bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Stability of Acute and Transient Psychotic Disorders in Patients Attending Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Ranjan Sanjeev , Shakya R , Shyangwa P M
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Acute and Transient Psychotic Disorders (ATPDs) have been the subject of nosological debate. Some authors argue that these conditions should be considered as an independent group of disorders. Others view these psychoses as variants of schizophrenia or mood disorders, pointing to their diagnostic instability. There have been few studies of the diagnostic stability based on the International Classification of Diseases-tenth edition (ICD-10) category of ATPDs, and these studies have mixed results. This study was done to examine the diagnostic stability of ATPDs according to ICD-10.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty patients diagnosed as ATPDs at psychiatry department of B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Science (BPKIHS) were followed up at one month and after three months of their onset of illness. Their diagnosis was reassessed at every follow-up using standard instrument.  RESULTS: The diagnosis of ATPDs was unchanged in twenty four (80%) out of thirty patients. Diagnostic change was to schizophrenia in three cases and to mood disorders in three other cases. CONCLUSION: Overall, ATPDs is a diagnostically stable entity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12035Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08,Page: 7-10
Presentation, Treatment and Outcomes of Acute Coronary Syndrome in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Nepal
Authors: Barakoti Murari Prasad , Regmi S R , Dhital B M
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Nepal is facing with increasing rate of coronary artery disease, yet little is known about presentation, treatment and outcome of this disease in our population and our setting. We aimed to document the characteristics in consecutive cases in a tertiary level hospital.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: Seventy eight total cases were documented in six months period and evaluated the data on presentation, management, in-hospital mortality and non-fatal adverse cardiovascular event (MACE).  RESULTS: Mean (SD) age at presentation was 65 (13) years and did not differ among acute coronary syndrome (ACS) types (STEMI= 23%, Non ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)= 28%, UA= 49%). ACS is still a disease prevalent in >50 years of age (88%). Dual antiplatelet agents and statin were used >90% cases and coronary angiography was performed in ~50% cases. Unstable angina patients has significantly higher number of normal coronaries or non- critical stenosis. Percutaneous coronary intervention rates were significantly higher among STEMI admissions (38% vs 22 % vs 13%, P= 0.003). Unadjusted in-hospital mortality rate was 11%, significantly higher than NSTEMI (5%) and UA (5%). Non-fatal major MACE rate including reinfarction, heart failure or cardiogenic shock was also high in STEMI and NSTEMI patients than in unstable angina patients.  CONCLUSION: This study represents contemporary practice of ACS care and provides opportunity to improve care for symptom recognition, treatment options and medical therapy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12036Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 11-14
Stress and Coping Mechanism of Infertile Women Attending Infertility Clinic in Kathmandu
Authors: Sharma Chandrakala , Subedi D , Rai L , Upreti K
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Many women face problems related to infertility in various aspects of their life. Also, it is not comfortable to discuss on this issue. Because of this, the feelings and distress faced by women may not come out and the pent up emotions may lead to different stress related problems.   MATERIAL AND METHODS : A descriptive research design was adopted to assess the stress and coping mechanism of infertile women attending infertility clinic in Kathmandu Nepal. The study was conducted from October 2011 to January 2013. Purposive sampling technique was used and sample size was 100. Data was collected through semi- structured interview using; 'Perceived Stress Scale'(PSS) and 'Coping Check List' (CCL).   RESULTS: Regarding stress level of respondents, 40% were at very high level of stress and 35% with high level of stress. High level stress was found among the age group of 21-30 years. In relation to level of stress and coping strategies, 54.17% respondents with high stress used religious coping strategies, 50% of the respondents with very high stress also used religious coping, followed by 40% emotional coping and 37.5% problem focused coping and seeking social support strategies to overcome the stress.   CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the  almost more than half of the respondents were under high level of stress and mostly were those who are under  treatment for more than 1-3 yrs of duration. The study also concluded that the higher the age the respondents were more stressed due to the infertility. It was also found that most of the respondents used religious coping as well as emotional focused coping during the stressful period.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12039Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 24-28
Editorial Vol.11-12
Authors: Jnawali Damodar
Published: February 2015

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v11i0.11521The Third PoleVol. 11-12, 2012
Editorial Vol.13
Authors: Gyawali Damodar
Published: February 2015

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11536Third Pole Vol. 13, 2013
Rainastar Irrigation Project and its Impact on Paddy Cultivation in Chakratirtha Village Development Committee Lamjung District, Nepal
Authors: Dhital Netra Prasad
Published: February 2015

Present paper has been focused on the changing aspects of paddy cultivation of Chakratir the VDC, Lamjung district after the implementation of Rain star Irrigation Project (RIP). The RIP is confined in 7 wards of the VDC, where only 3 and 4 wards are not covered. The study of changing scenario of paddy cultivation after the completion of RIP has been mainly based on the primary data. The study has found that various crops such as paddy, maize and millet were grown almost equally in the study area before the availability of irrigation facility. Due to the availability of irrigation facility, the crop production has been moved towards paddy cultivation. Paddy has become the most important crop for consumption and income. Before irrigation project only 204 ha lands was occupied for paddy production whereas after the construction of the Project it was extended to 340 ha land.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11541The Third PoleVol. 13, 2013page : 12-16
Geography Education and Research in Nepal: Challenges, Status and Options
Authors: Pokhrel Kabi Prasad
Published: February 2015

