bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of smoke-water and smoke-derived butenolide on accumulation of phenolic acids in cultured hairy roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bung
Authors: Zhou Jie , Xu Zixin , Ran Zhifang , Fang Lei , Guo Lanping
Published: October 2018

Smoke-water (SW) and biologically active compound butenolide (KAR1) isolated from smoke show stimulating effects on the plant growth of agricultural and horticultural crops, while little has been known on their effects on the secondary metabolism of medicinal plants. Hairy root culture of Salvia miltiorrhiza, an important medicinal plant, was treated with SW and butenolide. The results showed that the contents of salvianolic acid (SAB) and rosmarinic acid (RA) were enhanced with the treatments of SW and KAR1. The expressions of genes (PAL, C4H, 4CL, TAT and HPPR) involved in phenolic acids biosynthesis were upregulated by treatments of SW and KAR1. Responses of C4H and 4CL to SW and KAR1 treatment were later than PAL, TAT and HPPR. It suggests that SW and KAR1have the potential to be used as elicitor to increase the accumulation of secondary metabolites in S. miltiorrhiza hairy root.
Bromatological and sensory analyses of a snack based corn flour and cassava root fortified with moringa to combat the malnutrition
Authors: Calderon Lopez Juan Carlos , Bhaktikul Kampanad
Published: October 2018

This research details an effort to develop a nutritious snack that can alleviate, and combat problems associated with undernourishment product was developed using corn, cassava, and moringa (or teberinto). Two samples of the product were made, with 1 and 2% moringa, along with corn (60%) and cassava (39%) and were tested through a sensory analysis with 15 panelists. The better product was determined by applying the ANOVA to the results of the sensory analysis. The selected sample was the one containing 1% moringa. The product was subjected to microbiological tests for quality and bromatological tests and to ascertain its chemical composition. Results from both tests met the requirement of established standards. Three physicochemical determination (protein, moisture and ash) also provided favorable results. Thus combining these foods into a snack may contribute to mitigation of undernourishment.
Effects of soil enhancer (XXL) on yield attributes of BRRI dhan29 and hybrid dhan TAJ1 cultivars of rice in boro season
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Haque Md Moinul , Ahamed Kamal Uddin
Published: October 2018

The present study used two varieties (BRRI dhan29 and Hybrid dhan Taj1) of rice and (control) and six different concentrations of soil enhancer XXL [125% (1.88/1.5 g/l), 100% (1.5/1.5 g/l), 75% (1.125/1.5 g/l), 50% (0.75/1.5 g/l), 33% (0.50/1.5 g/l) and 25% (0.38/1.5 g/l)] with recommended doses of (N, P, K, S and Zn) fertilizers. Significant variation was observed in different yield contributing characters with soil enhancer (XXL) application. Among the different soil enhancer (XXL) concentrations, 75% XXL provided the highest yield (10.58 t/ha). With 75% XXL, BRRI dhan29 and Hybrid dhan Taj1 provided their highest grain yield (11.09 t/ha and 10.07 t/ha, respectively). However, BRRI dhan29 performed well due to yield attributes (fertile tillers/hill, panicle length and shoot dry matter/hill which were 11.94, 23.95 cm and 21.59 g, respectively) than that of Hybrid dhan Taj1 with 75% XXL applied.
Effects of ga3 and shoot pruning on flowering and yield in Assam lemon (Citrus limon Burm. f.)
Authors: Mahesha M , Singh SR
Published: October 2018

Effect of GA3 and pruning on flowering and yield in Assam lemon (Citrus limon Burm. F.) were studied. Ten treatments were imposed for two seasons (summer and winter) in which significant among the treatments were found for profuse flowering and its yield. Among the different treatments, the pooled data of two seasons showed that G1P1 (GA3 50 ppm single spray plus 15 cm shoot pruning) recorded the highest flower per branch (29.75.), fruitlets per branch (6.4) and yield (10.45 t/ha) as compared to the control plants 26.5 flowers per branch, 5.8 fruitlets per branch and 9.43 mt/ha, respectively. Therefore, combination of GA3 50 ppm single spray + 15 cm shoot pruning is most promising which can be recommended for improvement of yield in lemon cv. Assam lemon.
High cadmium uptake ability of Bacillus cereus strains isolated from rhizosphere of Tagetes minuta L. growing in cadmium-polluted soil
Authors: Akhter Kulsoom , Ghous Tahseen , Awan Muhammad Siddique , Ul-Abdin Zain , Hussain Basharat
Published: October 2018

Microbes resistant to heavy metals develop mechanisms to accumulate Cd(II) in their cells. Two bacterial strains, Bacillus cereus AVP12 and B. cereus NC7401 which grew at high Cd(II) concentration were isolated from roots of Tagetes minuta L. growing in Cd(II) contaminated and uncontaminated soil. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and percent removal capacity were determined as function of pH, contact time and initial Cd(II) concentration. Bioaccumulation capacity was determined to observe possible effect of two different rhizospheres on Cd(II) removal capacity of both strains. Both strains were resistant up to 300 mg/l Cd(II) concentration. The percent removal capacity of both strains was maximum at pH 7 and incubation time of 24 hrs. High bioaccumulation capacity was observed with increasing Cd(II) concentration. Both Langmuir and Freundlich models fitted well to data of Cd(II) bioaccumulation. Though, maximum adsorption capacity (Qo) was observed for strains isolated from both types of rhizospheres, however remarkable Qo values of 434.0 and 212.7 mg/g were observed for Bacillus cereus AVP12 and NC7401, respectively isolated from polluted rhizosphere. Bacillus cereus strains growing in polluted rhizosphere can develop high Cd(II) uptake ability in comparison to non-polluted rhizosphere.
Use of algae from an oasis in Saudi Arabia in production of biofuel and bio-fertilizer
Authors: El Semary Nermin Adel , Mahdi Howrah , Alnoaim Abrar , Alsofan Kawther Heji , Almsthi Sarah Ibrahim , Albader Wed Saleh
Published: October 2018

