bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students Evaluating Internet Sources: From Versatile Evaluators to Uncritical Readers
Authors: Kiili Carita , Laurinen Leena , Marttunen Miika
Published: October 2008

The Internet is a significant information resource for students due to the ease of access it allows to a vast amount of information. As the quality of the information on the Internet varies, it is important that students are able to evaluate such information critically. The aim of the study was to investigate how students evaluate Internet sources in an authentic learning task. Upper secondary school students ( n = 25) were asked to look for source material on the Internet in order to write an essay. They were asked to verbalize their thoughts during the material gathering process. Their verbalizations and actions on the Internet were recorded and analyzed. The five evaluation profiles emerged: 1) versatile evaluators; 2) relevance-orientated evaluators; 3) limited evaluators; 4) disorientated readers; and 5) uncritical readers.
Beta-Catenin Expression in Pediatric Fibroblastic and Myofibroblastic Lesions: A Study of 100 Cases
Authors: Thway Khin , Gibson Sian , Ramsay Alan , Sebire Neil J.
Published: October 2008

Nuclear immunoreactivity for β-catenin is a useful adjunct for diagnosis of adult desmoid-type fibromatoses, many of which exhibit mutations within the APC/β-catenin (Wnt) pathway. Pediatric fibromatoses represent a heterogeneous group of lesions that are diagnostically challenging, especially on biopsy. We studied β-catenin expression in a variety of pediatric fibroblastic and myofibroblastic lesions. Immunohistochemical nuclear expression of β-catenin was assessed in 100 tumors. High-level expression of β-catenin was found in 42% of usual-type or deep fibromatoses (21 of 50). Such expression was not seen in any of the other lesions, including fibrous hamartoma of infancy (0 of 18), juvenile hyaline fibromatosis (0 of 7), infantile digital fibromatosis (0 of 6), myofibromatosis (0 of 5), lipofibromatosis (0 of 4), calcifying aponeurotic fibroma (0 of 3), palmar-plantar fibromatosis (0 of 2), fibromatosis colli (0 of 1), or torticollis (0 of 1). High-level β-catenin staining is seen in deep “adult-type” fibromatoses occurring in children, although to a lesser frequency than in adult fibromatoses. This indicates that a subset of deep fibromatoses in childhood shares similar mechanisms of tumorigenesis with those in adults. β-catenin is not expressed in other common pediatric fibroblastic and myofibroblastic lesions, and the Wnt pathway does not appear to play a role in their pathogenesis.
Ketanserin reduces the postischemic EEG and behavioural changes following Endothelin-1-induced occlusion of the middle cerebral artery in conscious rats
Authors: Moyanova Slavianka , Kortenska Lidia , Kirov Roumen , Itzev Dimitar , Usunoff Kamen
Published: October 2008

We modeled the common clinical conditions of human stroke in fully conscious rats through an occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO) by means of unilateral microinjection of Endothelin-1 (ET1) in the vicinity of the artery (EMCAO model). Since the role of serotonin (5-HT) system in the regulation of the cerebral blood flow has been known for long time and no data are available at present for the effects of 5-HT antagonists in focal ischemia models, we further tested whether a blockade of the serotonin-2A (5-HT2A) receptors by ketanserin (20 min post-ET1) would diminish the late EMCAO-induced functional and morphological changes. The long-term neurological (postural reflex) and electroencephalogram (EEG) changes in the somatosensory cortical region (S1FL) were used to assess the effects of ketanserin on the post-ischemic changes. The study was supplemented by a histopathological examination of S1FL area and striatum of both hemispheres. The EMCAO/ ketanserin-treated rats showed much smaller neurological deficits than the EMCAO rats treated with vehicle. This effect was observed on day 3 and lasted until the end of experiments-14 days after EMCAO. The depression of alpha and beta EEG frequencies found after EMCAO was significantly and earlier restored following ketanserin. Notably, there was not augmentation of the pathological slow EEG waves at day 3 post-ET1 in the EMCAO ketanserin-treated rats compared with that observed in the EMCAO vehicle-treated rats. Although there were mild morphological changes in the penumbral S1FL cortical region after EMCAO, ketanserin reduced the histopathological difference between the ipsilateral and contralateral cortical S1FL regions, but did not change the difference between striatum of both sides. Ketanserin reduced the infarct size in ipsilateral hemisphere (mainly cortex). In conclusion, the results showed that treatment with ketanserin at the early stage of stroke may reduce the consequences of ischemia by improvement of functional and morphological recovery at later stages. Ketanserin appears to be a promising candidate for mitigating the consequences of stroke.
Henoch-Schönlein purpura presenting with multiplex gastrointestinal manifestations and massive nephrotic syndrome in adulthood — a case report
Authors: Klaudia Farkas , Tamás Molnár , Ferenc Nagy , László Tiszlavicz , István Németh , Éva Kemény , Erika Varga , Tibor Wittmann
Published: October 2008

