bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for DVT/PE in Patients with Stroke and Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Stecker Mark , Michel Kathleen , Antaky Karin , Cherian Sarah , Koyfman Feliks
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) are serious problems for patients admitted to the hospital with stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and transient ischemic attack (TIA). The purpose of this paper is to further understand the factors that place certain patients at increased risk of DVT/PE.

Methods:

At a 600 bed hospital, a retrospective analysis of data from 2613 patients admitted with a diagnosis of stroke, SAH, ICH or TIA in the time range 1/2008 through 3/2012 was carried out. The data was taken from the hospital’s Get with the Guidelines database and included 28 variables. These included initial NIH stroke scale, length of stay, heart failure, ambulatory by day 2 after admission, altered mental status,and renal failure among others. Multiple analyses were carried out to determine whether there were univariable or multivariable effects of any of the factors on the risk for DVT/PE.

Results:

The risk of DVT/PE was highest in patients with SAH and ICH and smallest with TIA. Multivariable analyses were performed and revealed only altered level of consciousness or heart failure as significant risks for DVT/PE. With the limited available data, administration of subcutaneous heparin or other chemoprophylaxis did not reduce the risk of DVT/PE.

Conclusion:

Although many of the variables used to describe the stroke patient are correlated, in multivariable analyses only heart failure and altered level of consciousness were important risk factors for DVT/PE. The risk of DVT/PE was 7 fold greater in patients in patients with both of these risk factors.
Survey of Microbial Enzymes in Soil, Water, and Plant Microenvironments
Authors: Alves Priscila Divina Diniz , Siqueira Flávia de Faria , Facchin Susanne , Horta Carolina Campolina Rebello , Victória Júnia Maria Netto , Kalapothakis Evanguedes
Published: May 2014

Detection of microbial enzymes in natural environments is important to understand biochemical activities and to verify the biotechnological potential of the microorganisms. In the present report, 346 isolates from soil, water, and plants were screened for enzyme production (caseinase, gelatinase, amylase, carboxymethyl cellulase, and esterase). Our results showed that 89.6% of isolates produced at least one tested enzyme. A predominance of amylase in soil samples, carboxymethyl cellulase in plants, as well as esterase and gelatinase in water was observed. Interesting enzymatic profiles were found in some microenvironments, suggesting specificity of available nutrients and/or natural selection. This study revealed the potential of microorganisms present in water, soil, and plant to produce important enzymes for biotechnological exploration. A predominance of certain enzymes was found, depending on the type of environmental sample. The distribution of microbial enzymes in soil, water and plants has been little exploited in previous reports.
Painful Neuron-Microglia Interactions in the Trigeminal Sensory System
Authors: Davies Alexander J. , Kim Yong Ho , Oh Seog Bae
Published: May 2014

The trigeminal sensory system is unique in its innervation of structures specific to the orofacial area. Nociceptive trigeminal afferents are known to synapse with second-order neurons in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Sp5C) in the brain stem. The activity of neurons within the Sp5C is responsible for the relay of nociceptive signals to higher brain centers. Recent evidence suggests that central sensitization may be fundamental to many trigeminal-specific painful neuropathies, including trigeminal neuralgia and migraine. Glia within the Sp5C are emerging as prime suspects in trigeminal central sensitization. In particular, microglial activation has been implicated in the development of neuropathic pain. It is possible that activated microglia release factors that alter the activity of second-order neurons or the synaptic activity of peripheral terminals within the Sp5C. Microglial activation has been characterized by changes in morphology, expression of membrane receptors and ion channels, as well as alterations to cytokine and chemokine release. In addition, microglia have been studied in brain slice and dissociated culture where activation is characterized by changes to P2X receptor and potassium channel membrane currents. However, little is known about resting and activated microglial membrane properties in the Sp5C and, furthermore, how these properties are affected following trigeminal nerve injury. This review summarizes the anatomical and pathophysiological importance of the Sp5C and focuses on recent studies on neurons and microglia in the trigeminal sensory system. The final part of the review aims to link important aspects of microglial membrane physiology with their potential role in chronic trigeminal pain conditions.
Acupuncture for Pain Treatment
Authors: Monzani R. , Crozzoli L. , De Ruvo M.
Published: May 2014

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a therapeutic system comparable to allopathic medicine. Its most known application concerns with pain control and that is why it is mostly performed by anesthesiologists, pain therapists or pure acupuncturists.

Acupuncture has great and wide potential: treatment of acute low back pain, intra-operative electro-analgesia and other therapeutic indications well recognized by WHO.

Acupuncture points can be rubbed down, warmed up, electrically stimulated or simply hit. Their existence is scientifically proven.

Acupuncture can be used in daily clinical practice: its efficacy as anti-emetic or preventive treatment for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, chemotherapy and individual sensitivity is well proven.

Acupuncture can support medical therapy in the first approach to chronic pain and in the second step it can completely replace pharmacological therapy.