This paper discusses the development trends of Nepalese Geography and presents the status of geography teaching and research activities at university level. Facts and figures, used for discussion were assembled from the review of available geographic literature. Findings of the paper clearly indicate that there is an urgent need to redefine its directive principles in its research goals, teaching styles and social relevance. The author opines that Nepalese Geographers have to disseminate and recreate the existing knowledge of geographical science and adopt micro approach for the application of our integrated knowledge to the promotion of human welfare.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v13i0.11545The Third PoleVol. 13, 2013page : 39-45
Harnessing Heights by the Use of Up and Downhill Relief Resources to Strengthen Sustainability for the Ecological and Economic Needs of Poverty Pressed Nepali: An Altitude Geographic Approach for the Development
Authors: Panday Ram Kumar
Published: February 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v3i0.1775The Third Pole Vol.3&4, 2004 p.1-18
Environmental Problems in Metro-Kathmandu. A General Assessment
Authors: Gautam Dilli Raj
Published: February 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v3i0.1778The Third Pole Vol.3&4 2004 p.47-55
Water Use in Mountain Areas: A Case of Modi Khola Watershed, Nepal
Authors: Rijal Shiba Prasad
Published: February 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v3i0.1779The Third Pole Vol.3&4 2004 p.56-74
Application of Geographic Information Systems in the Geographical Research
Authors: Poudel Krishna
Published: February 2015

Geographical research is a search to get answers of questions or queries concerning about the phenomena of space, society, humanity and natural processes. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) help to carry on the study through enabling the data capture, database management, information handling and analyzing the complex phenomena within an interactive user's interface environment with high degree of accuracy and in a short time. Verticality and variations are the properties of mountains landscape. Application of GIS on geographical research enables to analyze those specific properties of mountain landscape with attainable accuracy level. This paper is an attempt to bring the applicability of GIS in the geographical research in the mountain context based on the available secondary information of various sources. Research queries in geographical subject, introduction of GIS and its development in Nepal, research issues, application of GIS and challenges and the new strategy for the application of GIS in the mountain context are explained in detail. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v5i0.1951 The Third Pole, Vol. 5-7, PP 37-42:2007
Externality Analysis of Community Forest Management
Authors: Dahal Mahesh Raj
Published: February 2015

This paper attempts to analyze the positive and negative externality effects of community forest management with the help of household level monetary value of benefits and costs derived from the sixteen community forest user groups of households in Arun River Valley. Monetary benefits of major types of forest products and total costs of forest use and management were calculated classifying into labour cost, transaction cost and membership fees to derive monetary estimation for the purpose of externality analysis. With the help of summary statistics of calculated gross benefits and costs including net benefits and the benefit-cost ratios (B/C) the externality effects of use and management of community forest were examined. The results of externality analysis shows that the poor income households are completely failed to internalize the benefit from CF as per the total gross cost per household incurred equivalent by negative net benefits (-4.0 percent). The middle income households are being able to internalize by equalize both of gross benefit (37.0 percent and the total gross cost (37.0 percent) from CF. The rich income households are being able to externalize the total gross cost on the poor income households to gain disproportionate net benefits (4.0) from CF. The benefit-cost ratios (B/C) for the poor (0.81 < 1), medium (1=1) and rich households (1.09 > 1) also have justified that the rich households are getting higher percentage of net benefits and paying less percentage of gross cost without providing any compensation to the poor households. The middle income households appeared in a position of no more gain nor more loss or zero net benefit. Since even a benefit loser, the poor households should take part in overall total gross cost of forest use, operation and management. Thus, the net externality effect of CF in terms of benefits accrued (positive externality) minus total gross cost incurred (negative externality) i.e. net benefit is negatively related to the poor income households and positively related to richer households in the study area. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v5i0.1955 The Third Pole, Vol. 5-7, PP 62-69:2007
Rights-Based Education in Nepal: Existing Status and Challenges
Authors: Jnawali Damodar
Published: February 2015

This paper is an attempt to deal with the issues and challenges of rights-based education in Nepal with specific reference to minority and disadvantaged group children at school level. Data and information are from three year formative research activities completed under the commission of CERID, TU, Nepal. Discourses of various stakeholders were solicited in order to elicit information. Students’ interactions, class observations, focus group discussions with people in local communities and district level officials, and district as well as national level workshops were conducted in order to elicit information for the study. The findings of the study indicate that the provisions for rights-based education are still inefficient in order to achieve the EFA goals. In spite of the attempts made by community, government, NGOs and INGOs, there are many challenges to provide rights-based education to those who are socially excluded.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ttp.v8i0.11506The Third PoleVol. 8-10, PP 1-8:2010
The Queen’s Jews: Religion, Race, and Change in Twentieth-Century Canada
Authors: Duffin Jacalyn
Published: February 2015