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a systemic small vessel vasculitis mainly affecting children. We report a case of a 49-year-old woman with severe gastrointestinal and renal involvement of HSP. Endoscopy revealed more characteristic findings in the terminal ileum than in the gastric antrum. Histological examinations of the biopsy samples from the ileum, antrum, skin and kidney confirmed the diagnosis of HSP. Parenteral corticosteroid therapy led to a rapid improvement of the gastrointestinal symptoms, but because of the excessive proteinuria intravenous cyclophosphamide therapy had to be introduced.
Optimizing the degree of distension and reducing discomfort in CT colonography by means of a microprocessor interface system for air insufflation
Authors: Sirakov Nikolay , Kristev Athanas , Zagorchev Plamen , Nikolov Russin , Sirakov Vladimir , Velkova Kichka
Published: October 2008

The patients’ discomfort during CT colonography determines which method is used and its frequency of use. The discomfort is largely associated with the colon’s insufflation with gas. A system for an automatic room-air insufflation has been developed that ensures a continuous and steady air insufflation and an increase in colonic pressure and enables a relatively fast decompression. This system provides constant pressure monitoring and can alert the operator, if necessary. The degree of discomfort was evaluated for 36 patients, who were subjected to manual and automated air insufflation. The degree of the colonic distension achieved by the two methods was compared. The data analysis showed a significantly lower level of discomfort in patients with automated air insufflation. The degree of colonic distension was evaluated by comparing the diameters of similar segments of the colon, as well as by the subjective opinion of the operator. The distension with automated air insufflation was higher than that with manual air insufflation. In some cases there was a significant difference (P<0,05). In conclusion, the results show that the automatic insufflation of air at room temperature can be used to optimize CT colonography.
Chronic pain in urological diseases: a clinical review
Authors: Prezioso Domenico , Galasso Raffaele , Iapicca Gennaro , Annunziata Emanuele , Martino Mario , Iacono Fabrizio
Published: October 2008

Chronic pain is the central problem in a variety of urological diseases. Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with either actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage. The aim of this research was to update knowledge about the ultrastructural, clinical, psychological and therapeutic aspects of chronic pain in urological diseases, in particular in chronic pelvic syndrome. In this paper we have revisited the most significant and discussed articles published in the last twenty five years, with particular references on the 2008 European Guidelines, searching key words (chronic pelvic pain syndrome, chronic pelvic pain, chronic prostatitis, interstitial cystitis, prostatodynia, urological disease) and data with a high level of evidence. The articles that we have analyzed show that pain is characterized by an initial tissue injury that can lead to sensitization, which is a decrease in the intensity of the stimulus needed to elicit a response by the nerve, involving the peripheral and central nervous systems. The chronic pain state is characterized by loss of inhibitory interneurons, establishment of aberrant excitatory synaptic connections and long-term potentiation of response due to changes in sensitivity of nerve synapses. Stress and hormones might also play a role in central sensitization. Pain also has a cognitive and emotional component. It is very difficult to treat, given the complex nature of the response and the interaction of physiological aspects
Genetic bottleneck among daghestan highlanders migrating to lowlands
Authors: Bulayeva Kazima , Marchani Elizabeth , Kurbatova Olga , Watkins Scott , Bulayev Oleg , Harpending Henry
Published: October 2008

We present results of Short tandem repeat polymorphisms (STRPs) analysis and epidemiology study of indigenous ethnic highlanders of Daghestan and of the migrants from highlands to the lowland area in 1944, in comparison with native lowlanders. Results obtained show that demographically ancient highland ethnics have achieved a relatively stable equilibrium in their native environment and are characterized by optimal level of the main viability parameters (fertility, mortality, lifespan and morbidity). Migrants from highlands to the lowlands experienced dramatically increased morbidity and mortality in 1944–1947: up to 65–70% of total migrants had suffered malaria, typhus and other new infections and about 35–37% of total migrants had died. Genetic-epidemiological study support that non-survived migrants were characterized by a higher inbreeding rate, lower heterozygosity and higher physiological sensitivity to the environmental stress. This inter-connected complex had advantage for adaptation of the highlanders to the native environment but diminished their adaptability in the new and/or changing environment. A detailed study using STRP we performed in 1995–1999 in one highland isolate of ethnic Avars of whom about 50% were moved to the lowland area. We found significant differences in genetic and demographical structures between these highland and migrant parts of the isolate: the genetic bottleneck among migrants had a great qualitative and quantitative impact on their gene pool, i.e., lost of rare native population alleles, as well as of about 1/3 of total migrants with certain genotypes. Survived migrants demonstrate shorter lifespan and higher morbidity rate that support their still ongoing genetic adaptation to the lowland environment.
Venous aneurysms — a neglected pathology
Authors: Turel Mazda , Stephen Edwin , Nayak Sukria , Agarwal Sunil
Published: October 2008

Venous aneurysms are not often recognised nor given importance due to the more serious and challenging nature of their arterial counterpart. They are uncommon entities that generally present as a painless swelling, can be accurately diagnosed by duplex venous scanning and are completely cured by surgical excision. We present a short report of 14 cases treated at a tertiary care centre in India over seven years from June 2001 to June 2008, to increase awareness of this easily treatable condition.
Sedation for middle ear surgery: prospective clinical trial comparing propofol and midazolam
Authors: Benedik Janez , Manohin Aleksander
Published: October 2008

