bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid non-genomic regulation of Ca2+ signals and insulin secretion by PPARα ligands in mouse pancreatic islets of Langerhans
Authors: Ropero Ana B , Juan-Picó Pablo , Rafacho Alex , Fuentes Esther , Bermúdez-Silva F Javier , Roche Enrique , Quesada Ivan , de Fonseca Fernando Rodríguez , Nadal Angel
Published: November 2008

PPARα is a ligand-activated transcription factor belonging to the nuclear receptor superfamily. PPARα is involved in the regulation of in vivo triglyceride levels, presumably through its effects on fatty acid and lipoprotein metabolism. Some nuclear receptors have been involved in rapid effects mediated by non-genomic mechanisms. In this paper, we report the rapid non-genomic effects of PPARα ligands on the intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and secretion of insulin in freshly isolated mouse islets of Langerhans. The hypolipidemic fibrate PPARα agonist WY-14 643 decreased the glucose-induced calcium oscillations in intact islets. This effect was mimicked by the synthetic agonist GW7647 and the endogenous agonist oleylethanolamide. The WY-14 643 action was rapid in onset (5 min) and was still produced in the presence of protein and mRNA synthesis inhibitors, cycloheximide, and actinomycin-d. This suggests that it is independent of gene transcription. In addition, WY-14 623 impaired mitochondrial function, increased ROS formation and decreased insulin release. PPARα is present in β-cells, mainly in the cytosol and nucleus, with a small subpopulation localized in the plasma membrane. However, the presence of the PPARα ligand effects in mice bearing a disrupted Pparα gene raises the possibility that the rapid effects of the agonists in pancreatic β-cells are independent of the receptor. We conclude that PPARα agonists produce a decrease in glucose-induced [Ca2+]i signals and insulin secretion in β-cells through a rapid, non-genomic mechanism.
Effects of Liquid and Gas Flow Rates on the Performance of a Fluidized Bed Photocatalytic Reactor
Authors: Dong Shuangshi , Zhou Dandan , Bi Xiaotao T
Published: November 2008

Titanium dioxide was immobilized onto spherical activated carbon particles via the sol-gel coating method. The photo-catalyst, annealed at 500 °C, was found to posses the highest activity according to the results of a bench-scale test. The photocatalytic performance of the immobilized photocatalyst was studied in a three-phase fluidized bed photoreactor, with the use of phenol as the model pollutant. Effects of both liquid and air flow rates on the phenol degradation rate were examined. The experimental results showed that the increase of liquid and air flow rates may enhance the phenol degradation rate. However, very high liquid and air flow rates could lead to the decrease in the performance of the three-phase fluidized bed photoreactor. The results on the effect of initial phenol concentration on the degradation rate indicated that the photocatalytic reaction in the three-phase fluidized bed followed the first order kinetics and could be reasonably fitted by the Langmiur-Hinshelwood kinetics model. Compared to the three-phase fluidized bed in which air is introduced into the bed from the distributor, the liquid-solids fluidized bed in which oxygen is provided by injecting air into the freeboard region of the reactor showed a better phenol destruction performance and is thus preferred for photodegradation of water contaminants.
Starting School at Four: The Effect of Universal Pre-Kindergarten on Children's Academic Achievement
Authors: Fitzpatrick Maria D
Published: November 2008

Universal Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) programs differ from widely known and extensively evaluated programs like Head Start and Perry Preschool because access is open to all children of the appropriate age. To estimate the intent-to-treat effects of these programs on the long term educational achievement of children, I use a differences-in-differences framework and individual-level data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. For disadvantaged children residing in small towns and rural areas, Universal Pre-K availability increases both reading and mathematics test scores at fourth grade as well as the probability of students being on-grade for their age. Increases in some measures of achievement also were seen among other groups, though the patterns were less uniform across outcome measures. The results correspond with other work showing children living in less densely populated areas are those most likely to enroll in preschool because of the program's availability.
Physical Inactivity Differentially Alters Dietary Oleate and Palmitate Trafficking
Authors: Bergouignan Audrey , Trudel Guy , Simon Chantal , Chopard Angèle , Schoeller Dale A. , Momken Iman , Votruba Susanne B. , Desage Michel , Burdge Graham C. , Gauquelin-Koch Guillemette , Normand Sylvie , Blanc Stéphane
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— Obesity and diabetes are characterized by the incapacity to use fat as fuel. We hypothesized that this reduced fat oxidation is secondary to a sedentary lifestyle.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We investigated the effect of a 2-month bed rest on the dietary oleate and palmitate trafficking in lean women (control group, n = 8) and the effect of concomitant resistance/aerobic exercise training as a countermeasure (exercise group, n = 8). Trafficking of stable isotope–labeled dietary fats was combined with muscle gene expression and magnetic resonance imaging–derived muscle fat content analyses.