Admission practices of medical schools have long intrigued scholars. Restrictions on Jews and other minorities are known to have existed, but few studies explore these policies. Using statistics from one university, this paper addresses that gap, providing a methodological example for future exploration of educational discrimination. Queen’s University Archives holds the registration cards of all medical students admitted over 150 years. Until the class of 1980, students were required to state “religious denomination.” Information on 4,173 medical registrants was entered into a computerized database. Interviews with alumni brought findings into the present. Results were correlated with policies described in the Minutes of the Faculty and the University Senate and Board of Trustees. The study reveals at least three definite periods of restricted entry for blacks, Jews, women, and others that persisted into the 1990s. Results are situated within the dramatic conflicts and social change across the twentieth-century.
Effect of ga and naa on physio-morphological characters, yield and yield components of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Moniruzzaman M , Khatoon R , Hossain MFB , Jamil MK , Islam MN
Published: February 2015

The experiment on brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) having seven growth regulators viz., control, 30 ppm GA3 , 40 ppm GA3, 50 ppm GA , 20 ppm NAA, 40 ppm NAA, and 60 ppm NAA and two varieties viz., BARI Begun-5 and BARI Begun -10 was conducted at the field of Plant Physiology Section of HRC during the rabi season (November 2011 to May 2013) to find out the suitable variety responsive to growth regulators and to determine the suitable dose of growth regulator for brinjal production. The GA3 (Gibberellic acid) and NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) had no significant effect on plant height and stem diameter at the end of the crop period and days to 100% flowering. NAA 40 ppm produced highest percentage of long and medium styled-flower, leaf photosynthesis and Fv/Fm (efficiency of photosystem II), number of fruits /plant and fruit yield (45.50 t/ha). The variety BARI Begun-5 was earlier to 100% flowering which took 44 days after transplanting which outyielded BARI Begun-10. NAA 40 ppm coupled with BARI Begun-5 gave the maximum Fv/Fm, long-styled flower percent, number of fruits/plant, and the highest fruit yield (49.73 t/ha). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i3.21983 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(3): 397-405, September 2014
Effect of relative humidity, initial seed moisture content and storage container on soybean (Glycine max L. Meril.) seed quality
Authors: Ali MR , Rahman MM , Ahammad KU
Published: February 2015

To find out the effect of storage relative humidity, seed moisture content and type of storage container on soybean seed quality, an experiment was conducted at the Seed Laboratory, Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh in 2008 and 2009. In 2008, soybean seed has 96% initial germination and in 2009 seed having 98% initial germination was stored at 8% and 12% initial moisture levels in two types of storage containers viz., cloth bag and polythene bag (0.06mm thickness). The final seed moisture content, germination percentage, germination index, and seedling dry matter of the seed under different treatments were measured at 60,120, and 180 days after storage (DAS). The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. In 2008, highest germination percentage (89.33%) of soybean seed was retained at 180 days after storage (DAS) for those stored at 8% initial seed moisture content (SMC) in polythene bag at 50% relative humidity. Germination index and seedling dry matter decreased with increased initial seed moisture content irrespective of storage containers used. In 2009, highest germination percentage (92.67%) of soybean seed was retained at 180 DAS for those stored in polythene bag at 8% initial SMC at 50% of the relative humidity. Those stored in cloth bag at 12% SMC showed rapid germination loss and the value went down to 0.00 in both the years. Vigour index and seedling dry matter decreased with increased initial seed moisture content irrespective of storage containers used. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i3.21989 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(3): 461-469, September 2014
Effect of Hydropriming and soil moisture regimes on yield and yield components of maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Ahammad KU , Rahman MM , Molla MAM , Azam MG
Published: February 2015

The experiment was conducted at the research field of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jessore during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 to find out the effect of hydropriming on the performance of maize seeds under variable soil moisture regimes. The treatments of the experiment were two priming methods viz., i) Hydropriming, ii) Non-priming and four moisture regimes viz., i) Wet condition, ii) Field capacity, iii) 75% of field capacity, and iv) 50% of field capacity. Results showed that yield and yield contributing characters (plant population/m2, number of cobs/m2, length of cob, diameter of cob, 100-grain weight) were influenced significantly by hydropriming. Yield and yield contributing characters were highest when hydroprimed seeds were sown at field capacity whereas it was the lowest at 75% of field capacity from non- primed seeds. Days to tasseling, days to silking, and days to maturity were reduced when hydroprimed seeds were sown at field capacity. At 50% of field capacity, no germination was occurred. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i3.21993 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(3): 505-513, September 2014
Nutrient management on leaf area index of potato-mungbean- T. aman rice cropping pattern
Authors: Jahan MAH S , Sarkar MAR , Salim M
Published: February 2015

