bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resolução do problema de alocação de berços através de uma técnica de geração de colunas
Authors: Mauri Geraldo Regis , Oliveira Alexandre César Muniz de , Lorena Luiz Antonio Nogueira
Published: December 2011

O Problema de Alocação de Berços (PAB) aborda a programação e a alocação de navios às áreas de atracação ao longo de um cais. Neste trabalho, o PAB é modelado como um Problema de Roteamento de Veículos com Múltiplas Garagens e Janelas de Tempo, e para resolvê-lo, é utilizado um método proposto recentemente denominado ATP/PL. Este método consiste na aplicação do Algoritmo de Treinamento Populacional (ATP) juntamente com a Programação Linear (PL) para Geração de Colunas. Estes métodos são aplicados de maneira interativa, onde o ATP, através de informações da relaxação da PL, é responsável pela geração de boas colunas, e a PL pela resolução de um Problema de Particionamento de Conjuntos, com uma restrição adicional (PPC+), formado por essas colunas. Os resultados computacionais são obtidos através de instâncias utilizadas em um trabalho recente sobre o problema e comparados com os resultados obtidos pelo CPLEX e por outro método encontrado na literatura.
[NO TITLE AVAILABLE]
Authors: Gartner Ivan Ricardo
Published: December 2011

This paper aims to present a methodology for modeling the corporate economic and financial performance. The methodology is based on multi-attribute methods that are applied in the aggregation of economic and financial indicators. The weights of these indicators are obtained by the principle of maximum entropy, with the intention of making an objective and non-biased analysis. The methodology is applied to a sample of Brazilian companies of electric power in the period from 2003 to 2007 and the results are analyzed using a scale of ten categories of risk. The results show that, in the last two years, more than 85% of the sample firms are in a range of low-risk in that industry. The methodology proves to be valid as an alternative to correlation studies and to support the formulation of industry performance restrictions for problems of portfolio optimization, resource allocation and credit analysis.
Probabilistic composition of criteria for schedule monitoring
Authors: Sant'Anna Annibal Parracho
Published: December 2011

Time is a key factor in management. Along a project execution, keeping the best completion rates, not too slow and not too fast, is a central objective but such a best rate cannot be suitably anticipated in a precise schedule. It must be determined on the job, on a comparative basis. This paper develops an evaluation system involving the measurement of schedule fitting indicators designed to deal with such conditions. This evaluation system is based on a transformation of the data into probabilities of reaching the frontier of best performances that permits precisely composing measurements on correlated attributes. This feature of the system allows for combining criteria evaluated on elementary and on aggregate levels.
Bacterial Lysine Decarboxylase Influences Human Dental Biofilm Lysine Content, Biofilm Accumulation, and Subclinical Gingival Inflammation
Authors: Lohinai Zsolt , Keremi Beata , Szoko Eva , Tabi Tamas , Szabo Csaba , Tulassay Zsolt , Levine Martin
Published: December 2011

Background: Dental biofilms contain a protein that inhibits mammalian cell growth, possibly lysine decarboxylase from Eikenella corrodens. This enzyme decarboxylates lysine, an essential amino acid for dentally attached cell turnover in gingival sulci. Lysine depletion may stop this turnover, impairing the barrier to bacterial compounds. The aims of this study are to determine biofilm lysine and cadaverine contents before oral hygiene restriction (OHR) and their association with plaque index (PI) and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) after OHR for 1 week.

Methods: Laser‐induced fluorescence after capillary electrophoresis was used to determine lysine and cadaverine contents in dental biofilm, tongue biofilm, and saliva before OHR and in dental biofilm after OHR.

Results: Before OHR, lysine and cadaverine contents of dental biofilm were similar and 10‐fold greater than in saliva or tongue biofilm. After 1 week of OHR, the biofilm content of cadaverine increased and that of lysine decreased, consistent with greater biofilm lysine decarboxylase activity. Regression indicated that PI and GCF exudation were positively related to biofilm lysine after OHR, unless biofilm lysine exceeded the minimal blood plasma content, in which case PI was further increased but GCF exudation was reduced.

Conclusions: After OHR, lysine decarboxylase activity seems to determine biofilm lysine content and biofilm accumulation. When biofilm lysine exceeds minimal blood plasma content after OHR, less GCF appeared despite more biofilm. Lysine appears important for biofilm accumulation and the epithelial barrier to bacterial proinflammatory agents. Inhibiting lysine decarboxylase may retard the increased GCF exudation required for microbial development and gingivitis.
Adsorption of Enamel Matrix Proteins to a Bovine‐Derived Bone Grafting Material and Its Regulation of Cell Adhesion, Proliferation, and Differentiation
Authors: Miron Richard J. , D. Bosshardt Dieter , Hedbom Erik , Zhang Yufeng , Haenni Beat , Buser Daniel , Sculean Anton
Published: December 2011

Background: The use of various combinations of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and grafting materials has been shown to promote periodontal wound healing/regeneration. However, the downstream cellular behavior of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and osteoblasts has not yet been studied. Furthermore, it is unknown to what extent the bleeding during regenerative surgery may influence the adsorption of exogenous proteins to the surface of bone grafting materials and the subsequent cellular behavior. In the present study, the aim is to test EMD adsorption to the surface of natural bone mineral (NBM) particles in the presence of blood and determine the effect of EMD coating to NBM particles on downstream cellular pathways, such as adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of primary human osteoblasts and PDL cells.

