bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the effects of climate variability and human activities on runoff from the Laohahe basin in northern China
Authors: Jiang Shanhu , Ren Liliang , Yong Bin , Fu Congbin , Yang Xiaoli
Published: February 2013

The runoff from the Laohahe basin in northern China has been greatly influenced by climate variability and human activities, and it is very important to quantitatively analyze these effects. Three methods, the Mann–Kendall test, ordered clustering and double cumulative curve were used to detect the trend and change points in annual precipitation and runoff for the period from 1964 to 2008, and the runoff series were divided into a ‘natural period’ (1964–1979) and a ‘human-induced period’ (1980–2008). Then the three-layer Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC-3L) model was used to quantitatively evaluate the effects of climate variability and human activities on runoff. The results show that compared with the ‘natural period’, the annual precipitation varied by −10, 10 and −10% during the periods of 1980–1989, 1990–1999 and 2000–2008, respectively, while the corresponding yearly runoff changed by −57, 17 and −72%, respectively. It was found that the range of yearly runoff percentage change is much larger than the range of annual precipitation variation. Additionally, the computing effects of human activities on runoff decreasing are more evident during the two drier periods of 1980–1989 and 2000–2008 with the contribution of 70 and 78%, respectively, while that of the wetter period of 1990–1999 is only 21%. It is suggested that within the Laohahe basin human activities are the main reason that runoff decreased during the two drier periods of 1980–1989 and 2000–2008, while the increasing of the runoff during the wetter period of 1990–1999 is mainly attributed to the climate variability.
Assessing vegetation response to drought in the Laohahe catchment, North China
Authors: Liu Xiaofan , Ren Liliang , Yuan Fei , Xu Jing , Liu Wei
Published: February 2013

In order to better understand the relationship between vegetation vigour and moisture availability, a correlation analysis based on different vegetation types was conducted between time series of monthly Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) during the growing season from April to October within the Laohahe catchment. It was found that NDVI had good correlation with PDSI, especially for shrub and grass. The correlation between NDVI and PDSI varies significantly from one month to another. The highest value of correlation coefficients appears in June when the vegetation is growing; lower correlations are noted at the end of growing season for all vegetation types. The influence of meteorological drought on vegetation vigour is stronger in the first half of the growing season, before the vegetation reaches the peak greenness. In order to take the seasonal effect into consideration, a regression model with seasonal dummy variables was used to simulate the relationship between NDVI and PDSI. The results showed that the NDVI–PDSI relationship is significant (α = 0.05) within the growing season, and that NDVI is an effective indicator to monitor and detect droughts if seasonal timing is taken into account.
Quantitative analysis of runoff reduction in the Laohahe basin
Authors: Ren Liliang , Liu Xiaofan , Yuan Fei , Xu Jing , Liu Wei
Published: February 2013

In order to determine the reason for runoff reduction, daily natural runoff series were restored using a conceptual rainfall–runoff model. The period of 1970–1979 was regarded as a base period with little human activity; model parameters for each subcatchment within the Laohahe basin were calibrated for this period. The effects of human activity and climate change on runoff were quantified by comparing the observed runoff and the natural runoff simulated by the hydrological model. The results show that the observed annual mean runoffs in the 1980s and especially in the 2000s are smaller than those of the 1970s. Although runoff reduction in the 1980s and 2000s is mainly caused by climate change, human activity also plays an important role on the runoff reduction. Taking the 2000 as an example, human activity and climate change are responsible for 45.6 and 54.4% of the runoff reduction in Laohahe basin, respectively. The effect of human activity on runoff reduction in the Laohahe basin is increasingly intensive from the 1980s to the 2000s. Human activity in the Dianzi catchment has the most drastic effect within the Laohahe basin.
Estimation of baseflow recession constants and effective hydraulic parameters in the karst basins of southwest China
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhang Yan-fang , Xue Xianwu , Zhang Zhicai , Wei Lingna
Published: February 2013

By analysing the hydrographs of karst basin outflow, it is possible to identify aquifer characteristics and, accordingly, the main features of a karst basin. In this study, 19 basins with daily observed flow discharges during drought periods between October and April 1973–1983 were selected to analyse the master recession curve (MRC). During a drought period, the MRCs were separated into segments of fast flow exponential recession and slow flow exponential recession. Break points of the fast and slow recession segments were identified and the recession constants α were determined. Relationships between α and basin area were identified. According to the estimated baseflow recession constants, hydraulic parameters including aquifer thickness and hydraulic conductivity were estimated. Hydraulic conductivities in the near-surface epikarst aquifer are of the order 10−3 m s−1, much larger than 10−5 m s−1 in the low-permeability aquifer.
Aneurysmal Dilatation of Dialysis Arteriovenous Access
Authors: Shah Ravish , Vachharajani Tushar J. , Agarwal Anil K.
Published: February 2013

