bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-depth characterization of secondary effluent from a municipal wastewater treatment plant located in Northern China for advanced treatment
Authors: Wang Shutao , Zhang Xingwen , Wang Zhi-Wu , Li Xiangkun , Ma Jun
Published: April 2014

This study provided insight into the characterization of secondary effluent from a wastewater treatment plant located in northeastern China. The secondary effluent was separated into three fractions, the dissolved, the near-colloidal and the suspended, to study their individual characteristics. It revealed that most of the organics in the secondary effluent existed in the dissolved form, accounting for 78.1–86.5% of the total chemical oxygen demand and 82.6–86.6% of the total organic carbon. Results from the molecular weight distribution study further indicated that organics with MW < 1k Da constituted 56.3–62.7% of total organics. Moreover, the particle size distribution study suggested that particles between 2.0 and 6.8 μm in diameter made up 80.0% of the total suspended solids. Both biological oxygen demand/chemical oxygen demand and biological dissolved organic carbon/dissolved organic carbon were measured ranging from 0.2 to 0.3, suggesting the most secondary effluent organics were biologically refractory. This conclusion was further strengthened by the functional groups information obtained from the GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) analysis. The characteristics information revealed from this study will help the design and selection of water quality-specific tertiary treatment technologies for secondary effluent water purification and reuse.
Effect of hydraulic retention time and seed material on phosphorus recovery and crystal size from urine in an air-agitated reactor
Authors: Liu Xiaoning , Hu Zhengyi , Wang Jinzhi , Wen Guoqi
Published: April 2014

Phosphorus (P) recovery from urine is affected by various parameters. This study evaluates the effects of hydraulic retention time (HRT) and seed material on P recovery and crystal size in an air-agitated reactor. Results show that ortho-phosphate removal and struvite recovery efficiencies were 96.3% and 89.5%, and 97.1% and 93.0%, after five runs of HRTs of 1 and 2 h, respectively. Low loss of crystals from effluent urine solutions indicates high struvite recovery efficiency and is correlated with the structure and design of the reactor. The average particle size decreased from 40.0 to 31.7 μm as the HRT increased from 1 to 2 h. The two types of seed materials (zeolite and molecular sieve) did not affect the ortho-phosphate removal efficiency but affected the struvite crystal size. In particular, multi-stage addition of zeolites increased the average crystal size from 33.7 to 57.0 μm.
Intensification of flotation treatment by exposure to vibration
Authors: Ivanov M. V. , Ksenofontov B. S.
Published: April 2014

In this paper, an intensification of wastewater flotation treatment by exposure to vibration is studied. Exposure to vibration results in the decrease of air bubble size, increase of air flow through the aerator and more even dispersion of air bubbles in water. This intensifies the aeration process, thus significantly improving the treatment efficiency. A multistage model of flotation kinetics has been applied in order to take into consideration the effects of vibration. The model gives a thorough explanation of the flotation process with consideration of ‘air bubble – contaminant particle’ aggregate formation. A large series of experiments was conducted with paint and varnish industry wastewaters. It is shown that vibroflotation results in an increase of treatment efficiency by up to three times. A comparison of the experimental data with the results of mathematical modeling is presented, showing a good correlation of theoretical and experimental results.
Adsorption of perfluorooctane sulfonate on carbon nanotubes: influence of pH and competitive ions
Authors: Bei Yue , Deng Shubo , Du Ziwen , Wang Bin , Huang Jun , Yu Gang
Published: April 2014

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is one of the persistent organic pollutants that has aroused global concern. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have drawn much research attention due to their unique properties. This study was aimed to investigate the adsorption behaviour of PFOS with relation to CNTs and clarify their interactions. Electrostatic repulsion suppressed the sorption of PFOS to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), resulting in low sorption at high pH. With the increase of anion concentration, the removal of PFOS decreased by 20 to 30% because ionic strength changed the aggregation of the MWCNTs. Unlike inorganic anions, cationic metals including Cu(II) and Pb(II) had a significant impact on the sorption of PFOS onto the MWCNTs. At low concentrations of Cu(II) and Pb(II), PFOS removal decreased due to the suppressive effect of ionic strength, while the removal of PFOS increased rapidly with increasing metal concentrations, especially for functionalized MWCNTs. The enhanced adsorption of PFOS at high Cu(II) and Pb(II) concentrations was attributed to the adsorbed cationic metals which might further adsorb PFOS.
Membrane thickening aerobic digestion processes
Authors: Woo Bryen
Published: April 2014

Sludge management accounts for approximately 60% of the total wastewater treatment plant expenditure and laws for sludge disposal are becoming increasingly stringent, therefore much consideration is required when designing a solids handling process. A membrane thickening aerobic digestion process integrates a controlled aerobic digestion process with pre-thickening waste activated sludge using membrane technology. This process typically features an anoxic tank, an aerated membrane thickener operating in loop with a first-stage digester followed by second-stage digestion. Membrane thickening aerobic digestion processes can handle sludge from any liquid treatment process and is best for facilities obligated to meet low total phosphorus and nitrogen discharge limits. Membrane thickening aerobic digestion processes offer many advantages including: producing a reusable quality permeate with minimal levels of total phosphorus and nitrogen that can be recycled to the head works of a plant, protecting the performance of a biological nutrient removal liquid treatment process without requiring chemical addition, providing reliable thickening up to 4% solids concentration without the use of polymers or attention to decanting, increasing sludge storage capacities in existing tanks, minimizing the footprint of new tanks, reducing disposal costs, and providing Class B stabilization.
Novel application of bamboo-based fibers in a biological contact oxidation process
Authors: Zou Xiaoming , Feng Yi , Sheng Changming , Liu Jia , Lu Lijun , Hu Cui , Huang Xiangfeng
Published: April 2014

