bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Reported Physical Activity Is Associated With β-Cell Function in Mexican American Adults
Authors: Chen Zhanghua , Black Mary Helen , Watanabe Richard M. , Trigo Enrique , Takayanagi Miwa , Lawrence Jean M. , Buchanan Thomas A. , Xiang Anny H.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between self-reported physical activity (PA) and diabetes-related quantitative traits.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The observational cohort was 1,152 Mexican American adults with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, oral and intravenous glucose tolerance tests, and self-reported dietary and PA questionnaires. PA was categorized into three mutually exclusive groups according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services PA guidelines for Americans: low (vigorous <75 min/week and moderate <150 min/week), moderate (vigorous ≥75 min/week or moderate ≥150 min/week), and high (vigorous ≥75 min/week and moderate ≥150 min/week). Trends in PA groups were tested for association with metabolic traits in a cross-sectional analysis.

RESULTS

The participants’ mean age was 35 years (range, 18–66 years), mean BMI was 29.6 kg/m2, and 73% were female. Among them, 501 (43%), 448 (39%), and 203 (18%) were classified as having low, moderate, and high PA, respectively. After adjustment for age, a higher PA was significantly associated with lower 2-h glucose, fasting insulin, and 2-h insulin and greater β-cell function (P = 0.001, 0.0003, 0.0001, and 0.004, respectively). The association did not differ significantly by sex. Results were similar after further adjustment for age, sex, BMI, or percent body fat.

CONCLUSIONS

An increasing level of PA is associated with a better glucose and insulin profile and enhanced β-cell function that is not explained by differences in BMI or percent body fat. Our results suggest that PA can be beneficial to β-cell function and glucose regulation independent of obesity.
Cardiovascular Characteristics in Subjects With Increasing Levels of Abnormal Glucose Regulation
Authors: Capaldo Brunella , Di Bonito Procolo , Iaccarino Michele , Roman Mary J. , Lee Elisa T. , Devereux Richard B. , Riccardi Gabriele , Howard Barbara V. , de Simone Giovanni
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or the combination of IFG and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is associated with progressive abnormalities of cardiac geometry and function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 562 nondiabetic (311 women), nonhypertensive participants of the second Strong Heart Study exam, without prevalent cardiovascular (CV) disease and with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (age 46–65 years, 198 with isolated IFG [35%], and 132 with combined IFG and IGT [23%]). Anthropometric parameters, insulin resistance, fibrinogen, C-reactive protein (CRP), lipid profile, blood pressure (BP), and echocardiographic parameters were compared with 232 participants with normal glucose tolerance (NGT).

RESULTS

BMI, prevalence of central obesity, homeostatic model assessment index of insulin resistance, plasma triglycerides, fibrinogen, and CRP increased progressively across categories of glucose intolerance (P < 0.0001), with the IFG+IGT group having higher values than those with isolated IFG (0.05 < P < 0.0001). Compared with NGT, both IFG and IFG+IGT exhibited greater left ventricular (LV) mass (P < 0.0001) and lower Doppler early peak rapid filling velocity to peak atrial filling velocity ratio (P < 0.005), without differences in LV systolic function. The odds of LV hypertrophy (LV mass index >46.7 in women or >49.2 g/m2.7 in men) was 3.5 in IFG participants (95% CI 0.68–17.76; P = NS) and 9.76 (2.03–46.79; P = 0.004) in IFG+IGT, compared with NGT, after adjustment for age, sex, heart rate, systolic BP, and waist circumference (WC). In the overall sample, LV mass index was associated with WC (P = 0.033), CRP (P = 0.027), and 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (P = 0.001) independently of confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiometabolic profile and markers of inflammation are more severely altered in men and women with both IFG and IGT compared with those with IFG alone. These individuals, in the absence of hypertension, have a 10-fold greater probability of preclinical CV disease (LV hypertrophy).
Intraoperative antinociception and postoperative analgesia following epidural anesthesia versus femoral and sciatic nerve blockade in dogs undergoing stifle joint surgery
Authors: Caniglia Andrea M. , Driessen Bernd , Puerto David A. , Bretz Brian , Boston Raymond C. , Larenza M. Paula
Published: December 2012

Objective—To compare analgesic efficacy of preoperative epidural anesthesia with efficacy of femoral and sciatic nerve blockade in dogs undergoing hind limb orthopedic surgery.

Design—Prospective randomized blinded clinical study.

Animals—22 dogs requiring stifle joint surgery.

Procedures—Dogs were premedicated with acepromazine and morphine, and anesthesia was induced with diazepam and propofol and maintained with sevoflurane in oxygen. Prior to surgery, a combination of 1.0% lidocaine solution with 0.25% bupivacaine solution was administered either into the lumbosacral epidural space (11 dogs) or perineurally along the femoral and sciatic nerves (11). Intraoperative nociception was assumed if heart rate or systolic blood pressure increased by > 10% from baseline, in which case fentanyl (2 μg/kg [0.9 μg/lb], IV) was administered as rescue analgesia. Following recovery from anesthesia, signs of postoperative pain were assessed every 30 minutes for 360 minutes from the time of local anesthetic administration via the modified Glasgow pain scale. Patients with scores > 5 (scale, 0 to 20) received hydromorphone (0.1 mg/kg [0.05 mg/lb], IV) as rescue analgesia and were then withdrawn from further pain scoring.

