bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic degradation of clofibric acid, carbamazepine and iomeprol using conglomerated TiO2 and activated carbon in aqueous suspension
Authors: Ziegmann Markus , Frimmel Fritz H.
Published: January 2010

The combination of powdered activated carbon (PAC) and TiO2 has been tested for synergistic/antagonistic effects in the photocatalytic degradation of carbamazepine, clofibric acid and iomeprol. Synergistic effects are thought to be caused by rapid adsorption on the PAC surface followed by diffusion to the TiO2 surface and photocatalytic degradation. The Freundlich constant KF was used for comparing the sorption properties of the three substances and it was found that KF for clofibric acid was 3 times lower than for carbamazepine and iomeprol, regardless of the kind of PAC used. A PAC with a distinct tendency to form conglomerates was selected so that a high percentage of the PAC surface was in direct proximity to the TiO2 surface. The photocatalytic degradation of the pharmaceutically active compounds studied followed pseudo-first order kinetics. Synergistic effects only occurred for clofibric acid (factor 1.5) and an inverse relationship between adsorption affinity and synergistic effects was found. High affinity of the target substances to the PAC surface seemed to be counterproductive for the photocatalytic degradation.
Paradoxical-Success Imagery in the Field
Authors: de la Pena Derek , Khoo Anselm , Murray Nicholas P
Published: January 2010

In the current study, 27 male club-soccer players were trained with paradoxical-success imagery (de la Peña, 2009) in the field. Based on the tenets of Wegner's (1994) theory of ironic processes of mental control and previous research (e.g., de la Peña, 2009; Mellalieu et al., 2009), it was predicted that participants who imaged experiencing anxiety-related symptoms (combined with additional substantiated imagery components) prior to competing, would show a positive increase in self-confidence and interpretation of anxiety-related symptoms following training compared to pre-treatment. Hypotheses were supported in spite of an initial increase in cognitive anxiety intensity immediately following treatment. Additionally, results suggest that paradoxical-success imagery may be best suited for individuals with trait anxiety and the propensity to interpret anxiety-related symptoms as debilitative to performance. Factors contributing to the effective use of the imagery strategy as well as potential drawbacks are discussed.
PCAOB Enforcements: A Review of the First Three Years
Authors: Gilbertson David L. , Herron Terri L.
Published: January 2010

SUMMARY: The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 created the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (hereafter, PCAOB) to oversee audits of public companies. When violations of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act or PCAOB rules are found, the PCAOB may impose sanctions as severe as revoking a firm’s registration or barring a person from participating in audits of public companies. This paper describes the PCAOB enforcement actions issued through 2008. We examine characteristics of the disciplined firms, their PCAOB inspections, the related issuer clients, and the circumstances that resulted in the disciplinary proceedings. Consistent with prior research, we find that firms with issues rising to the level of disciplinary action generally have longer inspections and more audit deficiencies than firms with inspection deficiencies not resulting in sanctions. Disciplined firms also tend to have fewer partners, audit more SEC issuers, and have clients that are smaller and less financially sound.
Digital control circuitry for the p53 dynamics in cancer cell and apoptosis
Authors: Ardito Marretta Rosario
Published: January 2010

Experimental work and theoretical models deduce a “digital” response of the p53 transcription factor when genomic integrity is damaged. The mutual influence of p53 and its antagonist, the Mdm2 oncogene, is closed in a feedback. This paper proposes an aerospace-based architecture for translating the p53/Mdm2/DNA damage network into a digital circuitry in which the optimal control theory is applied for obtaining the requested dynamic evolutions of some considered cell species for repairing a DNA damage. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the usefulness of such digital circuitry design to detect and predict the cell species dynamics for shedding light on their inner and mutual mechanisms of interaction. Moreover, the cell fate is newly conceived by the modified pulsing mechanism of p53 and other apoptotic species when the digital optimal control is applied to an apoptosis wiring diagram.
The Effect of Thermal Stimulation on the Far-Red and Orange-Red IRSL Signal of a French K-Rich Feldspar: Preliminary Results
Authors: Fattahi Morteza
Published: January 2010

Feldspar suffers from anomalous fading. Previous studies suggest that the level of fading depends on the emission band, and that the fading decreases by increasing the emission wavelengths; therefore, it is interesting to compare blue, orange and far-red IRSL emission characteristics. The purpose of this article is to make an initial consideration of some physical differences between two close emission windows. The effect of the sample temperature on far-red (λ>650 nm) and orangenear-red IRSL (λ=600-650 nm) from an identical feldspar sample is investigated. The difference in signal decay rate and thermal effects is discussed. While there is signal enhancement for far-red IRSL signals between 100-220°C, orange-near-red signals do not change. Some possible mechanisms for producing far-red and orange-near-red IRSL are discussed. This paper shows that orange-near-red IRSL and far-red IRSL thermal activation energies are different. This difference may be the cause of previously observed differences in stability of near and far-red IRSL signals.
Infrared Stimulated Luminescence and Thermoluminescence Dating of Archaeological Samples From Turkey
Authors: Meriç Niyazi , Atlihan M. , Koşal Mehmet , Yüce Ülkü , Cinaroglu Aykut
Published: January 2010