Generally, biofilm-supporting carriers in biological contact oxidation processes are made from thermoplastic polymers, which cause potential ecological damage because of the low biodegradation and high accumulation in organisms. Thus, four bamboo-based fibers, bamboo primitive fiber, bamboo fiber, bamboo charcoal fiber (BBF) and bamboo charcoal–cotton blending fiber (BCBF), were used as carriers and compared with two commercial carriers (vinylon (VY) and polypropylene (PP)) in a biological contact oxidation process system with the goal to develop a biodegradable and sustainable biofilm medium. Under steady state conditions, pollutants (chemical oxygen demand and NH4+-N) in stage 1 (days 1–29, hydraulic retention time (HRT) = 12 h) were efficiently removed with a removal efficiency ranging from 85 to 95%. In stage 2 (days 30–53, HRT = 4–12 h), the pollutant-removal efficiency of four reactors (BBF, BCBF, VY and PP) were nearly indistinguishable and were higher than the two other reactors, especially when the HRT was set at 4 h (days 46–53). Consequently, two optimized bamboo-based fibers (BBF and BCBF) can be developed as biofilm carriers for wastewater treatment in the future. Furthermore, studies demonstrated that the biofilm development difference showed good correlation with their specific area and relative oxygen content but not with their tenacity and antimicrobial activity.
The Sting Jet in a Simulated Extratropical Cyclone
Authors: Cao Zuohao
Published: April 2014

The sting jet (SJ), distinguished from warm and cold conveyor belt jets, has significant impacts on our society and economy through producing damaging surface winds. The purpose of this study is to confirm two scientific hypotheses on the SJ through diagnosing the idealized numerical simulation. It is confirmed that the SJ exists and produces severe surface winds in the simulated extratropical cyclone with explosively deepening and formation of the bent-back front. It is shown that strong winds in the SJ with a speed of about 30 m s-1 are first appeared in a cloud free zone. It is further demonstrated that the SJs are located at the tip of the bent-back front and the cloud head, and to the south/southwest of the surface low center. These features are in good agreement with observations. It is also confirmed that conditional symmetric instability (CSI) exists and is associated with the strengthening of the SJs at and after the
mature stage of the simulated extratropical cyclone.
Influence of Cavity Preparation, Light-curing Units, and Composite Filling on Intrapulpal Temperature Increase in an In Vitro Tooth Model
Authors: Choi SH , Roulet JF , Heintze SD , Park SH
Published: April 2014

This study examined the effect of both the tooth substance and restorative filling materials on the increase in pulp chamber temperature when using light-curing units with different power densities.

The tip of a temperature sensor was positioned on the pulpal dentinal wall of the buccal side of a maxillary premolar. Metal tubes were inserted in the palatal and buccal root of the tooth, one for water inflow and the other for water outflow. Polyethylene tubes were connected from the metal tubes to a pump to control the flow rate. For the unprepared tooth group (group 1), the tooth was light-cured from the buccal side using two light-curing units (three curing modes): the VIP Junior (QTH, BISCO, Schaumburg, IL, USA) and the Bluephase LED light-curing units (two modes: LEDlow and LEDhigh; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein). The power densities of each light-curing unit for the LEDlow, QTH, and LEDhigh modes were 785 mW/cm2, 891 mW/cm2, and 1447 mW/cm2, respectively. All light-curing units were activated for 60 seconds. For the prepared tooth group (group 2), a Class V cavity, 4.0 mm in width by 4.0 mm in height by 1.8 mm in depth in size, was prepared on the buccal surface of the same tooth for the temperature measurement. The light-curing and temperature measurements were performed using the same methods used in group 1.

The cavity prepared in group 2 was filled with a resin composite (Tetric N Ceram A3 shade, Ivoclar Vivadent) (group 3) or a flowable composite (Tetric N Flow with A3 shade, Ivoclar Vivadent) (group 4). The light-curing and temperature measurements were performed for these groups using the same methods used for the other groups.

The highest intrapulpal temperature (TMAX) was measured, and a comparison was conducted between the groups using two-way analysis of variance with a post hoc Tukey test at the 95% confidence level.