Results—Treatment groups did not differ significantly in the number fentanyl boluses administered for intraoperative rescue analgesia. Time to administration of first postoperative rescue analgesia was comparable between groups. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between groups in baseline pain scores, nor were there significant differences at any other point during the postoperative period.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Femoral and sciatic nerve blocks provided intraoperative antinociception and postoperative analgesia similar to epidural anesthesia in dogs undergoing stifle joint surgery.
Effects of storage in formalin on composition of canine and feline uroliths
Authors: Albasan Hasan , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P. , Ulrich Lisa K. , Koehler Lori A.
Published: December 2012

Objective—To determine whether storage in neutral-buffered 10% formalin in vitro has any effect on the composition of biogenic minerals of canine and feline uroliths.

Design—Prospective in vitro study.

Sample Population—Canine and feline uroliths submitted to the Minnesota Urolith Center from 34 dogs and 27 cats.

Procedures—Submissions from each dog or cat consisted of multiple uroliths of a single mineral type. After retrieval from the urinary tract, none of the uroliths had been placed in a preservative before submission. Evaluated uroliths were exclusively composed of the following: only struvite (uroliths from 5 dogs and 5 cats), calcium oxalate (5 dogs and 5 cats), calcium phosphate apatite (5 dogs and 5 cats), cystine (5 dogs and 5 cats), ammonium urate (5 dogs and 5 cats), or silica (5 dogs). One urolith from each dog or cat was quantitatively analyzed by polarized light microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, or both. Another urolith from the same animal was immersed in 1 mL of neutral-buffered 10% formalin for 48 hours at room temperature (22.5°C). Uroliths exposed to formalin were then air-dried for 30 minutes, and the analysis was repeated.

Results—After exposure to formalin, a portion of every struvite urolith was transformed into newberyite. This was not observed with any other urolith mineral type. Quantitative mineral analysis of nonstruvite uroliths revealed no detectable change in mineral composition. However, 3 of 10 ammonium urate uroliths dissolved when placed in formalin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—To avoid misdiagnosis of mineral composition, uroliths should not be immersed in formalin prior to analysis.
Abdominal abscesses in adult horses: 61 cases (1993–2008)
Authors: Arnold Carolyn E. , Chaffin M. Keith
Published: December 2012

Objective—To determine clinical signs, diagnostic methods, treatment, and outcome for a series of adult horses with abdominal abscesses.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—61 adult horses.

Procedures—Medical records of adult horses with abdominal abscesses treated at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (1993 to 2008) were reviewed. Information was recorded regarding signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and short- and long-term outcomes. Risk factors for survival were determined.

Results—61 horses met the criteria for inclusion. Clinical signs included colic (67%), fever (46%), anorexia (51%), signs of depression (57%), tachycardia (46%), and weight loss (30%). The diagnosis was made on the basis of abdominal ultrasonography, exploratory celiotomy, palpation per rectum, and necropsy. Abscesses were variable in size, location, and number. Only 15 (24.6%) horses survived to discharge. Multiple bacterial isolates were identified from aspirates of abscesses, and subsequent abdominal adhesion formation limited survival, affecting outcome. Risk factors for survival included age and heart rate at admission.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Adult horses with abdominal abscesses often have severe adhesion formation. Multiple bacterial isolates are frequently identified from the abscess. Prognosis for survival is guarded.
The content of lead in herbal drugs and tea samples
Authors: Kaličanin Biljana , Velimirović Dragan
Published: December 2012

Heavy metals are highly toxic to living organisms even in low concentrations owing to their cumulative effect. In this study the overall content of lead in herbal drugs was determined, as well as the content of lead which was released from tested drugs during the preparation of tea drinks. To determine the content of toxic lead, the highly sensitive microanalytical technique of the potentiometric stripping analysis (PSA) with oxygen as the oxidant was used. The lowest overall content of lead was detected for chamomile and ranged from 0.73 to 0.77 µg/g, while the greatest content of lead was determined in the samples of the frangula bark, and yielded approximately 3 µg/g. The lead content in the prepared tea drinks ranged from 0.26 to 1.23 µg/g and depended on the manner in which tea drink was prepared. All of the herbal drugs in this study contain a certain amount of the toxic metal lead, but at the same time, the contents were below the levels prescribed for this metal. The content of lead released from the herbal drug into the tea drink was three to five times lower than those of the overall content of this metal.
Diptera associated with sporocarps of Meripilus giganteus in an urban habitat
Authors: Roháček Jindřich , Ševčík Jan
Published: December 2012

