bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro Mineral Profile Of Cattle In Four Selected Areas Of Mymensingh District
Authors: Shahjalal M , Khaleduzzaman ABM , Khandaker ZH
Published: February 2012

The experiment was undertaken with a view to investigate the micro mineral profile of feed and cattle at four agro-ecological zones (Haluaghat, Nandail, Trishal and Karimgonj upazila) in Mymensingh district. The differences (P>0.05) of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) in rice straw, road side grass and fallow land grasses for different land type were not found. The average mineral concentration (ppm) of straw was 6.12, 24.93, 291.3, and 224.9 for Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn respectively. The values for Fe and Mn contents were higher and Cu and Zn contents were lower than the critical value. Both the road side and fallow land grasses contained adequate amount of Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn. The Cu and Zn content of blood serum did not vary significantly (P>0.05) among the cattle of four different land types. Based on 0.65 ppm serum Cu as critical level indicated a higher percentage of samples were below the critical level. Besides, increased incidence of Zn deficiency in medium high land (42%) and very low land (35%) was observed. All samples analyzed 66% were deficient in Cu content and 23% cattle were deficient in Zn. Land type differences (P<0.05) were found for blood serum Fe and Mn. The average Fe concentration in very low land gave significantly (P<0.05) higher value than that of high, medium high and low land. Serum Fe and Mn concentrations of all samples were above the critical level of 1.0 ppm and 20 μg/ml respectively and the animals were not deficient in Fe and Mn. The liver Cu concentration was similar (P>0.05) in four different regions. The overall incidence of liver samples deficient in Cu was 53% for all land types. No significant (P>0.05) difference in liver Zn concentration was recorded among the samples collected from different land types and none of cattle liver samples was deficient in Zn as well as Fe and Mn concentration. From the results of the present study, it is evident that low concentration of Cu and Zn in rice straw reflected in the blood samples of the animals suggesting the need of extra supplementation of these two elements to the cattle feed of Mymensingh district. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9867 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 44-52
Determination Of Quality Of Milk From Different Genotype Of Dairy Cows
Authors: Islam MR , Hassan MN , Siddiki MSR , Khan MAS , Islam MA
Published: February 2012

The present study was conducted to investigate the milk quality from different genotype. A total 48 dairy cows belong to different genotypes such as Holstein cross, Jersey cross, Sahiwal cross and Red Chittagong were selected. Milk compositional viz. specific gravity, Acidity test, Fat test, Protein test, Solids-not-fat (SNF) test and total solids (TS) test were carried out. It was observed that the higher specific gravity of milk was obtained from Jersey cross and Red Chittagong genotype, which was significantly higher (P<0.01) than the other genotype of dairy cows. The highest acidity (%) was observed (0.165±0.014) in Red Chittagong and the lowest acidity (0.118±0.025) in Sahiwal cross. The highest fat (%) was observed from Red Chittagong cows milk which was statistically higher from Jersey cross and Sahiwal cross and the lowest fat (%) was found in the milk of Holstein cross cows. The highest SNF value was obtained from Jersey cross and the lowest from Sahiwal cross. On the other hand, Holstein cross and Red Chittagong was nearly similar. Red Chittagong milk sample showed the highest TS value and the lowest value was observed from Holstein cross. The highest protein value was found from Red Chittagong and the lowest from Holstein cross but the protein content of other two genotypes were nearly similar. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9868 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 53-56
Comparative Study Of The Quality Of Rasomalai Manufactured From Cow And Buffalo Milk
Authors: Sayedatunnesha M , Wadud A , Islam MN , Islam MA , Hossain MA
Published: February 2012

The experiment was conducted to compare the quality of rasomalai manufactured from cow milk and buffalo milk, two types of rasomalai were prepared named as- A (cow milk) and B (buffalo milk). The qualities of prepared rasomalai were evaluated physically, chemically and microbiologically. It was found that flavor, body and texture, color and appearance and total score of A and B type samples differed significantly (P<0.01) and taste score non-significantly (P>0.05). The total solids, protein, fat, ash and carbohydrate content of A and B were 461.10±6.45 and 540.17±3.77; 61.67±1.20 and 84.00±1.15; 75.33±3.18 and 125.67±3.48; 9.13±0.09 and 12.50±0.12 and 314.97±4.53 and 318.00±1.53 g/kg, respectively. All of them varied significantly (P<0.01) except carbohydrate (P>0.05). The acidity of α and β were 0.21±0.00 and 0.19±0.003 per cent, respectively and showed significant difference (P<0.01). Total viable count of A and B type samples were non-significantly (P>0.05) different and the values were 3.84±0.05 and 3.77±0.07 log cfu/g. The Coliform was absent both in A and B type sample. Buffalo milk rasomalai earns extra profit of Tk. 35/kg than the cow milk rasomalai. Physical examination revealed that type A was better than type B but the chemical and microbiological findings and also the pricing of rasomalai showed that buffalo milk rasomalai was superior to cow milk rasomalai. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9869 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 57-62
Impact Of Duck Rearing Training On Technology Dissemination And Income Of Women Under Microfinance And Technical Support (Mfts) Programme Of Selected Area Of Bangladesh
Authors: Alam R , Akteruzzaman M , Hossain MM , Sharmin E
Published: February 2012