A field experiment was conducted at Regional Wheat Research Centre of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur, Bangladesh for 2 consecutive years during 2006-07 and 2007-08. The objective was to find out the optimum nutrient management practice on leaf area index of each component crop of potato-mungbean-T. Aman rice cropping pattern. Twelve nutrient management treatments were tested in RCBD with 3 replications. Treatments combination based on cropping pattern were T1=HYG (0-198-44- 194-24-6-1.2 for potato; 0-24-40-48-24-3-1.2 for mungbean ; 0-80-16-44-12-2-0 for T.Aman rice ), T2=MYG (0-140-34-138-18-4.5-0.9 for potato; 0-20-36-40- 20-2-1 for mungbean ; 0-56-12-32-8-1.5-0 for T.Aman rice), T3=IPNS (10000- 168-38-170-18-6-1.2 for potato ; 5000-9-37-36-21-3-1.2 for mungbean ; 5000- 65-13-32-9-2-0 for T.Aman rice), T4=STB (0-171-40-164-22-5-1 for potato; 0- 20-36-40-22-2-1 for mungbean ; 0-68-15-37-11-2-0 for T.Aman rice), T5=FP (0- 97-16-91-0-0-0 for potato ; 0-6-5-4-0-0-0 for mungbean ; 0-39-37-12-0-0-0 for T.Aman rice), T6=CON (0-0-0-0-0-0-0 for potato, mungbean and T.Aman rice) kg/ha CDNPKSZnB, T7=HYG+CRI, T8=MYG+CRI, T9=IPNS+CRI, T10=STB+CRI, T11=FP+CRI, T12=CON+CRI for potato-mungbean T.Aman rice cropping pattern, respectively. Average of two years data showed that HYG+CRI treatment gave maximum LAI followed by HYG, IPNS+CRI, IPNS, STB+CRI, and STB treatments at 60 days after planting (DAP) for potato, at 50 days after sowing (DAS) for mungbean, at 60 days after transplanting (DAT) for T.Aman rice, respectively. For potato, there was a significant (p?0.01) and positive linear relation between the LAI at 60 DAP and the tuber yield. While there was a significant (p?0.01) and positive linear relationship between the LAI at 50 DAS and seed yield of mungbean. In case of T.Aman rice, there was a significant (p?0.05) as well as positive linear relationship between the LAI at 60 DAT and the grain yield of rice. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i3.21994 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(3): 515-527, September 2014
Extent and Background Factors of Physical and Mental Disability in Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Amena , Gulshan Jahida
Published: February 2015

The extent of disability in Bangladesh in recent time has been examined and the potential background factors causing different types of disability have been identified. The data on disability in Bangladesh was taken from Sample Vital Registration System (SVRS), 2010 collected by Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics. Chi-square test of association showed that type of disability varies significantly with respect to area, sex, division and religion. Age has no significant association with disability. A trichotomous logistic regression model presented the relationship between different background factors and type of disability. The model shows that the disability rate is higher among urban people as compared to rural people. The disability rate in Barisal, Dhaka, Khulna and Rajshahi are significantly higher than Sylhet. The male are more likely to be mentally disabled than female. Both physical and mental disability is higher among non muslims as compared to Muslims. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i1.21962 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(1): 55-58, 2014 (January)
Modified QLRS-APM: A Proposal to Avoid Initiating Route Error Messages to Source in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Shahariar Rezvi , Anwar Shahed
Published: February 2015

Existing local route repair schemes such as localized route repair (LRR), ad hoc on-demand distance vector-backup routing (AODV-BR), and witness-aided routing (WAR) can be incorporated with reactive routing protocols to repair route breakages on ongoing routes. All of these schemes have some problems in local route repairing such as long delay, excessive energy consumption etc. To mitigate these problems in existing local route repair schemes, quick local repair scheme using adaptive promiscuous mode (QLRS-APM) is proposed. QLRS-APM is a novel approach in local route repairing but sometimes generates unnecessarily route error to the source. This paper provides a solution by giving an extension on QLRS-APM to avoid initiating route error messages to the source and also at the same time reducing excessive energy consumption from the network. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i1.21963 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(1): 59-64, 2014 (January)
A General Method of Constructing Layout with Single Factorial Effect Confounded in pn Factorial Experiments
Authors: Khan Md Kamrul Hasan , Jalil MA
Published: February 2015

A general method of constructing layout with single factorial effect confounded in pn factorial experiments is proposed. It becomes easier to construct the design of confounding a single factor in a pn factorial experiment, especially when the number of factors as well as the number of levels becomes larger. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i2.21974 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(2): 109-113, 2014 (July)
Modeling and Simulation of a PV Module Based Power System Using MATLAB/Simulink
Authors: Mahanta Protap Kumar , Debnath Khokan , Rahman Md Habibur
Published: February 2015

