bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of Soil Applied Organic Compounds From Three Petroleum Wastes
Authors: Brown K.W. , Donnelly K.C. , Thomas J.C. , Davol P. , Kampbell D.
Published: June 2011

The degradation rates of three industrial wastes were evaluated under simulated land treatment conditions. A wood-preserving bottom sediment, storm-water runoff impoundment sludge, and combined API-separator/slop-oil emulsion solid waste were applied to greenhouse boxes containing Norwood silt loam or Bastrop clay soils. Soil samples were collected before waste application and 0, 180, 360 and 540 days following application. Solvent extractable organic compounds were determined gravimetrically, and a GC/MS/DS system was used to identify major extractable organic constituents. The most rapid degradation rate over a 360 day period was observed in the Bastrop soil amended with the combined API separator/slop-oil emulsion solid waste. The half-lives of the total extractable hydrocarbons ranged from a low of 217 days for the combined API waste in the Bastrop soil to a high of 340 days for the storm-water runoff waste in the Norwood soil. Major residual organic constituents in the waste amended soil after 60 days incubation included pentachlorophenol, fluoranthene, pyrene, dihydro acenaphthylene, cyclopenta phenanthrene and trimethyl naphthalene. These results indicate that large quantities of oil hydrocarbons can be degraded by soil application, and significant differences in degradation rates will occur between different wastes and soils.
Liner Materials Exposed To Municipal Solid Waste Leachate
Authors: Haxo Henry E. , White Richard M. , Haxo Paul D. , Fong Michael A.
Published: June 2011

A laboratory study was conducted to determine the potential of various lining materials for controlling the movement of leachate from municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills. In the course of the study, 65 materials were subjected to at least one of seven different tests in which they were exposed to MSW leachate. These exposure tests involved placing liner samples in (1) landfill simulators containing 2.4 m (8 ft) of compacted, shredded refuse, (2) immersion tanks containing MSW leachate or water and (3) polybutylene bags containing deionized water. Materials tested included four admix materials, two asphaltic membranes, 50 commercial polymeric membranes, and nine miscellaneous materials.

Exposing a wide range of polymeric membranes to a typical MSW leachate in the landfill simulators for up to 56 months produced only limited changes in liner properties. Asphaltic materials did exhibit deficiencies that might affect their serviceability as linings for MSW waste disposal facilities. The properties of soil cement tended to improve during exposure.
Standardized Procedures for Planting Vegetation On Completed Sanitary Landfills
Authors: Gilman Edward F. , Flower Franklin B. , Leone Ida D.
Published: June 2011

Standardized procedures were developed for those charge with establishing a vegetative cover on completed landfills. Special problems associated with growing plants on these sites are discussed, and step-by-step instructions are given for converting a closed landfill to a variety of end uses requiring a vegetative cover. Procedures are outlined for vegetating landfills with either limited or adequate funds.
Waste Management in Sweden. a National Report
Authors: Rylander H.
Published: June 2011

In 1975 the Swedish Government passed a bill "Recovery and Management of Waste" which resulted in State support for up to 50% of the capital cost of plants for the recovery or other utilization of domestic waste. Between 15 and 20 new plants for waste separation and composting were built between 1972 and 1982. More than 50% of domestic waste paper is recovered and sold to paper mills. Approximately 10% of total domestic waste is separated and composted. The remainder is nearly equally distributed between landfills and incinerators. About 93% of the recoverable energy from incineration is used for district heating. This represents only 5% of the total heating requirement for the country although in some regions the heat from waste is nearly a quarter of the total. The start-up problems of separation and composting plants using new and untested technology have been largely solved. However the market for the separated residues, iron, paper, plastic, compost and refuse derived fuel, has not been developed. Refuse derived fuel has not proved suitable for use with other solid fuels. Compost has too high a content of glass and plastic to suit customs. A special operational study of Solid Waste Treatment has been organized to evaluate different treatments and recommend improvements.
Estimation of Solid Waste Generation Rates in the City of Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Lohani B.N. , Hartono Djoko M.
Published: June 2011

This paper deals with the estimation of solid waste generation rates by empirical methods. A study conducted in the city of Bandung in Indonesia using seven solid wastes sources, residential areas, theatres, streets, restaurants, offices, stores and markets, indicated that some variables had strong correlation with solid waste generation rates. For obtaining the significant level of the variables concerned with each solid waste source, the multiple linear regression programme of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used. From the result obtained, it was possible to obtain a correlation between moisture content and composition of each component of the solid waste.
Landfill Caps: Long Term Investments in Need of Attention
Authors: Johnson David I. , Urie Dean H.
Published: June 2011

The various physical and biological forces which will degrade landfill caps are reviewed. In particular soil erosion may be accelerated by the presence of impermeable liners too close to the surface. Water penetration of clay surface soils may be augmented by cracks caused by drying and by holes produced by earthworms, burrowing mammals and plant roots. Some research needs are outlined to help maintain landfills over long periods.
Long-Term Planning for Solid Waste Management
Authors: Wilson David C.
Published: June 2011

The continuing provision of an efficient, reliable and cost-effective service for solid waste management requires the preparation of a sound long-range plan. It is suggested here that such a plan is one which has been chosen by local politicians from a short list of alternative plans, each of which has been evaluated in depth. An examination of the few plans currently available in the U.K. suggests that this ideal is far from being achieved.

