bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enumeration of Total and Faecal Coliform Bacteria in Drinking Water of Khairpur City
Authors: Shar Abdul Hussain , Kazi Yasmeen F , Zardari Miandad , Soomro Irshad Hussain
Published: December 2011

Total coliform (TC) and faecal coliform (FC) bacteria were analyzed in drinking water of Khairpur city. Ninty samples were collected from main reservoir (source), distribution line and consumer taps. pH and residual chlorine of water samples were also determined. For bacteriological analysis inductively membrane filtration (MF) method was used for total coliform (TC) as well as faecal (FC) coliform bacteria. All samples were found contaminated with total coliform (TC) and faecal coliform (FC) and the counts were higher than the maximum microbial contaminant level (MMCL) established by World Health Organization (WHO). It was observed that pH was within the limits of WHO standard (6.5-8.5). The residual chlorine was not detected in any sample of drinking water. Bacteriologically the water quality of the drinking water is unsatisfactory.Keywords: Coliform, Escherichia coli, Water quality, Contamination, SanitationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1266
Assessment of Microbiological Quality of Processed Fruit Juice
Authors: Basar M Abdul , Rahman Sabita Rezwana
Published: December 2011

The present study was performed to evaluate the microbiological quality of industrially processed packed juices such as mango, orange and lemon of five different local companies. Aerobic plate count (APC) in juice samples was nil when measured before and after neutralization of pH. However, after enrichment of couple of samples growth of bacteria was observed on nutrient agar and MacConkey agar media. Sample A showed 120 cfu/ml after 3 h on nutrient agar and 20 cfu/ml after 5 h on MacConkey agar medium. These findings indicate that manufacturers might use high amount of preservatives that had bacteriostatic effect on microbes. It can be suggested that processed juices should be prepared under hygienic condition without use of high amount of preservatives that might cause health hazard.Keywords: Fruit juice, Bacterial count, Preservatives, EnrichmentDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i2.1267
Stroma-Directed Molecular Targeted Therapy in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kitadai Yasuhiko , Kodama Michiyo , Shinagawa Kei
Published: December 2011

Recent studies in molecular and cellular biology have shown that tumor growth and metastasis are not determined by cancer cells alone, but also by a variety of stromal cells. Tumor stroma contains abundant extracellular matrix and several types of cells, including carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), endothelial cells, pericytes and inflammatory cells including macrophages. In gastric cancer tissues, tumor cells express platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B. Stromal cells, including CAFs, pericytes and lymphatic endothelial cells, express PDGF receptor (PDGFR)-β. Administration of PDGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor significantly decreases stromal reaction, lymphatic vessel area and pericyte coverage of tumor microvessels. Administration of PDGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapeutic drug(s) impairs the progressive growth and metastasis of gastric cancer. Activated stroma might serve as a novel therapeutic target in cases of gastric cancer.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of 1-(3-Fluorophenyl)-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one
Authors: Saeed Aamer , Flörke Ulrich
Published: December 2011

The base catalyzed intramolecular nucleophilic cyclization of 1-(2-bromobenzoyl)-3-(2-fluorophenyl)thiourea (1) in the presence of N,N-dimethyl formamide (DMF) afforded the 1-(3-fluorophenyl)-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one (2) by an intramolecular nucleophilic substitution SNAr mechanism. The structure was supported by the spectroscopic data and unambiguously confirmed by the single crystal X-ray diffraction data. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P na21 with unit cell dimensions a = 22.430(4), b = 8.1478(16), c = 13.522(3) Å, V = 2471.2(9) Å3. There are two independent molecules per asymmetric unit that are linked to centrosymmetric AB-dimers via intermolecular N-H…S bonds.
Comparison of Extremum-Seeking Control Techniques for Maximum Power Point Tracking in Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Yau Her-Terng , Wu Chen-Han
Published: December 2011

Due to Japan’s recent nuclear crisis and petroleum price hikes, the search for renewable energy sources has become an issue of immediate concern. A promising candidate attracting much global attention is solar energy, as it is green and also inexhaustible. A maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller is employed in such a way that the output power provided by a photovoltaic (PV) system is boosted to its maximum level. However, in the context of abrupt changes in irradiance, conventional MPPT controller approaches suffer from insufficient robustness against ambient variation, inferior transient response and a loss of output power as a consequence of the long duration required of tracking procedures. Accordingly, in this work the maximum power point tracking is carried out successfully using a sliding mode extremum-seeking control (SMESC) method, and the tracking performances of three controllers are compared by simulations, that is, an extremum-seeking controller, a sinusoidal extremum-seeking controller and a sliding mode extremum-seeking controller. Being able to track the maximum power point promptly in the case of an abrupt change in irradiance, the SMESC approach is proven by simulations to be superior in terms of system dynamic and steady state responses, and an excellent robustness along with system stability is demonstrated as well.
Resilience to the Health Risks of Extreme Weather Events in a Changing Climate in the United States
Authors: Ebi Kristie L.
Published: December 2011