In this study, the potential of Infrared Stimulated Luminescence (IRSL) and thermoluminescence (TL) for dating the archaeological samples (pottery sherds and soil sample adhered to surface of human bone) which were taken from a Necropolis was investigated. Archaeological sherds taken from Nusaybin (Mardin, Turkey), an archaeological site of archaic and Hellenistic period (from 330 BC to 30 AD), were dated. Samples were prepared by the fine grain technique and paleodose values were estimated by using multiple aliquot additive dose (MAAD) and single aliquot regenerative dose (SAR) procedures. The annual doses of uranium and thorium were determined by using the low level alpha counter. The potassium contents, which have no alpha activity, were determined by XRF equipment. The average age of the sherds were found to be 2375±170 years which is in good agreement with the archaeological evidence involving architecture of castle wall, Necropolis and column sherds in the vicinity of the site.
Influence of Climate on Radial Growth of Holm Oaks (Quercus Ilex Subsp. Ballota Desf) from SW Spain
Authors: Patón Daniel , García-Herrera Ricardo , Cuenca Javier , Galavis Mamen , Roig Fidel
Published: January 2010

A total of 47 trunk sections from Holm Oak (Quercus ilex subsp. ballota Desf) trees growing at two different sites at the Extremadura region (SW Spain) were considered in the computation of a regional tree-ring chronology useful to interpret the tree-ring/Mediterranean climate relationships. This is the first dendroclimatological research of Holm Oaks conducted to reveal its potential use as a climatic proxy. The obtained tree-ring chronologies were compared with climatic parameters based on monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall, and monthly maximum, minimum and average temperature. The best correlations were obtained with maximum temperatures during the period between previous winter and early spring. Influence of rainfall was less relevant. Growth of this species indicates a typical bimodal (spring and autumn) strategy that avoids low winter temperatures and summer drought. Despite some technical difficulties recognizing tree rings in Holm Oaks, its good sensitivity to climate variability and its wide distribution and longevity (~800 years), allow us to consider this species as a good candidate for temperature reconstructions in the Mediterranean Basin.
Approximation of Jacobian inverse kinematics algorithms
Authors: Tchoń Krzysztof , Karpińska Joanna , Janiak Mariusz
Published: January 2010

Approximation of Jacobian inverse kinematics algorithms

This paper addresses the synthesis problem of Jacobian inverse kinematics algorithms for stationary manipulators and mobile robots. Special attention is paid to the design of extended Jacobian algorithms that approximate the Jacobian pseudoinverse algorithm. Two approaches to the approximation problem are developed: one relies on variational calculus, the other is differential geometric. Example designs of the extended Jacobian inverse kinematics algorithm for 3DOF manipulators as well as for the unicycle mobile robot illustrate the theoretical concepts.
On path following control of nonholonomic mobile manipulators
Authors: Mazur Alicja , Szakiel Dawid
Published: January 2010

On path following control of nonholonomic mobile manipulators

This paper describes the problem of designing control laws for path following robots, including two types of nonholonomic mobile manipulators. Due to a cascade structure of the motion equation, a backstepping procedure is used to achieve motion along a desired path. The control algorithm consists of two simultaneously working controllers: the kinematic controller, solving motion constraints, and the dynamic controller, preserving an appropriate coordination between both subsystems of a mobile manipulator, i.e. the mobile platform and the manipulating arm. A description of the nonholonomic subsystem relative to the desired path using the Frenet parametrization is the basis for formulating the path following problem and designing a kinematic control algorithm. In turn, the dynamic control algorithm is a modification of a passivity-based controller. Theoretical deliberations are illustrated with simulations.
Controllability of nonlinear impulsive Ito type stochastic systems
Authors: Sakthivel Rathinasamy
Published: January 2010

Controllability of nonlinear impulsive Ito type stochastic systems

In this article, we consider finite dimensional dynamical control systems described by nonlinear impulsive Ito type stochastic integrodifferential equations. Necessary and sufficient conditions for complete controllability of nonlinear impulsive stochastic systems are formulated and proved under the natural assumption that the corresponding linear system is appropriately controllable. A fixed point approach is employed for achieving the required result.
Zeros in linear systems with time delay in state
Authors: Tokarzewski Jerzy
Published: January 2010

Zeros in linear systems with time delay in state

The concept of invariant zeros in a linear time-invariant system with state delay is considered. In the state-space framework, invariant zeros are treated as triples: complex number, nonzero state-zero direction, input-zero direction. Such a treatment is strictly related to the output-zeroing problem and in that spirit the zeros can be easily interpreted. The problem of zeroing the system output is discussed. For systems of uniform rank, the first nonzero Markov parameter comprises a certain amount of information concerning invariant zeros, output-zeroing inputs and zero dynamics. General formulas for output-zeroing inputs and zero dynamics are provided.
Indirect adaptive controller based on a self-structuring fuzzy system for nonlinear modeling and control
Authors: Qi Ruiyun , Brdys Mietek
Published: January 2010