A total of 80 duck farms were randomly chosen from three selected districts for survey during the period of January to March 2006. Evidence shows that most of the respondents (93%) received training from Micro-Finance and Technical Support (MFTS) partner organization in Kishoregonj, Brahmanbaria and Habigonj district. It is evident that the respondents adopted duck rearing farming technology about 60-80% which varie from area to area. The dissemination of duck rearing took place in the MFTS project areas due to interventions of MFTSP through training followed by production credit. The duck farming was found profitable and on an average Tk. 3318 earned which was about 14% of the net change of income due to duck rearing technology in the MFTS project areas. This improved the socio-economic and livelihood status. Finally a set of recommendations were made for making MFTS project activities more effective. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9870 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 63-69
Dose Optimization With Pituitary Gland Hormone For Induced Breeding Of Bata Fish (Labeo Bata)
Authors: Miah MI , Mamun AA , Khan MMR , Rahman MM
Published: February 2012

An experiment on induced breeding of bata fish (Labeo bata) was carried out to determine the optimum dose of pituitary gland hormone. The present study consisted of four treatments namely TI, T2, T3, and T4 with three replications of each. Twenty-four pairs of male and twelve pairs of female were selected from the brood rearing ponds and the average body wt of the female and male were 390±10 and 258±9 g respectively. To observe the effective dose for induced breeding, the females were first injected at the rate of 0.5 (T1), 1.0 (T2), 1.5 (T3) and 2.0 (T4) mg PG/kg body wt. while the second doses were performed at the rate of 4.0 (T1), 4.5 (T2), 5.0 (T3), and 5.5 (T4) mg PG/kg body wt. after 6 h from the first dose. On the other hand the males were administered a single dose of 2 mg PG/kg body wt. at the time of second dose of the female. The ovulation rate, fertilization rate, hatching rate and survival rate were determined. Among the four treatments T2 (1.0 mg PG/ kg body wt.) showed the best result in terms of ovulation rate (89%), fertilization rate (84%), hatching rate (85%) and survival rate (84%). The dose of 1.0 mg PG/kg body wt. can be used in induced breeding of bata fish (L. bata) for the development of hatchery propagation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9871 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 70-77
Characterization Of Neurons In The Visceral Ganglia Of The Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna Canaliculus) Using Antibodies Raised Against Neuropeptides And Neurotransmitters
Authors: Mahmud S , Mladenov PV , Sheard P , Chakraborty SC
Published: February 2012

Central neurons in the visceral ganglia of both male and female Green lipped mussel, Perna canaliculus were characterized by immunohistochemical techniques. We used mollusc antibodies raised against neuropeptides and neurotansmitters known to control reproduction and spawning. Anti-ELH and anti-APGWamide showed very strong immunoreactivity in small type of neurons. Anti-5-HT and anti-DA immunoreactivity was mostly in large type of neurons. The labelled neurons are consistent with descriptions of neurosecretory cells implicated in the control of reproduction and spawning on the basis of earlier histological staining techniques used in this species. The use of selective immunological markers for peptides and amines appears to be a promising tool for further Characterization of neurosecretory cells. To isolate and characterise neuropeptides and other biologically active materials involved in the control of reproduction in Perna canaliculus. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9873 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 78-85
Growth Performance And Nutritional Value Of Scenedesmus Obliquus Cultured In Different Concentrations Of Sweetmeat Factory Waste Media
Authors: Toyub MA , Miah MI , Habib MAB , Rahman MM
Published: February 2012

The growth performance of Scenedesmus obliquus was studied in the laboratory in different concentration of sweetmeat factory waste media (SFWM). Four different concentrations viz. 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0% of SFWM and Bold basal medium (BBM) as control was used with three replications for a period of three months. Each trial was done for a period of 14 days in the laboratory. The initial density of Scenedesmus obliquus was 2.1×105 cell/ml which attained a maximum density of 136.30×105 cell/ml in BBM followed by 97.05, 83.21, 65.19 and 51.21 (×105 cell/ml) in 2.5, 0.3, 2.0 and 1.5 % SFWM respectively on the 10th day of culture. Highest chlorophyll a content was also observed on the 10th day of culture with value of 6.14 and 5.52 mg/l in BBM and SFWM, respectively. The specific growth rate (SGR, m/day) and total biomass were significantly (P<0.05) higher in BBM than all other treatments. The overall growth performance of the alga Scenedesmus obliquus was significantly (P<0.05) higher in 2.5% SFWM than other concentrations of SFWM. The cultured microalgae were found nutritionally rich. During the whole culture period the pH range was 7.03 to 8.05. The other physico-chemical parameters of the culture media were found within the suitable range of the microalgae culture. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v37i1.9874 BJAS 2008; 37(1): 86-93
Diseases of social and mental health: are we concerned?
Authors: Abu Sayeed M
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9851 Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): i-ii
Diagnostic significance of pleural fluid adenosine deaminase activity in tuberculous pleurisy
Authors: Ahmed Sharmeen , Fatema Reaz , Abu Saleh Ahmed , Sattar Mumayun , Miah Md Ruhul Amin
Published: February 2012

Diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) is difficult because of its non-specific clinical presentation and insufficient efficiency of conventional diagnostic methods. The study was carried out to evaluate the utility of adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity in pleural fluid for the diagnosis of TPE. ADA activity was measured in pleural fluid of 103 pleural effusion patients by colorimetric method using a commercial ADA assay kit. The diagnosis of TPE was made from pleural fluid examinations (including cytology, biochemistry, and bacteriology) and pleural biopsy. Patient with negative result of this methods were diagnosed by response of empirical treatment. Out of 130 cases, 62 (61.1%) had TPE and the remaining 41 (39.8%) had pleural effusion due to non tuberculous diseases. There was statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) between the mean of pleural fluid ADA levels (70.82±22.54 U/L) in TPE group and (30.07±22.93 U/L) in non-TPE group. Of 62 TPE cases, microscopy for AFB and culture for M.tuberculosis in pleural fluid revealed positivity in 9.6% and 22.5% cases respectively, and biopsy of pleura showed typical epithelioid granuloma in only 43.5% cases. The cut-off value of ADA for diagnosing TPE was 40 U/L using a ROC curve, with a sensitivity of 94% and specificity of 88%. Positive and negative predictive value of ADA assay were 92% and 90% respectively. The overall test accuracy was 90%. Pleural fluid ADA assay is therefore a simple, rapid, highly sensitive and specific adjunct test for diagnosis of TPE. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9852   Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 1-5 Keywords: Pleural fluid; adenosine deaminase; tuberculous pleural effusion
Inducible clindamycin resistance among staphylococci isolated from clinical samples in an urban hospital of Dhaka City
Authors: Akhter Shameem , Haque SM Zahurul , Rahman M Mushfequr
Published: February 2012

Inducible clindamycin resistance was detemined in 200 clinical isolates of staphylococci from pus (53.5%) and wound swab (46.5%). The study was done from July 2009 to June 2010, in the Department of Microbiology, BIHS Hospital Dhaka. Inducible clindamycin resistance was demonstrated by placing an erythromycin disc (15 ìg) 15 mm apart from the edge of a clindamycin (2 ìg) disc in Mueller Hinton agar. When the clindamycin inhibited zone becomes D- shaped the organism was regarded as positive for inducible resistance (D- test positive). Out of 200 staphylococci, 20% had inducible clindamycin resistance, 5% had constitutive clindamycin resistance and remaining 75% was clindamycin sensitive. In case of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), 48% had inducible clindamycin resistance while 11.5% was constitutively resistant to clindamycin and remainder were clindamycin sensitive. All clindamycin resistant strains were 100% sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid followed by gentamycin (42%) and tetracycline (42.3%). The findings demonstrated that a substantial proportion of staphylococci in our tertiary care hospital had inducible resistance to clindamycin.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 6-8 Key words: Staphylococcus aureus; Inducible clindamycin resistance; Constitutive clindamycin resistance; D-testDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9853
Body mass abdominal index: a new index for a diposity among pre-school children
Authors: Das Subal , Bose Kaushik
Published: February 2012

The new index Body Mass Abdominal Index (BMAI) has been derived by combining two separate indices – weight for height and waist for height ratios. Our study investigated the relationship of common indicators of abdominal adiposity – waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), waist-height ratio (WHTR), conicity index (CI) and newly proposed body mass abdominal index (BMAI) with body mass index (BMI) among 347 pre-school children of Purulia District, India. Results showed that significant correlations were observed for all adiposity measures except WHR. A noteworthy point was that the correlations were strongest (p < 0.01) with BMAI (boys: r = 0.863, girls: r = 0.863). The correlations of BMAI with BMI were similar in both sexes. In conclusion, our results indicate that the new index BMAI has a distinct advantage as it relates much strongly with overall adiposity (BMI) than the other commonly used indicators of adiposity.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 9-12 Key Words: Pre-school children; body mass index; body mass abdominal index; India.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9854
Knowledge, attitude and practice of maternal health care amongst the married women in a rural area of Bangladesh
Authors: Shirin Sonia
Published: February 2012