The Diptera community associated with fruit bodies of the wood-decaying fungus Meripilus giganteus (Pers.) P. Karst., 1882 was investigated in two city parks in Opava (Czech Republic, Central Europe) during the years 2009 and 2010. A total of 10,451 adult specimens of Diptera belonging to 66 species and 17 families emerged from this fungus during our rearing experiments. The six most dominant species, Coboldia fuscipes (Meigen, 1830) (D=50.70%), Drosophila funebris (Fabricius, 1787) (D=21.40%), Logima satchelli (Quate, 1955) (D =14.16%), Forcipomyia squamigera Kieffer, 1916 (D=5.48%), Lycoriella ingenua (Dufour, 1839) (D=2.96%) and Apteromyia claviventris (Strobl, 1909) (D=0.95%) represented 95.65% of all reared specimens. Altogether 59 species were reared from M. giganteus for the first time. Comments on host specialization, degree of synynthropy and other aspects of biology of particular species are provided. The qualitative composition of the fly community associated with M. giganteus in an urban habitat, causes of high species richness, and the predominance of polysaprophagous species in the reared material are discussed. The accidentally reared {itOrnitholeria nidicola} Frey, 1930 (Chiropteromyzidae) represents the first family record from the Czech Republic and the first record of the species from Central Europe.
Coniochaeta prunicola — first record for Slovakia and Europe
Authors: Ivanová Helena , Bernadovičová Slávka
Published: December 2012

This study reports the first record of Coniochaeta on Laurocerasus officinalis Roem. from the Nitra district. This is the first record of Coniochaeta for Slovakia and also for Europe. The fungus Coniochaeta prunicola Damm & Crous (Coniochaetales, Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) was isolated from damaged leaves and twigs of host trees. Morphological analyses demonstrate that Coniochaeta prunicola and Coniochaeta velutina are distinct species.
Evaluation of Verbascum species and harpagoside in models of acute and chronic inflammation
Authors: Dimitrova Petya , Georgiev Milen , Khan Mahmud , Ivanovska Nina
Published: December 2012

Verbascum species are widely used in folk medicine because of their broad range of biological activities. Harpagoside, an iridoid glycoside isolated from some Verbascum plants is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the effect of five extracts of Verbascum species and harpagosides were evaluated in mouse models of acute and chronic inflammation. The results demonstrate that Verbascum phoeniceum extract strongly inhibits COX-1 (60.2% inhibition vs PMA-stimulated cells) and COX-2 (44.8% inhibition) expression stimulated peritoneal macrophages resulting in reduced paw swelling in carrageenan-induced oedema (55.5% inhibition vs PBS-treated mice). Harpagoside ameliorated the development of zymosaninduced arthritis and reduced pathological changes in joints as shown by the decreased histological score for cell infiltration in synovial cavity (3.5±0.2 in vs 2.0±0.16), cartilage loss (2.5±0.3 vs 1.8±0.5) and bone resorption (2.4±0.2 vs 1.8±0.4). Molecular docking simulations of harpagoside suggest that it may function with increased specific affinity towards COX-1 than COX-2. The potential of harpagoside to be applied as an effective agent for treating joint-related disorders is discussed.
Microbial activity in drinking water-associated biofilms
Authors: Farkas Anca , Dragan-Bularda Mihail , Muntean Vasile , Ciataras Dorin , Tigan Stefan
Published: December 2012

Microbial biofilms from surfaces in contact with water may play a beneficial role in drinking water treatment as biological filters. However, detrimental effects such as biofouling (i.e., biocorrosion and water quality deterioration) may also occur. In this study microbiological processes and factors influencing the activity of bacteria in biofilms were investigated by conventional cultivation methods. The presence of bacteria belonging to different ecophysiological groups was assessed during drinking water treatment, in biofilms developed on concrete, steel and sand surfaces. Influences of the treatment process, type of immersed material and physico-chemical characteristics of raw/bulk water and biofilms upon the dynamics of bacterial communities were evaluated. Results revealed intense microbial activity in biofilms occurring in the drinking water treatment plant of Cluj. Ammonification, iron reduction and manganese oxidation were found to be the predominant processes. Multiple significant correlations were established between the evolution of biofilm bacteria and the physico-chemical parameters of raw/ bulk water. The type of immersed material proved to have no significant influence upon the evolution of microbial communities, but the treatment stage, suggesting that the processes applied restrict microbial growth not only in bulk fluid but in biofilms, too.
Herpes simplex and Ebstein Barr virus encephalitis complicated with Klüver-Bucy syndrome
Authors: Stojanović Vesna , Kozić Duško , Mudrinić Tatjana , Doronjski Aleksandra , Spasojević Slobodan , Njagulj Vesna
Published: December 2012

A case of sixteen-year-old boy with initial herpes simplex virus (HSV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) encephalitis is reported. Herpesviruses are often found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) along with EBV. After eradication of HSV in CSF in this case, a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to EBV in CSF remained along with a severe clinical picture (segmental myoclonus and Klüver-Bucy syndrome) and worsening of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Neurological and psychological improvement occurred after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin.
Alkali pre-treatment of Sorghum Moench for biogas production
Authors: Michalska Karina , Ledakowicz Stanisław
Published: December 2012