Methods: NBM particles were precoated in various settings with EMD or human blood and analyzed for protein adsorption patterns via fluorescent imaging and high‐resolution immunocytochemistry with an anti‐EMD antibody. Cell attachment and cell proliferation were quantified using fluorescent double‐stranded DNA‐binding dye. Cell differentiation was analyzed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction for genes encoding runt‐related transcription factor 2, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC), and collagen1α1 (COL1A1), and mineralization was assessed using red dye staining.

Results: Analysis of cell attachment and cell proliferation revealed significantly higher osteoblast and PDL cell attachment on EMD‐coated surfaces when compared with control and blood‐coated surfaces. EMD also stimulated release of growth factors and cytokines, including bone morphogenetic protein 2 and transforming growth factor β1. Moreover, there were significantly higher mRNA levels of osteoblast differentiation markers, including COL1A1, ALP, and OC, in osteoblasts and PDL cells cultured on EMD‐coated NBM particles.

Conclusion: The present results suggest that 1) EMD enhances osteoblast and PDL cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation on NBM particles, and 2) blood contamination of the grafting material before mixing with EMD may inhibit EMD adsorption.
A comparative assessment of institutional frameworks for managing drinking water quality
Authors: Rahman Zarah , Crocker Jonny , Chang Kang , Khush Ranjiv , Bartram Jamie
Published: December 2011

The global burden of disease attributable to contaminated drinking water calls for effective strategies for ensuring drinking water quality. To characterize institutional and policy approaches towards water quality management, we compared national and sub-national institutional frameworks for drinking water provision and management in nine developing countries, focusing on roles, responsibilities and capacity for water quality monitoring. Responsibilities for operational and surveillance (compliance) water quality monitoring of formal urban water supplies are typically well defined, with attention placed on both activities. Legal requirements for surveillance monitoring of community and smaller supplies are generally also in place, however, standards for operational monitoring vary considerably between countries. In practice, resources and capacity for consistent operational and surveillance monitoring of rural and informal urban supplies are limited. To improve oversight and management in these settings, we hypothesize that surveillance agencies could increase the use of audit-based water quality data collection from formal urban water suppliers and target the resulting efficiency gains towards increased direct surveillance of rural and informal water supplies. In addition there is a need for capacity building and technology development that supports increased operational monitoring and data reporting from resource-poor settings.
Turbidity tubes for drinking water quality assessments
Authors: Dorea Caetano C. , Simpson Murray R.
Published: December 2011

Turbidity tubes have been considered to be the field method of choice for drinking water quality monitoring in resource-limited contexts because of their relative simplicity and low cost in comparison with conventional (nephelometric) turbidimeters. These tubes utilise the principle of visual extinction of a submerged target for turbidity determination and were therefore thought to be subject to user subjectivity, possibly affecting results. This study evaluated their performance under both field and controlled-laboratory conditions. Results from turbidity tubes can differ substantially from those obtained with conventional turbidimeters; this is of particular importance in the reporting of low turbidity (<10 NTU) measurements. These differences could be due to a combination of factors, such as: user variability, differences in calibration scales, and turbidity tube target shape and background colour. In view of their limitations, the usefulness of turbidity tubes for drinking water quality assessments and recommendations on the reporting of their results are also discussed.
Managing incidents in the water utility sector – towards high reliability?
Authors: Bradshaw Roland , Gormley Áine M. , Charrois Jeffrey W. , Hrudey Steve E. , Cromar Nancy J. , Jalba Daniel , Pollard Simon J. T.
Published: December 2011

Do water utilities exhibit characteristics of high organisational reliability? Here, the reported characteristics of high reliability organisations (HROs) were explored within a regional water utility, and specifically within their incident response team. We found the utility well positioned to manage incidents and that many HRO principles were identifiable as management practice under these trying conditions. The observance of HRO principles contributed to the resilience of the organisation and toward the maintenance of a safe and reliable drinking water supply. An investigation of technical reliability in the system showed that the utility invested heavily in automated monitoring and control systems and took a differentiated, risk-based approach towards resource allocation to that of HROs, which maintain existing technology with zero tolerance of defective, substandard or malfunctioning equipment.
Modeling of an immobilized sludge reactor with polyethylene glycol (PEG)-pellet to remove NH4-N from groundwater
Authors: Khanitchaidecha Wilawan , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Sumino Tatsuo , Kazama Futaba
Published: December 2011

An immobilized sludge system model was developed to simulate nitrification (NH4-N → NO3-N) and denitrification (NO3-N → N2) processes in a PEG-pellet (microorganisms entrapped in polyethylene glycol (PEG)) reactor for removing NH4-N from groundwater. The nitrification and denitrification processes were described by modifying the Michaelis-Menten kinetic incorporating the factors of dissolved oxygen, organic carbon and pH. The model consists of seven fixed parameters out of which the maximum velocity of nitrification (Vm,ni) was found to be the most sensitive. The model can be applied to predict the best operating condition (i.e., duration of intermittent aeration period and pellet ratio (PEG-pellet in reactor/reactor volume)) for different NH4-N concentrations. The model predicts that the highest efficiency to remove 45 mg/L of NH4-N can be achieved when the PEG-pellet reactor with 0.2 pellet ratio is operated under 6 h of intermittent aerations and the efficiency is strongly affected by the pellet ratio, especially when NH4-N concentration in the influent is higher than 60 mg/L.
Water treatment and supply: intermediate education in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Byars P. , Antizar-Ladislao B.
Published: December 2011

