bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of antipsychotic drugs on nonspecific inflammation markers in the first episode of schizophrenia
Authors: Stefanovic Vesna , Mihajlovic Goran , Nenadovic Milutin , Djukic-Dejanovic Slavica , Borovcanin Milica , Trajkovic Goran
Published: March 2015

Background/Aim. Immune system disorder, including inflammation, takes a
significant place when considering still unclear etiology of schizophrenia.
The aim of this study was to determine the blood levels of nonspecific
inflammation markers in the first episode of schizophrenia and their relation
to the therapy response. Methods. In this study we determined the blood
levels of nonspecific inflammation markers: white blood cells count (WBC),
C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocytes sedimentation rate (ESR) and the
elements of differential white blood cell counts (or the leukocyte formula):
granulocytes (Gra), lymphocytes (Lym) and monocytes (Mon), in the first
episode of schizofrenia, in 78 patients hospitalized at the Clinic for
Psychiatric Disorders ?Dr Laza Lazarevic? in Belgrade. The levels were
measured at admission to the clinic, as well as after 4 weeks of
antipsychotic treatment. The Positive and negative syndrome scale for
schizophrenia (PANSS) was applied to measure the severity of psychopathology
and response to the treatment. Results. During the first episode of
schizophrenia, before initiation of antipsychotic treatment, the frequency of
abnormal values was high (? 25% of the patients) for the following
non-specific inflammation markers: WBC, CRP, ESR and Gra, in the leukocyte
formula, but dropped after 4 weeks of antipsychotic treatment at the level of
high statistical significance for WBC and Gra (p < 0.001). The ESR remained
unchanged in as many as 50% of the patients even after 4-week antipsychotic
treatment, at the level of statistical significance in the non-responders
compared to the responders (p = 0.045). Conclusion. The obtained results
indicate that in the first episode of schizophrenia the blood levels of
non-specific inflammation markers (WBS, CRP, ESR and Gra from the leukocyte
formula) were high in the subpopulation of patients with the tendency towards
normalization of inflammation parameters after a 4-week antipsychotic
treatment.
Diagnostic value of serial measurement of c-reactive protein in serum and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in drainage fluid in the detection of infectious complications and anastomotic leakage in patients with colorectal resection
Authors: Kostic Zoran , Panisic Marina , Milev Bosko , Mijuskovic Zoran , Slavkovic Damjan , Ignjatovic Mile
Published: March 2015

Background/Aim. Postoperative infectious complications are one of the most
important problems in surgical treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), being
present in up to 40% of patients. The aim of this paper was to establish the
significance of serial measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) in serum and
matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in drainage fluid for the detection of
infectious complications and anastomotic leakage (AL) in patients with
colorectal resection. Methods. CRP and MMP-9 values in serum and drainage
fluid, respectively, were measured on the first, third, fifth, and seventh
postoperative day (POD) in 150 patients with colorectal resection and primary
anastomosis. The values obtained were compared between the patients without
complications and those with surgical site and remote infections and AL.
Results. Surgical site infections (SSIs) were observed in 41 (27.3%), and
remote infections in 10 (6.7%) patients. Clinically evident AL was observed
in 15 (10%) patients. In 82% of the patients with SSIs, serum CRP value on
POD 5 exceeded 82 mg/L, with 81% specificity. AL was reported in 85% and 92%
of the patients on PODs 5 and 7, respectively, with CRP values of 77 mg/L and
90 mg/L, respectively. The specificity was 77% for POD 5 and 88% for POD 7.
All the patients with CRP values exceeding 139 mg/L on POD 5 had some of SSIs
and/or AL. The mean values of MMP-9 were not statistically different between
the group without complications (n = 99) and the group with AL (n = 15).
Conclusion. Serial measurement of CRP is recommended for screening of
infectious complications of colorectal resection. Patients with CRP values
above 139 mg/L on POD 5 cannot be discharged from hospital, and require an
intensive search for infectious complications, particularly AL. MMP-9
measurement in drainage fluid is not relevant in the detection of AL in
patients with colorectal resection.
Parametric Sensitivity Analysis of Factors Affecting Sound Transmission Loss of Multi-Layered Building Elements Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Garg Naveen , Kumar Anil , Maji Sagar
Published: March 2015

The paper presents application of Taguchi method in optimizing the sound transmission loss through sandwich gypsum constructions and those comprising of masonry concrete blocks and gypsum boards in order to investigate the relative influence of the various parameters affecting the sound transmission loss. The application of Taguchi method for optimizing sound transmission loss has been rarely reported. The present work uses the results analytically predicted on “Insul” software for various sandwich material configurations as desired by each experimental run in an L8 orthogonal array. The relative importance of the parameters on single-number rating, Rw (C, Ctr) is evaluated in terms of percentage contribution using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The ANOVA method reveals that type of studs, steel stud frame and number of gypsum layers attached are the key factors controlling the sound transmission loss characteristics of sandwich multi-layered constructions.
Diagnostics of Synchronous Motor Based on Analysis of Acoustic Signals with the use of Line Spectral Frequencies and K-nearest Neighbor Classifier
Authors: Glowacz Adam
Published: March 2015