This work studies the influence of the alkali pre-treatment of Sorghum Moench — a representative of energy crops used in biogas production. Solutions containing various concentrations of sodium hydroxide were used to achieve the highest degradation of lignocellulosic structures. The results obtained after chemical pre-treatment indicate that the use of NaOH leads to the removal of almost all lignin (over 99 % in the case of 5 mass % NaOH) from the biomass, which is a prerequisite for efficient anaerobic digestion. Several parameters, such as chemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon, total phenolic content, volatile fatty acids, and general nitrogen were determined in the hydrolysates thus obtained in order to define the most favourable conditions. The best results were obtained for the Sorghum treated with 5 mass % NaOH at 121°C for 30 min The hydrolysate thus achieved consisted of high total phenolic compounds concentration (ca. 4.7 g L−1) and chemical oxygen demand value (ca. 45 g L−1). Although single alkali hydrolysis causes total degradation of glucose, a combined chemical and enzymatic pre-treatment of Sorghum leads to the release of large amounts of this monosaccharide into the supernatant. This indicates that alkali pre-treatment does not lead to complete cellulose destruction. The high degradation of lignin structure in the first step of the pre-treatment rendered the remainder of the biomass available for enzymatic action. A comparison of the efficiency of biogas production from untreated Sorghum and Sorghum treated with the use of NaOH and enzymes shows that chemical hydrolysis improves the anaerobic digestion effectiveness and the combined pre-treatment could have great potential for methane generation.
Printing polyaniline for sensor applications
Authors: Crowley Karl , Smyth Malcolm , Killard Anthony , Morrin Aoife
Published: December 2012

In recent years, much research has focused on the development of low-cost, printed electrochemical sensor platforms for environmental monitoring and clinical diagnostics. Much effort in this area has been based on utilising the redox properties of conducting polymers, particularly polyaniline (PANI). In tackling the inherent lack of processability exhibited by these materials, several groups have examined various mass-amenable fabrication approaches to obtain suitable thin films of PANI for sensing applications. Specifically, the approaches investigated over the years include the in situ chemical synthesis of PANI, the use of sulphonated derivatives of PANI and the synthesis of aqueousbased nano-dispersions of PANI. Nano-dispersions have shown a great deal of promise for sensing applications, given that they are inkjet-printable, facilitating the patterning of conducting polymer directly to the substrate. We have shown that inkjet-printed films of PANI can be finely controlled in terms of their two-dimensional pattern, thickness, and conductivity, highlighting the level of precision achievable by inkjet printing. Utilising these nanomaterials as inkjet-printable inks opens novel, facile, and economical possibilities for conducting polymer-printed electronic applications in areas of sensing, but also many other application areas such as energy storage, displays, organic light-emitting diodes. Given that inkjet-printing is a scalable manufacturing technique, it renders possible the large-scale production of devices such as sensors for a range of applications. Several successes have emerged from our work and from the work of others in the area of applying PANI in low-cost sensor applications, which is the focus of this review.
Registration of Tx3362 Sorghum Germplasm
Authors: Rooney William L. , Rooney Lloyd W. , Awika Joseph , Dykes Linda
Published: December 2012

The sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] germplasm Tx3362 (Reg. No. GP‐730, PI 666120) was developed and released by the Texas AgriLife Research sorghum breeding program in January 2012. This germplasm line is unique because the pericarp of the grain is essentially black when the plants are grown in normal field conditions. The dark color results in very high levels of 3‐deoxyanthocyanins in the pericarp of the grain, and this class of compounds has been classified as an antioxidant. Therefore, the grain of Tx3362 has potential use and application as a natural colorant and source of antioxidants. Because these compounds are present in the pericarp, they are easily concentrated by simply decorticating the grain and collecting the resulting bran. Tx3362 sorghum germplasm can be used as a line per se to produce grains rich in 3‐deoxyanthocyanins or as a breeding parent to produce additional lines with this unique characteristic.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD); What should we do?
Authors: Khan A Whohab
Published: December 2012

Patient and the general people expect that doctors remain up-to-date and professionally competent. The formal undergraduate and postgraduate education and training are conducted to bring a behavioral change in a medical practitioner to meet that expectation. The rate and magnitude of change in medical science is such that the contents of text books are not sufficiently up-to-date rather somewhat out of date at the time of publication. CME is continuing education in knowledge and skill of medical practice through which doctors will remain up-to date. Due to rapid changes in health care delivery system; health professionals needs to transform from a continuing education (CME) to a continuous professional development (CPD) model so that they remain up-to-date in their knowledge and competency in total care. CPD is a broader concept for continuing development of multifaceted competencies inherent in medical practice including medical, managerial, social and personal subjects which are needed for high quality professional performance in modern health care delivery system. CPD is complementary to formal undergraduate and postgraduate education; completing the educational trilogy. Undergraduate and postgraduate medical education is regulated by specific rules and regulation but CPD is the process where the responsibility rests on professionals and individual doctor. People expect what is best rather than what is right for a particular situation and for that level; professional competence should be combined with improvisation and general oversight. That is why, all over the world the concept of CPD is emerging and developing as a dynamic educational process to improve and upgrade ones professional performance. As a part of the global resident we should be familiar to cope with and should be trying to contribute in these progress and development. This article will help us to initial understanding and formulating an approach to that. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjme.v1i1.12857 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.1(1) 2010 pp.37-44
Transfusion Transmitted Hepatitis B Virus among Multitransfused Thalassaemic Children in a Tertiary Health Care Centre in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Firoz Salehuddin , Joarder Md Sahab Uddin , Islam Md Nazrul , Akter Mursheda , Kamal Ishaque Mahmud
Published: December 2012