In 1973 the economist E.F Schumacher wrote ‘Small is Beautiful’. In this he created the vision of a concept known as ‘intermediate technology’. Directly from this grew the popular ‘appropriate technology’ movement. An appropriate technology, in the ideal sense, is designed with special consideration of the environmental, ethical, cultural, social, political, and economical aspects of the community it is intended for. The term ‘appropriate technology’ is continually used when referring to water supply and treatment technologies in international development. The widespread provision of hand-pumps in Africa by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) fully characterises the approach and remains the most prominent display of technologies, transferred on a charitable basis, between the developed and developing countries. However, after years of NGOs working with hand-pumps in Africa the first signs are showing that there are widespread problems with the current approach. In many cases the nature of ‘appropriateness’ is determined from the perspective of an external technical expert and not by the communities themselves. The lack of appropriateness is leading to severely unsustainable projects. This paper explores the linkage that has not been clearly mapped in technology transfer, i.e., the use of scientific and technical education. The focus of the transfer is on developing the knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate ‘appropriateness’ from the perspective of the end user. It explores the concept of ‘Intermediate Education’ – a method of using experimental learning to address a systemic weakness in safe water provision in development.
A joint power and desalination plant for Sinai and the Gaza Strip
Authors: Bashitialshaaer Raed , Persson Kenneth M.
Published: December 2011

Desalination can be a cost-effective way to produce fresh water and possibly electricity. The Gaza Strip has had a complex hydro-political situation for many years. Gaza is bordered by the Mediterranean sea in the west, by Israel to the north and east and by Egypt in the south. Water and electricity consumption in the Gaza Strip is expected to increase in the future due to the increasing population. In this paper, a solution for Sinai and the Gaza Strip is suggested involving the building of a joint power and desalination plant, located in Egypt close to the border with Gaza. The suggested joint project would increase drinking water supply by 500,000 m3/d and the power supply by 500 MW, of which two thirds is suggested to be used in Gaza and one third in Sinai. The present lack of electricity and water in Gaza could be erased by such a project. But Egypt will probably gain more: more water and electricity for the future development of Sinai and Gaza; a significant value will be added to the sale of Egyptian natural gas; more employment opportunities for Sinai people; the domestic market for operation and maintenance of desalination plants can be boosted by the suggested project; Egypt may naturally and peacefully increase its cooperation with and presence in Gaza, which should lead to increased security. This type of project could also get international support and can be a role-model for cooperation and trust-building between neighbours.
Building Fictional Ethos: Analysing the Rhetorical Strategies of Persona Design for Online Role Play
Authors: Doerr-Stevens Candance
Published: December 2011

This article presents a qualitative case study that uses discourse and social semiotic analysis methods in order to examine the rhetorical construction of fictional personas within an online role play used for learning in the college classroom. Of special focus are the differing patterns of semiotic resource use (for example, language and interaction) and how these patterns vary in their rhetorical impact. The article begins with a review of recent literature related to digital writing and online role play. Next, an analysis of two participants' identity performances within an online role-play debate shows how the selection and distribution of semiotic resources have different rhetorical impact within the role-play setting. This study further develops the understanding of online identity construction and networking as social practices that impact learning and literacy online.
Critical Media Literacy as Engaged Pedagogy
Authors: Hammer Rhonda
Published: December 2011

Given the escalating role of media and new media in our everyday lives, there is an urgent need for courses in Critical Media Literacy, at all levels of schooling. The empowering nature of these kinds of courses is demonstrated through a discussion of a Critical Media Literacy course taught at UCLA.
Socio-Technical Relations in the Creation of an Interest-Driven Open Course
Authors: Ponti Marisa
Published: December 2011

The aim of this article is to present the findings from a small exploratory case study of an open course on cyberpunk literature conducted at the Peer 2 Peer University (P2PU), an online grassroots organisation that runs non-accredited courses. Employing actor network theory to inform an ethnographic-inductive approach, the case study sought to understand the performative effects of technologies on the creation of forms of learning and forms of presence in a setting of peer-based learning. The research data included observation of discussions in an online forum and chats, course participants' blogs and P2PU's organisational documentation. Three main findings emerged from a thematic analysis: (1) the participatory role of technology in the course was characterised by the use of an array of different open source and free tools, most of which were not integrated within the P2PU platform – and this fluid technological space arguably led to a decentralised network; (2) people with different backgrounds affiliated around their common passion for the cyberpunk literature and the artefacts associated with it; and (3) knowledge was distributed and dispersed across many different people and artefacts, bringing about a shift from the subject-authority pattern of relations generally associated with teacher-led education to the agential pattern of relations associated with peer-led education, in which the course organiser and participants can have the same level of influence.
Insiders' Views of their Role: Toward their Training
Authors: Krespi Boothby Margorit Rita
Published: December 2011

Research on peer-led support programs in prisons suggests that these programs are beneficial. One such program is the Insiders Scheme. Preliminary reports on its effectiveness suggest that it has a positive impact on prisoners as well as on the Insiders themselves. Nevertheless, there is no detailed information on the ways in which the Insiders perceive their role. Information may help to set targets for training of Insiders. Therefore, in the present qualitative study, focus group meetings were undertaken with all three Insiders in a male prison, using an interview-guide approach to describe the ways in which the Insiders perceived their role. The anonymized transcripts of these meetings were analysed inductively by following established conventions to ground analysis in the data. Insiders evaluated their role in terms of the different aspects of their role, the strategies that they used to help other prisoners, the personal impact of their role, the difficulties that they experienced during the course of their work, and possible ways of improving their role. The present findings contribute to an evidence-base for peer-centred training for the Insiders Scheme and therefore highlight the value of undertaking qualitative research among Insiders to identify specific targets for their training.
Role of MRI in the evaluation of acoustic schwannoma and its comparison to histopathological findings
Authors: Haque S , Hossain A , Quddus MA , Jahan MU
Published: December 2011