Arteriovenous fistula is considered the “ideal vascular access” in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD); however, its creation is not without complications. Aneurysmal dilatation is a poorly defined complication which, can potentially lead to access loss and life threatening hemorrhage. Increased venous pressure due to proximal venous stenosis along with repeated cannulations at the same site, are thought to play a significant role in pathogenesis. Given risk of substantial bleeding, it is recommended to avoid cannulation of aneurysmal area; however, as seen in our patient significant numbers of ESRD patients are at risk of being cannulated in the aneurysmal area. Nephrologist taking care of ESRD patients should be aware of its wide clinical spectrum along with signs of “unstable aneurysms” that would mandate an emergent surgical referral. Fistulogram often identifies a high grade proximal stenosis which can be treated by percutaneous angioplasty and perhaps halt the aneurysm progression. Although, endovascular interventions with stent graft placement can be considered in those with pseudoaneurysms related to arteriovenous grafts, it is often an interim measure in an attempt to prolong access longevity. With new surgical techniques and enhanced expertise, it is now possible to salvage the current AV access while simultaneously preserving the precious venous capital for the future AV accesses.
A study on alkali pretreatment conditions of sorghum stem for maximum sugar recovery using statistical approach
Authors: Nikzad Maryam , Movagharnejad Kamyar , Talebnia Farid , Najafpour Ghasem , Hosein Farahi
Published: February 2013

Bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass provides an alternative
energy-production system. Sorghum bicolor stem is a cheap agro-waste for
bioethanol production. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was
used to optimize alkali pretreatment conditions for sorghum bicolor stem with
respect to substrate concentration, NaOH concentration and pretreatment time
based on a central composite rotary design. The main goal was to achieve the
highest glucose and xylose yields after enzymatic hydrolysis. Under optimum
conditions of pretreatment i.e. time 60.4 min, solid loading 4.2%, and NaOH
concentration 1.7%, yields of 98.94% g glucose/g cellulose and 65.14% g
xylose/g hemicelluloses were obtained. The results of a confirmation
experiment under the optimal conditions agreed well with model predictions.
Pretreatment of sorghum bicolor stem at the optimum condition increased the
glucose and xylose yields by 7.14 and 3.02 fold, respectively. Alkali
pretreatment showed to be a great choice for the pretreatment of sorghum
bicolor stem.
Sarbanes-Oxley and Public Reporting on Internal Control: Hasty Reaction or Delayed Action?
Authors: Gupta Parveen P. , Weirich Thomas R. , Turner Lynn E.
Published: February 2013

SYNOPSIS

Since its passage, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been criticized, and praised, by many on numerous grounds and claims. However, no single provision of this law has come under more attack than Section 404, which mandates public reporting of internal control effectiveness by an issuer's management as well as its independent auditors. Even after 10 years, the opposition to the Section 404 internal control requirements has continued to the point where the U.S. Congress through two separate Acts—the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and the 2012 Jump Start Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act—have permanently exempted the non-accelerated SEC filers and the “emerging growth” issuers with revenues of $1 billion or less from Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Many of those who oppose the Section 404 requirements rest their claim on grounds that the U.S. Congress acted in haste in mandating the public reporting of internal controls by U.S.-listed companies and that the issue was not well thought out or debated. They also contend that the U.S. Congress acted under pressure because of the public outrage over the bankruptcy filings of Enron and WorldCom. To the contrary, this paper shows that the debate over public reporting of internal control by U.S. public companies is more than six decades old, dating back to the McKesson & Robbins fraud. This paper reviews relevant legislative proposals, bills introduced in both the House and the Senate, regulatory efforts by the SEC, and the recommendations of many commissions set up by the private sector to inform the reader how these efforts were the deliberative precursors to what was eventually codified in Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
How Does an Initial Expectation Bias Influence Auditors' Application and Performance of Analytical Procedures?
Authors: Pike Byron J. , Curtis Mary B. , Chui Lawrence
Published: February 2013

Prior research demonstrates that knowledge of unaudited balances biases auditors' expectations during analytical procedures. What is less understood is how these biases affect auditors' subsequent investigations and their conclusions about the reasonableness of a particular balance. We employ the selective accessibility model to examine the differences in analytical procedure performance when auditor expectations are formed with versus without knowledge of the client's unaudited financial statement balances. In an experimental setting, we found that auditors with knowledge of unaudited balances favored hypotheses and supporting information indicating that the client's balance was reasonably stated. Auditors who formed expectations without current-year figures were more willing to evaluate competing alternatives, could better identify the most pertinent information, and were significantly more likely to identify a material misstatement using an analytical procedure.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors on request.
Fracture Resistance of Teeth Restored With All-ceramic Inlays and Onlays: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Saridag S , Sevimay M , Pekkan G
Published: February 2013