AlAhsa oasis in Saudi Arabia is one of the largest oases in the world. Algae, from this region have been under-explored in the past decades. A study was conducted with Chlorococcum strain to produce biofuel alongside the seaweed Hormophysa cuneiformis. Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry of fatty acid composition showed that the biodiesel obtained had limited number of unsaturated fatty acids as compared to the number of saturated fatty acids present, which indicates the stability of the produced biodiesel. Thereby the use of algal biomass for the production of biofuel is feasible. Moreover, the biomass may serve other different biotechnological applications. To further test this hypothesis, the aqueous extract of two different algae; one derived from the blue green alga (cyanobacterium) Phormidium sp. and the other from brown alga Hormophysa cuneiformis was used as liquid biofertiliser at concentrations of 50 and 10% of both algae. Sterilized Vigna seeds were soaked in the extracts for two days. Seeds were sown in sterilized soil and the germination percentage as well as shoot and root lengths were recorded for developing seedlings. The results showed that there was a significant increase in seed germination rate compared to control. Similarly, there was a significant increment in the length of root and root system compared to control with the 50% aqueous extract concentration being highest in growth parameters for brown alga followed by blue-green alga possibly due to the presence of growth stimulants in these extracts.
Use of UV-C radiation for reducing storage losses of potato tubers
Authors: Jakubowski Tomasz
Published: October 2018

Ultraviolet radiation in the C band to limit storage losses of potato was applied. Six edible potato varieties, viz., Lord, Vineta, Owacja, Ditta, Finezja and Tajfun were used as test materials. UV-C radiation was emitted from a 15 W radiator. The wavelength of the light used to irradiate potato tubers was 253,7 nm and the power density from 80 to 100 μW/cm2. The method of reduction of storage losses of potato tubers, based on their exposure to UV-C irradiation, can complement the presently used methods of potato crop protection during long-term storage.
Prevalence of lameness in cattle in selected areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Ali ML , Hasan M , Miah MAH , Hanif SM , Juyena NS , Hashim MA
Published: October 2018

Prevalence of lameness was investigated in 1000 randomly selected cattle in Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and different dairy farms in Boira Union, Mymensingh during January to December 2015. The aetiology, age [Cal≤f 1 year, 1 - 3 years, 3 - 5 years and >5 years], sex (male, female), different stages of cattle [Calves, Heifers, Pregnant cows, Lactating cows, Dry cows, and Bulls] and floor type (concrete, muddy floor, pavement, straw yard) were studied. Out of 1000 cattle examined, 111 (11.1%) showed lameness in different grades, with 82.0% slightly, 14.4% moderately and 3.6% severely lame. The aetiologies of lameness are upward fixation of patella, traumatic injury, foot and mouth disease (FMD) complications, arthritis, interdigital hyperplasia, interdigital dermatitis and interdigital necrobacillosis. Higher percentages of lameness were in hind limbs than fore limbs. Left hind limbs were more frequently affected than right hind limbs. Animals over 5 years of age were most vulnerable to lameness. Female especially high yielding cows were at higher risk (69.4%) than the male cattle (30.6%). Prevalence of lameness was higher when cattle were confided to the concrete floor than the muddy floor. Pregnant cows were the most vulnerable to lameness. It is suggested that aetiology, age, sex, different stages of cattle and floor type could be considered as risk factors causing lameness in cattle.Bangl. vet. 2017. Vol. 34, No. 1, 1-8
Bacterial contamination of ram semen used for artificial insemination in indigenous ewes
Authors: Ahmed E , Islam MS , Alam MGS , Jha PK , Ghosh S , Naher N , Bari FY
Published: October 2018

Ram semen was assessed for quality and presence of bacteria. Four ejaculates were collected from each of four rams twice a week using artificial vagina. The volume varied from 0.4 - 1.3 mL, colour from 2 - 4 (creamy to creamy-grey), mass activity from 3 - 5, sperm motility from 75 - 85%, viability from 80 - 95%, and concentration from, 2500 - 5000 × 106/mL. The mass activity of ram R6 was significantly (P<0.05) higher (5.0 ± 0.0) compared with ram R1 (4.4 ± 0.5), R2 (3.9 ± 0.0) and R5 (4.7 ± 0.5). The mean motility was 81.7 ± 4.0, viability 90.0 ± 4.0 and concentration 3519.0 ± 545.6 x 106/ml. E. coli and Staphylococcus spp. were found in all four rams’ fresh semen confirmed by culture, staining and biochemical tests. However, Bacillus spp. was found only in ram R5. When the semen samples were treated with antibiotics there was no growth of bacteria after three days of incubation. It is suggested antibiotics control the transmission of microorganisms through AI in ewes.Bangl. vet. 2017. Vol. 34, No. 1, 20-26
Pregnancy rate in indigenous ewes by direct transfer of vitrified embryos
Authors: Ghosh S , Talukder MRI , Jha PK , Alam MGS , Juyena NS , Bari FY
Published: October 2018