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been the primary imaging modality and has revolutionized the imaging of brain tumors. MRI can display accurate multi planer imaging without interfering of adjacent structures specially for posterior fossa mass lesion. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for cerebollo-pontine (CP) angle Schwannoma. The study was performed to determine, the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in the evaluation of intracranial extra axial CP angle Schwannoma. MRI scan of brain was done on 42 consecutively selected patients referred for the evaluation of CP Acoustic Schwannoma. The age range from 21-60 years and the mean age was 42.85(+9.5) years. Highest incidence of cerebollo-pontine angle (CPA) mass were found 42.86% in 41-50 age group of patients. Male and Female ratio was 1.083:1. The most common presenting feature of the patients with CP angle Acoustic Schwannoma were headache 90.48%. Acoustic Schwannoma is T1 hypointense 100%, T2 hyper intense 84.61% and heterogeneously hyper intense 92.30% in FLAIR image. After giving contrast agents, homogeneous enhancement 57.69% and heterogeneous 42.31% cases of Acoustic Schwannoma. Overall 61.54% Acoustic Schwannoma strong contrast enhancement was observed. Dural tail was observed in 26.92% cases. Perilesional edema was observed 38.46% cases. Mass effect was observed in 76.92%. After complete MRI evaluation 61.9% had Acoustic Schwannoma. Histopathologicaly proved cases showed out of all patients Acoustic Schwannoma 59.52%. The overall sensitivity of MRI to diagnose Acoustic Schwannoma were found, Sensitivity- 96%, Specificity- 88.2%, PPV-92.31%, NPV-93.75% and Acceuracy 92.86%. Test is significant with p<0.0001 level. It is conceivable that MRI is a highly accurate, sensitive and Gadolinium enhanced MRI is more sensitive in detection of acoustic Schwannoma. MR imaging is the study of choice for the examination of the patient of cerebellopontine angle Schwannoma because of its high sensitivity specially after use of contrast material. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i3.9120 BMRCB 2011; 37(3): 92-96
A huge acrochordon in labia majora - An unusual presentation
Authors: Ahmed S , Khan AK , Hasan M , Jamal ABM
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i3.9123 BMRCB 2011; 37(3): 110-111
Good clinical practice: guide to medical researcher
Authors: Hassan Md Mahtab Uddin
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9102 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 1-2
Post-traumatic stress disorder: an often ignored malady of mind
Authors: Ahmed Syed Kamaluddin
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9103 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 3-6
First kidney transplantation in Chittagong Medical College Hospital
Authors: Chowdhury Dipti , Yunus Emran Bin , Kashem MA , Dutta Pradip Kumar , Huda Md Nurul , Das Saibal , Saha Ratan , Rahman Faijur , Saha Joydeb , Deb Alak , Shaheed Md , Tareq Md , Sarker AK , Hossain Jahangir , Salam MA , Karim Monowarul , Shamim Monowarul Hoque , Alam AKM Samsul , Chowdhury Gulshanara , Shahjahan Md , Shahnewaj Md , Nasir Md
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9104 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 7-10
A comparative study between the single-stage transanal and Soave-Boley pull-through for short segment Hirschsprung's Disease
Authors: Hoque Md Momtazul , Bhuiyan Md Akbar Husain , Bhuiyan Md Nur Hossain , Talukder Shah Alam , Banu Tahmina
Published: December 2011

Keywords: Soave-Boley Pull; entercolitis; hirschsprung's diseaseDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9107 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 20-24
Effects of hypertriglyceridaemia on blood coagulation factor VII: a case control study of 110 cases
Authors: Aziz Rehana , Alam ASM Towhidul , Deb Ajoy , Haque Mahmudul
Published: December 2011

Keywords: Hypertriglyceridaemia; plasma coagulation factor VII; hypercoagulability; coronary artery diseaseDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9110 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 32-34
Management of large mandibular ameloblastoma: a case report
Authors: Rahman Md Mizanur , Uddin Wares , Uddin Main , Sarwar AFM
Published: December 2011

Keywords: ameloblastoma; hemimandibulectomy; disarticulationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9112 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 39-42
Residential field site training programme abstracts
Authors: Students The
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcmcta.v22i1.9116 JCMCTA 2011; 22(1): 61-64
Lantibiotics: A Candidate for Future Generation of Antibiotics
Authors: Asaduzzaman SM , Al-Mahin Abdullah , Bashar Tanvir , Noor Rashed
Published: December 2011

Emergence of multi-resistant pathogens has urged the exploration of antibiotic repertoires. The long reliability on the glycopeptide antibiotic vancomycin against fatal diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria is also in wrecked to insist on finding more promising alternative antibiotics. The peptide antibiotic nisin is effective against vancomycin resistant bacteria. Nisin is the first lantibiotic that was discovered before penicillin and has been widely used as a safe alternative for chemical reagents in food preservation in around 50 countries for over 40 years without natural resistance development. Therefore, lantibiotics are one of the most promising alternative candidate for future antibiotics that maintain their antibacterial efficacy by many modes of action. Till now, more than 60 lantibiotics have been isolated, identified and characterized. We explained various aspects of biosynthesis, grouping, mutagenesis, activities and modes of action of lantibiotics in this review. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v1i1.9096 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.1(1), July 2011, p.1-12
An Assessment of Microbiological Quality of Some Commercially Packed and Fresh Fruit Juice Available in Dhaka City: A Comparative Study
Authors: Rahman Tasmina , Hasan Sabrina , Noor Rashed
Published: December 2011

