bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between orbicularis oris thickness and skeletal and dental variables in mixed dentition
Authors: Barbosa Taís de Souza , Gavião Maria Beatriz Duarte , Pupo Luciana Silveira , Castelo Paula Midori , Pereira Luciano José
Published: February 2013

AIM: To evaluate the association between orbicularis oris thickness and skeletal and dental variables in children with mixed dentition. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A convenience sample of 22 children, aged 7 to 12 years, with skeletal Class I and Class II malocclusion and subdivisions were selected. The upper and lower fascicles of the orbicularis oris thicknesses were measured using ultrasound (US) by one calibrated examiner, at rest and in the contracted state. Cephalometric radiograph measurements of the hard and soft tissues were calculated by one trained examiner. The results were analyzed by the Pearson and Spearman coefficients. RESULT: The upper and lower fascicles of the orbicularis oris in the contracted state showed a negative correlation with the distance between Ricketts' E-line and the labrale superius (E ┴ Ls). There were positive correlations between the lower face height and the distance between the AB plane and the labrale superius (AB-Ls) and between the ANB angle and the distance between E ┴ Ls and Ricketts' E-line and the labrale inferius (E ┴ Li). The lower-incisor distance from the N-Pg plane correlated positively with the distance between AB-Ls and the distance between the E ┴ Ls and E ┴ Li. Overbite and interincisal angle were negatively correlated with the distance between the pogonion and the soft tissue pogonion and the distance between E ┴ Li, respectively. CONCLUSION: Skeletal and dental variables were associated with upper and lower lip position and pogonion thickness, while the upper and lower fascicles of the orbicularis oris thicknesses in the contracted state were associated only with upper lip retrusion.
Influência da marca do condicionador ácido na resistência de união da resina composta à dentina
Authors: Passos Laiane Maria Alves , Santos Silvando Vieira dos , Rodrigues João Lima , Griza Sandro , Faria-e-Silva André Luis
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Apesar da importância da etapa de condicionamento ácido nos procedimentos adesivos, pouco se sabe sobre o efeito da marca do condicionador ácido sobre a união do adesivo à dentina. OBJETIVO: Este estudo avaliou o efeito de diferentes condicionadores ácidos na união da resina composta à dentina. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Vinte e cinco incisivos bovinos tiveram a coroa dividida em duas hemissecções. As superfícies vestibulares foram desgastadas com lixa carbeto de silício (SiC) #180 até a exposição de dentina, seguida por lixas SiC #600 para padronização da smear layer. As amostras foram aleatoriamente alocadas em cinco grupos (n = 10), de acordo com marca do condicionador ácido: 3M ESPE, Ultradent, Dentsply, Villevie e DFL. Apenas um sistema de união convencional de dois passos (Ambar, FGM) foi utilizado. Matrizes de silicone foram utilizadas na confecção de três cilindros de resina composta em cada amostra. Após 24 horas, os cilindros foram testados sob carga de cisalhamento até a falha. Os dados foram analisados com ANOVA a um critério e teste de Tukey (a = 0,05). O modo de falha foi avaliado em microscopia óptica e os dados submetidos ao Teste Qui-quadrado (a = 0,05). RESULTADO: Não houve diferença estatística na resistência de união obtida entre os condicionadores ácidos avaliados. Houve predomínio de falhas adesivas, exceto para os condicionadores da Dentsply e DFL, que demonstraram similaridade entre falhas adesivas e mistas. CONCLUSÃO: As diferentes marcas de condicionadores ácidos avaliados não influenciaram a resistência de união de resina composta à dentina.
Cárie dentária, disponibilidade de açúcar e fatores associados nas capitais brasileiras em 2003: um estudo ecológico
Authors: Gonçalves Michele Martins , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , Freire Maria do Carmo Matias
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A associação entre a disponibilidade de açúcar e a cárie dentária, utilizando-se dados populacionais, ainda não foi testada na população brasileira. OBJETIVO: Investigar a associação entre a experiência de cárie em crianças e a disponibilidade domiciliar de açúcar no Brasil, em 2003. Buscou-se ainda testar a provável influência de indicadores socioeconômicos e do acesso à água fluoretada. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Este estudo ecológico analisou dados das 27 capitais brasileiras sobre cárie em crianças de cinco e 12 anos, e abastecimento de água fluoretada, obtidos do levantamento nacional de saúde bucal de 2003. Os dados sobre disponibilidade domiciliar de açúcar foram obtidos da Pesquisa de Orçamento Familiar (POF) de 2003 e, sobre indicadores socioeconômicos, do Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento em 2000. Na análise estatística, foram utilizados testes de correlação e regressão linear simples e múltipla. RESULTADO: Não houve associação significativa entre a experiência de cárie em crianças de cinco anos e as variáveis independentes. Na idade de 12 anos, menor experiência de cárie foi correlacionada à maior aquisição de refrigerantes, ao maior tempo de fluoretação e ao IDH e à renda per capita mais elevados. O resultado da regressão linear múltipla, ajustado pelo tempo de fluoretação das águas, indicou que esta variável explica os níveis de cárie mais baixos. Após o ajuste pelos demais fatores, nenhuma variável foi associada à cárie. CONCLUSÃO: Não houve associação entre a experiência de cárie em crianças e a disponibilidade domiciliar de açúcar nas capitais brasileiras em 2003, quando indicadores socioeconômicos e presença de água fluoretada foram considerados na análise.
Introducing a method for mapping recreational experience
Authors: Lindholst Andrej Christian , Dempsey Nicola , Burton Mel
Published: February 2013