Although the number of treated patients is smaller, acupuncture seems to be similar to pharmacological therapy with regard to postoperative pain control.
Nociceptor Sensitization by Proinflammatory Cytokines And Chemokines
Authors: Kress Michaela
Published: May 2014

Cytokines are small proteins with a molecular mass lower than 30 kDa. They are produced and secreted on demand, have a short life span and only travel over short distances if not released into the blood circulation. In addition to the classical interleukins and the chemotactic chemokines, growth factors like VEGF or FGF and the colony stimulating factors are also considered cytokines since they have pleiotropic actions and regulatory function in the immune system.Despite the redundancy and pleiotropy of the cytokine network, specific actions of individual cytokines and endogenous control mechanisms have been identified. Particular local profiles of the classical proinflammatory cytokines are associated with inflammatory hypersensitivity and suggest an early involvement of TNF􀀁, IL-1ß and IL-6. An increasing number of novel cytokines and the more recently discovered chemokines are being associated with pathological pain states. Besides acting as pro- or anti-inflammatory mediators increasing evidence indicates that cytokines act on
nociceptors. Neurons within the nociceptive system express neuronal receptors and specifically bind cytokines or chemokines which regulate neuronal excitability, sensitivity to external stimuli and synaptic plasticity. A first step towards a more mechanistic and individual pain therapeutic strategy could be avoidance of hypersensitive pain processing by either neutralization strategies for the proalgesic cytokines or by shifting the balance in favour of antialgesic members of the cytokine-chemokine network.
Personality Traits and Subjective Health Complaints in Female TMD Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Mohn Christine , Vassend Olav , Schie Krogstad Berit , Knardahl Stein
Published: May 2014

Background: Personality traits and general health complaints may influence the course of and treatment of chronic pain. However, only few studies compare more than one or two personality characteristics in chronic pain patients and healthy controls. This study compares the comprehensive non-pathological personality structure of female patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and pain-free controls. Moreover, this study controls for the influence of Neuroticism, self-presentation bias, and acute pain sensitivity on the subjective report of general health complaints. Methods: Twenty-five TMD patients were compared to 25 matched controls on personality traits (NEO Personality Inventory- Revised; NEO-PI-R), self-presentation bias (Social Desirability Scale; SDS), psychological distress (Symptom Checklist 90-Revised; SCL-90-R), and general somatic complaints. Experimental pain sensitivity was assessed by electrocutaneous and pressure pain stimulation.Results: Compared to the controls, Extraversion and Openness were lower in the TMD group, and the TMD patients exhibited higher levels of psychological and musculoskeletal complaints also when Neuroticism, self-presentation bias, and acute pain sensitivity were held constant.Conclusions: Low levels of Extraversion and Openness may dispose TMD patients to isolation and negative thought patterns.The elevated levels of psychological distress and general musculoskeletal pain in the TMD group add to previous
reports of TMD as a complex condition also involving structures and processes outside of the orofacial region.
Retinal hemorrhages as one of complications of optic disc drusen during pregnancy
Authors: Trenkic-Bozinovic Marija , Jovanovic Predrag , Zlatanovic Gordana , Veselinovic Dragan , Aracki-Trenkic Aleksandra , Trenkic Milan
Published: May 2014

Introduction. Drusen of the optic nerve head are relatively benign and
asymptomatic. They represent retinal hyaline corpuscles resulting from
impaired axoplasmic transport of the retinal ganglion cells of optic nerve in
front of the lamina cribrosa. They are usually detected accidentally, during
a routine ophthalmologic examination. Most patients with optic disc drusen
are not aware of the deterioration of their eyesight because of the slow
progression of visual field defects. Damage in visual acuity due to optic
disc drusen is rare. Case Report. A 27-year-old female patient in the sixth
month of pregnancy visited an ophthalmologist because of a visual impairment
described as the appearance of mist and shadows over her right eye. When
first examined, her visual acuity in both eyes was 20/20. The retinal
hemorrhages framing the bottom half of the optic nerve were seen. Complete
laboratory and clinical testing as well as specific ophthalmic examinations
(photofundus, computerized visual field, optical coherence tomography, and
ultrasound) were performed to exclude systemic causes and they presented no
risk for the pregnancy. Echosonographic examination confirmed the presence of
bilateral optic nerve head drusen. Conclusion. Hemodynamic changes during
pregnancy are possible factors for the development of optical disc and
retinal hemorrhages. Since treatment of optic disc drusen is limited,
recognition of optic nerve drusen as a cause of hemorrhage during pregnancy
prevents unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Determinants of smoking and smoking cessation among health professionals in Serbia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Krstev Srmena , Marinkovic Jelena , Simic Snezana , Jovicevic Ana , Markovic-Denic Ljiljana
Published: May 2014