Indirect adaptive controller based on a self-structuring fuzzy system for nonlinear modeling and control

In this paper, a unified nonlinear modeling and control scheme is presented. A self-structuring Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model is used to approximate the unknown nonlinear plant based on I/O data collected on-line. Both the structure and the parameters of the T-S fuzzy model are updated by an on-line clustering method and a recursive least squares estimation (RLSE) algorithm. The rules of the fuzzy model can be added, replaced or deleted on-line to allow a more flexible and compact model structure. The overall controller consists of an indirect adaptive controller and a supervisory controller. The former is the dominant controller, which maintains the closed-loop stability when the fuzzy system is a good approximation of the nonlinear plant. The latter is an auxiliary controller, which is activated when the tracking error reaches the boundary of a predefined constraint set. It is proven that global stability of the closed-loop system is guaranteed in the sense that all the closed-loop signals are bounded and simulation examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
The steady-state impedance operator of a linear periodically time-varying one-port network and its determination
Authors: Kłosiński Radosław
Published: January 2010

The steady-state impedance operator of a linear periodically time-varying one-port network and its determination

The main subject of the paper is the description and determination of the impedance operator of a linear periodically timevarying (LPTV) one-port network in the steady-state. If the one-port network parameters and the supply vary periodically with the same period, the network reaches a periodic steady state. However, the sinusoidal supply may induce a non-sinusoidal voltage or current. It is impossible to describe such a phenomenon by means of one complex number. A periodically time-varying one-port network working in a steady-state regime can be described with a circular parametric operator. Within the domain of discrete time, such an operator takes the form of a matrix with real-valued entries. The circular parametric operator can be transformed into the frequency domain using a two-dimensional DFT. This description makes it possible to quantitatively assess LPTV system input and output harmonics aliasing. The paper also presents the derivation and the proof of convergence of an iteration scheme for the identification of circular parametric operators. The scheme may be used to determine the impedance of an LPTV one-port network. Some results of computer simulations are shown.
Some remarks on evaluating the quality of the multiple sequence alignment based on the BAliBASE benchmark
Authors: Błażewicz Jacek , Formanowicz Piotr , Wojciechowski Paweł
Published: January 2010

Some remarks on evaluating the quality of the multiple sequence alignment based on the BAliBASE benchmark

BAliBASE is one of the most widely used benchmarks for multiple sequence alignment programs. The accuracy of alignment methods is measured bybali_score—an application provided together with the database. The standard accuracy measures are the Sum of Pairs (SP) and the Total Column (TC). We have found that, for non-core block columns, results calculated bybali_scoreare different from those obtained on the basis of the formal definitions of the measures. We do not claim that one of these measures is better than the other, but they are definitely different. Such a situation can be the source of confusion when alignments obtained using various methods are compared. Therefore, we propose a new nomenclature for the measures of the quality of multiple sequence alignments to distinguish which one was actually calculated. Moreover, we have found that the occurrence of a gap in some column in the first sequence of the reference alignment causes column discarding.
Autonomic Innervation of Pancreas in Egyptian Spiny Mouse (Acomys cahirinus, Desmarest)
Authors: Szczurkowski Aleksander , Kuchinka Jacek , Nowak Elzbieta , Kuder Tadeusz
Published: January 2010

The aim of the study was to obtain details of the morphology of the autonomic innervation of pancreas. Six adult Egyptian spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus, Desmarest) were studied for the presence and location of autonomic fibres and cells in the pancreas. The macromorphological investigations were performed using the thiocholine method adapted for this type of specimens. For processing tissues two histochemical techniques were used: thiocholine method on activity of AChE and the glyoxylic acid method for adrenergic structures. Cholinergic fibres and small autonomic ganglia were found among the secretory sections and along the pancreatic duct and both pancreaticoduodenal arteries, and its branches, reaching the Langerhans islets and forming around them a kind of net. From 24 to 40 AChE-positive ganglions in the whole exocrine part were observed. The highest density of cholinergic fibres was observed in the head of pancreas. Numerous adrenergic fibres that accompanied blood vessels as well as interlobular and intralobular ducts were found inside the exocrine parts of the pancreas. Neither adrenergic cells or adrenergic fibres were observed inside the pancreatic islets. Our results can be used in comparative anatomy studies of pancreas in mammals.
Amino Acid Profile of Protein from Pelvic Limb Long Bones of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Straková Eva , Suchý Pavel , Herzig Ivan , Steinhauser Ladislav , Šerman Vlasta , Mas Nora
Published: January 2010