RESULTS— In the control group, bed rest increased the cumulative [1-13C]oleate and [d31]palmitate appearance in triglycerides (37%, P = 0.009, and 34%, P = 0.016, respectively) and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) (37%, P = 0.038, and 38%, P = 0.002) and decreased muscle lipoprotein lipase (P = 0.043) and fatty acid translocase CD36 (P = 0.043) mRNA expressions. Plasma NEFA-to-triglyceride ratios for [1-13C]oleate and [d31]palmitate remained unchanged, suggesting that the same proportion of tracers enters the peripheral tissues after bed rest. Bed rest did not affect [1-13C]oleate oxidation but decreased [d31]palmitate oxidation by −8.2 ± 4.9% (P < 0.0001). Despite a decreased spontaneous energy intake and a reduction of 1.9 ± 0.3 kg (P = 0.001) in fat mass, exercise training did not mitigate these alterations but partially maintained fat-free mass, insulin sensitivity, and total lipid oxidation in fasting and fed states. In both groups, muscle fat content increased by 2.7% after bed rest and negatively correlated with the reduction in [d31]palmitate oxidation (r2 = 0.48, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS— While saturated and monounsaturated fats have similar plasma trafficking and clearance, physical inactivity affects the partitioning of saturated fats toward storage, likely leading to an accumulation of palmitate in muscle fat.
Small Decrements in Systemic Glucose Provoke Increases in Hypothalamic Blood Flow Prior to the Release of Counterregulatory Hormones
Authors: Page Kathleen A. , Arora Jagriti , Qiu Maolin , Relwani Rachna , Constable R. Todd , Sherwin Robert S.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—The hypothalamus is the central brain region responsible for sensing and integrating responses to changes in circulating glucose. The aim of this study was to determine the time sequence relationship between hypothalamic activation and the initiation of the counterregulatory hormonal response to small decrements in systemic glucose.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Nine nondiabetic volunteers underwent two hyperinsulinemic clamp sessions in which pulsed arterial spin labeling was used to measure regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) at euglycemia (∼95 mg/dl) on one occasion and as glucose levels were declining to a nadir of ∼50 mg/dl on another occasion. Plasma glucose and counterregulatory hormones were measured during both study sessions.

RESULTS—CBF to the hypothalamus significantly increased when glucose levels decreased to 77.2 ± 2 mg/dl compared with the euglycemic control session when glucose levels were 95.7 ± 3 mg/dl (P = 0.0009). Hypothalamic perfusion was significantly increased before there was a significant elevation in counterregulatory hormones.

CONCLUSIONS—Our data suggest that the hypothalamus is exquisitely sensitive to small decrements in systemic glucose levels in healthy, nondiabetic subjects and that hypothalamic blood flow, and presumably neuronal activity, precedes the rise in counterregulatory hormones seen during hypoglycemia.
Relationship of Insulin Resistance and Related Metabolic Variables to Coronary Artery Disease: A Mathematical Analysis
Authors: Eddy David , Schlessinger Len , Kahn Richard , Peskin Barbara , Schiebinger Rick
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—People with diabetes have an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). An unanswered question is what portion of CAD can be attributed to insulin resistance, related metabolic variables, and other known CAD risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The Archimedes model was used to estimate the proportion of myocardial infarctions that would be prevented by maintaining insulin resistance and other risk factors at healthy levels. Person-specific data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1998–2004 were used to create a simulated population representative of young adults in the U.S. This population was then entered into a series of simulated clinical trials designed to explore the effects of each risk factor. Each trial had a control arm (all risk factors were allowed to progress without interventions) and a treatment arm (a risk factor was held to its value in young healthy adults). The trials continued for 60 years. The effects of these hypothetical “cures” of each risk factor provide estimates of their impact on CAD.

