bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Life and abusing life in the trial of Ahmed Naji
Authors: Gibbons Alison
Published: August 2019

This article undertakes a cognitive stylistic investigation of the trial of Egyptian writer Ahmed Naji, who was prosecuted - and subsequently imprisoned - for ‘disturbing public morals’ by depicting sexual content in his novel Istikhdam al-Hayat [Using Life] (2014). The article presents a schematic model of the narrative roles, across narrative levels and text-world ontologies, mind-modelled by readers in literary experiences. This model forms the foundation of the analysis which is consequently able to map the interrelationships between the roles on enunciation and reception and to account for the complex array of ethical positions - relative to each narrative role - taken up by readers. The article offers a nuanced account of the ethics of reading which, by pioneering the application of stylistics to explore an Arabic cultural context, can also capture cultural difference. Ultimately, through situated analysis, this article uncovers the ideological forces involved in Ahmed Naji's trial and the disciminatory practices therein.
Interview with Sara Mills
Authors: van der Bom Isabelle
Published: August 2019

Editor of the Journal of Language and Discrimination, Dr Isabelle van der Bom, in conversation with Sara Mills, Emeritus Professor in Linguistics at Sheffield Hallam University. Professor Sara Mills’ research has mainly focused on gender and feminism and politeness.
Native-speakerism and ‘hidden curricula’ in ELT training
Authors: Lowe Robert J. , Lawrence Luke
Published: August 2019

Issues surrounding native-speakerism in ELT have been investigated from a diverse range of research perspectives over the last decade. This study uses a duoethnographic approach in order to explore the concept of a ‘hidden curriculum’ that instils and perpetuates Western ‘native speaker’ norms and values in the formal and informal training of English language teachers. We found that, despite differences in our own individual training experiences, a form of ‘hidden curriculum’ was apparent that had a powerful effect on our initial beliefs and practices as teachers and continues to influence our day-to-day teaching.
Taken for Granted: The Remarkable Power of the Unremarkable. By E. Zerubavel
Authors: Mills Sara L.
Published: August 2019

Taken for Granted: The Remarkable Power of the Unremarkable By E. Zerubavel (2018) Princeton and Oxford: Princeton University Press, 142pp.
Linguistic prejudice and discrimination in Brazilian Portuguese and beyond
Authors: O'Neill Paul , Massini-Cagliari Gladis
Published: August 2019

In this article we make a distinction between the prejudice and discrimination towards (a) different languages and their speakers and (b) different non-standard varieties of the same language and their speakers, and argue that while the discrimination and prejudice towards (a) have been denounced by international institutions and both national and international laws are in place to guarantee the rights of speakers of different languages, the same protection has not been afforded to speakers of non-standard varieties of a language. We examine a specific case of this type of linguistic prejudice in Brazil. We discuss the effectiveness of efforts of linguists to combat linguistic prejudice based on the principle of error correction (Labov 1982) and, drawing on work by Cameron (2012) and Bourdieu (1986), suggest that linguistic prejudice cannot be disentangled from other types of prejudice and that linguists need to have a much deeper understanding of and engagement with the values attached to linguistic forms. We conclude with a number of suggestions and recommendations in order to effectively combat linguistic prejudice.
Islamophobia: The Ideological Campaign Against Muslims. By S. Sheehi
Authors: Haider Sharif
Published: August 2019

Islamophobia: The Ideological Campaign Against Muslims

By S. Sheehi (2011)

Atlanta, Georgia: Clarity Press, 291pp.
Interview with Nike Oruh conducted by Laura L Paterson, October 2018
Authors: Paterson Laura L.
Published: August 2019

Mr Nike Oruh is a therapeutic lead for a young people's charity in Edinburgh. His role focuses on aiming to increase young people's knowledge and awareness of emotional, sexual and physical health issues, enabling them to make informed choices about the way they live and relate to others. He is also a musician, performing under the name Profisee, as well as an active blogger. I met Nike at a public-facing event entitled ‘Critical Discourse and Resistance: How Language Promotes Inequality’, which was organised by the University of Edinburgh. During this event, Nike spoke about the important role that language plays in his work with young people. After the event, I caught up with Nike to ask him some more questions about his experiences.
The Language of Hate: A Corpus Linguistic Analysis of White Supremacist Language, by A. Brindle
Authors: Ras Ilse
Published: August 2019

The Language of Hate: A Corpus Linguistic Analysis of White Supremacist Language

By A. Brindle (2016)

Abingdon: Routledge, 236pp.
Gender, Power and Political Speech: Women and Language in the 2015 UK General Election, by D. Cameron and S. Shaw
Authors: Yoong Melissa
Published: August 2019

Gender, Power and Political Speech: Women and Language in the 2015 UK General Election

By D. Cameron and S. Shaw (2016)

London: Palgrave Macmillan, 152pp.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 may be a prognostic biomarker in IDH1/2 wild-type primary glioblastomas
Authors: Argadal Omer Gokay , Mutlu Melis , Ak Aksoy Secil , Kocaeli Hasan , Tunca Berrin , Civan Muhammet Nafi , Egeli Unal , Cecener Gulsah , Bekar Ahmet , Taskapilioglu Mevlut Ozgur , Tekin Cagla , Tezcan Gulcin , Tolunay Sahsine
Published: August 2019

