bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic, semi-automatic and manual validation of urban drainage data
Authors: Branisavljević N. , Prodanović D. , Pavlović D.
Published: September 2010

Advances in sensor technology and the possibility of automated long distance data transmission have made continuous measurements the preferable way of monitoring urban drainage processes. Usually, the collected data have to be processed by an expert in order to detect and mark the wrong data, remove them and replace them with interpolated data. In general, the first step in detecting the wrong, anomaly data is called the data quality assessment or data validation. Data validation consists of three parts: data preparation, validation scores generation and scores interpretation. This paper will present the overall framework for the data quality improvement system, suitable for automatic, semi-automatic or manual operation. The first two steps of the validation process are explained in more detail, using several validation methods on the same set of real-case data from the Belgrade sewer system. The final part of the validation process, which is the scores interpretation, needs to be further investigated on the developed system.
Oxidation of nitrobenzene by ozone in the presence of faujasite zeolite in a continuous flow gas–liquid–solid reactor
Authors: Reungoat J. , Pic J. S. , Manéro M. H. , Debellefontaine H.
Published: September 2010

This work investigates the oxidation of nitrobenzene (NB) by ozone in the presence of faujasite zeolite. Experiments were carried out in a gas–liquid–solid reactor were ozone transfer and NB oxidation took place at the same time. Three configurations of the reactor were compared: empty, filled with inert glass beads and filled with faujasite pellets. First, ozone transfer coefficient (kLa) and decomposition rate constant (kC) were determined for each configuration. In presence of solid, kLa was 2.0 to 2.6 times higher and kC was 5.0 to 6.4 times higher compared to the empty reactor. Then, the various configurations were evaluated in terms of NB removal and chemical oxygen demand (COD) decrease. The faujasite reactor showed higher removal of NB and decrease of COD compared to other configurations under the same conditions suggesting that the faujasite increases the oxidation rate of NB. Oxidation of NB in presence of faujasite also proved to be limited by the transfer of ozone from the gas to the liquid phase.
A comparative study of the pollution status of Sakumo II and Muni Lagoons in Ghana
Authors: Tay Collins , Asmah Ruby , Biney Charles A.
Published: September 2010

The pollution status of Sakumo II and Muni Lagoons and Mamahuma and Gbagbla Ankonu feeder streams, which feed Sakumo II along the coast of Ghana, were assessed and compared. As expected of saline waters, pH values of both lagoons fell within a slightly neutral to saline range whilst, the feeder streams were moderately saline. Conductivity distribution also showed saline (>5.0 mS cm−1) characteristics of the lagoons, while, the feeder streams are brackish (1.5–5.0 mS cm−1). DO concentrations in both lagoons indicated a wide variation. Relatively high BOD and nutrients content of Sakumo II and the feeder streams suggested that, Sakumo II and its feeder streams are moderately to grossly polluted. However, Muni Lagoon was characterized by relatively low BOD and nutrients content suggesting relatively low anthropogenic impact. The ionic dominance patterns for Sakumo II and Muni Lagoons were: Na+ > Mg2 +  > Ca2 +  and Cl− > HCO3− > SO42−, Na+ > Ca2 +  > Mg2 +  and Cl− > HCO3− > SO42−, respectively. Using water quality index (WQI), Sakumo II was found to be grossly polluted and requires mitigation measures, while, Muni Lagoon was of fairly good quality and requires monitoring.
Adsorption of anionic dyes in aqueous solution using chemically modified barley straw
Authors: Ibrahim Shariff , Fatimah Is , Ang Ha-Ming , Wang Shaobin
Published: September 2010

An agricultural waste derived adsorbent was prepared by chemically modified barley straw with NaOH and a cationic surfactant hexadecylpyridinium chloride monohydrate (CPC). The prepared adsorbent, BMBS, was used for removal of anionic dyes; Acid Blue (AB40) and Reactive Blue 4 (RB4) from aqueous solution in a batch adsorption system. The adsorbent was characterized by FT-IR and elemental composition. The stability of CPC adsorbed on straw surface was also evaluated by exposing to aqueous solution. In adsorption tests, influence of operation parameters such as contact time, initial concentration and pH of solution on AB40 and RB4 uptake were investigated and discussed. The CPC was observed strongly attached to straw surface and removal percentage of AB40 and RB4 was increased with increasing in contact time. The adsorption of dyes on modified straw surface was favorable at high acidic condition and desorption was found relatively low upon exposing to the desorption agent (i.e water). Dynamic experiment revealed that the kinetic data fitted well to the pseudo-second-order model for both of the dyes. The isotherm study also indicated that RB4 and AB40 adsorption suited well with the Langmuir model, The maximum adsorption capacity determined from the Langmuir isotherm at 25°C was 51.95 mg g−1 and 31.5 for AB40 and RB4, respectively.
Urban evaporation rates for water-permeable pavements
Authors: Starke P. , Göbel P. , Coldewey W. G.
Published: September 2010