The effects of PMSG on superovulation, quality of embryos, and pregnancy rate were studied following transfer of vitrified embryos into indigenous ewes. Three donor and nine recipient ewes were synchronized using two intramuscular doses of Cloprostenol (PGF2α) equivalent to 125 μg Prostaglandin F2α (Ovoprost® Bayer, New Zealand) at an interval of nine days. To ensure ovulation donor and recipient ewes were treated with 600 iu and 250 iu Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG; Folligon®, Intervet, Boxmeer, The Netherlands) at the time of 2nd injection of Prostaglandin F2α. All donor ewes were mated by fertile rams. Embryos were collected from donor ewes on day six after mating by inguinal laparotomy. Grade 1 embryos were vitrified using standard procedure. After thawing the embryos were transferred into the exteriorized uterine horn of the recipient by inguinal laparotomy. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by trans-abdominal ultrasonography on Day 40 of transfer. Oestrus occurred 31.3 ± 8.1 hours after second injection of prostaglandin and 32.6 ± 8.7 hours in recipients. Oestrus lasted 24.7 ± 9.9 hours in donors and 32.8 ± 12.8 hours in recipients. The mean numbers of corpora lutea and embryos of donor ewes were 11.7 ± 4.0 and 8 ± 2.6, respectively. Total embryo recovery rate of donor ewes was 68.6%. The mean values of qualities of embryo yield of donor ewes were 6 ± 1.7 grade 1, 0.3 ± 0.6 grade 2, 1.3 ± 1.2 grade 3, and 0.3 ± 0.6 grade 4. Twenty embryos were vitrified, 16 embryos were transferred and four recipient ewes were found pregnant. The pregnancy rate of recipient ewes was 44.4%.Bangl. vet. 2017. Vol. 34, No. 1, 27-33
Exclusive Breastfeeding ─ Practices, Problems and Promises
Authors: Akter Shaheen
Published: October 2018

Abstract not availableJ Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 122-123
Comparison of Intra-Operative and Post-Operative Complications between Non-Descent Vaginal Hysterectomy and Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
Authors: Afroz Sayma , Ara Gulshan
Published: October 2018

Background: Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed by the gynaecologists and can be done through abdominal and vaginal routes. Vaginal hysterectomy technique has been introduced and performed centuries back, but is less popular due to lack of experience and misconception that the abdominal route is easier and safer. Worldwide gynaecologists continue to use abdominal route for hysterectomy that could be performed vaginally which is less invasive and has minimal complications.Objective: To compare the complications during intra-operative and post-operative period between vaginal hysterectomy and abdominal hysterectomy in non-descent uterus.Materials and Methods: This prospective randomised study was performed in Enam Medical College & Hospital, Savar, Dhaka during a period of one year. Sixty consecutive patients requiring hysterectomy for benign diseases were included in this study. Group A (n=30) underwent vaginal hysterectomy (non-descent vaginal hysterectomy) and were compared with Group B (n=30) who underwent abdominal hysterectomy. The primary outcome measures were operative time, intra-operative blood loss, post-operative complications like wound infection, febrile morbidity, post-operative systemic infection and hospital stay. Secondary outcome measures were conversion of vaginal to abdominal route and re-laparotomy. Data were collected in structured questionnaire and analysed by computer using R programming version 3.4.3.Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in two groups. There were no intra-operative complications in either group. Intra-operative blood loss was significantly more in Group B than in Group A. The overall complication rate was significantly higher with abdominal hysterectomy with a rate of 56.67% against 30% for vaginal hysterectomy. Wound infection (23.33%) was significantly higher in Group B as compared to Group A (0%). Post-operative hospital stay was significantly higher in Group B (7.03 days) than in Group A (4.57 days).Conclusion: Considering intra-operative blood loss, post-operative complications and hospital stay, vaginal route was found safer than abdominal route in this study.J Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 128-134
Accuracy of High Resolution Sonography in Diagnosis of Fibroadenosis Compared with Histopathological Diagnosis
Authors: Amin Mashah Binte , Yasmin Tarana , Rekha Khaleda Parvin , Leeba Rushaida Haque , Akhter Nasima , Sarkar Samar C
Published: October 2018

Background: Fibrocystic breast condition is a common, non-cancerous condition that affects premenopausal woman between 20 and 50 years of age. Because of non-specific nature of clinical presentation, diagnosis is not that easy. Linear array sonography has been helpful for detection of mammary dysplasia.Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of superficial sonography in the diagnosis of chronic cystic mastitis.Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in department of Radiology & Imaging of Enam Medical College and Hospital during June 2013 to October 2017. Sonography was done in 1350 women suspected of having fibrocystic disease. Among them FNAC was done only in 1020 cases. Ultrasonographic findings and histopathological reports were analyzed using SPSS 13.0.Results: According to our study the sensitivity of superficial sonography was 92.4%, specificity 88.8%, positive predictive value 93.8%, negative predictive value 86.4% and accuracy 91% in the diagnosis of fibrocystic changes.Conclusion: With the validity test result, it can be concluded that high frequency sonography provides an accurate diagnosis of fibroadenosis.J Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 139-143
Management of OPC and Carbamate Poisoning in Intensive Care Unit of Enam Medical College & Hospital, Savar, Dhaka
Authors: Khanum Easnem , Islam Md Ashraful , Salim Mohammad , Islam SM Rafiqul , PK Md Rezaul Haque
Published: October 2018