Due to the variation of solar irradiance, temperature and shading conditions, the power generated by a photovoltaic (PV) module and hence the power delivered to the load changes drastically, which imposes the need for analysis of a complete PV system to get the maximum power under these natural variable conditions. In this paper, a complete off-grid PV module based power generation system has been designed and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink and performance has been scrutinized using the value of standard solar irradiance about 1 KW/m-2 for Bangladesh. The simulation model includes solar PV module, the converter power stage with MPPT control and charge controlling functions and here performance of each block has been examined conspicuously. Eventually, it has been found that the model is quite competent to simulate both the I-V and P-V characteristics of a PV module and based on the result it has been predicted that the performance of several modules or even PV array connected in series and/or in parallel with the delivery of maximum power can be tested under different solar irradiance and temperature conditions. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dujs.v62i2.21977 Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 62(2): 127-132, 2014 (July)
Posterior Knee Pain: An Unusual Cause
Authors: Samdany Alamgir , Ahmed Guljar , Ahsan Abdul Gani
Published: February 2015

The pain around the posterior knee called popliteal fossa has been known to be caused by a variety of disease entities. Whatever the causes, the challenge remains in diagnosis. Proper history and clinical examination followed by uses of appropriate diagnostic tools are secrets to success. Venous malformation is a very rare cause of pain in popliteal area and its diagnosis is frequently delayed, missed or given incorrectly. Here, we report a case of a 24-year-old patient who presented with posterior knee pain for 2 years and was diagnosed as a case of intramuscular arterio-venous malformation by lower limb angiography. This patient was treated successfully by surgical resection. His follow-up was satisfactory with no evidence of recurrence. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v5i1.21499 J Enam Med Col 2015; 5(1): 58-60
Fokker-Planck Equation and Thermodynamic System Analysis
Authors: Lucia Umberto , Gervino Gianpiero
Published: February 2015

The non-linear Fokker-Planck equation or Kolmogorov forward equation is currently successfully applied for deep analysis of irreversibility and it gives an excellent approximation near the free energy minimum, just as Boltzmann’s definition of entropy follows from finding the maximum entropy state. A connection to Fokker-Planck dynamics and the free energy functional is presented and discussed—this approach has been particularly successful to deal with metastability. We focus our attention on investigating and discussing the fundamental role of dissipation analysis in metastable systems. The major novelty of our approach is that the obtained results enable us to reveal an appealing, and previously unexplored relationship between Fokker-Planck equation and the associated free energy functional. Namely, we point out that the dynamics may be regarded as a gradient flux, or a steepest descent, for the free energy.
Coronary CT Angiography in Managing Atherosclerosis
Authors: Eckert Joachim , Schmidt Marco , Magedanz Annett , Voigtländer Thomas , Schmermund Axel
Published: February 2015

Invasive coronary angiography (ICA) was the only method to image coronary arteries for a long time and is still the gold-standard. Technology of noninvasive imaging by coronary computed-tomography angiography (CCTA) has experienced remarkable progress during the last two decades. It is possible to visualize atherosclerotic lesions in the vessel wall in contrast to “lumenography” performed by ICA. Coronary artery disease can be ruled out by CCTA with excellent accuracy. The degree of stenoses is, however, often overestimated which impairs specificity. Atherosclerotic lesions can be characterized as calcified, non-calcified and partially calcified. Calcified plaques are usually quantified using the Agatston-Score. Higher scores are correlated with worse cardiovascular outcome and increased risk of cardiac events. For non-calcified or partially calcified plaques different angiographic findings like positive remodelling, a large necrotic core or spotty calcification more frequently lead to myocardial infarctions. CCTA is an important tool with increasing clinical value for ruling out coronary artery disease or relevant stenoses as well as for advanced risk stratification.
Thermochemical Pretreatments of Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Waste from a Mechanical-Biological Treatment Plant
Authors: Alvarez-Gallego Carlos , Fdez-Güelfo Luis , Romero Aguilar María de los Angeles , Romero García Luis
Published: February 2015

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) usually contains high lignocellulosic and fatty fractions. These fractions are well-known to be a hard biodegradable substrate for biological treatments and its presence involves limitations on the performance of anaerobic processes. To avoid this, thermochemical pretreatments have been applied on the OFMSW coming from a full-scale mechanical-biological treatment (MBT) plant, in order to pre-hydrolyze the waste and improve the organic matter solubilisation. To study the solubilisation yield, the increments of soluble organic matter have been measured in terms of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD), total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and acidogenic substrate as carbon (ASC). The process variables analyzed were temperature, pressure and NaOH dosage. The levels of work for each variable were three: 160–180–200 °C, 3.5–5.0–6.5 bar and 2–3–4 g NaOH/L. In addition, the pretreatment time was also modified among 15 and 120 min. The best conditions for organic matter solubilisation were 160 °C, 3 g NaOH/L, 6.5 bar and 30 min, with yields in terms of DOC, sCOD, TVFA and ASC of 176%, 123%, 119% and 178% respectively. Thus, predictably the application of this pretreatment in these optimum conditions could improve the H2 production during the subsequent Dark Fermentation process.
Performance of SU-8 Membrane Suitable for Deep X-Ray Grayscale Lithography
Authors: Mekaru Harutaka
Published: February 2015