During middle-ear-surgery under local anaesthesia (MES-LA), patients report hearing noises, feeling anxious, and experiencing earache. In a prospective randomized clinical trial, we compared propofol and midazolam for sedation in 68 patients scheduled for MES-LA. The starting dose of propofol was 1 to 1.5 mg per kilogram intravenously, followed by 1 to 2 mg per kilogram per hour given by infusion. The starting dose of midazolam was 0.02 to 0.05 mg per kilogram intravenously, followed by 0.01 to 0.02 mg per kilogram intravenously. Metamizol and fentanyl were added when required. Sedation was titrated to a Ramsay score of 3 to 4 and a bispectral index value of 70 to 80. Patients were assessed for vital parameters and sedation and pain scores. In the recovery room, readiness for discharge and satisfaction of both patient and surgeon with the procedure were assessed. The group receiving propofol had a significantly lower heart rate, shorter duration of sedation, and earlier readiness for discharge (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in other parameters evaluated. Seventy-nine per cent of patients in the group receiving propofol and 91.1% receiving midazolam would choose the same method of anaesthesia and sedation for any further MES-LA. Our results suggest that, compared to midazolam, propofol is more suitable for sedation in patients undergoing MES-LA. However, appropriate patient selection, adequate preparation, and careful monitoring are mandatory.
Ruptured right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm with bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Hakeem Abdul , Mudawi Telal , Morrison William
Published: October 2008

The sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a relatively rare condition that may be congenital or acquired. We present a case of a young man who was admitted to the emergency department with acute dyspnoea whilst playing football. After investigation, the diagnosis of a ruptured right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm into the right atrium was made. The patient also had a bicuspid aortic valve. Percutaneous approach to close the fistula was unsuccessful and the patient underwent surgical closure of the fistula with replacement of his bicuspid aortic valve.
Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy of an acinar cell carcinoma
Authors: Hao Yin , Yong Shen , Xing Deng , Hong Peng
Published: October 2008

Acinar cell carcinoma (ACC) of the pancreas is relatively rare, accounting for only approximately 1% of all exocrine pancreatic tumors. Because ACC of the pancreas is rare, strategy for management needs to be explored. The patient was a 50-year-old man who presented with left upper quadrant pain over 6 months. A mass lesion, located at the pancreatic tail, measuring approximately 4 cm in diameter was found on ultrasound, abdominal dynamic CT. The patient underwent a laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. Immunohistochemical stains and electron microscopic examination of the tumor was consistent with ACC. No complication occurred, and the patient was discharged in good condition on 10th postoperative day. During the 10 months of follow-up, CT and tumor markers revealed no recurrence. In conclusions, Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy can be performed safely for selected patients with nonmetastatic ACC at a favorable anatomic position. This operative strategy offers a minimally invasive surgery with the aim of a potential cure.
Holistic Darwinism: The new evolutionary paradigm and some implications for political science
Authors: Corning Peter A.
Published: October 2008

Holistic Darwinism is a candidate name for a major paradigm shift that is currently underway in evolutionary biology and related disciplines. Important developments include (1) a growing appreciation for the fact that evolution is a multilevel process, from genes to ecosystems, and that interdependent coevolution is a ubiquitous phenomenon in nature; (2) a revitalization of group selection theory, which was banned (prematurely) from evolutionary biology over 30 years ago (groups may in fact be important evolutionary units); (3) a growing respect for the fact that the genome is not a “bean bag” (in biologist Ernst Mayr's caricature), much less a gladiatorial arena for competing selfish genes, but a complex, interdependent, cooperating system; (4) an increased recognition that symbiosis is an important phenomenon in nature and that symbiogenesis is a major source of innovation in evolution; (5) an array of new, more advanced game theory models, which support the growing evidence that cooperation is commonplace in nature and not a rare exception; (6) new research and theoretical work that stresses the role of nurture in evolution, including developmental processes, phenotypic plasticity, social information transfer (culture), and especially the role of behavioral innovations as pacemakers of evolutionary change (e.g., niche construction theory, which is concerned with the active role of organisms in shaping the evolutionary process, and gene-culture coevolution theory, which relates especially to the dynamics of human evolution); (7) and, not least, a broad effort to account for the evolution of biological complexity — from major transition theory to the “Synergism Hypothesis.” Here I will briefly review these developments and will present a case for the proposition that this paradigm shift has profound implications for the social sciences, including specifically political theory, economic theory, and political science as a discipline. Interdependent superorganisms, it turns out, have played a major role in evolution — from eukaryotes to complex human societies.
The development of the norm against the use of poison: What literature tells us
Authors: van Courtland Moon John Ellis
Published: October 2008

The use of chemical and biological weapons on the battlefield is considered by most commentators — and by international law — as more abhorrent than the use of nearly all other weapons, including ones meant either to kill secretly or to kill terribly, as do fire or burial alive. I ask why this is so. I explore this question through the study of imagery patterns in Western literature and campaigns against food contamination and environmental pollution. I find that the norm against chemical and biological weapons builds upon a taboo against poisons, a prohibition widely accepted in military manuals as distinguishing soldierly conduct from criminal conduct, especially those forms of conduct made criminal by the employment of treachery, invisibility, and transformation.
“Happy warriors” Revisited: Hedonic and agonic display repertoires of presidential candidates on the evening news
Authors: Bucy Erik P. , Grabe Maria Elizabeth
Published: October 2008