Background: Bangladesh is an agriculture-dependent country. Organophosphorus insecticides are widely used for the better outcome of cultivation. It is used for suicidal purpose due to its easy availability all over the country. Worldwide, acute pesticide poisoning is causing major health problems with high mortality in developing countries.Objective: The objective of our study was to establish that early management of acute poisoning with organophosphorus and carbamate in ICU along with ventilatory support in severe respiratory distress reduces the mortality rate.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology & ICU in Enam Medical College & Hospital, Savar, Dhaka from January 2013 to December 2015. Total 84 patients with acute poisoning cases were selected. The diagnosis was confirmed by the history of ingestion of insecticides, observing clinical signs and symptoms and presence of foul smelling of poisonous agent. Management included supportive care, intubation, artificial ventilation in selective cases, administration of antidotes as loading and maintenance dose for atropinization with atropine and pralidoxime, antibiotics, anti-ulcerant, anticonvulsant, inotropic support (in severe hypotension) along with other symptomatic treatment. After stabilization, decontamination was started with removal of contaminated clothes, thorough wash with soap and water, irrigation of eyes with water and normal saline. Gastric lavage was given within 2 to 3 hours of ingestion of poison.Results: Acute poisoning was observed more in male (60.71%) than in female (39.29%) and in age group of 21–40 years (60.71%). Suicidal attempt was present in 97.61% cases and causes of suicidal poisoning were familial disharmony (76.19%), financial loss (14.28%) and failure in examination (9.52%). Organophosphate group poison ingestion was in 77.38% cases and carbamate group poison in 21.43% and both agents in 1.19% cases. Ventilatory support was given in 48.80% cases and 78.05% patients were successfully extubated from mechanical ventilator. Mean duration of ventilatory support was 2–14 days. Out of 84 patients, 75 (89.28%) survived and 9 (10.72%) patients expired. Fifty two (61.91%) patients were discharged within 4–6 days, 16 (19.04%) within 2–3 days, and 7 (8.33%) patients were discharged within 7–14 days.Conclusion: Early ICU admission and appropriate management of patients after ingestion of poisonous agent results in reduced morbidity and mortality.J Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 144-152
Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options for Patients with Fibromyalgia
Authors: Rahman Md Shahidur
Published: October 2018

Fibromyalgia is a generalized chronic pain syndrome characterized by widespread pain and tenderness to palpation at multiple anatomically defined soft tissues and associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, cognitive dysfunction, chronic fatigue, and autonomic dysfunction. In 2010, American College of Rheumatology modified classification criteria defined in 1990. This is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints in physician’s chambers. For lack of specific pharmacological treatment options, non-pharmacological treatment modalities are found to have some immediate efficacy and a variable efficacy in the long term. We searched literatures and reviewed randomized controlled trials for possible predictors of outcome in fibromyalgia. The effects of non-pharmacological interventions are limited and positive outcomes largely disappear in the long term. However, within the various populations with fibromyalgia, treatment outcomes showed considerable individual variations. Subgroups of patients with high levels of psychological distress may benefit from non-pharmacological interventions. Some of the relevant published articles demonstrated the beneficial effects of non-pharmacological treatment options, specially exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy and alternative and complementary medicine, in the context of non-availability of specific pharmacotherapy.J Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 165-169
Isolated Metastatic Malignant Melanoma of the Right Inguinal Lymph Node with Unknown Primary Lesion
Authors: Das Debasish , Paul Deb Prosad , Iqbal Kazi Sohel
Published: October 2018

Malignant melanoma develops from the pigment containing cells known as melanocytes. Melanoma is more common in men than in women. It is found typically in the skin. It is also found in the mouth, intestine, eye and other sites. Melanoma may develop from a mole with changes including an increasing in size, irregular edges, changes in color, itchiness or skin breakdown. Prognosis is poor if it is not treated early. The primary cause of melanoma is UV light exposure. Patients with history of affected family members and poor immune function are at greater risk. Diagnosis is by biopsy from any affected skin lesion. Recurrence is common even many years after the initial diagnosis. Here we present a case of malignant melanoma of the inguinal lymph node with unknown primary lesion. Surgery was done with complete excision of inguinal lymph node. Biopsy report showed metastatic malignant melanoma.J Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 174-176
Cerebral Abscess – Sequel of Septic Embolization from Thrombo- Phlebitis at Venous Catheter Insertion Site
Authors: Mosharraf Shafayat Bin Mollah , Rahman Shamimur
Published: October 2018

Abstract not availableJ Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 177-178
College News Vol 8(3)
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana , Mohtarin Sabreena
Published: October 2018

Abstract not availableJ Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 179
Reviewers in this Issue Vol 8(3)
Authors: Editor -
Published: October 2018