Background: Repeated blood transfusion is the main life line support for thalassaemic children and so they are more prone to be infected with HBV. In Bangladesh the main source of blood for transfusion is the professional donors and so the possibility of HBV infection is higher. Objective: To assess the frequency of HBV among children who received more than 3 blood transfusions. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional analytical study was conducted in Pediatrics ward of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka during the period of July 2003 to June 2004. Ninety five children aged less than 15 years, suffering from ? thalassaemia major and Hb E ? thalassaemia having blood transfusion more than three times and 20 controls of similar age and sex were included in this study. Seromarkers of HBV were tested and the results were analyzed using SPSS version Windows 11.0. Results: Out of 115 children 68 were ? thalassaemic (mean age 6.8 ± 2.84 yrs and male:female is 4.2:1), 27 were Hb E ? thalassaemic children (mean age 8.78 ± 2.99 yrs and M:F 1.4:1) and 20 were nontransfused, age and sex matched controls (mean age 6.23 ± 1.88 yrs and M:F 1:2.3). Out of 95 thalassaemic children 21 (22.1%) were positive for HBsAg. Among them 13 were ? thalassaemic and 8 were Hb E ? thalassaemic. None of the controls showed HBsAg positivity indicating a significant statistical difference (p=0.033). 28 (29.5%) children were positive for anti-HBc. Among them 23 were ? thalassaemic and 5 were Hb E ? thalassaemic and there was no core antigen positivity among the controls showing a significant statistical difference (p=0.022). Four (4.2%) patients showed HBeAg positivity, out of whom 3 were ? thalassaemic and 1 was Hb E ? thalassaemic. But this antigen was not found in any control and thereby, no statistical significant difference was observed (p=0.637). Among 20 controls, 2 were positive for anti-HBe antibody, but none of the thalassaemic children was positive for this antibody showing statistically significant difference (p=0.008). Conclusion: A significantly higher sero-prevalence of hepatitis B viral marker was observed among the multitransfused thalassaemic children. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12838J Enam Med Col 2012; 2(2): 56-61
Effects of Education Level of Father and Mother on Perceptions of Breastfeeding
Authors: Banu Bilkis , Khanom Khurshida
Published: December 2012

Background: It is well known that education level of father and mother is an important factor to achieve breastfeeding. But, according to some literature, there is still controversy that education of parents is really a major factor for perceptions of breastfeeding. Objective: To determine the effects of education level of father and mother on perception or knowledge of breastfeeding. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in the selected areas of Dhaka city amongst all (202) mothers and fathers of the children of 2 years or more than 2 years of age. Data were collected through pretested questionnaire by face to face interview. Data were analyzed by appropriate univariate analysis. Results: Among the study subjects majority of mothers (49.5%) were of secondary and higher secondary levels and fathers (35.6%) were of graduate and above level of education. Educated mothers (secondary 72% and graduate 90.9%) were more likely to give colostrums to their babies than illiterate mothers (38.9%). Although duration of exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding were not associated with maternal education, but knowledge on breastfeeding was highly significant (good knowledge) for higher educated parents (mothers 63.6% and fathers 52.8%) as compared to illiterate or low educated parents (P<0.001). Majority of parents got information from doctors/health workers rather than book or other sources regarding usefulness of breast milk.Conclusion: The study reveals that perceptions of breastfeeding are higher in educated parents than illiterate parents. To reach at an ever satisfactory level of breastfeeding practice, more attention and education need to be given amongst the general people. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12840 J Enam Med Col 2012; 2(2): 67-73
Ice-on-Eyes Test in the Diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Haque Nazmul , Parvin Rukhsana , Ahmed Naser , Uddin AKM Rafique
Published: December 2012

Myasthenia gravis is the most frequent autoimmune neuromuscular transmission disorder  with incidence of 2-20 patients per million. Its pathophysiology is autoimmune, with  acetylcholine receptor auto antibodies damaging the post-synaptic fold at the muscle  membrane. The diagnostic confirmation of myasthenia gravis is often challenging. Ice-oneyes  test can be used to diagnose this disease for its simplicity, safety and cost-effectiveness. Here we report a case of myasthenia gravis in Enam Medical College Hospital, Savar, Dhaka where ice-on-eyes test was done with improvement of ptosis of the patient. Aim of this case  report is to make aware our physicians to apply this simple bed side test instead of common  traditional edrophonium (tensilon test) test for confirmation of the diagnosis of ocular myasthenia gravis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12845 J Enam Med Col 2012; 2(2): 92-93
Ductography: The Diagnostic Procedure of Choice in Patients with Abnormal Nipple Discharge
Authors: Rupa Sharmin Akhtar , Ishrat Mahbooba , Shahid Sonia
Published: December 2012