In industrial processes electrical motors are serviced after a specific number of hours, even if there is a need for service. This led to the development of early fault diagnostic methods. Paper presents early fault diagnostic method of synchronous motor. This method uses acoustic signals generated by synchronous motor. Plan of study of acoustic signal of synchronous motor was proposed. Two conditions of synchronous motor were analyzed. Studies were carried out for methods of data processing: Line Spectral Frequencies and K-Nearest Neighbor classifier with Minkowski distance. Condition monitoring is useful to protect electric motors and mining equipment. In the future, these studies can be used in other electrical devices.
Statistical Analysis of the Equivalent Noise Level
Authors: Batko Wojciech , Przysucha Bartosz
Published: March 2015

The authors focus their attention on the analysis of the probability density function of the equivalent noise level, in the context of a determination of the uncertainty of the obtained results in regard to the control of environmental acoustic hazards. In so doing, they discuss problems of correctness in the applicability of the classical normal distribution for the estimation of the expected interval value of the equivalent sound level. The authors also provide a set of procedures with respect to its derivation, based upon an assumption of the determined distribution of the measurement results. The obtained results then create the plane for the correct uncertainty calculation of the results of the determined controlled environmental acoustic hazard coefficient.
Auditory Display Applied to Research in Music and Acoustics
Authors: Kostek Bożena
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a relationship between Auditory Display (AD) and the domains of music and acoustics. First, some basic notions of the Auditory Display area are shortly outlined. Then, the research trends and system solutions within the fields of music technology, music information retrieval and music recommendation and acoustics that are within the scope of AD are discussed. Finally, an example of AD solution based on gaze tracking that may facilitate music annotation process is shown. The paper concludes with a few remarks about directions for further research in the domains discussed.
Detection Range of Intercept Sonar for CWFM Signals
Authors: Marszal Jacek , Salamon Roman
Published: March 2015

Stealth in military sonars applications may be ensured through the use of low power signals making them difficult to intercept by the enemy. In recent years, silent sonar design has been investigated by the Department of Marine Electronic Systems of the Gdansk University of Technology. This article provides an analysis of how an intercept sonar operated by the enemy can detect silent sonar signals. To that end a theoretical intercept sonar model was developed with formulas that can numerically determine the intercept ranges of silent sonar sounding signals. This was tested for a variety of applications and water salinities. Because they are also presented in charts, the results can be used to compare the intercept ranges of silent sonar and traditional pulse sonar.
Variable Ratio Sample Rate Conversion Based on Fractional Delay Filter
Authors: Blok Marek , Drózda Piotr
Published: March 2015

In this paper a sample rate conversion algorithm which allows for continuously changing resampling ratio has been presented. The proposed implementation is based on a variable fractional delay filter which is implemented by means of a Farrow structure. Coefficients of this structure are computed on the basis of fractional delay filters which are designed using the offset window method. The proposed approach allows us to freely change the instantaneous resampling ratio during processing. Using such an algorithm we can simulate recording of audio on magnetic tape with nonuniform velocity as well as remove such distortions. We have demonstrated capabilities of the proposed approach based on the example of speech signal processing with a resampling ratio which was computed on the basis of estimated fundamental frequency of voiced speech segments.
A Numerical Approach to Calculate the Radiation Efficiency of Baffled Planar Structures Using the Far Field
Authors: González-Montenegro Mario A. , Jordan Roberto , Lenzi Arcanjo , Arenas Jorge P.
Published: March 2015

A numerical method is developed for estimating the acoustic power of any baffled planar structure, which is vibrating with arbitrary surface velocity profile. It is well known that this parameter may be calculated with good accuracy using near field data, in terms of an impedance matrix, which is generated by the discretization of the vibrating surface into a number of elementary radiators. Thus, the sound pressure field on the structure surface can be determined by a combination of the matrix and the volume velocity vector. Then, the sound power can be estimated through integration of the acoustic intensity over a closed surface. On the other hand, few works exist in which the calculation is done in the far field from near field data by the use of radiation matrices, possibly because the numerical integration becomes complicated and expensive due to large variations of directivity of the source. In this work a different approach is used, based in the so-called Propagating Matrix, which is useful for calculating the sound pressure of an arbitrary number of points into free space, and it can be employed to estimate the sound power by integrating over a finite number of pressure points over a hemispherical surface surrounding the vibrating structure. Through numerical analysis, the advantages/disadvantages of the current method are investigated, when compared with numerical methods based on near field data. A flexible rectangular baffled panel is considered, where the normal velocity profile is previously calculated using a commercial finite element software. However, the method can easily be extended to any arbitrary shape. Good results are obtained in the low frequency range showing high computational performance of the method. Moreover, strategies are proposed to improve the performance of the method in terms of both computational cost and speed.
Influence of the Inter Teeth Volumes on the Noise Generation in External Gear Pumps
Authors: Fiebig Wiesław
Published: March 2015