The objective of the study was to determine the amino acid profile in protein from long bones of the pelvic limb (femur, tibiotarsus) in ROSS 308 hybrid broiler chickens, and to examine whether it is sex-dependent.The study material was obtained from 120 Ross 308 broiler chickens (60 males and 60 females) at the end of the fattening (40 days of age). The average weight of birds was 2 694 ± 32.6 g for cockerels and 2 345 ± 23.9 g for pullets. The study birds did not show any clinical signs of leg diseases. The long bones of the right pelvic limbs (femur and tibiotarsus) were collected after bird slaughter and after removal of soft tissues, they were used for laboratory analyses. The crude protein content and the amino acid (AA) composition were determined and the obtained values were recalculated to 100% dry matter. The chemical score (CS) and the essential amino acid index (EAAI) were calculated for each AA. As a standard, the hen egg ovalbumin was used. The crude protein content in 100% dry matter shows that the content of crude protein was significantly higher (P ⪬ 0.01) in the femur (405.3 ± 17.21 g/kg) compared to the tibiotarsus (393.5 ± 12.68 g/kg). The same trends were found with regard to sex. Both males and females had significantly (P ⪬ 0.01) higher crude protein content in the femur (406.6 ± 19.34 g/kg and 404.1 ± 15.09 g/kg, respectively) than in the tibiotarsus (395.0 ± 12.16 g/kg and 392.1 ± 13.21 g/kg, respectively). Both bones showed the highest contents of Gly, Glu and Pro, and the lowest contents of Met, Tyr and His. The same trends were found with regard to chicken sex. Collagenous protein has lower contents of most AA in comparison to the standard protein - ovalbumin; especially contents of Ser, Val, Met, Ileu and Phe are substantially lower. On the other hand, collagenous protein had higher contents of Gly, Pro, His and Arg. The collagenous protein EAAI for the femur and the tibiotarsus was 59.0% and 57.4%, respectively. The knowledge of amino acid composition in protein from long bones of the pelvic limb in broiler chickens is important because it can help us understand the origin of bone disorders.
Aorta Remodelling Associated with Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide Concentration in Rats with Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Kochová Petra , Tonar Zbyněk , Matějka Vít M. , Švíglerová Jitka , Štengl Milan , Kuncová Jitka
Published: January 2010

Long-term hypertension in arteries leads to remodelling of the arterial wall. We focused on morphological changes in the wall of the subrenal aorta in rats suffering from arterial hypertension and chronic renal failure induced by 5/6 nephrectomy (NX). We quantified the area of the profile of the arterial lumen, the volume fraction of elastin and smooth muscle cells (SMC) in the tunica media, the thickness of the intima-media, the length density of elastin lamellae, the lamellar unit thickness and the lamellar number. Calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) was assayed in extracts of aortic tissue and in plasma. Ten days after the subtotal nephrectomy, the structure of the aorta of NX rats did not differ compared to control animals. Pronounced structural changes were observed ten weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy. The area of the lumen profile, the elastin volume fraction and the elastin lamellar number in the tunica media were all significantly higher (p < 0.001) in NX than in control animals. The SMC volume fraction in the tunica media and the lamellar unit thickness were lower (p < 0.001) in NX than in control animals. The CGRP concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the aortas and in plasma of NX rats both ten days and ten weeks after operation when compared to sham operated animals. Our study demonstrated intensive remodelling of the aorta over the course of 10 weeks following induction of chronic renal failure. This was associated with a long-term increase in calcitonin gene related pep tide concentrations in the plasma and aorta.
Effects of Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH-γ-Isomer, Lindane) Intoxication on the Proliferation and Apoptosis in Rat Testes
Authors: Yuksel Hayati , Karadas Erkan , Keles Hikmet , Demirel Hasan Huseyin
Published: January 2010

In this study, experimentally lindane-induced histopathological changes and proliferation and/or apoptosis in germ cells in the rat testes were investigated. A total of 40 healthy fertile 3-month-old male rats were used. Animals were divided into 4 groups, each containing 10 rats. Group 1 (control) was given only pure olive oil, Groups 2, 3 and 4 were administered lindane at 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg/bw, respectively, by gastric gavage for 30 days. Microscopically, degenerative changes were observed in the lindane-treated groups. For proliferative activity PCNA immunolabelling and for germ cells apoptosis TUNEL methods were performed. Although a strong PCNA positivity in the control group was observed, a gradual decrease was noted in the lindane-treated groups especially at higher doses. Significant increases of apoptosis were seen in the lindane-treated groups compared to the control group. A decrease in testosterone concentrations was observed in lindane-treated groups compared to the control group. The study indicates that high-dose lindane intoxication contributes to the suppression of spermatogenesis through a reduction of germ cell proliferation and an increase of germ cell death in rat testes.
ELISA for Detection of Soya Proteins in Meat Products
Authors: Renčová Eva , Tremlová Bohuslava
Published: January 2010

Indirect competitive ELISA method for the detection of soya proteins in meat products was developed. The detection limit of the method is 0.5% of the weight of added soya protein. A total of 131 meat product samples such as salamis or sausages from the Czech Republic market were investigated for the presence of soya proteins. Soya proteins were detected in 84% of the investigated samples without any declaration on the package of the product. The use of vegetable additives, namely soya in meat products in the market of the Czech Republic is very frequent and the restriction of its usage by legislation relates only to some kinds of durable products and ham (Act 264/2003 Coll.). The need for sensitive inspecting methods for soya protein detection is not only associated with the economic aspect (adulteration), but mainly with consumer health protection in case of allergy to soya proteins.
Application of DNA-based Techniques for Intraspecies Differentiation of Hake Fish
Authors: Hubálková Zora , Králík Petr , Kasalová Janka , Renčová Eva
Published: January 2010