This article critically examines each of the steps involved in producing a sound plan. Some of the political issues which underpin the planning process are addressed, while existing computer models to assist the evaluation of plans are examined and found wanting. A new approach is introduced, in which the waste manager himself (or herself) uses the computer "interactively", interjecting his skill and judgement as required, with the aim of shortlisting for further study several interestingly different plans, each having a similar cost.
An Application of Multi-Criteria Evaluation in Assessing Municipal Solid Waste Treatment and Disposal Systems
Authors: Maimone Mark
Published: June 2011

A comparative study of the major solid waste treatment and disposal systems in use in the Netherlands today are compared, using a wide range of evaluative criteria covering efficiency, cost, effectiveness in recycling raw materials and energy, and environmental impact. Use is made of a multi-criteria evaluation technique for the comparison. Since the systems are compared independent of their future location, the results of the analysis are generally applicable to all regions of The Netherlands. The study is primarily intended as an aid in designing a solid waste management programme, and provides information on the relative advantages and disadvantages of each system reviewed.
Waste Management in Northern Europe
Authors: Arnott Robert A.
Published: June 2011

Hazardous and municipal waste management in the F.R.G., France, the U.K. and Denmark are reviewed from the point of view of U.S. practices. There are no significant differences in technology, but the continental system for total waste management as a public utility is novel. The need to minimize illegal dumpings, which, in the first instance, is always less expensive than high technology treatment and disposal, conflicts with the "polluter pays" principle. The latter is recognized as a public relations tool, but government subsidies are used extensively to retain a high fraction of the total wastes within the system.
Training of Waste Operators Pays in the Long Term
Authors: Gears A.M.
Published: June 2011

The experience of the Biffa Waste Services Company in the training of waste operators is reviewed. The Company has adopted a marketing platform for its many services which recognizes the important part that the environment plays and believes that only through training of everyone will its objectives be achieved. The collection operator is high on the list of training priorities. Training is seen as just one facet of an interlocking series of activities which has helped the company to grow. It goes beyond the point of driver training and includes the concept of training the company's operators in waste handling.
Design and Operation of Future Landfills in Hong Kong
Authors: Pugh M.P. , Rushbrook P.E. , Parker A.
Published: June 2011

Nine sites were evaluated as potential sanitary landfills for the co-disposal of household and industrial waste from Hong Kong. Many of the problems associated with landfill sites in Hong Kong are related to its climate and topography. Methods of limiting infiltration of rainfall and groundwater are discussed, together with alternative means of leachate collection, treatment and disposal, including on-site treatment and bulk tankering to sea disposal.

The study was carried out to obtain cost data for use by the Hong Kong Government in the preparation of their waste disposal plan. The results of the study showed wide variations in estimated annualized costs, reflecting the range of site-specific development work required.
Use of Tannery Sludge in Brick Production
Authors: Giugliano M. , Paggi A.
Published: June 2011

A laboratory and pilot plant study has shown that tannery sludges can be used in brick manufacture for up to 10% of the dry weight of bricks. Bricks containing sludge are higher in porosity than controls. Bending strength and frost resistance are acceptable at 10% but are decreased below acceptable levels in bricks made with 15% sludge. Increased emission of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbon vapours from the sludge in the preheating zone of the furnace could easily be taken care of by recycling this exhaust to the high temperature zone.
Electricity From Solid Waste At Lakeland, Florida
Authors: Hiers Claude W.
Published: June 2011

The City of Lakeland, Florida, Department of Electric and Water Utilities owns and operates a municipal electric utility system to generate and distribute electric power. The Utility serves over 60,000 customers in a 260 square mile service area. It is one of the first pioneers of burning municipal solid waste (MSW) as a supplemental fuel to generate electric power in the U.S.A.

A 364 MW steam turbine generating unit was designed to fire eastern bituminous coal and a combination of pulverized coal and 10% processed MSW.