Abstract not availableJ Enam Med Col 2018; 8(3): 180
Knowledge and Concerns of Parents Regarding Childhood Fever at a Public Health Clinic in Kuching, East Malaysia
Authors: Bong Wan-Tsien , Tan Chai-Eng
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND: Parental anxiety regarding fever may be unwarranted as most cases are owing to self-limiting causes.
AIM: To assess the level of knowledge and concerns regarding childhood fever among parents with young children in a public health clinic in Kuching, East Malaysia.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among parents recruited from a maternal and child health clinic, with children aged 6 months to 6 years. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire regarding their knowledge and concerns about childhood fever. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed, and associations between dependent and independent variables were determined.
RESULTS: Only 26.1% of participants were found to have good knowledge. Knowledge regarding childhood fever was significantly associated with parent’s ethnicity, education level, and household income. About 72% of parents were always worried about their child’s illness. Three major reasons for their concerns were persistently rising temperature; discomfort caused by the fever, and feared complications of fever.
CONCLUSION: Excessive parental anxiety due to poor knowledge and misconceptions about fever may lead to poor quality of life and inappropriate management of fever. Healthcare providers may help by educating parents about fever and serious signs that indicate the need to seek healthcare advice.
Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl as an Adjuvant to Lidocaine 5% for Spinal Anesthesia in Women Candidate for Elective Caesarean
Authors: Kamali Alireza , Azadfar Ronak , Pazuki Shirin , Shokrpour Maryam
Published: October 2018

AIM: This study aimed to compare the effect of Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl as an adjuvant to lidocaine 5% in spinal anaesthesia to increase post-operative analgesia among women candidates for elective caesarean.
METHODS: Eighty-four pregnant women candidates for caesarian were randomly divided into fentanyl and Dexmedetomidine groups. In the first group, 25 μg fentanyl was added to lidocaine 5% while in the second group, 0.5 μg per kilogram Dexmedetomidine was added to lidocaine 5%. After the operation, a pain score of the patients in recovery and within 4, 12 and 24 hours after the operation, the average length of analgesia and the average amount of the analgesics taken within 24 hours and after the operation were recorded.
RESULTS: The average length of postoperative anaesthesia and the average amount of the drug taken within the first 24 hours after the operation in fentanyl group was more than the Dexmedetomidine group (P = 0.01). Shivering in Dexmedetomidine group was more common than what was observed in the fentanyl group (P = 0.001). Higher rates of nausea-vomiting were observed in the fentanyl group (P = 0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: Fentanyl results in a longer period of postoperative analgesia and less consumption of drugs after the operation. Fentanyl is recommended in caesarian.
Falsification of Type at Work: Assessment of Prevalence and Investigation of Predictors
Authors: Amer Nagat M. , Monir Zeinab , Hafez Salwa Farouk , Mostafa Sally , Mahdy-Abdallah Heba , Saleh Mai Sabry
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND: Occupational-stress, job-satisfaction and poor health outcomes are closely related and strongly pertain to individuals' mental health and physiological well-being. Falsification of Type is a growing term in the field of organisational psychology that measures occupational stress when working in a job that does not match one’s, natural leader.
AIM: The present work aims at determining the prevalence of falsification of type and associated socio-demographic and work-related factors.
METHODS: The study sample consists of 150 researchers working at the National Research Centre of Egypt. Participants were asked to complete a self-report Falsification of Type Questionnaire, Andrews and Withey scale for Job Satisfaction, in addition to socio-demographic and work-related variables. Statistics included descriptive and comparative analyses. A regression model was built with falsification of the type as the dependent variable.
RESULTS: Facilities showed the highest rate of dissatisfaction in the Job Satisfaction Questionnaire. The most prominent manifestations of falsification were fatigue and irritability, and its predictors were the position, interpersonal relationships, facilities and sex according to the regression model. Falsification of type could seriously contribute to occupational stress. Job satisfaction is highly about falsification.
CONCLUSION: More research on the Falsification of Type at work is recommended with the greater attention of employers to the importance of the concept of person-job fit.
The Impact of Pursed-lips Breathing Maneuver on Cardiac, Respiratory, and Oxygenation Parameters in COPD Patients
Authors: Sakhaei Shahriar , Sadagheyani Hassan Ebrahimpour , Zinalpoor Soryya , Markani Abdolah Khorami , Motaarefi Hossein
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND: Respiratory system, together with the cardiovascular and central nervous system, is responsible for all processes related to oxygenation and hemodynamics and the defect in the functioning of each of these systems, along with ageing, can have mutual effects on their performance and physiological symptoms. The use of Pursed-lips Breathing (PLB) training is an essential part of the treatment of patients with the obstructive pulmonary disease, PLB stimulates the autonomic nervous system and causes relaxation and improvement of physiological parameters.
AIM: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of PLB on cardiac, pulmonary and oxygenation level in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
METHODS: A three-group clinical trial study with experimental and control which was purposefully conducted with the participation of patients with COPD and healthy individuals referring to Madani hospital Khoy, in 2017. The sample size was selected to be 60 subjects. The patients were randomly allocated to two groups of intervention and control with 20 patients, and 20 healthy subjects were assigned to the healthy intervention group. The demographic, anthropometric information form and checklist recording changes in levels of oxygenation, respiration, temperature, heart rate and blood pressure with cardiopulmonary follow up in three stages before, during and after PLB were used for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, repeated measure test, ANOVA, and Chi-square.
RESULTS: On evaluation within the COPD patient intervention group in Saturation of Peripheral Oxygen (SPO2) index with the mean difference of 2.05 percent, Respiratory Rate(RR)-0.65 minute and Pulse Rate(PR)-1.6 bpm was significant (p ≤ 0.05), and systolic blood pressure index in healthy subjects was increased (3.35 mmHg).
CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicated that using effective PLB as an easy, inexpensive, non- invasive and non-pharmacological method is considered as an important factor in improving the status of oxygenation and physiological indicators in patients with COPD and should be considered as an important part of rehabilitation programs for these patients.
Lipoma of the Neck
Authors: Temelkova Ivanka , Wollina Uwe , Di Nardo Veronica , Tchernev Georgi
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND: Lipomas are benign formations with the mesenchymal origin, which are found in the head and neck region in a very small percentage of cases. In these cases, they usually occur in the posterior neck and usually grow very slowly without causing complaints. However, when they cover the front of the neck, it is necessary to confirm the adipose origin of a tumour and to exclude the connection with the thyroid gland. Although in principle, lipomas are benign, there are three more unfavourable possibilities of 1) malignancy of lipomas, 2) the occurrence of de novo liposarcomas or 3) the association of lipomas with other tumours, such as retinoblastoma.
CASE REPORT: We present a 74-year-old woman with a painless subcutaneous formation in the neck. A Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNA) was performed, with the conclusion of the cytological result for lipoma. Surgical removal was planned under general anaesthesia.
CONCLUSION: Usually, lipomas do not require surgery, but when they engage muscles they become indicative of surgical treatment.
A cost comparison of rasburicase versus dialysis in the management of children with acute leukaemia and lymphoma at a South African centre
Authors: Kahts Morné F. , Davidson Alan , Van Eyssen Ann , Nourse Peter , McCulloch Mignon , Hendricks Marc
Published: October 2018