In urban areas the natural water balance is disturbed. Infiltration and evaporation are reduced, resulting in a high surface runoff and a typical city climate, which can lead to floods and damages. Water-permeable pavements have a high infiltration rate that reduces surface runoff by increasing the groundwater recharge. The high water retention capacity of the street body of up to 51 l/m2 and its connection via pores to the surface lead to higher evaporation rates than impermeable surfaces. A comparison of these two kinds of pavements shows a 16% increase in evaporation levels of water-permeable pavements. Furthermore, the evaporation from impermeable pavements is linked directly to rain events due to fast-drying surfaces. Water-permeable pavements show a more evenly distributed evaporation after a rain event. Cooling effects by evaporative heat loss can improve the city climate even several days after rain events. On a large scale use, uncomfortable weather like sultriness or dry heat can be prevented and the urban water balance can be attenuated towards the natural.
Membrane filtration of municipal wastewater effluents for implementing agricultural reuse in southern Italy
Authors: Lopez A. , Pollice A. , Laera G. , Lonigro A. , Rubino P.
Published: September 2010

Membrane filtration was investigated at field scale in order to assess its effectiveness for reusing municipal effluents in agriculture. The study was started on April 2002 and ended on September 2007, as part of a national R&D project (AQUATEC). Preliminary results, which we already reported elsewhere, concerned the first two project years while this paper refers to the subsequent period. Three different crops (processing tomato, fennel and lettuce) were grown in rotation at a test field located in Apulia (Southern Italy) and irrigated with membrane filtered municipal secondary effluents. The quality of the reclaimed water was monitored chemically and microbiologically, and compared with conventional water pumped from a local well. Both water sources were used in parallel for irrigating two plots of the test field. The results showed that the microbiological quality of the treated wastewater was comparable to or even higher than that of the conventional source. Protozoan (oo)cysts were experimentally identified as effective indicators of possible failures of the filtration system. Moreover, long term heavy metals accumulation trends were monitored in soil and crops, showing that despite some lead and copper accumulation in the soil, no measurable increase of these metals was observed in the edible parts of the crops.
Diffusion models for adsorption kinetics of Zn2+ , Cd2+  and Pb2+  onto natural zeolite
Authors: Taparcevska Julija , Markovska Liljana , Koumanova Bogdana , Meshko Vera
Published: September 2010

The kinetics of zinc, cadmium, and lead ions removal by natural zeolite-clinoptilolite has been investigated using an agitated batch adsorber. Batch experiments at constant temperature have been performed. The influence of agitation speed, initial heavy metals concentration and particle size of the sorbent on the removal efficiency of heavy metals from liquid phase have been studied. A decrease in the initial heavy metals concentration in aqueous solutions prolongs the time needed for equilibrium. Two kinetics models according to the Vermeulen's approximation and the parabolic diffusion model have been tested with the experimental data for adsorption of heavy metals onto natural zeolite. For the systems examined, the fit of the proposed models with the experimental data was shown to be equally good using both models. The diffusion coefficients are calculated from kinetic models of heavy metal ions and they are of the order from 10−5 to 10−6 cm2/min. The diffusion coefficients depend on initial concentration for both models.
Haemostasis in Open Carpal Tunnel Release: Tourniquet vs Local Anaesthetic and Adrenaline
Authors: Ralte Peter , Selvan David , Morapudi Syam , Kumar Gunasekaran , Waseem Mohammad
Published: September 2010

Open carpal tunnel release is one of the commonest performed procedures in hand surgery. We performed a
prospective randomised control trial to compare the efficacy and patient satisfaction of the traditional arm tourniquet
versus infiltration of adrenaline and local anaesthetic solution to achieve haemostasis during the procedure. Using a
combination of objective and subjective measures we concluded that infiltration of local anaesthetic and adrenaline not
only provided adequate haemostasis but also provided a significantly more tolerable experience for the patient during the
procedure.
Inflorescence and leaves essential oil composition of hydroponically grown Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Hassanpouraghdam M.B. , Gohari G.R. , Tabatabaei S.J. , Dadpour M.R.
Published: September 2010

In order to characterize the essential oils of leaves and inflorescences,
water distilled volatile oils of hydroponically grown Ocimum basilicum L.
were analyzed by GC/EI-MS. Fifty components were identified in the
inflorescence and leaf essential oils of the basil plants, accounting for
98.8 % and 99.9 % of the total quantified components respectively.
Phenylpropanoids (37.7 % for the inflorescence vs. 58.3 % for the leaves)
were the predominant class of oil constituents, followed by sesquiterpenes
(33.3 % vs. 19.4 %) and monoterpenes (27.7 % vs. 22.1 %). Of the
monoterpenoid compounds, oxygenated monoterpenes (25.2 % vs. 18.9 %) were the
main subclass. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (25 % vs. 15.9 %) possessed the
main subclass of sesquiterpenoidal compounds as well. Methyl chavicol, a
phenylpropane derivative, (37.2 % vs. 56.7 %) was the principle component of
both organ oils, with up to 38 % and 57 % of the total identified components
of the inflorescence and leaf essential oils, respectively. Linalool (21.1 %
vs. 13.1 %) was the second common major component followed by ?-cadinol (6.1
% vs. 3 %), germacrene D (6.1 % vs. 2.7 %) and 1,8-cineole (2.4 % vs. 3.5 %).
There were significant quantitative but very small qualitative differences
between the two oils. In total, considering the previous reports, it seems
that essential oil composition of hydroponically grown O. basilicum L. had
volatile constituents comparable with field grown counterparts, probably with
potential applicability in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
ESBL- A therapeutic challenge
Authors: Islam KM Shahidul
Published: September 2010

Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 1-3
Use of Mycobacterial Culture for the Diagnosis of Smear Negative TB Cases Among New Outpatients at NIDCH, Dhaka
Authors: Kamal SM Mostofa , Mahmud Asif Mujtaba , Ahsan Chowdhury Rafiqul , Islam Md Rafiqul , Sarwar Golam , Rahman Md Mostafizur , Barua Provat Chandra
Published: September 2010

In this prospective study out of 300 randomly selected clinically and/or radiologically suspected TB patients ultimately data of 277 cases were analyzed. Among 23 excluded cases, 6 were positive by microscopy, 5 responded with broad spectrum antibiotics, and 12 were contaminated. After 2 months follow up with anti TB drugs, a total of 124 TB cases were diagnosed of which 121 (44%)were culture positive. Three cases were diagnosed by empirical anti TB treatment. A total of 153 cases were true negative by mycobacterial culture. Of 121 isolates 119 were typical and 2 were atypical mycobacteria. In this group, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of mycobacterial culture were 97.63%, 100%, 100% and 98.1% respectively. Among the culture proven cases; 79% were prevalent in male and 21% in female. Case positivity was significantly higher among patient having symptoms of cough with hemophtysis with or without fever(58%) than the patients with constitutional symptoms. No advanced or cavitary lesions were seen on X-ray among culture proven cases. Majority culture proven cases(72%) had minimal lesion on X-ray. After two months anti TB therapy 119 culture proven cases and three culture negative cases improved clinically and radiologically.Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 23-26
Seroprevalance of anti-HCV among voluntary blood donors
Authors: Habibullah Munshi M , Khatun Hazera , Khatun Ayesha , Rabbi Fareha Jesmin
Published: September 2010

The present study reports the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among 70,200 voluntary blood donors. Out of them, 364 (0.52%) donors were anti-HCV positive of which 308(0.44%) were male and 56(0.08%) were female. As the donors were categorized by profession, highest number of voluntary donors were students (58%) followed by Business man (21%), Service holder (19 %) and house wife (2%). Most of the donors (43%) were in the age group of 18-25yrs. Among the professional groups of voluntary blood donors, percentage of anti HCV positive cases was highest in businessmen group (1.09%) followed by housewife (0.98%), service holders (0.73%) and students (0.22%).Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 1-3
Prospects of Vaccine in Leishmaniasis
Authors: Salam Md Abdus
Published: September 2010

The clinical manifestations of leishmaniasis depend on the interaction between the genetics of the parasite and the genetics of the host. However, in human infections, the host population is heterogeneous and the parasites are not clonal, and this makes it difficult to dissect out the relative contributions of the parasite and the host. The current data indicate that susceptibility to leishmaniasis is controlled by many genes, including TNF (tumor necrosis factor), MHC (major histocompatibility complex), NRAMP1 (natural resistance associated macrophage protein 1) and others of unknown function. Susceptibility, resistance, and disease patterns probably depend on complex interactions between these genes. However, despite the wealth of information regarding the genetics of the parasite and the experimental immunology of the disease, there is currently no licensed vaccine against Leishmania and control measures rely on chemotherapy to alleviate disease and on vector control to reduce transmission. A major vaccine development program aimed initially at cutaneous leishmaniasis is under way. Studies in animal models and humans have been evaluating the potential of genetically modified live attenuated vaccines, as well as a variety of recombinant antigens or the DNA encoding them. The availability, in the near future, of the DNA sequences of the entire human and Leishmania genomes will extend the vaccine program by mapping the host susceptibility genes to allow the vaccine to be targeted to the population most in need of protection. This review has focused on the factors elucidated for host and parasite governing disease outcome and also several of the Leishmania vaccination strategies employed to date.Bangladesh J Med Microbiol 2010; 03 (02): 40-46
Preparation and Characterization of Polyvinyl Acetate (Kollidon® SR) Microspheres Containing Diclofenac Sodium I: Effect of Stirring Rate and Total Solid Content
Authors: Islam Md Saiful , Alam Sayed Md Reazul , Sadat Sams Mohammad Anowar , Chowdhury Jakir Ahmed , Jalil Reza-ul
Published: September 2010