This paper describes the solid waste processing facility, the problems encountered during the first year of operation and the economics of burning MSW in a large electric utility boiler.
Remedial Action Assessment for Hazardous Waste Sites Via Numerical Simulation
Authors: Mercer James W. , Faust Charles R. , Cohen Robert M. , Andersen Peter F. , Huyakorn Peter S.
Published: June 2011

A common remedial action at many hazardous waste sites consists of some type of hydraulic control which generally takes the form of one or a combination of the following: (1) drains, (2) wells and (3) permeability barriers such as walls and caps. All of these hydraulic controls have been tested in construction projects where workers need dry conditions. Under these circumstances, time frames are relatively short (a few years or less) and monitoring is very accurate (workers identifying leaks within days). For hazardous waste sites, however, design criteria for hydraulic controls must consider time frames of many years and monitoring systems that include only a few observation points. Because the design criteria for construction projects and remediation are so different, there is no assurance that hydraulic controls will work equally well for both applications. For hazardous waste sites, uncertainty in the effectiveness of hydraulic controls has led to the combined use of modelling and monitoring. This usage of modelling in assessing various remedial actions is demonstrated by presenting simulation results from four hazardous waste sites. Groundwater flow modelling is used to evaluate various combinations of drains, walls and caps at the Lipari site in New Jersey. A variably-saturated flow model is applied to various combinations of a wall, cap and drains considered for the Love Canal site in Niagara Falls, NY. A flow and transport model is applied to a purge well system to recover a chlorinated hydrocarbon spill in New England. Finally, an immiscible flow model is applied to the S-Area site, also in Niagara Falls, to evaluate the remedial action necessary to prevent the downward movement of dense non-aqueous liquid. In all four applications, emphasis is placed on the groundwater system response to the remedial action. The results of such simulations may be used in an iterative fashion to improve both remedial design and monitoring.
Technological Characterization of Sewage Sludge
Authors: Spinosa L.
Published: June 2011

Laboratory tests for the technological characterization of sewage sludge are catalogued and reviewed. Procedures presently being tested and evaluated by IRSA (Water Research Institute, C.N.R., Italy) are also discussed.

Major attention is addressed to the evaluation of sludge dewaterability, since this operation is both expensive and widely utilized in sludge management. In particular, a new procedure for estimating the full-scale filterpress cake concentration and the floc-strength method for evaluating sludge centrifugability are described. Further studies are, however, required for a better correlation with industrial-scale operations.

Other methodologies concern thickening, stabilization, final treatment and disposal: acceptable and simple tests are generally not available and in many cases it is difficult to interpret the data that are generated.

The discussion gives evidence of the laboratory tests now used for sludge characterization being specific to the method of treatment; tests yielding basic information about sludge are thus needed.
Negotiating Unwelcome Police Encounters: The Intergenerational Transmission of Conduct Norms
Authors: Brunson Rod K. , Weitzer Ronald
Published: June 2011

Research on police—citizen relations is largely centered on how police officers treat citizens, with much less attention given to how citizens behave toward officers or how they may counsel others to behave if they are stopped by an officer. Several studies report that citizens’ demeanor affects the way they are treated by police, but researchers have neglected the larger question of whether, and if so how, citizens prepare for their contacts with officers prior to face-to-face encounters. The question is particularly salient for youths living in high-crime, inner-city neighborhoods where they are at high risk of having frequent and unwelcome police interactions. This article examines an important way in which such encounters are structured, by the transmission of a set of conduct norms from one generation to the next.
Feature selection for damage degree classification of planetary gearboxes using support vector machine
Authors: Qu J , Liu Z , Zuo M J , Huang H-Z
Published: June 2011

Feature selection is an effective way of improving classification, reducing feature dimension, and speeding up computation. This work studies a reported support vector machine (SVM) based method of feature selection. Our results reveal discrepancies in both its feature ranking and feature selection schemes. Modifications are thus made on which our SVM-based method of feature selection is proposed. Using the weighting fusion technique and the one-against-all approach, our binary model has been extensively updated for multi-class classification problems. Three benchmark datasets are employed to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method. The multi-class model of the proposed method is also used for feature selection in planetary gear damage degree classification. The results of all datasets exhibit the consistently effective classification made possible by the proposed method.
Workspace analysis of 3SPS+1PS bionic parallel test platform for hip joint simulator
Authors: Cheng G , Yu J-L , Ge S-R , Zhang S
Published: June 2011