Primary glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive type of brain tumors. While mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) genes are frequent in secondary GBs and correlate with a better prognosis, most primary GBs are IDH wild-type. Recent studies have shown that the long noncoding RNA metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript-1 (MALAT1) is associated with aggressive tumor phenotypes in different cancers. Our aim was to clarify the prognostic significance of MALAT1 in IDH1/2 wild-type primary GB tumors. We analyzed IDH1/2 mutation status in 75 patients with primary GB by DNA sequencing. The expression of MALAT1 was detected in the 75 primary GB tissues and 5 normal brain tissues using reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The associations between MALAT1 expression, IDH1/2 mutation status, and clinicopathological variables of patients were determined. IDH1 (R132H) mutation was observed in 5/75 primary GBs. IDH2 (R172H) mutation was not detected in any of our cases. MALAT1 expression was significantly upregulated in primary GB vs. normal brain tissues (p = 0.025). Increased MALAT1 expression in IDH1/2 wild-type primary GBs correlated with patient age and tumor localization (p = 0.032 and p = 0.025, respectively). A multivariate analysis showed that high MALAT1 expression was an unfavorable prognostic factor for overall survival (p = 0.034) in IDH1/2 wild-type primary GBs. High MALAT1 expression may have a prognostic role in primary GBs independent of IDH mutations.
Biochemical Measures of Neuropathy - Glutathione Assay (GSH) v1
Authors: Feldman Eva
Published: August 2019

Summary: Oxidative stress is highly correlated with the metabolic changes caused by hyperglycemia. Increased levels of glucose overload mitochondria and result in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, the flow of excess glucose through cellular pathways decreases the cell’s normal ability to detoxify ROS. As a result, the neurons and axons of the peripheral nervous system contain increased levels of ROS and decreased antioxidant capacity. The following assays are used to measure these changes in rodent models of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic Complication:
SPARC - Acute surgery and experimentation of the gastrointestinal tract and vagus nerve in the ferret v1
Authors: C Horn Charles , M. Miller Derek , Fulton Stephanie , J. Yates Bill , E. Fisher Lee , C. Nanivadekar Ameya
Published: August 2019

This protocol is used for acute surgery and electrophysiological experimentation on the anesthetized ferret, specifically for manipulating the vagus nerve and gastrointestinal tract nerve stimulation and myoelectric recording. Funding: This protocol was developed with funding from the NIH Common Fund’s Stimulating Peripheral Activity to Relieve Conditions (SPARC) program (Award U18TR002205). To learn more about the SPARC program, visit https://sparc.science.
DNA extraction for HMW DNA v1
Authors: Solonenko Natalie , Burris Marie
Published: August 2019

This protocol is intended for extraction of HMW DNA from bacterial or viral samples.
SPARC - Chronic implantation of gastrointestinal and vagus nerve electrodes in the ferret v1
Authors: C Horn Charles , M. Miller Derek , Fulton Stephanie , J. Yates Bill , E. Fisher Lee , C. Nanivadekar Ameya
Published: August 2019

This protocol is used to surgically implant gastrointestinal planar electrodes and vagus nerve cuff electrodes for chronic electrophysiological recording and stimulaiton in the ferret. Electrode lead wiring is tunneled subcutaneously to a connector embedded in a headcap affixed to the cranium. Funding: This protocol was developed with funding from the NIH Common Fund’s Stimulating Peripheral Activity to Relieve Conditions (SPARC) program (Award U18TR002205). To learn more about the SPARC program, visit https://sparc.science.
Screening for gestational diabetes mellitus by two step method and the pregnancy outcome: a study in Indian women
Authors: Srinivasan Suguna , Palanisamy Vijayalakshmi
Published: August 2019

Background: In recent times, gestational diabetes is becoming more common Worldwide and complications are seen in fetal development, growth, labour and delivery due to maternal hyperglycemia. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus(GDM) is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Among South Asian Population, Indian Women are at high risk of developing carbohydrate intolerance during pregnancy. Hence this study is undertaken to screen for gestational diabetes mellitus by two step method in Indian Women.Methods: This study was done in 153 nondiabetic pregnant women of gestational age 24-28 weeks, excluding diabetes mellitus diagnosed prior to pregnancy. Two step method was followed in the present study and GDM was diagnosed and the pregnancy outcomes were noted.Results: In our study the prevalence of GDM is 8.1% by two step method. Most of the women diagnosed with GDM were of age 26-30 yrs (41.66%). Among the women who were diagnosed as GDM, (58.33%) cases required Insulin along with diet control. In our study 33.33% had vaginal delivery, 8.33% had Emergency LSCS and 58.33% had Elective LSCS.Conclusion: Indian Women have high prevalence of GDM, hence universal screening is essential to diagnose GDM, which will improve the pregnancy outcome.
Screening for gestational diabetes mellitus by two step method and the neonatal outcome
Authors: Srinivasan Suguna , Palanisamy Vijayalakshmi
Published: August 2019