Bangladesh is facing a big challenge in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality. Addressing maternal health issues is now on the global social agenda in the new millennium. This cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in the unions of Sreepur Upazilla in March 2010 among 300 rural married women having at least one living child. Data were collected by face to face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice on maternal health care of married women in Sreepur Upazilla. The mean ± SD age of women was 33.5 ± 10.4 years and monthly income was Tk. 6,518.3 ± 5,142.4. Reproductive history of the women reveals that mean ± SD age at marriage, age at first child, and parity were 15.3 ± 2.9, 18.2 ± 3, 3 ± 2 years respectively. Only 42.3% of the respondents knew about swelling of the foot, 36.3% were aware of fits, 25.7% knew about severe headache and 24.7% knew about unusual bleeding as warning signs of pregnancy. About 84.3% respondents knew that the first meal of the baby should be colostrum. Among the participants 57%, 70.7% and 62.3% had average knowledge on ANC, INC and PNC respectively. Rural married women having a positive attitude towards maternal health care was 96.3% in ANC, 80% in home delivery, 61.3% in hospital delivery and 95.3% in PNC. It was found that 35.6% and 27.1% respondents were taking ANC 3 and 4 times respectively. Among the respondents 66.7% had done their laboratory examination and 84.7% took vitamins adequately. About 67.2% respondents performed normal physical work as before during pregnancy and 30.5% took more food than before. Home delivery was practiced by 88.3% respondents and 10.3% women delivered their baby at the hospital. Among the respondents who delivered their baby at home, 64.9% of them practiced few of the features of safe home delivery. Practice was good on ANC among 55.3% respondents where poor practice was found 69.3% on INC and 72.3% on PNC. Age and monthly income were related to knowledge on ANC (P<.001, P<.05) and PNC (P<.01, P<.05) respectively. Practice on maternal health care also related to socio-economic condition of the rural women. Women in rural settings are vulnerable due to poor maternal health care and exposed to risk of pregnancy and child birth. Appropriate health education activities, encouraging institutional delivery and development of socio-economic status are key factors to improve our maternal health.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 13-16 Key Words: Knowledge; attitude; practice; maternal health care; Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9855
Factors associated with secondary infertility
Authors: Momtaz Hasina , Flora Meerjady Sabrina , Shirin Sonia
Published: February 2012

Infertility is an experience that strikes at the very core of a woman’s life and as a whole her family and society. Studies in Bangladesh to evaluate the factors are difficult to come by. This case control study was carried out from Jan 2010 to June 2010 to find out the factors associated with secondary infertility. A total of 70 cases were selected from the infertility unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and 70 unmatched controls from the same hospital attending the pediatrics unit with their children were also recruited. Data were collected by interview and review of documents. No age difference was noticed between the cases (29.26 ± 4.13) and controls (29.21 ± 3.95). Association of secondary infertility was found with body mass index (p=0.036), previous bad obstetric history (p = 0.011) and previous caesarian delivery (p=0.044). Women with secondary infertility were more than four times more likely to have gynecological problem(s) than their fertile counterparts [OR 4.76 with 95% CI (2.018-11.270)]. The factors identified in this study might help the policy makers in designing prevention and health care programmes and thus reducing the hidden burden of secondary infertility.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 17-21 Key Words: Secondary infertility; factors; association.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9856
Effect of Nigella sativa Linn (Ranunculaceae) ground seed extract on carrageenan induced inflammation in rats
Authors: Parveen Saima , Bachar Sitesh Chandra , Begum Zinnat Ara
Published: February 2012

Nigella sativa Linn (Family: Ranunculaceae) Bengali name “kalo jera” is used as spice in Bengali foods. Native to Western Asia, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt, the black seed oil has been valued for its health benefits for centuries. This plant has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of stomach aches, asthma, bronchitis, coughs, fevers, tumour and as a tonic. The dried and grounded seed was extracted with ethanol and the extract was evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan induced rat paw edema model. The extracts were administered orally at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight, and statistically significant (p<0.05) anti-inflammatory effects were observed in a dose dependant manner. The extract showed 28.75% and 43.79% inhibition of inflammation at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight after first hour of the carrageenan administration which was comparable to that of standard drugs aspirin 40.52% and hydrocortisone 47.71% respectively. The result of this study supported the traditional medicinal uses of this seed.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 22-24 Key word: Nigella sativa; inflammation; carrageenanDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9857
Awareness of HIV/AIDS among the grass-widows
Authors: Mona Tazreen
Published: February 2012

The migrant workers in Bangladesh are at high risk of getting HIV infection due to factors like staying away from family for long periods which leave them vulnerable towards sexual relationship with commercial sex workers (CSW) and having sexual relationship with other men (MSM). This paper aimed to explore the level of awareness on HIV/AIDs among the women whose husbands stay apart from them for over a period of 6 months. For this cross sectional study, women attending public and private hospitals in Dhaka city were selected purposively. The participants were interviewed using a partially open-structured questionnaire. A total of 404 subjects were interviewed. Most of the respondents were housewives (85.7%). The higher education group had a high prevalence of awareness (>=HSC vs. SSC: 45.0% vs. 8.5%; p<0.001). The prevalence of awareness was significantly higher among the employed than the housewives (50% vs. 12.4%, p<0.001). Although the wives of the unskilled labor and the skilled employee were equal (25% vs. 25%), the wives of skilled employee had significantly higher awareness than the wives of the unskilled laborer (30.7 vs. 10.9%, p = 0.001). The study concludes that higher awareness level was significantly associated with higher education of the participants and higher education of the husband. Occupationally, housewives were found to have very low level of awareness compared with the employed group of participants. Again the wives of skilled employees had a significantly higher prevalence of awareness compared with the wives of unskilled laborer.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 25-28 Key Words: HIV/AIDs; awareness; grass-widows.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9858
Compound odontome with unerupted permanent incisor
Authors: Khan Mahfujul Haq , Karim Md Manjurul , Haque Sejuty , Khan Saeed Hossein , Alam Mohammad Towfiq
Published: February 2012