In combination with tapered-trench-etching of Si and SU-8 photoresist, a grayscale mask for deep X-ray lithography was fabricated and passed a 10-times-exposure test. The performance of the X-ray grayscale mask was evaluated using the TERAS synchrotron radiation facility at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). Although the SU-8 before photo-curing has been evaluated as a negative-tone photoresist for ultraviolet (UV) and X-ray lithographies, the characteristic of the SU-8 after photo-curing has not been investigated. A polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) sheet was irradiated by a synchrotron radiation through an X-ray mask, and relationships between the dose energy and exposure depth, and between the dose energy and dimensional transition, were investigated. Using such a technique, the shape of a 26-μm-high Si absorber was transformed into the shape of a PMMA microneedle with a height of 76 μm, and done with a high contrast. Although during the fabrication process of the X-ray mask a 100-μm-pattern-pitch (by design) was enlarged to 120 μm. However, with an increase in an integrated dose energy this number decreased to 99 μm. These results show that the X-ray grayscale mask has many practical applications. In this paper, the author reports on the evaluation results of SU-8 when used as a membrane material for an X-ray mask.
Entamoeba histolytica: Adhesins and Lectins in the Trophozoite Surface
Authors: Aguirre García Magdalena , Gutiérrez-Kobeh Laila , López Vancell Rosario
Published: February 2015

Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amebiasis in humans and is responsible for 100,000 deaths annually, making it the third leading cause of death due to a protozoan parasite. Pathogenesis appears to result from the potent cytotoxic activity of the parasite, which kills host cells within minutes. Although the mechanism is unknown, it is well established to be contact-dependent. The life cycle of the parasite alternates with two forms: the resistant cyst and the invasive trophozoite. The adhesive interactions between the parasite and surface glycoconjugates of host cells, as well as those lining the epithelia, are determinants for invasion of human tissues, for its cytotoxic activity, and finally for the outcome of the disease. In this review we present an overview of the information available on the amebic lectins and adhesins that are responsible of those adhesive interactions and we also refer to their effect on the host immune response. Finally, we present some concluding remarks and perspectives in the field.
Solvent-Free Copper-Catalyzed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition under Mechanochemical Activation
Authors: Rinaldi Laura , Martina Katia , Baricco Francesca , Rotolo Laura , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: February 2015

The ball-mill-based mechanochemical activation of metallic copper powder facilitates solvent-free alkyne-azide click reactions (CuAAC). All parameters that affect reaction rate (i.e., milling time, revolutions/min, size and milling ball number) have been optimized. This new, efficient, facile and eco-friendly procedure has been tested on a number of different substrates and in all cases afforded the corresponding 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole derivatives in high yields and purities. The final compounds were isolated in almost quantitative overall yields after simple filtration, making this procedure facile and rapid. The optimized CuAAC protocol was efficiently applied even with bulky functionalized β-cyclodextrins (β-CD) and scaled-up to 10 g of isolated product.
Ten-Year Trends in Fiber and Whole Grain Intakes and Food Sources for the United States Population: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2010
Authors: McGill Carla , III Victor , Devareddy Latha
Published: February 2015

Current U.S. dietary guidance includes recommendations to increase intakes of both dietary fiber and whole grain (WG). This study examines fiber and WG intakes, food sources and trends from 2001 to 2010 based on National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data for children/adolescents (n = 14,973) and adults (n = 24,809). Mean fiber intake for children/adolescents was 13.2 (±0.1) g/day. Mean fiber intake for adults 19–50 years (y) was 16.1 (±0.2) g/day and for adults 51+ was 16.1 (±0.2) g/day. There were significant increases in fiber intake from 2001–2010 for children/adolescents and for adults 51+ y. Mean WG intake for children/adolescents was 0.52 (±0.01) oz eq/day. Mean WG intake for adults 19–50 y was 0.61 (±0.02) oz eq/day and for adults 51+ 0.86 (±0.02) oz eq/day. There were no significant changes in WG intake for any age group from 2001–2010. The main food groups contributing to dietary fiber intake for children/adolescents were vegetables (16.6%), grain mixtures (16.3%), other foods (15.8%) and fruits (11.3%). For adults 19+ y, the main sources of dietary fiber were vegetables (22.6%), other foods (14.3%), grain mixtures (12.0%) and fruits (11.1%). Major WG sources for children/adolescents included ready-to-eat cereals (RTEC) (31%), yeast breads/rolls (21%) and crackers and salty grain snacks (21%). The main sources of WG for adults 19+ were yeast breads/rolls (27%), RTEC (23%) and pastas/cooked cereals/rice (21%). Recommending cereals, breads and grain mixtures with higher contents of both dietary fiber and WG, along with consumer education, could increase intakes among the United States (U.S.) population.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy Approaches for the Development of a Real-Time Organophosphate Detection System Using an Enzymatic Sensor
Authors: Carullo Paola , Cetrangolo Giovanni , Mandrich Luigi , Manco Giuseppe , Febbraio Ferdinando
Published: February 2015

