bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Democracy as an Open-ended Utopia
Authors: Friedman Steven
Published: April 2012

Utopian thought has been discredited because attempts to re-engineer society using Utopian formulae have invariably produced violence and despotism. But the apparent eclipse of Utopia has left a yawning gap, for economic and social conditions across the globe suggest a need for alternatives to the reigning social order - and thus for Utopian thinking which avoids the pitfalls of 'classical' Utopias. This needs to begin by recognising that the chief flaw in earlier Utopias is that they aspired to a world in which contention and conflict were banished. If Utopia is imagined as a state in which contest persists but in which all can contest equally without violence, it becomes a state in which democratic difference is not abolished - as in earlier Utopias - but in which it reaches its fulfillment. By conceptualising democracy as an 'openended' Utopia we can reconstruct the vision of an alternative which will legitimise neither violence nor the suppression of difference. Utopia is, in the mainstream of social and political thought, no longer seen as a subject for serious discussion. It is necessary that it become one again.
Relativism in Berlin's Cultural Pluralism
Authors: Siame Chisanga N.
Published: April 2012

A central argument of this article is that Isaiah Berlin's notion of cultural pluralism can be described as relativistic, and that he should not have repudiated the relativism, but simply defended it as part of the reality of the global constellation of cultures. Berlin's relativism emerges into a more generous light, in which radical differences among cultures occupy centre stage. Focusing on cultural relativism and its possible sources in Berlin unveils the neglected role that his famed concept of 'negative' liberty plays in assuring the distinctiveness of individual cultures and shared humanity, both of which constitute cultural pluralism. I conclude that Berlin's notion of cultural pluralism is relativistic based not only on substantive evidence, but also on a more realistic definition of the concept. Moreover, his conception of cultural pluralism and in particular its relativism highlight the subjects of cultural identity and autonomy in a world of immense power imbalances among nations and peoples.
A Reappraisal of Clinical Characteristics of Typhoid Fever
Authors: Alam ABM Shahidul , Zaman Sanjana , Chaiti Farhana , Sheikh Naveen , Kundu Gopen Kumar
Published: April 2012

Background: Recent reports from developing countries show that the clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of typhoid have significantly altered often leading to missed diagnosis. The incidence of complications is also reported to be variable. The consequence of missed diagnosis is immense in terms of burden on limited health resources and patients suffering. Therefore, its clinical spectrum requires constant reappraisal to update our physicians with current knowledge. This study was carried out to determine the changes in clinical pattern of typhoid fever. Patients & Methods: A total of 106 children, aged up to 14 years, diagnosed primarily as typhoid fever, were included as study population. The diagnostic criteria were either positive blood culture for Salmonella typhi or Salmonella paratyphi or at least a four-fold rise in antibody titre on Widal test. The study included mode of clinical presentations, treatment received before admission, Widal test findings and culture and sensitivity to antibiotics. Results: The mean age of the patients was 5.2 years and males were a little than the females. The mean duration of illness was 11.2±3.3 days. Majority of the patients presented with classical signs and symptoms like step ladder pattern of fever (nearly 70%) coated tongue (69.8%), diarrhoea (49.1%), toxemia (68.9%), relative leucopenia (71.7%), hepatomegaly (55.7%), pain in the right hypochondrium (41.5%) and splennomegaly (18.9%). Very few cases had a typical manifestations. Over 85% of the patients had raised SGPT (>40 IU/L) and 13.8% had detectable jaundice (serum billirubin >3 mg/dl). Widal test demonstrated that about 45% of the patients O antibody titer increased to 4-fold, 27.4% to 8-fold or more. In case of antibody H, 35.8% exhibited 4-fold and 39.7% 8-fold or more increase. Of the 103 cases, 68(66%) were positive for Salmonella typhi. Majority of the isolated organisms was sensitive to cefixime, ceftriaxone and gentamycin (83%, 84% and 82% respectively). The second line of sensitivity was obtained to amikacin (64.2%), meropenem (50%), ciprofloxacin (46.2%), imepenem (46.2%) and azithromycin (43.4%). The least sensitive drugs were amoxicillin (28.3%), cotrimoxazole (27.4%) and chloramphenicol (22.6%). Onethird (33.8%) of the patients had multidrug resistant (MDR) strains. However, No significant association was found between multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains and atypical clinical manifestations. Conclusion: Clinical presentation of most typhoid fever still conforms with the classic pattern. High fever, anorexia, coated tongue, diarrhoea, relative leucopenia and hepatosplenomegaly are still common manifestations of typhoid fever. So, majority of the patients could be treated blindly based on clinical diagnosis. However, treatment should be given with first line of drugs like cefexime or ceftriaxone. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3357/bjch.v34i3.10357 BJCH 2010; 34(3): 80-85
Determination of TOF Characteristics in a Tertiary Care Centre of Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir Jahangir , Rima Rezoana , Khatoon Soofia , Hassan Rezaul , Badruddoza AMM , Sheikh Naveen
Published: April 2012