The paper shows the new method for noise reduction in external gear pumps based on the analysis of the pressure in inter teeth volumes. The simulation model and measurement results of pressure changes in the inter teeth volume has been presented. Based on simulation results an additional volume has been obtained, which is connected to the inter teeth volume (decompression filter volume). Due this additional volume the build down processes in the pump are longer and the pressure overdue in the inter teeth volumes are smaller. This leads to the reduction of the dynamical excitation forces inside the pump and noise, especially in the higher frequency rangeI.
Simultaneous Calibration of Multiple Microphones for Both Phase and Amplitude in an Impedance Tube
Authors: Tóth Péter , Schram Christophe
Published: March 2015

This paper presents and compares microphone calibration methods for the simultaneous calibration of small electret microphones in a wave guide. The microphones are simultaneously calibrated to a reference microphone both in amplitude and phase. The calibration procedure is formulated on the basis of the damped plane wave propagation equation, from which the acoustics field along the wave guide is predicted, using several reference measurements. Different calibration models are presented and the methods were found to be sensitive to the formulation, as well as to the number of free parameters used during the reconstruction of the wave-field. The wave guide model based on five free parameters was found to be the preferred method for this type of calibration procedure.
Multi-Modal Acoustic Flow Decomposition Examined in a Hard Walled Cylindrical Duct
Authors: Weyna Stefan , Mickiewicz Witold
Published: March 2015

Flow fields could be of great interest in the study of sound propagation in aeroengines. For ducts with rigid boundaries, the fluid-resonant category may contribute significantly to unwanted noise. An understanding of the multi-modal propagation of acoustic waves in ducts is of practical interest for use in the control of noise in, for example, aero-engines, automotive exhaust and heating or ventilation systems. The purpose of our experiments was to test the acoustic energy transmission of duct modes based on studies carried out by the sound intensity technique. Sound intensity patterns in circular duct are discussed of modal energy analysis with particular reference to proper orthogonal decomposition and dynamic mode decomposition. The authors try to justify some advantages of the sound intensity experimental research in this area. In the paper, the wide-band sound signal propagated from source approximated with loudspeaker in hard-walled duct is imaged using a sound intensity - based approach. For a simple duct geometry, the sound intensity field is examined visually and by performing a modal decomposition greater insight into the acoustic structures is obtained. The image of sound intensity fields below and above “cut-off” frequency region are found to compare acoustic modes which might resonate in duct.
In Memoriam Professor Jerzy Sadowski 1924-2014
Authors: Szudrowicz Barbara
Published: March 2015

Professor Jerzy Sadowski – outstanding Polish scientist, a specialist in acoustics – construction, industrial, architectural and environmental – passed away on 28th July 2014. Professor Jerzy Sadowski was born on 18th December 1924 in Augustów, in northeastern Poland. In 1946 he commenced studies at the Gdańsk University of Technology – initially at the Faculty of Architecture, to switch later to the Faculty of Electrical Engineering. The life of Jerzy Sadowski as a student was as complicated as the post-war history of Poland. Due to his involvement in an activity of illegal student organization, he was expelled from the university in 1949, with a ban on any further tertiary education. The ban had been lifted after a certain time which allowed him to recommence further studies, this time at the Warsaw University of Technology the Faculty of Communications, where in 1952 he obtained the diploma and title of Master of Science and Engineer. He received a lot of help from Professor Ignacy Malecki, the nestor of Polish acoustics. This certainly contributed to kindling the young engineer’s interest in acoustics, as a field of both knowledge and very important practical applications.
Dolphin-Inspired Target Detection for Sonar and Radar
Authors: Leighton Timothy , White Paul
Published: March 2015

