bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Critcal Study of Driving Performance of Heavy Duty Vehicle Running
on Long Downhill Road Using Engine Brake
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Yuan Xiaolei , Yu Qiang
Published: December 2014

For ensuring safety of heavy duty vehicles running on long downhill sections, a model was built for the
application of engine brake and service brake combination based on test results. A model of brake temperature rise for
heavy duty vehicles running on long downhill sections was also constructed. For different braking modes, gear positions,
speed and downhill slopes, brake temperature rising to 250°C was used as the index. Then simulation of brake
temperature rise and downhill distance was researched. Simulation results illustrate that the combined braking of low gear
and high speed should be adopted for heavy duty vehicles running on long downhill sections.
Nonlinear Dynamics for Gear Fault Level
Authors: Xunwen Su , Jinhao Liu , Shaoping Wang
Published: December 2014

Since there are backlash friction and time-varying stiffness, the characteristics of gear pair has strong
nonlinearity. When a gear has faults such as pitting, spalling and tooth breakage, there are often some nonlinear
characteristics as super-harmonics or sub-harmonics along with vibration signal. These characteristics will cause some
difficulty for fault diagnostics, so it is necessary to study the mechanism of nonlinear vibration. Fourier expression was
used to describe time-varying stiffness, a factor was used to depict gear fault level and nonlinear dynamics model for gear
fault level was established. Simulation results show that, with certain friction and rotating speed, the nonlinear vibration
has direct relationship with rotating speed and gear friction and has no direct relationship with fault types.
Assessment Method for Rolling Bearing Performance Degradation Using TESPAR and GMM
Authors: Zhang Long , Huang Wen-yi , Xiong Guo-liang , Zhou Ji-hui
Published: December 2014

Rolling bearing performance degradation assessment has been receiving much attention for which itscrucial
role to realize CBM(condition-based maintenance).This paper proposed a novel bearing performance degradation method
based on TESPAR(Time Encoded Signal Processing and Recognition)and GMM(Gauss Mixture Model). TESPAR is
used to extracted features which constitute A-matrix. GMM is utilized to approximate the density distribution of singular
values decomposed by A-matrix. TENLLP(Time-Encoded Negative Log Likelihood Probability) serves as a fault severity
which can display the similarity of the singular values between normal samples and fault samples as quantificational.
Results of its application to bearing fatigue test show that this performance degradation assessment can detect the
incipient rolling bearing fault and be sensitive to the change of fault.
Research on Grey System Model and Its Application on Displacement
Prediction in Tunnel Surrounding Rock
Authors: Xiong Xiaobo
Published: December 2014

In the process of the highway tunnel construction, the stability and the reliability of tunnel rock is an important
guarantee to ensure safety construction. Tunnel surrounding rock deformation monitoring is an important method for
obtaining information on surrounding rock and controlling tunnel stability in the period of construction. Forecasting
deformation of surrounding rock is the key to estimate shoring types, parameter and longtime stability after being
commissioned for use. Considering the non-linear characteristic of deformation of the tunnel, the grey system prediction
models were proposed. Based on the displacement of Guankouya rock tunnel, grey models of the GM(1, 1) and the Model
DGM(2, 1) were established for the tunnel grey forecasting model of the rock tunnel displacement. The calculated results
show that two models for tunnel displacement generally were predictable. GM(1, 1) and DGM(2, 1) models are similar to
the tunnel displacement development model. Application examples demonstrate that it has extraordinary adaptability to
the tunnel displacement forecast and all types of surrounding rock displacement can be predicted better by the grey model
and the model has high simulation and prediction accuracy.
A Method of Determining Rail Grinding Parameters Based On Life-Cycle
Cost
Authors: Jianxi Wang , Siyi Chen , Jirong Gui
Published: December 2014

The factors affecting the economy efficiency of rail grinding and their interrelation are researched. Based on the
management theory of life-cycle cost, the model of analyzing rail grinding parameters is established, the calculation method
is determined, and minimizing the rail life-cycle cost is regarded as optimization objective for the optimal analysis of grinding
factor. The results prove that with certain parameters (grinding interval and mental removal), the total present value of rail
cost tends to decrease firstly and then increase with the increase of rail service life. With the increase of the grinding interval,
the total present value of rail cost also tends to decrease firstly and then increase, and there is an extreme point in the variation
tendency. In the economic cost of rail service life, rail replacement and waste of railway taking-up cost are two of the biggest
parts. Therefore, reasonable rail maintenance strategy plays a significant role in reducing life-cycle cost.
Alzheimer Disease Pathology in Middle Age Reveals a Spatial-Temporal Disconnect Between Amyloid-β and Phosphorylated Tau
Authors: Fornicola Whitney , Pelcovits Ari , Li Bei-Xu , Heath Jonathan , Perry George , Castellani Rudy J
Published: December 2014