RESULTS—In young adults, preventing insulin resistance would prevent ∼42% of myocardial infarctions. The next most important determinant of CAD is systolic hypertension, prevention of which would reduce myocardial infarctions by ∼36%. Following systolic blood pressure, the most important determinants are HDL cholesterol (31%), BMI (21%), LDL cholesterol (16%), triglycerides (10%), fasting plasma glucose and smoking (both ∼9%), and family history (4%).

CONCLUSIONS—Insulin resistance is likely the most important single cause of CAD. A better understanding of its pathogenesis and how it might be prevented or cured could have a profound effect on CAD.
Will People With Type 2 Diabetes Speak to Family Members About Health Risk?
Authors: Whitford David L. , McGee Hannah , O’Sullivan Bernadette
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—This study aimed to assess the potential for communication of familial risk by patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A questionnaire was completed by a random sample of patients with type 2 diabetes registered with a hospital diabetes clinic.

RESULTS—Two-thirds of patients (65%) had spoken to at least one sibling or child about diabetes risk. They were more likely to believe their family was at risk, to worry about their family developing diabetes, and to be aware of the seriousness of diabetes. The results revealed greater awareness of family risk of type 2 diabetes compared with those from previous studies.

CONCLUSIONS—Many patients with type 2 diabetes had already taken the initiative, without formal prompting, to talk to family members about their risk of diabetes. Discussion of risk and interventions to reduce risk should be encouraged within families.
Web-Based Collaborative Care for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ralston James D. , Hirsch Irl B. , Hoath James , Mullen Mary , Cheadle Allen , Goldberg Harold I.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—To test Web-based care management of glycemic control using a shared electronic medical record with patients who have type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We conducted a trial of 83 adults with type 2 diabetes randomized to receive usual care plus Web-based care management or usual care alone between August 2002 and May 2004. All patients had GHb ≥7.0%, had Web access from home, and could use a computer with English language–based programs. Intervention patients received 12 months of Web-based care management. The Web-based program included patient access to electronic medical records, secure e-mail with providers, feedback on blood glucose readings, an educational Web site, and an interactive online diary for entering information about exercise, diet, and medication. The primary outcome was change in GHb.

RESULTS—GHb levels declined by 0.7% (95% CI 0.2−1.3) on average among intervention patients compared with usual-care patients. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol levels, and use of in-person health care services did not differ between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS—Care management delivered through secure patient Web communications improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
Fasting Versus Postload Plasma Glucose Concentration and the Risk for Future Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Abdul-Ghani Muhammad A. , Lyssenko Valeriya , Tuomi Tiinamaija , DeFronzo Ralph A. , Groop Leif
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of the postload plasma glucose concentration in predicting future risk of type 2 diabetes, compared with prediction models based on measurement of the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) concentration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A total of 2,442 subjects from the Botnia Study, who were free of type 2 diabetes at baseline, received an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at baseline and after 7–8 years of follow-up. Future risk for type 2 diabetes was assessed with area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for prediction models based up measurement of the FPG concentration 1) with or without a 1-h plasma glucose concentration during the OGTT and 2) with or without the metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS—Prediction models based on measurement of the FPG concentration were weak predictors for the risk of future type 2 diabetes. Addition of a 1-h plasma glucose concentration markedly enhanced prediction of the risk of future type 2 diabetes. A cut point of 155 mg/dl for the 1-h plasma glucose concentration during the OGTT and presence of the metabolic syndrome were used to stratify subjects in each glucose tolerance group into low, intermediate, and high risk for future type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS—The plasma glucose concentration at 1 h during the OGTT is a strong predictor of future risk for type 2 diabetes and adds to the prediction power of models based on measurements made during the fasting state. A plasma glucose cut point of 155 mg/dl plus the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for the metabolic syndrome can be used to stratify nondiabetic subjects into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups.
Hyperglycemia and Stroke Mortality
Authors: Hyvärinen Marjukka , Qiao Qing , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Laatikainen Tiina , Heine Robert J. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Alberti K. George M.M. , Pyörälä Kalevi , Zethelius Björn , Stegmayr Birgitta ,   for the DECODE Study Group
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—We investigated stroke mortality in individuals in different categories of glycemia and compared hazard ratios (HRs) corresponding to a 1-SD increase in 2-h plasma glucose and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) criteria.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We examined data from 2-h 75-g oral glucose tolerance tests taken from 13 European cohorts comprising 11,844 (55%) men and 9,862 (45%) women who were followed up for a median of 10.5 years. A multivariate adjusted Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate HRs for stroke mortality.