Microspheres were prepared by W/O emulsification solvent evaporation technique where Diclofenac Sodium (DS) and Kollidon® SR (KSR) were used as model drug and polymer respectively. Light liquid paraffin (LLP) was used as oil phase and 1% (w/w of the continuum) of span 60 was used for emulsification. Microspheres were prepared using different stirring rate (1500, 2000, 2500, 3000 rpm) and different total solid content of the system (0.08%, 0.16%, 0.24% w/w of the continuum). Microsphere morphology was examined with the help of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and particle size distribution was analyzed by Mastersizer 2000. Larger microspheres were obtained with decreasing stirring rate. Increase in solid content of the system also increased microsphere size. Drug loading was also found to be affected due to these preparative variables. In vitro dissolution study was performed in a USP XXX paddle apparatus (type 2). Dissolution media was buffer of pH 7.2, paddle speed was 50 rpm and dissolution temperature was maintained at 37 ± 0.5°C. Release of DS from KSR microspheres was found to follow higuchi mechanism. DS release was increased with increased stirring rate. But increased solid content of the system resulted in reduced release of DS. Normalized release rate of DS was also found to be affected by these preparative variables. Release rates were found increased with increased stirring rate whereas rates were found decreased with increased solid content of the system. Key words: Kollidon® SR; Diclofenac Sodium; Microsphere; Solvent evaporation technique. 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6024 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 111-116, 2009 (December)
Synthesis and Biological Activities of 2-Substituted Benzimidazole-Metal Complexes
Authors: Azam Md Afzal , Kumar BRP , Mazumdar R , Suresh B
Published: September 2010

A series of copper(II) and cobalt(II) coordination compounds with 2-substituted benzimidazole derived monodentate and bidentate ligands have been prepared and characterized by microanalysis, IR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Synthesized metal complexes have been screened for their in vitro antioxidant and antitumor activity. The complex 4a showed significant nitric oxide free radical scavenging activity (IC50 65μg/ml), while 3i and 3g showed potent superoxide dismutase activity with IC50 of 0.26 and 0.28 μM respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity study with human breast MCF-7 and CNS SF 268 cancer cell lines showed that the most active 2-benzyl-1H-benzimidazole Cu(II) complex 3a inhibited the growth of cancer cells at 20 μM concentration. Keywords: Cu(II) complexes; Co(II) complexes; Benzimidazoles; Antitumor activity. DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6027 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 131-140, 2009 (December)
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Citrus Hystrix DC. Fruits
Authors: Chowdhury Akhtaruzzaman , Alam Md Ashraful , Rahman Mohammad S , Hossain Md Aslam , Rashid Mohammad A
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/dujps.v8i2.6035 Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 8(2): 177-180, 2009 (December)
Asymptomatic catheter related Rhizobium radiobacter infection in a haploidentical hemapoetic stem cell recipient
Authors: Erol Çipe Funda , Doğu Figen , Sucuoğlu Deniz , Aysev Derya , İkincioğulları Aydan
Published: September 2010

Catheter related infections are reported as one of the most common source of nosocomial infections. Rhizobium radibacter infections are generally manifested by fever and leukocytosis. Here, a 14 months-old girl diagnosed as T (-) B (-) NK (+) severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is presented. She had received repeated (x3) unconditioned haploidentical hematopoetic stem cell transplantations. During the follow-up, she has been arised an asymptomatic infection with R. Radiobacter, which was isolated from central venous catheter and peripheral blood while she was clinically stable, free of symptoms, fever or leukocytosis. She was treated successfully with cefepime and amikacin and did not require catheter removal. So, it is once more clear that the blood cultures should be obtained on regular basis from all patients with an intravascular device, even they were asymptomatic.
Nosocomial blood-stream infections from extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia from GB Pant Hospital, New Delhi
Authors: Taneja Juhi , Mishra Bibhabati , Thakur Archana , Dogra Vinita , Loomba Poonam
Published: September 2010

Background: Nosocomial septicemia due to extended spectrum beta-(β)-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli are a therapeutic challenge due to resistance. Knowledge of disease burden and resistance patterns is required for proper and timely management. We report the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of ESBL producing E. coli and K .pneumoniae from septicemia at a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: A total of 2,870 blood samples of suspected cases of septicemia were studied between January and December 2009. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by Kirby Bauer's disc diffusion method and MICs for imipenem, meropenem, and ertapenem were determined using the E-test. All isolates of E. coli and K. pneumoniae were tested for ESBL production by E-test method. Results: Forty-one (70.7%) K. pneumoniae isolates and ten (41.7%)  E. coli isolates were ESBL producers. Two (5%) of ESBL producing K. pneumoniae isolates, but no E. coli isolates, were resistant to carbapenems. In vitro, all ESBL producers were sensitive to tigecycline. Conclusion: Our data indicated that the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumonia strains isolated from blood cultures from hospitalized patients is high. ESBL-producing organisms were found to be more susceptible to meropenem than to imipenem and ertapenem. Tigecycline is active against all the ESBL or multidrug resistant (MDR) E. coli and Klebsiella spp. isolates.
Plasmid profile and drug resistance pattern of zoonotic Salmonella isolates from Indian buffaloes
Authors: Singh Bhoj Raj , Agarwal Meenu , Chandra Mudit , Verma Meena , Sharma Gautam , Verma Jagdish Chandra , Singh Vijay Pratap
Published: September 2010