Current public health strategies, policies, and measures are being modified to enhance current health protection to climate-sensitive health outcomes. These modifications are critical to decrease vulnerability to climate variability, but do not necessarily increase resilience to future (and different) weather patterns. Communities resilient to the health risks of climate change anticipate risks; reduce vulnerability to those risks; prepare for and respond quickly and effectively to threats; and recover faster, with increased capacity to prepare for and respond to the next threat. Increasing resilience includes top-down (e.g., strengthening and maintaining disaster risk management programs) and bottom-up (e.g., increasing social capital) measures, and focuses not only on the risks presented by climate change but also on the underlying socioeconomic, geographic, and other vulnerabilities that affect the extent and magnitude of impacts. Three examples are discussed of public health programs designed for other purposes that provide opportunities for increasing the capacity of communities to avoid, prepare for, and effectively respond to the health risks of extreme weather and climate events. Incorporating elements of adaptive management into public health practice, including a strong and explicit focus on iteratively managing risks, will increase effective management of climate change risks.
Swelling-Activated Anion Channels Are Essential for Volume Regulation of Mouse Thymocytes
Authors: Kurbannazarova Ranokhon S. , Bessonova Svetlana V. , Okada Yasunobu , Sabirov Ravshan Z.
Published: December 2011

Channel-mediated trans-membrane chloride movement is a key process in the active cell volume regulation under osmotic stress in most cells. However, thymocytes were hypothesized to regulate their volume by activating a coupled K-Cl cotransport mechanism. Under the patch-clamp, we found that osmotic swelling activates two types of macroscopic anion conductance with different voltage-dependence and pharmacology. At the single-channel level, we identified two types of events: one corresponded to the maxi-anion channel, and the other one had characteristics of the volume-sensitive outwardly rectifying (VSOR) chloride channel of intermediate conductance. A VSOR inhibitor, phloretin, significantly suppressed both macroscopic VSOR-type conductance and single-channel activity of intermediate amplitude. The maxi-anion channel activity was largely suppressed by Gd3+ ions but not by phloretin. Surprisingly, [(dihydroindenyl)oxy] alkanoic acid (DIOA), a known antagonist of K-Cl cotransporter, was found to significantly suppress the activity of the VSOR-type single-channel events with no effect on the maxi-anion channels at 10 μM. The regulatory volume decrease (RVD) phase of cellular response to hypotonicity was mildly suppressed by Gd3+ ions and was completely abolished by phloretin suggesting a major impact of the VSOR chloride channel and modulatory role of the maxi-anion channel. The inhibitory effect of DIOA was also strong, and, most likely, it occurred via blocking the VSOR Cl− channels.
Effect of Tween Series on Growth and cis-9, trans-11 Conjugated Linoleic Acid Production of Lactobacillus acidophilus F0221 in the Presence of Bile Salts
Authors: Li Jing-Yan , Zhang Lan-Wei , Du Ming , Han Xue , Yi Hua-Xi , Guo Chun-Feng , Zhang Ying-Chun , Luo Xue , Zhang Yan-He , Shan Yu-Juan , Hou Ai-Ju
Published: December 2011

Cis-9, trans-11 conjugated linoleic acid (c9, t11 CLA) producing bacteria have attracted much attention as novel probiotics which have shown beneficial effects on host health. However, bile salts are able to inhibit bacterial growth and c9, t11 CLA production. For recovering growth and c9, t11 CLA production of Lactobacillus acidophilus F0221 in the presence of bile salts, Tween series (Tween 20, Tween 40, Tween 60 and Tween 80) were added in growth culture containing 0.3% oxgall. Results showed that the viable counts were significantly (P < 0.05) recovered to 8.58–8.75 log CFU/mL in the presence of all Tween treatments. However, recovery of c9, t11 CLA production was only demonstrated in the presence of Tween 80 (72.89 μg/mL). Stepwise increasing oxgall in a concentrations range from 0.1% to 0.9% according to human intestinal physiological environments, Tween 80 still showed significant (P < 0.05) recovery ability on growth (8.91–8.04 log CFU/mL) and c9, t11 CLA (69.22–34.27 μg/mL) production. The effect of Tween 80 on growth and production was also investigated in the presence of different types of bile salts (sodium salts of cholic acid (CA), deoxycholic acid (DCA), chendeoxycholic acid (CDCA), glycocholic acid (GCA) and taurocholic acid (TCA)). Results showed that Tween 80 could significantly (P < 0.05) recover c9, t11 CLA production in the presence of all types of bile salts, but the Tween 80 could only significantly (P < 0.05) recover viable counts of the strain in the presence of CA, DCA and CDCA. This recovery ability could be attributed to the protection of leakage of intracellular material. Additionally, although bile salts inhibited growth and c9, t11 CLA production by the growing cell, it promoted the c9, t11 CLA production by the resting cell.
Development of Silafluofen-Based Termiticides in Japan and Thailand
Authors: Katsuda Yoshio , Minamite Yoshihiro , Vongkaluang Charunee
Published: December 2011