RESULTS—In men and women without a prior history of diabetes, multivariate adjusted HRs for stroke mortality corresponding to a 1-SD increase in FPG were 1.02 (95% CI 0.83–1.25) and 1.52 (1.22–1.88) and those in 2-h plasma glucose 1.21 (1.06–1.38) and 1.31 (1.06–1.61), respectively. Addition of 2-h plasma glucose to the model with FPG significantly improved prediction of stroke mortality in men (χ2 = 10.12; P = 0.001) but not in women (χ2 = 0.01; P = 0.94), whereas addition of FPG to 2-h plasma glucose improved stroke mortality in women (χ2 = 4.08; P = 0.04) but not in men (χ2 = 3.29; P = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS—Diabetes defined by either FPG or 2-h plasma glucose increases the risk of stroke mortality. In individuals without a history of diabetes, elevated 2-h postchallenge glucose is a better predictor than elevated fasting glucose in men, whereas the latter is better than the former in women.
Free-Living Physical Activity Energy Expenditure Is Strongly Related to Glucose Intolerance in Cameroonian Adults Independently of Obesity
Authors: Assah Felix K. , Ekelund Ulf , Brage Soren , Mbanya Jean Claude , Wareham Nicholas J.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—We examined the cross-sectional association between objectively measured free-living physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and glucose tolerance in adult Cameroonians without known diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—PAEE was measured in 34 volunteers using the doubly labeled water method and indirect calorimetry (resting). Fasting blood glucose and 2-h postload blood glucose were measured during a standard 75-g oral glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS—There was a significant negative correlation between PAEE and 2-h glucose (r = −0.43; P = 0.01) but not fasting glucose (r = 0.1; P = 0.57). The inverse association between PAEE and 2-h glucose remained after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI (β = −0.017 [95% CI −0.033 to −0.002]) and was unchanged after further adjustment for waist circumference, body fat percentage, or aerobic fitness.

CONCLUSIONS—PAEE is inversely associated with 2-h glucose independently of adiposity or fitness. Interventions aimed at increasing PAEE could play an important role in diabetes prevention in developing countries.
A version of Brauer’s theorem for integer central functions
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor , Maciel Jorge
Published: November 2008

In this article we prove an effective version of the classical Brauer’s Theorem for integer class functions on finite groups.
Perturbation of the lipid phase of a membrane is not involved in the modulation of MRP1 transport activity by flavonoids
Authors: Wesołowska Olga , Hendrich Andrzej , Łania-Pietrzak Barbara , Wiśniewski Jerzy , Molnar Joseph , Ocsovszki Imre , Michalak Krystyna
Published: November 2008

The expression of transmembrane transporter multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1) confers the multidrug-resistant phenotype (MDR) on cancer cells. Since the activity of the other MDR transporter, P-glycoprotein, is sensitive to membrane perturbation, we aimed to check whether the changes in lipid bilayer properties induced by flavones (apigenin, acacetin) and flavonols (morin, myricetin) were related to their MRP1 inhibitory activity. All the flavonoids inhibited the efflux of MRP1 fluorescent substrate from human erythrocytes and breast cancer cells. Morin was also found to stimulate the ATPase activity of erythrocyte ghosts. All flavonoids intercalated into phosphatidylcholine bilayers as judged by differential scanning calorimetry and fluorescence spectroscopy with the use of two carbocyanine dyes. The model of an intramembrane localization for flavones and flavonols was proposed. No clear relationship was found between the membrane-perturbing activity of flavonoids and their potency to inhibit MRP1. We concluded that mechanisms other than perturbation of the lipid phase of membranes were responsible for inhibition of MRP1 by the flavonoids.
Chemometrical analysis of computed QSAR parameters and their use in biological activity prediction
Authors: Nemeček Peter , Ďurčeková Tatiana , Mocák Ján , Waisser Karel
Published: November 2008