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12848 J Enam Med Col 2011; 1(2): 97
CPD Programme
Authors: Datta Pran Gopal
Published: December 2012

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v2i2.12849 J Enam Med Col 2011; 1(2): 98
How Often Excitation Precipitates Seizure? Relative Difference of Frequency and Significance in Different Types of Epilepsy
Authors: Rahman KM , Chowdhury RN , Hasan ATMH , Ayaz KFM , Miah T , Alam B , Mohammad QD
Published: December 2012

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, which presents with recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizure occurs spontaneously usually, but there may be association of various triggers. These triggers may act as seizure precipitating factors (SPFs). Objective: To find out the frequency of excitation as a SPF and its relationship to different types of epileptic patients attending Neurology and Medicine outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: This was a cross sectional study carried out in specialized epilepsy weekly outdoor clinic of Neurology and Medicine outpatient department (OPD) of Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 2008 to July 2011. Epilepsy syndromes were broadly classified into four categories using the classification system of International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) namely, generalized epilepsy (GE), localization related epilepsy (LRE), symptomatic and unclassified. Each patient was evaluated and classified by consultant neurologist. All participants were interviewed through a predesigned close ended questionnaire to identify frequency of excitation as a SPF. Result: Among all the patients 71.5% were male, with most common age group at the time of interview was 11-20 years (36.8%). About 62% could identify at least one precipitator. Excitation (25.2%) was the most common SPF reported by patients followed by emotional stress in 17.7%. Excitation was found to be significantly associated with generalized epilepsy (p<.000). Conclusion: Most of the patients can identify their seizure precipitant. Excitation showed a strong association with generalized epilepsy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12748 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 143-146
Patterns of Nonarticular Rheumatism in a Rural Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan M Masudul , Haq Syed Atiqul , Choudhury Minhaj Rahim , Islam Md Nazrul , Das Aparna , Banik Gobinda , Mondal Mohammed Tawhidul Islam , Ali Md Rustom
Published: December 2012

Objectives: Estimate the prevalence of nonarticular (soft tissue) rheumatism in a rural population of Bangladesh. Methods: The survey was carried out in eight villages of Sonargaon upazila of Narayanganj district about 30 kilometers from Dhaka. All subjects of both genders (5217) of ?15 years old of 8 villages were evaluated. Door to door survey was done to cover missing cases. Trained field workers identified subjects with musculoskeletal pain using Bengali version of the COPCORD (Community Oriented Program for the Control of Rheumatic Disease) questionnaire. Positive respondents were examined by trained internist and rheumatologists for definite non articular rheumatic disorders. COPCORD guideline was used for diagnosis. Results: MSK pains (positive respondent) were 1260 (24.2%) in out of 5217 (male 2556, female 2661). Among of them definite soft tissue rheumatic diseases were identified in 439 (male 102 and female 337). Major occupations were house wives (54.7), weavers (18%), and peasants (5.1%). Definite point prevalence of nonarticular rheumatism was 8.41% (male 3.7%, female 11.09%). The most common diseases were fibromyalgia (3.95%), repetitive strain injury (2.3%), nocturnal muscle cramp (0.59%), myofascial neck pain (0.48%), planter fasciitis (0.46%). Conclusion: Prevalence of nonarticular rheumatism is common in this rural community. Fibromyalgia is the leading disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12752 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 165-169
Acute Kidney Injury due to Rhabdomyolysis Followed by Alcohol Intake and Physical Aggression: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Daher Elizabeth De Francesco , Lima Neiberg De Alcantara , Lima Rafael Siqueira Athayde , Filgueira Pedro Henrique de Oliveira , Kretzman Meissa , Sindeaux Ticiano Adler de Sousa , Júnior Geraldo Bezerra da Silva
Published: December 2012

Rhabdomyolysis is defined as a skeletal muscle injury, with subsequent release of cellular constituents into the extracellular fluid and the circulation. Several conditions can lead to rhabdomyolysis, and new causes are constantly expanded with new case reports. The aim of this paper is to report on a case of acute kidney injury (AKI) induced by rhabdomyolysis due to alcohol abuse and physical agression. A 48-year-old man was admitted to the emergency room with dyspnea, lower limbs edema, weakness, oliguria and dark brown urine. Four days before admission he was physically attacked, after drinking almost 2.5 liters of beer. The diagnosis of AKI due to rhabdomyolysis was made through clinical and laboratory findings (creatine kinase 184,376 IU/l, serum urea 275 mg/dL, creatinine 14.6 mg/ dL, potassium 7.9 mEq/L). Urgency hemodyalisis was started due to anuria, refractory hiperkalemia and hypercatabolism. Recovery of renal function was recorded, after fourteen hemodialysis sessions. Patients with rhabdomyolysis are common in the emergency room. Initial therapy of fluid replacement is essential to prevent progression to renal failure. Once established, the dialysis is indicated early. The prognosis is good, when early supportive therapy is adequate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12759 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 212-215
Ovarian Mucinous Cystadenoma Presenting as Pseudo-Meigs Syndrome
Authors: Shahiduzzaman Gazi Khan Md , Chowdhury Poritosh Kumar , Paik Bishnupada , Biswas Sankar Proshad , Islam Rafiqul
Published: December 2012