Fruit juices are regarded as the most preferred non-alcoholic beverage worldwide to all age groups. In general, microbial growth in fruit juice is restricted by using preservatives and also through other environmental factors during production. Still, the presence of some indicator organisms in fruit juice is responsible for causing food-borne diseases and even death. So, from public health point of view, it is quite important to know the microbiological quality of the fruit juices available in the market. Primary objective of this study was to assess the microbial quality of fresh and commercially packed available juices collected from different locations of Dhaka city. A total of six fresh juice and nine commercially packed juice samples were collected. Standard culture techniques were followed to assess total viable count (TVC), total staphylococcal count (TSC), total Bacillus count (TBC) and total fungal count (TFC) on different culture media. The TVC varied from the range of 102 to 105 cfu/ml with the highest of 2.4 x 105 cfu/ml. A large number of staphylococci and Bacillus was also found from several samples. Total coliform and fecal coliform was found in six and five (out of fifteen) samples, respectively. Among total coliforms, Klebsiella, Enterobacter along with E. coli were detected. From all the assessment it was determined that the microbial quality of commercially packed juice was fairer than that of fresh juice collected from local market. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v1i1.9097   Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.1(1), July 2011, p.13-18
Microbiological Quality Assessment of Foods collected from Different Hospitals within Dhaka City
Authors: Rabbi Fazle Alam , Rabbi Fazle , Runun TA , Zaman Khadiza , Rahman M Majibur , Noor Rashed
Published: December 2011

Various types of cooked food samples were collected from six different hospitals within the city of Dhaka and they were analyzed for the presence (if any) of total aerobic count (TAC), total coliform count (TCC) and total staphylococcal count (TSA) in order to determine the levels of contamination and to relate these findings to the hygiene practice of the food handlers. According to Gulf standard for microbiological criteria for foodstuff, all of the food samples exceeded the acceptable total aerobic count limit of 5 x 105 cfu/g while 4 out of 6 samples exceeded coliform count limit of 1x102 cfu/g. The total coliform counts were found to be the highest in the fish (1.6 x 107 cfu/g) and egg (2.2 x 106 cfu/g) curry samples of hospital 1 and hospital 4, respectively and were the lowest in the fish curry (2 x 103 cfu/g) of hospital 4. Staphylococcus aureus was found in all of the food samples with the highest occurrence (too numerous to count) in Dal and Rice samples from hospitals 3 and 6, respectively. On Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate (XLD) agar, no black centered colony but many colorless colonies were found which primarily indicated the absence of Salmonella spp. in those samples. In order to identify pathogenic microorganisms from food samples, a series of conventional biochemical tests were performed with 23 randomly selected isolates from MacConkey, XLD, MSA agar plates. The isolates were presumptively identified as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella spp. and Pseudomonas spp. etc. The antibiotic susceptibility test was performed with eleven selected isolates using six commonly prescribed antibiotics (ampicillin, tetracyclines, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, gentamicin and azithromycin). The results showed that six isolates were resistant to vancomycin, two isolates were multidrug resistant and one isolate was intermediately resistant to azithromycin. All the isolates were found to be sensitive to ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin. Based on the data, it can be suggested that adequate hygiene practices are required after cooking the foods and before serving them as they reconsider.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v1i1.9100  Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.1(1), July 2011, p.31-36
Microbiological Study on Supply Water and Treated Water in Dhaka City
Authors: Acharjee Mrityunjoy , Rahman Farjana , Beauty Sadia Afrin , Feroz Farahnaaz , Rahman M Majibur , Noor Rashed
Published: December 2011

Water borne diseases are the major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries like Bangladesh, where disease outbreaks occur due to unsafe drinking water, inadequate sanitation and poor hygienic practices. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of water used for drinking as well as household purposes in Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Eighteen water samples were collected from different rivers and canals. Among those, two samples were treated with chlorine. Physico-chemical parameters (pH, salinity, turbidity, conductivity and dissolved oxygen) were monitored during the time of sample collection using portable meters. For microbiological analysis, water samples were collected in sterile screw capped bottle. All Experiments were carried out within 24 hours after collecting the samples. All the water sources were found to be contaminated with total coliform, faecal coliform, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Vibrio cholerae, Aeromonas spp. and Fungi except treated water samples. Several biochemical tests were performed for confirmation of suspected organisms. According to these results, huge amount of total coliform and faecal coliform were observed in every sample and these amount were very much similar for other organisms. Treated water samples were found to be microbiologically accepted than untreated water samples. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v1i1.9132    Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.1(1), July 2011, p.42-45
A Novel Cogging Torque Simulation Method for Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Machines
Authors: Hsiao Chun-Yu , Yeh Sheng-Nian , Hwang Jonq-Chin
Published: December 2011

Cogging torque exists between rotor mounted permanent magnets and stator teeth due to magnetic attraction and this is an undesired phenomenon which produces output ripple, vibration and noise in machines. The purpose of this paper is to study the existence and effects of cogging torque, and to present a novel, rapid, half magnet pole pair technique for forecasting and evaluating cogging torque. The technique uses the finite element method as well as Matlab research and development oriented software tools to reduce numerous computing jobs and simulation time. An example of a rotor-skewed structure used to reduce cogging torque of permanent magnet synchronous machines is evaluated and compared with a conventional analysis method for the same motor to verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The novel method is proved valuable and suitable for large-capacity machine design.
The Role of the E2F Transcription Factor Family in UV-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Hazar-Rethinam Mehlika , Endo-Munoz Liliana , Gannon Orla , Saunders Nicholas
Published: December 2011