The provision of recreational opportunities forms an important and long-standing urban planning and management objective. However, considering a range of experiences encountered when in such spaces currently does not form part of existing open space assessment tools in the UK. In this paper, 'rec-mapping', an innovative method of analysing and mapping positive recreational experiences in urban green spaces, is explored and piloted within the UK planning context. Originating in the Nordic countries, this on-site method can provide urban planners and designers with data about the extent to which specific green spaces provide and support a range of recreational experiences. The exploration reported here is based on a short review of the method's background and an application in two test sites in Sheffield, south Yorkshire, in early summer 2010. This paper critically appraises the application of rec-mapping at smaller spatial scales and recommends further explorations within the UK planning context, as the method adds to existing open space assessment by providing a unique layer of information to analyse more fully the recreational qualities of urban green spaces.
Treatment of sulfide-rich UASB effluent: comparison of poly-aluminium chloride and iron-salts
Authors: Rao N. N. , Nandy Tapas
Published: February 2013

Coagulation treatment of sulfide-rich effluent from an upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor in a full-scale Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) is reported. The STP treats combined wastewater from tanneries and sewage, however, the treatment in the existing UASB reactor was not optimal. This resulted in high concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD), 530–590 mg/L; biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), 180–210 mg/L; and sulfide, 142–161 mg/L in the treated effluent. The high concentrations of sulfide in the UASB effluent resulted in higher oxygen demand. Therefore, further treatment of UASB effluent was necessary to comply with the discharge standards. In the present study, polyaluminium chloride (PACl, liquid & solid-type), ferric alum and Fe-salts (ferrous sulfate and ferric chloride) were used as coagulants and their effectiveness was compared. Optimization of doses of the chosen coagulants/salts, were carried out with the objective of achieving discharge standards with respect to COD, BOD and sulfide. Application of optimized dose of Ecorite PACl-2018 (0.378 mmol/L Al) and PACl (other brand, OB, 0.684 mmol/L Al) resulted in 68.0–80.0% TSS (total suspended solids), 13.0–18.0% COD, 26.0–35.0% BOD and 58.5–59.2% sulfide removal. On the other hand, use of Fe-salts lead to enhanced removal of pollutants; 80.0–83.0% TSS, 57.0–60.7% COD, 88.0–89.0% BOD and 99.0–99.4% sulfide. The Fe-salts were found to be more effective for sulfide removal as FeS. Such efficient removal of sulfide leads to decrease in COD and BOD concentrations and ensures compliance of final treated effluent from STP with the discharge standards.
Integrated model-based optimisation at the WWTP of Eindhoven
Authors: Cierkens K. , Nopens I. , De Keyser W. , Van Hulle S. , Plano S. , Torfs E. , Amerlinck Y. , Benedetti L. , van Nieuwenhuijzen A. , Weijers S. , De Jonge J.
Published: February 2013

The current model of the full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) model in Eindhoven uses a state-of-the-art model for the biological processes (ASM2d) and is calibrated for C- and N- removal in dry weather. However, for the ‘Kallisto’ project, which is an innovation programme aiming at a smart improvement of the surface water quality of the river Dommel by applying cost effective integrated system measures, the WWTP model needs to be improved to predict the WWTP performance under all conditions foreseen in the scenarios (e.g. storm events). A project approach was developed with parallel improvements in the different submodels, based on the interaction between submodels and the availability of several on-line sensors in influent, in-process and effluent. This is in contrast to most WWTP modelling studies, where focus is only on one submodel. It should lead to a well-balanced dynamic model that is able to predict WWTP behaviour under various conditions and that will be included in the integrated model, which will serve as an important decision support tool.
Improving performance and operational control of UASB reactors via proper sludge and scum discharge routines
Authors: Rosa A. P. , Lobato L. C. S. , Chernicharo C. A. L. , Martins D. C. R. B. , Maciel F. M. , Borges J. M.
Published: February 2013

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of implementing routines of sludge and scum withdrawal in full-scale Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) reactors on the operational control and on the improvement of final effluent quality. The work was developed at Laboreaux STP (Population Equivalent = 70,000 inhabitants), located in the city of Itabira, in the state of Minas Gerais – Brazil. Two operating conditions were tested for hydrostatic scum removal, varying the pressure in the gas line and the height of the scum layer within the three phase separator. The effective removal of scum was only achieved in the three phase separators located near to the discharge line, indicating the necessity for improvements in the discharge system. Applying the concepts of minimum and maximum sludge mass in the UASB reactors at Laboreaux STP resulted in a dramatic improvement in the effluent quality of the reactors. In the periods when the reactor operated with quantities of biomass below the maximum established limit (10,000 kgST), the average concentrations of TSS, BOD and COD were below 109, 44 and 153 mg L−1, respectively.
Ozone/H2O2 AOP pilot testing at a waterworks with dynamic raw water characteristics in Singapore
Authors: Wang Jenny , Ried Achim , Wieland Arne , Zhang Yaning , Chen Minghui , Xie Rongjing , Ang Wui Seng , Duarah Ankur , Pang Thomas , Zhang Lifeng , Lim Mong Hoo
Published: February 2013