Objective: Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the commonest cause of cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD) worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the demography, associated anomalies and status of peripheral pulmonary stenosis (PPS), type of operation, operative results and complications in TOF physiology patient. Materials & Methods: The records of 52 patients were reviewed. These patients were admitted from January 2007 to November 2009 in United Hospital Limited, Dhaka. Results: Male patients were 61.5% and females were 38.5%. The median age of surgery was 5 years and weight was 15 kg with severely undernourished patients were 27% and severely stunted were 11.5% respectively. Among the associated anomalies, percentage of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), patent foramen ovale (PFO) / atrial septal defect (ASD), right aortic arch (RAA), coronary artery (CA) anomalies and peripheral pulmonary artery stenosis were 57.7%, 26.9%, 21.2%, 11.5% and 13.5% respectively. 13.5% TOF physiology patient had severely hypoplastic pulmonary annulus, 38.4% had severely hypoplastic MPA. TOF was more common in B blood group patients. About 11.5% patients underwent palliative operation (Gore-tex shunt) as the first operation. The youngest case was 7 days and the oldest 7.5 years old. Corrective operation, TC (Total correction) was done in 94%cases. The youngest patient undergoing TC was 1.5 years and the oldest one was 40 years old. Transannular patch (TAP) was used in 24 cases (46%). Post surgical overall mortality rate was 23% in three year which was 17.3% in 1st year, 3.84% in 2nd year and 1.92% 3rd year. Conclusion: In this study total correction (TC) was done in most of the cases (94%) and this should be recommended as the preferred management strategy for TOF physiology patient. The mortality rate decreases significantly as the team get experienced. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v34i3.10358 BJCH 2010; 34(3): 86-91
Congenital Muscular Torticollis: A Descriptive Study of 16 Cases
Authors: Das Bijoy Krishna , Matin Abdul , Roy Ranjit Ranjan , Islam Md Rafiqul , Islam Rezaul , Khan Rita
Published: April 2012

Background and study aim: Torticollis is the postural deformity of head and neck. Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) is a postural deformity of head and neck detected at birth or shortly after birth, primarily resulting from unilateral shortening of Sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM). In neonates and infants, patient may be cured conservatively by physiotherapy but surgery is the treatment of choice for children and adolescents. There are various techniques of surgery. Division of both sternal and clavicular head of SCM is very easy method which was practiced in this study. Here we show our experience regarding conservative and surgical management of congenital muscular torticollis in neonates, infants and older children. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective case study among sixteen patients of congenital muscular torticollis. The cases were enrolled consecutively between Nov 2005 to Oct 2008 in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Gonosasthaya Somaj Vittik Medical College Hospital, ZH Sikder Womens Medical College Hospital and different private clinics of Dhaka city of Bangladesh. Neonates and infants of were treated conservatively with physiotherapy by manual stretching and others (more than one year) were treated surgically by transection of both sternal and clavicular head of SCM under ganeral anesthesia. Operated patients were released on following post operative day with advice to start physiotherapy on same day. Acquired torticollis, ocular torticollis, neurogenic torticllis, osteogenic torticollis, congenital muscular torticollis with other diseases were excluded from the study. Parents were the informants. Purpose of the study was explained and verbal consent was taken. Written consent was taken before surgical intervention. Results: Patients age ranged from 5 days to 15 years of which eleven were female and five male. SCM was shortened in all cases (9 on right side and 7 on left side). Of 16 patients, 3 neonates, 8 infants and 5 were more than 1 year of age. There was no associated anomaly. Out of 11 neonates and infants 10 cured conservatively with physiotherapy and another one significantly improved. Six were treated surgically including one failed physiotherapy till the age of one year. Post operative period was uneventful and there was no complication. Results were evaluated clinically and on the comments of parents. Conclusion: Most of the patients of congenital muscular torticollis can be treated conservatively during infancy. Division of both sternal and clavicular head of SCM is easy and safe surgical technique for the treatment of CMT of older children and adolescents. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v34i3.10359 BJCH 2010; 34(3): 92-98
Therapeutic Effect of Common Salt (Table/ Cooking Salt) on Umbilical Granuloma in Infants
Authors: Hossain AKM Zahid , Hasan Gazi Zahirul , Islam KM Didarul
Published: April 2012

Background: Umbilical granuloma is a common inflammatory reaction which occurs during falling of umbilicus. Some treatments of umbilical granuloma includes cauterization with silvernitrate and coppersulphate, use of alcohol, Cryo and electro cauterization and granuloma ligators. Objective: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of common salt (table/ cooking salt) on umbilical granuloma in infants. Methods: This was a clinical trail carried out on 48 infants with umbilical granuloma. The parents of 48 infants with umbilical granuloma were given instruction to treat their infants at home. The treatment consisted of application of common salt on the lesion twice a day, washed 30 minutes later and repeated for 3 days. Results: 44 out of 48 cases had perfect cure after the three day course of treatment. Conclusion: Our data showed that use of common salt in treating umbilical granuloma is simple, cost effective, curative and safe. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v34i3.10360 BJCH 2010; 34(3): 99-102
Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Hossain Md Nurul , Ferdaus Md Sarwar , Sultana Sabina , Basak Biplab Kumar , Ferdous Asma , Islam Tahmina
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v34i3.10362 BJCH 2010; 34(3): 113-117
Feeding Practices of Sick Newborns Admitted in Neonatal Ward of ICMH: Breast Milk as the Only Food
Authors: Akter Nasima , Khatoon Soofia , Khanom Wahida
Published: April 2012