The TMAX values were as follows: 38.4°C (group 1), 39.0°C (group 2), 39.8°C (group 3), and 40.3°C (group 4) for the LEDlow mode. For the QTH mode, the TMAX values were 40.1°C (group 1), 40.4°C (group 2), 40.9°C (group 3), and 41.4°C (group 4). For the LEDhigh mode, the TMAX values were 43.3°C (group 1), 44.5°C (group 2), 44.7°C (group 3), and 45.3°C (group 4). The statistical analysis revealed the following: the TMAX values were arranged by mode in the following manner: LEDlow < QTH < LEDhigh (p<0.05) and group 1 < group 2 ≤ group 3 ≤ group 4 (p<0.05).
A Comprehensive Laboratory Screening of Three-Step Etch-and-Rinse Adhesives
Authors: Loguercio AD , Luque-Martinez I , Muñoz MA , Szesz AL , Cuadros-Sánchez J , Reis A
Published: April 2014

Objectives

This study evaluated several bonding (microtensile bond strengths [μTBS], nanoleakage [NL], and in situ degree of conversion [ISDC] on dentin) and mechanical properties (ultimate tensile strength [UTS], degree of conversion [DC], water sorption [WS], and solubility [SL] in water) of four three-step etch-and-rinse adhesives in the short term.

Methods

A total of 28 molars were used in this study. The dentin surfaces were bonded with the following adhesives: All-Bond 3 (ALB3); Fusion Duralink (FSDL); Optibond FL (OBFL), and Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SBMP). After each adhesive-system application, composite resin build-ups were added. For bonding tests, specimens were sectioned in order to obtain bonded sticks. The sticks were divided to be tested for μTBS (0.5 mm/min), for NL (n=2), and ISDC (n=2). For NL, they were immersed in 50% silver nitrate and analyzed by scanning election microscopy. For ISDC, the hybrid layer was evaluated by micro-Raman spectroscopy. An hourglass-shaped matrix (UTS) or disk-shaped matrix (WS and SL) was filled with primer and adhesive (1:1 ratio) and light-polymerized. For UTS evaluation, the specimens were tested under tension. For WS and SL, specimens were desiccated and stored in distilled water to evaluate water diffusion kinetics over a 28-day period. The DC of the adhesives was evaluated by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. The data from each test were analyzed by appropriate statistical methods.

Results

OBFL resulted in the highest μTBS, lower NL, higher ISDC and DC, and higher UTS than other adhesives (p<0.05), as well as lower WS (similar to ALB3 and FSDL) and SL (similar to ALB3 and SBMP) (p>0.05). ALB3 showed a higher NL and the lowest DC value. FSDL showed the highest NL and SL and the lowest ISDC. SBMP showed the lowest pattern of WS (p<0.05).

Conclusion

OBFL showed the best results in all the properties evaluated, and it can be considered the gold standard of the three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive systems.
Two decades of successes and failures in controlling the transmission of HIV through injecting drug use in England and Wales, 1990 to 2011
Authors: Hope V D , Harris R J , De Angelis D , Croxford S , Marongiu A , Parry J V , Ncube F
Published: April 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Acquisition of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae by healthy travellers to India, France, February 2012 to March 2013
Authors: Ruppé E , Armand-Lefèvre L , Estellat C , El-Mniai A , Boussadia Y , Consigny P H , Girard P M , Vittecoq D , Bouchaud O , Pialoux G , Esposito-Farèse M , Coignard B , Lucet J C , Andremont A , Matheron S
Published: April 2014

Healthy travellers to countries where carbapenemases-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) are endemic might be at risk for their acquisition, even without contact with the local healthcare system. Here, we report the acquisition of CPE (two OXA-181, one New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase 1 (NDM-1)) in three healthy travellers returning from India. The duration of CPE intestinal carriage was less than one month. The results indicate that healthy travellers recently returning from India might be considered as at risk for CPE carriage.
Chemical and Microbiological Comparison between Sun and Spray-dried Whey
Authors: Ismail Ahmed A , Abdelgadir Warda S , Abogroon Hamza A
Published: April 2014

Whey is a nutritious by product from cheese processing containing valuable nutrients like proteins, minerals, lactose and vitamins. Acceleration of regulation for preventing disposal of whey for its nutritious value started since late 20th century and the nutritional and functional values of its proteins are now well known. This study was conducted at the Food Research Center, Sudan, to compare between the microbiological and chemical quality of sun and spray- dried whey. The results revealed significant differences (p<0.05) in moisture, ash, pH and solubility between the two samples, but no significant differences were observed in the values of protein and fat content. Microbiologically, the spray and sun dried whey were salmonella free and no yeast, moulds, spore-formers or coliforms were detected. Results also showed a significant difference (p<0.05) in total bacterial count between the two samples.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v8i1.8105
“Well, Melody, what is your skirt gonna turn into now?”: An Interview with Melody Mangler
Authors: Ortner Ines
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

Melody Mangler is a highly acclaimed burlesque performer, teacher, costumer, and writer from Vancouver. In 2009, the Burlesque Hall of Fame recognized her talents with the “Best Debut” Award for her outstanding performance piece Venus in Spring. As a founding member of the Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society and their current artistic director, she contributes significantly to the Vancouver burlesque scene.

This interview centres on the role costumes play in Melody Mangler’s performance process from their inspiration to their construction, and as a stage partner. The conversation covers various aspects of costume design: the historical burlesque, the connotation of fashion-before-function, the ingenuity required during the building process, and the technical complexity in the creation and play all burlesque costumes involve.