Background: Buffalo is the major source of animal protein in south-east Asia, including India; therefore, the presence of multiple drug resistance in Salmonella strains of buffalo meat and milk products is of immense public health concern. Methodology: Forty-six strains of Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica  belonging to eight serovars (S. Anatum, 13; S. Weltevreden, 13; S. Rostock, 6; S. Typhimurium, 5; S. Gallinarum, 5; S. Stockholm, 1; S. Dublin, 1; and S. Orion, 2), isolated from buffalo meat and diseased buffaloes were studied for their antibiotic sensitivity and plasmid profile. Results: All except six strains of Salmonella had one or more plasmids. Virulence plasmid of ~35MdA was present in 39 isolates while 19 strains had one to six additional plasmids with molecular weight ranging from 1 Mda > 35 Mda. A plasmid-free S. Anatum strain was resistant to seven drugs including fluoroquinolones, while strains having six to seven plasmids were resistant to fewer antimicrobial drugs. One S. Anatum isolate, resistant to 11 antibiotics, had only one plasmid. Eight serovars of Salmonella could be divided into 28 resistotypes on the basis of antimicrobial sensitivity assay. Most strains were resistant to streptomycin (84.8%) followed by kanamycin (58.7%), gentamicin (52.2%), ampicillin (50%) and oxytetracycline (50%). Few strains were resistant to cefotaxime (2.2%), amoxycillin (2.2%) and newer fluoroquinolones (6.5%). Conclusion: Multiple drug resistance was common among Salmonella isolates of buffalo origin, particularly against aminoglycosides, oxytetracycin, ampicillin and cephalexin. Presence of plasmids is not mandatory for occurrence of multiple drug resistance in S. enterica strains.
Condom use among antiretroviral therapy patients in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Akinyemi Joshua O. , Awolude Olutosin A. , Adewole Isaac F. , Kanki Phyllis J.
Published: September 2010

Background: While antiretroviral treatment (ART) has improved the health status of people living with HIV, new challenges to their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs and their ability to prevent secondary HIV infections have risen. This study aimed to determine the level and factors that affect condom use among ART-experienced patients at the premier teaching hospital in Nigeria. Methodology: This longitudinal study involved patients who initiated treatment at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria, between January and December 2006.  Sexually active patients who had received treatment for at least six months and had not defaulted on clinic follow-up schedules were studied. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and condom use were extracted from clinic records. Chi square test and logistic regression were employed to determine factors associated with condom use. Results: The study involved 866 patients, specifically, 306 (35.3%) men and 560 (64.7%) women aged 40.7 (SD 7.6) and 33.3 (SD 6.5) years respectively. Condoms usage before treatment and at last clinic visits was 14.0% and 43.3% respectively.  Overall reports of condom use at specified periods were as follows: 1 - 6 months (33.0%); 7 - 12 months (37.3%) and above 12 months (53.8%).  Patients in a marital union and those with higher education were more likely to use condoms. Conclusions: Condom use is significantly influenced by marital status and educational level. Although condom use increases together with follow-up time, the level can be improved. Primary and secondary prevention efforts targeting high-risk sexual behaviour among ART patients need to receive greater and continual attention.
Helminthic infections mimicking malignancy: a review of published case reports
Authors: Pilsczek Florian H.
Published: September 2010

Background: Infectious diseases, including infections with helminths, can initially present similarly to malignancies. The goal of the article is to review reports of helminthic infections that are initially diagnosed as malignancy. Methodology: The database PubMed was searched for English language references published as of July 2009. Results: The following published case reports and case series, mainly from Asia and Africa, were identified: Nematodes: 8 publications (1 patient with Angiostrongylus cantonensis, 2 Stronglyloides stercoralis, 1 Toxocara species, 1 Dioctophyma renale, 1 Ascaris species, 1 Gnathostoma spinigerum, 1 Dirofilaria repens); Trematodes: 7 publications (46 patients with Schistosoma species, 2 Fasciola hepatica, 1 Paragonimus westermani); Cestodes: 6 publications (10 patients with Echinococcus species, 1 Sparganum mansoni). Conclusion: To avoid unnecessary investigations and treatment, physicians should be aware when diagnosing patients from Asia or Africa that a large number of helminthic infections can present similar to malignancies.
Influenza preparedness in low-resource settings: a look at oxygen delivery in 12 African countries
Authors: Belle Janeil M , Cohen Hillary J , Shindo Nahoko , Lim Matthew L , Velazquez-Berumen Adriana , Ndihokubwayo Jean-Bosco , Cherian Meena N
Published: September 2010

Background: Pandemic influenza poses a serious threat to populations in low and lower-middle income countries that face delays in access to health care and inadequately equipped facilities. Oxygen is first-line therapy for influenza-related hypoxia and a standard component of emergency respiratory resuscitation, yet remains a scarce resource in many countries. Methodology: A snapshot survey of oxygen supply and associated infrastructure was performed at 231 health centres and hospitals in twelve African countries using the World Health Organization (WHO) Tool for Situational Analysis to Assess Emergency and Essential Surgical Care. WHO Global Initiative for Emergency and Essential Surgical Care, WHO regional and country offices, and local Ministries of Health facilitated data collection from facilities surveyed. Data was stored in the WHO DataCol SQL database and computerized spreadsheet tools were used to generate descriptive statistics.  Results: Ninety-nine (43.8%) of facilities surveyed reported uninterrupted access to an oxygen source and 55 (24.6%) possessed a fully functioning oxygen concentrator.  Electricity was fully available at only 81 (35.1%) health facilities. Conclusions:  In addition to efforts to secure vaccines and antivirals, future global influenza preparedness efforts should include investments in oxygen and associated equipment and infrastructure at first referral health facilities, to minimize morbidity and mortality from influenza in regions with limited medical resources.  Increasing oxygen delivery capacity in these areas may also provide long-term, post-pandemic benefits in the management of other medical conditions of significance, including trauma, neonatal pulmonary hypofunction, and HIV-related and childhood pneumonia.
A Hybrid Course for Probability and Statistics for Engineers: An E-Readiness Study at Shahid Beheshti University
Authors: Payandeh Amir T , Omidi Maryam
Published: September 2010