This study gives a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) correlation of the 72 N-benzylsalicylamide derivatives properties with their antimycobacterial activity. The antimycobacterial activity was measured as the minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) determined for four strains of mycobacterium (M. avium, M. kansasii, M. kansasii clin.-clinically isolated form, and M. tuberculosis) after 14 days and after 21 days of cultivation. The objective was to identify the factors most closely defining biological activity of N-benzylsalicylamides, in order to enable QSAR prediction of new derivatives with high antimycobacterial activity. Optimal properties for the QSAR analysis were selected from several physicochemical properties, including lipophilicity parameter log P, molecular mass M, molar refraction MR, NMR chemical shifts, polarizability, etc. Many of the considered properties are different from those typically used in traditional QSAR. Selection of the most important properties was performed by one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and correlation analysis using the significance coefficients and the correlation coefficients, respectively. The chosen variables were further used in artificial neural networks (ANN) for predicting biological activity in the form of-log(MIC).
Concurrent chemoradiation in treatment of carcinoma cervix
Authors: Singh Meeta , Jha Rajshree , Baral Josie , Rawal Suniti
Published: November 2008

Aim: to compare if concurrent chemoradiation is better than radiotherapy given alone in the treatment of women with locally advanced cervical cancer from published literature Method: Study Design: Randomized control trials of > than 2, 403 women participants who underwent treatment for advanced cervical carcinoma mainly in two huge center i.e. from National Cancer Institute (NCI), USA and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) were reviewed regarding the treatment they received at the center: concurrent chemoradiation/ radiation therapy alone. The results were analyzed to come to conclusion. Result demonstrated a 30-50% improvement in survival when cisplatin-based chemotherapy in NCI or 5 fluorouracil and cisplatin based chemotherapy was used in EORTC was administered with concurrent radiation therapy (chemoradiation) Conclusions: The addition of chemotherapy (cisplatin) in NCI and (cisplatin and fluorouracil) in the EORTC for the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer with the concurrent chemoradition have elicited better survival than those treated with radiotherapy alone dittoed by several other trials which can be anticipated to benefit Nepalese women with locally advanced cervical carcinoma. Key-words: Cancer cervix, chemoradiation, radiotherapy   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1467 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 4 - 8 May -June 2007
Eclampsia in Janakpur Zonal Hospital, Nepal: Favourable outcome with Magnesium sulphate
Authors: Jha Rani , Verma Sheela , Jha Shailesh K
Published: November 2008

Aim: To determine the demographic characters of patients of eclampsia and the effectiveness of Magnesium Sulphate in terms of maternal and perinatal outcome. Methods: A prospective study of the eclamptic patients was conducted from 18th Aug - 17th Oct 2006 (1 Bhadra 2063 to 30 Ashwin 2063) attending the Obstetric Department of Janakpur Zonal Hospital (JZH). Results: Of the 50 eclamptic women [antepartum 80%, intrapartum 6 % and postpartum 14%] with overall improvement in 92% although 2 cases had to be referred to center with ICU facility and 2 cases died. The demographic characteristics were young primiparous population of low socioeconomic condtion. Caesarean was done for 48 %. Pretermaurity was seen in 50% and 76% were live birth. Conclusions: Nepal has a high maternal mortality rate and eclampsia is a big contributing factor, which could be reduced by using magnesium sulphate widely in all parts of Nepal taking, ours as one of the peripheral hospital as an example. Key words: Eclampsia, magnesium sulphate, maternal mortality   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1470   N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 17 - 19 May -June 2007
Home based obstetric care: How much safer?
Authors: Joshi Manohar
Published: November 2008