Fish species identification is important as the interest of consumers in sea-fish meat is increasing. The aim of this study was to determine hake species distribution on the Czech market by the PCR-RFLP and sequencing of mt cyt b, and to develop and optimise an alternative system for determination of hake species by sequencing and/or PCR-RFLP using Pan I sequence. Among 20 samples of hake obtained on the Czech market three species were identified: North Pacific hake (Merluccius productus), Argentine hake (Merluccius hubbsi) and South Pacific hake (Merluccius gayi). The approaches tested in our study represent a significant tool either for the differentiation of hake species from other gadoid species (PCR) or for intraspecies identification of different hake species (PCR-RFLP, sequencing). This knowledge can be applied in detection of fish species substitution within the consumers' rights protection.
Impact of Heat Treatment on the Freezing Points of Cow and Goat Milk
Authors: Janštová Bohumíra , Navrátilová Pavlína , Dračková Michaela , Přidalová Hana , Vorlová Lenka
Published: January 2010

The aim of this study was to monitor the impact of heat treatment variables on the freezing point of cow and goat milk. The freezing point (FP) was established in 30 bulk tank samples of goat milk and in 30 bulk tank samples of cow milk which were subject to laboratory heat treatment at temperatures of 72 °C (A), 85 °C (B), 95 °C (C), with the same exposition times of 20 s. Freezing point measurements of raw and heat-treated milk were carried out in compliance with the Standard CTS 57 0538 by a thermistor cryoscope. The FP of raw cow milk increased with heat treatment from the initial values of -0.5252 ± 0.0114 °C (O) by 0.0023 °C (A), 0.0034 °C (B) and 0.0051°C (C). Changes in FP values of goat milk were detected, from its initial value of –0.5530 ± 0.0086 °C there was an increase in the FP depending on the mode of heat treatment due to pasteurization by an average of 0.0028 °C (A), 0.0036 °C (B) and 0.0054 °C (C). The dynamics of the changes were similar both in goat and cow milk. Freezing point values in cow and goat milk differed (P ⪬ 0.01) when compared to the freezing point of untreated milk after the individual interventions as well as when compared between each other. An increase in the heat treatment temperature of cow and goat milk causes an increase in the freezing point (a shift towards zero). These results can be used in practice for checking the raw material in dairy industry.
Determination Residues of Penicillin G and Cloxacillin in Raw Cow Milk Using Fourier Transform Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Dračková Michaela , Navrátilová Pavlína , Hadra Luboš , Vorlová Lenka , Hudcová Lenka
Published: January 2010

The objective of this study was to study the use of Fourier transform near infrared spectroscopy (FTNIR) combined with the partial least square (PLS) method for determining the residues of penicillin and cloxacillin in raw milk. The spectra were measured in the reflectance mode with transflectance cell in the spectral range of 10,000 – 4,000 cm-1 with 100 scans. Calibration models were developed. They were assessed statistically based on correlation coefficients (R) and standard errors of calibration (SEC). For penicillin, the following values were established: R = 0.951 and SEC = 0.004. For cloxacillin, they were R = 0.871 and SEC = 0.007. These calibration models were verified later with cross-validation. Better results were obtained in the calibration and validation models that were developed on milk samples coming from one farm. Using FT-NIR, the maximum residue limit (MRL) of cloxacillin in milk can be determined. However, standard errors of calibration and validation for penicillin G exceed the fixed MRL. FT-NIR spectroscopy is not a suitable method for accurate determination of these substances in raw milk. Variability in milk composition has a major influence on detection of substances present at very low concentrations.
Depressive Disorders among Adolescents Managed in a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
Authors: Wiggins Aaron , Oakley Mark Browne , Bearsley-Smith Cate , Villanueva Elmer
Published: January 2010

Objective: The aims were to describe the prevalence and treatment of depressive disorders among case-managed adolescents attending a regional Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

Method: An observational study was conducted in a regional CAMHS over a 3-month period. Clinicians recorded treatment of their case-managed adolescents aged 12–18 years at the end of each calendar month. The Health of the Nation Outcome Scale for Children and Adolescents (HoNOSCA) and Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) were collected at the beginning of the study period or at entry into the service, and repeated at discharge from the service or at the conclusion of the study period. Adolescents also completed the Reynold's Adolescent Depression Scale, 2nd edition.

Results: Depressive disorders were the most common clinician diagnosis reported (22%). There was no statistically significant difference in treatment for depressed compared to non-depressed adolescents. There was a statistically significant improvement in both the HoNOSCA scores (p < 0.001) and CGAS scores (p < 0.001) for the whole sample.