Fracture resistance of inlays and onlays may be influenced by the quantity of the dental structure removed and the restorative materials used. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of two different cavity preparation designs and all-ceramic restorative materials on the fracture resistance of the tooth-restoration complex. Fifty mandibular third molar teeth were randomly divided into the following five groups: group 1: intact teeth (control); group 2: inlay preparations, lithium-disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar Vivadent AG, Schaan, Liechtenstein); group 3: inlay preparations, zirconia ceramic (ICE Zirkon, Zirkonzahn SRL, Gais, Italy); group 4: onlay preparations, lithium-disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max Press); and group 5: onlay preparations, zirconia ceramic (ICE Zirkon). The inlay and onlay restorations were adhesively cemented with dual polymerizing resin cement (Variolink II, Ivoclar Vivadent AG). After thermal cycling (5° to 55°C × 5000 cycles), specimens were subjected to a compressive load until fracture at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey HSD tests. The fracture strength values were significantly higher in the inlay group (2646.7 ± 360.4) restored with lithium-disilicate glass-ceramic than those of the onlay group (1673.6 ± 677) restored with lithium-disilicate glass-ceramic. The fracture strength values of teeth restored with inlays using zirconia ceramic (2849 ± 328) and onlays with zirconia ceramic (2796.3 ± 337.3) were similar to those of the intact teeth (2905.3 ± 398.8). In the IPS e.max Press groups, as the preparation amount was increased (from inlay to onlay preparation), the fracture resistance was decreased. In the ICE Zirkon ceramic groups, the preparation type did not affect the fracture resistance results.
Pullout Bond Strength of Fiber Posts Luted to Different Depths and Submitted to Artificial Aging
Authors: Macedo VC , Souza NAY , Silva AL Faria e , Cotes C , da Silva C , Martinelli M , Kimpara ET
Published: February 2013

Introduction

The extension of fiber post cementation often does not seem to influence the fracture resistance of restorations. This study evaluated the effects of cementation depths on the retention of fiber posts submitted to artificial aging.

Methods

One hundred and sixty bovine incisors were selected to assess post retention. Following endodontic treatment, the canals were flared with diamonds burs. Postholes were prepared in lengths of 5 or 10 mm, after which fiber posts were relined with composite resin and luted with RelyX ARC or RelyX Unicem. The samples were then submitted to thermal and/or mechanical cycling before testing their pullout bond strengths. Absence of cycling was used as a control. The results of each cement were submitted to two-way and post hoc Tukey tests (α=0.05).

Results

Independent of the aging protocol, a depth of 10 mm showed higher pullout bond strength than did 5 mm, except for RelyX Unicem without cycling. For RelyX ARC, thermomechanical cycling resulted in lower values than in the absence of cycling. Mechanical cycling alone promoted the highest bond strength when the posts were luted with RelyX Unicem.

Conclusion

The effect of artificial aging on the pullout bond strength is dependent on the type of material and the depth.
Effects of Light Activation, Agent Concentration, and Tooth Thickness on Dental Sensitivity After Bleaching
Authors: Moncada G , Sepúlveda D , Elphick K , Contente M , Estay J , Bahamondes V , Fernandez E , Oliveira OB , Martin J
Published: February 2013

Examining three bleaching systems, this in vivo clinical trial evaluated the relationship among tooth sensitivity, light activation, and agent concentration, and it correlated dental sensitivity with tooth thickness.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty-seven volunteer patients were included. Inclusion criteria were the presence of anterior teeth without restorations as well as the absence of a previous bleaching experience and absence of noncarious cervical lesions or dental pain. Exclusion criteria included pregnancy or breastfeeding, a maximum of TF3 hypoplasia, tetracycline-fluorosis stains, malpositioned teeth, orthodontic treatment, periodontal disease, and/or analgesic/anti-inflammatory intake. Patients were randomly assigned to three bleaching groups: Group A (n=25) was treated with 15% H2O2 and nitrogenous-titanium-dioxide and was light activated (Lase Peroxide Lite, DMC, SaoCarlos, Sao Paulo, Brazil); Group B (n=27) was treated with 35% H2O2 and was light activated (Lase Peroxide Sensy, DMC); and Group C (n=35) was treated with 35% H2O2 (White Gold Office, Dentsply, 38West Clark Ave., Milford, USA) without light activation. Tooth sensitivity (TS) was self-reported by the patients using the visual analog scale (VAS) at baseline (TS0), immediately after treatment (TSI), and at seven days after treatment (TS7). In 46 patients, tooth thickness was determined by computed tomography. TS0, TSI, and TS7 were compared between the A and B groups to determine the effect of concentration and between the B and C groups to determine the effect of light using analysis of covariance. The correlation between tooth thickness and TSI was determined by Spearman Rho test (SPSS 15).

Results:

Eighty-seven patients were evaluated at baseline, and 61 were evaluated at seven days. Separated by groups, tooth sensitivity, expressed as VAS value at the time points TS0, TSI, and TS7, respectively, were as follows: Group A: 13.76 ± 13.53, 24.40 ± 25.24, and 5.94 ± 5.5; Group B: 15.07 ± 18.14, 42.4 ± 31.78, and 8.68 ± 17.99; and Group C: 10.80 ± 14.83, 31.51 ± 29.34, and 7.24 ± 9.2. Group A showed significantly lower tooth sensitivity than group B at TSI (p=0.032). No differences were observed in the tooth sensitivities between groups B and C. No correlation was encountered between tooth thickness and tooth sensitivity immediately after treatment (Rho=−0.088, p=0.563). The median tooth thickness was 2.78 ± 0.21 mm.

Conclusions:

Increases in the concentration of bleaching agents directly affect tooth sensitivity, and LED/laser activation and tooth thickness are not correlated with tooth sensitivity after dental bleaching.
Experimental Initial Partial Polymerization Method for Fuji II Placement Evaluated for Microleakage With/Without Fuji Coat
Authors: Chen JW , Fletcher B , Roggenkamp CL
Published: February 2013

Purpose

This laboratory study evaluated an experimental 1-second initial partial polymerization (IPP) technique using Fuji II LC vs the manufacturer's standard placement (control), both with and without Fuji Coat, relative to microleakage.