Background/Aim. Bearing in mind a high smoking prevalence in Serbia (34% in
adult population; men 38%, women 30%) and leading role of health
professionals in intervention and prevention, a cross-sectional study was
performed smong the representative sample of health professionals in Serbia.
The aim of the study was to identify predictors of smoking and smoking
cessation prior to the total smoking ban in November 2010. Methods. In this
nationwide study, 3,084 physicians and nurses from 4 types of institutions
and four geographical regions were selected and 2,282 included (response rate
74.0%). Data were collected using a self-administered structured
questionnaire. Standard statistical methods were used to calculate prevalence
rates, and multivariate logistic regressions to evaluate independent
predictors of smoking pattern. Risks were expressed as odds ratios (OR) which
represent approximation of relative risks of exposed persons with 95%
confidence intervals (95% CI). Results. We found a high smoking prevalence of
38.0%, the same for women and men (37.8% and 37.6%, respectively; p = 0.138),
higher among nurses (41.7%) than physicians (29.1%) (p = 0.000), as well as
among those employed in general hospitals (42.6%) and institutes of public
health (43.8%) (p = 0.000). Significantly increased risk of being an ever or
current smoker was noticed for nurses (OR = 1.75, 95% CI 1.42-2.14; and OR =
1.91, 95% CI 1.52-2.40, respectively), those employed in general hospitals
(OR = 1.37, 95% CI 1.09-1.73 and OR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.09-1.79, respectively),
and with worse self-estimated health (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.02-1.30; and OR =
1.17, 95% CI 1.02-1.34, respectively). Intentions to quit smoking or to
reduce the number of cigarettes were more frequent in women (OR = 1.51, 95%
CI 1.01-2.27) and participants who worse evaluated their health (OR = 1.74,
95% CI 1.39- 2.18). Conclusion. High smoking prevalence in health
professionals could be a barrier for the full implementation of smoking ban
in health institutions in Serbia. Smoking cessation programs at workplaces,
formal education in smoking cessation techniques, and better Law enforcement
by health administrations should be implemented.
Adaptive search techniques for problems in vehicle routing, part II: A numerical comparison
Authors: Kritzinger Stefanie , Doerner Karl , Tricoire Fabien , Hartl Richard
Published: May 2014

Research in the field of vehicle routing often focused on finding new ideas
and concepts in the development of fast and efficient algorithms for an
improved solution process. Early studies introduce static tailor-made
strategies, but trends show that algorithms with generic adaptive policies -
which emerged in the past years - are more efficient to solve complex vehicle
routing problems. In this first part of the survey, we present an overview of
recent literature dealing with adaptive or guided search techniques for
problems in vehicle routing.
HDL-C and HDL-C/ApoA-I Predict Long-Term Progression of Glycemia in Established Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Waldman Boris , Jenkins Alicia J. , Davis Timothy M.E. , Taskinen Marja-Riitta , Scott Russell , O’Connell Rachel L. , Gebski Val J. , Ng Martin K.C. , Keech Anthony C.
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE

Low HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) and small HDL particle size may directly promote hyperglycemia. We evaluated associations of HDL-C, apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), and HDL-C/apoA-I with insulin secretion, insulin resistance, HbA1c, and long-term glycemic deterioration, reflected by initiation of pharmacologic glucose control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The 5-year Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) study followed 9,795 type 2 diabetic subjects. We calculated baseline associations of fasting HDL-C, apoA-I, and HDL-C/apoA-I with HbA1c and, in those not taking exogenous insulin (n = 8,271), with estimated β-cell function (homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function [HOMA-B]) and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Among the 2,608 subjects prescribed lifestyle only, Cox proportional hazards analysis evaluated associations of HDL-C, apoA-I, and HDL-C/apoA-I with subsequent initiation of oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) or insulin.

RESULTS

Adjusted for age and sex, baseline HDL-C, apoA-I, and HDL-C/apoA-I were inversely associated with HOMA-IR (r = −0.233, −0.134, and −0.230; all P < 0.001; n = 8,271) but not related to HbA1c (all P > 0.05; n = 9,795). ApoA-I was also inversely associated with HOMA-B (r = −0.063; P = 0.002; n = 8,271) adjusted for age, sex, and HOMA-IR. Prospectively, lower baseline HDL-C and HDL-C/apoA-I levels predicted greater uptake (per 1-SD lower: hazard ratio [HR] 1.13 [CI 1.07–1.19], P < 0.001; and HR 1.16 [CI 1.10–1.23], P < 0.001, respectively) and earlier uptake (median 12.9 and 24.0 months, respectively, for quartile 1 vs. quartile 4; both P < 0.01) of OHAs and insulin, with no difference in HbA1c thresholds for initiation (P = 0.87 and P = 0.81). Controlling for HOMA-IR and triglycerides lessened both associations, but HDL-C/apoA-I remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS

HDL-C, apoA-I, and HDL-C/apoA-I were associated with concurrent insulin resistance but not HbA1c. However, lower HDL-C and HDL-C/apoA-I predicted greater and earlier need for pharmacologic glucose control.
Effects of Heat Treating Silane and Different Etching Techniques on Glass Fiber Post Push-out Bond Strength
Authors: Samimi P , Mortazavi V , Salamat F
Published: May 2014