With the advancement from natural pyrethrins to synthetic pyrethroids, their applications have expanded from household insecticides for indoor use against sanitary pests to outdoor use for agriculture, forestry, animal health, termite control, and many other pest situations. However, high fish toxicity and development of pyrethroid resistance in some pests have been cited as common shortcomings of pyrethroids. To overcome these pyrethroid problems such as high fish toxicity, Katsuda and fellow scientists invented silafluofen by introducing a silicone atom into the pyrethroidal chemical structure in 1984. In addition to the high insecticidal activity and low mammalian toxicity, this compound features low fish toxicity, chemical stability under sunlight, in the soil and under alkaline environments. These features make silafluofen unique among pyrethroids. In Japan, silafluofen has been used as an agricultural insecticide for 15 years since 1995 for various plants, especially useful for paddy rice protection because of its low fish toxicity. Over the last 20 years, silafluofen-based termiticides including emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and oil formulations have been widely used in Japan for soil treatment and timber treatments. Additional silafluofen product lines include anti-termitic plastic sheets which are laid under buildings. In this paper, literature on the development of silafluofen and its use in Japan are reviewed. On the other hand, in Thailand, we proceeded with development works of silafluofen-based termiticides from 2005 by starting laboratory efficacy tests and field efficacy tests in Phuket. Both laboratory and field tests showed good efficacy as a soil termiticide, suggesting that the material will perform well for commercial use in high biological hazard environments such as Thailand and can be used in environments close to water where fish toxicity might be a concern with other pyrethroids.
A Kinetic Study of Accumulation and Elimination of Microcystin-LR in Yellow Perch (Perca Flavescens) Tissue and Implications for Human Fish Consumption
Authors: Dyble Julianne , Gossiaux Duane , Landrum Peter , Kashian Donna R. , Pothoven Steven
Published: December 2011

Fish consumption is a potential route of human exposure to the hepatotoxic microcystins, especially in lakes and reservoirs that routinely experience significant toxic Microcystis blooms. Understanding the rates of uptake and elimination for microcystins as well as the transfer efficiency into tissues of consumers are important for determining the potential for microcystins to be transferred up the food web and for predicting potential human health impacts. The main objective of this work was to conduct laboratory experiments to investigate the kinetics of toxin accumulation in fish tissue. An oral route of exposure was employed in this study, in which juvenile yellow perch (Perca flavescens) were given a single oral dose of 5 or 20 μg of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) via food and accumulation in the muscle, liver, and tank water were measured over 24 h. Peak concentrations of the water soluble fraction of microcystin were generally observed 8–10 h after dosing in the liver and after 12–16 h in the muscle, with a rapid decline in both tissues by 24 h. Up to 99% of the total recoverable (i.e., unbound) microcystin was measured in the tank water by 16 h after exposure. The relatively rapid uptake and elimination of the unbound fraction of microcystin in the liver and muscle of juvenile yellow perch within 24 h of exposure indicates that fish consumption may not be a major route of human exposure to microcystin, particularly in the Great Lakes.
Pea Albumin 1 Subunit b (PA1b), a Promising Bioinsecticide of Plant Origin
Authors: Gressent Frédéric , Da Silva Pedro , Eyraud Vanessa , Karaki Lamis , Royer Corinne
Published: December 2011

PA1b (Pea Albumin 1, subunit b) is a peptide extract from pea seeds showing significant insecticidal activity against certain insects, such as cereal weevils (genus Sitophilus), the mosquitoes Culex pipiens and Aedes aegyptii, and certain species of aphids. PA1b has great potential for use on an industrial scale and for use in organic farming: it is extracted from a common plant; it is a peptide (and therefore suitable for transgenic applications); it can withstand many steps of extraction and purification without losing its activity; and it is present in a seed regularly consumed by humans and mammals without any known toxicity or allergenicity. The potential of this peptide to limit pest damage has stimulated research concerning its host range, its mechanism of action, its three-dimensional structure, the natural diversity of PA1b and its structure–function relationships.
Profibus Protocol in the Application of Intelligent Circuit Breaker
Authors: Wang Yi Jun , Liu Ya Xuan , Wang Xun
Published: December 2011

This article describes a solution of the Profibus-DP bus system of intelligent circuit breaker based on introduction of Profibus fieldbus. The design of hardware and software of intelligent slave station interface based on intelligent communication chip SPC3 was intrduced in detail, at the same time, master and slave station are combined adjusting. The experimental results proved that the system could be worked properly.
Circuit Modeling and Simulation Based on VHDL-AMS
Authors: Gao Jin , Duan Zhe Min
Published: December 2011

In the progress of product researching and developing, it is very necessary that the founding of virtual prototype. In the phase of circuit simulation, there is a big problem in system simulation, which is the absence of SPICE model of mixed- signal. While solving the problem, the self-making device model is very powerful to finish the 'Top-down' simulation by the advantage of VHDL-AMS language. To find the advantage of the VHDL-AMS language for analog system, this modeling method is also effective to describe the mixed-signal system's structure and action.
Electric Locomotive Variable Frequency Drive Device of Mine DC Lines
Authors: Ge Guang Jun , Li Yu Dong , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2011