In response to the national water strategies and pursuing to close the urban water loop with minimum concern, a proactive approach needs to be considered for future drinking water treatment process in Singapore. Ozone or ozone based advanced oxidation process (AOP) followed by granular activated carbon (GAC) can be one of the best available and cost-effective processes in implementing the national water strategies.

Xylem Water Solutions and PUB jointly started a two-year ozone based AOP pilot study at a Waterworks in Singapore. The objective of the project is to study the effectiveness of ozone based AOP on the removal of taste and odour compounds and various emerging organic contaminants. In this paper, the first year results with six selected contaminants show that it is promising to employ ozone based AOP to remove the concerned organic contaminants.
New surface treatment techniques to minimize copper alloy leaching in drinking water
Authors: Sugaya Norikazu
Published: February 2013

This new surface treatment is simple and easy as well as low in cost. The processes can even be performed by hand. Pharmaceutical raw materials used for the surface treatment, such as hydrochloric acid and nitric acid used in a mixed acid washing process and vegetable oil used in an organic film forming process, are easily obtained in many countries.
Innovation, multi-utility service businesses and sustainable cities: where might be the next breakthrough?
Authors: Villarroel Walker R. , Beck M. B.
Published: February 2013

A Multi-sectoral Systems Analysis (MSA) model has been constructed for exploring and managing cross-sectoral impacts (both synergies and antagonisms) resulting from technology and policy interventions in the design and stewardship of city infrastructures. This MSA is based on Substance Flow Analysis. It accounts for the flows of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon, and energy into, around, and out of the water, energy, food, waste-handling, and forestry sectors of city-watershed systems. Applications of the MSA to two case studies of the Metropolitan Atlanta Area in Georgia, USA, and the Greater London Area, UK, are compared. The impacts and financial benefits are assessed for four candidate technological innovations in the water sector: urine-separating toilets; pyrolysis of sewage sludge; combined food-waste and wastewater conveyance/treatment; and production of algae-based biofuels from sewage. System-wide environmental sustainability is gauged on four accounts, of attaining progressively more ambitious targets of resource savings/recovery in respect of water, energy, and nutrients (both nitrogen- and phosphorus-based). The paper closes by demonstrating how the MSA can provide assistance in framing questions of a more financial and social nature, i.e., those of ‘Who reaps the rewards?’ and ‘Who bears the costs?’ of the various prospective technological changes and (possibly) breakthroughs.
Innovative education and training for community-based water protection units
Authors: Kakembo Frederick
Published: February 2013

The paper explores the centrality of community-based education and training in addressing constraints and opportunities for wastewater management in Uganda. To be sustainable, wastewater management need to be conceived in terms of socio-economic incentives, community action, group pressure and social capital. It is assumed that communities could be motivated to undertake sustainable wastewater disposal activities if concrete benefits are demonstrated. The benefits include among others; reducing expenditure on health; improvement of the fisheries sector and the use of wastewater for crop farming. The paper is based on a study that analyzed the role of socio-economic incentives and Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) in sustainable management of wastewater. Data was collected through personal interviews, documents analysis and review of recent studies on wastewater reuse in Uganda. Focus was put on districts of Mukono, Buikwe and Kayunga in central Uganda. Findings reveal that in line with the Hydro-Social-Health cycle, physical, social, political, economic, and cultural factors converge to influence wastewater management. The paper duly describes innovative education and training approaches based on Communal Water Protection Units (COWAPU) facilitated by multidisciplinary Water Professionals and Educators (WAPE).It is concluded that it is possible to operate a complete sanitation system without subsidies.
Conversion of wood flour/SiO2/phenolic composite to porous SiC ceramic containing SiC whiskers
Authors: Li Zhong , Shi Tiejun , Tan Dexin
Published: February 2013

A novel wood flour/SiO2/phenolic composite was chosen to be converted into
porous SiC ceramic containing SiC whiskers via carbothermal reduction. At
1550?C the composite is converted into porous SiC ceramic with pore diameters
of 10~40?m, and consisting of ?-SiC located at the position of former wood
cell walls. ?-SiC wire-like whiskers of less than 50 nm in diameter and
several tens to over 100 ?m in length form within the pores. The surface of
the resulting ceramic is coated with ?-SiC necklace-like whiskers with
diameters of 1~2?m.
The principle of equality and the right to assisted procreation
Authors: Zivojinovic Dragica
Published: February 2013