Methods

Class V restorative preparations were placed on the buccal and lingual aspects of 30 permanent, caries-free and restoration-free, third molar teeth. Fuji II LC restorations were placed either following manufacturer-specified guidelines or IPP for 1 second prior to contouring and full light curing. Half of the restorations were placed using the IPP experimental technique and half of the teeth were finished using Fuji Coat LC. Following thermocycling, specimens were sectioned and dye penetration was measured. SPSS 16 was used for statistical analysis (p<0.05).

Results

Mean microleakage results: experimental/varnish (0.08 ± 0.15 mm), control/varnish (0.17 ± 0.35 mm), experimental/nonvarnish (0.33 ± 0.33 mm), and control/nonvarnish (0.58 ± 0.47 mm). Univariate analysis of variance demonstrated significantly less microleakage for the experimental technique (p<0.001), use of finishing varnish (p<0.001), and the combination of experimental/varnish (p=0.013).

Conclusions

The initial partial polymerization technique of Fuji II LC placement significantly reduces microleakage. Fuji Coat LC results in further diminished microleakage.
Type 1 Chiari Malformation
Authors: Robertson Eric K. , Stanley Chris
Published: February 2013

The patient was a 25-year-old woman who was referred to a physical therapist for a chief complaint of pain at the base of the occiput and left upper quarter region, as well as bilateral hand paresthesias. The findings of the history and physical examination were discussed with the patient's physician, who then ordered magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine, which revealed protrusion of the cerebellar tonsils 1 cm below the foramen magnum, consistent with a type 1 Chiari malformation.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(5):483. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0409
Effective and flexible modeling approach to investigate various 3D Talbot carpets from a spatial finite mask
Authors: Maaß J. , Sandfuchs O. , Thomae D. , Gatto A. , Brunner R.
Published: February 2013

We present an effective modeling approach for a fast calculation of the Talbot carpet from an initially 2-dimensional mask pattern. The introduced numerical algorithm is based on a modified angular-spectrum method, in which it is possible to consider the border effects of the Talbot region from a mask with a finite aperture. The Bluestein’s fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm is applied to speed up the calculation. This approach allows as well to decouple the sampling points in the real space and the spatial frequency domain so that both parameters can be chosen independently. As a result an extended three-dimensional Talbot-carpet can be calculated with a minimized number of numerical steps and computation time, but still with high accuracy. The algorithm was applied to various 2-dimensional mask patterns and illumination setups. The influence of specific mask patterns to the resulting field intensity distribution is discussed.
Peace through Tourism: A Critical Look at Nepalese Tourism
Authors: Upadhayaya Pranil
Published: February 2013

Tourism, the world’s largest and one of the fastest developing economic sectors, virtually affects every region and nation of the world due to its potential contribution to international understanding and poverty reduction. Nepal is no exception. The remarkable growth of tourism at present (peace time) has been progressing through its four progressive theoretical models/platforms (e.g., advocacy, cautionary, adaptancy and knowledge-based platforms) with each having both peace potential and limitation. In this scenario, there is likely growing attention and look at tourism with a passion for its peace prospective.‘Peace’, a vital and most cherished dream of humanity, is a state that not only indicates the absence of direct violence but also sustains peaceful relationships among all levels and segments of society and between society and nature.Tourism is sensitive to conflict and responsive to peace. There are both opportunities and challenges for the peace responsiveness of tourism in Nepal. Nepalese tourism, which passed through a decade long (1996-2006) armed conflict, serves a concrete illustration of this nexus of tourism and peace with the dual attributes of tourism for conflict and peace. However, this paper envisages that it is a community-based village tourism supported by sustainable structures and actions, backed by proper implementations of tourism regulations, framed with appropriate codes of conduct and materialized by the integrated effort and partnership actions of all (non-scientific and scientific) stakeholders that can be the most viable option for achieving the noble goal of peace through tourism in Nepal. In this context, this paper exemplifies it with an innovative example of a research-linked and empirically executed case of Machhapuchchhre Model Trek (MMT) in Western Nepal. MMT is footed at the knowledgebased platform on transdisciplinary approach in which the scientific (e.g., researchers) and both academic and non-academic (e.g., local communities, local government, tourism practitioners, tourists, etc.) actors approached in an integrated effort to transform local tourism initiatives as peace promoting and conflict mitigating.This paper finally recommends the knowledge-based approach to Nepalese tourism as important not only for bridging the earlier three platforms but also for fulfilling the dual (mass as well as small-scale community-based village tourism) needs of Nepalese tourism at present and thus succeed on peace aspirations through tourism. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ntdr.v1i1.7368 Nepal Tourism and Development Review Vol.1(1) 2011 15-40
Disciplinarity 2.0 Architectural topography between criticality and pragmatism
Authors: Bun Zoltán
Published: February 2013