The E2F transcription factor family is traditionally associated with cell cycle control. However, recent data has shown that activating E2Fs (E2F1-3a) are potent activators of apoptosis. In contrast, the recently cloned inhibitory E2Fs (E2F7 and 8) appear to antagonize E2F-induced cell death. In this review we will discuss (i) the potential role of E2Fs in UV-induced cell death and (ii) the implications of this to the development of UV-induced cutaneous malignancies.
Lycium barbarum Polysaccharides Attenuate Cisplatin-Induced Hair Cell Loss in Rat Cochlear Organotypic Cultures
Authors: Liu Quan , Li Yanqing , Hu Li , Wang Dehui
Published: December 2011

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on cisplatin-induced hair cell damage in the organ of Corti explant. The neonatal (P2-3) rat organ of Corti explant was exposed to cisplatin (20 μM; 48 h) with or without LBP pretreatment (150 and 600 μg/mL; 24 h). Hair cell loss was indicated by FITC-labeled phalloidin staining. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and alteration of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in hair cells were analyzed using fluorescent probes 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate and JC-1, respectively. The results showed that LBP significantly attenuated hair cell loss (p < 0.01). Hair cells pretreated with LBP showed significant reduction in ROS production and the decline of ΔΨm compared with cisplatin alone group (p < 0.01), indicating the protective effect of LBP on cisplatin-induced hair cell loss. Taken together, these results indicate that LBP was effective in attenuating cisplatin-induced hair cell loss by reducing the production of ROS and maintaining mitochondrial ΔΨm.
Explosion of 4-Acetylamino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxoammonium Perchlorate and Replacement by Tetrafluoroborate
Authors: Bobbitt James
Published: December 2011

In December, 1998, I published a paper (J. Org. Chem. 1998 63 , 9367) describing the synthesis and reactions of two oxoammonium salts, 4-acetylamino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxoammonium perchlorate (1) and tetrafluoroborate (2).[...]
4,5-Dimethoxy-2-nitrobenzophenone
Authors: Smirnov Sergey , Butin Alexander , Stroganova Tat'yana
Published: December 2011

The general part of the experimental section [1] has been presented elsewhere.[...]
3,5-Bis[5-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]nitrobenzene
Authors: Osterod Frank , Kraft Arno
Published: December 2011

A solution of 5-nitroisophthaloyl dichloride (1) [1] (3.92 g, 15.8 mmol) and 4-tert-butylbenzhydrazide (2) [2] (6.08 g, 31.6 mmol) in CHCl3 (70 mL) was heated to reflux for 12 h.[...]
3-Cyano-2-cyanomethylthio-4-methoxymethyl-6-methylpyridine
Authors: Kaigorodova Yelena , Vasilin Vladimir , Krapivin Gennady
Published: December 2011

2-Cyanomethylthiopyridine (2) was prepared by the reaction of the pyridinethione 1 with chloroacetonitrile using literature procedures [1, 2].[...]
4-{[3-cyano-4-(methoxymethyl)-6-methyl-2-pyridinyl]oxy}benzoic acid
Authors: Kaigorodova Yelena , Vasilin Vladimir , Krapivin Gennady
Published: December 2011

4-{[3-cyano-4-(methoxymethyl)-6-methyl-2-pyridinyl]oxy}benzoic acid 3 was prepared by the reaction of the 2-chloro-3-cyanopyridine 1 with 4-hydroxybenzoic acid 2 using a literature procedure [1].[...]
N-{2-[(2-Oxo-2H-chromen-4-yl)amino]ethyl}acetamide
Authors: Karagiosov Stoyan , Ivanov Ivo , Iliev Boyan
Published: December 2011

The direct synthesis of 4-(monoalkylamino)coumarins from primary amines [1] was developed on the basis of the reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin with ammonium acetate in acetic acid as reported by Joshi et al. [2].[...]
A New Heterocyclization Product of Adhyperforin from Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort)
Authors: Vugdelija Suzana , Vajs Vlatka , Trifunovic Snezana , Djokovic Dejan , Milosavljevic Slobodan
Published: December 2011

From the aerial parts of Hypericum perforatum L. we have isolated phloroglucinol 1 (see the formula), a homologue of 2, the latter isolated previously from the same extract and identified by 2D NMR (DQF COSY, PS NOESY, TOCSY, HSQC and HMBC) [1].[...]
N-Benzotriazol-1-yl-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-b-carboline
Authors: Lam Ann , Peerzada Naseem
Published: December 2011

Katritzky's well-established chemistry of benzotriazole [1] was applied to the synthesis of 1,2,3,4- tetrahydro-b-carboline, which have been traditionally prepared by Pictet-Spengler condensation2, Fischer cyclisation and other methods3.[...]
5-(Indol-3-yl)barbituric acid
Authors: Asiri Abdullah Mohamed
Published: December 2011

5-(Indol-3-yl)barbituric acid 3 was prepared by knovenagel condensation of indol-3-carboxaldehyde 1 and barbituric acid 2 in ethanol using piperidine as a base [1,2].[...]
2-Carbomethoxy-8a,9a-epoxy Nor-31-lanosten-3-enol
Authors: Daoubi M. , Benharref A. , Kenz A. , Pierrot M.
Published: December 2011