Gas bubbles in the ocean are produced by breaking waves, rainfall, methane seeps, exsolution, and a range of biological processes including decomposition, photosynthesis, respiration and digestion. However one biological process that produces particularly dense clouds of large bubbles, is bubble netting. This is practiced by several species of cetacean. Given their propensity to use acoustics, and the powerful acoustical attenuation and scattering that bubbles can cause, the relationship between sound and bub-ble nets is intriguing. It has been postulated that humpback whales produce ‘walls of sound’ at audio frequencies in their bubble nets, trapping prey. Dolphins, on the other hand, use high frequency acous-tics for echolocation. This begs the question of whether, in producing bubble nets, they are generating echolocation clutter that potentially helps prey avoid detection (as their bubble nets would do with man-made sonar), or whether they have developed sonar techniques to detect prey within such bubble nets and distinguish it from clutter. Possible sonar schemes that could detect targets in bubble clouds are proposed, and shown to work both in the laboratory and at sea. Following this, similar radar schemes are proposed for the detection of buried explosives and catastrophe victims, and successful laboratory tests are undertaken.
Electric Vehicles and Urban Noise Control Policies
Authors: Maffei Luigi , Masullo Massimiliano
Published: March 2015

Limited Traffic Zone (LTZ) is a planning strategy that is more and more adopted by municipalities in Europe to improve their environmental conditions. It consists in the prohibition for traditional vehicles to circulate in specific areas. Although the main aim is to tackle air pollution problems, positive effects are registered in terms of reduction of noise annoyance and in terms of improved “quality of life” if specific conditions are respected. On the other side under the drive of the global market, the number of circulating electric vehicles in urban sites is also increasing. In the next years we expect to experience a new and not well-known urban soundscape.

In this paper is presented an overview of recent urban projects and policies that deal with noise control and how these experiences will match into the next years with the sound characteristics of new electric vehicles for private and public transportation.
Experiments and FE Analyses on Airborne Sound Properties of Composite Structural Insulated Panels
Authors: Wawrzynowicz Adam , Krzaczek Marek , Tejchman Jacek
Published: March 2015

Airborne acoustic properties of composite structural insulated panels CSIPs composed of fibre-magnesium-cement facesheets and expanded polystyrene core were studied. The sound reduction ratings were measured experimentally in an acoustic test laboratory composed of two reverberation chambers. The numerical finite element (FEM) model of an acoustic laboratory available in ABAQUS was used and verified with experimental results. Steady-state and transient FE analyses were performed. The 2D and 3D modelling FE results were compared. Different panel core modifications were numerically tested in order to improve the airborne sound insulation of CSIPs.
Simulated Sound-Fields in a Multi-Configurable Auditorium
Authors: Bustamante Pedro , Girón Sara , Zamarreño Teófilo
Published: March 2015

In this work, simulation techniques have been implemented to study the sound fields of a multi-configurable performance enclosure by creating computer acoustic 3D-models for each room configuration. The digital models have been tuned by means of an iterative fitting procedure that uses the reverberation times measured on site for unoccupied conditions with the orchestra shell on the stage. The initial virtual acoustic model is validated by comparing the other monaural and binaural acoustic parameters measured in the room in terms of their perception differential threshold. The procedure is applied to the Maestranza Theatre of Seville, built for the Universal Exhibition in 1992. The spatial distribution of the acoustic parameters in the audience area of the venue by measured parameters and simulation mappings enables the establishment of three zones of acoustic comfort, and are corroborated by the values of the Ando-Beranek function which provide a global quality coefficient of each zone.
Acoustical Analysis of Enclosure as Initial Approach to Vehicle Induced Noise Analysis Comparatevely Using STFT and Wavelets
Authors: Błazejewski Andrzej , Kozioł Piotr , Łuczak Maciej
Published: March 2015

It is assumed in the paper that the signals in the enclosure in a transient period are similar to a noise induced by vehicles, tracks, cars, etc. passing by. The components of such signals usually points out specific dynamic processes running during the observation or measurements. In order to choose the best method of analysis of these phenomena, an acoustic field in a closed space with a sound source inside is created. Acoustic modes of this space influence the sound field. Analytically, the modal analyses describe the above mentioned phenomena. The experimental measurements were conducted in the room that might comprise the closed space with known boundary conditions and the sound source Brüel & Kjær Omni-directional type 4292 inside. To record sound signals before the field's steady state was reached, the microphone type 4349 and the 4-channel frontend 3590 had been used. The obtained signals have been analysed by using two approaches, i.e. Fourier and the wavelet analysis, with the emphasis on their efficiency and the capability to recognise important details of the signal. The results obtained for the enclosure might lead to the formulation of a methodology for an extended investigation of a rail track or vehicles dynamics.
Design of Acoustic Tubes Array and Application to Measuring Acoustic Loads in Supersonic Airflow
Authors: Wei Long , Li Min , Fu Qiang , Fan Yue , Yang Debin
Published: March 2015