In order to evaluate the movement performance of a human hip joint, a novel parallel manipulator called 3SPS+1PS bionic parallel test platform is proposed in this article. SPS denotes the spherical-prismatic-spherical leg, and PS the prismatic-spherical leg where only the prismatic joint is actuated and hence underlined. For the 3SPS+1PS bionic parallel test platform with four degrees of freedom including three rotations and one translation, the formulae for solving the inverse kinematics equations are derived based on the quaternion method. Unit quaternion is used to represent the position and orientation of a moving platform, and singularities caused by Euler angles are avoided. Combining the topological structure characteristics of the parallel manipulator, the orientation workspace of the moving platform at a given translation position is constructed. Moreover, the procedures to solve and evaluate the orientation workspace of the parallel manipulator are obtained. In order to ensure dexterity and obtain more workspace, the condition index is studied by the condition number and singular values analysis of the dimensionally homogeneous Jacobi matrix. The parallel manipulator has three rotations about the Z-axis, the Y-axis, and the X-axis applied to represent three rotation motions (flexion/extension (FE), abduction/adduction (AA), and internal/external (IE) rotation motion) of a human hip joint, respectively. The numerical results illustrate that the 3SPS + 1PS bionic parallel test platform generates ±25° to ±108° in FE, −20° to 20° in AA, and −21° to 21° in IE rotation where the maximum permissible condition numbers of Jacobi matrix are set within the range 15–20 and the parallel manipulator can provide full-scale friction motion for hip joint simulator. In the dexterous orientation workspace, the slide track on the friction counterface of hip joint prostheses can be varied consistently. By verifying the lengths of the SPS-type active legs, the parallel manipulator can provide cross-path multidirectional slide motion for hip joint prostheses. The three-dimensional model and kinematics simulation of the manipulator are established and analysed. The simulation results prove that the 3SPS + 1PS bionic parallel test platform can accurately represent human hip joint motion and provide more reliable experimental data for hip joint prostheses in clinical application. The research builds the theoretical basis for its bionic motion simulation in practical application.
Research on topography control of two-spindle and three-workstation wafer grinder
Authors: Zhu X L , Kang R K , Feng G , Lv H M
Published: June 2011

Silicon wafers are widely used in integrated circuits. This article addresses an important aspect of flat wafer grinding: grinder design. An advanced grinder with two-spindle and three-workstation for ø300 mm silicon wafer based on the principles of in-feed grinding was successfully developed. A mathematical model on topography control was developed for the first time to provide a totally integrated solution for dressing chuck with given topography. The developed model was then applied to predict the chuck topography or to adjust the obliquity adjustment device according to the parameters of ground chuck. Finally, the pilot experiments on two groups of chucks, which demonstrate the correctness of topography control are included.
Assessment by means of gas dynamic modelling of a pre-turbo diesel particulate filter configuration in a turbocharged HSDI diesel engine under full-load transient operation
Authors: Bermúdez V , Serrano J R , Piqueras P , García-Afonso O
Published: June 2011

Diesel particulate filters (DPF) are becoming a standard technology in diesel engines because of the need for compliance with forthcoming regulations regarding soot emissions. When a great degree of maturity in management of filtration and regeneration has been attained, the influence of the DPF placement on the engine performance emerges as a key issue to be properly addressed. The novelty of this work leads to the study of an unusual location of an aftertreatment device in the architecture of the turbocharged diesel engine exhaust line. The problem of the pre-turbo DPF placement is tackled comparing the engine response under full-load transient operation as opposed to the traditional DPF location downstream of the turbine. The study has been performed on the basis of a gas dynamic simulation of the engine, which has been validated with experimental data obtained under steady-state and transient conditions. The DPF response has been simulated with a model able to deal with the characteristic highly pulsating flow upstream of the turbine. Several levels of DPF soot loading have been considered to represent fully the most exigent conditions in terms of performance requirements. As a result, the main physical phenomena controlling the engine and DPF response and interaction have been identified. Placing the DPF upstream of the turbine will lead to a number of important advantages, owing to the continuous regeneration mode at which the DPF will operate, the lower pressure drop in the DPF, and the thermal energy storage in the DPF, which is very useful to mitigate ‘turbocharger lag’ during engine transient operation. These three effects have been evidenced with calculations performed using the validated model and the results have been fully analysed and discussed.
A study of combustion and emission formation characteristics during production engine transients using optical diagnostics
Authors: Lindström M , Westlund A , Ångström H-E
Published: June 2011

In order to identify some of the special combustion and emission formation phenomena that occur in a turbocharged heavy-duty diesel engine during transient operation, the transient strategy of a production engine has been characterized at four different engine speeds. From each transient some points have been selected for further investigation by recreating these load points as steady-state points in a single-cylinder engine. This allows the emissions to be measured with a high degree of accuracy. An endoscope which makes it possible to evaluate flame temperatures was used in both engines. An empirically derived method of calculating nitric oxide (NO) formation from a combination of measured flame temperature, calculated gas temperature, and heat release rate has been developed and applied. This provides an increased understanding of combustion and emission formation phenomena during transient operation. An optical engine was also used to provide a full combustion chamber view for some of the operating points, and a specially developed software was used to calculate temperature distributions based on high-speed camera colour information. The NO formation formula was applied on these images, which resulted in spatially resolved NO formation distributions.
Antimetastatic potential of vernolide-A, a sesquiterpenoid from Vernonia cinerea L.
Authors: Pratheeshkumar P , Kuttan G
Published: June 2011