Organophosphates are organic substances that contain a phosphoryl or a thiophosphoryl bond. They are mainly used around the world as pesticides, but can also be used as chemical warfare agents. Their detection is normally entrusted to techniques like GC- and LC-MS that, although sensitive, do not allow their identification on site and in real time. We have approached their identification by exploiting the high-affinity binding of these compounds with the esterase 2 from Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius. Using an in silico analysis to evaluate the binding affinities of the enzyme with organophosphate inhibitors, like paraoxon, and other organophosphate compounds, like parathion, chlorpyriphos, and other organophosphate thio-derivatives, we have designed fluorescence spectroscopy experiments to study the quenching of the tryptophan residues after esterase 2 binding with the organophosphate pesticides. The changes in the fluorescence signals permitted an immediate and quantitative identification of these compounds from nano- to picomolar concentrations. A fluorescence based polarity-sensitive probe (ANS) was also employed as a means to understand the extent of the interactions involved, as well as to explore other ways to detect organophosphate pesticides. Finally, we designed a framework for the development of a biosensor that exploits fluorescence technology in combination with a sensitive and very stable bio-receptor.
Strengthening of Back Muscles Using a Module of Flexible Strain Sensors
Authors: Chuang Wan-Chun , Lin Hwai-Ting , Chen Wei-Long
Published: February 2015

This research aims at developing a flexible strain module applied to the strengthening of back muscles. Silver films were sputtered onto flexible substrates to produce a flexible sensor. Assuming that back muscle elongation is positively correlated with the variations in skin surface length, real-time resistance changes exhibited by the sensor during simulated training sessions were measured. The results were used to identify the relationship between resistance change of sensors and skin surface stretch. In addition, muscle length changes from ultrasound images were used to determine the feasibility of a proof of concept sensor. Furthermore, this module is capable of detecting large muscle contractions, some of which may be undesirable for the prescribed training strategy. Therefore, the developed module can facilitate real-time assessments of the movement accuracy of users during training, and the results are instantly displayed on a screen. People using the developed training system can immediately adjust their posture to the appropriate position. Thus, the training mechanism can be constructed to help user improve the efficiency of back muscle strengthening.
A Late Cretaceous Piper (Piperaceae) from Colombia and diversification patterns for the genus
Authors: Martínez Camila , Carvalho Mónica R. , Madriñán Santiago , Jaramillo Carlos A.
Published: February 2015

• Premise of the study: Documented fossil floras in the neotropics are sparse, yet their records provide evidence on the spatial and temporal occurrence of taxa, allowing for testing of biogeographical and diversification scenarios on individual lineages. A new fossil Piper from the Late Cretaceous of Colombia is described here, and its importance for assessing diversification patterns in the genus is addressed.

• Methods: Leaf architecture of 32 fossil leaf compressions from the Guaduas Formation was compared with that of 294 extant angiosperm species. The phylogenetic position of the fossil named Piper margaritae sp. nov. was established based on leaf traits and a molecular scaffold of Piper. The age of the fossil was independently used as a calibration point for divergence time estimations.

• Key results: Natural affinities of P. margaritae to the Schilleria clade of Piper indicate that the genus occurred in tropical America by the Late Cretaceous. Estimates of age divergence and lineage accumulation reveal that most of the extant diversity of the genus accrued during the last ∼30 Myr.