In the acoustic fatigue experiment for hypersonic vehicle in simulated harsh service environment on ground, acoustic loads on the surface of test pieces of the vehicle need to be measured. However, for the normal microphones without high temperature resistance ability, the near field sound measurement cannot be achieved. In this work, on the basis of previous researches, an acoustic tubes array is designed to achieve the near field measurement of acoustic loads on the surface of the test piece in the supersonic airflow with high temperature achieved by coherent jet oxygen lance. Firstly, the process of designing this acoustic tubes array is introduced. Secondly, the equality of phase differences at the front and at the end of the tubes is stated and proved using a phase differences test with an acoustic tubes array whose design is presented in this text; therefore, the phase differences of signals acquired by microphones can be directly applied to beamforming algorithm to determine the acoustic load source. Finally, using above mentioned acoustic tubes array, measurement of acoustic load, with and without a test piece in the supersonic airflow made by the coherent jet oxygen lance, is conducted respectively, and the measurements results are analyzed.
Histomorphometric Study of the Glomeruli of the Kidney in Bangladeshi Population
Authors: Johora Fatema , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Shahriah Sunjida , Ahmed Rukshana , Ara Shamim
Published: March 2015

Background: Controversies still prevail on glomerular changes of kidney whether due to normal aging or its association with diseases Objective: The aim of the present study was to see the variation in number and size of the glomeruli of kidney with increasing age in a Bangladeshi population based on autopsy. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was done in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from July 2008 to June 2009, based on collection of 140 post mortem human kidneys collected from 70 unclaimed dead bodies from the morgue. All the samples were divided into three age-groups: 10-19 years, 20-39 years and 40-59 years. Histological slides were prepared by using routine Harris Haematoxylin and Eosin (H & E) stain. The number of glomeruli was measured by point counting technique, while the size (diameter) was measured by using ocular and stage micrometer. Results: The mean ± SE number of glomeruli per sq. mm found in the right and left kidney were 8.45±0.52 and 8.67±0.80 in group 10-19 years, 9.90±0.42 and 9.92±0.47 in 20-39 years, and 8.52±0.18 and 8.55±0.16 in 40-59 years respectively. Besides, the size (mean ± SE diameter) of glomeruli was found in the right and left kidney were 43.96±3.01ìm and 143.92±2.90ìm in group 10-19 years, 153.69±5.18ìm and 153.61±5.24ìm in 20-39 years, and 140.48±0.95ìm and 140.78±0.88ìm in 40-59 years respectively. Conclusion: No difference was found in number and size of glomeruli between right and left kidney in any group. Similarly, no difference was also evident among different age groups. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22788 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 11-16
Effect of Physical Exercise on Autonomic Nerve Function in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Tenzina Karma , Begum Noorzahan , Ferdousi Sultana
Published: March 2015

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be associated with autonomic nerve dysfunction. However, moderate to vigorous physical exercise cause improvement of this nerve function. Objective: To observe the effect of moderate physical exercise on the autonomic nerve activity by analysis of HRV in patients with Irritable bowel syndrome. Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka in 2013. For this purpose, 77 male patients aged 20-50 years with IBS were included in the study. They were subdivided into IBS-D (24 patients), IBS-C (26 patients) and IBS-A (27 patients) and were selected from the OPD, Gastroenterology, BSMMU. 28 apparently healthy male were studied as control. HRV parameters were recorded prior to onset of physical exercise and after completion of 3 months of brisk walking. For assessing autonomic nerve function, some time domain measures of HRV were recorded by Polyrite D. ANOVA, Independent sample t-test and paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: The pre-exercise values of mean R-R interval, Max/Min ratio, SDNN,RMSSD, NN50%, PNN50% were significantly(p<0.05) lower and mean heart rate was significantly (p<0.05) higher in all IBS patients compared to control. The post exercise data showed mean HR was significantly decreased in IBS-A and SDNN & RMSSD were significantly increased in IBS-C and IBS-A. Conclusion: This study concluded that parasympathetic activity decreased in patients with IBS, which was improved after regular moderate physical exercise of 3 months. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22790 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 17-21
Protective Effect of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and Its Combination with Propranolol in Cardiotoxic Rats
Authors: Naz Farah , Jahan Nasim , Sultana Nayma
Published: March 2015