Background: As Indian women has increased risk of developing GDM, screening for GDM is essential for early diagnosis and treatment and hence to reduce the adverse neonatal outcomes.Methods: The antenatal women are screened for GDM by administering 50g GCT and the screening test value of >130mg/dl measured at 1 hours were considered screening test positive and subjected to standard 2 hour 75gm OGTT and the neonatal outcome were observed in relation to neonatal birth weight, Apgar, and the occurrence of complications like hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, hyperbilirubenemia.Results: The average neonatal birth weight in the study population was 3kg. The women with GDM who required diet alone had average neonatal birth weight of 2.9kgs and the GDM women who were on diet and insulin therapy had average neonatal birth weight of 3.4kg. There was increased incidence of hyperbilirubinemia 33.3% .There was only 1 preterm birth.Conclusions: There is association with neonatal Complications like hyperbilirubenemia and hypoglycemia with women who had screening positive for GDM.
Laparoscopic cervicopexy in uterine prolapse, a prospective study
Authors: Aliyar Anu , Palakkan Saphina , Vahab Abdul , P. Mumtaz
Published: August 2019

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition and a major cause of gynecological surgery. The lifetime risk of having an operation for prolapse may be 11%. Uterine conserving surgeries using synthetic mesh, especially in younger age group can restore normal anatomy relieving their pelvic symptoms. To evaluate the safety, intra operative and postoperative complications and efficacy of the laparoscopic cervicopexy.Methods: This Prospective observational study was carried out on women aged below 45 years attending gynaecology outpatient department with uterine prolapse at MES Medical College, Perinthalmanna between January 1st and December 31st, 2015. 39 women underwent laparoscopic cervicopexy and follow up assessments was done among them at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Results: The mean operative time was 27.6 minutes and blood loss was 0.4 gm/dl. No intraoperative and postoperative complications occurred. Short duration of hospital stay with mean of 1.4 days. 7.7% patients and 5.5% had mersilene tape reaction at 3 months and 6 months. The POP Q score C was significantly away from hymen at 2 weeks,3 months and 6 months (+4.4 - -4.3). 7.7% and 2.6% had recurrence at 3 month and 6 months. 5.1% underwent vaginal hysterectomy to get relieved from symptom.Conclusion: Laparoscopic cervicopexy is an effective option for women with pelvic organ prolapse who desire uterine preservation.
Study on maternal and foetal outcome of pregnancy with positive glucose tolerance test by diabetes in pregnancy study group diagnostic criteria
Authors: Lakshmi Satyavathi G. Anantha , A. Chitti Sudha
Published: August 2019

Background: Diabetes in Pregnancy Study group, India (DIPSI) diagnostic criteria is a single step method of screening and diagnosis of gestational Diabetes. Therefore, this prospective study was undertaken to ascertain the validity of DIPSI criteria to diagnose GDM based on pregnancy outcome in Indian population.Method: The present Hospital based prospective study was conducted at OBGY department, GSL Medical College and General Hospital, Rajahmundry during 2013 to 2015. Women who were attending OBGY OPD for Antenatal check-ups within 24-28 weeks of GA during the study period were included in the study. Each mother at 24-28 weeks of gestation irrespective of last meal timing, fasting / non fasting was given 75 gm glucose dissolved in a glass of 200 ml water to drink and after two hours venous blood was collected.Result: Out of 500 cases, 26 cases are diagnosed as having gestational diabetes by DIPSI criteria and 474 cases are Normal glucose tolerant. Maximum number 53.9% of cases diagnosed as GDM by DIPSI are of age >25 yrs (53.9%), primigravida (65.7%), BMI>25 (57.7%). In present study, family h/o diabetes is a risk factor for GDMConclusion: Our results suggest that a policy of universal screening for GDM should be adopted in all antenatal clinics and 75 gm OGTT has a high predictive value. This single step procedure is a simple economic and feasible method. It serves both for the purpose of screening and diagnosis at the same time.
An analysis of tubal ectopic pregnancy in a rural tertiary care hospital in India: a retrospective study
Authors: Galidevara Chandana , C. Swaramya
Published: August 2019

Background: The objective of this study was to analyse distribution of predisposing risk factors for ectopic pregnancy and to study the various modalities of management instituted along with surgical characteristics.Methods: This is a retrospective data analysis of tubal ectopic pregnancies (EP) managed in a tertiary rural referral centre over three years.Results: A total of 160 women were managed for tubal EP. Majority of the women belonged to the age group of 21-30 years (73%). Multigravidae constituted 71.3% of the women and overall, 90.6% women conceived spontaneously. History of ovulation induction was present in 3.7% of women, IUI in 1.2% and IVF in 4.4%. Risk factors encountered in the study include previous EP (9.4%), history of tubal sterilisation (6.9%), caesarean section (13.1%), PID (7.5%), miscarriage (25%), tubal recanalization (3.7%). Conservative management was instituted in 16.8%. Amongst the women managed surgically, 67.5% underwent laparotomy with the remaining being managed laparoscopically. Of the surgically managed patients 72.9% had ruptured EP. There was a predominance of right sided ectopic in our study (79%) and ampullary region of the fallopian tube was the most common site of tubal EP (81.2%). The most common procedure performed was total salpingectomy (56.4%). Supportive treatment with blood transfusion was required amongst 18.8% of the women who had EP. In the postoperative period, fever was noted in 13.5% of women and 2.5% needed intensive care unit admission for hemodynamic stabilisation. The incidence of wound discharge was 12% of women who underwent surgery.Conclusions: This study underpins the importance of early diagnosis, appropriate clinical managementwith timely intervention to improve outcomes associated with EP and to prevent severe morbidity and mortality.
Maternal mortality and its causes in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Doke Goter , Kamda Jyoti
Published: August 2019