The aims of this study were to compare two pretreatment methods of a fiber post and to evaluate the effect of heat treatment to applied silane on the push-out bond strength for different levels of root. In this in vitro study, 40 glass fiber posts were divided into five groups (n=8) according to the kind of surface treatment applied. They were then inserted into extracted and endodontically treated human canines using a self-etch resin cement (Panavia F2.0, Kuraray, Japan). Group HF+S = hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching and silane (S) application; group HF+S+WP = HF etching and heat-treated silane application and warmed posts (WP); group H2O2+S = hydrogen peroxide etching and silane application; group H2O2+S+WP = hydrogen peroxide and heat-treated-silane application and warmed post; and group C, the control group, received no pretreatment. After completion of thermal cycling (1000 cycles, 5-55°C), all specimens were cut horizontally to obtain three sections. Each section was subjected to a push-out test, and the test results were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance, post-hoc Tukey honestly significant difference test, and a paired sample t-test (α=0.05). It was found that bond strength was not statistically influenced by the kind of etching material used (p=0.224), but was significantly affected by heat treatment of applied silane (p<0.001). The interaction between these two factors was not statistically significant (p=0.142). Group HF+S+WP showed the highest bond strength (12.56±1.73 MPa) (p<0.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed the effect of the different treatments on the surface characteristics of posts. In the four pretreated groups, the bond strength decreased significantly from the coronal to the apical root canal sections (p≤0.05). The results of this study show that the use of heat-treated silane significantly enhances the push-out bond strength of the fiber posts to root. HF acid etching with heat-treated silane application led to the highest bond strength.
Evaluation of efficiency of laser systems on removal of debris and smear layer in maxillary canine root canals
Authors: Arslan Hakan , Aladag Halit , Haznerdaroglu Faruk
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study is to analyze the efficiency of different laser systems and irrigating solutions on the removal of superficial debris and smear layer created during instrumentation in root canals. Seventy two extracted human maxillary canine teeth were sectioned and the root canals were prepared. The specimens were divided randomly into equal six groups as follows: 5.25% NaOCl in group 1 (control group), 15% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for 1 min followed by 5.25% NaOCl in group 2, 25% citric acid for 1 min followed by 5.25% NaOCl in group 3 were applied into the root canals. In the other groups treated with only laser, diode laser (2 W, 10 Hz) in group 4, Er:YAG laser (1 W, 10 Hz) in group 5, and Nd:YAG laser (1 W, 10 Hz) in group 6 were applied to the root canals. Photomicrographs were taken from the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of specimens by using scanning electron microscope. Statistical analyses were performed with Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests (p = 0.05). On account of superficial debris, statistically significant differences were presented between the groups. According to the results of the study, statistically significant differences were determined between the control group and the other groups in the removal of the smear layer from the root canals (p < 0.05). Superficial debris was effectively removed by Er:YAG and diode laser. Combinations of EDTA + NaOCl and citric acid + NaOCl removed most effectively the smear layer.
In vitro Studies of a Distillate of Rectified Essential Oils on Sinonasal Components of Mucociliary Clearance
Authors: Lai Yinyan , Dilidaer D. , Chen Bei , Xu Geng , Shi Jianbo , Lee Robert J. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: May 2014

Background

Herbal remedies predate written history and continue to be used frequently for many common ailments. The essential oil mixture standardized is a phytopharmaceutical with a distillate of a mixture of rectified essential oils of eucalyptus, sweet orange, myrtle, and lemon as active ingredients used to treat respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and rhinosinusitis. We evaluated the pharmacologic effects of a distillate of rectified essential oils standardized on primary human upper respiratory epithelial cultures specifically addressing electrolyte transport, cilia beat frequency (CBF), airway surface liquid (ASL) hydration, and mucus transport velocity.

Methods

Well-differentiated primary human sinonasal epithelial cultures grown at an air–liquid interface were treated on the apical or basolateral surface with varying concentrations of a distillate of rectified essential oils standardized. Changes in CBF were determined using the Sissons-Ammons Video Analysis system while changes in chloride flux were determined using the fluorescent dye 6-methoxy-N-(3-sulfopropyl)quinolinium. ASL hydration was quantified using Texas red dextran and mucociliary transport velocity was measured using fluorescent microspheres and time lapse photography.

Results

When applied to the basolateral surface, a distillate of rectified essential oils standardized activated chloride efflux and ciliary beat in a dose-dependent fashion, increasing ASL height and accelerating mucociliary transport velocity. The ancillary apical application of a distillate of rectified essential oils standardized had minimal effects on the CBF.

Conclusion

Basolateral application of a distillate of rectified essential oils standardized stimulates both chloride efflux and cilia beat frequency resulting in a synergistic effect dramatically augmenting mucociliary transport velocity. These in vitro data support the clinical efficacy of this phytopharmaceutical in respiratory inflammatory disorders.
Histamine Type 2 Receptor Expression on Peripheral Blood Regulatory Lymphocytes in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis Treated with Specific Immunotherapy
Authors: Ciebiada Maciej , Kasztalska Karolina , Gorska-Ciebiada Malgorzata , Górski Paweł
Published: May 2014

Background

Both histamine H1- and H2-receptors (H2R) were found on regulatory T (Treg) cells; however, there is a paucity of information regarding the role of H2R in Treg function. This study aimed to investigate the effects of natural allergen stimulation and specific immunotherapy (SIT) on H2R expression in Treg cells in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods

In this prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study 41 patients with AR were screened for 1 year and treated with SIT (n = 21) or placebo (n = 20) for the next 2 years. Fifteen healthy subjects were included as a control. Subsets of Treg cells that expressed H2R we assessed annually in the blood by flow cytometry: before, at the height of the pollen season, and after, at the end of the pollen season. In addition, total nasal symptom score, the use of rescue medication, and nasal eosinophilia were evaluated.