We studied the brain distribution of amyloid-β (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau (τ) in 20 consecutive autopsy cases between the ages of 51 and 65, with no history of neurologic disease during life. We note that early accumulations of Aβ and τ occur in distinct neuroanatomical distributions. In the locus ceruleus and medial temporal lobe allocortex τ often occurs in the absence of diffuse Aβ and that Aβ occurs in the neocortex in the absence of τ. In those cases with both Aβ and τ were present in the sections, there was no overlap at the microanatomical or cellular level. APOE genotype was also assessed, showing no specific relationship with the presence or distribution of Aβ and τ, although the numbers of cases were limited. These findings indicate that the early appearances of hallmark proteins of Alzheimer’s disease are disconnected both in time and in space, suggesting that both are reactive phenomena with no mechanistic relationship in aging or preclinical disease.
Before the Vaccines: Medical Treatments of Acute Paralysis in the 1916 New York Epidemic of Poliomyelitis
Authors: H.V Wyatt
Published: December 2014

Hospitals in New York were overwhelmed by the epidemic. With nothing known about the virus, most cases were treated with traditional or symptomatic remedies. New treatments were made though unsuccessful. Serum from various sources was given although it was many years before this was found to be ineffectual. Lumbar puncture was made, sometimes with additions. Although this became standard treatment, there were some who thought it was harmful. Many histories of polio ignore treatment.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum Following the Revision of a Breast Reconstruction and Abdominoplasty
Authors: Nakamura Mio , M. Ghaznavi Amir , Darian Vigen , Siddiqui Aamir
Published: December 2014

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare ulcerative dermatologic disease and little is known about its etiology and
pathogenesis. Recent reports show that there have been limited but increasing number of cases of PG following aesthetic
surgeries. Post-surgical PG is often misdiagnosed, which can have serious clinical consequences. The following case
report describes a young woman who underwent a cosmetic breast augmentation and abdominoplasty which was
complicated by post-operative necrotizing fasciitis. She was presented one year later for surgical correction of her
acquired breast and abdominal deformities. Post-operatively she developed a severe inflammatory skin response presumed
to be a wound infection. However, after repeated surgical debridements, the wounds persisted without a defined bacterial
or fungal organism. After clinical exclusion of all other etiologies, PG was diagnosed and confirmed with histopathology.
The patient was subsequently treated with aggressive immunosuppressive therapy, and the lesions resolved without any
signs of residual PG. This case report attempts to increase awareness for the rare post-surgical complication of PG in
aesthetic surgery and to improve future diagnosis and management of such cases.
Relationship Agreements and Willingness to Participate in Couples HIV Testing and Counseling Among Heterosexuals in the U.S.
Authors: Jones Jeb S , Stephenson Rob , Wall Kristin M , Sullivan Patrick S
Published: December 2014

Couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC) has been used for more than 20 years in African settings and more recently among men who have sex with men in the United States, but little is known about willingness of heterosexuals in the U.S. to use CHTC. We conducted an online survey of heterosexuals in sexual relationships to assess willingness to use CHTC and willingness to discuss relationship agreements within a couples counseling session. We found moderate levels of willingness to use CHTC and somewhat higher levels of willingness to discuss relationship agreements in a couples counseling session. The most frequently cited reason people were not willing was that they did not perceive themselves or their partners to be at risk for HIV. These results will be useful in planning for CHTC implementation for heterosexuals in the U.S.
Performance Analysis During the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualification
Authors: Flégl Martin
Published: December 2014

This article analyzes the performance of the national football teams during the 2014 FIFA World Cup
qualification. The sample consists of 31 qualified national teams to the final tournament in Brazil. The analysis uses Data
Envelopment Analysis (DEA) methodology and is carried out for the whole qualification period between June 2011 and
November 2013. Each national team is evaluated according to a number of played matches, used players, qualification
group quality, obtained points, and score. The results show that only 12.9% teams reached the performance of 100%. The
reasons of low performances mainly depend on teams´ qualities either in each qualification zone or in each qualification
group. In addition, a sensitivity analysis is used to confirm the adequate structure of the DEA model.
Spectrum Analysis of Wireless Electromyography in Water and on Dry Land: A Single Case Example
Authors: Martens Jonas , Janssens Luc , Staes Filip , Dingenen Bart , Daly Daniel
Published: December 2014

Recent developments in wireless capture of muscle activity signals have improved the freedom of motion and
the ease of use. Nevertheless, no study has examined the quality of wireless electromyographic technology during water
activities. In this study the performance of a surface electromyography (SEMG) wireless system on dry land and in water
was compared. Tibialis anterior muscle activity of 1 subject while contracting against a resistance of 84 Newton (N) was
measured in 2 conditions: using a wireless (KINE) system with waterproof taping on the pool deck and submerged.
Analysis of the raw signal showed acceptable ratios of 37 to 44 decibel (dB) between rest activity and the force activity at
84 N in both conditions. The total spectrum analysis and short term frequency analysis showed that no filtering occurred
in either of the two conditions as frequencies were picked up in the entire spectrum. Spectrum analysis of rest activity or
of the force buildup showed no spikes indicating any pickup of noise. The wireless system produced clean results and
submersion and as a consequence recollection from the memory of the unit did not cause additional noise. Furthermore,
the wireless system provided a satisfactory signal-to-rest activity ratio of approximately 40 dB and a range of 4 millivolts
(mV). The KINE EMG units provided a valid means to analyze muscle activity during swimming while permitting
unrestricted movement and ease of use.
FBILI method for the two-level atom line formation in media with low velocity fields
Authors: Pirkovic I. , Atanackovic O.
Published: December 2014