Mangler also speaks to the creative adjustments of conventions, the inherited satirical characteristic of the neo-burlesque as well as the significance of sex-positivity and body-positivity.
Backwoods Burlesque: Off-the-Grid Tsk Tsk
Authors: Preece Bronwyn
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

The Tsk Tsk Revue has become an annual one-night event—perhaps now more accurately described as a phenomenon—in the 350-peopled, entirely off-the-grid island of Lasqueti, BC, developing into a Gulf islands’ touring show. Teeming with brazen backwoods humour and localized, alternatively-powered erotics, the Tsk Tsk Revue has rightfully earned a unique place on the national burlesque scene. The show spins both the term sexy and the status quo on their heads, highlighting the often-absurd moments of choosing to live off-the-grid and translating the many challenges that face the islanders into comedic fodder. Staging innovative low-tech stage tropes, costumes, and black light burlesque through a series of vignettes strung together by the colourful commentary of the show’s creator and hostess, Jenny Vester, the Tsk Tsk Revue continually pushes the limits and tests one remote little island’s limits.
Neo-Burlesque and the Resurgence of Roller Derby: Empowerment, Play, and Community
Authors: Owen David
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

In both neo-burlesque and roller derby, there is a two-way communication between the audience (both male and female) and the performers/athletes that celebrates what the women (and sometimes men) on stage and on the track are doing. Using interviews with several burlesque performers and derby players, I demonstrate that there is a sense of community at both events between performers and audience, and that the art form of burlesque is not about monetary gain or exclusively for the pleasure of men. The burlesque performer is continually in communication with the audience through eye contact, performer-initiated physical contact, and invited audible response. I draw a parallel to roller derby as another outlet for women to express themselves outside of a traditional patriarchal frame for an audience of both women and men, paying particular attention to the acceptance of a wide range of body types, the creation of community, and a celebration of strength and skill not usually associated with women.
Extinguishing the “Temptation of Monetary Inducements”: The State Regulation and Stigmatization of Adult Entertainment Recruiters on Post-secondary Campuses in British Columbia
Authors: Ross Becki , Gómez-Ramírez Oralia
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

In this article, we explore the directive issued in August 2012 by the Minister of Advanced Education in British Columbia to ban “aggressive” adult entertainment recruiters from campus job fairs. We argue that the Liberal minister’s move to differentiate “appropriate” and “safe” employment from the purportedly perilous behaviour intrinsic to “exotic dancing” deflects attention from the economic crisis facing most post-secondary students. We contend that exotic dancing is being used as a convenient scapegoat, a bottomless container for fear and anxiety eminently exploitable in the service of moral governance masquerading as state advocacy. Some students already work in the sex industry, including the world of commercial burlesque. The minister’s message to university and college presidents in British Columbia reads as a cynical, desperate ploy a) to exploit fear for political gain, and b) to obfuscate the grave, deepening crush of debt shouldered by post-secondary students.
Re-Vamping History: Neo-Burlesque and Historical Tradition
Authors: Butler Alexis
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

Considering two performance trajectories that have emerged from the varied dramaturgical history of the burlesque genre, epitomized by superstar Dita Von Teese and by the Toronto collective The Scandelles, this article demonstrates how neo-burlesque can usefully be divided into that which approaches burlesque as a noun and that which deploys it as a verb. Where Von Teese’s recreationist approach relies on, and reifies, notions of “the historical” to contain and contextualize her act as more tasteful than contemporary stripping, The Scandelles’ active burlesquing, which relies on irony, camp, and social criticism, calls the very essence of such monolithic narratives into question. Ironically, while the performance of The Scandelles has often been considered to be more akin to the “avant-garde” than to the neo-burlesque, I will show that it is, in fact, strikingly similar to the earliest, and least contemporarily familiar, years of North American burlesque.
Neon Nightz
Authors: Tigchelaar Alexandra
Published: April 2014

Abstract:

Neon Nightz examines paradoxical notions of worship and intimacy in the sacred yet profane places in which we explore the ideologically linked emotions of desire and shame. It asks the question, is the strip club so different from the holy confession? When oppression, rather than necessity, is viewed as the mother of invention, what do people invent to subvert its tyranny?

It brings together female archetypes that are simultaneously revered and reviled and exposes the myths used to typecast women and the modern applications of religious allegory. It reveals what happens when The Virgin meets The Whore without interference of the masculine saviours who both contrive and condemn them. What happens when the whore speaks for herself, refuting what Louis Althusser would deem the imaginary relationships forced on the real conditions of her existence? If we took this concept, and refused to present it through coy symbolism but insisted on an application where “whored” bodies were also front and centre, we would have to see these spaces for all their complexities.
High-activity of Pd catalyst supported on antimony tin oxide for hydrogen peroxide electroreduction
Authors: Sun Limei , Liu Zongrui , Bao Yingrong , Li Hongxia , Bao Wuyunga
Published: April 2014

Pd electrocatalysts supported on antimony tin oxide and Vulcan XC-72 were both synthesized via a modified sodium borohydride reduction method. The catalysts were characterized by means of powder X-ray diffraction and cyclic voltammetry. Linear sweep voltammetry, open circuit potential curves and chronoamperometry were employed to evaluate the activities of the catalysts. The results show the particle size of Pd in the Pd electrocatalysts supported on antimony tin oxide catalyst is about 2.5 nm, which is smaller than that of the Pd electrocatalysts supported on Vulcan XC-72 (about 6.3 nm), and the surface area of the Pd electrocatalysts supported on antimony tin oxide electrode is larger than that of the Pd electrocatalysts supported on Vulcan XC-72 electrode. The Pd catalyst supported on antimony tin oxide shows superior performance to the catalyst supported on Vulcan XC-72.
Development of carbide intermetallic layer by electric discharge alloying on AISI-D2 tool steel and its wear resistance
Authors: Arun Ilangovan , Vaishnavi P. , Duraiselvam Muthukannan , Senthilkumar V. , Anandakrishnan V.
Published: April 2014