Background: Cardiotoxicity (CT) can be developed due to prolonged use of higher doses of some drugs, exposure to some chemicals, toxins or infectious agents and also by some disease conditions. Natural plant foods such as peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) may have free radical scavenging activity, thereby can be used for the prevention and management of heart disease. Objective: To observe the protective effect of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and its combined action with propranolol on histological changes in isoproterenol induced cardiotoxic rats. Method: This experimental study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka in 2012. For this purpose, 20 Wistar albino rats, age 85- 100 days, weighing 120 to 150g (initial body weight) were included in the peanut treated group. They were sub-divided into CT-ISO-P (Cardiotoxic group with isoproterenol after peanut treatment) and CT-ISO-C (Cardiotoxic group with isoproterenol after combined treatment of peanut and propranolol). Age and weight matched 30 Wistar albino rats without any peanut supplementation were taken and sub-divided into three sub-groups, BC (Baseline control), CT-ISO (Cardiotoxic group with isoproterenol) and CT-ISO-PRO (Cardiotoxic group with isoproterenol after propranolol treatment). Each sub-group consisted of 10 rats. After taking final body weight all the rats were sacrificed on 22nd day. The heart was removed and preserved in 10% formalin for histological processing. To find out the histopathological changes of heart tissue, histological slides were prepared and were observed under microscope in the Department of Pathology, SSMC. Histological findings were categorized by scoring as mild, moderate and severe histological changes. The statistical analysis was done by one way ANOVA and Bonferroni test as applicable. Result: In this study, percent change from initial body weight to final body weight was significantly (p<0.01) lower both in CT-ISO-P and CT-ISO-C as compared to that of BC. Again, histological score was significantly (p<0.01) higher in CT-ISO in comparison to that of BC. Moreover, these scores were significantly lower in CTISO- PRO (p<0.01), CT-ISO-P (p<0.05) and CT-ISO-C (p<0.05) in comparison to that of CT-ISO. Similarly, this score was significantly (p<0.01) lower in CT-ISO-C when compared to that of CT-ISO-P. Conclusion: The present study revealed that peanut can preserve almost normal histological architecture of heart tissue in isoproterenol induced cardiotoxic rats. However, the combined therapy of peanut with propranolol showed synergistic effect on preventing histological changes in heart tissue. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22792 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 22-30
Health Problems among Women Building Construction Workers
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Ferdousi Jannatul , Shahidullah Md
Published: March 2015

Back ground: Construction industry is one of the stable growing industries world over, including Bangladesh. In Dhaka city there are many construction sites, where workers are exposed to hazardous condition, specially the female workers. Throughout the world, over 90% of construction workers are male. In some developing countries, the proportion of women is higher. In Bangladesh their number is increasing day by day. Objective: To explore the health problems among the women building construction workers Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 134 female construction workers. Data was collected through face to face interview by using prefixed questionnaire. The study was conducted from September 2011 to December 2012 in the Department of Community medicine, Dhaka National Medical College, Dhaka. The subjects were selected from different building construction sites of old Dhaka city. Results: It was observed that among 134 respondents, majority 96(71.6%) of the women construction worker were brick breaker and 38(28.3%) were weight carrier. Their mean age was 38.29±6.9 years. Most workers 110 (82.1%) had different types of skin problem. The proportion of skin problems was found to be high among the weight carrier and the difference was statistically highly significant (pOE .001). 89(66.5%) respondents had urinary tract infection, 66(49.3%) had constipation and 24(17.9%) complaint uterine prolapse. Among the total respondents 68(58.2%) complain of backache. The workers who complain of backache, 52(54.1%) were brick breaker and 16(42.1%) were weight carrier. 79 (58.9%) respondents used personal protective equipments, among them 61(77.2%) used self made hand gloves and 38(48.1%) used folded towel to carry weight. Besides of the total respondents 117(87.3%) complain of different types of respiratory problem. Conclusion: The study concludes that different types of skin diseases are present among female construction workers that might be attributable to exposure to hot humid working environment. Besides pain full micturation, uterine prolapse, low backache and respiratory problem were found among them which might need special attention. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22793 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 31-36
Autonomic Dysfunction in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Jahan Choudhury Rifat , Begum Shelina , Ferdousi Sultana , Uddin Md Moyeen
Published: March 2015

Background: Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity is a major problem in patients suffering from depression as greater CV mortality is found in cardiac patients with depression. Objective: To assess cardiac autonomic nerve activity by power spectral analysis of heart rate variability in patients with Major Depressive disorder. Methods: This case control study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Shahbag, Dhaka during 2011. Sixty patients of both sexes with Major Depressive disorder (MDD) aged 20-50 years were enrolled. The patients were selected from the Department of Psychiatry in Bangabandhu Sheik Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Thirty drug naive MDD patients and thirty medicated MDD patients were compared with 30 healthy control and also between them. The HRV parameters were recorded by 4 active channels, RMS Polyrite-D. For statistical analysis independent sample t-test test was used. Results: LF norm and LF/HF were significantly higher and Total power, HF power, HF norm were significantly lower in both drug naive and medicated MDD patients in comparison with those of healthy control. Conclusion: Autonomic nerve dysfunction involved both the drug naive and medicated MDD patients which was associated with higher sympathetic activity and reduced vagal modulation of the heart and sympathovagal imbalance. Antidepressent drug treatment did not have any effect on autonomic dysfunction. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22794 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 37-41
Neuro-Muscular Control of Coordinated and Effective Movements: Revisiting Modular Concepts in the CNS
Authors: Mahato Niladri Kumar
Published: March 2015