In this paper we generalized the fast convergent Forth-and-Back Implicit
Lambda Iteration (FBILI) method to the solution of the two-level atom line
transfer problems in media with low velocity fields using the observer?s
reference frame. In order to test the accuracy and the convergence properties
of the method we solved several astrophysically important benchmark problems
of the NLTE line formation: in a plan-parallel differentially expanding
medium of finite thickness, and in spherically symmetric stellar atmospheres,
both static and expanding. We compared our solutions with those obtained by
other authors using different numerical methods.
Modelling of forest fires time evolution in the USA on the basis of long term variations and dynamics of the temperature of the solar wind protons
Authors: Radovanovic Milan , Vyklyuk Yaroslav , Malinovic-Milicevic Slavica , Jakovljevic Dejana , Pecelj Milovan
Published: December 2014

The work examines the potential causative link between the flow of protons,
i.e. temperature of the particles that are coming from the sun and forest
fires in the USA. For determination of the degree of randomness for time
series of input (temperature of protons) and output parameters (number of
forest fires), the R/S analysis is conducted. The analysis of fractal
dimension provides us an opportunity to compare self-similar processes in the
influx of protons and the time series of forest fires flashes. Therefore we
developed and conducted the sensitivity analysis of model based on hybrid
neural networks ANFIS. As the calculations showed, only 16% of the real
forest flashes cannot be predicted by the model.
Surgical treatment of orbital floor blowout fracture in children: A case report
Authors: Tabakovic Sasa , Ilic-Dimitrijevic Ivana
Published: December 2014

Introduction. Orbital floor blowout fracture is a common traumatic lesion of
the craniofacial complex, but rarely in children population, consequently
representing challenge in surgical treatment. Timely diagnosis and surgical
treatment prevent the probability of the occurrence of the functional
complications. Case report. We presented surgical treatment of on 8-year-old
girl with a blowout orbital floor fracture one month after the injury. The
predominant symptoms were: ocular bulb motility disorder with consecutive
strabismus and double vision. Orbital floor reconstruction was made by an
autogenous mandibular symphyseal graft. A year after the orbital floor
reconstruction additional correction of strabismus was performed due to
functional disorder of the bulbomotor muscles. Conclusion. Delayed surgical
treatment of blowout orbital floor fracture in children leads to
unsatisfactory functional results in the majority of cases. In such a
situation surgical correction of strabismus is necessary in order to obtain
functionally quality vision and satisfactory aesthetic appearance.
Short-term effects produced by rapid maxillary expansion and facemask therapy in Class III patients with different vertical skeletal relationships
Authors: Pavoni Chiara , Masucci Caterina , Cerroni Silvia , Franchi Lorenzo , Cozza Paola
Published: December 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate the dentoskeletal short-term effects of rapid maxillary expansion and facemask therapy (RME/FM) in a sample of Class III patients showing different vertical skeletal relationships.

Materials and Methods: 

Seventy-nine patients (35 females and 44 males) having Class III malocclusion were consecutively treated using RME/FM therapy with application of the protraction force in a downward and forward direction and inclination of about 30° to the occlusal plane. All patients were evaluated at the beginning (T1; mean age, 7.7 years) and at the end (T2; mean age, 9.2 years) of orthopedic therapy and divided into three groups according to their vertical skeletal relationships: normal group (NG), hypodivergent group (HypoG), and hyperdivergent group (HyperG). Statistical comparisons between the three groups were performed on the starting forms (T1), the final forms (T2), and the treatment changes (T1–T2) using the ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc tests.

Results: 

Favorable modification in terms of maxillary advancement (changes in SNA ranging from 1.4° to 1.8°) and intermaxillary sagittal skeletal relationships (changes in Wits appraisal ranging from 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm) were recorded in all groups. The three groups showed no statistically significant differences in changes in either sagittal or vertical skeletal variables.

Conclusions: 

The various vertical skeletal features do not influence the short-term outcomes of RME/FM therapy.
Comparison of Outcome of Lateral K-Wire Fixation Verses Medio-Lateral Crossed K-Wire Fixation for Displaced Extension Type of Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Children
Authors: Gupta HK , Chaurasia D
Published: December 2014