Electrical discharge alloying was performed on AISI-D2 steel using Ni–W powder mixed dielectric in order to improve the hardness and to reduce the specific wear rate. The alloyed layer was characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Wear tests were conducted based on L9 orthogonal array in a pin-on-disc tribometer and the alloying parameters were optimized using Taguchi's technique. Hard intermetallics based on Fe7C3, Cr3C2 and Ni2W4C were formed by electric discharge alloying, which primarily contributed to the improvement in hardness up to 600 HV0.5. The specific wear rate of the alloyed layer was subsequently reduced by around a factor of eight compared to that of the base material. The pulse off-time was found to be predominant in obtaining higher hardness and lower specific wear rate among the alloying parameters, peak current, pulse on-time and off-time.
Maternal Anemia and its Correlation with Iron status of Newborn
Authors: Akhter P , Momen MA , Rahman N , Rahman S , Karim R , Selim S , Rahman MA
Published: April 2014

Aim: To investigate the correlation of maternal blood Hb level and iron stores with neonatal iron status. Methods: A cross sectional analytic study on was conducted on fifty hospitalized pregnant women and their neonates over one year in a teaching hospital in the capital city of Bangladesh. Paired samples (50) of maternal venous and neonatal Women who had no medical complications and had undergone caesarian section were included. Maternal serum and cord hemoglobin concentrations with ferritin values were measured immediately after delivery. Placental weight, birth weight and APGAR scores were recorded. Result: The study involved 50 participants, randomly selected, of whom 10 had normal iron status and others had mild to severe anemia. Our study found no significant correlation of maternal Hb and cord Hb levels. But maternal serum ferritin showed positive correlation with cord ferritin (r=0.94; P<0.001) and with placental weight (r=0.40; p<0.001). Conclusion: Maternal iron deficiency anaemia was strongly associated with lower iron status of newborn DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v4i1.18550 Birdem Med J 2014; 4(1): 27-32
Evidence Based Diagnostic Approach to Tubal Factor Infertility
Authors: Khanum S , Ahmed JU , Rahim MA , Sultana N , Begum R
Published: April 2014

Infertility has been classified with respect to a number of parameters; prominent amongst which are time, causes, treatment cost and socio-cultural implications. The most widely accepted practical classification distinguishes between primary and secondary infertilities with a further sub classification into 3 clearly defined groups that include ovulatory dysfunction, fallopian tube compromise and male factor alongside an ambiguous and controversial group labeled as unexplained infertility. In infertility work-up various procedures can be carried out in isolation or in different combination, depending on the indication. Other complimentary procedures can be done when specifically required. So, with infertility in general the diagnosis of tubal infertility should be tailored to the individual patient. Here is a review on an evidence based approach to diagnose the tubal factors for infertility. Purpose of review: The investigation for potential tubal disease is an essential step in the work-up of infertility. This review article will provide an overview of evidence based diagnosis of tubal factor infertility. The different diagnostic tools will be described together with discussion of different minimal access surgical approaches. We intend to highlight the capital and central role of minimal access procedures playing in the diagnosis of tubal infertility as well as to demonstrate the positive impact it has in the fight against infertility; thus redefining the classification and pathology. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v4i1.18551 Birdem Med J 2014; 4(1): 33-37
A Ruptured Cornual Ectopic Pregnancy at 17 Weeks Gestation: A Case Report
Authors: Khan MI , Nyeer R , Laila R , Jahan S
Published: April 2014

Cornual pregnancy is a specific variety of ectopic gestation which occurs in the rudimentary horn of the uterus. It often rupture later than other tubal pregnancies because the myometrium is more distensible than the fallopian tube. Traditionally, the treatment is cornual resection (removal of rudimentary horn) or hysterectomy where the pedicle is short and the attachment is wide. Here, we report a case where cornual pregnancy was diagnosed at 17 weeks of gestation after uterine rupture and profound haemorrhage. The patient underwent laparotomy followed by cornual resection with salpingectomy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v4i1.18558 Birdem Med J 2014; 4(1): 50-51
Foot Drop due to Central cause  A Case Report on Bilateral Parasagittal Meningioma
Authors: Habib R , Mizan SB , Rahman A , Bhowmik NB , Haque A
Published: April 2014

Most clinicians consider a peripheral nerve lesion in patients with drop foot. However, causes stemming from the central nervous system represent rare, important, and underappreciated differential etiologies. Central causative lesions usually occur at locations where pyramidal tract connections are condensed and specific and the function is somatotopically organized. Here we report case presenting as central foot drop or spastic foot-drop and other myriad clinical features which after investigations was found due to bilateral parasagittal meningiomas. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v4i1.18559 Birdem Med J 2014; 4(1): 52-55
Medical Quiz: Images
Authors: Ahmed JU , Afroze SR
Published: April 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v4i1.18560 Birdem Med J 2014; 4(1): 56
Sensitivity of a Remote Alpine System to the Stockholm and LRTAP Regulations in POP Emissions
Authors: Van Drooge Barend , Garriga Guillem , Koinig Karin , Psenner Roland , Pechan Paul , Grimalt Joan
Published: April 2014