Results

Treg cells of AR patients slightly up-regulate H2R out of the pollen season. Natural allergen stimulation results in prompt up-regulation of H2R within these cells. SIT significantly decreased the number of Treg cells with increased expression of H2R in the blood exclusively at the height of pollen season, which, however, had no impact on the expression of H2R in Treg cells. SIT improved significantly the symptom score, rescue medication use, and decreased nasal eosinophilia.

Conclusion

Natural pollen exposure results in up-regulation of H2R in Treg cells. Immunotherapy might transiently decrease the number of Treg-H2R+ cells in the blood, which may be associated with their migration to the peripheral tissues. This study was part of the clinical trial registered in www.clinicaltrials.gov Number NCT01475188.
Cigarette Smoke Promotes Eosinophilic Inflammation, Airway Remodeling, and Nasal Polyps in a Murine Polyp Model
Authors: Lee Ki-Il , Kim Dae Woo , Kim Eun Hee , Kim Jie Hye , Samivel Ramachandran , Kwon Ji Eun , Ahn Jin-Chul , Chung Young-Jun , Mo Ji-Hun
Published: May 2014

Background

Exposure to cigarette smoking (CS) is a major risk factor for airway inflammation. However, little is known about the effects of CS exposure on eosinophilic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (ERSwNPs). Histopathological and molecular studies were performed to investigate its effects using a murine model of ERSwNPs.

Methods

Mice were assigned to one of the following four groups (n = 8 for each group): control group, CS exposure (CS group), ERSwNP (ERS group), and ERSwNPs exposed to CS (ERS + CS group). Histopathological changes were investigated using various stains, including hematoxylin and eosin for inflammation and polyp-like lesions, Sirius red for eosinophils, toluidine blue for mast cells, Alcian blue for goblet cells, and Masson's trichrome stain for collagen fibers. mRNA expression of cytokines from nasal mucosae was measured. Serum I and systemic cytokine levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) 1-alpha was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The ERS + CS group showed more severe symptoms, increased the number of polyp-like lesions filtration of eosinophils, goblet cell hyperplasia, and subepithelial fibrosis, compared with the ERS group. Additionally, mRNA expressions of IL-4 and IL-17A were up-regulated in ERS + CS group and higher levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-17A, and interferon gamma from splenocytes were observed significantly in the ERS + CS group compared with the ERS group. In the ERSwNP murine model, exposure to CS enhanced the expression of VEGF and HIF-1-alpha in nasal epithelial cells.

Conclusion

Chronic exposure to CS aggravated eosinophilic inflammation and promoted airway remodeling and nasal polyp formation in a murine model of ERSwNPs. The underlying mechanism might involve up-regulated expression of VEGF and HIF-1-alpha.
A Postmortem Histological Study on Percentage Volume of Parenchyma and Stroma of the Human Parathyroid Glands
Authors: Mahbub Sabiha , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Ara Shamim , Alim Abdul
Published: May 2014

A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from January to December 2008, on post mortem parathyroid glands of 60 Bangladeshi people in different age groups. A total of 207 parathyroid glands were identified in relation to posterior border of thyroid lobes and collected from those 60 cadavers. The samples were collected from the unclaimed dead bodies within 24 hours after death that were under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine of Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. The samples were divided into three different age groups ranging from 15 to 75 years. The three groups are group A (10-30 years), group B (31-60 years) and group C (61-90 years). From each group, 20 best prepared slides were taken for examination. The percentage volume of parenchyma (glandular portion) and stroma (fibrous part with blood vessels and fat) were estimated by the point counting technique with Zeiss-I integrating eyepiece under the light microscope at low magnification. The mean SD percentage volume of parenchyma varies 64.88 2.75 to 65.90 2.33 in group A, 56.40 12.57 to 59.10 3.87 in group B and 38.80 2.77 to 41.50 2.38 in group C. In contrast, the mean SD percentage volume of stroma varies 33.50 2.27 to 34.88 2.95 in group A, 40.30 3.83 to 41.56 4.16 in group B and 58.50 2.38 to 61.20 2.77 in group C. The percentage volume of connective tissue stroma was found to increase with increasing age with simultaneous decrease in glandular parenchyma. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v5i1.18765 Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 5, No. 1: January 2014, Pages 10-13
Contraceptive Practice of Married Women: Experience from a Rural Community of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Atiqur , Rahman Md Mahfuzar , Huq Sazia , Hossain Sardar Mahmud
Published: May 2014