The inhibitory effect of vernolide-A (C21H28O7) on lung metastasis induced by B16F-10 melanoma cells was studied using C57BL/6 mice. Vernolide-A was administered in three different modalities such as simultaneously with tumor, prophylactic to tumor and after tumor development. Maximum inhibition in the metastasis was observed when vernolide-A was administered simultaneously with tumor. There was 89.39% inhibition of lung tumor nodule formation and 88.51% increase in the life span of metastatic tumor-bearing animals. Highly elevated levels of lung hydroxyproline, lung uronic acid, lung hexosamine, serum sialic acid, serum γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the metastatic control animals were found to be significantly lowered in the vernolide-A-treated animals. Histopathological analysis of lung tissues also correlated with these results. Vernolide-A administration downregulated the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase-1 (ERK-1), ERK-2 and VEGF in the lung tissue of B16F-10 melanoma challenged animals. In the in vitro system, vernolide-A showed a significant inhibition of invasion of B16F-10 melanoma cells across the collagen matrix. Vernolide-A treatment also inhibited the migration of B16F-10 melanoma cells across a polycarbonate filter in vitro. Vernolide-A could inhibit MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein expression in gelatin zymographic analysis of B16F-10 cells. 3 H-thymidine proliferation assay showed that vernolide-A could inhibit the proliferation of B16F-10 melanoma cells in vitro. These results indicate that vernolide-A could inhibit the metastatic progression of B16F-10 melanoma cells in mice.
Brucellosis with very high ferritin levels: report of five cases
Authors: Arica V , Şilfeler İ , Arica S , Tutanç M , Motor VK , İnci M
Published: June 2011

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by a kind of Brucella bacteria, which commonly appears in humans and rarely causes mortality. In our study, five cases, who were diagnosed by evaluation of clinical findings and serological tests, they also had very high ferritin levels, were reported. Ages of the patients were 16, 12, 10, 16 and 8 years, respectively. Serum ferritin levels were 1200, 985, 886, 748 and 435 ng/ml, respectively. We observed that complaints of the patients reduced after the treatment and ferritin levels returned to its normal range. In the situations of extremely evaluated serum ferritin which is an acute-phase reactant, its levels are able to raise in brucellosis, without existing hemochromatosis and Still’s disease
Temporary Overseas Migration of Rural Thai Men: Perception of Changes in Health and Social Interactions after Returning to Their Communities
Authors: Jirojwong Sansnee , Chutangkorn Piyakorn , Leelakraiwan Chintana
Published: June 2011

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the perceived health effects of temporary overseas migration on rural Thai men and to evaluate the effects of financial gain on their social interactions with others. Houses in five villages in Khonkaen, northeastern Thailand were systematically visited and one returned overseas migrant per household was interviewed. One hundred and sixty one men participated in the study. Half of the respondents (50%) were manual workers. While overseas, 32% reported adverse effects of migration on their psychological health. Only 19% reported one or more physically ill while overseas. Their contribution to their communities increased. Inability to improve their financial status from overseas work is likely to have negative effects on the migrants' interaction with friends rather than their wives, families or relatives. The effects of migration on health are unlikely to persist after migrants return to their home communities. Overseas migration provides indirect health benefits through improvement of community facilities. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1): 4-11
Knowledge and Perception of Oral Health Promotion in Schools among Dental Nurses in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Chen Catherine Jean-Ai , Jallaludin Raja Latifah Raja
Published: June 2011

In recent years, the concept of a Health-Promoting School has received much interest. In Malaysia, dental nurses are ideally placed to play a lead role in promoting Oral Health within the school setting. This study aims to provide information on the knowledge, perception and perceived role of Oral Health Promotion in schools, among dental nurses. A postal questionnaire was used to measure dental nurses' knowledge, perception and perceived role of Oral Health Promotion. The majority (60%) of dental nurses had good knowledge of Oral Health Promotion. Generally, they perceived that they play an important role in promoting Oral Health in schools. However, a sizeable proportion (25%) did not think they had a role to play in working together with school authorities to provide children with healthy food choices in school canteens. The majority (60%) of dental nurses did not perceive Oral Health Promotion to be important as a whole. They had a good perception of the concepts: it supports behaviour change, it has appropriate goals, it integrates oral health and general health and relieves anxiety. However, they had a poorer perception of the concepts; diverse educational approaches, participation, focus on prevention, early intervention, "spread of effect" of dental health education and "make healthier choices the easier choices". Years of service was not significantly associated with knowledge and perception of Oral Health Promotion. Dental nurses should be reoriented towards a more holistic practice of Oral Health Promotion. Workshops that invite active participation from dental nurses should be conducted to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):12-16
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Smoking among University Students of Allied Health Sciences in Japan
Authors: Smith Marshall , Umenai Takusei
Published: June 2011