Neurophysiologic analysis of motor behavior has become one of the prime research areas in the domain of Physiology and hence it has seen tremendous development integrated research in this field over the years. This short review discusses the broad approaches which favors to understand effective neural control of motor behavior. The focus of this review is to recognize the gradual evolution of basic ideas regarding execution of coordinated and effective movements. The integrated roles of the spinal cord, the cerebellum and the motor cortex in context of voluntary movements have been delineated with citation of important research observations made in the field of motor control. Internet database related to human motor behavior studies were extensively searched to map the chronological development of important research methods and newer findings in this field. The span of the text ranges from the development of the idea of Motor Primitives to Brain-Machine Interfaces. It is observed that several basic neural modules are preserved through ontogeny and phylogeny. Different combination of hierarchical modular functioning provides a wide range of plasticity required for coordinated and effective skillful movements. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i1.22795 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, June; 9(1): 42-47
Effect of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) on Fasting Blood Glucose and HbA1c in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Male Rats
Authors: Akter Fatema , Jahan Nasim , Sultana Nayma
Published: March 2015

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders with micro and macrovascular complications which are the major causes of morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. Peanut due to its anti-oxidant property can reduce blood glucose level and may reduce the risk of diabetes. Objective: To observe the anti-diabetic effects of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in alloxaninduced diabetic male rats. Method: This experimental study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC), Dhaka in 2013. For this purpose, 15 wistar albino male rats, aged 90-120 days, weighing 160-200 g (initial body weight) were included in the experimental group (DG-A-P). Age and weight matched 20 wistar albino rats without peanut supplementation was taken as control and divided into (BC and DC-A) . All groups of animals received basal diet for 21 consecutive days. In addition to basal diet, animals of DC-A received alloxan intraperitoneally only on the first day of the study. Moreover, animals of DG-A-P also received peanut extract for 21 consecutive days. After 16 hours of fasting blood samples were collected from tail vein of all rats on day-1 and day- 3. After taking final body weight all the rats were sacrificed on 22nd day. Their pancreas was removed and weighed. To observe glycemic control serum blood glucose and blood HbA1c levels were measured by usual laboratory technique. ANOVA, independent t-test and paired t-test were used for statistical analysis. Result: The % change of body weight was significantly (p<0.001) lower in DC-A in comparison to that of BC. The weight of pancreas was significantly lower in DC-A (p<0.001) and DG-A-P (p<0.05) when compared to that BC, whereas this level was significantly higher (p<0.001) in DG-A-P than that of DC-A. The mean fasting blood glucose level on day-3 was significantly (p<0.001) higher in DC-A and DG-A-P in comparison to that of BC. Then this level was significantly (p<0.001) lower in DG-A-P in comparison to that of DC-A on day-22. Moreover, significantly higher levels of HbA1c were observed in DC-A (p<0.001) and DG-A-P (p<0.05) in comparison to those of BC. Again, significantly (p<0.001) lower level of blood HbA1c were observed in DG-A-P than those of DC-A. Conclusion: From this study, it can be concluded that peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) has anti-diabetic effect by reducing fasting blood glucose, HbA1c levels. This anti-diabetic effect may be due to its high MUFA content and anti-oxidant property. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22796 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 48-53
Fasting Insulin in Essential Hypertension
Authors: Sinha Susmita , Akhter Qazi Shamima , Akhter Qazi Farzana , Tasnim Masuma , Rahman Farhana
Published: March 2015

Background: An association between essential hypertension and defective insulin secretion has been identified. Objective: To estimate fasting serum insulin level in adult male with essential hypertension to observe its relationship to hypertension. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from July 2012 to June 2013. A total number of one hundred fifty male subjects were selected with age ranging from 25 to 45 years. Seventy five male essential hypertensive were enrolled from Out- patient Department of Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka. Age matched seventy five apparently healthy males were studied as control. Fasting serum insulin level was measured by ELISA method and fasting blood glucose by glucose oxidase method. For statistical analyses, unpaired Students t and Pearsons correlation coefficient (r) tests were performed. Results: Fasting serum insulin level was significantly (P<0.001) higher in essential hypertensive male patients than normotensive subjects. Fasting serum insulin level shows significant positive correlation with systolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Conclusion: This study reveals that essential hypertension has positive and significant relationship with fasting serum insulin level. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22797 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 54-58
Acute Effect of Cigarette Smoking on HRV in Current Cigarette Smokers
Authors: Ferdous Mehboba , Ferdousi Sultana
Published: March 2015