The principle of equality is the foundation of developing an entire system of
human rights, and its implementation represents the standard of respecting
each right individually. With these premises as a starting point, the subject
of the author?s interests is whether the right to assisted reproduction, as a
segment of reproductive rights, is regulated in conformity with the equality
principal. In order to reach an answer, the author examines the concept of
human assisted reproduction and analyzes the application of reproductive
technologies in the light of legal, social and political reforms which
affected marriages, the family and partnership in general at the end of the
20th century. The author finds that the most significant ones among them are
the emancipation of women, recognition and legal formation of same sex unions
and statements prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Furthermore, by considering the right to assisted reproduction in the context
of other human rights with which it is interconnected and interdependent (the
right to life, right to privacy, the right to a family life, health rights,
children?s rights), the author finds there are no absolute, unlimited rights
in the contemporary system of human rights, but that they inevitably have
certain restrictions. Since the same limitation attribute also characterizes
the right to assisted reproduction, the author further researches whether
there is discrimination, positive or negative, towards the existing forms of
limitations to this right. The following forms of limitations have been
singled out, as the key ones for this analysis: request for (non)marital
status and heterosexual orientation, sexual affiliation and age and the
accessibility (prohibition) of applying certain methods of assisted
reproduction which are primarily in the function of eliminating female
sterility. The author concludes that there are elements of discrimination
based on family status, sexual orientation, age and sexual affiliation. The
author finds that emphasizing the need to protect the best interests of
children, as a crucial reason for justifying their introduction, can hardly
be defended both legally and ethically. The author believes that the basis of
limitation lies in the reasons of social suitability, namely buying social
peace at the present level of development of social conscience. By appealing
to the principal of equality, the author intercedes in favor of accessibility
to the right for assisted reproduction under equal conditions and limitations
for each user, and prohibiting discrimination on any basis.
Meta-Immunological Profiling of Children With Type 1 Diabetes Identifies New Biomarkers to Monitor Disease Progression
Authors: Galgani Mario , Nugnes Rosa , Bruzzese Dario , Perna Francesco , De Rosa Veronica , Procaccini Claudio , Mozzillo Enza , Cilio Corrado M. , Elding Larsson Helena , Lernmark Åke , La Cava Antonio , Franzese Adriana , Matarese Giuseppe
Published: February 2013

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells in genetically susceptible individuals. Triggers of islet autoimmunity, time course, and the precise mechanisms responsible for the progressive β-cell failure are not completely understood. The recent escalation of obesity in affluent countries has been suggested to contribute to the increased incidence of type 1 diabetes. Understanding the link between metabolism and immune tolerance could lead to the identification of new markers for the monitoring of disease onset and progression. We studied several immune cell subsets and factors with high metabolic impact as markers associated with disease progression in high-risk subjects and type 1 diabetic patients at onset and at 12 and 24 months after diagnosis. A multiple correlation matrix among different parameters was evaluated statistically and assessed visually on two-dimensional graphs. Markers to predict residual β-cell function up to 1 year after diagnosis were identified in multivariate logistic regression models. The meta-immunological profile changed significantly over time in patients, and a specific signature that was associated with worsening disease was identified. A multivariate logistic regression model measuring age, BMI, fasting C-peptide, number of circulating CD3+CD16+CD56+ cells, and the percentage of CD1c+CD19−CD14−CD303− type 1 myeloid dendritic cells at disease onset had a significant predictive value. The identification of a specific meta-immunological profile associated with disease status may contribute to our understanding of the basis of diabetes progression.
The new method of fabrication of submicron structures by optical lithography with mask shifting and mask rotation
Authors: Indykiewicz Kornelia , Hajłasz Marcin , Paszkiewicz Bogdan
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the methods of fabricating narrow parallel submicrometric stripes in silicon dioxide and a resist layer. The experiments were conducted by two techniques: double patterning lithography and double exposure lithography. In addition to the above mentioned processes, mask translation was applied. For all conducted experiments, chrome masks and a 405 nm line of the high pressure mercury lamp of an MA-56 Mask Aligner System were used. The main aim of the performed tests was to establish the utility and the possible applications of the methods used.
Heterogeneity of neural crest-derived melanocytes
Authors: Cichorek Miroslawa , Wachulska Malgorzata , Stasiewicz Aneta
Published: February 2013

The majority of melanocytes originate from the neural crest cells (NCC) that migrate, spread on the whole embryo’s body to form elements of the nervous system and skeleton, endocrinal glands, muscles and melanocytes. Human melanocytes differentiate mainly from the cranial and trunk NCC. Although melanocyte development has traditionally been associated with the dorsally migrating trunk NCC, there is evidence that a part of melanocytes arise from cells migrating ventrally. The ventral NCC differentiate into neurons and glia of the ganglia or Schwann cells. It has been suggested that the precursors for Schwann cells differentiate into melanocytes. As melanoblasts travel through the dermis, they multiply, follow the process of differentiation and invade the forming human fetal epidermis up to third month. After birth, melanocytes lose the ability to proliferate, except the hair melanocytes that renew during the hair cycle. The localization of neural crest-derived melanocytes in non-cutaneous places e.g. eye (the choroid and stroma of the iris and the ciliary body), ear (cells of the vestibular organ, cochlear stria vascularis), meninges of the brain, heart seems to indicate that repertoire of melanocyte functions is much wider than we expected e.g. the protection of tissues from potentially harmful factors (e.g. free radicals, binding toxins), storage ions, and anti-inflammatory action.
The role of adipose derived stem cells, smooth muscle cells and low intensity laser irradiation (LILI) in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Authors: Mvula Bernard , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: February 2013