Conclusion: Treatment appeared to be the same in type for depressed compared to non-depressed adolescents case managed within CAMHS.
The Challenge of Scientific Uncertainty and Disunity in Risk Assessment and Management of GM Crops
Authors: Myhr Anne Ingeborg
Published: January 2010

The controversy over commercial releases of genetically modified (GM) crops demonstrates that there is a need for new approaches that are more broadly based, transparent and able to acknowledge the uncertainties involved. This article investigates whether new forms of knowledge productionas prescribed in the concept of post-normal science can improve risk governance of GM crops. The GM science review carried out in the UK in 2003 serves as a case study and the focus is on how scientific uncertainty and public concern was taken into account. Some recommendations are advanced for assessing scientific uncertainty, for accommodating scientific disputes and for integrating stakeholders’ interests and perspectives in relations to GM crops.
Virtual Water Trade, Sustainability and Territorial Equity across Phases of Globalisation in India
Authors: Adhikary Maniklal , Chowdhury Samrat
Published: January 2010

The aim of this paper is to bring out the effect of economic reforms introduced in India on the direction of virtual water trade (through trade of agricultural products). The study also identifies the dual role that virtual water has in an economy. It is a source of export earnings (benefit side), but at the same time there is a loss of virtual water (cost side) through agricultural trade. The study is novel in the sense that it not only identifies the trade-off between benefits and costs of virtual water trade for India, but also tries to capture the impact of phases of globalisation on the trade-off. The cost side has serious implications on sustainability and territorial equity. In order to address the issues more coherently, we have to introduce a concept of virtual water miles. Then we argue with intuitive reasoning about the possible effects of virtual water trade on sustainability as well as on territorial equity.
Swine Flu Pandemic: Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur , Mumu Mahbuba Ashrafi
Published: January 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bjpath.v24i2.4109Bangladesh J Pathol 24(2): 1-3
Pathology of Early Malignant Change in the Ovary: A short review article
Authors: Ferdous Shamima , Sarnali Tanjila Tahmin
Published: January 2010

Key words: Ovarian tumor-early malignant changeDOI: 10.3329/bjpath.v24i2.4114Bangladesh J Pathol 24(2): 21-24
Studies on the Structural and Optical Properties of AgIn1-XGaXSe2 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) thin Films
Authors: Chowdhury FA , Begum J , Quadir L , Hasan SM Firoz
Published: January 2010

Polycrystalline thin films of AgIn1-XGaXSe2 (AIGS) with varying x (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) have been grown onto glass substrates by stacked elemental layer (SEL) deposition technique in vacuum (~10-6 mbar). The thickness of the films was kept constant at 500 nm measured on line by frequency shift of quartz crystal. The films were annealed in situ at 300°C for 15 minutes. Structural and optical properties of the films were ascertained by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometry (photon wavelength ranging between 300 and 2500 nm) respectively. The diffractogram indicates that these films are polycrystalline in nature. The optical transmittance spectra reveal a maximum transmission of 85.91% around 1100 nm of wavelength for x = 0.2. A sharp absorption region is evident from the transmittance spectra that indicate a standard semiconducting nature of the films. The abruptness at the fundamental edge is more distinct in the film with x = 0.2. Optical transmittance, reflectance and thickness of the films were utilized to compute the absorption coefficient, band gap energy and refractive index of the films. The optical band gap is found to be direct-allowed. The band gap energy value, found from this study ranging between 2.3 to 2.4 eV, is very close for different gallium content films. The refractive indices increase almost linearly with photon wavelength range between 1300 and 1500 nm. DOI: 10.3329/jbas.v33i2.4098 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 33, No. 2, 151-157, 2009
Elemental Profiling of Surface Water around Dhaka City by Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Ahmed MF , Abedin KM , Sadat ME , Talukder AI , Wahadoszamen M , Haider AFMY
Published: January 2010

Using the technique of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), which uses a pulsed laser to create plasma and advanced spectroscopic techniques, we analyzed the contents of surface water (river water) around the city of Dhaka. Several elements such as Li, C, Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Sr were identified in the water samples collected in addition to Cr, which was found at two locations at different concentrations. Chromium is a toxic element, and its presence at high concentrations is hazardous for human beings as well as the environment. Its presence in water is suspected due to the effluent discharge from the nearby tanning industries. Semi-quantitative analysis of the chromium present was performed. To our knowledge, this is the first example of the application of the LIBS technique in water analysis in Bangladesh. DOI: 10.3329/jbas.v33i2.4104 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 33, No. 2, 209-218, 2009
Calculation of Radiation and Matter Dominant Universe by Applying the Power Law Inflation
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Sajjad , Azad Md Abul Kalam
Published: January 2010

The homogeneous and isotropic Brans-Dicke cosmological solutions satisfying Whitrow-Randall's relation which have been discussed by Bermann and Som were examined. After correcting an error in their work, we extended and examined their results obtaining the radiation and matter dominant universe applying the power law. DOI: 10.3329/jbas.v33i2.4105 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 33, No. 2, 219-226, 2009
Effects of Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Soybean, Glycine max
Authors: Morshed RM , Rahman MM , Rahman MA
Published: January 2010

DOI: 10.3329/jbas.v33i2.4108 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 33, No. 2, 235-237, 2009
Twin oil sacs facilitate the evolution of a novel type of pollination unit (meranthium) in a South African orchid
Authors: Steiner Kim E.
Published: January 2010