Background: Maternal mortality is defined as the death of a woman while being pregnant or within 42 completed days of termination of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to study the maternal mortality and analyze the complications leading to maternal deaths.Methods: A retrospective study of hospital records and death summaries of all maternal deaths over the period of two year from April 2017 to March 2019 was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Science, a tertiary level healthcare referral center in  Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh, India.Results: There was a total of 6 maternal deaths out of 6311 live births giving maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 95.07 per 1,00,000 live births. The majority of deaths were reported in the age groups 30-40 years (66.66%). More deaths were reported in multiparous women (83.33%) as compared to primiparous women (16.66%). Most of them were unbooked cases (66.66%). Haemorrhage (33.33) and pregnancy induced hypertension (33.33%) were the major direct cause of maternal deaths.Conclusions: Haemorrhage and pregnancy induced hypertension were found to be major cause of maternal deaths. In our study, there was no maternal death from anemia and other medical disorder.
Stress and emotion regulation in resident doctors at a tertiary care hospital of North India
Authors: Singh Chitvan , Singh Udeyana , Soni Anshu , Verma Rohit
Published: August 2019

Background: The stress of medical training stems from academic pressure, exhausting work hours and striving for perfectionist standards. The demanding nature also requires involvement with emotionally draining aspects of life (human suffering, death, sexuality and fear). This may impair quality of life of medical students and influence patient care. As a consequence, post graduate medical students can experience an alarming amount of stress-associated anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and even suicide. Chronic stress is also known to influence memory, learning and especially problem-solving abilities which require flexible thinking. The study was carried out to evaluate the relationship of stress to cognitive reappraisal and emotion suppression in post graduate medical students. Methods: 150 post graduate medical students participated in the study. Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and Professional Life Stress Questionnaire were administered on each participant. Data collected was kept confidential. Results were tabulated and statistically analysed.Results: Out of 150 participants, 85 (56.67%) experienced stress. 65 (43.33%) participants had stress in the moderate range, 20 (13.33%) participants had stress in the problematic area for whom remedial action was required. 52% showed high cognitive reappraisal, while 54% showed emotional suppression.Conclusions: The correlation between stress, cognitive reappraisal and between stress, emotion suppression showed weak strengths.
The role of motor nerve conduction: in cervical radiculopathy patients
Authors: Garg Meenakshi , Gupta Saurabh , Sood Sushma , Singh Mohita
Published: August 2019

Background: Cervical radiculopathy is the clinical description of when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes inflamed or damaged, resulting in a change in neurological function. Neurological deficits, such as numbness, altered reflexes, or weakness, may radiate from the neck into the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers. Patient also complains of tingling, numbness or loss of sensation along with the nerve root dermatome. It is a substantial cause of disability and morbidity, and its cost-effective evaluation and treatment are crucial so there is a definite need to establish a cost effective, reliable, and accurate means for establishing the diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy. Electrodiagnostic tests are the closest to fulfil these criteria out of which nerve conduction tests are one of the electrodiagnostic test.Methods: In this study motor nerve conduction of ulnar and median nerve done in 30 clinically proven cervical radiculopathy patientsResults: There are significant decrease in the conduction velocity of both nerve (median nerve (51.60±7.5), Ulnar nerve (50.60±5.6)) and significantly increased in the mean latency of both nerve (median nerve (6.02±2.4), ulnar nerve (5.8±1.8)).Conclusions: Authors concluded that MNC is the specific test for the diagnosis of cervical radiculopathy. At least the MNC of both nerves included in diagnostic criteria of cervical radiculopathy.
Evaluation of preoperative predictive factors for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Elgammal Ahmed S. , Elmeligi Mohamed H. , Koura Mostafa M. Abo
Published: August 2019

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for symptomatic cholelithiasis. However, of all Laparoscopic cholecystectomies, 1-13% requires conversion to an open surgery. Thus, for surgeons it would be helpful to establish criteria that would predict difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy and conversion preoperatively. The objective of the study was to assess preoperative parameters for predicting the difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy and its conversion.Methods: Prospective study includes 100 patients having symptomatic cholelithiasis. All patients underwent elective LC in Department of General Surgery in Menoufia University Hospital and Tala General Hospital. The collected data of preoperative factors include sex, age, previous attack, history of ERCP, obstructive jaundice, obesity (BMI), lower abdominal scar, palpable gallbladder, wall thickness of, number of stones, size of stones and impacted stone. Difficulty levels according to intraoperative parameters were easy (0–5), difficult (6–10), and conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery.Results: In this study, previous history of attacks of cholecystitis (p=0.001) and wall thickness (p=0.007) were found to be statistically significant in predicting difficult LC in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Other factors such as age (p=0.002), BMI greater than 27.5 (p=0.02), palpable GB (p=0.003), impacted stone (p=0.01) were found to be statistically significant in predicting difficult LC. Factors such as sex, and abdominal scar were not statistically significant in predicting difficult LC.Conclusions: The difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy and conversion to open surgery can be predicted preoperatively based on number of previous attacks of cholecystitis, WBC count, Gall bladder wall thickness and size of stones.
Quality of life at six months after primary percutaneous coronary intervention performed at a predominantly rural population
Authors: Mujtaba Syed Fayaz , Sial Jawaid Akbar , Shaikh Sajid Ali , Naeem Muhammad , Soomro Imran , Karim Musa , Abbas Kiran , Ahmed Moiz , Hussain Kanza Abid
Published: August 2019