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine has become the treatment of choice for several degenerative diseases. It involves the repairing or replacing of diseased or damaged cells or tissues. Stem cells have a key role to play in this multidisciplinary science because of their capacity to differentiate into several lineages. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) are adult mesenchymal stem cells that are easily harvested and have the capacity to differentiate into cartilage, bone, smooth muscle, fat, liver and nerve cells. ADSCs have been found to differentiate into smooth muscle cells which play major roles in diseases such as asthma, hypertension, cancer and arteriosclerosis. Low Intensity Laser Irradiation (LILI), which involves the application of monochromatic light, has been found to increase viability, proliferation and differentiation in several types of cells including ADSCs. This review discusses the role of ADSCs, smooth muscle cells and LILI in the science of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
EEG Feature Selection for BCI Based on Motor Imaginary Task
Authors: Rejer Izabela
Published: February 2013

The greatest problem met when a Brain Computer Interface (BCI) based on electroencephalographic (EEG) signals is to be created is a huge dimensionality of EEG feature space and at the same time very limited number of possible observations. The first is a result of a huge amount of data which can be recorded during the single trial, the latter - the result of individuality of EEG signals, which can significantly differ in different frequency bands determined for different subjects. These two reasons force the brain researches to reduce the huge EEG feature space to only some features, those which allow to build a BCI of a satisfactory accuracy. The paper presents the comparison of two methods of feature selection - blind source separation (BSS) method and method using interpretable features. The comparison was carried out with the data set recorded during EEG session with a subject whose task was to imagine movements of right and left hand.
Influence of the User Importance Measure on the Group Evolution Discovery
Authors: Saganowski Stanisław , Bródka Piotr , Kazienko Przemysław
Published: February 2013

One of the most interesting topics in social network science are social groups, i.e. their extraction, dynamics and evolution. One year ago the method for group evolution discovery (GED) was introduced. The GED method during extraction process takes into account both the group members quality and quantity. The quality is reflected by user importance measure. In this paper the influence of different user importance measures on the results of the GED method is examined and presented. The results indicate that using global measures like social position (page rank) allows to achieve more precise results than using local measures like degree centrality or no measure at all.
Detection of Surfactant Proteins A, B, C, and D in Human Nasal Mucosa and Their Regulation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Polyps
Authors: Schicht Martin , Knipping Stephan , Hirt Roman , Beileke Stephanie , Sel Saadettin , Paulsen Friedrich , Bräuer Lars
Published: February 2013

Backround

The nasal mucosa is characterized by a multirow high prismatic ciliated epithelium representing the first barrier of the immune defense system against microbial and other environmental pathogenic influences. A number of nonspecific defense mechanisms, including the presence of lactoferrin, peroxidases, proteases, interferons, and lysozymes in nasal secretions, act to counter inflammatory processes. The surfactant proteins (SPs) known from the lungs are important components of the innate immune system. They also influence the rheology of fluids and reduce the surface tension of gas–fluid interphases. The objective of this study was to investigate the protein expression of all four SPs. A specific aim was detection and characterization of SP-C, which had previously not been confirmed in human nasal mucosa.

Methods

The expression of mRNA for SP-A, -B, -C and -D was investigated using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction on samples of both healthy nasal mucosa and nasal mucosa altered by inflammatory processes (allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis). The distribution of all four proteins was determined with monoclonal antibodies using Western blot analysis as well as immunohistochemical methods.

Results

The results show that all four SPs, including SP-C not detected before this, are nasal mucosa components. A shift was also observed in the expression behavior of the SP-A, -B, and -D in nasal mucosa with inflammatory changes.

Conclusion

Based on these results, SPs appear to have an important function in immunologic and rheological process of the nasal mucosa and support the prospective therapeutic use of liposomal nasal sprays.
The Development of Allergic Rhinitis in Children Previously Diagnosed as Nonallergic Rhinitis
Authors: Veskitkul Jittima , Vichyanond Pakit , Visitsunthorn Nualanong , Jirapongsananuruk Orathai
Published: February 2013

Background

Nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is characterized by nasal symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis (AR) without an IgE-mediated immune response. Limited data are available on the natural history of NAR in its progression toward AR, particularly in children. This study evaluates the development of AR in children who were previously diagnosed with NAR.

Methods

Children with the diagnosis of NAR during the period of 2005–2007 were reevaluated in 2010. Nasal symptoms, disease severity, comorbidities, rescue medication scores (RMSs), and skin-prick test to aeroallergens were assessed.