This document presents a solution for controlling a permanent magnet synchronous motor(PMSM) for the coal mine of DC lines of electric locomotive using the Texas Instruments (TI) TMS320C2407A digital signal processor (DSP). The control method presented relies on the vector control technology and space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) technology, the control algorithm maintains efficiency in a wide range speed. This document describes the structure features of the converter, power electronics, the keyboard display and the auxiliary power supply, hardware implementation and software design. Experimental results show that the system has better static and dynamic performance, completely fits the DC lines of electric locomotive operation. This document describes a practical solution and corresponding result, and this research has been applied successfully in practical work.
Sliding Mode Control Design for Uncertain Singular Systems
Authors: Lin Kuo Jung
Published: December 2011

This paper addresses the problem of sliding mode control design and adaptive sliding mode control design for robust stabilization of uncertain singular systems with guaranteed control performance. Based on the Lyapunov stability theorem, we solve two sufficient conditions for stabilization of the uncertain singular systems. The proposed sliding mode controller and adaptive sliding mode controller can reduce the effect of uncertainty. An electrical system is given to illustrate the validity of the proposed scheme. Simulation result shown that the adaptive sliding mode control design is better than sliding mode control design case.
Effect of Rotating Electromagnetic Field on the Conductivity of Aqueous NaCl Solution
Authors: Li Nan , Chai Feng , Chen Lei , Cheng Shu Kang
Published: December 2011

Effect of rotating electromagnetic field on the conductivity of aqueous NaCl solution was investigated by experiments. NaCl solution was circulated at a constant flow rate in the flow loop with a rotating-electromagnetic generating device for a period of time. Then conductivity of NaCl solution was measured at different NaCl solution contractions and rotating electromagnetic fields. Simultaneously, the conductivity was determined for NaCl solution untreated magnetically, as a reference. It was found that the rotating electromagnetic field influenced conductivity of aqueous NaCl solution and made it increased. The mechanism of the effect of the rotating electromagnetic field on conductivity of NaCl solution was also discussed.
Removal of Strontium Ions from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption onto Sodium Trititanate Whisker
Authors: Zhang Zu Lei , Li Lei
Published: December 2011

Utilization of solid-phase extraction (SPE) to remove aqueous strontium ions by adsorption onto activated sodium trititanate whisker (STW) was investigated in this work under the conditions of various pH value, STW amount, shaken time and contact time by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The optimum conditions obtained were: pH value = 5.0, STW amount = 0.2 g, shaken time = 5 min and contact time of 3 h on the remove of 2 mg·L-1strontium(II). The adsorption of Sr(II) on activated STW follows pseudo-second order kinetics and the maximum adsorption capacity Q being 8.37 mg·g-1at 25°C. Finally, the detection limit (3σ) of 0.030 μg·mL-1with the relative standard deviation (RSD) for 1.0 μg·mL-1Sr(II) of 0.93 % (n=10) were obtained. Results showed that activated STW was a solid-phase extraction sorbent of efficient, low-cost, convenient adsorption of Sr(II) from aqueous solution and could be reused for five times with about 8.0%-9.0% regeneration loss.
Effect of Sr Addition on Microstructures of as-Cast Mg-5Sn-5Zn Alloy
Authors: Qiu Ke Qiang , Liu Bin , You Jun Hua
Published: December 2011

The microstructures and phase constituent of as-cast Mg-5Sn-5Zn-xSr (x=0, 0.5, 1, 2) alloys were analyzed by the optical microscopy (OM), the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results indicate that an addition of 0.5%-2% (mass fraction) Sr to the Mg-5Zn-5Sn alloy not only refines the dendrite arm spacing of -Mg but also results in the formation of MgSnSr phases. Furthermore, it was found that the increase of Sr results in Mg2Sn phase decreasing and MgSnSr phase increasing. While the MgZn phase which is attached with Mg2Sn phase exists in the form of -Mg+MgZn eutectic structure.
Effect of Different Compatibilizing Agents on the Compatibility of Lignin/LDPE Composites
Authors: Lv Xin Ying , Zhang Yan Hua , Di Ming Wei , Gao Zhen Hua
Published: December 2011

Lignin has been blended with low density polyethylene (LDPE). Maleic anhydride grafted high density polyethylene (HDPE-g-MAH) and Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) have been added as compatibilizing agent. The weight ratio of LDPE, ligin and HDPE-a-MAH were 75:25:7.5, 75:25:10 and 75:25:12.5; the weight ratio of LDPE, ligin and PP-a-MAH were 75:25:5, 75:25:7.5 and 75:25:10 respectively. The mechanical properties of the blends were investigated according to Chinese standard GB/1447-2005 and compared with those of lignin/LDPE composites without compatibilizing agent. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the dispersion of the lignin and PE and the compatibilizing mechanism was analyzed. The results reveal that addition of compatibilizing agent increased the interfacial bonding strength of the composites, improved the mechanical properties and obtained the better dispersion of the lignin and LDPE with HDPE-g-MAH as compatibilizing agent.
Synthesis of a Novel Intumescent Flame Retardant Oligomer and its Application in ABS Copolymer
Authors: Hu Xiao Ping , Guo Yu Yang , Xu Quan Min , Heng Hui Min , Li Liang Jun
Published: December 2011