Probability and Statistics for Engineers covers verities of subjects in the set theory, the combinatory analysis, probability, statistics, and (in some universities) the stochastic processes. Since, course receives only 3 credits it has to be thought 3 hours/week. This overloading content along with time limitation make course as a challenging and difficult one for students. Also, many instructors, including the first author, found the course very challenging to teach. Two popular on-site and e-learning training systems do not provide any appropriate solution. This article suggests a hybrid training system, which combines some elements of both training systems to reduce the disadvantages of both systems. Readiness of such hybrid course is measured by preparedness of students for online activities. The readiness study at Shahid Beheshti University shows that Internet skills, self-directed learning, learner attitude toward e-learning, e-mail skills, and software ability of students are factors which are significantly affect readiness of students.
Using Hypermedia in Teaching Art & Design: Baroque Dutch Paintings
Authors: Alkholy Inas A.
Published: September 2010

Although the whole world adapts ICT -information and communication technologies- in learning and teaching visual arts for the benefit of both the student and the society, the Middle East is motionless. ME teachers need training, institutional support and motivation to apply ICT in classrooms. Preparing a traditional lecture, including visual projected examples by data show takes less time. Doing comparisons and contrast, going through formal analysis or juggling between visual examples is complex within classrooms' technological limitations of having one projector. There is an urgent need to alter traditional methods of teaching art and design and integrate pictorial approaches.

This paper discusses design/art pedagogy via a suggested model lesson, which utilizes hypermedia to resemble internet interface. The lesson teaches Dutch Baroque interior design through a selection of Vermeer's paintings. Vermeer accurately painted interior elements in his paintings.

The development of technology stimulates studentsâ?? imagination and develops their understanding of more influencing graphical forms. Any other art and design themes and styles can be taught by using the same interface.
Laboratory Design Concepts for Effective Utilization of Resources and Obtaining Greater Efficacy
Authors: Srinath A
Published: September 2010

Laboratories are workplaces for the conduct of experimentation across disciplines and perform interdisciplinary scientific research. This work will summarize the key architectural, engineering, and operational, safety, and sustainability considerations for the design Laboratories.

The author recognizes that in the 21st century we are pushing project design teams to create research laboratories that are responsive to current and future needs, that encourage interaction among students as well as researchers from various disciplines, that help recruit and retain qualified scientists, and that facilitates partnerships and development.
Collaborative Modeling
Authors: Rittgen Peter
Published: September 2010