Results

We recruited 175 children with an early diagnosis of NAR. The median age was 5.7 years, 62.9% were boys and 45.7% had family history of atopy. At reevaluation, 41% of children with previously diagnosed NAR developed sensitization to aeroallergens and were reclassified as having AR. The most frequent aeroallergen sensitization was Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (59.7%), followed by Dermatophagoides farinae (54.2%) and American cockroach (38.9%). Children who developed AR had more nasal/eye symptoms, higher severity, and RMSs than children who did not develop AR. The predictors of developing AR were persistent nasal symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 8.9; 95% CI, 3.2–24.6), nasal itching (adjusted OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.2–9.5), triggered by house dust (adjusted OR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.6 –11.9) and animal danders (adjusted OR, 15.8; 95% CI, 3.3–76.1), and family history of atopy (adjusted OR, 6.0; 95% CI, 2.3–15.9).

Conclusion

Children with NAR who had family history of atopy, persistent nasal symptoms, and symptoms triggered by aeroallergens should be reevaluated periodically for the development of AR. This study was part of the clinical trial NCT01068808 registered in www.clinicaltrials.gov .
Serum Eosinophil Cationic Protein Level in Chinese Subjects with Nonallergic and Local Allergic Rhinitis and its Relation to the Severity of Disease
Authors: Cheng Ke-Jia , Xu Ying-Ying , Liu Hong-Yan , Wang Shen-Qing
Published: February 2013

Background

Nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is a common disease, and local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is a newly described entity that is called “entopy” in recent years. However, the etiology and incidence of NAR and LAR are uncertain. This study evaluates the incidence of LAR in Chinese subjects and serum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) levels in patients with NAR and LAR and its relationship with symptom scores.

Methods

Positive skin-prick tests (SPT), nasal allergen provocation testing (NAPT) to Dermatophagoides farinae (DF), serum Phadiatop tests, and symptom score evaluations were performed in 147 patients with nonatopic persistent rhinitis. LAR was diagnosed by positive NAPT to DF results. The serum ECP level was measured using the UniCAP100 automated system by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Pharmacia Diagnostics, Uppsala, Sweden).

Results

Twelve patients were diagnosed with LAR, and 135 patients were diagnosed with NAR. There was no statistical difference of the visual analog scale scores between the two groups. Serum ECP was significantly increased in the patients with NAR. Serum ECP in the LAR group showed no difference compared with the NAR group or the controls. In the NAR group, nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea, and total scores had close and statistically significant relationships with serum ECP level.

Conclusion

The present study provides the first evidence that LAR exists in Chinese subjects. This study also suggests that eosinophils and ECP take part in the pathogenesis of NAR. A local examination for ECP and specific IgE in nasal lavage fluid or secretions in patients with LAR should be performed in a future study.
Impact of Mitomycin C on the mRNA Expression Signatures of Immunological Biomarkers in Eosinophilic Nasal Polyposis
Authors: de Castro Mirian Cabral Moreira , Rocha-Silva Fabiana , Gomes Luciana Inácia , Zauli Danielle Alves Gomes , Mourão Marina de Moraes , de Castro Mariana Moreira , Guimarães Roberto Eustáquio Santos , Teixeira-Carvalho Andrea , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis
Published: February 2013

Background

The topical application of mitomycin C has been evaluated as a complementary therapy for eosinophilic nasal polyposis (ENP). However, the mechanism underlying the additional benefits of mitomycin C for the control of eosinophilic inflammation and prevention of posttherapeutic relapse remains to be elucidated. In this work, the aim was to characterize the gene expression profile by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of proinflammatory and regulatory biomarkers that are typically associated with ENP and to assess the impact of the topical application of mitomycin C on the nasal mucosal tissue immunologic milieu after ENP surgery.

Methods

We have selected 20 patients with ENP that were recommended to undergo surgical intervention. Normal mucosal tissue was obtained from healthy nasal mucosa from six patients with absence of eosinophilic infiltration. To test the effect of mitomycin C, one side of the maxillary sinus mucosa was selected for topical application of this drug and the other received no further treatment and acted as the control. The genes interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5), CCL24, colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and beta actin (ACTB) were selected for gene expression analysis by qPCR.

Results

The data showed higher expression of proinflammatory biomarkers and lower levels of regulatory TGFB1 transcripts in ENP mucosal tissue. Surgery with topical application of mitomycin C induced a prominent transcriptional down-regulation of the immunologic biomarkers, CCL24, TNF-alpha, CSF2, and IL-5, in ENP mucosal tissue. Additionally, this treatment restored the levels of chemokines and cytokines to those observed in the nasal mucosal tissue of control subjects, except for TGFB1, which remained below the reference pattern. Moreover, CSF2 was identified as a putative biomarker with significant predictive value for complementary prophylactic purposes after surgery in ENP patients.