Background: Breast milk is uniquely adopted most appropriate natural, preferred food for all infants including premature and sick newborns. It protects babies against many diseases and infections, better intelligence and greater academic achievement, lower risk for developing recurrent wheezing than children who were infant-formula fed. Objectives: The objective of the study is to see how early breast feeding could be started and when exclusive breast feeding could be established in admitted sick newborn. Materials and methods: This was a observational prospective study through a structured questionnaire conducted in Neonatal ward of Institute of Child and Mother Health. One hundred and sixty three sick newborns admitted in neonatal ward during November, 2005 to January, 2006 with weight more than 1200 gm, gestational age more than 32 weeks without major congenital anomaly were studied. Admitted babies were kept nill by mouth or nasogastric tube feeding and/or oral feeding as clinical condition permitted. Parenteral fluid was started as recommended daily fluid and gradually was advanced to oral or nasogastric tube feeding or spoon feeding of expressed breast milk as 1 to 3 hourly feeding which was individualized. During hospital stay, mothers were encouraged and motivated to breast feed and/or to expression of breast milk. Patients discharged when full breast feeding was established. Daily weight measurement and follow up were done after 7, 15, 30 days of discharge. Results: Among 330 admitted neonates, 163 were enrolled in this study. Mean age at presentation was 2.8 days. About one third of babies 55 (33.7%) had appropriate birth weight, seventy eight (47.8%) had perinatal asphyxia, and one third 55 (33.7%) had septicemia. Mean age of 1st feed was 2.9 days. Minimal and maximal days for initiation of breast feeding were 1st and 24th - day respectively. Mean days of full feeding was 3.6 days. About 67 (41%) of babies received and tolerated 1st feeding in between 24-72 hours and 48 babies (29.5%) in between 3rd-5th day. Out of 163 patients, weight gained in 22 (13%) babies during hospital stay. Average weight gain was 10 gram/day. Ninety two (55%) of study neonates needed assisted feeding with nasogastric tube. In spite of sickness breast feeding could be started in 22 (13.5%) neonates. Full feeding was established on 1st day in 44 (27%) of study neonates and in 80 (49%) neonates full feeding was established by 10 days. Expressed breast milk was from beginning in 66 (70%) of neonate. One hundred and thirty six neonates (83.4%) came for 1st follow up, 110 (67%) came for 2nd follow up, 144 (88%) babies came for 3rd follow up. Weight gain were found in 85%, 63.8%, 82% respectively. Conclusion: We can say from the present study that breast milk either by suckling or through nasogastric tube can safely be given to sick neonates under supervision and by that baby can maintained on normal weight gain. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10365 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 1-5
Pregnancy Outcome of Mothers who Used Smokeless Tobacco for Five Years or More
Authors: Hoque Mujibul , Rahman Md Ekhlasur , Dey Probhat Ranjan
Published: April 2012

Background: Approximately 39% women in Bangladesh use smokeless tobacco (ST). The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes like spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, preterm birth and delivery of low birth weight baby (LBW) are quite high in our country. Objective: To determine the frequency of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, delivery of preterm & LBW baby of mothers who used ST for prolonged period. Methodology: This retrospective cohort study was carried out in the Department of Paediatrics and Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, between July 2007 and June 2009. A total of 150 mothers using ST for 5 years or more & their recently delivered newborn infants (mother-neonate pair) satisfying the selection criteria were enrolled as cases by purposive sampling. 150 suitably matched mother-neonate pairs were enrolled as controls. Detailed history of each mother about the outcome of recent and previous pregnancy/ pregnancies within the last 5 years was taken meticulously. Physical examination of the mother was done thoroughly. Each newborn was assessed for birth weight and gestational age. Results: Baseline characteristics of cases and controls were comparable. Use of ST for > 5 years was significantly associated with spontaneous abortion (P < 0.01) and carried a risk of having spontaneous abortion 2.3 times more than that of non-ST users. It was also significantly associated with stillbirth (P < 0.01) and carried a risk of having stillbirth 2 times higher than that of non-ST users. Use of ST for > 5 years was significantly associated with preterm delivery (P < 0.001) and carried a risk of having preterm delivery 3.1 times more than that of non-ST users. It was also significantly associated with delivery of LBW baby (P < 0.001) and carried a risk of having delivery of LBW baby 4.1 times higher than that of non-ST users. Conclusion: Frequency of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, preterm delivery & delivery of LBW babies were much higher among mothers who used ST for about 7½ years. Women of child bearing age should be discouraged to use ST. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10366 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 6-10
Relationship of Childhood Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome with Asthma, Hypertension, Complement C3, Urinalysis
Authors: Roy Ranjit Ranjan , Islam Md Rafiqul , Matin Abdul , Khan Rita , Muinuddi Golam , Rahman Md Habibur , Hossain Md Moazzam
Published: April 2012