In the area of business processes, modeling is usually a collaborative activity. In it, stakeholders analyze or design business processes; however, one of the challenges is that the group members typically have diverse backgrounds and conflicting interests, which make it difficult to arrive at a model that represents a consensus. Therefore, it is important to study the way in which modeling teams are organized to overcome these problems. To approach this issue, this paper investigates the modeling behavior of such groups with the help of a tool that supports collaborative modeling while allowing for the effective collection of data on modeling activities. This author identifies the roles that the participants play in that process and derive patterns of team organization. Structured observation yields a detailed process model concerning basic modeling activities.
Short-term variation in near-highway air pollutant gradients on a winter morning
Authors: Durant J. L. , Ash C. A. , Wood E. C. , Herndon S. C. , Jayne J. T. , Knighton W. B. , Canagaratna M. R. , Trull J. B. , Brugge D. , Zamore W. , Kolb C. E.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Quantification of exposure to traffic-related air pollutants near highways is hampered by incomplete knowledge of the scales of temporal variation of pollutant gradients. The goal of this study was to characterize short-term temporal variation of vehicular pollutant gradients within 200–400 m of a major highway (>150 000 vehicles/d). Monitoring was done near Interstate 93 in Somerville (Massachusetts) from 06:00 to 11:00 on 16 January 2008 using a mobile monitoring platform equipped with instruments that measured ultrafine and fine particles (6–1000 nm, particle number concentration (PNC)); particle-phase (>30 nm) NO3−, SO42−, and organic compounds; volatile organic compounds (VOCs); and CO2, NO, NO2, and O3. We observed rapid changes in pollutant gradients due to variations in highway traffic flow rate, wind speed, and surface boundary layer height. Before sunrise and peak traffic flow rates, downwind concentrations of particles, CO2, NO, and NO2 were highest within 100–250 m of the highway. After sunrise pollutant levels declined sharply (e.g., PNC and NO were more than halved) and the gradients became less pronounced as wind speed increased and the surface boundary layer rose allowing mixing with cleaner air aloft. The levels of aromatic VOCs and NO3−, SO42− and organic aerosols were generally low throughout the morning, and their spatial and temporal variations were less pronounced compared to PNC and NO. O3 levels increased throughout the morning due to mixing with O3-enriched air aloft and were generally lowest near the highway reflecting reaction with NO. There was little if any evolution in the size distribution of 6–225 nm particles with distance from the highway. These results suggest that to improve the accuracy of exposure estimates to near-highway pollutants, short-term (e.g., hourly) temporal variations in pollutant gradients must be measured to reflect changes in traffic patterns and local meteorology.
An improved criterion for new particle formation in diverse atmospheric environments
Authors: Kuang C. , Riipinen I. , Sihto S.-L. , Kulmala M. , McCormick A. V. , McMurry P. H.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. A dimensionless theory for new particle formation (NPF) was developed, using an aerosol population balance model incorporating recent developments in nucleation rates and measured particle growth rates. Based on this theoretical analysis, it was shown that a dimensionless parameter LΓ, characterizing the ratio of the particle scavenging loss rate to the particle growth rate, exclusively determined whether or not NPF would occur on a particular day. This parameter determines the probability that a nucleated particle will grow to a detectable size before being lost by coagulation with the pre-existing aerosol. Cluster-cluster coagulation was shown to contribute negligibly to this survival probability under conditions pertinent to the atmosphere. Data acquired during intensive measurement campaigns in Tecamac (MILAGRO), Atlanta (ANARChE), Boulder, and Hyytiälä (QUEST II, QUEST IV, and EUCAARI) were used to test the validity of LΓ as an NPF criterion. Measurements included aerosol size distributions down to 3 nm and gas-phase sulfuric acid concentrations. The model was applied to seventy-seven NPF events and nineteen non-events (characterized by growth of pre-existing aerosol without NPF) measured in diverse environments with broad ranges in sulfuric acid concentrations, ultrafine number concentrations, aerosol surface areas, and particle growth rates (nearly two orders of magnitude). Across this diverse data set, a nominal value of LΓ=0.7 was found to determine the boundary for the occurrence of NPF, with NPF occurring when LΓ<0.7 and being suppressed when LΓ>0.7. Moreover, nearly 45% of measured LΓ values associated with NPF fell in the relatively narrow range of 0.1
Glyoxal vertical columns from GOME-2 backscattered light measurements and comparisons with a global model
Authors: Lerot C. , Stavrakou T. , De Smedt I. , Müller J.-F. , Van Roozendael M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Glyoxal vertical column densities have been retrieved from nadir backscattered radiances measured from 2007 to 2009 by the spaceborne GOME-2/METOP-A sensor. The retrieval algorithm is based on the DOAS technique and optimized settings have been used to determine glyoxal slant columns. The liquid water absorption is accounted for using a two-step DOAS approach, leading to a drastic improvement of the fit quality over remote clear water oceans. Air mass factors are calculated by means of look-up tables of weighting functions pre-calculated with the LIDORT v3.3 radiative transfer model and using a priori glyoxal vertical distributions provided by the IMAGESv2 chemical transport model. The total error estimate comprises random and systematic errors associated to the DOAS fit, the air mass factor calculation and the cloud correction. The highest glyoxal vertical column densities are mainly observed in continental tropical regions, while the mid-latitude columns strongly depend on the season with maximum values during warm months. An anthropogenic signature is also observed in highly populated regions of Asia. Comparisons with glyoxal columns simulated with IMAGESv2 in different regions of the world generally point to a missing glyoxal source, most probably of biogenic origin.
The European aerosol budget in 2006