Conclusion

After the characterization of the expression signatures of immunologic biomarkers in ENP, we observed that the topical use of mitomycin C is important for the reestablishment of the immunologic microenvironment of a normal expression profile of biomarkers involved in ENP mucosal tissue.
Isolation and Detection of Antibiotic Sensitivity Pattern of Escherichia coli from Ducks in Bangladesh and Nepal
Authors: Singh Avishek , Khan Md Shahidur Rahman , Saha Sukumar , Hassan Jayedul , Roy Urmi
Published: February 2013

A total of 120 rectal swab samples from ducks (sixty samples from Nepalgunj area of Nepal and 60 from Boyera area under Mymensingh district of Bangladesh) were collected for the isolation of Escherichia coli and their antibiogram study. After cultural and biochemical examination, a total of 40 samples from Nepalgunj and 45 samples from Boyera were found positive for E. coli. Pathogenicity study of 10 positive isolates from Nepalgunj and 12 positive isolates from Boyera were done to detect the presence of enterotoxin. All inoculated mice died showing typical lesion of extensive hemorrhage and massive edema. The isolates from two different origins showed major difference in their antibiogram study. The isolates of Nepal were highly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole, chloramphenicol and amoxicillin; moderately sensitive to nalidixic acid and; less sensitive to kanamycin and resistant to cephalexin. However, the isolates of Bangladesh were highly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol and amoxicillin; moderately sensitive to nalidixic acid, cephalexin, and co-trimoxazole; less sensitive to kanamycin. This variation of antibiotic sensitivity and resistance patterns among the E. coli isolates of Nepal and Bangladesh might be due to strain variations and indiscriminate use of antibiotics in these two different countries.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13704 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.6-8
Prevalence of Caprine Subclinical Mastitis in Mymensingh Area, Bangladesh and Characterization of Associated Bacterial Agents and the Risk Factors
Authors: Razi Khandkar Muhammad Alimul , Rahman Md Bahanur , Flores-Gutiérrez Gerardo H , Rahman Md Tanvir
Published: February 2013

The prevalence of caprine subclinical mastitis in Mymensingh area was assessed by California Mastitis Test (CMT). Milk samples were also analyzed for the isolation and identification of bacterial agents that might be associated with caprine subclinical mastitis including their antibiotic sensitivity pattern against commonly used antibiotics. In addition, the influ-ence of certain risk factors such as age of animal, parity, length of lactation period, type of farming system and type of housing floor, on the prevalence of caprine subclinical mastitis was also evaluated. Milk samples were collected from 59 goats (113 udder halves). The overall prevalence of caprine subclinical mastitis as determined by CMT was 18.64%. On an udder half basis the prevalence was 15.04%. Certain risk factors associated with caprine subclinical mastitis were identified. The prevalence was higher in older animals, with greater parity and longer lactation period. The prevalence was also higher in farms where goats were raised under traditional farming system with earthen floors. The predominant bacterial species isolated from milk that were collected from the subclinical mastitis positive cases were Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis, that showed various degrees of sensitivity to the antibiotics used in the study.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13705 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.1-5
The Efficacy of Ranikhet Disease Vaccines Produced by Livestock Research Institute of Bangladesh
Authors: Sarkar Sreebas Chandra , Saha Sukumar , Amin Md Mansurul , Hossain Md Golzar
Published: February 2013

The study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of Baby chick Ranikhet Disease Vaccine (BCRDV) and Ranikhet Disease Vaccine (RDV) produced by the Livestock Research Institute (LRI), Mohakhali, Dhaka. For this experiment, 100 day-old-chick was purchased from Phinex Hatchery Ltd., Gazipur. The chicks (n=100) were divided into two groups. In group A (n=50), vaccination was performed twice with BCRDV at 2 and 21 days of age through intraocular route (i/o) followed by once with RDV at 60-day of age through intramuscular (i/m) route. Group B (n=50) was kept as unvaccinated control. The immunogenicity of the vaccine was evaluated by measuring the serum HI antibody titers at 1-, 20-, 36-, and 76-day of age, while the vaccine efficacy was examined by a challenge infection experiment with a velogenic field isolate of NDV as well as passive protection test. It was observed that the maternal antibody titers of the unvaccinated control group B gradually declined from day 1 to day 76 of age. Conversely, after primary and secondary vaccination with BCRDV, the levels of serum HI titer slightly increased in vaccinated group A compared with those in control group B. Finally administration of RDV resulted in a sharp increase in HI titer, leading to protection from challenge infection with virulent field virus as well as passive protection test. These results clearly demonstrated that a prime-booster immunization with BCRDV and RDV, both produced by LRI, is effective to protect chicken against Newcastle disease (ND).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13706 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.9-13
A Cross Sectional Study on Prevalence of Bovine Tuberculosis of Buffaloes in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md Lokman , Khan Mohammad Ferdousur Rahman , Nazir KHM Nazmul Hussain , Rahman Md Bahanur
Published: February 2013

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in buffalo population in Bangladesh by Caudal Fold Tuberculin (CFT) test using bPPD and also by Comparative Cervical Tuberculin (CCT) test using both bPPD and aPPD. The percentage of reactors was 6.12% in CFT, whereas the percentage of positive buffaloes was 4.08% by CCT method. The percentage of suspicious buffaloes was 10.20% by CFT. On the other hand, all the suspicious cases were proved as misleading-false-reactions in CCT. By CCT method, the male buffaloes (6.25%) showed more positivity to tuberculosis than the female buffaloes (3.03%) of the same area. In contrast, the result found by CFT method was more or less similar (20%) for both male and female buffaloes. Young buffaloes (6-30 months) were more susceptible to tuber-culosis than older buffaloes. It might be suggested that a well coordination in activities should be taken among the public health and Veterinary public health organelles for complete eradication of the disease from the country.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13709 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.23-26
Exometabolomics Approaches in Studying the Application of Lignocellulosic Biomass as Fermentation Feedstock
Authors: Zha Ying , Punt Peter
Published: February 2013