Absent from most analyses of political news are detailed assessments of the candidates' nonverbal behavior, which has been shown experimentally to have considerable persuasive influence. Unlike attractiveness and other relatively stable aspects of appearance, facial displays are highly variable and reveal important moment-to-moment information about the emitter's internal state. In this paper we argue that facial displays are influential elements within political news and examine the character of televised candidate displays over four presidential election cycles. The analysis considers coverage of major party nominees shown during the general elections of 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004 on the major broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC). To motivate our hypotheses, we draw on the biopolitics literature that has identified three classes of displays relevant to the study of nonverbal political behavior: happiness/reassurance, anger/threat, and fear/evasion. The analysis focuses on the relationship between the display types shown in election coverage, the context in which the displays are shown, and candidate standings in the polls.
Bird Flu: Awareness is the Prime Concern
Authors: Chowdhury Md Faizul Islam , Chowdhury Fazle Rabbi , Hoque AKM Aminul
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1354J MEDICINE 2006; 7: 1-2
Comparison of Highly Sensitive CRP and Serum Creatinine as an Early Marker of Renal Impairment
Authors: Yeasmin Roksana , Bhuiyan Md Nizamul Hoque , Parveen Sultana , Ferdous Shamim Ara , Nahar Nazmun
Published: October 2008

A case control study was done during the period of July 2004 to 2005. The study was carried out in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. 50 diagnosed chronic renal failure patients of both sexes not yet treated by dialysis and 50 age and sex matched healthy subjects were included in the study as case (Group-II) and control (Group-I) respectively. In this study, mean serum HS CRP concentration of CRF patients (50.938 Â±38.88)mg/l found to be significantly elevated in comparison to control (1.12Â±.29mg/l). In CRF patients, serum HS CRP found to show a strong negative correlation with creatinine clearance and a strong positive correlation with blood urea, serum creatinine. This study shows an inverse linear relationship between HS CRP and CCRin contrast to the inverse curvilinear relationship found to exist between serum creatinine and creatinine clearance. Regression analysis between CCR and HS CRP shows a rise of HS CRP Y one unit (mg/l) is accompanied by creatinine clearance to be decreased by 0 .44ml/min. Mean serum HS CRP concentration in chronic renal failure increases significantly. Early phase of decreased CCR can not be detected by the serum creatinine because serum creatinine does not increase until there is significant fall ( 30 ml/min) of creatinine clearance. In contrast to this serum HS CRP begins to rise from the very beginning of the fall of creatinine clearance. So the early phase of decreased creatinine clearance could be detected by simultaneous rise of serum HS CRP. Key Words: HS CRP, CRF, CCR. Â Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1356 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 10-14
Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs-An Overview
Authors: Rahman M Matiur , Alam Md Billal , Islam Md Azizul , Haque AKM Aminul
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1358 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 20-31
The Role of Glucoseamine Sulfate on Osteoarthritis: An update
Authors: Hasan Md Rashidul , Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Chowdhury Md Faizul Islam , Rahman M Matiur
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1359 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 32-35
Chylous Ascites - A Presentation of Gastric Lymphoma
Authors: Bari Md Shafiqul , Yasmin Rubina , Ayaz KFM , Begum Afsana , Rajib NC , Rashid MA , Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Siddiqui FM
Published: October 2008

A 47-year-old male was admitted with gradually developing ascites. Paracentesis revealed chylous fluid. Histoathology following endoscopic biopsy from the stomach was suggestive of diffuse Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, intermediate grade. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1360 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 36-38
Serum LDL Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio Alternative to Albumin in Relation to Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Parveen S , Shamsuzzaman Md , Begum Khursid Ara , Bhuiyan Nizamul Haque , Yeasmin R , Saifunnahar M
Published: October 2008

In a study of coronary heart disease in males, their is a correlation between LDL cholesterol/ HDL cholesterol ratio & albumin(r= 0.46,p < 0.001).We then correlated the LDL cholesterol: albumin ratio( TC: Alb) with the LDL c : HDL -c ratio ( r= 0.12,p < 0.001).An excellent correlation was obtained between LDL-C : Alb ratio separated the patients with normal ( < 5) and increased (>5) LDL-C: HDL-C ratio better than LDL-C by itself(Amin A Nanji, Suseela Reddy et al). Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1364 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 51-53
Creatinine clearnce Rate (CCR) in Dignosing Different stages of chronic kidney Disease (CKD) - An update and review
Authors: Alam MM Jahangir , Chowdhury Fasle Rabbi , Chowdhury Faizul Islam , Saha Anup Kumar , Hoque AKM Aminul , Mujiburrahman Md
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1367 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 64-69
Differences in Bacteriological and Antibiotic Sensitivity Patterns in UTI among Hospitalized Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients
Authors: Hasan Mohammed Kamrul , Nazimuddin Khwaja , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Sarker Rene Suzan Claude , Haque Muzammel , Musa AKM
Published: October 2008