Objective: To find out the obstetric care management and the consequences of home based delivery assisted by skilled birth attendants or quacks from registered delivery of referral cases in Bhim Hospital, Siddharthnagar, Rupandehi district, Nepal. Methods: This is a retrospective and descriptive study of the clients who were referred to and from Bhim Hospital, Siddharthnagar for obstetric conditions during the past four years (2058-2061). Results: A total number of 3174 women were cared during these 4 years (2058-2061). A decreasing tendency in hospital deliveries were noted during the same period of four years (2058-2061). The numbers of cases being referred from the community were seen to increase every year from 4.6% in the first years to 19.8% in the fourth year. Out of the 380 cases referred 188 were complicated obstetric cases. Among them 48 women were delivered by ventouse while 140 women had to be re-referred for operative delivery to district hospital having caesarean facility. This was shear wastage of time. Holding back the laboring women in villages for the benefit of incentive; provided by Government to promote home based delivery care was speculated to be one of the reasons why women were brought so late. Conclusion. In view of women's benefit and to limit unnecessary dilly-dallying in between, it is rather better to refer difficult obstetric case from the community directly to the district hospitals, equipped with extended comprehensive emergency obstetric care (CEOC) services, escaping various ladders of referral thus saving time. Instead a concept of birthing center to be emphasized more than home based delivery. Keywords: Birthing center, extended CEOC services, ventouse delivery in the community.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1471 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 20 - 22 May -June 2007
Oral: Vaginal Misoprostol: Which route for induction of term labor?
Authors: Khatri (Adhikari) Ratna , Sharma Jyoti , Amatya Archana
Published: November 2008

Aim: To compare the effectiveness of oral misoprostol with vaginal misoprostol for induction of labour at or more than 40 weeks of pregnancy. Method: Study design: Prospective comparative study. Duration: March 2005 to February 2006 (12 months)in the Dept of Obs/Gyn, TU Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu. Methods: Hundred nullipara (primi or gravida 2 with 1 spontaneous or induced abortion < 12 gestational weeks) in a singleton pregnancy > 40 but with Bishop's score < 4 were induced equally with either oral (100 mgm) Group A or vaginal (25mcg) Group B: were administered 4 hourly up to maximum of 6 doses. Primary outcome measures: duration of induction to active stage of labour or delivery, spontaneous rupture of membrane (SROM), meconium stained liquor (MSL), caesarean and neonatal morbidity with respect to Apgar score were assessed. Results: In vaginal 33 oral 17 had SROM with higher incidence of MSL (60% versus 12%) and higher caesarean 15%: 4%. Even there was > fetal distress 11/15: 2/7 group B/, which was statistically significant. No significant difference was noted in the pre induction cervical score, number of doses, induction to active stage of labour, induction to delivery time, use of oxytocin, failed induction and Apgar scores. Conclusion: Oral misoprostol found to be associated with less SROM, meconium stained liquor and vaginal birth and comparatively less neonatal care unit admissions outweighs its advantages over the vaginal misopristol, although either route were equally proven to be effective for inducing labour in women with unfavourable cervix (Bishop's score < 4) at term pregnancy.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1472 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 23 - 28 May -June 2007
Malignancies of the female genital tract from general gynecological services: Five years review at BPKIHS
Authors: Pokharel Hanoon P , Basnet Nibedita , Uprety Dhruba , Bannerjee Basudeb , Sinha Aravind , Pokharel Paras K
Published: November 2008

Aim: To observe the trend of malignant diseases of the female genital tract, and to assess pattern amongst the diagnosed cases and its management at BPKIHS. Methods: All the diagnosed cases of female genital malignancies were followed. Cases in advance stages were referred to Oncology Centers. Some patients opted to undergo treatment at BPKIHS. Those case sheets and histopathology reports were analyzed to see the trend and pattern of diseases and its optimum management. Referred cases who came for further follow up in the general gynecology department after consultation and treatment are also included in the study. Setting: Department of obstetrics & Gynecology and Pathology, BPKIHS. Results: Cervical cancer was the commonest malignant disease 216 (67.3%) followed by the ovary (17%), endometrium (10%), choriocarcinoma (3.4%) and vulva and vagina (2.8%). The mean (years in) age of the patients varied with the type of cancer as follows - cervix (30.9), ovary (40.4), endometrium (54.8), choriocarcinoma (25.6) and Vagina & vulva (42.2). Out of the total 216 patients Carcinoma Cervix only 20 patients were admitted for Radical surgery and treatment. 196 patients belonged to the group of advanced carcinoma cervix and were referred to the cancer hospital for radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Conclusion: Cancer cervix is the most common and manageable disease if diagnosed early provided mandatory selective screening program are implemented. The missed opportunity to diagnose the disease in time should be utilized by creating national or regional community - based cervical cancer screening program. General gynecological service provider can also contribute a lot to reduce the burden of disease. Keywords: Female genital malignancies, carcinoma cervix, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1474 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 35 - 38 May -June 2007
Pre-operative hemoglobin level: Correlation with hemoperitoneum in ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Gurung Geeta , Rana Ashma
Published: November 2008