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) have been restricted and prohibited at national level for several decades now and since the 21st century at international level under the Stockholm Convention and the Convention of Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP). A high mountain lake sediment core was sampled in the Alps (Gossenköllesee) in summer 2010 and analyzed on POPs to examine whether the expected decreasing trends due to the implementation of the international Conventions could be observed. Higher POPs concentrations were observed in the sections corresponding to the period of large scale production and usage. p,p’-DDE and p,p’-DDD showed maximum concentrations in the core sections corresponding to the 1970s. These concentrations decreased to more or less constant levels in the top sediments, which is in agreement with the timing of past usage and banning of this pesticide. On the other hand, PCBs and HCB peaked in 1980s and the concentrations fluctuated afterwards. These observed profiles suggest that the studied site is still under influence of primary or secondary emissions and that the regulations of the international Conventions have still not been noticed in this site.
Screening for Antifibrotic Compounds Using High Throughput System Based on Fluorescence Polarization
Authors: Stefanovic Branko , Stefanovic Lela
Published: April 2014

Fibroproliferative diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. They are characterized by reactive fibrosis caused by uncontrolled synthesis of type I collagen. There is no cure for fibrosis and development of therapeutics that can inhibit collagen synthesis is urgently needed. Collagen α1(I) mRNA and α2(I) mRNA encode for type I collagen and they have a unique 5' stem-loop structure in their 5' untranslated regions (5'SL). Collagen 5'SL binds protein LARP6 with high affinity and specificity. The interaction between LARP6 and the 5'SL is critical for biosynthesis of type I collagen and development of fibrosis in vivo. Therefore, this interaction represents is an ideal target to develop antifibrotic drugs. A high throughput system to screen for chemical compounds that can dissociate LARP6 from 5'SL has been developed. It is based on fluorescence polarization and can be adapted to screen for inhibitors of other protein-RNA interactions. Screening of 50,000 chemical compounds yielded a lead compound that can inhibit type I collagen synthesis at nanomolar concentrations. The development, characteristics, and critical appraisal of this assay are presented.
Comparative Pulmonary Toxicity of Two Ceria Nanoparticles with the Same Primary Size
Authors: Peng Lu , He Xiao , Zhang Peng , Zhang Jing , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Junzhe , Ma Yuhui , Ding Yayun , Wu Zhenqiang , Chai Zhifang , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: April 2014

Ceria nanoparticles (nano-ceria) have recently gained a wide range of applications, which might pose unwanted risks to both the environment and human health. The greatest potential for the environmental discharge of nano-ceria appears to be in their use as a diesel fuel additive. The present study was designed to explore the pulmonary toxicity of nano-ceria in mice after a single exposure via intratracheal instillation. Two types of nano-ceria with the same distribution of a primary size (3–5 nm), but different redox activity, were used: Ceria-p, synthesized by a precipitation route, and Ceria-h, synthesized by a hydrothermal route. Both Ceria-p and Ceria-h induced oxidative stress, inflammatory responses and cytotoxicity in mice, but their toxicological profiles were quite different. The mean size of Ceria-p agglomerates was much smaller compared to Ceria-h, thereby causing a more potent acute inflammation, due to their higher number concentration of agglomerates and higher deposition rate in the deep lung. Ceria-h had a higher reactivity to catalyzing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and caused two waves of lung injury: bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) inflammation and cytotoxicity in the early stage and redox-activity-evoked lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammation in the latter stage. Therefore, the size distribution of ceria-containing agglomerates in the exhaust, as well as their surface chemistry are essential characteristics to assess the potential risks of using nano-ceria as a fuel additive.
An Algebraic Theory of Information: An Introduction and Survey
Authors: Kohlas Juerg , Schmid Juerg
Published: April 2014

This review examines some particular, but important and basic aspects of information: Information is related to questions and should provide at least partial answers. Information comes in pieces, and it should be possible to aggregate these pieces. Finally, it should be possible to extract that part of a piece of information which relates to a given question. Modeling these concepts leads to an algebraic theory of information. This theory centers around two different but closely related types of information algebras, each containing operations for aggregation or combination of information and for extracting information relevant to a given question. Generic constructions of instances of such algebras are presented. In particular, the close connection of information algebras to logic and domain theory will be exhibited.
Interaction and UV-Stability of Various Organic Capping Agents on the Surface of Anatase Nanoparticles
Authors: Raza Mohsin , Bachinger Angelika , Zahn Nina , Kickelbick Guido
Published: April 2014