Aim of this study was to determine bacteriological pattern and there antibiotic sensitivity in UTI. The retrospective study carried out in department of internal medicine of BIRDEM on 300 consecutive patients with or without Diabetes Mellitus and whose urine culture shows growth of >105 organism/ml of urine, during the period from January 2006 to July 2007.A total of 300 patients were included in the study. The highest number of isolates was E.coli (62%,184) followed by Klebsiella (17%,50),Pseudomonas(6%,19), Enterococcus(8%, 23), Staphylococcus (3%, 10), Proteus (1%, 4) respectively in patient with DM(N-261) or without DM(N-39).All of these isolates were highly sensitive to Imipenem(96%) while some were high to moderate sensitive to other antibiotics. E.coli isolates showed high sensitivity to Aminoglycosides (72%, 133), Nitrofurantoin (70%, 129), and third generation Cephalosporin (61%, 112). Klebsiella was observed highly sensitive to third generation Cephalosporin (29%, 58) AND Nitrofurantoin (30%, 60). Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1373 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 10-13
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) - A Disease of New Era
Authors: Azad Md Abul Kalam , Quayum Shaheen Lipika , Mohammad Hanif , Chowdhury Maj , Mahmood Tak , Rahim MA , Ahmed Tofayel
Published: October 2008

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the term used to describe the alcohol-like liver injury that occurs in the absence of alcohol abuse (alcohol consumption of over 20 g/day excludes the condition). It includes a range of histological abnormalities including simple steatosis or fatty liver, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NAFLD induced cirrhosis. Its increasing prevalence in western countries, the diagnostic difficulties by noninvasive tests, and the possibility of progression to advanced fibrosis and even cirrhosis make NASH a challenge for physicians. NASH is frequently associated with type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome, and several genetic and acquired factors are involved in its pathogenesis. Insulin resistance plays a central role in the development of a steatotic liver, which becomes vulnerable to additional injuries. Several cyclic mechanisms leading to self-enhancement of insulin resistance and hepatic accumulation of fat have been recently identified. Excess intracellular fatty acids, oxidant stress, tumor necrosis factor, and mitochondrial dysfunction are causes of hepatocellular injury, thereby leading to disease progression and to the establishment of NASH. Intestinal bacterial overgrowth also plays a role, by increasing production of endogenous ethanol and proinflammatory cytokines. Therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating insulin resistance, managing risk factors, including reduction of weight normalizing lipoprotein metabolism, and down regulating inflammatory mediators with probiotics have promising potential. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1375 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 17-27
Myopathy: As an Initial Presentation of Hypothyroidism in Two cases of Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Azad Md Abul Kalam , Quayum Shaheen Lipika , Haque Md Shamsul , Islam Md Azizul , Azad KAK , Saha Anup Kumar , Ahmed Tofayel
Published: October 2008

Although hypothyroidism may cause a wide range of muscle disturbances, an overt myopathy may rarely present as an isolated initial presentation of hypothyroidism. The frequency of myopathy in hypothyroidism ranges from 30 to 80%. The major muscular symptoms are weakness, muscular cramps and myalgia. Laboratorial investigation generally shows increased levels of muscle enzymes and low serum thyroid hormones, with high thyrotrophic-stimulating hormone (TSH) elevated. The electrophysiological study reveals myopathy, neuropathy or mixed pattern. The treatment consists in hormone replacement and the prognosis is good in most of the cases. We report two cases that developed cramps, myalgia, and weakness, one of them presented as a polymyositis-like syndrome. The muscle enzymes were increased with a raised level of TSH. The myopathy was the initial manifestation of hypothyroidism in these cases. Both the patient was treated by replacement of thyroxin with significant clinical and biochemical improvement. DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1379 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 32-36
Prevalence of Hypertension among the Patients Who Attend Medicine Outdoor of Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Authors: Kabir Ahmedul , Barman Tushar Kanti , Yousuf Nusrat Ara , Fatima Nusrat , Banik Jayanta
Published: October 2008

Introduction: Worldwide, Hypertension is the established risk factor for many premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Prevalence of hypertension depends on both the racial composition of the population and the criteria used to define the condition and on how extensively the evaluation I done. Objective: To find out the Prevalence of hypertension and also the variation of Prevalence of hypertension, at different age group, rural to urban population, association with other medical conditions and family history of hypertension among the patients who come to seek treatment in Medicine OPD, Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the medicine outdoor of Dhaka Medical College Hospital during the whole month of July'2007. The patients who attend medicine OPD, DMCH during the month of July'2007 to seek medical treatment were included in the study. Exclusion criteria was who denied to measure Blood pressure or non cooperation of the patient. The diagnosis and classification of hypertension was done according to the JNC-7 report. A subject was considered hypertensive if one has an average SBP >140 mm of Hg of DBP>90 mm of Hg or if he/ she was already diagnosed as a hypertensive with or without anti-hypertensive medication. Blood pressure (BP) was measured twice in two arms by using sphygmomanometer. Among the newly detected hypertensive patients, blood pressure was again measured after 15 minutes of rest in handled chair, in calm environment. After second measurement if BP is still more than or equal to 140/90 mmHg, they were detected as hypertensive. After detecting hypertensive patient, their all data are recorded in a structured questionnaire. Results: After proper measurement of BP of 17,792 patients, hypertension was found in 554 patient (3.11%) of them 181 were male (32.67%) and 373 were female (67.33%). So, Prevalence of hypertension among the patient who attend medicine outdoor of DMCH is about 3.11% and slight this female predominance. Conclusion: This data may not exactly reflect the actual Prevalence of hypertension as it is outdoor hospital based but give an idea about the Prevalence of hypertension among the patient who attend for treatment in a tertiary based hospital. Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1406 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 49-52
Clinical Study on Patients with Grossly Elevated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
Authors: Haque Md Zahirul , Alam Saki Md Jakiul , Noman Mesbahuddin , Azhar MA
Published: October 2008