To sodium hydride (0.34 g, 13.96 mmole) carefully washed with anhydrous benzene under nitrogen (to eliminate mineral oil from the commercial product) [1], was added 0.8 ml (9.27 mmol) of dimethylcarbonate (freshly distilled) in dry benzene (20 ml).[...]
[3S*,5S*,6S*]-1,7-Dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane-3,5-diol
Authors: Brimble Margaret , Johnston Andrew
Published: December 2011

The reaction and the product ratio shown in the scheme was reported [1].[...]
3-(4-Iodo-phenylethynyl)-[1,10]phenanthroline
Authors: Michel Christoph , Habibi Davood , Schmittel Michael
Published: December 2011

The experimental procedure follows a protocol developed by Sonogashira [1].[...]
4-Ferrocenylaniline
Authors: Ping Hu , Zhao Ke-Qing , Xu Hong-Bo
Published: December 2011

The reduction of 4-nitropheneylferrocene with tin in acidic condition gives 4-ferrocenylaniline, which is an important intermediate for the synthesis of ferrocene-containing Schiff's base liquid crystals [1].[...]
3,5-Bis(trimethylsilyl)-4-thiophenoxypyridine
Authors: Kay A.J. , Woolhouse A.D.
Published: December 2011

Reaction of 3,5-bis(trimethylsilyl)-4-chloropyridine [1] with thiophenol gave 3,5-bis(trimethylsilyl)-4-thiophenoxypyridine, a potential precursor to novel pyridinylidene derived nonlinear optical materials.[...]
2-Cinnamyl-1,3-oxazole-4-carboxaldehyde p-Toluenesulfonyl Hydrazone
Authors: Ahmed Fahim
Published: December 2011

To a stirred solution of p-toluenesulfonhydrazide (0.61g, 3.3 mmol) in methanol/water (6:4, 20 ml) at 60°C was added 2-cinnamyl-1,3-oxazole-4-carboxaldehyde [1](0.50 g, 2.5 mmol).[...]
5-Methoxy-7,7-dimethyl-1,9(E),11-dodecatrien-3-ol
Authors: Smith Douglas
Published: December 2011

To a stirred solution of the diene aldehyde [1] in dry THF under Ar at -78 ƒC, vinylmagnesium bromide in THF was added via a syringe.[...]
4-Dodecyl-6-methyl-2-morpholone
Authors: Steiner Bohumil Steiner , Gajdos Jan , Koos Miroslav , Hassel Bjørnar
Published: December 2011

2-Morpholones may be synthesized from the corresponding beta-amino alcohols by heating with an alpha-halo ester [1].[...]
Ethyl (Z)-3-Methyl-5-phenyl-2-pentenoate
Authors: Stoermer Martin , Pinhey John
Published: December 2011

The synthetic procedure [1] has been presented elsewhere. Ethyl (Z)-3-methyl-5-phenyl-2-pentenoate was obtained (2.23 g, 23%) as a colourless oil.[...]
(Z)-3-Methyl-5-phenyl-2-pentenoic Acid
Authors: Stoermer Martin , Pinhey John
Published: December 2011

The general part of the experimental section [1] has been presented elsewhere.[...]
N-(5-Phenyl-2,4-pentadiynyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocarbazole
Authors: Hathaway Bruce
Published: December 2011

Under nitrogen, 2.09g of N-propargyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocarbazole [1], 0.2g of CuCl, 20 mL of 70% aqueous ethylamine, and 30 mL of 95% ethanol were combined and stirred.[...]
Benzyl-3-deoxy-3(phenethylamino) b-L-Xylopyranoside
Authors: Lugemwa Fulgentius , Denison Laura
Published: December 2011

A mixture of benzyl 2,3-anhydro-b-L-ribopyranoside (1) [1] (0.88 g, 4 mmol) and phenethylamine (5 mL) was gently refluxed.[...]
(1S,2S)-N-Benzyl-N-[(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)-(2-benzofuryl)methyl] Hydroxylamine
Authors: Merino Pedro , Franco Santiago , Merchan Francisco , Tejero Tomas
Published: December 2011

A cooled solution (-90°C) of benzofuran (0.354 g, 3 mmol) in THF (10 mL) was treated with butyllithium (2 mL of a 1.6 M solution in hexane, 3.2 mmol) under an inert atmopshere.[...]
(1R,2S)-N-Benzyl-N-[(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)-(2-benzothiazolyl)methyl] Hydroxylamine
Authors: Merino Pedro , Franco Santiago , Merchan Francisco , Tejero Tomas
Published: December 2011

A cooled solution (-90°C) of benzothiophene (0.402 g, 3 mmol) in THF (10 mL) was treated with butyllithium (2 mL of a 1.6 M solution in hexanes, 3.2 mmol) under an inert atmopshere.[...]
2-a, 3-b-Dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic Acid (Maslinic Acid)
Authors: Garcia-Granados Andres , Martinez Antonio , Moliz Juan , Parra Andres , Rivas Francisco
Published: December 2011

An industrial procedure has been established for the isolation of 2-alpha,3-beta-dihydroxyolean- 12-en- 28-oic acid (maslinic acid) starting from olive fruits (Olea europaea).[...]
(-)-b-D-18–Glucopiranosyl-9,15-dihydroxy Kaurenoate, a New Diterpene Glycoside from Ageratina vacciniaefolia
Authors: Torrenegra Rubén , Robles Jorge , Pedrozo Julio , Pescador Beatriz
Published: December 2011