A study was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of cigarette smoking among freshman students of Tokyo Metropolitan University of Health Sciences. Students were categorized as 'ever-smoker' or 'nonsmoker'. 18.3% of the 356 subjects were categorized as `ever-smoker'. The two categories were then compared to determine significant differences in health knowledge, attitudes towards health and smoking, smoking perceptions and preferences, knowledge on the economic impact of tobacco and attitudes towards tobacco control measures. In most cases, significant differences were found between the two groups. However, concerning knowledge on the economic impact of tobacco, the majority of both ever-smokers and non-smokers had poor knowledge. Increased tobacco control education and related efforts are needed as is further research in determining the factors or influences that shape the significant differences found. Such information will be invaluable in formulating appropriate tobacco control measures for the future. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):17-21
Estimation of Salt Intake and Recommendation for lodine Content in Iodized Salt in Mongolia
Authors: Yamada C. , Oyunchimeg D. , Erdenbat A. , Enkhtuya P. , Buttumur D. , Naran G. , Umenais T.
Published: June 2011

In 1996, the Mongolian Government pledged to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders by 2001 using salt iodization as its primary strategy. Iodine content in salt was set at 50 ±10 PPM based on an assumption of 5g of daily salt intake. In 1998, the authors suspected that salt intake was more than 5 g and that pregnant women consumed more salt than non-pregnant women. Over 1,600 adults of both sexes were studied in five provinces. In this study we estimated salt intake based on urinary excretion of sodium and creatinine. A formula was used to calculate salt intake from excreted volumes of sodium and creatinine. Average values for pregnant women, non-pregnant women, and men, were found to be 15.6g (n=499), 12.6 g (n=598), and 14.6 g (n=571), respectively. We concluded that appropriate iodine content in salt should range from 20 to 40 PPM. It is recommended that health education regarding proper levels of salt intake be carried out with the general public, with emphasis on pregnant women. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):27-31
The Content and Efficacy of Environmental Public Health Journal Homepages
Authors: Lindars Elaine S. , Spickett Jeff T.
Published: June 2011

The information on several environmental public health journal homepages has been assessed for its quality and quantity, using selected key criteria. These criteria included the extent of text available, the ability to search the website, the table of contents free via email, and the presence of hyper-links. A high degree of variability is seen, with services and facilities offered ranging from none to the entire journal available for no fee. The journal homepages that are the most comprehensive are those that are associated with major institutions and hence financed by contributions from their members or public money, i.e. the British Medical Association, the World Health Organisation and the US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The journal homepages associated with these institutions offered full text of both current and archived issues as well as additions such as the ability to search other sites, web links, and in some cases hyper-linked references and information on related articles. The provision of text on the Internet should be an essential aim for all journal Homepages, to ensure fast and effective conveyance of information to health professionals. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1): 32-36
A Study on the Effects of Discotheque Noise on the Hearing of Young Patrons
Authors: Tin Lee Lay , Lim Ooi Peng
Published: June 2011

This study aims to find out whether discotheque music affects hearing by exposing 48 young volunteers to discotheque music in discotheque sessions at two discotheques and evaluating their degree of auditory fatigue after exposure.

Questionnaire interviews revealed that the majority of them visit discotheques regularly. A higher proportion of those attending the louder discotheque found the music too loud. The prevalence of tinnitus is also higher in those attending the noisier discotheque. The degree of threshold shifts, however, does not appear to be related to the volume of music or auditory fatigue.

The noise level exposure was estimated to be 91dBA to 98dBA for weekly exposure and 85dBA to 92dBA for monthly exposure. To avoid hearing loss, patrons should avoid loud discotheques, or cut down their frequency of visits if they choose to continue patronising them. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):38-40
Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Infections among Patients Attending Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinics, Regional 2, Thai land
Authors: Luksamijarulkul Pipat , Khemnak Porntip , Pacheun Oranut
Published: June 2011

A cross-sectional study of 400 patients attending sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics at The Venereal Diseases and AIDS Centers, Regional 2, Thailand, was conducted from January to December 1996 in order to investigate the antibody prevalence to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to describe some epidemiological characteristics among HIV and HCV co-infected individuals. The studied patients were interviewed and their blood specimens were collected for determining anti-HIV and anti-HCV antibodies. The results revealed that the prevalence of anti-HIV among studied patients was 25%, while 7.5% were positive for anti-HCV The positivity of both antibodies present in the same individuals was 3.3% (13/400 cases). The highest prevalences of anti-HIV, anti-HCV and both antibodies were found in studied patients aged 20 years or less. Patients with primary education, or lower, had relatively higher prevalence of anti-HIV and/ or anti-HCV than those with higher level education. A relatively higher prevalence was found among commercial sex workers and labourers. Among 13 HIV and HCV co-infected individuals, there were four cases who had histories of sexual contact without condom use, but no history of parenteral contact. The rest (9/13) had histories of both parenteral contact and sexual contact without condom use. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(1):41-45
Current Status of Iodine Deficiency in Mongolia in 1998-1999
Authors: Yamada C. , Oyunchimeg D. , Enkhtuya P. , Erdenbat A. , Buttumur A. , Umenai T.
Published: June 2011