The unique floral morphology of the South African orchid H. pulchra, with its twin meranthia, is best explained as an adaptation to pollination by oil‐collecting bees. Flowers consisting of meranthia (floral parts that function as single pollination units; commonly observed in garden Iris) are extremely rare among the angiosperms and their significance poorly understood. Unlike all other known examples of meranthia, the novel type described for H. pulchra is not bilabiate. All Huttonaea species are unique in having twin petal sacs with glandular verrucae that secrete oil and are pollinated by Rediviva (Melittidae) oil‐collecting bees. But only Huttonaea pulchra has long and widely divergent petal claws that place the oil sacs well beyond the reach of a centrally positioned bee. The wide separation of these sacs forces the pollinator, R. colorata, to visit each side of the flower independently and effectively divides the flower into two meranthia. Molecular data indicate that the evolution of the Huttonaea‐type meranthium was dependent on the prior evolution of the oil flower/oil bee relationship. Meranthium evolution was also facilitated by the presence of oil in two separate structures (petal sacs) that were not physically constrained to remain in close proximity.
The Occupational Self Assessment: Stability and the Ability to Detect Change over Time
Authors: Kielhofner Gary , Dobria Lidia , Forsyth Kirsty , Kramer Jessica
Published: January 2010

The Occupational Self Assessment (OSA) was designed to guide collaborative treatment planning and measure client-reported change to document therapy outcomes. This study examined the stability of the OSA and its ability to detect changes in reported Competence and Values. The OSA was administered twice to 112 participants with disabilities 58 to 650 days apart. A Rasch rating scale model was used to analyze the data and determine the stability. Competence and Values items were stable over time. The Competence rating scale was used by participants in the same manner at both administrations. However, the Values rating scale was used differently at time 2; participants were less likely to use the Values rating scale category “More important” at time 2. Thirty-two percent and 49% of participants had significantly different measures at time 2 on Competence and Values scales, respectively. This study lends support for the use of the OSA as a client-reported outcome measure.
Activity Resumption after Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Lyons Kathleen Doyle , Root Lynn D. , Kimtis Elizabeth , Schaal Anna D. , Stearns Diane M. , Williams Idalina C. , Meehan Kenneth , Ahles Tim A.
Published: January 2010

Stem cell transplantation is an aggressive therapy for hematological malignancies in which a damaged immune system is essentially destroyed and replaced with healthy stem cells. This article reports the results of semi-structured interviews with 18 survivors of either autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Participants were interviewed after they had reached 100 days post-transplant and asked to discuss their activities, daily routines, and experiences since being discharged from the hospital. Activity engagement was mentioned by participants as a way to promote health, help reconnect one with his or her pre-transplant identity and lifestyle, and measure progress toward improved stamina. Although many participants reported a gradual resumption of previous routines, some participants described a more complicated process of reconstructing their daily routine in response to changes in their environment or career.
An Analytical Framework for the Assessment of the Mobile IP Overhead Involved in the Integrated Internet-MANET
Authors: Khan Khaleel Ur Rahman , Zaman Rafi U , Reddy A Venugopal
Published: January 2010

Quite a few strategies have been proposed for integrating mobile ad hoc networks and the Internet. A need has been felt for an analytical model that would facilitate a formal definition and comparison of different integration strategies without actually implementing them in a simulated environment. In this paper, we present an analytical framework based on the concept of a Relay Path Set (RPS). This model can be used to describe, compare the different strategies for integrating mobile Ad Hoc networks and the Internet, propose new strategies and suggest improvements in the existing strategies at different module levels. The proposed model has been applied on a few of the existing Integration strategies and performance comparison has also been made. We also discuss the future work that can be carried out using the proposed framework.
A Cost Effective Method for Determining the Position of Mine Haul Road Defects from the Road Edge
Authors: Sokolic Frank , Rawlins Mark , Duffy Kevin Jan
Published: January 2010

This paper describes a simple method for estimating haul road defect positions from alongside roads. It is a method that is cheap and easy to implement, needing only a minimal amount of field equipment and training. Observers are required to estimate the bearing and distance to a defect, and to record their location using a GPS receiver. All further processing is automated and can be done entirely within a spatially-enabled database management system such as Microsoft SQL Server or PostgreSQL.
Self‐directed learning of basic musculoskeletal ultrasound among rheumatologists in the United States
Authors: Kissin Eugene Y. , Nishio Jane , Yang Mei , Backhaus Marina , Balint Peter V. , Bruyn George A. W. , Craig‐Muller Jurgen , D'Agostino Maria A. , Feoktistov Alexander , Goyal Janak , Iagnocco Annamaria , Ike Robert W. , Moller Ingrid , Naredo Esperanza , Pineda Carlos , Schmidt Wolfgang A. , Swen Nanno , Tabechian Darren , Wakefield Richard J. , Wells Alvin F. , Kaeley Gurjit S.
Published: January 2010

Objective

Because musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) is highly user dependent, we aimed to establish whether non‐mentored learning of MSUS is sufficient to achieve the same level of diagnostic accuracy and scanning reliability as has been achieved by rheumatologists recognized as international experts in MSUS.