Background: HRQL is important in improving the quality of patient care. However, there is a paucity of data from low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC). Differences in socio-demographics and socio-cultural contexts may influence HRQOL. Therefore, this research was designed with the aim to explore the HRQOL in patients after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI).Objective: The goal of the study was to evaluate the quality of life after six months of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention using HeartQol questionnaire at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.Method: This was a Cross-sectional, descriptive study. Patients between the ages of 20-60 years who underwent primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention at least 6 months ago were inducted in the study. Coronary angiography was performed mostly through radial as preferred route. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, predisposing risk factors, procedural details, and quality of life. Heart related Quality of life was assessed using HeartQol questionnaire. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS v.21.Results: A total of 241 patients participated in the study. Mean age of the patients was 53.37±11.07 years.  On analysis of quality of life at six months, the median (IQR) HeartQol score was 31 (37-23) with majority of the patients, 84.22% (203) fall under the excellent score (>20).Conclusion: It is of enormous prognostic importance that the quality of life of patient is assessed on a regular basis after PCI. Our study shows that the majority of patients had improved quality of life at six months of PCI. Majority of patients were not bothered by mild symptoms. Further investigation needs to be done to validate these results.
Screening of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients for their macrovascular complications in tertiary care hospital
Authors: B. Ragul , K. Kiran P. , Gupta A. K.
Published: August 2019

Background: Type2 diabetes is characterized by a long asymptomatic period commonly to be diagnosed when complications appear. The risk factors associated with diabetes are age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, alcohol, obesity & others. The role of early detection and adequate treatment of diabetes and related complications patients and health services is the basis for present study.Methods: The present study was conducted at S.N. Medical College, Agra, India on 86 consecutive newly diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes. All individuals aged ≥ 20 years of age, who were not known diabetic, presenting to medicine department were included in the study for the targeted and opportunistic screening duration of January 2011 to June 2012.Results: The prevalence rates of vascular complications in this study group were analyzed statistically. The findings are the mean age was 54.27±9.27 years.  72.09% of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients were aged above 50 years. Maximum number of patients were overweight (37.20%) followed by obese (32.55%). Hypertension was present in 30.23%, prevalence of CAD was 9.30%, and none had evidence of PVD and Cerebrovascular disease.Conclusions: Macrovascular complications were present in 9.30% of asymptomatic newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients. In the study present study found that there was a significant association of these risk factors were identified and treated as early as possible to decrease the progression of vascular complications.
The clinical and laboratory profile of dengue fever in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Sujitha Katari , Dorasanamm M. , Nagabhushana M. V.
Published: August 2019

Background: Dengue fever is one of the most common acute viral illness associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Recently, there is an alarming rise of dengue in India. This study was undertaken to know the clinical profile and laboratory findings during the evolution of dengue fever.Methods: A total of 120 patients of dengue fever who were NS1 antigen or IgM dengue positive, admitted to medical wards of Narayana Medical College, Nellore included in the study. Thorough clinical examination and relevant laboratory investigations performed in all patientsResults: Males were commonly affected (72.4%). Fever was the most common presentation (100%), followed by headache (96%) myalgia (94%), abdominal pain (24.46%), and retro-orbital pain (12.45%). Malena was the most common hemorrhagic manifestation. Laboratory findings include varying degree of thrombocytopenia in all patients, leukocytopenia (30.52%), increased hematocrit (>45%) (67.59%) and deranged liver function test (58.33%)Conclusions: Early diagnosis, monitoring, and prompt supportive management can reduce mortality in dengue. Atypical presentations of dengue should be kept in mind, which may cause a delay in the diagnosis. Increased community awareness and vector control measures need to be strengthened during the peri-monsoon period to reduce the burden of dengue cases.
Assessment of factors influencing health care service utilization in rural area of Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Howlader M. , Ashfikur Rahman M. , Imtiaz Hasan Rahul M.
Published: August 2019