A novel intumescent flame retardant oligomer containing phosphorous-nitrogen structure (PSPTR) was synthesized and characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Mass Spectrometry (MS). The thermal behavior of PSPTR was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The TGA data shows that PSPTR has a high initial temperature of thermal degradation and a high char residue of 41.18wt% at 700 . A novel intumescent ﬂame retardant (IFR) system, which is composed of PSPTR and novolac phenol (NP), was used to impart ﬂame retardancy of ABS. The combustion behaviors of the ABS/IFR composites were investigated by Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) and UL-94 tests. When the content of IFR (PSPTR:NP=1:1 mass ratio) is 30 wt%, the LOI value of ABS/IFR reaches 28.2, and the vertical burning test reaches UL-94 V-1 rating.
Synthesis of Li4Ti5O12 Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Sheng Lin , Zhao Xiu Juan , Ren Rui Ming
Published: December 2011

Li4Ti5O12 spinel-type anode materials were synthesized by high-energy ball milling and solid-state method using TiO2 (Anatase) and Li2CO3 as starting materials. The powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermo-gravimetric (TG)/differential scanning calorimetric (DSC). The results showed that Li4Ti5O12 in a single phase can be fabricated above 750 °C for 3h when the mixture powders were high-energy ball milled at 500r/m for 30min. The grain size was 0.3-0.5 m and particle size distribution was narrow.
Biomineralization of the Hydroxyapatite with 3D-Structure for Enamel Reconstruction
Authors: Tian Kun , Peng Min , Wu Ping , Liao Chu Hang , Huang Fa Yin
Published: December 2011

Tooth morphogenesis results from reciprocal interactions between oral epithelium and ectomesenchyme culminating in the formation of mineralized tissues, enamel, and dentin. Based on these basic theory, we design a organic molecules model to induced the crystallization of hydroxyapatite to synthesized tooth-like calcium phosphate/hydroxyapatite with 3D-structure in a controllable way in vitro. We observed that hydroxyapatite nanorods can be controlled followed by in situ phosphorylation process and triggered by conditions of pH and ionic strength. The results showed that he dentinal tubule were blocked by neonatal hydroxyapatite layer and this composite a continuous structure of columns crystal with size of 30-80nm. At the same time, XRD showed that the precipitation was calcium fluoride phosphate and Ca:P was 1.6. Furthermore, there were column crystal with parallel direction inside, as same as the crystal array in the top of enamel rod. The results suggest that collagen monolayer may be useful in the modulation of mineral behavior during in situ dental tissue engineering.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of Tb3+ Doped Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Lu Yi Hua , Xiao Xiu Feng , Zheng Xuan , Wu Shan Shan , Liu Rong Fang
Published: December 2011

Well-dispersed nanosized Tb3+ doped hydroxyapatite (Tb-HA) powder was synthesized by hydrothermal method using poly(diallyl dimethylammonium) chloride as template. The influence the doped amount of Tb3+ on the fluorescence performance of the samples were discussed. The results show that the hydroxyapatite become luminescent by the appropriate reaction conditions. The Tb3+ ions prefer to occupy the sites Ca(II) in hydroxyapatite crystal. With the increase of Tb3+ concentration, the luminescence intensity of Tb-HA reached a maximum at the content of 4 mol%.
Force Analysis of Inclined Asphalt Concrete Wall Rockfill Dam Structure
Authors: Han Li Xin
Published: December 2011

Through analyzing inclined asphalt concrete wall rockfill dam structure’s mechanical characteristics in construction process and operational process, this paper adopts finite element method to carry out simulation analysis for inclined asphalt concrete wall rockfill dam of Mobankeng reservoir. Deducing distribution law of the dam’s stress and displacement in construction process and operational process. Analysis results show that, inclined asphalt concrete wall rockfill dam of Mobankeng reservoir construction is reasonable, it meets the requirements for design.
Study on SOC Forecast Model in Regions of Hilly Purple Soil by Water Erosion
Authors: Guo Tian , He Bing Hui , Chen Jing Jing
Published: December 2011

The soil productive forces are mainly affected by soil erosion as soil nutrients and organic carbon are taken away. On the premise of analysis of the last 17 years’ data of rainfalls and vegetation coverage in Xiejiawan small watershed, the grey model was established to forecast and evaluate the losses of organic carbon caused by water erosion in the hilly area of purple soils. Moreover, according to comparison of four-dimensional, five-dimensional and six-dimensional model groups, we found that, six-dimensional GM (1,1) model was the best one, posterior-variance-test accuracy of which amounted to the first class, and maximum simulated relative error ,average simulated relative error and predicted relative error of which were respectively 43.26 % ,16.85% and -17.09%, besides, its simulation and prediction accuracy was also high. Furthermore, the accuracy of simulated forecast value was all satisfactory. So the SOC loss by water erosion in purple areas of Xiejiawan small watershed was simulated and predicted well by grey model, also the unique evolution patterns of changing organic carbon in purple soil by water erosion could be well described and explained by the grey model.
Radius Constraint Least-Square Circle Fitting Method
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Zhang Guo Hui , Xu Zhen
Published: December 2011