In architectural theory, the critical approach appeared in the sixties blending the socio-political assessment of modernity and the aesthetic evaluation of modernism in various proportions. From this combination and partly to increase its effectiveness, critical theory was more or less successfully, also put into practice. However, significant changes in the last two decades, mainly due to the globalization of capitalism, undermined the critical position in almost every field, and in particular the idea of a critical architectural practice. Previously this as a counterpoint, was intended to be the device for the maintenance of disciplinarity against a commercialized mass architecture. Many argue today that instead of criticism that is drawing the lines the `freedom´ of pragmatism is more prominent in the architectural discourse and design. However, this essay rather claims that the struggle between the critical and pragmatist approach no longer makes any sense and argues for a searching of values and meaning
in the `betweenness´ that is the topography of the former poles.
Report about the architectural survey of the Parish Church of the settlement of Sanvignes-les-Mines
Authors: Daragó László , Bakonyi Dániel
Published: February 2013

The medieval church of Sanvignes-les-Mines in Southern Burgundy had been surveyed and researched in 2010 by students of architecture from the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The survey was part of a 20 year long campaign by the French organization called CEP (Centre International d´Etude des Patremoines Culturels) for the inventory of Romanesque churches and chapels in the Charolais-Brionnais region. The method used in the survey and research is introduced, and the findings are concluded in the form of a hypothetical relative periodisation of the church.
Determining factors for the architectural development of factory buildings in Budapest between 1860 and 1918
Authors: Pilsitz Martin
Published: February 2013

The advent of factory building as a construction task in the 19th century was an international phenomenon and soon determined the silhouette of whole cities and landscapes. An understanding of historic factory buildings cannot be obtained solely through the visual approach - albeit these buildings often have their own aesthetic qualities and make a strong graphic expression. In Budapest, it was mainly the food and engineering industries that shaped industrial development in the period under investigation. Identifying the complex factors that led to the construction of this type of building is the first step towards gaining an understanding of such architecture. Technical innovations, new forms of factory organisation, and novel developments in the production process exerted a formative influence on the internal layout of these buildings. The manner in which power was transmitted also served to determine building structures. It should be noted that a factory is established through the combination of machinery
and an organised flow of production. At the turn of the century, American models of factory organisation exerted the primary influence on the construction of factories in Europe. At the same time, the transition from traditional craft industries to modern modes of industrial production also resulted in the development of new types of buildings.
Clinical Significance of Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Authors: Haque K M H S Sirajul , Siddiqui Mahmudur Rahman
Published: February 2013

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v4i1.13676 AKMMC J 2013; 4(1): 3-5
Serum Zinc, Total & Free PSA, Free/Total PSA Ratio and Prostate Cancer Association: A Case Control Study
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur , Mumu Mahbuba Ashrafi , Choudhury ATM Mowladad , Sultana Rosy , Shirin Sonia , Saeidullh Md , Uddin Muhammed Salah , Sultana Razia , Sajani Tabassum Tahmin
Published: February 2013

This case case control study was undertaken to see if there is any association of serum Zinc level with histologically diagnosed prostatic cancer patients. Also to re-establish the importance of estimation of serum Prostate specific antigen PSA, (Total, Free and ratio between free and total) in prostate cancer patients. It was evident from the present study that serum Zinc level has got statistically significant difference between control and prostate cancer patients (p<0.000),. Total PSA and ratio of free and total PSA was also significantly different between control and prostatic cancer patients (p<0.04 and 0.006 respectively). However no significant difference was observed in free PSA level between this two groups (p<0.282).It was concluded from the present study that serum Zinc level could be an adjuvant laboratory test in the diagnosis of prostate cancer and can be started as a routine test in case of suspected prostatic cancer. Also total PSA level and ratio of free and total PSA not free PSA should be done and correlated for diagnosis of prostate cancer. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v4i1.13679 AKMMC J 2013: 4(1): 15-19
Coblation Tonsillectomy Versus Blunt Dissectomy Tonsillectomy in Children
Authors: Matin M A , Chowdhury M Alamgir , Haque Md Enamul , Islam Md Nurul , Shamim Tahsina , Muqeet M A , Ali Md Rowshan
Published: February 2013

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedure performed world wide by the ENT Surgeons.Various methods of tonsillectomy have been practiced over the century aimed at reducing or eliminating intraoperative and postoperative morbidity. Coblation tonsillectomy is a recently introduced surgical technique. Tonsillectomy over blunt dissection tonsillectomy in respect of operative time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative pain, rate of healing of tonsillar fossa and  other postoperative complications. This prospective randomized study was done at Maleka Nursing  Home, Bogra and Bangladesh ENT Hospital, Dhaka for 36 months from 1st January 2008 to 31December 2010. 200 children were divided into two groups of equal number. In one group, the tonsillectomy performed by Coblation method and in the other group the tonsillectomy Age ranged from 3-12 years with mean age 5.6 in coblation group and 4-14 years with mean age 7.2 in dissection group. Number of male patients were slightly more than female with male female ratio was 3:2 in coblation group and 3.7:2 in dissection group. Operative time and amount of blood loss is significantly reduced in the coblation group (10-25 min, mean 12 min in coblation group, 18-35 min, mean 25 min in dissection group. Tonsillectomy by using coblation have shown less intraoperative bleeding (5ml-100 ml, mean 15 ml compared with 50-230 ml, mean 65 ml in dissection method).During post operative follow-up on day 8, children of coblation group experienced mild to moderate  pain with maximum pain on day 2 and no pain on day 8. On the other hand dissection group  experienced moderate to severe pain with maximum pain on day 4 and little or no pain on day 8.Children of coblation group returned to normal diet on day 3 and children of dissection group on  day 8.On 8th post operative day, coblation group showed smooth healing without any granulation tissue in tonsillar fossa whereas granulation tissue is observed in dissection group. No major complications were noted in any group except one secondary haemorrhage in dissection group. Coblation tonsillectectomy offers less operative time, minimum blood loss, less post operative pain,early return to normal diet and rapid healing of tonsillar fossa. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v4i1.13681 AKMMC J 2013: 4(1): 25-29
Genetic Basis of Male Infertility
Authors: Begum Mosammat Rashida , Ehsan Mariya
Published: February 2013