This study was done in medicine indoor department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital from January 2004 to March 2004. Consecutive 100 patients, who were advised to test the ESR by their physicians for their complaints and found to have an ESR, equal to or more than 100 mm in 1st hour, were included in this study. Among 100 patients 56 were male and 44 were female. All of them were classified in five age groups. They were also categorized according to their monthly income and occupation. Fever, generalized weakness, weight loss, pallor, pain, body ache were the common presenting complaints. Haematological disorder appeared to be most common cause (41%) of marked ESR elevation; followed by infectious diseases (36%) and connective tissue disorders (17%). Among the all patients 30% cases were haematological malignancies (i.e. acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic leukaemia, lymphomas, multiple myeloma). In 4% cases the cause could not be elicited. Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1411 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 64-68
Non-Hodgkinâs Lymphoma in Colon
Authors: Chowdhury Monzorul Hasan , Chowdhury Fasle Rabbi , Mohammed Fazle Rabbi , Shams Md Ziaus , Alam Md Billal
Published: October 2008

The incidence of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has steadily risen and while other cancers have increased 25%, NHL has increased >80%. In the majority of NHL patients, the disease arises in lymph nodes, but primary extranodal disease accounts for 30% of new lymphoma patients and often present as localized disease. We report a rare and interesting case of intermediate grade diffuse Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in colon. A 30year old man presented to our department with the complaints of mild epigastric pain, occasional loose stools and, abdominal swelling for 3 months along with significant weight loss for the last 2 months. On examination, he appeared cachectic with only 33 kg, an intra-abdominal mass was palpable in the epigastrium rt side from the midline measuring 3cmx5cm, hard in consistency but does not move with respiration which was consisted with abdominal lymph node. USG guided FNAC of right upper abdominal mass revealed: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Biopsy report of tissue from colon revealed diffuse non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, intermediate grade. To our knowledge, very few cases are reported so far with similar presentations and finally diagnosed with non-hodgkin's lymphoma of colon. Thus, in our clinical practice, if a middle aged person present with wt. loss, chronic diarrhoea, and abdominal swelling, we should also suspect this might be a case of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of colon as an extranodal presentation. DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1413 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 74-75
Two Cases of Sarcoidosis in One Family with Review
Authors: Kabir Ahmedul , Banik Jayanta , Barman Tushar Kanti
Published: October 2008

Sarcoidosis is a multisystemic disease that has an immunological basis. We report a family in which two members have been affected with sarcoidosis. The radiological findings of all cases were presented, together with histopathological diagnosis. The particular interest in this report is the fact that two family members we present here are blood relatives. Â Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1414 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 76-80
Binaphthyl‐Containing Green‐ and Red‐Emitting Molecules for Solution‐Processable Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhou Yi , He Qingguo , Yang Yi , Zhong Haizheng , He Chang , Sang Guangyi , Liu Wei , Yang Chunhe , Bai Fenglian , Li Yongfang
Published: October 2008

Strong intermolecular interactions usually result in decreases in solubility and fluorescence efficiency of organic molecules. Therefore, amorphous materials are highly pursued when designing solution‐processable, electroluminescent organic molecules. In this paper, a non‐planar binaphthyl moiety is presented as a way of reducing intermolecular interactions and four binaphthyl‐containing molecules (BNCMs): green‐emitting BBB and TBT as well as red‐emitting BTBTB and TBBBT, are designed and synthesized. The photophysical and electrochemical properties of the molecules are systematically investigated and it is found that TBT, TBBBT, and BTBTB solutions show high photoluminescence (PL) quantum efficiencies of 0.41, 0.54, and 0.48, respectively. Based on the good solubility and amorphous film‐forming ability of the synthesized BNCMs, double‐layer structured organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) with BNCMs as emitting layer and poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK) or a blend of poly[N,N′‐bis(4‐butylphenyl)‐N,N′‐bis(phenyl)benzidine] and PVK as hole‐transporting layer are fabricated by a simple solution spin‐coating procedure. Amongst those, the BTBTB based OLED, for example, reaches a high maximum luminance of 8315 cd · m−2 and a maximum luminous efficiency of 1.95 cd · A−1 at a low turn‐on voltage of 2.2 V. This is one of the best performances of a spin‐coated OLED reported so far. In addition, by doping the green and red BNCMs into a blue‐emitting host material poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene‐2,7‐diyl) high performance white light‐emitting diodes with pure white light emission and a maximum luminance of 4000 cd · m−2 are realized.
Hierarchical Superstructures with Helical Sense in Self‐Assembled Achiral Banana‐Shaped Liquid Crystalline Molecules
Authors: Lin Shih‐Chieh , Lin Tz‐Feng , Ho Rong‐Ming , Chang Chin‐Yen , Hsu Chain‐Shu
Published: October 2008