INTRODUCTION: Supracondylar humeral fractures are the most common elbow fractures seen in children. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of lateral entry pin fixation with that of medial and lateral entry pin fixation for the operative treatment of displaced extension supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Total of 50 cases of displaced supracondylar fracture humerus were enrolled in study, 25 cases in two equal groups, Group A and group B. Group A received treatment by closed reduction with lateral k-wire fixation and Group B received treatment by closed reduction and medio-lateral k-wire fixation. The cases were followed at 4 weeks when slab was removed and physiotherapy started, and at 12 weeks for final outcome. The outcome was measured as per Flynn's criteria.RESULTS: The mean age of patents in group A was 6.40 years and in group B was 6.44 years. At final follow up, in group A, 18 (72%) cases had excellent, 7 (28%) good result, in group B; 20 (80%) had excellent, and 5 (20%) had good result. The p- value (0.08) derived between them was statistically not significant. Three pateints got superficial pin tract infection in group A and two iatrogenic ulnar nerve injury and one pin had pintract infection in group B. There were also no significant differences (p value- 0.697) between groups with respect to the baumann angle. CONCLUSION: Both lateral entry pin fixation and medio- lateral entry pin fixation are effective in the treatment of completely displaced (type-III) extension supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. Although there remains subtle risk of ulnar nerve injury in medio-lateral pin fixation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i3.11823 Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences Vol.2(3) 2014: 20-25
Untersuchungen zum Phänomen Schleifbrand
Authors: Thiemann P. , Dollinger C. , Goch G.
Published: December 2014

Kurzfassung

Das Thema Schleifbrand war bereits Gegenstand vieler Untersuchungen in der Wissenschaft sowie der industriellen Forschung. Nach wie vor ist das Phänomen dieser thermo-mechanischen Schädigungen hartfein-bearbeiteter Werkstoffrandzonen nicht zufriedenstellend charakterisiert oder definiert. In der Industrie existiert ein großes Interesse an der Thematik, da ein zuverlässiges und serientaugliches Messverfahren für die Erfassung des Zustandes geschliffener Oberflächen fehlt. Die präsentierten Arbeiten befassen sich mit der Erzeugung und Charakterisierung thermo-mechanischer Schädigungen in einem Außenrundschleifprozess sowie der Erfassung dieser unerwünschten Veränderungen mit dem Verfahren der Barkhausenrausch-Analyse. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass bereits vor Auftreten konventionell detektierbarer Gefügeänderungen Zugeigenspannungen durch Schleifprozesse in die Randzone eingebracht werden können. Die Barkhausenrausch-Analyse ermöglicht bei Kombination mehrerer Prüfgrößen eine zuverlässige Erfassung dieser Eigenspannungs- und Gefügeänderungen.
Evaluating Heat Transfer Conditions in Gas Cooling for Complex Specimen Geometries
Authors: Bucquet T. , Fritsching U.
Published: December 2014

A comparative study has been carried out for an analysis of the heat transfer conditions in a gas cooling process of metallic specimens. Two different specimen geometries, namely a bevel gear and a helical gear streamed by a high-velocity cooling air flow at atmospheric pressure are investigated. Local and integral heat transfer coefficient distributions of these relevant specimen geometries have been monitored using direct and indirect measurement techniques as well as numerical simulations. It is found that the measurements of the helical gear are well correlated by classical correlations found in the literature. However the heat transfer from the bevel gear tends to be underpredicted when using standard correlations. In both cases, numerical simulations give satisfying predictions of the local heat transfer coefficient.
Hypercalciuria is an important cause of urinary tract infection in children
Authors: Abdullah Muhsina , Hossain Md Shahadat , Khan Md Anwar Hossain , Uddin Md Nasir , Ishrat Rumana , Jahan Nur Wa Bushra , Rahman Md Mahabubr , Alam Mohammed Morshed
Published: December 2014

Urinary tract infection is a common disease in paediatric practice and an important cause of morbidity. Recurrence is frequent and occurs in approximately 40% in female and 32% in male. The association of hypercalciuria and UTI has been pointed out by several authors from different countries during the last 7-10 years. This prospective case control study was designed to evaluate the association between hypercalciuria and UTI in children in the department of Biochemistry, DMC and National Institute of Kidney Diseases and Urology (NIKDU) from July 2007- June 2008 on 30 cases of diagnosed UTI and 40 age-sex matched apparently healthy control. Blood samples of all study subjects were analyzed for serum total calcium concentration to exclude hyper or hypocalcaemia. Random urine samples were analyzed for urinary calcium creatinine ratio to screen hypercalciuria. In this study, urinary calcium creatinine ratio ? 0.20 was considered as hypercalciuria. Hypercalciuria were reported in 46.7% cases whereas only in 20.0% controls which was significantly higher in cases (p<0.05). Among the cases, 76.7% had recurrent UTI and 23.3% had first time UTI. Hypercalciuria were reported in 52.2% cases with recurrent UTI and only in 28.6% cases with first time UTI. Hypercalciuria in cases with recurrent UTI were also found significantly higher compared to controls (p<0.05). It was therefore concluded that hypercalciuria is associated with UTI and is an important cause of UTI in children. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i1.21369 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 January; 43 (1): 9-12
Osteogenesis imperfecta: a case report
Authors: Rahman Ratu Rumana Binte , Begum Shamasunnahar
Published: December 2014