Odontomas are mixed odontogenic tumors composed of both epithelial and mesenchymal dental hard tissues. They are usually asymptomatic and are often discovered during routine radiography. A case of odontoma in a 21 year old man is described who presented with delayed eruption of upper central and lateral incisor teeth. The odontome was surgically removed followed by re-implantation of preserved extracted lateral incisor and a porcelain crown.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 29-31 Key Words: Odontoma; Impacted tooth; Re-implantation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9860
An 8-year-old boy with renal artery stenosis and cerebral infarct
Authors: Taimur Syed Dawood Md , Ahmed Tamzeed , Muinuddin Md Golam , Jahan Salma , Islam Farzana
Published: February 2012

Secondary hypertension is more common in children compared to that in adults, leading to organ damage and increased mortality. Renal artery stenosis could be a sequel to secondary hypertension in children and give rise to serious outcomes. A case of renal artery stenosis in an eight year old boy is presented in this study in whom PTA was performed with successful results. Blood pressure was controlled and all antihypertensive drugs could be withdrawn in a short period of time.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 32-33 Indexing words: Secondary hypertension; children; renal artery stenosis; surgery.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9862
Bee envenomation induced acute renal failure in an 8 year old child
Authors: Islam Farzana , Taimur Syed Dawood Md , Kabir CM Shaheen
Published: February 2012

Massive envenomations by bees are capable of causing multiorgan dysfunction as a result of direct toxic effects of the large venom load received. Although all varieties of honey bee have the potential for these attacks, the Africanized honey bee (Apis mellifera scutellata) is the most commonly implicated subspecies. In the United States, the Africanized strain is found primarily in the southwestern states and is known for its highly defensive behavior if disturbed. Mechanisms behind the multiorgan dysfunction produced by these mass envenomations are not clearly understood. We present a case of an 8-year-old boy who was stung by multiple bees and developed progressive upper-body swelling and systemic manifestations of mass envenomation including rhabdomyolysis, renal insufficiency, and a transient transaminase elevation.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2011; 5(1): 34-36 Key Words: environmental risk; renal failure; rhabdomyolysis; bee envenomation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/imcj.v5i1.9872
Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effects of the Red Ginseng Essential Oil in H2O2-Treated HepG2 Cells and CCl4-Treated Mice
Authors: Bak Min-Ji , Jun Mira , Jeong Woo-Sik
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant mechanisms of red ginseng essential oil (REO) in cells as well as in an animal model. REO was prepared by a supercritical CO2 extraction of waste-products generated after hot water extraction of red ginseng. In HepG2 cells, REO diminished the H2O2-mediated oxidative stress and also restored both the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Administration of REO inhibited the phosphorylation of upstream mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and p38. In mice, the CCl4-mediated elevation of serum aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase as well as the induction of hepatic lipid peroxidation were decreased by REO administration. REO treatments also resulted in up-regulation of the antioxidant enzyme expression in the liver. Moreover, increased phosphorylations of MAPKs were inhibited after REO administration. Overall, REO seems to protect the liver from oxidative stress through the activation and induction of antioxidant enzymes via inhibition of MAPKs pathways.
A New Bromoallene-Producing Chemical Type of the Red Alga Laurencia nangii Masuda
Authors: Kamada Takashi , Vairappan Charles Santhanaraju
Published: February 2012

Six populations of Laurencia nangii were found to produce three bromoallenes; dihydroitomanallene B (1), itomanallene B (2) and pannosallene (3). Prior to this report, L. nangii were only known to produce C15-acetogenins with acetylene functionality. This could be regarded as a new chemical race of L. nangii. The compound structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and comparison with those previously reported in literature. Compound 1, dihydroitomanallene B, was isolated as a new compound representing a minor variation of itomanallene B (2).
Population genetic analysis of Bromus tectorum (Poaceae) indicates recent range expansion may be facilitated by specialist genotypes
Authors: Merrill Keith R. , Meyer Susan E. , Coleman Craig E.
Published: February 2012

• Premise of the study: The mechanisms for range expansion in invasive species depend on how genetic variation is structured in the introduced range. This study examined neutral genetic variation in the invasive annual grass Bromus tectorum in the Intermountain Western United States. Patterns of microsatellite (SSR) genotype distribution in this highly inbreeding species were used to make inferences about the roles of adaptively significant genetic variation, broadly adapted generalist genotypes, and facultative outcrossing in the recent range expansion of B. tectorum in this region.

• Methods: We sampled 20 individuals from each of 96 B. tectorum populations from historically and recently invaded habitats throughout the region and used four polymorphic SSR markers to characterize each individual.