Short arc usually lost the most part of information in measurement, therefore the fitting center can not be found accurately. The shortage of least-square method is analyzed in short arc fitting. The uncertainty of fitting center direction and fitting radius is illustrated. And we derived the solution to estimation of fitting center direction. Base on the testing environment, radius constraint least-square fitting circle method is proposed. Simulations demonstrated excellent performance of this algorithm.
Design and Research of Cap Sorter Mechanism of PET Bottle Automatic Cap Screwing Machine
Authors: Zhao Mei Ning , Dong Miao Xin , Wang Fang
Published: December 2011

To improve the efficiency of PET bottle automatic capping machine and obtain a better usability for meeting the requirement of industrialization, a kind of cap sorter mechanism of Cap Screwing machine has been designed. The structure, working principle and working process of the mechanism was analyzed. The virtual model machine of cap sorter mechanism was established with the help of ADAMS software. The dynamic simulation and analysis of cap movement in cap sorter mechanism has been done, and optimization analysis of the factors which affected performance of the mechanism was also done. The optimization result was obtained through analysis of cap surface wear by using ANSYS software, which can provide theoretic foundation for the improvement and optimization of cap screwing machine.
Discussing the Measure of Improving Pyrex Glass ECDM Removal Rate
Authors: Tang Lin , Zhao Gang Gang
Published: December 2011

Electrochemical discharges machining (ECDM) is an unconventional technology able to machine several non-conductive materials like glass or some ceramics. ECDM technology remains an academic application and was never applied in industrial. The limit factors are highlighted. In order to improve removal rate (MRR) of Pyrex glass ECDM material and the surface quality, many promising measures such as ultrasonic vibration, abrasive, and side-insulated electrode are discussed.
FCM Clustering Segmentation Algorithms Based on Spatial Constraint
Authors: Tian Jun Wei , Yu Ya Lin , Shen Tao
Published: December 2011

In order to improve the performance of FCM clustering segmentation algorithm, a new spatial constrained FCM (SCFCM) algorithm is proposed. The new algorithm computes the membership degree of each pixel according to membership degrees of its neighbor pixels. For the purpose of enhance compute efficiency, two kinds of initial membership matrix creation algorithms are proposed to reduce iteration times. Experiments for a series of images are performed, according to the results, SCFCM clustering segmentation algorithm can restrain the noise effectively.
Bilateral hypoplasia of the internal carotid artery
Authors: Bhat Dhananjaya I , Somanna Sampath , Kovoor Jerry ME
Published: December 2011

Agenesis and hypoplasia of the internal carotid artery (ICA) are rare congenital anomalies, occurring in less than 0.01% of the population. We report a rare case of bilateral hypoplasia of the ICA in a patient with post-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. We describe the embryological development of the cerebral vasculature and present a review of literature.
Presacral hibernoma: Radiologic-pathologic correlation
Authors: Pandya Amit , Wasnik Ashish P
Published: December 2011

Hibernoma is a rare benign tumor of brown fat origin. It is found in locations where brown adipose tissue is present in the fetus. These locations include the neck, axilla, thorax, and extremities. Retroperitoneal hibernoma is an extremely rare site of presentation. We present a rare case of presacral hibernoma. Preoperative embolization of this highly vascular tumor was performed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a presacral hibernoma in the English literature.
Ultrasonography with color Doppler and power Doppler in the diagnosis of periapical lesions
Authors: Goel Sumit , Nagendrareddy Suma Gundareddy , Raju Manthena Srinivasa , Krishnojirao Dayashankara Rao Jingade , Rastogi Rajul , Mohan Ravi Prakash Sasankoti , Gupta Swati
Published: December 2011

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasonography (USG) with color Doppler and power Doppler applications over conventional radiography in the diagnosis of periapical lesions. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients having inflammatory periapical lesions of the maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth and requiring endodontic surgery were selected for inclusion in this study. All patients consented to participate in the study. We used conventional periapical radiographs as well as USG with color Doppler and power Doppler for the diagnosis of these lesions. Their diagnostic performances were compared against histopathologic examination. All data were compared and statistically analyzed. Results: USG examination with color Doppler and power Doppler identified 29 (19 cysts and 10 granulomas) of 30 periapical lesions accurately, with a sensitivity of 100% for cysts and 90.91% for granulomas and a specificity of 90.91% for cysts and 100% for granulomas. In comparison, conventional intraoral radiography identified only 21 lesions (sensitivity of 78.9% for cysts and 45.4% for granulomas and specificity of 45.4% for cysts and 78.9% for granulomas). There was definite correlation between the echotexture of the lesions and the histopathological features except in one case. Conclusions: USG imaging with color Doppler and power Doppler is superior to conventional intraoral radiographic methods for diagnosing the nature of periapical lesions in the anterior jaws. This study reveals the potential of USG examination in the study of other jaw lesions.
Case report: Periorbital intraosseous hemangiomas
Authors: Gonçalves Fabrício Guimarães , Rojas Juan Pablo Ovalle , Hanagandi Prasad Baladev , Valente Rodolfo , Torres Carlos Ignacio , Chankwosky Jeffrey , O′Donovan Raquel DelCardio
Published: December 2011