Bangladesh is a country having high density of population in the world. Its fertility rate ranges from 4.1 to 5.49 and life expectancy is 66years while the total fertility rate of Asia is 2.2 and life expectancy 70 years. This descriptive type of cross sectional survey was carried out among 240 married women of reproductive age from July to December, 2012 in some villages of Keranigonj, Upazila, Dhaka. 73(31%) were practicing some methods of contraception, while 167 (69%) were not using it. OCP (Oral Contraceptive Pill) was the commonest method of contraception followed by Condoms 12(5%), Injectable 12(5%), Implant 12(5%) & Tubectomy 6(3%). None was found using IUCD and Traditional method ( withdrawal, rhythm method ) and emergency contraceptive method. The use of contraceptive was more common in grand multipara (p<0.01), >35 years old ladies (p<0.05). Non users of contraceptives in this study were 167 (69%) and the major reason for the non use was intention to have more children 53(31.46%) followed by pressure from the husband 21(12.35%), prohibition by the religion 18 (10.9%) and desire for son 17 (10.11%). Among the 73 contraceptive users 38 (52%) experienced side effects with the use of contraceptives. The commonest side effects were menstrual irregularities 17(23.8%) followed by change in body weight 8(11.19%). Frequency of contraceptive use was found comparatively low among rural married women despite high level of awareness. Desire for larger family, religious concerns and fear of side effects were the main factors responsible for non users. Religious scholars must play their role in clarifying many aspects regarding contraceptives. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v5i1.18767 Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 5, No. 1: January 2014, Pages 14-18
Synthesis and characterization of porous silica and polyaniline-porous silica composite materials with high surface area
Authors: Akhtar US , Hossain MK , Miran MS , Mollah MYA
Published: May 2014

Porous silica materials were synthesized from tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) using Pluronic P123 (non-ionic triblock copolymer, EO20PO70O20) as template under acidic conditions which was then used to prepare polyaniline (PAni) and porous silica composites (PAnisilica) at a fixed molar ratio. These materials were characterized by nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm measured by Barrett-Joyner- Halenda (BJH) method and pore size distribution from desorption branch and surface area measured by the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), TEM-energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The composite maintains its structure even after the polymerization and the polymer is dispersed on the inorganic matrix. The rod-like porous silica was about 1?m to 1.5 ?m long and on an average the diameter was in the range of 300- 500 nm. The SEM and TEM images show well ordered 2d hexagonal pore, high specific surface area (850 m2g-1) and uniform pore size of ca. 6.5 nm in diameter. After incorporation of PAni inside the silica pore, framework of porous silica did not collapse and the surface area of the composite was as high as 434 m2g-1 which was 5.5 time higher than our previous report of 78.3 m2g-1. Due to shrinkage of the framework during the incorporation of aniline inside the silica, the pore diameter slightly increase to 7.5 nm but still showing Type IV isotherm and typical hysteresis loop H1 implying a uniform cylindrical pore geometry. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18847 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 1-8, 2014
Synthesis of sec.-undecylbenzene and sec.-dodecyl benzene by alkylation
Authors: Saha D , Ashaduzzaman M , Sarker M , Saha P , Siddiqui T
Published: May 2014

The title compounds were synthesized by the alkylation of benzene with olefins (undecene-1 and dodecene-1) in presence of borontrifluoride etherate and alcohols (undecan-1- ol and dodecan-1- ol) with anhydrous AlCl3. The effect of temperature, molar ratio of benzene to olefins & alcohols, amount of catalyst were studied. The highest yield was 73.6% in case of dodecene-1 and in case of undecene-1 was 70.6%. Dodecan-1-ol was found to be more reactive than undecanl-1-ol but the yields were higher in olefins than alcohols. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18848 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 9-12, 2014
Preparation and application of different size materials on the cotton yarn and investigating the effect of sizing on the tensile properties of cotton yarn
Authors: Sultana S , Haque MZ , Nur HP
Published: May 2014

Sizing of the cotton yarn is essential to reduce breakage of the yarn due to abrasion during weaving process. The sizing agent on the woven fabric after weaving needs to remove completely before the next textile production process of dyeing and finishing. So, water soluble sizing agent is easy to handle and easy to desizing for pre-treatment of woven fabric. In this work, different types of water soluble tamarind seed kernel based sizing formulations (assigned by A, B and C) were made and applied on cotton yarn to investigate the effect on the tensile properties of sized and unsized cotton yarns. Cotton yarn treated with size B formulation shows the better tensile properties than the application of size A and size C formulation. The effect of lubricant has also been investigated and shows that the addition of lubricant decreases the tensile properties of the cotton yarn. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18850 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 25-30, 2014
Suppression of dominant insect pests and yield of sesame with plant materials in different climatic conditions
Authors: Ahmed KN , Pramanik SHA , Khatun M , Hasan MR , Mohanta LC , Hoq T , Ghose SK
Published: May 2014