Background:Cigarette smoking induced increased sympathetic activity is one of the major independent risk factor for cardiac morbidity and mortality. Objective:To assess acute effects of smoking on neuro cardiovascular regulation by analysis of time domain measures of HRV in current regular healthy male cigarette smoker. Methods:This comparative analytical study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Shahbag, Dhaka from July 2011 to June 2012. 120 apparently healthy male current regular cigarette smoker aged 20-55 years were participated in the study group. Age and BMI matched 70 apparently healthy male non smoker subjects were studied as control. To observe the acute effects data were recorded 5 and 30 min after finishing a cigarette. Time domain measures of HRV were recorded by a RMS digital polyrite D. Statistical analysis was done by independent sample t test and paired sample t test. Results: Resting pulse rate, SBP, DBP, mean heart rate were significantly higher (p<0.001) and mean R-R interval, SDNN, RMSSD and total power were significantly lower (p<0.001) in all smokers in comparison to those of healthy control.In addition, all time domain parameters were significantly decreased from their corresponding baseline value just 5 minutes after smoking and returned close to their baseline value after 30 minutes of smoking but it remained significantly lower than control value. Conclusion: The result of this study concludes that cigarette smoking had acute effect on cardiac autonomic function causing depressed vagal activity and overbalance of sympathetic function. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22798 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 59-64
Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Exercise Tolerance in Patients with COPD
Authors: Ahmed Mohammad Nesar Uddin , Begum Shelina , Ali Taskina
Published: March 2015

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is known to be therapeutically useful for COPD patients. Objective: To evaluate the effects of combination of breathing exercises (pursed lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing) and lower extremity endurance training (LEET) as part of PR program on six minute walk distance (6MWD), on oxygen saturation (SpO2%), on the level of dyspnea and fatigue in patients with moderate stable COPD. Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, BSMMU, Dhaka from July 2010 to June 2011 on 116 male stable moderate COPD patients aged 50 to 65 years. They were enrolled from the out patient department (OPD) of the Department of Medicine of BSMMU and NIDCH Dhaka. 56 patients without PR constituted control group and experimental group included 60 patients intervened with PR. The experimental patients were advised to perform the PR program for 30 minutes duration per session at home twice daily, for consecutive 60 days along with the standard drug treatment of COPD. The control patients were advised to continue their standard drug treatment alone for consecutive 60 days. For the assessment of exercise tolerance, 6MWD, SpO2%, the level of dyspnea and fatigue of all subjects were recorded on day 0 and day 60 for both the groups. SpO2% was recorded by portable Pulse Oximeter and the level of dyspnea as well as fatigue were recorded by Modified Borg Scale. Statistical analysis was done by independent sample t test and paired sample t test. Results: Significant improvement were observed in 6MWD, SpO2%, the level of dyspnea and fatigue in patients who performed PR program. In addition, significant improvement in these parameters were observed after completing PR program compared to the beginning of the intervention. Conclusion: The study concludes that regular exercise of all components of PR program significantly improve exercise tolerance in COPD patients DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22799 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 65-71
Effect of Aging on Short Term Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Akhter Qazi Farzana , Akhter Qazi Shamima , Rohman Farhana , Sinha Susmita , Ferdousi Sybilla
Published: March 2015

Background: Heart rate variability has been considered as an indicator of autonomic nerve function status. Few works have been done to assess the heart rate variability in normal healthy subjects in different countries. Objectives: To assess the cardiac autonomic nerve function status in healthy Bangladeshi population of different age groups by analyzing time domain measures of Heart Rate Variability. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from the period of July 2012 to June 2013. For this purpose, a total number of 180 healthy subjects were selected with the age ranging from 15-60 years of both sexes. All the study subjects were divided into 3 different groups according to age (Control 15-30 years; middle age 31-45 years; older age 46-60 years). Each group included 60 subjects of which 30 were male and 30 were female. The subjects were selected from different areas of Dhaka city by personal contacts. HRV parameters were recorded by a 4 active channels, RMS Polyrite-D-2 machine For statistical analysis, one way ANOVA, unpaired Students t-test and Pearsons correlation coefficient test were performed. as applicable. Results: Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were significantly (p<0.001) higher in older group in comparison to control & middle age group. Again RR interval and RMSSD (p<0.001), were significantly lower in older age group (p<0.05) compared to control & also to middle age group. But HR was found significantly higher (p<0.05)in both middle and older subjects than control and also in older (p<0.05) compared to middle age. Correlation analysis showed moderate negative correlation of mean R-R with age in middle age whereas significant negative correlation for RMSSD both in middle and older age subjects. Conclusion: In this study, markedly decreased cardiac parasympathetic function were found with aging process. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsp.v9i2.22801 Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2014, December; 9(2): 78-82