Hemangiomas are hamartomatous proliferation of vessels. Intraosseous hemangiomas of the facial bones are rare and most commonly involve the zygoma, maxilla, mandible, and the nasal bones. A "sunburst" pattern is a typical appearance on CT scan and MRI and therefore a biopsy is not always necessary. Surgery is usually performed in symptomatic cases. The authors describe five typical periorbital intraosseous hemangiomas with a brief review of literature.
Differential diagnosis of breast lesions using ultrasound elastography
Authors: Gheonea Ioana Andreea , Stoica Zoia , Bondari Simona
Published: December 2011

Context: The recent introduction of elastography has increased the specificity of USG and enabled early diagnosis of breast cancer. Quantitative elastography, especially with strain ratio (SR) index, improves diagnostic accuracy and decreased number of biopsies. Aims: The purpose of this study was to assess the role of USG elastography in the differential diagnosis of breast lesions. Settings and Design: This prospective study was conducted in the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Research Centre of Craiova. Materials and Methods: Fifty-eight patients diagnosed with breast lesions between January 2009 and January 2010 were included in this prospective study. All the patients were examined in the supine position, and the B-mode USG image was displayed alongside the elastography strain image. For obtaining the elastography images we used a EUS Hitachi EUB 8500 ultrasound system with a 6.5-MHz linear probe. The elastography strain images were scored according to the Tsukuba elasticity score. Statistical Analysis: We performed receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis for assessment of the role of USG elastography in the diagnosis of breast lesions. Results: We obtained a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 92.9% for elasticity score and a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 92.9% for SR (when a cutoff point of 3.67 was used). There was very good correlation between SR and elasticity score (Spearman coefficient of 0.911). Conclusions: Elastography is a fast, simple method that can complement conventional USG examination. This method has the lowest cost/efficiency ratio and it is also the most noninvasive and accessible imaging method, with an accuracy comparable to MRI.
Case report: Calcifying fibrous tumor presenting as an asymptomatic pelvic mass
Authors: Giardino Angela A , Ramaiya Nikhil H , Shinagare Atul B , Jagannathan Jyothi P , Stachler Matthew D , Raut Chandrajit P
Published: December 2011

Calcifying fibrous tumor (CFT) is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor most commonly found in the soft tissues of the extremities and pleura. It is characterized by hyalinized collagenous fibrous tissue, with bland spindle cells, psammomatous or dystrophic calcifications, and focal lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. CFT of the gastrointestinal tract is exceedingly uncommon. We report a case of CFT arising from the small intestine and associated mesentery; this case was identified incidentally in an otherwise healthy 45-year-old man.
Translating Social Ecological Theory into Guidelines for Community Health Promotion
Authors: Stokols Daniel
Published: December 2011

Health promotion programs often lack a clearly specified theoretical foundation or are based on narrowly conceived conceptual models. For example, lifestyle modification programs typically emphasize individually focused behavior change strategies, while neglecting the environmental underpinnings of health and illness. This article compares three distinct, yet complementary, theoretical perspectives on health promotion: behavioral change, environmental enhancement, and social ecological models. Key strengths and limitations of each perspective are examined, and core principles of social ecological theory are used to derive practical guidelines for designing and evaluating community health promotion programs. Directions for future health promotion research are discussed, including studies examining the role of intermediaries (e.g., corporate decision-makers, legislators) in promoting the well-being of others, and those evaluating the duration and scope of intervention outcomes.
Strength Training and Hypercholesterolemia: An Epidemiologic Study of 8499 Employed Men
Authors: Tucker Larry A. , Silvester L. Jay
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study was conducted to determine the relation between the quantity of strength training and hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol ⩽ 240 mg/dl) in men. A secondary objective was to ascertain the effects of age, smoking, alcohol use, body mass, and participation in physical activities other than strength training on the association between strength training and hypercholesterolemia.

Design.

A cross-sectional research design was used.

Setting.

Data were collected at the worksites of subjects throughout the United States.

Subjects.

The participants were 8499 male employees of more than 50 companies.

Measures.

Blood was drawn while the subjects were in a fasting state, and a questionnaire was used to collect the demographic and lifestyle information, including the data about strength training. The subjects were divided into five groups according to their self-reported duration and frequency (i.e., quantity) of participation in strength training.

Results.

Subjects who reported regular involvement in strength training had a reduced risk of hypercholesterolemia. However, after controlling for all the potential confounders, only the high-quantity lifters, those who completed 4 to 7 hours of strength training each week, maintained a reduced risk of hypercholesterolemia.