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an annual herb not extensively cultivated in Bangladesh. The jute hairy caterpillar, Spilarctia (=Spilosoma) obliqua (Walker) was found to attack the foliages including tender shoots of sesame in the Oilseeds Cultivation Centre of BCSIR Laboratory Campus, Rajshahi. The other pests encountered were pentatomid bugs, Dolycoris indicus (Stal) and Nezara viridula (L.),a chrysomelid beetle, Aphthona nigrilabris (Duvivier), leaf sucking coleopteran beetle and Monolepta signata (Oliv.) The insect pests encountered in the Oilseeds Cultivation Centre, Patgram, Lalmonirhat were: a pyrrhocorid bug, Dysdercus koenigii Fab. and a pentatomid bug, Piezodorus hyubneri Gmelin (Fab.). The efficacy of five plant extracts or botanicals e.g., Bara Bishkatali (Polygonum orientale L.) leaf, custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) leaf, castor (Ricinus communis L.) seed oil and sesame oil (Sesamum indicum), a mixture of Neem (Azadirachta indica L.) seed oil and sesame oil have been evaluated for their pesticide action in the suppression of dominant insect pests of sesame. The treatment of custard apple leaf extract produced significant result in pest control and crop yield next to sesame oil. Other treatments also exhibited better results in comparison to the control. The yields were 858 and 642 kg per acre in the crop fields of Lalmonirhat and Rajshahi districts respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18851 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 31-34, 2014
In vitro shoot multiplication of the biodiesel plant Jatropha curcas L. through direct organogenesis
Authors: Hassan MAKMS , Begum N , Bari LS , Jahan MAA
Published: May 2014

An efficient protocol was established for in vitro shoot multiplication of the biodiesel plant, Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) through direct organogenesis using shoot tip and nodal explants. Best shoot induction was observed on MS basal medium supplemented with 1.5 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l NAA, in which 86.2% of nodal explants responded to produce maximum number (7.2 ± 0.68) of shoots per culture. In vitro raised shoots rooted on half strength MS medium with 1.0 mg/l IAA. The survival rate of regenerated plantlets was 85%. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18854 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 41-46, 2014
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with Amaranthus dubius mart.ex thell and Gomphrena globosa L .
Authors: Hemavani C , Thippeswamy B
Published: May 2014

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are found associated with more than 80% of the plants. But most of the studies show that Amaranthaceae is non mycorrhizal. The present study states the presence of arbuscular mycorrhizal association with Amaranthus dubius Mart ex Thell and Gomphrena globosa L which belong to Amaranthaceae. The plants were screened for the examination of presence of arbuscules, vesicles in the roots and spores in the rhizosphere soil which help to know that mycorrhiza is associated with Amaranthaceae species. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i1.18857 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(1), 59-62, 2014
Prion Fragment Peptides Are Digested with Membrane Type Matrix Metalloproteinases and Acquire Enzyme Resistance through Cu2+-Binding
Authors: Kojima Aya , Konishi Motomi , Akizawa Toshifumi
Published: May 2014

Prions are the cause of neurodegenerative disease in humans and other mammals. The structural conversion of the prion protein (PrP) from a normal cellular protein (PrPC) to a protease-resistant isoform (PrPSc) is thought to relate to Cu2+ binding to histidine residues. In this study, we focused on the membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs) such as MT1-MMP and MT3-MMP, which are expressed in the brain as PrPC-degrading proteases. We synthesized 21 prion fragment peptides. Each purified peptide was individually incubated with recombinant MT1-MMP or MT3-MMP in the presence or absence of Cu2+ and the cleavage sites determined by LC-ESI-MS analysis. Recombinant MMP-7 and human serum (HS) were also tested as control. hPrP61-90, from the octapeptide-repeat region, was cleaved by HS but not by the MMPs tested here. On the other hand, hPrP92-168 from the central region was cleaved by MT1-MMP and MT3-MMP at various sites. These cleavages were inhibited by treatment with Cu2+. The C-terminal peptides had higher resistance than the central region. The data obtained from this study suggest that MT-MMPs expressed in the brain might possess PrPC-degrading activity.
Recent Theoretical Approaches to Minimal Artificial Cells
Authors: Mavelli Fabio , Altamura Emiliano , Cassidei Luigi , Stano Pasquale
Published: May 2014

Minimal artificial cells (MACs) are self-assembled chemical systems able to mimic the behavior of living cells at a minimal level, i.e. to exhibit self-maintenance, self-reproduction and the capability of evolution. The bottom-up approach to the construction of MACs is mainly based on the encapsulation of chemical reacting systems inside lipid vesicles, i.e. chemical systems enclosed (compartmentalized) by a double-layered lipid membrane. Several researchers are currently interested in synthesizing such simple cellular models for biotechnological purposes or for investigating origin of life scenarios. Within this context, the properties of lipid vesicles (e.g., their stability, permeability, growth dynamics, potential to host reactions or undergo division processes…) play a central role, in combination with the dynamics of the encapsulated chemical or biochemical networks. Thus, from a theoretical standpoint, it is very important to develop kinetic equations in order to explore first—and specify later—the conditions that allow the robust implementation of these complex chemically reacting systems, as well as their controlled reproduction. Due to being compartmentalized in small volumes, the population of reacting molecules can be very low in terms of the number of molecules and therefore their behavior becomes highly affected by stochastic effects both in the time course of reactions and in occupancy distribution among the vesicle population. In this short review we report our mathematical approaches to model artificial cell systems in this complex scenario by giving a summary of three recent simulations studies on the topic of primitive cell (protocell) systems.
Effect of Particle Orientation during Thermal Processing of Canned Peach Halves: A CFD Simulation
Authors: Dimou Adreas , Stoforos Nikolaos , Yanniotis Stavros
Published: May 2014