Background: Access to health care services is one of the important preconditions for ensuring good health that is influenced by many socio-demographic characteristics of the individual population as well as policy interventions. The main objective of this study was to identify the factors that determine healthcare service utilization in rural area of Bangladesh.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the Rangpur union of Dumuria Upazila of Khulna division in Bangladesh. Data were collected from 195 household heads administering a structured questionnaire. The study applies principal component analysis (PCA) for determining the factors that affect health care services utilization.Results: Need factors (chronic diseases, disability, child sickness, and old aged parents) play the pivotal role to utilize the health care services. The second important factor that contributes to access to health care services is enabling factors consisting of income, distance to the nearest health care center, health cards/health insurance, land ownership, types of latrine use, and membership in a community group. The predisposing factors i.e. age, sex, religion, occupation and education have the least significant role in utilizing health care services.Conclusions: Utilization of health care services depends mostly on the perception and attitudes of people towards disease and disability. So, policy interventions should be taken to raise awareness among people along with regular monitoring of the activities of health care providers.
Assessing the Functions of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: Factor Analysis of Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation among Adolescents
Authors: Izadi-Mazidi Maryam , Yaghubi Hamid , Mohammadkhani Pavaneh , Hassanabadi Hamidreza
Published: August 2019

Objective: The aim of this cross sectional study was to assess the factor analysis of Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation (FASM) among Iranian adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury.
Method: In this study, 646 high school students, with the mean age of 16.55 ± 0.7, were selected using a multistage cluster sampling method; they completed FASM and the demographic form. Data were analyzed using the descriptive statistics, chi-square (χ2), independent sample t test, MANOVA, and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA).
Results: Of the participants, 178 reported at least 1 episode of NSSI during the previous year. The mean age of the participants when they first harmed themselves was 14.64 (±1.71). Most of them reported to engage in NSSI impulsively (39.32%) and experienced little (31.5%) or moderate physical pain (31.5%) There were no significant differences between males and females in severity of NSSI, frequency of NSSI, thinking about NSSI prior to engaging in the act, and age of onset. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis supported the 4-factor model of NSSI functions suggested by Nock and Prinstine [Χ2/df = 1.84; RMSEA = 0.07; GFI = 0.82; AGFI = 0.77]. The most frequent function for engaging in NSSI was Automatic Negative Reinforcement.
Conclusion: Findings of this study supported the structural validity of the FASM; thus, this tool can be useful in treatment and research contexts as a measure of NSSI functions. Moreover, this study found that adolescents engage in non-suicidal self-injury because of 4 distinct reinforcement processes. The study findings have important implications for the assessment and treatment of NSSI.
Choice Quality as a Function of Decision Accuracy and Search Cost
Authors: Rastgoo Sisakht Reza , Mousavi Shabnam , Negarandeh Rahimeh , Valizadegan Hamid , Noroozian Maryam , Tehrani-Doost Mehdi , Mohammad Razaghid Emran
Published: August 2019

Objective: A prominent challenge in modeling choice is specification of the underlying cognitive processes. Many cognitive-based models of decision-making draw substantially on algorithmic models of artificial intelligence and thus rely on associated metaphors of this field. In contrast, the current study avoids metaphors and aims at a first-hand identification of the behavioral elements of a process of choice.
Method: We designed a game in Mouselab resembling the real-world procedure of choosing a wife. 17 male subjects were exposed to cost-benefit decision criteria that closely mimic their societal respective conditions.
Results: The quality of choice index was measured with respect to its sensitivity to the final outcomes as well as process tracing of decisions. The correlation between this index and individual components of process tracing are discussed in detail. The choice quality index can be configured as a function of expected value and utility. In our sample the quality of choice with an average of 75.98% (SD: ±12.67) suggests that subjects obtained close to 76% of their expected gains.
Conclusion: The quality of choice index, therefore, may be used for comparison of different conditions where the variables of decision-making are altered. The analysis of results also reveals that the cost of incorrect choice is significantly correlated with expected value (0.596, sig = 0.012) but not with utility. This means that when sub-jects face higher costs prior to making a decision, there exists a corresponding higher expectation of gains, i.e., higher expected value.
Evaluating the Diagnostic Agreement between Telepsychiatry Assessment and Face-to-Face Visit: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Mazhari Shahrzad , Ghaffari Nejad Alireza , Mofakhami Omid , Raaii Farzaneh , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz
Published: August 2019

Objective: Despite accumulated evidence that demonstrates clinical outcome of telepsychiatry is comparable with conventional method; little research has been done on telepsychiatry in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic agreement between telepsychiatry assessment and face-to-face assessment. Moreover, patient and doctor satisfaction was assessed by self-report questionnaire.
Method: This study was conducted in an inpatient department of a university-affiliated hospital in Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The study sample consisted of 40 inpatients aged over 18 years who were selected from October 2016 to February 2017. All patients were visited once by face-to-face conventional method and once by interactive video teleconsultation by 2 psychiatric consultants.
Results: Results of this study revealed that the diagnostic agreement between the 2 interviewers was 75%. Moreover, about 85% of the patients preferred telepsychiatry for follow-up visits. Also, more than 82% of the patients would recommend telepsychiatry to others although 95% of them perceived contact via telepsychiatry as uncomfortable to some extent.
Conclusion: Telepsychiatry service can be used for psychiatric evaluation in Iran, and it has a desirable effect on patient and doctor satisfaction. The results of this study showed the capacity of moving towards using telepsychiatry.
Association between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Suicide Attempts in Patients with Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Fili Jafar , Nojomi Marzieh , Razjouyan Katayoon , Kahdemi Mojgan , Davari- Ashtiani Rozita
Published: August 2019