Lignocellulosic biomass is the future feedstock for the production of biofuel and bio-based chemicals. The pretreatment-hydrolysis product of biomass, so-called hydrolysate, contains not only fermentable sugars, but also compounds that inhibit its fermentability by microbes. To reduce the toxicity of hydrolysates as fermentation media, knowledge of the identity of inhibitors and their dynamics in hydrolysates need to be obtained. In the past decade, various studies have applied targeted metabolomics approaches to examine the composition of biomass hydrolysates. In these studies, analytical methods like HPLC, RP-HPLC, CE, GC-MS and LC-MS/MS were used to detect and quantify small carboxylic acids, furans and phenols. Through applying targeted metabolomics approaches, inhibitors were identified in hydrolysates and their dynamics in fermentation processes were monitored. However, to reveal the overall composition of different hydrolysates and to investigate its influence on hydrolysate fermentation performance, a non-targeted metabolomics study needs to be conducted. In this review, a non-targeted and generic metabolomics approach is introduced to explore inhibitor identification in biomass hydrolysates, and other similar metabolomics questions.
An Infrastructureless Approach to Estimate Vehicular Density in Urban Environments
Authors: Sanguesa Julio , Fogue Manuel , Garrido Piedad , Martinez Francisco , Cano Juan-Carlos , Calafate Carlos , Manzoni Pietro
Published: February 2013

In Vehicular Networks, communication success usually depends on the density of vehicles, since a higher density allows having shorter and more reliable wireless links. Thus, knowing the density of vehicles in a vehicular communications environment is important, as better opportunities for wireless communication can show up. However, vehicle density is highly variable in time and space. This paper deals with the importance of predicting the density of vehicles in vehicular environments to take decisions for enhancing the dissemination of warning messages between vehicles. We propose a novel mechanism to estimate the vehicular density in urban environments. Our mechanism uses as input parameters the number of beacons received per vehicle, and the topological characteristics of the environment where the vehicles are located. Simulation results indicate that, unlike previous proposals solely based on the number of beacons received, our approach is able to accurately estimate the vehicular density, and therefore it could support more efficient dissemination protocols for vehicular environments, as well as improve previously proposed schemes.
Talking about Teaching 2012
Authors: Restivo Maria Teresa , Rasteiro Maria Da Graça , Cardoso Alberto
Published: February 2013

The Portuguese Society for Engineering Education (SPEE) was publically launched in 2010.

Its start-up initiatives and consolidation process were complemented with the simultaneous establishment of SPEE international links.

In 2010-11 international workshops were run with the support of University of Porto (UPorto) and FEUP. Later on, in 2011, SPEE joined the International Society for Engineering Education (IGIP) and together both societies organized the SPEE-IGIP Flash Moment within the 1st World Engineering Education Flash Week.

SPEE has participated in other initiatives, such as CISTI 2011 (Chaves, Portugal), ICECE 2011 (Guimarães, Portugal), Educa Berlin 2011 (collaborating with the IGIP and SEFI workshop â??The Role of Pedagogy in Online Engineering Educationâ?), and has also organized Special Tracks in CLME 2011 (Maputo, Mozambique) and in the 41st International Conference of IGIP (Villach, Austria). Here, SPEE organized a Special Track entitled â??Talking about Teaching 2012 (TaTâ??12)â?.

In the Special Track Session TaTâ??12 within IGIP2012, SPEE intended to contribute to promote the discussion on Engineering Education (EE) by providing an opportunity for debating and sharing approaches, developments and experiences, in line with the mission of both SPEE and IGIP.

â??Talking about Teachingâ? is the name of a thought-provoking column of Susan Zvacek, from Fort Hays State University, in the SPEE Newsletter and it was planned to give continuity to her reflections and to potentiate them within TaTâ??12 and in future TaTâ??xx.

The proposed topics were concerned not only with resources in EE and with the constant demand on the use of technology, but also with the effectiveness of knowledge in order to guaranty simultaneously the spirit of engineering leadership in society and the lifelong learning capability. They also included the perspective of EE oriented for STEM teachers and students, as well as the sharing of resources with developing countries.

The TaTâ??12 Special Track has been organized in 3 sessions. Each session had an invited speaker, regular presentations and a final group discussion on all its topics. Susan Zvacek engaged all the participants with the topic â??Visualizing Understanding with Concept Mapsâ? which motivated some interactivity. James Uhomoibhi discussed â??Collaboration and Resource Sharing in Engineering Educationâ?, stressing the importance of the interaction with developing countries and Teresa Larkin spoke about â??Authentic Assessment using a Research Conference Formatâ?, showing how complementary and more effective methods can be used to supplement traditional paper and pencil examinations.