Osteogenesis Imperfecta is a inherited disease of connective tissue. Its hallmark feature is bone fragility with a tendency to fracture from minimal trauma or from the work of bearing weight against gravity. The disorder may occur in one out of 20,000 to one out of 60,000 live births, affecting both male and female of all races. We present a 38 year lady who gave birth to baby with osteogenesis imperfecta in Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Dhaka. Both lower limbs appeared shortened with thick musculo-cutaneous folds. Both the femoral shafts were shortened, deformed and fragmented. Both the humeral and fibular shafts were deformed and the presentation was breech. Her sclerae was blue. X-ray showed multiple fractures in humerus, femur and ribs and also right sided pulmonary hypoplasia. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i1.21376 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 January; 43 (1): 30-32
Bilateral simultaneous central retinal vein occlusion secondary to trauma
Authors: Debnath Purabi Rani , Bhowmik Narayon Chandra , Debnath Dilip Kumar , Sarker Sujit Kumar
Published: December 2014

Retinal vein occlusion refers to the closure of the central retinal vein that drains the retina or to that of one of its branches. Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is caused by age related changes in the retinal vessels. Bilateral CRVO is a relatively rare event. Only less than 10% cases are bilateral, simultaneous bilateral CRVO is very rare. We are presenting a case report regarding a middle aged patient with history of trauma who presented with bilateral CRVO in the depatment of ophthalmology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka. After detailed clinical work up and invesigation a diagnosis of bilateral CRVO secondary to trauma was made. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i1.21377 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 January; 43 (1): 33-35
Suicide by hanging : a study of 334 cases
Authors: Ali Eleza , Maksud Md , Zubyra SJ , Hossain Md Sorowar , Debnath Purobi Rani , Alam Afroza , Chakrabarty PK
Published: December 2014

Global suicide rates have increased 60% in the past 45 years. Its incidence is also high in Bangladesh and the mode of suicide is hanging in majority of cases. This study summarizes the post mortem examinations on 334 cases of suicide by hanging during 2010 to 2012 in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka. The focus was on its epidemiology in Bangladesh and to identify factors that contributed to suicide. Among the 334 cases, 69.2% were male and 56.0% were married. Most (62.3%) were between 20 to 40 years. Most of the victims were from middle socioeconomic group. Regarding motive for committing the suicide by hanging, family disputes were most common motive (38.9%) in male and in female the most common motive was harassment particularly in married women (23.1%). The high incidence of suicidal hanging among young adults imposes a huge socioeconomic burden on our society. Private nature of hanging and easy availability of ligature materials and ligature points makes prevention of suicide by hanging a difficult task. Social, legal and psychiatric interventions are required to prevent suicide. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i2.21390 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 May; 43 (2): 90-93
Characterization of acid burn victims in two selected health facilities in Dhaka city
Authors: Islam Md Jahidul , Uddin MM Jalal , Hossain Md Shahadat , Amin Md Ruhul , Khandaker Md Nuruzzaman , Rahman AZM Mahfuzur , Taher Abu
Published: December 2014

This descriptive cross sectional study was carried out in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) and Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF), Dhaka from January to June 2010 among the acid burn patients admitted in DMCH and acid burn victims taking services from ASF to find out the socio-demographic characteristics, physical extent of injury, and to identify the reasons behind acid burn in selected institution in Dhaka city. A total of 112 samples were taken purposively and data were collected by face to face interview. Among the respondents most were female (58.04%). Mean age was 20.3 years and most came from rural and semi-urban areas (91.82%)l. Most of the incident occurred at the mid-night and at the time of sleeping (69.09%). 23% of the respondents lost their partial or full eye sight or hearing or both. Post burn complications developed in old burn patients 75.8%. Most of the victims (83%) faced various type of problems. Among the respondents, 65.2% suffered from superficial burn, 31.2% from mixed burn and 3.6% from deep burn. About 15.2% suffered from > 20% of total Body Surface (TBSA) burn. The main cause of acid burn was intentional (98.2%). Only 1.8% was accidental. In the female the intentional causes were presence at the site (21.9%), marriage proposal rejection (15.6%). In case of male the main causes were personal enmity (30.4%), presence at the site (28.3%). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i2.21391 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 May; 43 (2): 94-99
Current status of typhoid fever : a review
Authors: Chowdhury MA Jalil , Shumy Farzana , Anam Ahmad Mursel , Chowdhury Mostofa Kamal
Published: December 2014

Abstract not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i2.21394 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 May; 43 (2): 106-111
Geriatric population and relevant contemplation
Authors: Khan AKM Hafiz Uddin
Published: December 2014

The number of geriatric population, both in absolute value and as a proportion of the population has been rising since 1900. Currently 10% of world population is over 60 years, which is expected to increase to 20% by the year 2030. Life expectancy has been increasing for the population as a whole. Bangladesh is currently undergoing a demographic transition and the projection of the population ?60 years is rapidly increasing. Bangladeshs elderly population is one of the largest in the world in terms of absolute number. This change in population characteristics will have serious consequences on the society as well as on overall socio-economic development of the any country. In old age, high prevalence of morbidity is a common feature and health care expenditure for the elderly persons is much higher compared to the younger adult. There is a striking increase in the life expectancy and geriatric population is increasing day by day. On the othewr hand morbidity and mortality also increase with age. So, it is essential to know adequate information regarding geriatric population with their common health problems along with appropriate health care & preventive measures for the better quality of their health DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v43i2.21395 Bangladesh Med J. 2014 May; 43 (2): 112-117
Synthesis and Molecular Structure of 2-(Diphenylphosphano)phenyl Benzoate Borane Adduct
Authors: Mamat Constantin , Köckerling Martin
Published: December 2014