A prospective observational study of 43 children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) were selected randomly out of 480 children admitted with the disease at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2003 to January 2005. Aim of this study was to correlate the difference in frequency of atopic attack, hypertension, complement c3 level and urinalysis in different types of Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Result: Among 43 children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS), 24 children were steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) and 19 children having steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) cases, of SSNS group 13 were infrequent relapse nephrotic syndrome (IFRNS) and 11 were frequent relapse steroid dependant nephrotic syndrome (FRNS + SDNS). Bronchial asthma and allergic dermatitis were found in about 63% cases of both steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) and frequent relapse steroid dependant (FRNS+SDNS) group. Hypertension was found in higher number of patient in SRNS compared to SSNS (P> 0.05) It was absent in IFRNS. Steroid contributed more than the disease process in producing hypertension (P< 0.01). Complement C3 comparison among the group could not reach statistically significant level. Similarly, comparison of hematuria showed no difference among the groups but pyuria was higher in SRNS compared to IFRNS (P >0.05). UTI were found equally in all the groups. Conclusion: Higher incidence of asthma, atopic dermatitis were noted in all the groups of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). C3 was not found significantly low in INS. Persistent elevation of blood pressure is found in higher number of SRNS compared to SSNS and steroid contributed more than the disease process. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10367 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 11-15
Efficacy of Subcutaneous Methotrexate in JIA Patients Who have Failed to Improve with Oral Methotrexate
Authors: Talukder Manik Kumar , Begum Suraiya , Islam Md Imnul , Hossain Mahmuda , Nandi Eva Rani , Rahman Shahana A
Published: April 2012

Objective: To determine the efficacy of subcutaneous methotrexate in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) who failed to improve with oral methotrexate according to American College of Rheumatology 30 (ACR 30) improvement criteria. Design: Interventional Study. Setting: Rheumatology follow up clinic, Department of paediatrics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, during the period from July 2006 to December 2008 . Methods: Twenty five patients who failed to improve with oral methotrexate were switched to subcutaneous methotrexate. Dose of methotrexate were same in both oral and subcutaneous route, at a dose of 10 mg/m2/week as a single dose. Results: According to ACR 30 criteria 76% patients improved after switching over to subcutaneous route. Among the core set variables active arthritis had the highest percentage of improvement and laboratory criteria (ESR) showed lowest improvement. Conclusion: From this study it may be concluded that subcutaneous methotrexate could be effective in patients with JIA who failed to improve with oral methotrexate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10368 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 16-19
Is it Safe for a Mother Infected with Hepatitis B Virus to Breastfeed Her Baby?
Authors: Uddin Ahmed ASM Nawshad , Hoque Md Mahbubul
Published: April 2012

One third of the worlds population has been infected by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), causing an enormous burden of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatitis B virus is transmitted through contact with blood and blood products, by sexual contact, through close contact between children (horizontal transmission), or by perinatal transmission from a carrier mother to her baby. In Asia, perinatal transmission is the major mode of transmission and those who become infected perinatally with HBV are most likely to develop chronic infection. The question of whether breastfeeding by HBV-positive mothers is an additional mechanism by which infants may acquire HBV infection, has been asked for many years. Although small amounts of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) have been detected in some samples of breast milk, there is no evidence that breastfeeding by HBV-carrier mothers increase the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HBV. Infants born to known hepatitis B positive women should receive hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and hepatitis B vaccine, effectively eliminating any theoretical risk of transmission through breastfeeding. However, neither screening of pregnant women for HBV infection nor use of HBIG is feasible in most developing countries. Routine immunization of infants with hepatitis B vaccine is therefore recommended by the World Health Organization. Bangladesh has already included hepatitis B vaccine as part of routine childhood immunization in EPI program since 2003. Also the risk must be balanced against the increased risk of morbidity and mortality due to malnutrition and diarrheal or other infectious diseases associated with replacement feeding. Malnutrition is responsible, directly or indirectly, for 6.5 million under 5 deaths annually. Thus, even where HBV infection is highly endemic and immunization against HBV is not available, breastfeeding remains the recommended method of feeding. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10369 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 20-25
Diplopia and Acute Sixth Nerve Palsy in Hypervitaminosis A  A Case Report and a Review Literature
Authors: Anwar Sayeeda Sylvia , Rahman AKM Matiur , Bannerjee Manisha , Haque Azimul , Setu Mumtahina , Mohsin Md
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10372 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 36-37
Abstract from Current Literature v35i1
Authors: Editor The
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i1.10373 BJCH 2011; 35(1): 38-39
Detection of Antinuclear Antibody in Childhood Rheumatic Diseases by Immunofluorescence Assay and Enzyme Immuno Assay
Authors: Dipti Tanjeem Rabika , Azam Mohammad Shaiful , Sattar Mohammad Humayun , Rahman Shahana
Published: April 2012