Methods

A group of 8 rheumatologists with more experience in MSUS and 8 rheumatologists with less experience in MSUS participated in an MSUS exercise to assess patients with musculoskeletal abnormalities commonly seen in a rheumatology practice. Patients' established diagnoses were obtained from chart review (gout, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and seronegative arthritis). Two examining groups were formed, each composed of 4 less experienced and 4 more experienced examiners. Each group scanned 1 predefined body region (hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, or ankle) in each of 8 patients, blinded to medical history and physical examination. Structural abnormalities were noted with dichotomous answers, and an open‐ended answer was used for the final diagnosis.

Results

Less experienced and more experienced examiners achieved the same diagnostic accuracy (US‐established diagnosis versus chart review diagnosis). The interrater reliability for tissue pathology was slightly higher for more experienced versus less experienced examiners (κ = 0.43 versus κ = 0.34; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Non‐mentored training in MSUS can lead to the achievement of diagnostic accuracy in MSUS comparable to that achieved by highly experienced international experts. Reliability may increase slightly with additional experience. Further study is needed to determine the minimal training requirement to achieve proficiency in MSUS.
Within‐subregion relationship between bone marrow lesions and subsequent cartilage loss in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Kothari Ami , Guermazi Ali , Chmiel Joan S. , Dunlop Dorothy , Song Jing , Almagor Orit , Marshall Meredith , Cahue September , Prasad Pottumarthi , Sharma Leena
Published: January 2010

Objective

Bone marrow lesions are believed to increase risk of knee osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Whether their effect is local and whether it can be explained by other types of bone lesions concomitantly present in the same subregion is unclear. We evaluated bone lesion frequency in subregions without cartilage lesions and cartilage lesion frequency in subregions without bone lesions, and investigated the within‐subregion bone marrow lesion/subsequent cartilage loss relationship after adjusting for other types of bone lesions at baseline.

Methods

Individuals with knee OA had magnetic resonance imaging at baseline and 2 years later. Cartilage integrity and bone marrow lesions, cysts, and attrition were scored within tibiofemoral subregions. Logistic regression, with generalized estimating equations to account for correlation among multiple subregions within a knee, was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for cartilage loss associated with bone marrow lesions, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and bone attrition and cysts in the same subregion.

Results

Analyzing 1,953 subregions among 177 knees, 90% of subregions had no bone lesions at baseline. Only 0–3% of subregions without cartilage lesions had bone lesions in the same subregion; in contrast, 5–33% of subregions without bone lesions had cartilage lesions. Bone marrow lesions at baseline were associated with cartilage loss in the same subregion at 2 years, adjusting for other types of bone lesions at baseline (adjusted OR 3.74, 95% confidence interval 1.59–8.82).

Conclusion

In subjects with knee OA, bone marrow lesions were rare at early disease stages but predicted subregional cartilage loss after accounting for the presence of other types of bone lesions in the same subregion.
Protocols for the initial treatment of moderately severe juvenile dermatomyositis: Results of a Children's Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Consensus Conference
Authors: Huber Adam M. , Giannini Edward H. , Bowyer Suzanne L. , Kim Susan , Lang Bianca , Lindsley Carol B. , Pachman Lauren M. , Pilkington Clarissa , Reed Ann M. , Rennebohm Robert M. , Rider Lisa G. , Wallace Carol A. , Feldman Brian M.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To use juvenile dermatomyositis (DM) survey data and expert opinion to develop a small number of consensus treatment protocols, which reflect current initial treatment of moderately severe juvenile DM.

Methods

A consensus meeting was held in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on December 1–2, 2007. Nominal group technique was used to achieve consensus on treatment protocols, which represented typical management of moderately severe juvenile DM. Consensus was also reached as to which patients these protocols would be applicable (inclusion and exclusion criteria), which initial investigations should be done prior to initiating one of these protocols, which data should be collected to evaluate these protocols, and the concomitant interventions required or recommended.

Results

Three protocols that described the first 2 months of treatment were developed. All protocols included corticosteroids and methotrexate. One protocol also included intravenous gamma globulin. Consensus was achieved for all issues that were addressed by conference participants, although there were some areas of controversy.

Conclusion

Despite considerable variation in clinical practice, it is possible to achieve consensus on the initial treatment of juvenile DM. Once these protocols are extended beyond 2 months, these protocols will be available for clinical use. By using methods that account for differences between patients (confounding by indication), the comparative effectiveness of the protocols will be evaluated. In the future, the goal will be to identify the optimal treatment of moderately severe juvenile DM.
Disengaging from a distributed research project: Refining a model of group departures
Authors: Kazmer Michelle M.
Published: January 2010

Understanding how groups end and how group members depart helps us understand how these ending and departure processes affect group outcomes, individuals' willingness and ability to work in subsequent groups together or with others, and the maintenance of group‐generated knowledge over time. In this article, a distributed, grant‐funded research project group provides the setting for an analysis of the process that members went through as they disengaged from and dismantled their group when the funding period ended and the project was winding down. Qualitative interviews with group members were analyzed using a model of disengaging that was developed in an earlier study. The model comprises 12 interwoven parts of a disengaging process that begins well before the group ends and extends beyond the official termination of the group. The model frames the analysis and is revised as a result of the research findings.