In 1992, the Mongolian government conducted a nationwide palpation study of the thyroid glands, and the study showed an overall goiter rate of 30%. As a result of this, the Mongolian Government launched its Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) Elimination Programme in 1996 and its primary strategy was salt iodization. In 1998 and 1999, we carried out programme monitoring studies in 11 provinces. The results showed: among schoolchildren, a goiter rate was 22.8% (n=6,535), median values of urinary iodine excretion ranged from 11 μg/l to 256 μg/l (n=1,930), and usage rates of iodized salt (>20 PPM iodine content) in their households ranged from 3% to 82%. We concluded that severe iodine deficiency in 1992 was improved from moderate to mild severity a few years later by salt iodization. However, stronger official commitments and community participation are needed to improve the programme so that iodized salt will be made more widely available. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2000;12(2): 79-84
Evaluation of a Philippine Community Based Rehabilitation Programme
Authors: Lopez Juan M. , Lewis Janice A. , Boldy Duncan P.
Published: June 2011

In 1991, the Philippine Department of Health implemented a Philippine Model of the World Health Organisation's Community Based Rehabilitation Programme initiative in pilot areas.

The objective of this study was to explore whether, after seven years of operation, the Programme had actually been implemented as planned. The study was conducted in one pilot area in Rosario, La Union, a rural district of Luzon. The research used audit methodology to compare planned services with actual services. The main audit techniques used were record review, in-depth personal interview and focus group discussions.

The study showed that such a programme, if properly organised and managed, can meet the needs of the people with disabilities who need rehabilitation. The Community Based Rehabilitation Programme represents a simple cost-effective approach for the delivery of disability prevention and rehabilitation services, particularly in rural areas that have little access to such services. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(2): 85-89
Determinants of Breastfeeding Duration in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Awang Halimah , Salleh Abdul Latif Haji
Published: June 2011

The health benefits of breastfeeding to infants and mothers have been well recognised. This study applies linear regression analysis to assess the determinants of breastfeeding duration of first born using data from the Second Malaysian Family Life Survey. The proportion of women who breastfed their first child is 82 percent, of which 97 percent reported their breastfeeding duration. The distribution of breastfeeding duration has a mean of 5.7 months and a median of two months. Important determinants of breastfeeding duration include maternal age, ethnicity, period of first birth, husband's occupation and work status of the woman. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2000;12(2): 102-106
The Quality of Life Outcome Following Treatment for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Authors: Quek K.F. , Low W.Y. , Razack A.H. , Loh C.S. , Chua C.B.
Published: June 2011

This study aims to assess the impact of medical and surgical treatment on treating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) on pain, prostatic symptoms, disease-specific quality of life and health-related quality of life. Patients scheduled for medical (alpha-blockers) and surgical treatment (transurethral resection of the prostate, TURP) were recruited in the study. The patients were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Present Pain Intensity (PPI), International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) at 3-month, 6-month and 12-month (baseline). Before treatment, most of the patients with LUTS had severe pain, LUTS and deterioration of health-related quality of life. Following treatment, both medical and surgical treatment improved their pain, LUTS and health-related quality of life. Both treatments are effective in relieving the symptoms of pain, LUTS and health-related quality of life. Asia Pac J Public Health 2000;12(2): 107- 117
Influence of Women's Knowledge on Maternal Health Care Utilization in Southern Laos
Authors: Phoxay Chandavone , Okumura Junko , Nakamura Yasuhide , Wakai Susumu
Published: June 2011

This study aims to clarify women's knowledge on obstetric care and to analyse the situation of maternal health care (MHC) utilization in southern Laos. Face to face structured questionnaire and focus group discussions were carried out for 205 mothers aged 29.6 ± 6.7 who had children under the age of five. Three measurements of MHC utilization comprised: 1) antenatal care (ANC), 2) tetanus toxoid (TT) inoculation, and 3) attendance delivery by health professional. Women's knowledge on obstetric care was scored. Women's knowledge was positively correlated with ANC and TT inoculation. It was found that the women with strong superstitious belief were less likely to utilize all three types of MHC than the others. Accessibility to health care facilities strongly affected ANC and attendance delivery. Enhancing women's knowledge on obstetric care and reducing barriers related with sociocultural beliefs are essential to improving maternal health in southern Laos. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001;13(1):13-19
Sero-epidemiology and Risk Factors of Positive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen amongst Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Lee Albert , Cheng Frances F.K. , Chan Cynthia S.Y. , Lau Louisa C.H. , Lo Amelia S.C.
Published: June 2011

This paper reports the prevalence rate of hepatitis B antigen (HBsAg) amongst the Hong Kong Chinese adolescents (age 11 to 19), and the risk factors associated with HBsAg positive. The study is cross sectional and 1,580 students were randomly selected from 12 secondary schools in four regions of Hong Kong. For those subjects who agreed to participate and were randomly selected, their blood was tested for HBsAg and anti-HBs.