Authors: Aan de Brugh J. M. J. , Schaap M. , Vignati E. , Dentener F. , Kahnert M. , Sofiev M. , Huijnen V. , Krol M. C.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. This paper presents the aerosol budget over Europe in 2006 calculated with the global transport model TM5 coupled to the size-resolved aerosol module M7. Comparison with ground observations indicates that the model reproduces the observed concentrations quite well with an expected slight underestimation of PM10 due to missing emissions (e.g. resuspension). We observe that a little less than half of the anthropogenic aerosols emitted in Europe are exported and the rest is removed by deposition. The anthropogenic aerosols are removed mostly by rain (95%) and only 5% is removed by dry deposition. For the larger natural aerosols, especially sea salt, a larger fraction is removed by dry processes (sea salt: 70%, mineral dust: 35%). We observe transport of aerosols in the jet stream in the higher atmosphere and an import of Sahara dust from the south at high altitudes. Comparison with optical measurements shows that the model reproduces the Ångström parameter very well, which indicates a correct simulation of the aerosol size distribution. However, we observe an underestimation of the aerosol optical depth. Because the surface concentrations are close to the observations, the shortage of aerosol in the model is probably at higher altitudes. We show that the discrepancies are mainly caused by an overestimation of wet-removal rates. To match the observations, the wet-removal rates have to be scaled down by a factor of about 5. In that case the modelled ground-level concentrations of sulphate and sea salt increase by 50% (which deteriorates the match), while other components stay roughly the same. Finally, it is shown that in particular events, improved fire emission estimates may significantly improve the ability of the model to simulate the aerosol optical depth. We stress that discrepancies in aerosol models can be adequately analysed if all models would provide (regional) aerosol budgets, as presented in the current study.
Retrieval of water vapor vertical distributions in the upper troposphere and the lower stratosphere from SCIAMACHY limb measurements
Authors: Rozanov A. , Weigel K. , Bovensmann H. , Dhomse S. , Eichmann K.-U. , Kivi R. , Rozanov V. , Vömel H. , Weber M. , Burrows J. P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. This study describes the retrieval of water vapor vertical distributions in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS) altitude range from space-borne observations of the scattered solar light made in limb viewing geometry and presents first results using measurements from SCIAMACHY. In the previous publications, the retrieval of water vapor vertical distributions has been achieved exploiting either the emitted radiance leaving the atmosphere or the transmitted solar radiation. In this study the scattered solar radiation is used as a new source of information on the water vapor content in the UTLS region. A recently developed retrieval algorithm utilizes the differential absorption structure of the water vapor in 1353–1410 nm spectral range and yields the water vapor content in 11–25 km altitude range. In this study the retrieval algorithm is successfully applied to SCIAMACHY limb measurements and the resulting water vapor profiles are compared to in situ balloon-borne observations. The results from both satellite and balloon-borne instruments are found to agree typically within 20%.
Southern Ocean warming and hydrological change during the Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum
Authors: Sluijs A. , Bijl P. K. , Schouten S. , Röhl U. , Reichart G.-J. , Brinkhuis H.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. A brief (~150 kyr) period of widespread global average surface warming marks the transition between the Paleocene and Eocene epochs, ~56 million years ago. This so-called ''Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum'' (PETM) is associated with the massive injection of 13C-depleted CO2 and/or CH4, reflected in a negative carbon isotope excursion (CIE). Biotic responses include a global dominance (acme) of the subtropical dinoflagellate Apectodinium. Here we identify the PETM in a marine sedimentary sequence deposited on the East Tasman Plateau at Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Site 1172 and show that Southwest Pacific sea surface temperatures increased from ~26 °C to ~33 °C during the PETM. Such temperatures before, during and after the PETM are >10 °C warmer than predicted by paleoclimate model simulations for this latitude, suggesting that not only Arctic, but also Antarctic temperatures are underestimated in simulations of ancient greenhouse climates by current generation fully-coupled climate models. An early influx of abundant Apectodinium confirms that environmental change preceded the CIE on a global scale. Organic dinoflagellate cyst assemblages suggest a local decrease in the amount of river run off reaching the core site during the PETM, possibly in concert with eustatic rise. Moreover, the assemblages suggest changes in seasonality of the regional hydrological system and storm activity. Finally, significant variation in dinoflagellate cyst assemblages during the PETM indicates that the Southwest Pacific climate state was more dynamic during this event than before and after, a finding comparable to similar studies of PETM successions from the New Jersey Shelf.
Auto-control of pumping operations in sewerage systems by rule-based fuzzy neural networks
Authors: Chiang Y.-M. , Chang L.-C. , Tsai M.-J. , Wang Y.-F. , Chang F.-J.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Pumping stations play an important role in flood mitigation in metropolitan areas. The existing sewerage systems, however, are facing a great challenge of fast rising peak flow resulting from urbanization and climate change. It is imperative to construct an efficient and accurate operating prediction model for pumping stations to simulate the drainage mechanism for discharging the rainwater in advance. In this study, we propose two rule-based fuzzy neural networks, adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and counterpropagatiom fuzzy neural network (CFNN) for on-line predicting of the number of open and closed pumps of a pivotal pumping station in Taipei city up to a lead time of 20 min. The performance of ANFIS outperforms that of CFNN in terms of model efficiency, accuracy, and correctness. Furthermore, the results not only show the predictive water levels do contribute to the successfully operating pumping stations but also demonstrate the applicability and reliability of ANFIS in automatically controlling the urban sewerage systems.
Changes in streamflow and sediment discharge and the response to human activities in the middle reaches of the Yellow River
Authors: Gao P. , Mu X.-M. , Wang F. , Li R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The objectives of this work are: (a) to statistically test and quantify the decreasing trends of streamflow and sediment discharge in the middle reaches of the Yellow River in China during 1950–2008, (b) to identify change points or transition years of the decreasing trends, and (c) to diagnose whether the decreasing trends were caused by precipitation changes or human intervention, or both. The results show that significant decreasing trends in annual streamflow and sediment discharge have existed since the late 1950s in the middle reaches of the Yellow River (P=0.01). Change-point analyses further revealed that transition years existed and that abrupt decline in streamflow and sediment discharge began in 1985 and 1981, respectively, in the middle reaches of the Yellow River (P=0.05). Adoption of conservation measures in the 1980s and 1990s corroborates the identified transition years. Double-mass curves of precipitation vs. streamflow (sediment) for the periods before and after the transition year show remarkable decreases in proportionality of streamflow (sediment) generation. Compared with the period before the transition year, cumulative streamflow and cumulative sediment discharge reduced respectively by 17.8% and 28% during 1985–2008, which was caused by human intervention, in the middle reaches of the Yellow River. It is, therefore, concluded that human activities occupied a dominant position and played a major role in the streamflow and sediment discharge reduction in the middle reaches of the Yellow River.