Objective: The present study aimed to examine the association between ADHD and suicide attempts among adolescents with bipolar disorder.
Method: Participants were 168 adolescents who fulfilled DSM-IV-TR criteria for bipolar disorder. They were divided into 2 groups: The first group of patients with bipolar disorder with a history of suicide attempts (n = 84) and the second group without a history of suicide attempts (n = 84). ADHD and other variables were analyzed using a chi-squared test and logistic regression model.
Results: No significant difference was observed between the 2 groups in comorbidity of ADHD and other psychiatric disorders (P value > 0/05). In the logistic regression model, and after controlling for other factors, gender (OR = 3.9, CI 95%: 1.5-9.6) and history of sexual abuse (OR = 3.4; CI 95%: 1.06-11.3) were the only 2 factors associated with a history of suicide attempts.
Conclusion: No significant association was found between ADHD and suicide attempts in adolescents with bipolar disorder.
A Case Series of Severe Hyperammonemia Encephalopathy Related to Valproate: Can Antipsychotics Increase the Risk?
Authors: Davoudi-Monfared Effat , Radmehr Mojan , Ghaeli Padideh , Mousavi Maryam
Published: August 2019

Valproate-induced hyperammonemia is a common side effect of valproate, which may occur either without any symptoms or may rarely cause symptoms of encephalopathy. Different risk factors have been defined for this side effect, including some nutritional deficiencies and polypharmacy (eg, other anticonvulsants). Three cases with psychiatric disorder who showed symptoms of severe hyperammonemia encephalopathy and had taken valproate with antipsychotics, especially risperidone, are presented here. In all cases, the symptoms were improved by discontinuation of valproate. Administration of antipsychotic may be considered as a risk factor for hyperammonemic encephalopathy related to valproate, specifically in some prone populations.
Effects of salinity, temperature and pH on the motility in Siganus guttatus spermatozoa
Authors: Huang X. R. , Liu J. Y. , Zhao F. , Feng G. P. , Wang Y. , Zhang T. , Song C. Guang , Zhuang P.
Published: August 2019

The effects of salinity, temperature and pH on the activity in the spermatozoa of Siganus guttatus were studied. Milt were collected from 8 wild mature males that came from a commercial hatchery. Sperm motility was measured with a VHS video-recorder and a video camera connected to a microscope. The results showed that most of the sperm were highly motile in 400-700 mM NaCl, the longest duration of sperm motility recorded in 600mM NaCl and the duration was 788.0±16.9 s. Sperm was not motile when suspended at pH 4, sperm motility was observed at pH 5, there was a relatively higher percentage of motile sperm in solutions at pH 5-8 (above 80%), the duration was the longest and achieved (769.0±19.8) s when pH was 8. The motility and duration increased within 10-25ºC and decreased at the range of 25-40ºC, the highest motility and the longest duration were all appeared at 25 ºC, they were (91.0±1.4) % and (725.0±21.2) severally. Optimum salinity, temperature and pH for S.guttatus reproduction was 600mM NaCl, 25 ºC and 8 respectively.
Molecular cloning, characterization and tissue specificity of the expression in the TAC1 genes from Henan Huai goat (Capra hircus)
Authors: Tian Zhilong , Wang Yuqin , Shi Huibin , Wu Zhibo , Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Jianping , Li Yuanxiao , Yang Fang , Liu Yumei , Chu Mingxing
Published: August 2019

To further to understand the structure and function of the TAC1 gene, we cloned the full-length cDNAs of the TAC1 genes from goat by rapid amplification of cDNA ends-PCR and the qRT-PCR was used to analyze the TAC1 mRNA expression patterns of goat various tissues. The full-length cDNA of goat TAC1 was 1176 bp, with a 339 bp open reading frame encoding 112 amino acids. The amino acid sequence analysis revealed that goat TAC1 gene encoded a water-drain protein and its relative molecular weight and isoelectric point was 13,012.86 Da and 6.29 respectively. Alignment and phylogenetic analyses revealed that their amino acid sequences were highly similar to those of other vertebrates. TAC1 expression of the goat of the brain, cerebellum, medulla oblongata, heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, uterus, ovaries. These results serve as a foundation for further study on the Capra hircus TAC1 gene.
Customising the requirement of fibrolytic enzymes to improve feeding value of sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulms
Authors: Valli C. , Issac Yancy Mary , Kavitha R.
Published: August 2019

A study was carried out to determine fibre and non starch polysaccharide fractions of sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulms. Sorghum stover had the significantly highest fibre fractions (NDF, ADF, Cellulose, hemicelluloses and Lignin) and non starch polysaccharide fractions (Total, Soluble and Insoluble) compared to the other two crop residues. Enzyme activity assay of cellulase, hemicellulase, xylanase and pectinase revealed multiple activities in a single enzyme. In vitro trials were carried out to evolve substrate specific customized non - starch polysaccharidase mixture for sorghum stover, ragi straw and groundnut haulm. The first trial was conducted to locate the range of enzymes required for maximum sugar release, followed by another in vitro trial to precisely identify the enzymes needed for respective substrates and the third one was to identify the inclusion level of these enzymes in combination to sorghum stover or ragi straw or groundnut haulm. All these trials were conducted in duplicate in three runs. These experiments established that each gram of sorghum stover and ragi straw requires 1200 U of Cellulase, 120 U of Xylanase and 700 U of Pectinase for maximum hydrolysis and each gram of groundnut haulm requires 1600 U of Cellulase, 100 U of Xylanase and 600 U of Pectinase for maximum hydrolysis.
Genotyping of MHC class II DRB3 gene using PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing in small ruminant breeds of Western Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Sankhyan Varun , Thakur Y. P. , Dogra P. K.
Published: August 2019