Anatase nanoparticles synthesized by the sol-gel method were surface-functionalized with long alkyl chain coupling agents as compatibilizers for a nonpolar environment, containing different anchor groups for surface interaction namely phosphonate (dodecyl phosphonate), carboxylate (dodecanoic acid), sulfate (sodium dodecyl sulphate), and amine (dodecyl amine). It was shown that the surface of the nanoparticles can be functionalized with the various surface groups applying similar reaction conditions. The kind of surface interaction was analyzed applying FTIR spectroscopy. The phosphonate and the carboxylate groups interact with the surface via quite strong covalent or coordinative interactions, respectively. The sulfate and amine based coupling agents on the other hand exhibit electrostatic interactions. UV stability studies of the surface bound groups revealed different degradation mechanisms for the various functionalities and moreover showed that phosphonates are the most stable among the investigated surface capping groups.
Briarane Diterpenoids Isolated from Gorgonian Corals between 2011 and 2013
Authors: Sheu Jyh-Horng , Chen Yung-Husan , Chen Yu-Hsin , Su Yin-Di , Chang Yu-Chia , Su Jui-Hsin , Weng Ching-Feng , Lee Chia-Hung , Fang Lee-Shing , Wang Wei-Hsien , Wen Zhi-Hong , Wu Yang-Chang , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: April 2014

The structures, names, bioactivities and references of 138 briarane-type diterpenoids, including 87 new compounds, are summarized in this review. All the briarane-type compounds mentioned in this review article were obtained from gorgonian corals including the genus Briareum, Dichotella, Junceella and Verrucella. Some of these compounds showed potential bioactivities.
Pelagia noctiluca (Scyphozoa) Crude Venom Injection Elicits Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Rats
Authors: Bruschetta Giuseppe , Impellizzeri Daniela , Morabito Rossana , Marino Angela , Ahmad Akbar , Spanò Nunziacarla , Spada Giuseppa , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Esposito Emanuela
Published: April 2014

Cnidarian toxins represent a rich source of biologically active compounds. Since they may act via oxidative stress events, the aim of the present study was to verify whether crude venom, extracted from the jellyfish Pelagia noctiluca, elicits inflammation and oxidative stress processes, known to be mediated by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production, in rats. In a first set of experiments, the animals were injected with crude venom (at three different doses 6, 30 and 60 µg/kg, suspended in saline solution, i.v.) to test the mortality and possible blood pressure changes. In a second set of experiments, to confirm that Pelagia noctiluca crude venom enhances ROS formation and may contribute to the pathophysiology of inflammation, crude venom-injected animals (30 µg/kg) were also treated with tempol, a powerful antioxidant (100 mg/kg i.p., 30 and 60 min after crude venom). Administration of tempol after crude venom challenge, caused a significant reduction of each parameter related to inflammation. The potential effect of Pelagia noctiluca crude venom in the systemic inflammation process has been here demonstrated, adding novel information about its biological activity.
Diavik Waste Rock Project: Evolution of Mineral Weathering, Element Release, and Acid Generation and Neutralization during a Five-Year Humidity Cell Experiment
Authors: Langman Jeff , Moore Mandy , Ptacek Carol , Smith Leslie , Sego David , Blowes David
Published: April 2014

A five-year, humidity-cell experiment was used to study the weathering evolution of a low-sulfide, granitic waste rock at 5 and 22 °C. Only the rock with the highest sulfide content (0.16 wt %) released sufficient acid to overcome a limited carbonate acid-neutralization capacity and produce a substantial decline in pH. Leached SO4 and Ca quickly increased then decreased during the first two years of weathering. Sulfide oxidation continued to release acid and SO4 after carbonate depletion, resulting in an increase in acid-soluble elements, including Cu and Zn. With the dissolution of Al-bearing minerals, the pH stabilized above 4, and sulfide oxidation continued to decline until the end of the experiment. The variation in activation energy of sulfide oxidation correlates with changes in sulfide availability, where the lowest activation energies occurred during the largest releases of SO4. A decrease in sulfide availability was attributed to consumption of sulfide and weathered rims on sulfide grains that reduced the oxidation rate. Varying element release rates due to changing carbonate and sulfide availability provide identifiable geochemical conditions that can be viewed as neutralization sequences and may be extrapolated to the field site for examining the evolution of mineral weathering of the waste rock.
Studies on the Bioactive Flavonoids Isolated from Pithecellobium clypearia Benth
Authors: Kang Jie , Liu Chao , Wang Hongqing , Li Baoming , Li Chao , Chen Ruoyun , Liu Ailin
Published: April 2014

One new flavonoid named (2R,3R)-7-O-galloylplumbocatechin A (1) and three known flavonoids, (−)-5,3',4',5'-tetrahydroxyflavan-7-gallate (2), (+)-3,5,3',4',5'-penta-hydroxyflavan-7-gallate (3), and (−)-7,4'-di-O-galloyltricetiflavan (4), were isolated from Pithecellobium clypearia Benth. Their structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic analysis, including homonuclear and heteronuclear correlation NMR (HSQC and HMBC) experiments. In vitro assays, compounds 1 and 2 showed moderate inhibitory effects against influenza H1N1 virus neuraminidase (NA). Compounds 1–4 were all found to inhibit the expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 or MCP-1 induced by influenza H1N1 virus in human A549 lung carcinoma cells.
Inhibition and Biochemical Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Shikimate Dehydrogenase: An in Silico and Kinetic Study
Authors: Avitia-Domínguez Claudia , Sierra-Campos Erick , Salas-Pacheco José , Nájera Hugo , Rojo-Domínguez Arturo , Cisneros-Martínez Jorge , Téllez-Valencia Alfredo
Published: April 2014