The self‐assembly of 1,3‐phenylene bis[4‐(4‐n‐heptyloxybenzoyloxy)‐benzoates] (BC7) is studied to examine the formation of helical morphologies from achiral banana‐shaped liquid crystal molecules at different self‐assembling levels. Various hierarchical superstructures including flat‐elongated lamellar crystal, left‐ and right‐handed helical ribbons, and tubular texture are observed while the BC7 molecules self‐assemble in THF/H2O solution. By contrast, only plate‐like morphology is observed in the self‐assembly of achiral linear shaped 1,4‐phenylene bis[4‐(4‐n‐heptyloxybenzoyloxy)‐benzoates] (LC7) molecules, indicating that the chirality of the self‐assembled texture is strongly dependent upon the molecular geometry of the achiral molecules. The formation of the helical superstructures, namely hierarchical chirality, is attributed to the conformational chirality from the achiral banana‐shaped liquid crystalline molecules, as evidenced by significant optical activity in time‐resolved circular dichroism experiments. Selective area electron diffraction is performed to examine the structural packing of the hierarchical superstructures. As observed, the molecular disposition of the lamellar crystal is identical to that of the helical superstructure. Also, the diffraction patterns of the helical superstructures appeared arc‐like patterns consisting of a series of reflections, suggesting that the helical morphology resulted from the curving of the lamellar crystals through a twisting and bending mechanism. Consequently, the model of molecular disposition in the self‐assembled helical superstructures from the achiral banana‐shaped molecules is proposed. The morphological evolution in this study may provide further understanding with respect to the chiral information transfer mechanism from specific molecular geometry to hierarchical chirality in the achiral banana‐shaped molecules.
Anatomy and Growth Characteristics of Conjugated Polyelectrolyte/DNA Aggregates
Authors: Chi Chunyan , Chworos Arkadiusz , Zhang Jinping , Mikhailovsky Alexander , Bazan Guillermo C.
Published: October 2008

Conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) have been widely used as light harvesting macromolecules to amplify the signals of fluorescent assays that betray the presence of various biomolecular targets. Electrostatic interactions play an important role in coordinating optical coupling events and lead to the formation of complexes between oppositely charged CPEs and the target species. Here, we combine for the first time optical studies and structural characterization by liquid phase atomic force microscopy (AFM) to provide a picture of aggregate structure and growth dynamics between cationic CPE and DNA as a function of charge ratio. Specifically, poly120, a copolymer containing a backbone with 50% fluorene, 30% phenylene, and 20% 2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole (BT) units and pendant cationic groups was mixed with single stranded DNA (ssDNA) labeled with the Cy5 acceptor chromophore. Continuous addition of ssDNA‐Cy5 to poly120 leads to a saturation in Cy5 emission due to Cy5–Cy5 self‐quenching. Addition of ssDNA to a preformed poly120/ssDNA‐Cy5 solution results in increased sensitization by energy transfer and a reduction of Cy5–Cy5 self quenching. Adsorption of aggregates onto negatively charged mica under water allows for direct imaging of the polyelectrolyte complexes as a function of charge ratio. The composite set of observations allows for the development of a model for aggregate growth, which is dynamic and ceases when the surface charge becomes sufficiently negative. This saturation point can be mitigated by addition of unlabeled ssDNA.
The influence of sexual maturation on blood pressure and body fatness in African‐American adolescent girls and boys
Authors: Chen Xiaoli , Wang Youfa
Published: October 2008

To examine the influence of sexual maturation (SM) on blood pressure (BP) and body fatness during puberty among African‐American children. Longitudinal data were collected from 283 African‐American children aged 9–15 years over a 1.5‐year period. Measured anthropometric measures included height, weight, skinfold thickness, waist circumference (WC), and systolic and diastolic BP (SBP/DBP) at baseline, 1‐year, and 1.5‐year follow‐up were used. SM was assessed using self‐reported Tanner stages (range 1–5) at baseline. Spearman correlation and regression analyses were conducted to test associations between study variables. Early maturing girls had higher BP and body mass index (BMI = weight (kg)/height (m)2) at follow‐up than nonearly maturing girls (SBP: 117.4 vs. 111.7; DBP: 66.3 vs. 60.7; BMI: 27.7 vs. 23.5; all P < 0.05, respectively). Baseline Tanner stage was positively associated with follow‐up SBP (r = 0.28), DBP (r = 0.37), BMI (r = 0.45), skinfold thickness (r = 0.37), and WC (r = 0.40) in girls, but not in boys. The influence of SM on BP independent of body size was tested via several different multiple linear regression models by adding measures of body size and their changes (height and BMI) between baseline and follow‐up. Early maturing girls had higher SBP and DBP (β = 4.30, P < 0.05; β = 3.28, P < 0.05; respectively) and BMI (β = 1.69, P < 0.05) at 1.5‐year follow‐up than their counterparts. In boys, a marginally significant reverse association (β = −1.05 to −1.19) between SM stages and DBP was detected. SM affects BP and body fatness in girls, and should be considered in assessment of BP and obesity in adolescents. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Change in body mass index is a stronger predictor of change in fat mass than lean mass in elderly black and white women
Authors: Arngrímsson Sigurbjörn Á. , McAuley Edward , Evans Ellen M.
Published: October 2008