Conclusions.

High-quantity strength training is strongly associated with a reduced risk of hypercholesterolemia, even after controlling for numerous, potentially confounding factors (odds ratio = .46; 95% confidence interval = .23 to .91).
Alcohol: A Review of the Impact of Worksite Interventions on Health and Behavioral Outcomes
Authors: Roman Paul M. , Blum Terry C.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To review, evaluate, and summarize research published in scientific journals linking alcohol-related interventions in the worksite to either individual or organizational outcomes.

Methods.

A review of the literature published in peer-review journals between 1970 and 1995 identified 24 articles that reported the results of studies on the impact of worksite programs on alcohol control on health and behavioral outcomes.

Important findings.

There is strong suggestive evidence and some conclusive evidence that worksite interventions including core components of employee assistance programs are effective in rehabilitating employees with alcohol problems. There is suggestive and conclusive evidence that worksite training oriented toward alcohol problems affects the attitudes of supervisors and employees for reasonable periods after the completion of training.

Conclusions.

Investment in worksite interventions directed at reducing alcohol-related problems appears to be a sound strategy, although considerably more research is needed. This research should include broad representation of appropriate worksite populations. Similar measurements should be used across studies. To the extent possible, randomized control group designs should be employed. Without significant external sponsorship, it is not likely that such an improved body of research data will emerge.
Characteristics of Participants and Nonparticipants in Worksite Health Promotion
Authors: Lewis R. Jeffrey , Huebner Wendy W. , Yarborough Charles M.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To identify demographic characteristics associated with worksite health promotion participation and to determine whether employees with high-risk health-related behaviors, as measured by a health risk appraisal, were participating in programs designed to address these behaviors.

Design.

Descriptive

Setting.

A petrochemical research and development company where employees were offered a health risk appraisal questionnaire, a series of on-site wellness programs, and an on-site fitness center.

Subjects.

All employees (n = 2290) working continuously from May 1, 1990, through February 28, 1992.

Measures.

Demographic and behavioral risk characteristics of participants and nonparticipants.

Results.

Participation was 37% (health risk appraisal), 64% (all wellness programs), and 10% (fitness center), with women participating at higher rates than men in all programs. Most programs attracted 10% to 40% of the employees at risk for the particular behavior addressed by the program, although lower penetration (7% to 9%) was observed for the on-site fitness center and blood pressure education programs. With the exception of wellness programs for weight, smoking, and blood pressure, employees at lower behavioral risk tended to be more likely to participate than employees at high risk.

Conclusions.

Efforts to increase participation by all company employees, especially among those with high-risk behaviors, would benefit all health promotion programs, particularly the on-site fitness center.
The Role of Health Consciousness in Predicting Attention to Health Warning Messages
Authors: Kaskutas Lee A. , Greenfield Thomas K.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

Guided by information processing theory and the health belief model, this paper considers the relationship between health consciousness among the general population and attention to environmental health warnings about alcohol consumption. Mechanisms of exposure to three dominant types of impersonal alcohol-related health messages in the environment are explored.

Design.

Cross-sectional survey using telephone interview data.

Subjects.

A representative nationwide sample of adults was interviewed in 1993 ( n = 1026), with a response rate of 63%.

Measures.

Key variables include exposure to warning labels on alcoholic beverages, to point-of-sale posters, and to advertisements in the media, as well as respondents' alcohol consumption, health problems (indicative of salience of health warnings), and level of health consciousness assessed by items tapping concern with nutrition and seeking information on health topics.

Results.

In the total sample, over a third had seen a warning label or poster and almost all had seen an advertisement about the risks associated with alcohol consumption in 1993. Survey respondents scored very high on five individual items that make up the health consciousness scale introduced here, with 69% endorsing all items. The scale demonstrated good internal reliability (alpha = .70) and was significantly correlated ( p <. 01) with not enjoying getting drunk and with usually reading product warning labels, suggesting construct validity. Yet the hypothesized strong relationships between health consciousness and attention to health warnings about drinking were not observed; nor was salience of messages a predictor of recall. Importantly, high proportions of underage drinkers and young adults at elevated risk for drinking problems are reached by container warning label messages. Mechanisms of exposure recall vary based on message source, with “container label recall” associated with heavier drinking, younger age, and purchasing patterns; “poster recall” associated with purchasing and health consciousness; and “advertisement recall” associated with heavy consumption and younger age.

Conclusions.

These results are contrary to predictions from skeptics of broad-based informational interventions, who argue that only the already-health conscious are attentive to health warnings about the risks of alcohol consumption. These data suggest that the label is reaching intended target audiences, especially younger people, males, and heavier alcohol consumers. Future research in predicting attention to impersonal health warnings in the environment should continue to improve the assessment of constructs such as salience and health consciousness, and should further test the applicability of available theoretical models. Subsequent research should also consider additional measures to lap mechanisms of exposure to impersonal health messages to enable a better understanding of the population that is not being reached by such public health interventions.