Background: Tumour lysis syndrome is a common complication of haematological malignancies and has historically been managed with hyperhydration, urine alkalinisation and allopurinol with renal dialysis reserved for patients in acute renal failure. Rasburicase has been shown to drastically reduce the need for dialysis; however, its use is limited in developing countries owing to its cost and availability.Aim: This retrospective analysis aimed to compare the cost to state per patient of rasburicase compared to dialysis in the management and prevention of tumour lysis syndrome in paediatric patients presenting with haematological malignancies admitted to Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH).Setting: Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.Methods: Patients from two consecutive 35 month periods, before and after the availability of rasburicase at RCWMCH, were grouped according to treatment modality, and the cumulative costs of hospitalisation, dialysis and drug administration were compared.Results: The groups were comparable in mean age and gender. The mean total length of hospital stay was 10.04 days shorter for the rasburicase group than the dialysis group with the average cost per patient in the rasburicase group being R40 989.64 lower than the dialysis group.Conclusion: The use of rasburicase results in a significant per patient cost saving when compared to dialysis, which often requires intensive care admission, and results in extended hospitalisation. The study supports the continued use of rasburicase as an essential adjunct in the management and prevention of tumour lysis syndrome, reaffirming its use as a cost-effective and efficient drug.
Sovereign - Bank Default Risk Linkages During the Greek Financial Crisis and the Role of the Italian Debt
Authors: Cifarelli Giulio , Paladino Giovanna
Published: October 2018

The Greek crisis has brought to light the strong nexus between the credit risks of European banks and their sovereign. We study this phenomenon in Germany, France, Italy and Spain by estimating the conditional correlations between sovereign and bank CDS bond spreads over the period 2006-2015. Trivariate time-varying regime switching correlation analyses, such as the STCC-GARCH and DSTCC-GARCH, are implemented to associate causally the state shifts to the dynamics of the so-called “transition variables”. We find evidence of significant changes in the correlation structures due to the evolution of both the Greek and Italian crises.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for English Language Teaching Vol 11 No 11
Authors: Yu Gavin
Published: October 2018

Reviewer acknowledgements for English Language Teaching, Vol. 11, No. 11, 2018
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Engineering Management Research, Vol. 7, No. 2
Authors: Taylor Cathy
Published: October 2018

Reviewer acknowledgements for Engineering Management Research, Vol. 7, No. 2, 2018
Survival, dispersal, and capture probability of male and female birds
Authors: Lovász Lilla , Roth Tobias , Karcza Zsolt , Lukács Katalin Odett , Gyurácz József , Amrhein Valentin
Published: October 2018

In birds, observed adult sex ratios often are biased towards males. This bias could arise due to differences between sexes in dispersal or in detectability / catchability, but a preferred explanation has been sex differences in survival. However, most studies investigated apparent survival, in which differences in dispersal were not accounted for. Here, we used data from 24'830 capturesof 11 bird species, collected at 40 Hungarian constant effort ringing sites, to estimate true survival, dispersal, and capture probability. On average, dispersal and capture probabilities were similar between sexes. However, the probability to survive from one year to the next was 0.46 in males but only 0.37 in females, suggesting that higher female mortality may indeed be the most important predictor of male-biased adult sex ratios.
Hypoxia‐driven paracrine osteopontin/integrin αvβ3 signaling promotes pancreatic cancer cell epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell‐like properties by modulating forkhead box protein M1
Authors: Cao Junyu , Li Jie , Sun Liankang , Qin Tao , Xiao Ying , Chen Ke , Qian Weikun , Duan Wanxing , Lei Jianjun , Ma Jiguang , Ma Qingyong , Han Liang
Published: October 2018