The aim of this study was to determine the relation between change in body mass index (BMI) and changes in fat mass (FM), lean soft tissue (LST), and percentage body fat (%Fat) in elderly (67.6 ± 6.0 years) women varying in race (53 black, 144 white) who underwent measurements of BMI, FM, LST, and %Fat at baseline and after 2 years. The group did not markedly change body composition over 2 years (BMI = −0.1 ± 1.5 kg/m2, P = 0.53; FM = 0.0 ± 2.8 kg, P = 0.95; LST = −0.4 ± 1.7 kg, P < 0.001; %Fat = 0.3 ± 2.0%, P = 0.06). Change in BMI predicted change in FM (r = 0.90, SEE = 1.19 kg FM, P < 0.001) but was less predictive of change in %Fat (r = 0.64, SEE = 1.54%Fat, P < 0.001). Change in BMI was curvilinearly related to change in LST adjusted for change in height (R = 0.76, SEE = 1.10 kg LST, P < 0.001). Change in BMI more strongly predicts change in FM than LST and could be used to monitor change in FM in community‐dwelling women. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Population genetic dynamics in the French Guiana region
Authors: Mazières Stéphane , Sevin André , Callegari‐Jacques Sidia M. , Crubézy Eric , Larrouy Georges , Dugoujon Jean‐Michel , Salzano Francisco M.
Published: October 2008

Three sets of genetic markers (blood group plus protein polymorphisms, mitochondrial DNA, and Y‐chromosome) were compared in four French Guiana and one Brazilian Amerindian populations. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient between five gene diversity statistics and historical or present‐day population sizes showed significant values, indicating loss of diversity due to population bottlenecks. The three sets of markers furnished distinct admixture estimates, and the blood group plus protein polymorphisms could have overestimated the European contribution to their gene pool. Correspondence analysis distinguished the coastal from the interior populations, possibly reflecting past migration events. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Androgens and energy allocation: Quasi‐experimental evidence for effects of influenza vaccination on men's testosterone
Authors: Simmons Zachary L. , Roney James R.
Published: October 2008

Androgens are proposed to allocate finite energetic resources away from immune function and toward anabolic processes related to reproductive effort. In situations of pathogen exposure, the significant energetic demands associated with mounting an immune response are expected to produce a decrease in androgen levels and commensurate redistribution of energy. We tested the hypothesis that even the mild immune challenge associated with vaccination may cause a decline in men's testosterone. As predicted, men who received an influenza vaccination exhibited a more negative change in testosterone over a 2‐week period than did men in a nonequivalent control group who were not vaccinated. These results suggest that men's androgen concentrations may be finely calibrated to trade‐offs between the energetic demands of immune responses and other life history problems. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Demographic, clinical and occupational characteristics associated with early onset of delivery: Findings from the duke health and safety surveillance system, 2001–2004
Authors: Schoenfisch Ashley L. , Dement John M. , Rodríguez‐Acosta Rosa L.
Published: October 2008

Background

This cross‐sectional study explores associations between preterm delivery and demographic, clinical and occupational characteristics of women employed within a university and health system.

Methods

A comprehensive surveillance system linking individual‐level data from Human Resources, medical insurance claims and a job‐exposure matrix was used to identify women with a single live birth between 2001 and 2004 and describe maternal characteristics during pregnancy.

Results

Preterm delivery occurred in 7.1% (n = 74) of the 1,040 women, a lower preterm delivery prevalence than observed in the general U.S. population. Nearly all (>99.5%) women utilized prenatal care services. Prevalence of preterm delivery was highest for inpatient nurses, nurses' aides and office staff. In multivariate analyses, preterm delivery was positively associated with several clinical conditions: placenta previa, diabetes and cardiovascular disorder/disease.

Conclusions

We observed associations between preterm delivery and several previously indicated clinical conditions. Further study of the effect of job characteristics on preterm delivery is warranted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:911–922, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Work‐related non‐fatal injuries among foreign‐born and US‐born workers: Findings from the U.S. National Health Interview Survey, 1997–2005
Authors: Zhang Xiaofei , Yu Songlin , Wheeler Krista , Kelleher Kelly , Stallones Lorann , Xiang Huiyun
Published: October 2008

Background

Millions of foreign‐born workers are employed in the US. Population‐based surveys have value in describing the non‐fatal work‐related injuries that these workers suffer.

Methods

Using data from the 1997–2005 National Health Interview Survey, we compared the rates of non‐fatal work‐related injuries among foreign‐born and US‐born adult workers. Logistic regression was used to produce work‐related injury odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) by nativity and years of residence while controlling for sex, age, race/ethnicity, education, poverty, family size, insurance status, delayed medical care, and alcohol use. Industry‐specific rates were also compared.

Results

Foreign‐born workers reported a lower rate of work‐related injuries than US‐born workers, 50 per 10,000 foreign‐born workers versus 89 per 10,000 US‐born workers (P < 0.01). After controlling for confounding variables, the OR of work‐related injuries for foreign‐born workers as compared to US‐born workers was 0.50 (95% CI = 0.38–0.66). The construction, agriculture/forestry and fisheries, and manufacturing industries had the highest work‐related injury rates for both groups of workers.

Conclusions

Foreign‐born workers had a lower overall rate of work‐related injury when compared to US‐born workers. Both US‐born and foreign‐born workers face significant injury risks, especially in certain industries. Interventions tailored with ethnic and cultural differences in mind are still warranted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:25–36, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.