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus auerus (MRSA) strains are having a major impact worldwide, and due to their resistance to all β-lactams, an urgent need for new drugs is emerging. In this regard, the shikimate pathway is considered to be one of the metabolic features of bacteria and is absent in humans. Therefore enzymes involved in this route, such as shikimate dehydrogenase (SDH), are considered excellent targets for discovery of novel antibacterial drugs. In this study, the SDH from MRSA (SaSDH) was characterized. The results showed that the enzyme is a monomer with a molecular weight of 29 kDa, an optimum temperature of 65 °C, and a maximal pH range of 9–11 for its activity. Kinetic studies revealed that SDH showed Michaelis-Menten kinetics toward both substrates (shikimate and NADP+). Initial velocity analysis suggested that SaSDH catalysis followed a sequential random mechanism. Additionally, a tridimensional model of SaSDH was obtained by homology modeling and validated. Through virtual screening three inhibitors of SaSDH were found (compounds 238, 766 and 894) and their inhibition constants and mechanism were obtained. Flexible docking studies revealed that these molecules make interactions with catalytic residues. The data of this study could serve as starting point in the search of new chemotherapeutic agents against MRSA.
Amino Acid Prodrugs: An Approach to Improve the Absorption of HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor, Lopinavir
Authors: Patel Mitesh , Mandava Nanda , Gokulgandhi Mitan , Pal Dhananjay , Mitra Ashim
Published: April 2014

Poor systemic concentrations of lopinavir (LPV) following oral administration occur due to high cellular efflux by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs) and extensive metabolism by CYP3A4 enzymes. In this study, amino acid prodrugs of LPV were designed and investigated for their potential to circumvent efflux processes and first pass effects. Three amino acid prodrugs were synthesized by conjugating isoleucine, tryptophan and methionine to LPV. Prodrug formation was confirmed by the LCMS/MS and NMR technique. Interaction of LPV prodrugs with efflux proteins were carried out in P-gp (MDCK-MDR1) and MRP2 (MDCK-MRP2) transfected cells. Aqueous solubility studies demonstrated that prodrugs generate higher solubility relative to LPV. Prodrugs displayed higher stability under acidic conditions and degraded significantly with rise in pH. Uptake and transport data suggested that prodrugs carry significantly lower affinity towards P-gp and MRP2 relative to LPV. Moreover, prodrugs exhibited higher liver microsomal stability relative to LPV. Hence, amino acid prodrug modification might be a viable approach for enhancing LPV absorption across intestinal epithelial and brain endothelial cells which expresses high levels of P-gp and MRP2.
Detection of Alteration Induced by Onshore Gas Seeps from ASTER and WorldView-2 Data
Authors: Salati Sanaz , Van Ruitenbeek Frank , Van der Meer Freek , Naimi Babak
Published: April 2014

Hydrocarbon seeps cause chemical and mineralogical changes at the surface, which can be detected by remote sensing. This paper aims at the detection of mineral alteration induced by gas seeps in a marly limestone formation, SW Iran. For this purpose, the multispectral Advance Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and the high spatial resolution WorldView-2 (WV-2) data were utilized for mapping surficial rock alteration. In addition, the potential of Visible Near Infrared (VNIR) bands of the WV-2 and its high spatial resolution for mapping alterations was determined. Band ratioing, principal component analysis (PCA), data fusion and the boosted regression trees (BRT) were applied to enhance and classify the altered and unaltered marly limestone formation. The alteration zones were identified and mapped by remote sensing analyses. Integrating the WV-2 into the ASTER data improved the spatial accuracy of the BRT classifications. The results showed that the BRT classification of the multiple band imagery (created from ASTER and WV-2) using regions of interest (ROIs) around field data provides the best discrimination between altered and unaltered areas. It is suggested that the WV-2 dataset can provide a potential tool along higher spectral resolution data for mapping alteration minerals related to hydrocarbon seeps in arid and semi-arid areas.
Forest Canopy Heights in the Pacific Northwest Based on InSAR Phase Discontinuities across Short Spatial Scales
Authors: Prush Veronica , Lohman Rowena
Published: April 2014

Rapid land use changes are substantially altering the global carbon budget, yet quantifying the impact of these changes, or assessing efforts to mitigate them, remains challenging. Methods for assessing forest carbon range from precise ground surveys to remote-sensing approaches that provide proxies for canopy height and structure. We introduce a method for extracting a proxy for canopy heights from Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data. Our method focuses on short-spatial scale differences between forested and cleared regions, reducing the impact of errors from variations in atmospheric water vapor or satellite orbital positions. We generate time-varying, Landsat-based maps of land use and perform our analysis on the original wrapped (modulo-2π) data to avoid errors introduce by phase unwrapping and to allow assessment of the confidence of our results (within 3–4 m in many cases). We apply our approach to the Pacific Northwest, which contains some of the world’s tallest trees and has experienced extensive clearcutting. We use SAR imagery acquired at L-band by the PALSAR instrument on the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Advanced Land Observation Satellite (ALOS). As SAR data archives expand, our approach can complement other remote-sensing methods and allow time-variable assessment of forest carbon budgets worldwide.