancy with ITP and its clinical presentation, investigation and management with review of relevant literatures. DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6516J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 196-198
Bezoar, A Rare Cause of Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Authors: Hussain MM , Kawser CA
Published: November 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6517J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 199-201
Letters to the Editor Vol.28(3)
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6519J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 203-205
College News Vol.28(3)
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6520J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 206-211
From the Desk of Editor in Chief Vol.28(3) 2010
Authors: Islam Quazi Tarikul
Published: November 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbcps.v28i3.6521J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2010; 28: 212
The Two-State Solution and Partition: World History Perspectives on Palestine and India
Authors: John Docker
Published: November 2010

This essay contends that the two-state solution for Palestine-Israel derives its plausibility from the long career of partition, as idea and event, in the twentieth century and into the twenty first; as well as India and Palestine we can think of Ireland, Germany, Vietnam, Korea, and Cyprus. I put forward some comparative ‘world history’ reflections on partition in Palestine and India, focusing on individual thinkers who saw partition as a tragic mistake: Martin Buber and Walid Khalidi in relation to Palestine, and Gyanendra Pandey in relation to India. Gandhi will figure as well, for both Palestine and India. My contention is that the histories of partition in India and Palestine illuminate each other.
Communism and Zionism in Palestine-Israel: A Troubled Legacy
Authors: Sa'di Ahmad H.
Published: November 2010

The political marginalisation of the Palestinians inside Israel between 1948 and 1977 has been widely discussed in the literature. The Israeli Communist Party is often credited with being the sole political organisation which gave an outlet during this period to the critical and oppositional political, literary and artistic activities of the Palestinian citizens of Israel. The Party organs in particular have done their utmost to popularise this claim, which has also become an article of faith for many Arab left-wing intellectuals. The question tackled in this article is: why did the Israeli State grant a margin of freedom to the Communist Party during this period, while denying it to every single Palestinian organisation inside Israel? I discussed this question at a conference on the Left in Palestine held at SOAS in February 2010. While the reader will be spared here the details of the subsequent personal accusations levelled against me in the organs of the Communist Party, I argue here (as in my SOAS paper) that the Communist Party was given this freedom of action for a range of reasons and in particular those to do with the Soviet support for the establishment of Israel and the important pro-Zionist role played the Communist Party during the 1948 War for Palestine. Other reasons are related to the endorsement by the Communist Party of Zionism's tenets and claims in support of the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine, including the ‘modernising’ nature of the Zionist project.
Nazareth in the War for Palestine: The Arab City that Survived the 1948 Nakba
Authors: Mustafa Abbasi
Published: November 2010

Nazareth is the largest Palestinian Arab city inside Israel and one of the holiest Christian cities on earth. In the New Testament the town is described as the childhood home of Jesus and as such is a centre of Christian shrines and pilgrimage, with many shrines commemorating biblical events. Although according to the 1947 UN Partition plan the city was part of the Palestinian Arab state, it was conquered in 1948 by the Israeli army and annexed to the Israeli state. On 16 July, three days after the mass expulsion of the Palestinian cities of Lydda and Ramle by the Israeli army, Nazareth surrendered to Jewish forces and its inhabitants were allowed to remain in situ. In 1948 the Zionist attitude towards the Palestinian Christian communities in Galilee was generally less aggressive than the attitude towards the local Palestinian Muslims. This article addresses the question: how and why did Nazareth survive the 1948 Nakba and mass expulsion of Palestinians from the Galilee? While exploring this Christian dimension, the article focuses on the key roles played by the Muslim Mayor Yusuf al-Fahum, Israeli Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ben-Gurion and army commanders involved in deciding the fate of the city.
The Greek Orthodox Church and Africa: Missions between the Light of Universalism and the Shadow of Nationalism
Authors: Makris G. P.
Published: November 2010

The present article considers the socio-political conditions and the character of the Greek Orthodox Church's missionary activities, taking Nigeria as a case par excellence of the hopes and tensions inherent in the project. As such, the analysis touches only lightly upon the subject of Eastern Orthodox presence in Africa in general, as that would have meant an extended study of the relationship between the Patriarchate of Alexandria, the various Greek immigrant communities, and the multiplicity of local Christianities. The latter are discussed from the point of view of the Church hierarchy in Greece as well as in Nigeria. For this reason, the article is meant as an introduction to the issue and should be complemented with ethnographic material from Nigeria.
The Beginning of the Orthodox Church in Japan: The Long-Lasting Legacy of Saint Nicholai
Authors: Takahashi John
Published: November 2010

Japanese Orthodox Christians faithfully preserve the legacy of St Nicholai as a great help in living the Orthodoxy Christian life today. Especially regarding evangelisation in Japan, St Nicholai's thoughts and missionary activities are studied and referred to just as the Church Fathers are referenced to find answers for theological questions. In this sense, he is considered to be a modern Church Father by Japanese Orthodox Christians. Although detailed study of his thoughts and activities is still in progress, research findings will benefit both clergy and the faithful in any church when they encounter modern day problems as Christians. The secret of his success is found in the fact that he always remembered to bring Orthodox Christianity within the context of everyday life and culture.