The overall prevalence of HBsAg positive was reported to be 5.8% (7.9% in male and 4.1% in female), lower than 8.1% in 1978. Males, those born in Mainland China and family history of carriers had higher prevalence of HBsAg positive (7.9% vs 4.1%, 12.2% vs 4.7%, 52.9% vs 3.8% respectively) with statistical significance. Males and those born in mainland China were found to have significantly higher odds ratio 1.8 (95% CI. 0.98-3.52) and 4.4 (95% CI. 2.2-8.8) respectively of HBsAg positive by multivariate analysis.

Findings suggest that family history of carriers and those born in endemic area are at a higher risk. Therefore it is worthwhile to consider vaccination programme for adolescents to reduce the carrier rate, and to also reduce the infection amongst the adults by horizontal transmission. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001;13(1): 30-35
Measurement of Thyroid Volume in Children Using a Portable Ultrasound Machine: a Technical Note
Authors: Mahmud Nafikudin
Published: June 2011

The data on thyroid volume measurements that determines prevalence of goitre in children is very important for public health consideration as the presence of goitre in children effectively reflects the status of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) in the general population. Ultrasound is an excellent modality to evaluate thyroid size. Local experience in using a portable ultrasound machine to measure thyroid volume is presented. The thyroid anatomy and techniques of ultrasound assessment are highlighted. Proper training of public health doctors to perform thyroid gland ultrasonography is crucial to ensure that the thyroid volume data collected would be more accurate and reliable for the planning of health programmes to eliminate IDD in the particular areas. Asia Pac J Publk Health 2001;13(1): 36-39
Oral Health Condition and Endemic Goitre, in an Iodine-deficient Area in Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Saito Toshiyuki , Miyazaki Hideo , Bahar Armasastra , Rahardjo Anton , Djoharnas Herwati , Katoh Yasuhiro , Kusukawa Yoshiko , Takehara Tadamichi , Koga Toshihiko
Published: June 2011

Iodine deficiency is a major determinant of endemic goiter which affects bone growth. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between iodine deficiency and oral health. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 181 inhabitants aged 17 to 40 years in two villages in an iodine-deficient area in Bali, Indonesia. Thyroid swelling, serum level of thyroid-stimulating hormone, DMFT index, plaque index, gingival index, dietary habits and socioeconomic status were examined. Thirty two subjects (21%) had thyroid swelling considered to be endemic goiter, with the highest prevalence in females aged 21 to 30 years (40-41%). The DMFT, food habits, and socioeconomic status were different between both villages. Multiple regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, and location (village) did not detect any association between DMFT and serum thyroid-stimulating hormone level or thyroid swelling. Further studies will be required to confirm these findings. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001;13(1):45-48
The Fetal Origins of Disease Hypothesis: Public Health Implications for the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Binns Colin W. , Lee MiKyung , Scott Jane A.
Published: June 2011

There has been rapid development in the Asia-Pacific region, leading to improvements in the food supply and nutrition. The high prevalence of low birth weight has been a problem in many countries and continues to be a problem in some parts of the region. In the past few years an epidemic of obesity and chronic disease has emerged. The fetal origins hypothesis links the high prevalence of low birth weight and recent increasing obesity to explain the emerging epidemic of chronic disease. One public health strategy to challenge this epidemic is the promotion of breastfeeding of all infants. Breastfeeding has been shown to protect against childhood obesity, and is "dose related", that is, the longer an infant is breastfed, the lower the risk of obesity. Asia Pac JPublic Health 2001; 13(2): 68-73
Utilization of Public and Private Dental Services in Sibu, Sarawak: a Sociodemographic Appraisal and Types of Treatment Received
Authors: Chu G.T. , Raja Latifah R.J.
Published: June 2011

This study investigated the sociodemographic profiles of patients attending public and private dental clinics and the types of treatment received. Patients (n=454) were interviewed using a structured questionnaire at two public and four private clinics in Sibu District, Sarawak. Generally, Chinese (74.7 %), females (60.0%) and urban dwellers (83.7 %) were more likely to visit the dentist. Both clinics had more females and more Chinese but private clinics had a lower percentage of female attendees (53.1 % versus 67.0 %) but a higher percentage of Chinese (85.0 % versus 64.5 %). Private attendees were younger (mean age of 31.0 years compared to 41.0 years) and from higher income households (median value of MR 2,000 versus MR 900) than public attendees. Treatments were mostly curative and a third of the visits were associated with painful conditions. Age ( p=0.006), gender ( p=0.003), ethnicity ( p<0.001) and household income ( p<0.001) were associated with the type of clinic visited. Choice of clinic was not related to having painful conditions ( p=0.970). To ensure a more affordable and equitable distribution of oral healthcare, health planners need to identify disparities in the utilization of services and differences between public and private attendees. Asia Pac J Public Health 2001 ; 13(2): 79-84