The objective of this work was to apply Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to study the effect of particle orientation on fluid flow, temperature evolution, as well as microbial destruction, during thermal processing of still cans filled with peach halves in sugar syrup. A still metal can with four peach halves in 20% sugar syrup was heated at 100 °C for 20 min and thereafter cooled at 20 °C. Infinite heat transfer coefficient between heating medium and external can wall was considered. Peach halves were orderly placed inside the can with the empty space originally occupied by the kernel facing, in all peaches, either towards the top or the bottom of the can. In a third situation, the can was placed horizontally. Simulations revealed differences on particle temperature profiles, as well as process F values and critical point location, based on their orientation. At their critical points, peach halves with the kernel space facing towards the top of the can heated considerably slower and cooled faster than the peaches having their kernel space facing towards the bottom of the can. The horizontal can case exhibited intermediate cooling but the fastest heating rates and the highest F process values among the three cases examined. The results of this study could be used in designing of thermal processes with optimal product quality.
First Trimester Aneuploidy Screening Markers in Women with Pre-Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Gurram Padmalatha , Benn Peter , Grady James , Prabulos Anne-Marie , Campbell Winston
Published: May 2014

Objective: To investigate whether maternal serum pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), total β human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels and nuchal translucency (NT) measurements differ in women with pre-gestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) compared to non-diabetic controls and to assess whether correction factors are needed for diabetic women in calculation of aneuploidy risks. Study Design: We performed a retrospective study of all women who underwent first trimester aneuploidy screening (11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks) from 2005 to 2011. The primary study outcome was the difference in PAPP-A, β-hCG and NT multiples of median between women with PGDM and non-diabetic women. Results: Of 6741 eligible patients, 103 patients with PGDM were using insulin and 4 patients were using oral hypoglycemic agents; the latter were excluded due to small number. There was 12% reduction of median PAPP-A (p = 0.001) and 18% reduction of median hCG (p = 0.006) in women with PGDM receiving insulin. There was no difference in NT. Conclusions: In women with PGDM receiving insulin, PAPP-A and β-hCG levels are significantly lower compared to non-diabetic women. This suggests that when calculating risks for aneuploidy, correction factors should be considered to adjust PAPP-A and β-hCG concentrations to those seen in non-diabetic women.
Aqueous Solubility and Degradation Kinetics of the Phytochemical Anticancer Thymoquinone; Probing the Effects of Solvents, pH and Light
Authors: Salmani Jumah , Asghar Sajid , Lv Huixia , Zhou Jianping
Published: May 2014

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a potent anticancer phytochemical with confirmed in vitro efficacy. Its clinical use has not yet established, and very few reports have documented its formulation. There also are no reports about the aqueous solubility and stability of this valuable drug, despite their direct correlation with the in vivo efficacy. In the current research, we have established and validated a stability-indicating HPLC method for the detection of TQ and its degradation products under different conditions. We then investigated the solubility and stability profiles of TQ in aqueous solutions. The stability study was aimed to determine the effect of pH, solvent type and light on the degradation process of TQ, along with the investigation of the kinetics of this degradation. The solubility of TQ varied in different aqueous solvents, and might be compromised due to stability issues. However, these findings confirm that the aqueous solubility is not the major obstacle for the drug formulations mainly due to the considerable water solubility (>500 μg/mL) that may be enough to exert pharmacologic effects if administered via parenteral route. Stability study results showed a very low stability profile of TQ in all the aqueous solutions with rapid degradation that varied with solvent type. The study of the degradation kinetics showed a significant effect of pH on the degradation process. The process followed first order kinetics at more acidic and alkaline pH values, and second order kinetics at pH 5–7.4, regardless of the solvent type. The results also expressed that light has a greater impact on the stability of TQ as a shorter period of exposure led to severe degradation, independent of the solution pH and solvent type. Our results also addressed some discrepancies in previously published researches regarding the formulation and quantification of TQ with suggested solutions. Overall, the current study concludes that TQ is unstable in aqueous solutions, particularly at an alkaline pH, in addition to presenting severe light sensitivity. This data indicates the inappropriateness of aqueous solutions as pharmaceutical vehicles for TQ preparations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study describing TQ aqueous solubility and stability that may lead to the development of a stable and effective TQ formulation.
Quorum Sensing Activity of a Kluyvera sp. Isolated from a Malaysian Waterfall
Authors: Yunos Nina , Tan Wen-Si , Mohamad Nur , Tan Pui-Wan , Adrian Tan-Guan-Sheng , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: May 2014

In many species of bacteria, the quorum sensing mechanism is used as a unique communication system which allows them to regulate gene expression and behavior in accordance with their population density. N-Acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) are known as diffusible autoinducer molecules involved in this communication network. This finding aimed to characterize the production of AHL of a bacterial strain ND04 isolated from a Malaysian waterfall. Strain ND04 was identified as Kluyvera sp. as confirmed by molecular analysis of its 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence. Kluyvera sp. is closely related to the Enterobacteriaceae family. Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 was used as a biosensor to detect the production of AHL by strain ND04. High resolution triple quadrupole liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of strain ND04 showed our isolate produced two AHLs which are N-(3-oxohexanoyl)homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C6 HSL) and N-3-oxo-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C8 HSL).