Infertility is a couple's problem. Almost 50% case males are responsible for infertility. Most common cause is oligospermia and azoospermia and approximately 5% to 15% of men with azoospermia and severe oligospermia may have a chromosomal abnormality. Men with significant spermatogenic compromise are the candidates of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Raised FSH level above 9 is an indication of spermatogenic compromise. So, medical treatment for these patients is waste of time and money. Early attempt of assisted reproduction is ideal to avoid the crisis of total spermatogenic failure in near future. But before going for ICSI genetic testing if possible and proper counseling about possibilities of transmission of genetic disease to offspring is necessary. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v4i1.13683 AKMMC J 2013: 4(1): 37-39
Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma of the Maxilla: A Case Report
Authors: Kamal Mohammad Shah , Bahar Mohammad Ashik Anwar , Latif MA , Khan Mehdi Mohammad Imtiaz Uddin
Published: February 2013

Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is a rare fibro-osseous neoplasm that arises within the craniofacial bones in individuals under 15 years of age. It affects both males and females equally. It has the potential for excessive growth, bone destruction, and recurrence. It is more aggressive than ossifying fibroma. Recurrence rate ranges from 30% to 58% .We report a case of 11-year-old male child presented with a painless, progressive swelling of the right face for 8 months. CT scan demonstrated a well-defined, mixed-density mass filling the right maxillary sinus. Under general anaesthesia, surgical excision of the tumour was performed. Histopathologically, excised specimen was identical with fibro-osseous lesion. Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is aggressive in nature and recurrence rate is high, so early detection and complete surgical excision is essential. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v4i1.13685 AKMMC J 2013: 4(1): 42-44
A New Approach To Solve Fuzzy Non-Linear Equations Using Fixed Point Iteration Algorithm
Authors: Saha Goutam Kumar , Shirin Shapla
Published: February 2013

A non-linear equation over linear fuzzy real numbers is called a fuzzy non-linear  equation. In Classical Mathematics a non-linear equation can be solved by using  different types of numerical methods. In this paper a new approach has been  introduced to get approximate solutions with the help of Fixed Point Iteration  Algorithm. Graphical representation of the solutions has also been drawn so that  anyone can achieve the idea of converging to the root of a fuzzy non-linear equation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ganit.v32i0.13641 GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc. (ISSN 1606-3694) 32 (2012) 15  21
Measuring Maize Seedling Drought Response in Search of Tolerant Germplasm
Authors: Meeks Meghyn , Murray Seth , Hague Steve , Hays Dirk
Published: February 2013

To identify and develop drought tolerant maize (Zea mays L.), high-throughput and cost-effective screening methods are needed. In dicot crops, measuring survival and recovery of seedlings has been successful in predicting drought tolerance but has not been reported in C4 grasses such as maize. Seedlings of sixty-two diverse maize inbred lines and their hybrid testcross progeny were evaluated for germination, survival and recovery after a series of drought cycles. Genotypic differences among inbred lines and hybrid testcrosses were best explained approximately 13 and 18 days after planting, respectively. Genotypic effects were significant and explained over 6% of experimental variance. Specifically three inbred lines had significant survival, and 14 hybrids had significant recovery. However, no significant correlation was observed between hybrids and inbreds (R2 = 0.03), indicating seedling stress response is more useful as a secondary screening parameter in hybrids than in inbred lines per se. Field yield data under full and limited irrigation indicated that seedling drought mechanisms were independent of drought responses at flowering in this study.
The Search for Cognitive Terminology: An Analysis of Comparative Psychology Journal Titles
Authors: Whissell Cynthia , Abramson Charles , Barber Kelsey
Published: February 2013

This research examines the employment of cognitive or mentalist words in the titles of articles from three comparative psychology journals (Journal of Comparative Psychology, International Journal of Comparative Psychology, Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behavior Processes; 8,572 titles, >100,000 words). The Dictionary of Affect in Language, coupled with a word search of titles, was employed to demonstrate cognitive creep. The use of cognitive terminology increased over time (1940–2010) and the increase was especially notable in comparison to the use of behavioral words, highlighting a progressively cognitivist approach to comparative research. Problems associated with the use of cognitive terminology in this domain include a lack of operationalization and a lack of portability. There were stylistic differences among journals including an increased use of words rated as pleasant and concrete across years for Journal of Comparative Psychology, and a greater use of emotionally unpleasant and concrete words in Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behavior Processes.
Precise Active Site Analysis for TiCl3/MgCl2 Ziegler-Natta Model Catalyst Based on Fractionation and Statistical Methods
Authors: Takahashi Shougo , Wada Toru , Taniike Toshiaki , Terano Minoru
Published: February 2013