Background: Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANAs) are specific antibodies directed against a variety of nuclear antigens. Indirect immunofluorecence (ANA-IFA) and Enzyme Immunoassay (ANA-EIA) are commonly used methods for ANA detection. The positivity of ANA-IFA using HEp-2 cell substrate is 90-100% in systemic rheumatic diseases. On the other hand positivity of ANA-EIA is found to be much lower in different studies. In Bangladesh most of the laboratories use ANA-EIA method.Objectives: To detect ANA by Immunofluorecence Assay (using HEp-2 cell substrate) and Enzyme Immuno Assay in childhood rheumatic diseases and to compare ANA positivity by these two methods.Materials and methods: Cross sectional comparative study. Total 40 patients of different childhood rheumatic diseases were enrolled in this study. Serum sample was collected and tested for detection of ANA by Immunofluorecence Assay using HEp-2 cell substrate and Enzyme Immuno Assay.Result: Among total 40 cases, 67.5% were ANA positive by IFA method and 27.5% were ANA positive by EIA method.Conclusion: ANA-IFA is superior to ANA-EIA for detection of ANA in childhood rheumatic diseases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10355Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 49-52
Anderson-Hynes Pyeloplasty in Children: Nonintubated Versus Intubated
Authors: Hasan Gazi Zahirul , Hossain AKM Zahid , Amin Md Ruhul , Hoque Shafiqul , Siddiqui MTH
Published: April 2012

Objective: To compare between nonintubated versus intubated Anderson-Hynes (AH) pyeloplasty in children.Study Design: Prospective studyStudy place: Department of Paediatric Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh and some private clinics of Dhaka city. Study period: March 2001 to December 2008.Subjects: A total of 75 patients were included in this study. They were divided in two groups. Nonintubated Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty was done in 45 patients and intubated Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty was done in 30 patients.Results: The anastomotic leakage of urine, urinary tract infection, hospital stay and improvement of differential renal function were assessed post operatively in both nonintubated and intubated groups. This study showed that there was no anastomotic failure and no post operative urinary tract infection in either group. The percentage of improvement of differential renal function is almost same in both the groups. The post operative hospital stay was markedly reduced in nonintubated Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty. In this study the post operative hospital stay in nonintubated group was average 6 days and it was average 16.5 days in intubated group.Conclusion: From this study it may be concluded that the effects of nonintubated AH pyeloplasty is as good as intubated one but an additional advantage of significantly less post operative hospital stay was observed in nonintubated group.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10378  Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 59-61
Oxygen Therapy in Neonate: A Vital Issue
Authors: Das Jagadish C , Shahidullah Mohammod , Mannan MA
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10379Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 62-67
Disseminated Nocardiosis in a Patient with Chronic Granulomatous Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Rahman M Ekhlasur , Rahman AKM Matiur , Rahman Mowshumi , Ali Md Ramzan , Chowdhury Abu Sayeed , Shams Nusrat , Haque Jalaluddin Ashruaful
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10380Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 68-70
Abstract from Current Literature Vol.35(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10382Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 75-76
Late Dr Mohammad Darul Islam: Short Life Sketch
Authors: Editor The
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v35i2.10383Bangladesh J Child Health 2011; Vol 35 (2): 78
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Calf- and Yearling-Fed Beef Production Systems, With and Without the Use of Growth Promotants
Authors: Basarab John , Baron Vern , López-Campos Óscar , Aalhus Jennifer , Haugen-Kozyra Karen , Okine Erasmus
Published: April 2012

A spring calving herd consisting of about 350 beef cows, 14–16 breeding bulls, 60 replacement heifers and 112 steers were used to compare the whole-farm GHG emissions among calf-fed vs. yearling-fed production systems with and without growth implants. Carbon footprint ranged from 11.63 to 13.22 kg CO2e per kg live weight (19.87–22.52 kg CO2e per kg carcass weight). Enteric CH4 was the largest source of GHG emissions (53–54%), followed by manure N2O (20–22%), cropping N2O (11%), energy use CO2 (9–9.5%), and manure CH4 (4–6%). Beef cow accounted for 77% and 58% of the GHG emissions in the calf-fed and yearling-fed. Feeders accounted for the second highest GHG emissions (15% calf-fed; 35–36% yearling-fed). Implants reduced the carbon footprint by 4.9–5.1% compared with hormone-free. Calf-fed reduced the carbon footprint by 6.3–7.5% compared with yearling-fed. When expressed as kg CO2e per kg carcass weight per year the carbon footprint of calf-fed production was 73.9–76.1% lower than yearling-fed production, and calf-fed implanted was 85% lower than hormone-free yearling-fed. Reducing GHG emissions from beef production may be accomplished by improving the feed efficiency of the cow herd, decreasing the days on low quality feeds, and reducing the age at harvest of youthful cattle.
Tall-Building Projects Sustainability Indicator (TPSI): A New Design and Environmental Assessment Tool for Tall Buildings
Authors: Nguyen Binh K. , Altan Hasim
Published: April 2012