• Key results: We detected 131 four‐locus SSR genotypes; however, the 14 most common genotypes collectively accounted for 79.2% of the individuals. Common SSR genotypes were not randomly distributed among habitats. Instead, characteristic genotypes sorted into specific recently invaded habitats, including xeric warm and salt desert as well as mesic high‐elevation habitats. Other SSR genotypes were common across a range of historically invaded habitats. We observed very few heterozygous individuals (0.58%).

• Conclusions: Broadly adapted, generalist genotypes appear to dominate historically invaded environments, while recently invaded salt and warm desert habitats are dominated by distinctive SSR genotypes that contain novel alleles. These specialist genotypes are not likely to have resulted from recombination; they probably represent more recent introductions from unknown source populations. We found little evidence that outcrossing plays a role in range expansion.
Development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in Cyclobalanopsis glauca (Fagaceae)
Authors: Tong Xin , Xu Na‐Na , Li Ling , Chen Xiao‐Yong
Published: February 2012

• Premise of the study: We isolated and characterized polymorphic microsatellite loci in Cyclobalanopsis glauca (Fagaceae), an evergreen broadleaved monoecious tree, to provide tools for analyzing parentage and mating system.

• Methods and Results: Thirteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed and tested in three C. glauca populations. The number of alleles per locus varied from two to 22. The observed and expected heterozygosities within populations were 0.000–0.967 and 0.033–0.949, respectively.

• Conclusions: These polymorphic primers showed high levels of polymorphism within tested populations, and can be used in parentage analysis and mating system estimation of C. glauca.
INFORMAL INVESTORS IN CHILE: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY FROM A GENDER PERSPECTIVE / NEFORMALIŲ INVESTUOTOJŲ (PAGAL LYTĮ) TYRIMAS ČILĖJE
Authors: Romaní Gianni , Atienza Miguel , Amorós José Ernesto
Published: February 2012

Informal investment represents one of the main sources to finance early-stage new ventures. Despite the progressive participation of women in informal investment, little is known about the characteristics of female informal investors, especially in developing countries. This study examines the gender differences of a sample of 613 informal investors in Chile. To this end we used the database from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Chile 2007–2008 and applied tests of differences in proportions and means for independent samples. The results show that there are significant gender differences in some socio-demographic variables, like education and work status, and also in the perception of good opportunities and the fear to failure. Additionally, women invest smaller amounts and expect lower returns than men do. Finally, women invest more than men in close family. Policy implications of these results are discussed. Santrauka Neformalios investicijos – vienas pagrindinių šaltinių, iš kurių finansuojamos naujai besikuriančios arba tik pradėjusios savo veiklą įmonės. Nepaisant to, kad neformalioje investicijų veikloje palaipsniui daugėja moterų, gana mažai žinoma apie jas kaip neformalias investuotojas, ypač besivystančiose šalyse. Autoriai atliko tyrimą Čilėje, kuriame dalyvavo 613 skirtingų lyčių investuotojų, kurie buvo paimti iš duomenų bazės „Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Chile 2007–2008 m“. Autorių atliktų tyrimų rezultatai rodo, kad vis dėlto kai kuriuose socialiniuose demografiniuose kintamuosiuose esama reikšmingų lyčių skirtumų, pavyzdžiui, išsilavinimas ir užimamos pareigos, perspektyvų darbovietėje suvokimas, karjera ir nesėkmės baimė. Atlikę tyrimą autoriai nustatė, kad moterys labiau linkusios investuoti mažesnes sumas nei vyrai.
Soins infirmiers et spiritualité : d'une démarche systématique à l'accueil d'une expérience
Authors: Vonarx Nicolas , Lavoie Mireille
Published: February 2012

Résumé Dans le champ des soins infirmiers, le sujet de la religion ou de la spiritualité apparaît souvent sous l’angle de problèmes de santé, de détresse spirituelle et de besoins spirituels. On assiste ici à un découpage et une traduction des réalités de santé qui finissent par faire voir des catégories et des logiques significatives pour les infirmières et par nous faire perdre de vue ce que vivent les personnes quand elles sont confrontées à des événements difficiles. Pour ces raisons et constatant l’impératif de renouer avec des approches plus sensibles au vécu quand il est question d’aborder le sujet de la spiritualité, les auteurs proposent une réflexion critique sur la spiritualité telle qu’elle est déclinée et présentée dans les démarches de soins infirmiers. De là et à partir des impairs qu’ils soulignent, ils reviennent sur la dimension spirituelle d’une expérience de santé-maladie qui devrait être selon eux au cœur des préoccupations infirmières.
« Comment dire Je dans un corps qui devient fou ? »
Authors: Lombard Marjorie
Published: February 2012