The crystal and molecular structure of 2-(diphenylphosphano)phenyl benzoate borane adduct are reported. The title compound crystallizes from a petroleum ether/ethyl acetate mixture in the triclinic space group P with two molecules in the unit cell. The unit cell parameters are: a = 8.67(1) Å, b = 9.202(1) Å, c = 14.224(2) Å; α = 72.600(7)°, β = 73.577(7)°, γ = 84.349(7)° and V = 1039.5(2) Å3. Bond lengths and angles are typical for this phosphane borane adduct.
Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease in Brazilian Children and Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Cardoso Andreia , Gomes Lays , Silva Clara , Soares Renata , De Abreu Mauro , Padilha Wilton , Cavalcanti Alessandro
Published: December 2014

The aim of the present study was determine the prevalence and factors associated with dental caries and periodontal disease in Brazilian children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). This is a cross-sectional study conducted with 80 patients ranging in age from 2 to 18 years old. Oral exams were conducted by an examiner with records of DMFT, dmft, Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI) and Community Periodontal Index (CPI). The statistical analysis used Poisson Regression with robust variance estimation (α = 0.05). The prevalence of dental caries was 59.3%, with DMFT and mean dmft of 1.71 ± 2.42 and 2.22 ± 3.23, respectively. The mean GBI was 22.44%, and in the CPI, the prevalence of gingival bleeding, calculus, shallow and deep pockets were 94.73%, 79.62%, 12.90% and 3.22%, respectively. The caregiver’s educational level of less than eight years were associated with the dental caries experience (PR = 1.439; 95%CI = 1.09–1.89). The periodontal alterations were associated with female sex (PR = 0.82; 95%CI = 0.69–0.97), caregiver’s educational level of less than eight years (PR = 1.15; 95%CI = 1.03–1.29), poor oral perception (PR = 0.89; 95%CI = 0.80–0.98), serious communication problem (PR = 0.87; 95%CI = 0.76–0.99) and athetoid type of CP (PR = 0.85; 95%CI = 0.75–0.97). The patients with CP presented high dental caries experience and periodontal alterations, which were associated with their demographic, socioeconomic, oral health perception and systemic information.
Geospatial Technology: A Tool to Aid in the Elimination of Malaria in Bangladesh
Authors: Kirk Karen , Haq M. , Alam Mohammad , Haque Ubydul
Published: December 2014

Bangladesh is a malaria endemic country. There are 13 districts in the country bordering India and Myanmar that are at risk of malaria. The majority of malaria morbidity and mortality cases are in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the mountainous southeastern region of Bangladesh. In recent years, malaria burden has declined in the country. In this study, we reviewed and summarized published data (through 2014) on the use of geospatial technologies on malaria epidemiology in Bangladesh and outlined potential contributions of geospatial technologies for eliminating malaria in the country. We completed a literature review using “malaria, Bangladesh” search terms and found 218 articles published in peer-reviewed journals listed in PubMed. After a detailed review, 201 articles were excluded because they did not meet our inclusion criteria, 17 articles were selected for final evaluation. Published studies indicated geospatial technologies tools (Geographic Information System, Global Positioning System, and Remote Sensing) were used to determine vector-breeding sites, land cover classification, accessibility to health facility, treatment seeking behaviors, and risk mapping at the household, regional, and national levels in Bangladesh. To achieve the goal of malaria elimination in Bangladesh, we concluded that further research using geospatial technologies should be integrated into the country’s ongoing surveillance system to identify and better assess progress towards malaria elimination.
The Effects of Endogenous Non-Peptide Molecule Isatin and Hydrogen Peroxide on Proteomic Profiling of Rat Brain Amyloid-β Binding Proteins: Relevance to Alzheimer’s Disease?
Authors: Medvedev Alexei , Buneeva Olga , Kopylov Arthur , Gnedenko Oksana , Medvedeva Marina , Kozin Sergey , Ivanov Alexis , Zgoda Victor , Makarov Alexander
Published: December 2014

The amyloid-β peptide is considered as a key player in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although good evidence exists that amyloid-β accumulates inside cells, intracellular brain amyloid-binding proteins remain poorly characterized. Proteomic profiling of rat brain homogenates, performed in this study, resulted in identification of 89 individual intracellular amyloid-binding proteins, and approximately 25% of them were proteins that we had previously identified as specifically binding to isatin, an endogenous neuroprotector molecule. A significant proportion of the amyloid-binding proteins (more than 30%) are differentially expressed or altered/oxidatively modified in AD patients. Incubation of brain homogenates with 70 µM hydrogen peroxide significantly influenced the profile of amyloid-β binding proteins and 0.1 mM isatin decreased the number of identified amyloid-β binding proteins both in control and hydrogen peroxide treated brain homogenates. The effects of hydrogen peroxide and isatin have been confirmed in optical biosensor experiments with purified glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, one of the known crucial amyloid-β binding proteins (also identified in this study). Data obtained suggest that isatin protects crucial intracellular protein targets against amyloid binding, and possibly favors intracellular degradation of this protein via preventing formation of amyloid-β oligomers described in the literature for some isatin derivatives.
Cyclodextrin-Complexed Ocimum basilicum Leaves Essential Oil Increases Fos Protein Expression in the Central Nervous System and Produce an Antihyperalgesic Effect in Animal Models for Fibromyalgia
Authors: Nascimento Simone , Araújo Adriano , Brito Renan , Serafini Mairim , Menezes Paula , DeSantana Josimari , Júnior Waldecy , Alves Pericles , Blank Arie , Oliveira Rita , Oliveira Aldeidia , Albuquerque-Júnior Ricardo , Almeida Jackson , Quintans-Júnior Lucindo
Published: December 2014