The paper presents the features of Tall-building Projects Sustainability Indicator (TPSI)—a “Sustainability Rating System” that specializes in tall-building projects. The system comprises two components; the “Technical Manual” in the form of a booklet and the “Calculator” in the form of an Excel tool. It can be used as a “design tool” and/or as a “checklist” to compare and to improve the sustainable performance of tall-building design schemes. At the same time, the system can be used to evaluate the sustainability of existing tall-building projects. The first version of the TPSI rating system (TPSI 2012 Version) was released as an online tool (GreenLight) and thoroughly examined and validated by multiple parties.
Physical Activity Promotion in the Preschool Years: A Critical Period to Intervene
Authors: Goldfield Gary S. , Harvey Alysha , Grattan Kimberly , Adamo Kristi B.
Published: April 2012

The primary aim of this paper is to provide a rationale for the necessity of intervening with a physical activity intervention in the preschool years and why the daycare environment is amenable to such intervention. We also review the prevalence of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and obesity in the preschool population and the impact that these lifestyle behaviours and conditions have on the health of preschool aged children, as secondary objectives. Moreover we discuss implications for intervention and research using a “lessons learned” model based on our research team’s experience of conducting a randomized controlled trial aimed at increasing physical activity, reducing sedentary behaviour and improving motor skill development and body composition in preschoolers. Lastly, we make conclusions based on the literature and highlight issues and directions that need to be addressed in future research in order to maximize health promotion and chronic disease prevention in the pediatric population.
Are Changes in Consumption of “Healthy” Foods Related to Changes in Consumption of “Unhealthy” Foods During Pediatric Obesity Treatment?
Authors: Looney Shannon M. , Raynor Hollie A.
Published: April 2012

Increasing fruits and vegetables (FVs), a dietary recommendation for pediatric weight management, is theorized to reduce energy intake by reducing intake of more energy-dense foods, such as snack foods (SFs). This study examined the relationship between changes in FV, SF, and energy intake in children enrolled in a 6-month, family-based behavioral pediatric weight management trial. Secondary data analyses examined dietary intake in 80 overweight ( ≥ 85th to < 95th percentile for body mass index [BMI]) and obese ( ≥ 95th percentile for BMI) children (7.2 ± 1.7 years) with complete dietary records at 0 and 6 months. Participants were randomized to one of three treatment conditions: (1) increased growth monitoring with feedback; (2) decrease SFs and sugar sweetened beverages; or (3) increase FVs and low-fat dairy. With treatment condition controlled in all analyses, FV intake significantly increased, while SF and energy intake decreased, but not significantly, from 0 to 6 months. Change in FV intake was not significantly associated with change in SF consumption. Additionally, change in FV intake was not significantly related to change in energy intake. However, reduction in SF intake was significantly related to reduction in energy intake. Changing only FVs, as compared to changing other dietary behaviors, during a pediatric obesity intervention may not assist with reducing energy intake.
Parenting Styles and Home Obesogenic Environments
Authors: Johnson Rachel , Welk Greg , Saint-Maurice Pedro F. , Ihmels Michelle
Published: April 2012

Parenting behaviors are known to have a major impact on childhood obesity but it has proven difficult to isolate the specific mechanism of influence. The present study uses Baumrind’s parenting typologies (authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive) to examine associations between parenting styles and parenting practices associated with childhood obesity. Data were collected from a diverse sample of children (n = 182, ages 7–10) in an urban school district in the United States. Parenting behaviors were assessed with the Parenting Styles and Dimension Questionnaire (PSDQ), a 58-item survey that categorizes parenting practices into three styles: authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive. Parent perceptions of the home obesogenic environment were assessed with the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) instrument, a simple 10 item instrument that has been shown in previous research to predict risk for overweight. Cluster analyses were used to identify patterns in the PSDQ data and these clusters were related to FNPA scores and measured BMI values in children (using ANCOVA analyses that controlled for parent income and education) to examine the impact of parenting styles on risk of overweight/obesity. The FNPA score was positively (and significantly) associated with scores on the authoritative parenting scale (r = 0.29) but negatively (and significantly) associated with scores on the authoritarian scale (r = −0.22) and permissive scale (r = −0.20). Permissive parenting was significantly associated with BMIz score but this is the only dimension that exhibited a relationship with BMI. A three-cluster solution explained 40.5% of the total variance and clusters were distinguishable by low and high z-scores on different PSDQ sub-dimensions. A cluster characterized as Permissive/Authoritarian (Cluster 2) had significantly lower FNPA scores (more obesogenic) than clusters characterized as Authoritative (Cluster 1) or Authoritarian/Authoritative (Cluster 3) after controlling for family income and parent education. No direct effects of cluster were evident on the BMI outcomes but the patterns were consistent with the FNPA outcomes. The results suggest that a permissive parenting style is associated with more obesogenic environments while an authoritative parenting style is associated with less obesogenic environments.
The Influence of Local Food Environments on Adolescents’ Food Purchasing Behaviors
Authors: He Meizi , Tucker Patricia , Gilliland Jason , Irwin Jennifer D. , Larsen Kristian , Hess Paul
Published: April 2012