• Conclusions: The recent radiation of Piper is coeval with both the Andean uplift and the emergence of Central America, which have been proposed as important drivers of diversity. This pattern could exemplify a recurrent theme among many neotropical plant lineages.
Predictors of High Serum Casein Antibody Levels among Malnourished Infants and Young Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: El-Alameey Inas R. , Ahmed Hanaa , Monir Zeinab , Rabah Thanaa , Abdel Gawad Ayman M.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND: Factors predictive of growth retardation and malnutrition in patients with congenital heart disease remain unclear.OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to measure antibody response to bovine casein through assessing serum casein antibody levels in malnourished patients three year or younger with CHD, and to determine its relationship to gastrointestinal symptoms, anthropometric measures, and laboratory data.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This cross sectional case control study was conducted in sixty patients with CHD aged 4 to 72 months. They were subdivided into thirty patients with cyanotic and thirty patients with acyanotic CHD compared with thirty apparently healthy children.RESULTS: On comparison with controls, patients showed highly significant lower anthropometric measures, calcium, iron, hemoglobin levels, and higher serum levels of casein antibody, total iron binding capacity, and alkaline phoshatase activity (P<0.000). Serum levels of casein antibody showed significantly positive correlations with serum total iron binding capacity and alkaline phosphatase activities and negatively correlated with the age at onset of symptoms, anthropometric measures, serum calcium, and iron levels.CONCLUSION: Serum casein antibody levels play a significant role in the pathogenesis of malnutrition. Encouragement of breast feeding and avoidance of early cow's milk consumption could prevent the development of antibody response to bovine casein.
Clinical Relevance of Transforming Growth Factor-Î²1, Interleukin-6 and Haptoglobin for Prediction of Obesity Complications in Prepubertal Egyptian Children
Authors: El-Alameey Inas R. , Fadl Nevein N. , Abdel Hameed Enas R. , Sherif Lobna S. , Ahmed Hanaa H.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND: The rate of obesity is increasing throughout the world. Obesity in adultsâ€™ research is characterized by chronic inflammation, associated with type 2 Diabetes and cardiovascular risk. The degree to which these changes occur in childhood obesity is not fully defined.AIM: This study was designed to explore the relation between circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and obesity.PATIENTS AND METHODS: This cross sectional case control study was carried out in 50 randomly selected pre-pubertal overweight and obese children compared with fifty apparently healthy children of matched age and sex. Serum levels of transforming growth factor-Î²1, interleukin-6, and haptoglobin were quantified by ELISA technique.RESULTS: ANOVA test followed by Post Hoc test showed highly significant increase in the serum levels of the transforming growth factor-Î²1, interleukin-6 and haptoglobin among obese children compared to overweight and healthy children respectively. The body weight, BMI and BMI z-score were significantly positively correlated with serum levels of the three pro-inflammatory cytokines. Serum levels of interleukin-6, and haptoglobin were found to be strong predictors of complications in severe obesity by linear regression analysis.CONCLUSIONS: Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. High levels of interleukin-6 and haptoglobin are considered to be early biomarkers of inflammation associated with severe obesity with subsequent cardiovascular and type 2 diabetes risk.
KIR Gene Frequencies in Women with Infertility Problems
Authors: Djulejic Eli , Petlichkovski Aleksandar , Trajkov Dejan , Dimitrov Gligor , Alabakovska Sonja
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Natural killer (NK) cells are the predominant lymphocyte population in the decidua. Being the most abundant leucocytes, the activity of NK cells is important in different immuno-pathological conditions, such as recurrent spontaneous abortions, infertility and problems in implantation. The NK cells recognize HLA class I molecules on trophoblasts trough killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) found on their surface. The KIRs are classified as either activating or inhibitory, regarding the effect they produce on NK cells upon interaction with corresponding ligand. Since KIR genes exhibit extensive polymorphism and individuals differ in both the number and kind (activating vs. inhibitory) of KIR genes, it is hypothesized that the KIR gene content might influence the pregnancy outcome. Aim: The aim of this pilot study is to analyze the frequency of different KIR genes in women with infertility problems, and compare them to healthy women. Material and Methods: Total of 122 healthy women (Control) and 25 women with reproductive problems (MISSC) participated in this study. After signing of written consent DNA was isolated from peripheral blood using phenol/chloroform method. The genotyping of 16 KIR genes was performed using commercially available kit from Dynal Biotech, (Pel-Freez Clinical Systems, Brown Deer, WI, USA), based on SSP method. Results: We found that inhibitory KIR are present in similar observed frequency in both control and patients with MISSC, except KIR2DL5 which was found in lower frequency in patients with MISSC. There are no significant differences of all noninhibitory KIR between control and patients with MISSC. The number of inhibitory KIR genes in patients with MISSC was lover, except for seven inhibitory KIR genes which was almost doubled. The number of noninhibiotry (stimulatory) KIR genes was lower in patients with MISSC, except for those with three KIR genes which were almost four times more frequent. We found significantly bigger percentage of 0,34 – 0,60 activating/inhibitory KIR gene number ratio in the patients with MISSC. Conclusion: In conclusion, there are differences in the KIR gene distribution, gene number, and activating/inhibitory KIR gene number ratio between control and Macedonian patients with MISSC. Further analysis of frequencies of corresponding KIR genotypes or in the ratio of activating/inhibiting genes content in two groups are needed.
Cross-sectional and prospective study of the effects of GH therapy on metabolic panel in children with GH deficiency
Authors: Ramistella V. , Wasniewska M. , Arasi S. , Catena M. , Velletri M.R. , Corica D. , Santucci S. , De Luca F.
Published: February 2015

Background: Numerous studies have shown that GH, in addition to promoting linear growth, exerts a key role in many metabolic processes. However, there are only few studies aiming at evaluating the metabolic panel of children with GH deficiency (GHD). The aims of the study were: to verify the presence of metabolic alterations in GHD children in comparison with age-matched controls and to check the possible effects of two year GH therapy on the metabolic parameters in GHD. Study design: cross-sectional and prospective; one center experience Population and Methods: We enrolled 32 pediatric GHD patients (group A) and 33 sex- and age-matched healthy controls (group B). Baseline serum assays (lipid, insulin, glucose) were performed in both groups. GHD children underwent replacement therapy with GH. The same assays were repeated after 12 and 24 months of GH treatment. Results: No differences, in basal assays were found between the two groups. In group A, after initiation of GH, there was a significant increase of basal insulin and HOMA- insulin resistance (IR) index (p <0.001). In children with severe GHD (peak GH <3 ng / ml), after beginning of GH therapy a significant improvement in the lipid profile was found (p < 0.05). Conclusions: a) At the time of diagnosis GHD children had a metabolic picture that was not different from non- GHD group; b) in children with severe GHD, the metabolic profile showed a trend towards at improvement after the initiation of replacement therapy with GH, with beneficial effects in terms of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular risk indices; c) GHD patients with unfavorable metabolic profile (high BMI and hypercholestorolemia) need a monitoring of glucose metabolism by periodical evaluations of insulin and HOMA – IR.