From leaves and flowers of Ageratina vacciniaefolia we have isolated several compounds: a flavonoid, a diterpene and a new compound identified as (-)-b-D-18–glucopiranosyl-9,15-dihydroxy kaurenoate (see the formula).[...]
5-[p-(1-L-Phenylalanyloxy)ethoxyl]phenyl-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin
Authors: Liu Hai-yang , Hu Xi-ming , Liu Yi , Huang Jian , Ying Xiao , Wei Xiao-lan , Xu Nan
Published: December 2011

5-[p-(2-Bromo-1-ethoxy)]phenyl-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin (1) was prepared by previously published method [1].[...]
Diisopropyl 2,2'-Bipyridine-3,3'-dicarboxylate
Authors: Hadda T. Ben , Sam N. , Zahidi A.
Published: December 2011

2,2'-Bipyridine-3,3'-dicarboxylic acid (2) was prepared from 1,10-phenanthroline 1 by a literature procedure [1, 2].[...]
Snailase Preparation of Ginsenoside M1 from Protopanaxadiol-Type Ginsenoside and Their Protective Effects Against CCl4-Induced Chronic Hepatotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Ming , Zheng Yi-Nan , Li Jing , Wang Ying-Ping , Wang Yun-Jing , Gu Jian , Jin Ying , Wang Hui , Chen Li
Published: December 2011

To investigate the protective effects of protopanaxadiol-type ginsenoside (PDG) and its metabolite ginsenoside M1 (G-M1) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic liver injury in ICR mice, we carried out conversion of protopanaxadiol-type ginsenosides to ginsenoside M1 using snailase. The optimum time for the conversion was 24 h at a constant pH of 4.5 and an optimum temperature of 50 °C. The transformation products were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography and electrospray ion-mass spectrometry. Subsequently, most of PDG was decomposed and converted into G-M1 by 24 h post-reaction. During the study on hepatoprotective in a mice model of chronic liver injury, PDG or G-M1 supplement significantly ameliorated the CCl4-induced liver lesions, lowered the serum levels of select hepatic enzyme markers (alanine aminotransferase, ALT, and aspartate aminotransferase, AST) and malondialdehyde and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase in liver. Histopathology of the liver tissues showed that PDG and G-M1 attenuated the hepatocellular necrosis and led to reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration. Therefore, the results of this study show that PDG and G-M1 can be proposed to protect the liver against CCl4-induced oxidative injury in mice, and the hepatoprotective effect might be attributed to amelioration of oxidative stress.
The Dose-Effect of Icariin on the Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Fan Jun-Jun , Cao Liang-Guo , Wu Tao , Wang De-Xin , Jin Dan , Jiang Shan , Zhang Zhi-Yong , Bi Long , Pei Guo-Xian
Published: December 2011

Icariin had been reported as a potential agent for osteogenesis, but the dose-effect relationship needed further research to realize the clinical application of icariin. We isolated and purified human bone mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and stimulated them with different concentrations of icariin. The cytotoxicity of icariin was evaluated by the methylthiazolytetrazolium (MTT) assay method. The proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of such hBMSCs were investigated for different concentrations of icariin. We found that icariin had a dose-dependent effect on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs in a suitable concentration range from 10−9 M to 10−6 M, but at concentrations above 10−5 M, the cytotoxicity limited its use. The extremely low cost of icariin and its high abundance make it appealing for bone regeneration.
Mané Rutual en Locmariaquer (Morbihan). Enregistrement de gravures et simulations architecturales dans une tombe à couloir néolithique Mané Rutual (Locmariaquer, Morbihan) / Recording off engravings and architectural simulations in a neolithic passage tomb
Authors: Cassen Serge , Merheb Mouatassem , Lefèbvre Dominique
Published: December 2011

La tombe à couloir du Mané Rutual est l'une des premières, dès le début du XIXe siècle, à bénéficier de l'attention des savants intéressés par les signes gravés sur orthostates et dalles de couverture. Pourtant, plusieurs gravures inédites seront encore une fois découvertes durant cette campagne de relevés « numériques », soit sur des supports anciennement inventoriés, soit sur de nouvelles stèles (chambre).

Dans le droit fil de l'expérience menée sur le Mané Lud, les formes exactes des stèles seront restituées grâce à des procédés de levés topographiques et de traitement infographique des surfaces (3D). Ces méthodes ont permis de comprendre, entre autres, la dissymétrie de la figure immense du plafond (enlèvement ancien d'une plaque rocheuse qui a soustrait la « boucle » latérale de la figure) ; elles permettront également, un jour prochain nous l'espérons, de répliquer en d'autres lieux des fac-similés de ces représentations, gravures difficiles à reconnaître et dont la destruction insidieuse et sournoise impose l'organisation et la mise en œuvre rapide d'un indispensable et urgent processus de sauvetage.
Un dépôt de vases du Néolithique moyen aux Ressinières, commune d'Antran (Vienne) : une coupe à socle de tradition septentrionale en Centre-Ouest / A Middle Neolithic vessels depot from Les Ressinières in Antran (Vienne) : a northern tradition coupe à socle in Central-Western France
Authors: Rousseau Jérôme
Published: December 2011

A Middle Neolithic occupation was discovered in the course of an archaeological evaluation realised in Antran (dept. Vienne, France) before a commercial development. The material, found in river Vienne alluvium, consists of four Chassey vessels, of Northern style by decoration seen on a rare coupe à socle. These finds probably lied in a funerary or ritual pit whose limits remained unclear.