This study examined the relationship between the neighborhood food environment and the food purchasing behaviors among adolescents. Grade 7 and 8 students (n = 810) at 21 elementary schools in London, Ontario, Canada completed a questionnaire assessing their food purchasing behaviors. Parents of participants also completed a brief questionnaire providing residential address and demographic information. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to assess students’ home and school neighborhood food environment and land use characteristics. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the influence of the home neighborhood food environment on students’ food purchasing behaviors, while two-level Hierarchical Non-Linear Regression Models were used to examine the effects of school neighborhood food environment factors on students’ food purchasing behaviors. The study showed that approximately 65% of participants reported self-purchasing foods from fast-food outlets or convenience stores. Close proximity (i.e., less than 1 km) to the nearest fast-food outlet or convenience store in the home neighborhood increased the likelihood of food purchasing from these food establishments at least once per week by adolescents (p < 0.05). High fast-food outlet density in both home and school neighborhoods was associated with increased fast-food purchasing by adolescents (i.e., at least once per week; p < 0.05). In conclusion, macro-level regulations and policies are required to amend the health-detracting neighborhood food environment surrounding children and youth’s home and school.
Obesity, Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Amongst British and Saudi Youth: A Cross-Cultural Study
Authors: Al-Nakeeb Yahya , Lyons Mark , Collins Peter , Al-Nuaim Anwar , Al-Hazzaa Hazzaa , Duncan Michael J. , Nevill Alan
Published: April 2012

This study explores differences in weight status, obesity and patterns of physical activity (PA) in relation to gender and age of youth from two culturally, environmentally and geographically diverse countries, the United Kingdom (UK) and Saudi Arabia (SA). A total of 2,290 males and females (15–17 years) volunteered to participate in this study. Participants completed a validated self-report questionnaire that contained 47 items relating to patterns of PA, sedentary activity and eating habits. The questionnaire allows the calculation of total energy expenditure in metabolic equivalent (MET-min) values per week. Significant differences in percentage of overweight/obese and levels of PA were evident between the youth from the two countries, with males being generally more physically active than females. Additionally, there were significant associations between Body Mass Index (BMI), PA and sedentary behaviors; the youth with higher BMI reported lower levels of PA and higher amounts of sedentary time. These findings highlight the diverse nature of lifestyle of youth living in different geographical areas of the world and the need for further research to explore the socio-cultural factors that impact on the prevalence of obesity and patterns of PA of youth in different populations.
An Efficient Intergeneric Conjugation of DNA from Escherichia coli to Mycelia of the Lincomycin-Producer Streptomyces lincolnensis
Authors: Du Lei , Liu Rui-Hua , Ying Li , Zhao Guang-Rong
Published: April 2012

Streptomyces lincolnensis is a producer of lincomycin, which is a lincosamide antibiotic for the treatment of infective diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria. S. lincolnensis is refractory to introducing plasmid DNA into cells because of resistance of foreign DNAs and poor sporulation. In this study, a simple and efficient method of transferring plasmids into S. lincolnensis through the intergeneric Escherichia coli-mycelia conjugation was established and optimized for the first time. The recipient mycelia of S. lincolnensis were prepared in liquid SM medium containing 10.3% sucrose for three days. The dispersed mycelia were conjugated with competent E. coli donor cells. The exconjugants were regenerated efficiently on solid mannitol soya flour (MS) medium containing 20 mM MgCl2. The average conjugation frequency was observed at 1.1 × 10−4 per input donor cell and validated functionally by transferring two types of vectors containing lincomycin resistance genes lmrA, lmrB and lmrC into S. lincolnensis mycelia. The data of fermentation in shaking flasks showed the lincomycin yield of the exconjugants increased by 52.9% for the multiple copy vector and 38.3% for the integrative one, compared with the parental strain. The efficient and convenient method of intergeneric E. coli-mycelia conjugation in this study provides a promising procedure to introduce plasmid DNA into other refractory streptomycetes.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activities of 1-Alkyl-3-methacryloyl (Acryloyl) of Benzimidazolone (Thione) Derivatives
Authors: Wei Shaopeng , Wu Wenjun , Ji Zhiqin
Published: April 2012

A series of (28) 1-alkyl-3-methacryloyl (acryloyl)-benzimidazolone (thione) deriv-atives were synthesized. The structures of the new derivatives were confirmed by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and ESI-MS spectral analysis. The antibacterial activities of these compounds against several strains of bacteria, such as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were evaluated by methods of paper disc-diffusion and broth mciro-dilution. Methacryloyl derivatives displayed higher antibacterial activities against tested bacterial strains than those of acryloyl derivatives in in vitro tests. A structure-activity relationship (SAR) study revealed that the presences of the methacryloyl moieties is essential to the antibacterial activities of the compounds.
The Suzuki Reaction Applied to the Synthesis of Novel Pyrrolyl and Thiophenyl Indazoles
Authors: Migliorini Antonella , Oliviero Chiara , Gasperi Tecla , Loreto Maria Antonietta
Published: April 2012