Meigs syndrome is defined as the co-existence of benign ovarian tumor with ascites and hydrothorax that resolves after resection of tumor. The ovarian tumor in Meigs syndrome is fibroma. On the contrary, Pseudo- Meigs syndrome is characterized by the co-existence of hydrothorax, ascites and ovarian tumor either benign or malignant other than ovarian fibroma. The case herein concerns a 70 year old postmenopausal woman presented with the complaints of progressive shortness of breath on exertion and progressive swelling of lower abdomen. Her clinical and radiological examination revealed a massive right sided pleural effusion, mild ascites and a large heterogeneous pelvic mass with solid and cystic components, suggestive of left ovarian tumor. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy with excision of tumor, right ovary and whole of the uterus. The tumor was diagnosed histologically as an ovarian mucinous ystadenoma. Postoperative resolution of hydrothorax and ascites confirmed the diagnosis of Pseudo-Meigs syndrome. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12760 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 216-218
Cornual Pregnancy
Authors: Wazed F , Sultana N , Ahamed S , Khan JH , Rouf S , Mojumder U
Published: December 2012

Cornual pregnancy is rare form of ectopic pregnancy where implantation occurs in the cavity of a rudimentary horn of the uterus. It is the diagnostic and therapeutic challenge with potential sever consequence if uterine rupture occurs with massive intra abdominal haemorrhage .We report a case of misdiagnosed rupture cornual pregnancy occurring at 12 weeks gestation. First USG revealed intra uterine pregnancy. Repeat USG showed abdominal pregnancy sac but cornual pregnancy was not diagnosed and uterine anomaly was not detected. The correct diagnosis was made at emergency laparotomy. An intact pregnancy sac of 12weeks fetus was seen in abdominal cavity. Placenta and pregnancy sac was adherent to omentum and torn end of left cornu of the bicornuate uterus. Left sided cornu was resected keeping both the ovaries and tubes intact. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12763 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 227-229
Noonan Syndrome Presenting as Lymphoedema Precox
Authors: Haque Md Azizul , Sharmin Laila Shamima , Amin Zahid , Ekram ARM Saifuddin
Published: December 2012

Noonan Syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by short stature, typical facial features and congenital heart defects. Other associated features are webbed neck, chest deformity, mild intellectual deficit, cryptorchidism, bleeding tendency and lymphatic dysplasia. We are reporting a 13 year old boy of Noonan syndrome presenting with lymphoedema of lower limb and genitalia. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jom.v13i2.12771 J Medicine 2012; 13 : 243-245
Improved Sustainability through Novel Water Management Strategies for Strawberry Transplant Establishment in Florida, United States
Authors: Santos Bielinski , Stanley Craig , Whidden Alicia , Salame-Donoso Teresa , Whitaker Vance , Hernandez-Ochoa Ixchel , Huang Pei-Wen , Torres-Quezada Emmanuel
Published: December 2012

Establishing bare-root transplants in Florida, United States, is an inefficient water-consuming activity. Between 3500 and 5500 m3/ha are applied with sprinkler irrigation to lower temperatures around the transplant crown and aid early root development, but more than 97% of the water volume runs off the polyethylene-covered beds. Research has been conducted to evaluate the feasibility of producing containerized (plug) short-day cultivar transplants under Florida conditions, the effect of continuous and intermittent low-volume sprinklers on transplant establishment and the use of kaolin clay to reduce stress on young transplants. Research results demonstrated that growers may have alternatives to reduce water use and pumping costs during strawberry transplant establishment by the following: (a) plug transplants can be produced from mother plants from Florida’s subtropical weather without chilling conditioning and still be competitive in the winter market; (b) using continuous and intermittent low-volume sprinkler irrigation saves between 16% and 33% of the water volumes for strawberry establishment; and (c) using kaolin clay showed to be a low-cost (US$63/ha plus application costs) investment to reduce irrigation volumes by at least 30%.
On the Equilibria of Generalized Dynamical Systems
Authors: Postolică Vasile
Published: December 2012

This research work presents original properties of the equilibrium critical (ideal) points sets for an important class of generalized dynamical systems. The existence and significant results regarding such points are specified. Strong connections with the Vector Optimization by the Efficiency and the Potential Theory together with its applications following Choquet’s boundaries are provided.
From a Literature Review to an Alternative Treatment System for Landfill Gas and Leachate
Authors: Zhao Rui , Huang Tao , McGuire Michael
Published: December 2012

This paper provides an alternative treatment system for landfill gas and leachate control in order to reduce the energy consumption and disposal cost, using the recycled landfill gas as the combustion promoter for incineration of the leachate. This study starts by providing a literature review to summarize and analyze different approaches being applied to landfill leachate treatment. Subsequently, a conceptual prototype is proposed, which can be built using existing technology by means of technical possibility analysis, whilst economic benefits could be returned through preliminary comparison. With the proposed introduction of a “waste treatment park”, this alternative treatment system could provide a template for leachate and landfill gas control. This study may provide an insight for landfill operators and engineers to promote the transformation from the conceptual framework to the real achievement. Finally, the limitations of the conceptual model and analysis are discussed, laying a foundation for further work.
Detection of Dissolved Lactose Employing an Optofluidic Micro-System
Authors: Weber Emanuel , Keplinger Franz , Vellekoop Michael
Published: December 2012