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), a key component of the tumor microenvironment, contribute to tumor invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Osteopontin (OPN), a phosphorylated glycoprotein, is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. However, OPN expression in PSCs and its potential roles in tumor–stroma interactions remain unclear. The present study first showed that OPN is highly expressed and secreted in activated PSCs driven by hypoxia, and this process is in a ROS‐dependent manner; in addition, OPN was shown to be involved in the PSC‐induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC)‐like properties of pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs). Mechanistically, OPN from activated PSCs interacts with the transmembrane receptor integrin αvβ3 on PCCs to upregulate forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1) expression and induce malignant phenotypes of PCCs. Moreover, the Akt and Erk pathways participate in OPN/integrin αvβ3 axis‐induced FOXM1 expression of PCCs. Our further analysis showed that OPN and FOXM1 are significantly upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and are associated with poor clinical outcome, indicating that OPN and FOXM1 might be considered as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for patients with pancreatic cancer. In conclusion, we show here for the first time that OPN promotes the EMT and CSC‐like properties of PCCs by activating the integrin αvβ3‐Akt/Erk‐FOXM1 cascade in a paracrine manner, suggesting that targeting the tumor microenvironment represents a promising therapeutic strategy in pancreatic cancer.
Accounting for the hypothetical bias: A changing adjustment factor approach
Authors: Furno Marilena , La Barbera Francesco , Verneau Fabio
Published: October 2018

The existence of the hypothetical bias is a well‐documented issue, and several techniques have been proposed to realign stated preferences to revealed preferences demand data. Among the ex post approaches to reduce hypothetical bias, the estimation of calibration factors and calibration functions has been considered by many authors. Nevertheless, a calibration method that allows the extent of the adjustment to vary with the magnitude of stated bids has never been proposed. Therefore, in the present study, we investigate the topic of ex post approaches showing that the bias changes along the quantiles of the WTP distribution. Using data of both hypothetical and nonhypothetical experimental auction for a private and deliverable good, a calibration method that allows the extent of the adjustment to vary with the magnitude of the stated WTP is proposed.
Maternal arsenic exposure and nonsyndromic orofacial clefts
Authors: Suhl Jonathan , Leonard Stephanie , Weyer Peter , Rhoads Anthony , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Renée Anthony T. , Burns Trudy L. , Conway Kristin M. , Langlois Peter H. , Romitti Paul A.
Published: October 2018

Background

Arsenic is widely distributed in the environment in both inorganic and organic forms. Evidence from animal studies suggests that maternal inorganic arsenic may lead to the development of orofacial clefts (OFC)s in offspring. This evidence, together with the limited epidemiologic data available, supports the need for a comprehensive examination of major sources of arsenic exposure and OFCs in humans.

Methods

Using interview data collected in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, public and well water arsenic sampling data, and dietary arsenic estimates, we compared expert‐rater assessed occupational arsenic exposure, individual‐level exposure to arsenic through drinking water, and dietary arsenic exposure between mothers of OFC cases (N= 435) and unaffected controls (N= 1267). Associations for each source of exposure were estimated for cleft lip ± palate (CL/P) and cleft palate (CP) using unconditional logistic regression analyses.

Results

Associations for maternal drinking water arsenic exposure and CL/P were near or below unity, whereas those for dietary arsenic exposure tended to be positive. For CP, positive associations were observed for maternal occupational arsenic and inorganic arsenic exposures, with confidence intervals that excluded the null value, whereas those for drinking water or dietary arsenic exposures tended to be near or below unity.

Conclusions

Positive associations were observed for maternal occupational arsenic exposure and CP and for maternal dietary arsenic exposure and CL/P; the remainder of associations estimated tended to be near or below unity. Given the exploratory nature of our study, the results should be interpreted cautiously, and continued research using improved exposure assessment methodologies is recommended.
Withaferin A attenuates bleomycin‐induced scleroderma by targeting FoxO3a and NF‐κβ signaling: Connecting fibrosis and inflammation
Authors: Bale Swarna , Pulivendala Gauthami , Godugu Chandraiah
Published: October 2018