The paper describes the Suzuki cross-coupling of a variety of N and C-3 substituted 5-bromoindazoles with N-Boc-2-pyrrole and 2-thiopheneboronic acids. The reactions, performed in the presence of K2CO3, dimethoxyethane and Pd(dppf)Cl2 as catalyst, gave the corresponding adducts in good yields. The methodology allows the facile production of indazole-based heteroaryl compounds, a unique architectural motif that is ubiquitous in biologically active molecules.
Sources and Determinants of Vitamin D Intake in Danish Pregnant Women
Authors: Jensen Camilla B. , Petersen Sesilje B. , Granström Charlotta , Maslova Ekaterina , Mølgaard Christian , Olsen Sjurdur F.
Published: April 2012

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with the development of several adverse health outcomes, e.g., pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm delivery, low birth weight, birth length, and bone mineral content. The aims of the present study were to estimate the intake and sources of vitamin D in Danish pregnant women and to examine potential determinants of vitamin D intake of the recommended level (10 µg per day). In 68,447 Danish pregnant women the mean ± SD for vitamin D intake was 9.23 ± 5.60 µg per day (diet: 3.56 ± 2.05 µg per day, supplements: 5.67 ± 5.20 µg per day). 67.6% of the women reported use of vitamin D supplements but only 36.9% reported use of vitamin D supplements of at least 10 µg. Supplements were the primary source of vitamin D for the two higher quartiles of total vitamin D intake, with diet being the primary source for the two lower quartiles. Determinants of sufficient total vitamin D intake were: high maternal age, nulliparity, non-smoking, and filling out of the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) during summer or fall. We propose that clinicians encourage vitamin D supplementation among pregnant women, with special focus on vulnerable groups such as the young, smokers and multiparous women, in order to improve maternal and fetal health both during and after pregnancy.
Radical-Scavenging Activity of Thiols, Thiobarbituric Acid Derivatives and Phenolic Antioxidants Determined Using the Induction Period Method for Radical Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate
Authors: Kadoma Yoshinori , Fujisawa Seiichiro
Published: April 2012

The radical-scavenging activities of two thiols, eight (thio)barbituric acid derivatives and six chain-breaking phenolic antioxidants were investigated using the induction period method for polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) initiated by thermal decomposition of 2,2’-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) and monitored by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The induction period (IP) for the thiols 2-mercaptoethanol (ME) and 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole (MMI) was about half that for phenolic antioxidants. Except for the potent inhibitor 5,5-dimethyl-2-thiobarbituric acid (3), the IP for thiobarbituric acid derivatives was about one tenth of that for phenolic antioxidants. The IP for 1,3,5-trimethyl-2-thiobarbituric acid (1) and 5-allyl-1, 3-dimethyl-2-thiobarbituric acid (7) was less than that of the control, possibly due to inhibition by a small amount of atmospheric oxygen in the DSC container. The ratio of the chain inhibition to that of chain propagation (CI/CP) for the thiols and thiobarbituric acid compounds except for 1, 3 and 7 was about 10 times greater or greater than that for phenolic compounds. A kinetic chain length (KCL) about 10% greater than that of the control was observed for 1, suggesting that 1 had chain transfer reactivity in the polymerization of MMA. The average molecular weight of polymers formed from thiobarbituric acid derivatives is discussed.
Endothelial Progenitor Cells Improve Directly and Indirectly Early Vascularization of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Driven Bone Regeneration in a Critical Bone Defect in Rats
Authors: Seebach C. , Henrich D. , Wilhelm K. , Barker J. H. , Marzi I.
Published: April 2012

Early vascularization of a composite in a critical bone defect is a prerequisite for ingrowth of osteogenic reparative cells to regenerate bone, since lack of vessels does not ensure a sufficient nutritional support of the bone graft. The innovation of this study was to investigate the direct and indirect effects of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and cotransplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the in vivo neovascularization activity in a critical size defect at the early phase of endochondral ossification. Cultivated human EPCs and MSCs were loaded onto β-TCP in vitro. A critical-sized bone defect (5 mm) was created surgically in the femoral diaphysis of adult athymic rat and stabilized with an external fixateur. The bone defects were filled with β-TCP, MSCs seeded on β-TCP, EPCs seeded on β-TCP, and coculture of MSCs and EPCs seeded on β-TCP or autologous bone of rat. After 1 week, the rats were sacrificed. Using quantitative CD34 immunohistochemistry as well as qualitative analysis of vascularization (staining of MHC and VEGF) in decalcified serial sections were performed by means of an image analysis system. Fluorescence microscopy analyzed the direct effects and indirect effects of human implanted EPCs for vessel formation at bone regeneration site. Formation of a primitive vascular plexus was also detectable in the β-TCP, MSC, or autologous bone group, but on a significantly higher level if EPCs alone or combined with MSCs were transplanted. Moreover, highest amount of vascularization were detected when EPCs and MSCs together were implanted. Early vascularization is improved by transplanted EPCs, which formed new vessels directly. Indeed the indirect effect of EPCs to vascularization is much higher. Transplanted EPC release chemotactic factors (VEGF) to recruit EPCs of the host and stimulate vascularization in the bone defect. Transplantation of human EPCs displays a promising approach to improve early vascularization of a scaffold in a critical bone defect. Moreover, coculture of EPCs and MSCs demonstrate also a synergistic effect on new vessel formation and seems to be a potential osteogenic construct for in vivo application.