In this work, a novel optofluidic sensor principle is employed for a non-invasive and label-free characterization of lactose containing liquid samples. Especially for medicine and food industry, a simple, fast and accurate determination of the amount of lactose in various products is highly desirable. The presented system exploits the impact of dissolved molecules on the refractive index for sample characterization. On the optofluidic chip, a microfluidic channel filled with the analyte is hit by slightly diverging laser light. The center incident angle of the beam on-chip is set close to the critical angle for total internal reflection. Both the reflected and the transmitted light signals are recorded at the solid-liquid interface. The ratio of those two signals is then used as representative value for the analyte. Using this principle, lactose containing samples were differentiated based on their concentrations at a step size of 10 mmol/L. The use of the signals ratio instead of a single signal approach improves the stability of the system significantly, allowing for higher resolutions to be achieved. Furthermore, the fabrication of the devices in PDMS ensures biocompatibility and provides low absorbance of light in the visible range.
Diesel Consumption of Agriculture in China
Authors: Li Nan , Mu Hailin , Li Huanan , Gui Shusen
Published: December 2012

As agricultural mechanization accelerates the development of agriculture in China, to control the growth of the resulting energy consumption of mechanized agriculture without negatively affecting economic development has become a major challenge. A systematic analysis of the factors (total power, unit diesel consumption, etc.) influencing diesel consumption using the SECA model, combined with simulations on agricultural diesel flows in China between 1996 and 2010 is performed in this work. Seven agricultural subsectors, fifteen categories of agricultural machinery and five farm operations are considered. The results show that farming and transportation are the two largest diesel consumers, accounting for 86.23% of the total diesel consumption in agriculture in 2010. Technological progress has led to a decrease in the unit diesel consumption and an increase in the unit productivity of all machinery, and there is still much potential for future progress. Additionally, the annual average working hours have decreased rapidly for most agricultural machinery, thereby influencing the development of mechanized agriculture.
A Study of the Effect of Heat-Treatment on the Morphology of Nafion Ionomer Dispersion for Use in the Passive Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC)
Authors: Yuan Ting , Zhang Haifeng , Zou Zhiqing , Khatun Sufia , Akins Daniel , Adam Yara , Suarez Sophia
Published: December 2012

Aggregation in heat-treated Nafion ionomer dispersion and 117 membrane are investigated by 1H and 19F Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectra, spin-lattice relaxation time, and self-diffusion coefficient measurements. Results demonstrate that heat-treatment affects the average Nafion particle size in aqueous dispersions. Measurements on heat-treated Nafion 117 membrane show changes in the 1H isotropic chemical shift and no significant changes in ionic conductivity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of prepared cathode catalyst layer containing the heat-treated dispersions reveals that the surface of the electrode with the catalyst ink that has been pretreated at ca. 80 °C exhibits a compact and uniform morphology. The decrease of Nafion ionomer’s size results in better contact between catalyst particles and electrolyte, higher electrochemically active surface area, as well as significant improvement in the DMFC’s performance, as verified by electrochemical analysis and single cell evaluation.
Preparation of Dispersed Particle Gel (DPG) through a Simple High Speed Shearing Method
Authors: Dai Caili , Zhao Guang , Zhao Mingwei , You Qing
Published: December 2012

Dispersed particle gel (DPG) has been first successfully prepared using cross-linked gel systems through a simple high speed shearing method with the aid of a colloid mill at room temperature. The gel microstructure and particle size were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements. The results clearly show that the prepared DPG particles have highly uniformly spherical structures with an average size of 2.5 μm. A possible mechanism for the formation of DPG has been put forward and discussed in details. The high speed shearing method is considered to be the simple and rapid method for the preparation of DPG.
Synthesis of New Macrocyclic Polyamides as Antimicrobial Agent Candidates
Authors: El-Salam Osama , Al-Omar Mohamed , Fayed Ahmed , Flefel Eman , Amr Abd
Published: December 2012

A series of macrocyclic imides and Schiff-bases have been prepared via the cyclocondensation of pyridine-2,6-dicarbonyl dichloride (1) with L-ornithine methyl ester to give the corresponding macrocyclic bisester 2. Treatment of 2 with hydrazine hydrate gave macrocyclic bisacid hydrazide 3, which was used as starting material. Condensation of bishydrazide 3 with diacid anhydrides or aromatic aldehydes in refluxing acetic acid or ethanol gave the corresponding macrocyclic bisimides 4, 5a,b and macrocyclic bis- hydrazones 6a–j, respectively. The structure assignments of the new compounds were based on chemical and spectroscopic evidence. The antimicrobial screening showed that many of these newly synthesized compounds have good antimicrobial activities, comparable to ampicillin and ketaconazole used as reference drugs.