Résumé A travers notre expérience aux côtés de patients atteints de cancers, nous avons été exposés à une question clinique fondamentale : l’expérience subjective du lien entre les patients et un être aimé. Quelle peut être la teneur des pertes passées lorsqu’un individu, autrefois témoin du cancer chez un proche, s’incarne brutalement acteur dans l’occurrence de cette même pathologie ? Ce « petit bout de savoir en plus » induit par cette place de témoin préalable est ici interrogé dans ce potentiel pathogène souvent annoncé. Il se trouve que ces liens, ainsi revisités, étayent le sujet dans la position de « deuilleur ». Nous serons, nous-mêmes, témoins d’un vécu d’« inquiétante étrangeté » que peut constituer le basculement d’une place de spectateur à celle d’acteur qui précipite le sujet sur la scène dramatique incarnée par son corps blessé. Afin d’étudier ce paysage psychique, nous étayerons notre réflexion à partir de la rencontre avec M me R.
Global History: Opportunities, Dangers, Recent Trends
Authors: Kocka Jürgen
Published: February 2012

In contrast to national historical approaches, global history responds to the cultural and intellectual needs of communities, societies and cultures are increasingly interconnected. Global history is an appropriate way of looking to “our past”, in an era of accelerated globalization, helping to “de-provincialize” the discipline. For historians of Europe, global history approaches offer a useful ground for embedding, relativizing and enriching their views and perspectives, even when they continue to work as historians of Europe and do not contemplate to become global historians.
As many examples show, global history is emerging as a field in which new forms of cooperation between history and the neighbouring disciplines, particularly the social sciences, can be practiced in new ways. Global history revives the interest in comprehensive structures and large-scale processes; it enhances the analytical power of history as a discipline. It also raises several problems which are not yet resolved. Very different types of discourses and studies are usually lumped together under the heading of “global history”, four of them are here considered.
Tangled ecosystem models: the temptation of siren songs and silence
Authors: Ruiz Javier , Kuikka Sakari
Published: February 2012

At a meeting on marine ecosystem modelling held in Barcelona in November 2010, a wide range of tools were introduced by their developers. An officer of the European Commission was invited to the meeting as a key client of these tools, and he severely criticized the tools presented as being useless. This criticism led to a strong reaction by the modellers and an interesting debate. In this paper we summarize part of this debate, focusing on one of the potential reasons why final users are not using these tools: the isomorphism between the ecosystem and its deterministic representation through mathematical equations is fragile and a new generation of maps is necessary to represent the intrinsic uncertainty of their dynamics through models.
In vitro lethal effect of Zingiber officinale R. on protoscolices of hydatid cyst from sheep liver
Authors: Moazeni Mohammad , Nazer Ali
Published: February 2012

Cystic echinococcosis (Hydatid disease) is a zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus. The aim of this study, was to evaluate the scolicidal activity of methanolic extract of Zingiber officinale (Rosc.) family Zingibe - raceae, against protoscolices of hydatid cyst. Protoscolices were collected aseptically from sheep livers containing hydatid cyst and were exposed to different concentrations of ginger extract for various exposure times. Scolicidal activity of Z. officinale extract at concentration of 25 mg/mL was 25.6%, 39.1%, 56.7%, 83.7%, 98.1% and 100% after 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min of exposure respectively. Scolicidal effect of this extract at concentration of 50 mg/mL was 52%, 85.8 %, 99.6% and 100% after 10, 20, 30 and 40 min of exposure respectively. Z. officinale extract at concentration of 100 mg/mL killed 76.5 %, 87% and 100 % of protoscolices after 10, 20 and 30 min respectivly. The results of this study showed that the methanolic extract of Z. officinale has high scolicidal activity and might be used as a natural scolicidal agent.
Effect of brefelidin A and monensin on Japanese encephalitis virus maturation and virus release from cells
Authors: Lad Vaibhavi Jawahar , Gupta Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2012

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) replicates in a variety of cells, the exact intracellular site of virus assembly is somewhat obscure. The aims of this study were to investigate the role Golgi apparatus in JEV maturation by utilizing two Golgi-disrupting agents- brefeldin A (BFA) and monensin (MN) that inhibit virus assembly at specific cellular sites. JEV-infected porcine kidney stable (PS) cells were treated with BFA (2 ug/ mL) or MN (10 uM/ mL) at different h post-infection (p. i.) and the virus contents were assayed after 48 h p. i. The treated cells were further subjected to immuno-fluorescence (IF) using antibodies directed against JEV envelope glycoprotein (gpE) for localization of intracellular viral antigen as well as the antigen expression on the cell surface. Addition of BFA or MN to cells immediately after virus adsorption or at 4 h and 12 h postinfection (p. i.), resulted in 4- or 8- fold reduction in infectious virus contents along with inhibition of its transport to the cell surface, indicating an essential role of the Golgi-associated membranes in JEV replication. Interestingly, the antigenicity of the virus, in contrast, remained unaffected as no difference in epitope presentation/ expression was observed in BFA/MN-treated and control (untreated) infected cells even though in the former cells a loss of hemagglutinating (HA) activity was observed. Further, BFA addition at 18 h or 24 h p. i. showed only a negligible effect on virus suggesting that once the viral-associated membranes are formed, these membranes appear to be stable. In contrast, the inhibition with MN persisted even after its addition to cells at 18 h and 24 h p. i., indicating its sustained effect on JEV. Although BFA inhibits protein transport from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi complex while MN inhibits transport from medial to trans cisternae of the Golgi complex, none of the two agents however affected the gpE synthesis and folding essentially required for the epitope presentation/expression within the cells. As flaviviruses are known to encode three glycoproteins (gps) within their genomes i. e., prM, E, and NS, it will be worthwhile in future to determine whether vesicular transport occurs within or between the virus-induced membranes and how the individual JEV-encoded proteins are transported to discrete compartments further remain to be seen.
Computational Design of Targeted Inhibitors of Polo-Like Kinase 1 (Plk1)
Authors: Jani Krupa S. , Dalafave D.S.
Published: February 2012