In heterogeneous Ziegler-Natta catalysts for olefin polymerization, isolation of a single type of active sites is a kind of ambition, which would solve long-standing questions on the relationship between active site and polymer structures. In this paper, polypropylene produced by TiCl3/MgCl2 model catalysts with minimum Ti heterogeneity was analyzed by combined solvent fractionation and the two-site statistical model. We found that the active sites of the model catalysts were classified into only three types, whose proportions were dependent on the Ti dispersion state. The addition of external donors not only newly formed highly isospecific sites, but also altered the stereochemical nature of the other active sites.
Ethylene Polymerization Using (Imino)vanadium(V) Dichloride Complexes Containing (Anilido)methyl-pyridine, -quinoline Ligands–Halogenated Al Alkyls Catalyst Systems
Authors: Igarashi Atsushi , Zhang Wenjuan , Sun Wen-Hua , Nomura Kotohiro
Published: February 2013

The effect of ligand and Al cocatalysts in ethylene polymerization, using V(N-1-adamantyl)Cl2(L) [L = 2-(2,6-Me2C6H3)NCH2(C9H6N), 8-(2,6-Me2C6H3)NCH2(C9H6N)] and V(N-2-MeC6H3)Cl2[2-(2,6-R'2C6H3)NCH2(C5H4N)] (R' = Me, iPr), has been explored. The reaction products in the presence of Et2AlCl or Me2AlCl cocatalyst were polyethylene whereas the reaction product of the 2-methylphenylimido analogues in the presence of MAO cocatalyst was 1-butene with high selectivity, suggesting that the catalyst/cocatalyst nuclearity effect plays a role in this catalysis.
Slag Behavior in Gasifiers. Part II: Constitutive Modeling of Slag
Authors: Massoudi Mehrdad , Wang Ping
Published: February 2013

The viscosity of slag and the thermal conductivity of ash deposits are among two of the most important constitutive parameters that need to be studied. The accurate formulation or representations of the (transport) properties of coal present a special challenge of modeling efforts in computational fluid dynamics applications. Studies have indicated that slag viscosity must be within a certain range of temperatures for tapping and the membrane wall to be accessible, for example, between 1,300 °C and 1,500 °C, the viscosity is approximately 25 Pa·s. As the operating temperature decreases, the slag cools and solid crystals begin to form. Since slag behaves as a non-linear fluid, we discuss the constitutive modeling of slag and the important parameters that must be studied. We propose a new constitutive model, where the stress tensor not only has a yield stress part, but it also has a viscous part with a shear rate dependency of the viscosity, along with temperature and concentration dependency, while allowing for the possibility of the normal stress effects. In Part I, we reviewed, identify and discuss the key coal ash properties and the operating conditions impacting slag behavior.
Numerical Model of a Variable-Combined-Cycle Engine for Dual Subsonic and Supersonic Cruise
Authors: Fernandez-Villace Victor , Paniagua Guillermo
Published: February 2013

Efficient high speed propulsion requires exploiting the cooling capability of the cryogenic fuel in the propulsion cycle. This paper presents the numerical model of a combined cycle engine while in air turbo-rocket configuration. Specific models of the various heat exchanger modules and the turbomachinery elements were developed to represent the physical behavior at off-design operation. The dynamic nature of the model allows the introduction of the engine control logic that limits the operation of certain subcomponents and extends the overall engine operational envelope. The specific impulse and uninstalled thrust are detailed while flying a determined trajectory between Mach 2.5 and 5 for varying throttling levels throughout the operational envelope.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Inclusion Complex of β-cyclodextrin and Azomethine
Authors: Sambasevam Kavirajaa , Mohamad Sharifah , Sarih Norazilawati , Ismail Nor
Published: February 2013

A β-cyclodextrin (β-Cyd) inclusion complex containing azomethine as a guest was prepared by kneading method with aliquot addition of ethanol. The product was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR) and Thermogravimetric Analyzer (TGA), which proves the formation of the inclusion complex where the benzyl part of azomethine has been encapsulated by the hydrophobic cavity of β-Cyd. The interaction of β-Cyd and azomethine was also analyzed by means of spectrometry by UV-Vis spectrophotometer to determine the formation constant. The formation constant was calculated by using a modified Benesi-Hildebrand equation at 25 °C. The apparent formation constant obtained was 1.29 × 104 L/mol. Besides that, the stoichiometry ratio was also determined to be 1:1 for the inclusion complex of β-Cyd with azomethine.
NADPH Oxidase Biology and the Regulation of Tyrosine Kinase Receptor Signaling and Cancer Drug Cytotoxicity
Authors: Paletta-Silva Rafael , Rocco-Machado Nathália , Meyer-Fernandes José
Published: February 2013