O. basilicum leaves produce essential oils (LEO) rich in monoterpenes. The short half-life and water insolubility are limitations for LEO medical uses. β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) has been employed to improve the pharmacological properties of LEO. We assessed the antihyperalgesic profile of LEO, isolated or complexed in β-CD (LEO/β-CD), on an animal model for fibromyalgia. Behavioral tests: mice were treated every day with either LEO/β-CD (25, 50 or 100 mg/kg, p.o.), LEO (25 mg/kg, p.o.), tramadol (TRM 4 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle (saline), and 60 min after treatment behavioral parameters were assessed. Therefore, mice were evaluated for mechanical hyperalgesia (von Frey), motor coordination (Rota-rod) and muscle strength (Grip Strength Metter) in a mice fibromyalgia model. After 27 days, we evaluated the central nervous system (CNS) pathways involved in the effect induced by experimental drugs through immunofluorescence protocol to Fos protein. The differential scanning analysis (DSC), thermogravimetry/derivate thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) and infrared absorption spectroscopy (FTIR) curves indicated that the products prepared were able to incorporate the LEO efficiently. Oral treatment with LEO or LEO-βCD, at all doses tested, produced a significant reduction of mechanical hyperalgesia and we were able to significantly increase Fos protein expression. Together, our results provide evidence that LEO, isolated or complexed with β-CD, produces analgesic effects on chronic non-inflammatory pain as fibromyalgia.
Accelerating in Situ Endothelialisation of Cardiovascular Bypass Grafts
Authors: Goh Ee , Wong Eleanor , Farhatnia Yasmin , Tan Aaron , Seifalian Alexander
Published: December 2014

The patency of synthetic cardiovascular grafts in the long run is synonymous with their ability to inhibit the processes of intimal hyperplasia, thrombosis and calcification. In the human body, the endothelium of blood vessels exhibits characteristics that inhibit such processes. As such it is not surprising that research in tissue engineering is directed towards replicating the functionality of the natural endothelium in cardiovascular grafts. This can be done either by seeding the endothelium within the lumen of the grafts prior to implantation or by designing the graft such that in situ endothelialisation takes place after implantation. Due to certain difficulties identified with in vitro endothelialisation, in situ endothelialisation, which will be the focus of this article, has garnered interest in the last years. To promote in situ endothelialisation, the following aspects can be taken into account: (1) Endothelial progenital cell mobilization, adhesion and proliferation; (2) Regulating differentiation of progenitor cells to mature endothelium; (3) Preventing thrombogenesis and inflammation during endothelialisation. This article aims to review and compile recent developments to promote the in situ endothelialisation of cardiovascular grafts and subsequently improve their patency, which can also have widespread implications in the field of tissue engineering.
Pathogenesis of Target Organ Damage in Hypertension: Role of Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress
Authors: Rubattu Speranza , Pagliaro Beniamino , Pierelli Giorgia , Santolamazza Caterina , Di Castro Sara , Mennuni Silvia , Volpe Massimo
Published: December 2014

Hypertension causes target organ damage (TOD) that involves vasculature, heart, brain and kidneys. Complex biochemical, hormonal and hemodynamic mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of TOD. Common to all these processes is an increased bioavailability of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Both in vitro and in vivo studies explored the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress as a mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of TOD in hypertension, especially focusing on atherosclerosis, heart disease, renal failure, cerebrovascular disease. Both dysfunction of mitochondrial proteins, such as uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), superoxide dismutase (SOD) 2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1-α (PGC-1α), calcium channels, and the interaction between mitochondria and other sources of ROS, such as NADPH oxidase, play an important role in the development of endothelial dysfunction, cardiac hypertrophy, renal and cerebral damage in hypertension. Commonly used anti-hypertensive drugs have shown protective effects against mitochondrial-dependent oxidative stress. Notably, few mitochondrial proteins can be considered therapeutic targets on their own. In fact, antioxidant therapies specifically targeted at mitochondria represent promising strategies to reduce mitochondrial dysfunction and related hypertensive TOD. In the present article, we discuss the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress as a contributing factor to hypertensive TOD development. We also provide an overview of mitochondria-based treatment strategies that may reveal useful to prevent TOD and reduce its progression.
Cytokine-Modulating Strategies and Newer Cytokine Targets for Arthritis Therapy
Authors: Venkatesha Shivaprasad , Dudics Steven , Acharya Bodhraj , Moudgil Kamal
Published: December 2014