Computational design of small molecule putative inhibitors of Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is presented. Plk1, which regulates the cell cycle, is often over expressed in cancers. Down regulation of Plk1 has been shown to inhibit tumor progression. Most kinase inhibitors interact with the ATP binding site on Plk1, which is highly conserved. This makes the development of Plk1-specific inhibitors challenging, since different kinases have similar ATP sites. However, Plk1 also contains a unique region called the polo-box domain (PBD), which is absent from other kinases. In this study, the PBD site was used as a target for designed Plk1 putative inhibitors. Common structural features of several experimentally known Plk1 ligands were first identified. The findings were used to design small molecules that specifically bonded Plk1. Drug likeness and possible toxicities of the molecules were investigated. Molecules with no implied toxicities and optimal drug likeness values were used for docking studies. Several molecules were identified that made stable complexes only with Plk1 and LYN kinases, but not with other kinases. One molecule was found to bind exclusively the PBD site of Plk1. Possible utilization of the designed molecules in drugs against cancers with over expressed Plk1 is discussed.
Integrative Analysis of Response to Tamoxifen Treatment in ER-Positive Breast Cancer Using GWAS Information and Transcription Profiling
Authors: Hicks Chindo , Kumar Ranjit , Pannuti Antonio , Miele Lucio
Published: February 2012

Variable response and resistance to tamoxifen treatment in breast cancer patients remains a major clinical problem. To determine whether genes and biological pathways containing SNPs associated with risk for breast cancer are dysregulated in response to tamoxifen treatment, we performed analysis combining information from 43 genome-wide association studies with gene expression data from 298 ER+breast cancer patients treated with tamoxifen and 125 ER+controls. We identified 95 genes which distinguished tamoxifen treated patients from controls. Additionally, we identified 54 genes which stratified tamoxifen treated patients into two distinct groups. We identified biological pathways containing SNPs associated with risk for breast cancer, which were dysregulated in response to tamoxifen treatment. Key pathways identified included the apoptosis, P53, NFkB, DNA repair and cell cycle pathways. Combining GWAS with transcription profiling provides a unified approach for associating GWAS findings with response to drug treatment and identification of potential drug targets.
Role of Metastasis in Hypertabastic Survival Analysis of Breast Cancer: Interaction with Clinical and Gene Expression Variables
Authors: Tabatabai Mohammad A. , Eby Wayne M. , Nimeh Nadim , Singh Karan P.
Published: February 2012

This paper analyzes the survival of breast cancer patients, exploring the role of a metastasis variable in combination with clinical and gene expression variables. We use the hypertabastic model in a detailed analysis of 295 breast cancer patients from the Netherlands Cancer Institute given in. 1 In comparison to Cox regression the increase in accuracy is complemented by the ability to analyze the time course of the disease progression using the explicitly described hazard and survival curves. We also demonstrate the ability to compute deciles for survival and probability of survival to a given time. Our primary concern in this article is the introduction of a variable representing the existence of metastasis and the effects on the other clinical and gene expression variables. In addition to making a quantitative assessment of the impact of metastasis on the prospects for survival, we are able to look at its interactions with the other prognostic variables. The estrogen receptor status increase in importance, while the significance of the gene expression variables used in the combined model diminishes. When considering only the subgroup of patients who experienced metastasis, the covariates in the model are only the clinical variables for estrogen receptor status and tumor grade.
Safety and Efficacy of Pemetrexed in Maintenance Therapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Velez Michel , Arango Belisario A. , Perez Cesar A. , Santos Edgardo S.
Published: February 2012

Lung cancer incidence continues to rise and is the number one cause of cancer death in both men and women worldwide with projected 221,130 new cases and 156,940 deaths in the United States in 2011. 1 Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents more than 85% of the cases with most patients having either locally advanced or metastatic disease at the time of initial diagnosis, and approximately 60%–70% of them have an adenocarcinoma histologic subtype. In the last three years, we have seen several advances in the management of NSCLC, with several factors playing an important role in the treatment decision making process. Maintenance therapy has been added to the algorithm of NSCLC management and Pemetrexed has been studied as single agent or in combination in this setting with recent studies showing safety and improved progression free survival (PFS) and/or overall survival (OS), still the disease for the most part has a dismal outcome. More research work needs to be done to identify which patients truly benefit from these approaches, and to whom we should offer maintenance or switch maintenance vs. close observation.