Scleroderma is an inflammatory autoimmune disease which begins with inflammation due to tissue injury and advances to progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix resulting in scarring and hardening of the skin. Inflammation is a salutary response to tissue injury caused by varied factors. While inflammation is required for systematic wound healing, dysregulated chronic inflammation often leads to tissue scarring. Prominent role of inflammation in pathology and physiology makes it a double edge sword. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of Withaferin A (WFA), a steroidal lactone from Withania somnifera in a 28‐day murine model of bleomycin‐induced experimental scleroderma. Withaferin A was administered at two doses 2 and 4 mg/kg intraperitoneally for 28 days. At the time of study termination, we observed significant reduction in dorsal skin thickness. Our results indicate that WFA was able to sufficiently suppress pro‐inflammatory phase of fibrosis, TGF‐β/Smad signaling and also significantly repressed fibroblast conversion to myofibroblasts. Additionally, our study also demonstrated that WFA modulates FoxO3a‐Akt‐dependent NF‐κβ/IKK‐mediated inflammatory cascade, which is a prime signaling pathway in fibrogenesis. The findings of this study are persuasive of WFA as an antifibrotic agent with promising therapeutic effects in scleroderma. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(6):507–517, 2018
Tackling the Concept of Symbiotic Implantable Medical Devices with Nanobiotechnologies
Authors: Alcaraz Jean‐Pierre , Cinquin Philippe , Martin Donald K.
Published: October 2018

This review takes an approach to implanted medical devices that considers whether the intention of the implanted device is to have any communication of energy or materials with the body. The first part describes some specific examples of three different classes of implants, analyzed with regards to the type of signal sent to cells. Through several examples, the authors describe that a one way signaling to the body leads to encapsulation or degradation. In most cases, those phenomena do not lead to major problems. However, encapsulation or degradation are critical for new kinds of medical devices capable of duplex communication, which are defined in this review as symbiotic devices. The concept the authors propose is that implanted medical devices that need to be symbiotic with the body also need to be designed with an intended duplex communication of energy and materials with the body. This extends the definition of a biocompatible system to one that requires stable exchange of materials between the implanted device and the body. Having this novel concept in mind will guide research in a new field between medical implant and regenerative medicine to create actual symbiotic devices.
Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of oroxin B in rats using a validated LC–MS/MS assay
Authors: Niu Kai , Yan Huiyu , Guo Chunjie , Zhang Sixi , Zhu Wei , Teng Shiyong
Published: October 2018

A highly sensitive LC–MS/MS method was developed to measure oroxin B in rat plasma and tissue homogenates. The analyte and IS were isolated from biological matrices by a simple protein precipitation followed by centrifugation. Detection was conducted by electrospray negative‐ionization mass spectrometry in selected‐reaction monitoring mode. The assay was linear in the concentration range 4.52–904 ng/mL with intra‐ and inter‐day precision of <14.41%. It was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution studies of oroxin B after an intravenous dose of 1.0 mg/kg in rats. The results would be useful for further development of oroxin B.
Investigation of diazo‐derivatization of bisphenol A and its applicability for quantitation in food safety inspections using high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Liu Zhongrui , Li Yangyang , Sun Liwen , Yang Hong , Zheng Xin , Wang Libo
Published: October 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common additive in food packaging materials, and many methods have been discovered to limit BPA for the sake of food safety. This study aims to find a more sensitive quantification method for BPA. It was determined that a diazo derivative of BPA could be obtained when reacted with a stable and inexpensive reagent, p‐methylaniline, exhibiting an increased response in the ultraviolet spectrum than that of nonreacted BPA. Based on this discovery, an accurate method of BPA quantitation was established using a precolumn derivatization HPLC method. The results of this study showed the low limit of detection and the limit of quantitation for BPA were 3.6 and 10.9 pg/mL on‐column, respectively. This method is proven to have much higher sensitivity and a lower limit of detection than direct HPLC determination methods. This method is robust, easily handled, sensitive and cost‐effective for the quantitation of BPA. In addition, the broad application of this method to determine BPA content in plastic bottled drinking water, distilled water, tap water, milk, Sprite and grape juice was demonstrated in this paper.
Integrate faculty members into strategic planning with awards, recognition
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2018

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The best‐laid strategic plans are apt to go awry without strong buy‐in from your campus, particularly your faculty members. “Actual change is unlikely to occur on your campus without significant faculty input into the implementation of your plans,” said Melody Bowdon, associate dean of the College of Undergraduate Studies and executive director for the Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Central Florida.
A pilot randomized controlled trial of omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation for the treatment of anxiety in adolescents with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Manos Brittny E. , Bravender Terrill D. , Harrison Tondi M. , Lange Hannah L. H. , Cottrill Casey B. , Abdel‐Rasoul Mahmoud , Bonny Andrea E.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation for treatment of trait anxiety among adolescent females with restrictive anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method

A pilot double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized trial of adolescent females with AN (N = 24) entering Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) from January 2015 to February 2016. Participants were randomized to four daily PUFA (2,120 mg eicosapentaenoic acid/600 mg docosohexaenoic acid) or placebo capsules for 12 weeks. A 9‐item questionnaire of side effect frequency assessed medication tolerability. The Beck Anxiety Inventory‐Trait measured anxiety at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks. Linear mixed models evaluated associations between randomization group and study outcomes. Twenty‐two and 18 participants completed 6 and 12 weeks of data collection, respectively.

Results

Medication side effect scores were low and were not significantly different between randomization groups at Week 6 (p = .20) or 12 (p = .41). Mean trait anxiety score significantly (p < .01) decreased from baseline to 12 weeks in both groups, and the rate of change over the course of time did not differ between omega‐3 PUFA and placebo groups (p = .55).

Conclusion

Omega‐3 PUFA supplementation was well tolerated in adolescent females with AN. Although power to detect differences was limited, we found no evidence that omega‐3 PUFA benefited anxiety beyond nutritional restoration.