Sheep and goat farming especially under migratory system is an important activity in state of Himachal Pradesh. DRB locus of major histocompatibility complex is widely studied for its association with disease resistance. Present study was planned to analyse genetic diversity of DRB3 locus in small ruminant breeds of Himachal Pradesh using PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing. 63, 68, 80 and 73 true to the breed animals belonging to Gaddi sheep, Rampur-Bushair sheep, Gaddi goats and Chegu goats, respectively were utilized. Amplification of exon 2 of DRB3 gene yielded 285bp amplified product in different breeds. Three different digestion patterns corresponding to 2 alleles and seven digestion patterns corresponding to 4 alleles were observed with PstI and HaeIII restriction digestion. For Pst 1 digestion frequency of AA, AB and BB genotypes ranged from 0.09 to 0.22, 0.40 to 0.53 and 0.28 to 0.46 in different breeds studied. For HaeIII digestion frequency of five genotypes (AA, BB, CC, AB and AC) which were detected in all breeds varied from 0.18 to 0.32, 0.11 to 0.13, 0.07 to 0.17, 0.18 to 0.30 and 0.09 to 0.3 in different breeds, while frequency of CD and AD genotype unique to Rampur-Bushair sheep population was 0.09 and 0.06, respectively. The observed allele number (No) ranged from 5 to 6 in different breeds while effective allele number (Ne) ranged from 4.46 to 5.15 in different populations. Hobs and Hexp values ranged 0.42 to 0.49 and 0.55 to 0.59, respectively in different breeds. The nucleotide variability was detected using sequences from different breeds which was found at 36 places. In the present study the specific amplification of the exon 2 of DRB3 gene of native sheep and goat populations demonstrated marked polymorphism. Further association studies need to be carried out to investigate the association of these SNPs of DRB region with parasitic diseases.
Effect of claw disorders on haemato-biochemical parameters and acute phase protein levels in crossbred cattle
Authors: Dogra S. , Singh R. , Ravinder S. , Tikoo A.
Published: August 2019

To evaluate the effect of lameness associated with claw disorders on haemato-biochemical and acute phase protein levels, 34 crossbred dairy cattle were selected from 11 dairy farms. Lame animals were categorized based on locomotion score, hoof lesions and severity of disease. Significant (p LESS THAN 0.05) decrease in Hb, PCV, TEC and lymphocyte count with significant increase in neutrophil count was recorded among animals suffering from various claw disorders. Similar trend was observed in animals showing varying locomotion score, lesions and duration of lameness. Biochemical analysis revealed significant (p LESS THAN 0.05) increase in AST, ALT, TPP and globulin among lame animals. Overall average values of haptoglobin, CRP and fibrinogen among the lame animals were 924.59± 59.13µg/ml, 65.00± 1.98µg/ml and 8.75± 0.51mg/dl compared with 607.02± 49.13µg/ml, 13.79± 0.80µg/ml and 2.78± 0.17mg/dl among healthy animals, respectively. Study concluded that lameness due to claw disorders is associated with a systemic acute phase response as significant (p less than 0.05) increase in levels of fibrinogen, Hp, and CRP was observed.
Effect of salinity on survival, hematological and histological changes in genetically improved rohu (Jayanti), Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822)
Authors: Murmu K. , Rasal K. D. , Rasal A. , Sahoo L. D. , Nandanpawar P. C. , Udit U. K. , Patnaik M. , Mahapatra K. D. , Sundaray J. K.
Published: August 2019

The recent climate change and anthropogenic activity affects the agricultural land/soil as well as aquaculture sector via salinization of the aquatic zone. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of salinity on genetically improved farmed rohu, Labeo rohita popularly known as Jayanti and evaluation of its physiological response towards combating salinity stress. Genetically improved rohu (Jayanti) fingerlings were reared in laboratory condition at different salinities 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 ppt to assess the effect of salinity on survival for the first time in India. The study revealed that the Jayanti rohu fingerlings could tolerate salinity upto 8 ppt range. The survival rate of the fingerlings varied from 100%, 95%, 80% and 75% at 2, 4, 6 and 8 ppt salinities, respectively and 100% mortality occurred at 10 ppt. The survival rate was significantly higher in lower salinities than other acclimation salinities. The hematological parameters analysis depicted that blood parameters were affected by increase in salinity beyond 6 ppt. The histological analysis reported mild lesions on gills of fishes exposed to higher salinities at 8 ppt. The present study revealed that exposure to salinity moderately affects the survival and physiological response of genetically improved rohu and thus the potential of the improved rohu “Jayanti” to tolerate salinity levels upto 8 ppt. These results suggest that there is great prospective for culturing selectively bred rohu (Jayanti) species in low saline areas or salt affected areas with good survivability and open new avenues for further research and development.