The outdated idea that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are only dangerous products of cellular metabolism, causing toxic and mutagenic effects on cellular components, is being replaced by the view that ROS have several important functions in cell signaling. In aerobic organisms, ROS can be generated from different sources, including the mitochondrial electron transport chain, xanthine oxidase, myeloperoxidase, and lipoxygenase, but the only enzyme family that produces ROS as its main product is the NADPH oxidase family (NOX enzymes). These transfer electrons from NADPH (converting it to NADP−) to oxygen to make O2•−. Due to their stability, the products of NADPH oxidase, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide are considered the most favorable ROS to act as signaling molecules. Transcription factors that regulate gene expression involved in carcinogenesis are modulated by NADPH oxidase, and it has emerged as a promising target for cancer therapies. The present review discusses the mechanisms by which NADPH oxidase regulates signal transduction pathways in view of tyrosine kinase receptors, which are pivotal to regulating the hallmarks of cancer, and how ROS mediate the cytotoxicity of several cancer drugs employed in clinical practice.
Evolution of Microbial “Streamer” Growths in an Acidic, Metal-Contaminated Stream Draining an Abandoned Underground Copper Mine
Authors: Kay Catherine , Rowe Owen , Rocchetti Laura , Coupland Kris , Hallberg Kevin , Johnson D.
Published: February 2013

A nine year study was carried out on the evolution of macroscopic “acid streamer” growths in acidic, metal-rich mine water from the point of construction of a new channel to drain an abandoned underground copper mine. The new channel became rapidly colonized by acidophilic bacteria: two species of autotrophic iron-oxidizers (Acidithiobacillus ferrivorans and “Ferrovum myxofaciens”) and a heterotrophic iron-oxidizer (a novel genus/species with the proposed name “Acidithrix ferrooxidans”). The same bacteria dominated the acid streamer communities for the entire nine year period, with the autotrophic species accounting for ~80% of the micro-organisms in the streamer growths (as determined by terminal restriction enzyme fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis). Biodiversity of the acid streamers became somewhat greater in time, and included species of heterotrophic acidophiles that reduce ferric iron (Acidiphilium, Acidobacterium, Acidocella and gammaproteobacterium WJ2) and other autotrophic iron-oxidizers (Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Leptospirillum ferrooxidans). The diversity of archaea in the acid streamers was far more limited; relatively few clones were obtained, all of which were very distantly related to known species of euryarchaeotes. Some differences were apparent between the acid streamer community and planktonic-phase bacteria. This study has provided unique insights into the evolution of an extremophilic microbial community, and identified several novel species of acidophilic prokaryotes.
Antibacterial/Antifungal Activity and Synergistic Interactions between Polyprenols and Other Lipids Isolated from Ginkgo Biloba L. Leaves
Authors: Tao Ran , Wang Cheng-Zhang , Kong Zhen-Wu
Published: February 2013

Polyprenols separated from lipids are promising new components from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves (GBL). In this paper, ginkgo lipids were isolated by extraction with petroleum ether, saponification, and molecular distillation. Eight known compounds: isophytol (1), nerolidol (2), linalool (3), β-sitosterol acetate (4), β-sitosterol (5), stigmasterol (6), ergosterol (7), β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (8) and Ginkgo biloba polyprenols (GBP) were separated from GBL by chromatography and identified mainly by NMR. The separated and identified compounds 1, 2 and 3 are reported here for the first time in GBL. The 3D-DAD-HPLC-chromatogram (190–232 nm) of GBP was recorded. This study provides new evidence as there are no previous reports on antibacterial/antifungal activities and synergistic interactions between GBP and the compounds separated from GBL lipids against Salmonella enterica, Staphylocococus aureus and Aspergillus niger. Nerolidol (2) showed the highest activity among all the tested samples and of all mixture groups tested the GBP with isophytol (1) mixture had the strongest synergistic effect against Salmonella enterica among the three tested strains. A proportion of isophytol and GBP of 38.19%:61.81% (wt/wt) was determined by mixture design as the optimal proportion for the synergistic effect of GBP with isophytol against Salmonella enterica.
Investigations on a Novel Inductive Concept Frequency Technique for the Grading of Oil Palm Fresh Fruit Bunches
Authors: Harun Noor , Misron Norhisam , Sidek Roslina , Aris Ishak , Ahmad Desa , Wakiwaka Hiroyuki , Tashiro Kunihisa
Published: February 2013

From the Malaysian harvester’s perspective, the determination of the ripeness of the oil palm (FFB) is a critical factor to maximize palm oil production. A preliminary study of a novel oil palm fruit sensor to detect the maturity of oil palm fruit bunches is presented. To optimize the functionality of the sensor, the frequency characteristics of air coils of various diameters are investigated to determine their inductance and resonant characteristics. Sixteen samples from two categories, namely ripe oil palm fruitlets and unripe oil palm fruitlets, are tested from 100 Hz up to 100 MHz frequency. The results showed the inductance and resonant characteristics of the air coil sensors display significant changes among the samples of each category. The investigations on the frequency characteristics of the sensor air coils are studied to observe the effect of variations in the coil diameter. The effect of coil diameter yields a significant 0.02643 MHz difference between unripe samples to air and 0.01084 MHz for ripe samples to air. The designed sensor exhibits significant potential in determining the maturity of oil palm fruits.