Cytokines are the key mediators of inflammation in the course of autoimmune arthritis and other immune-mediated diseases. Uncontrolled production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-17 can promote autoimmune pathology, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines including IL-4, IL-10, and IL-27 can help control inflammation and tissue damage. The pro-inflammatory cytokines are the prime targets of the strategies to control rheumatoid arthritis (RA). For example, the neutralization of TNFα, either by engineered anti-cytokine antibodies or by soluble cytokine receptors as decoys, has proven successful in the treatment of RA. The activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines can also be downregulated either by using specific siRNA to inhibit the expression of a particular cytokine or by using small molecule inhibitors of cytokine signaling. Furthermore, the use of anti-inflammatory cytokines or cytokine antagonists delivered via gene therapy has proven to be an effective approach to regulate autoimmunity. Unexpectedly, under certain conditions, TNFα, IFN-γ, and few other cytokines can display anti-inflammatory activities. Increasing awareness of this phenomenon might help develop appropriate regimens to harness or avoid this effect. Furthermore, the relatively newer cytokines such as IL-32, IL-34 and IL-35 are being investigated for their potential role in the pathogenesis and treatment of arthritis.
Implications of Hyponatremia in Liver Transplantation
Authors: Cimen Sertac , Guler Sanem , Ayloo Subhashini , Molinari Michele
Published: December 2014

Although there are a limited number of quality studies, appropriate peri-operative management of serum electrolytes seems to reduce adverse outcomes in liver transplantation. Hyponatremia is defined as the presence of serum concentration of sodium equal ≤130 mmol/L and it is detected in approximately 20% of patients with end stage liver disease waiting for a liver transplant (LT). This paper will focus on the pathogenesis of dilutional hyponatremia and its significance in terms of both candidacy for LT and post-operative outcomes.
Chemical Profiling (HPLC-NMR & HPLC-MS), Isolation, and Identification of Bioactive Meroditerpenoids from the Southern Australian Marine Brown Alga Sargassum paradoxum
Authors: Brkljača Robert , Urban Sylvia
Published: December 2014

A phytochemical investigation of a southern Australian marine brown alga, Sargassum paradoxum, resulted in the isolation and identification of four new (5, 9, 10, and 15) and nine previously reported (1, 2, 6–8, and 11–14) bioactive meroditerpenoids. HPLC-NMR and HPLC-MS were central to the identification of a new unstable compound, sargahydroquinal (9), and pivotal in the deconvolution of eight (1, 2, 5–7, and 10–12) other meroditerpenoids. In particular, the complete characterization and identification of the two main constituents (1 and 2) in the crude dichloromethane extract was achieved using stop-flow HPLC-NMR and HPLC-MS. This study resulted in the first acquisition of gHMBCAD NMR spectra in the stop-flow HPLC-NMR mode for a system solely equipped with a 60 μL HPLC-NMR flow cell without the use of a cold probe, microcoil, or any pre-concentration.
Sub-Micrometer Size Structure Fabrication Using a Conductive Polymer
Authors: Sone Junji , Yamada Katsumi , Asami Akihisa , Chen Jun
Published: December 2014

Stereolithography that uses a femtosecond laser was employed as a method for multiphoton-sensitized polymerization. We studied the stereolithography method, which produces duplicate solid shapes corresponding to the trajectory of the laser focus point and can be used to build a three-dimensional (3D) structure using a conductive polymer. To achieve this, we first considered a suitable polymerization condition for line stereolithography. However, this introduced a problem of irregular polymerization. To overcome this, we constructed a support in the polymerized part using a protein material. This method can stabilize polymerization, but it is not suited for building 3D shapes. Therefore, we considered whether heat accumulation causes the irregular polymerization; consequently, the reduction method of the repetition rate of the femtosecond laser was used to reduce the heating process. This method enabled stabilization and building of a 3D shape using photo-polymerization of a conductive polymer.
New Coumarin Derivative as an Eco-Friendly Inhibitor of Corrosion of Mild Steel in Acid Medium
Authors: Al-Amiery Ahmed , Al-Majedy Yasameen , Kadhum Abdul , Mohamad Abu
Published: December 2014

The anticorrosion ability of a synthesized coumarin, namely 2-(coumarin-4-yloxy)acetohydrazide (EFCI), for mild steel (MS) in 1 M hydrochloric acid solution has been studied using a weight loss method. The effect of temperature on the corrosion rate was investigated, and some thermodynamic parameters were calculated. The results indicated that inhibition efficiencies were enhanced with an increase in concentration of inhibitor and decreased with a rise in temperature. The IE value reaches 94.7% at the highest used concentration of the new eco-friendly inhibitor. The adsorption of inhibitor on MS surface was found to obey a Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed on inhibited and uninhibited mild steel samples to characterize the surface. The Density Function theory (DFT) was employed for quantum-chemical calculations such as EHOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital energy), ELUMO (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy) and μ (dipole moment), and the obtained results were found to be consistent with the experimental findings. The synthesized inhibitor was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic studies.