Aim: To find out the incidence and correlation of preoperative hemoglobin level (Hb %) with hemoperitoneum in cases of ectopic pregnancy (EP). Methods: This was a prospective study carried out in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Nepal during the period of 5 years; 15 April 2002-14 April 2007 (Baisakh 2059 - Chaitra 2063). All the cases of hemoperitoneum from rupture of EP confirmed at laparotomy were analyzed. Unruptured ectopic EP undergoing medical management or ruptured organized EP forming tubo-ovarian mass and ruptured rudimentary horn pregnancy without hemoperitoneum were all excluded. Datas were collected from patient's interview, reviewing the operation record and record file. Result: Of the total 167 EP constituting 0.963 % of all deliveries, managed during the five years period, 150 (90%) cases with hemoperitoneum were analyzed. Further excluding five cases not mentioning the amount of hemoperitoneum 145 [ < 1500ml (98) or >1500ml ->3000ml (47)] was categorized to have different degrees of anaemia was ascertained in 90 (62.1%): Severe (13), moderate (55) and mild (22). Results depicted a negative (inverse) correlation between pre operative Hb level and hemoperitoneum. Conclusion: In conclusion there is negative (inverse) correlation between pre-operative Hb percentage and hemoperitoneum which is statistically significant. Keywords: Ruptured ectopic, hemoperitoneum, hemoglobin level          doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1475 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 39 - 43 May -June 2007
Safe abortion service and post abortion care: Understanding complications
Authors: Thapa Sudha , Satyal Indira , Malla Kasturi
Published: November 2008

Aim: To see if unsafe abortions are getting lesser after the establishment of comprehensive abortion care (CAC) Unit since March 2004. Methods: Retrospective study of women admitted with complication of abortions [induced (medically/criminal) or spontaneous] during the entire ten years period after the inception of post abortion care (PAC) Unit 2095 May -2007 April; the last 3 years overlapping the service years of CAC Unit establishment. Result: CAC and PAC units both are using manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) to procure uterine evacuation. CAC clients in the last 3 years have reached to a little less than 10,000. This is close to MVA services provided in the PAC Unit in the last 10 years amounting to 11,519. But the number (n=3958) of service provided by the PAC Unit for a complete period of three years 2058-2060 (April 2001 - April 2004) showed a slight increase to (n=4323) as the CAC Unit became functional during the 2061-2063 (15th April 2004- 2007). The complications observed in PAC unit while providing MVA are much more than CAC unit (5.75%: 2%). But the nature of complication is much more serious in CAC Unit, 10 of them needing laparotomy for 20(0.02%) cases of uterine perforation. The induced abortion rate within the hospital, three years before and during CAC services is almost similar (4.07%: 4.34%). Seriousness of the problem has definitely reduced during recent 3 year's period (Baisakh 2061-2063 Chaitra) i.e. 52: 34 except for an unfortunate rise in uterine perforation from 8 to 29 cases, 10 being from the CAC Unit. Conclusion: Though the number of complicated cases of induced abortion seeking hospitalization has not changed much after inception of CAC services in the recent three years, there is definitely a decline in the admission of more serious complicated cases of induced abortion in the recent years with unfortunate rise in number of cases of uterine perforation.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1476 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 44 - 49 May -June 2007
Vaginal hysterectomy in Primary Health Center, Darchula: A remote area of rural Nepal
Authors: Pant Padam R , Joshi Bhoj R , Yogi Karbir N , Mishra Shyam S , Tinkari Bhim S
Published: November 2008

Aim: To make situational analysis of getting organized with vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair for uterine prolapse in Primary Health Center in remote area. Method: This is a prospective descriptive study conducted in a three bedded Primary Health Center ‘Gokuleswar' of Darchula district in far western region of Nepal. The vaginal hysterectomy camp was funded by Ministry of health. Women with second and third degree prolapse or complete procidentia were screened for operation. Patient were investigated for urine routine and microscopic examination, blood grouping, haemoglobin, total and differential count, bleeding time clotting time, blood sugar random, HIV, HBsAg. Result: 72 patients were operated. Majority of the patients were 40-50 years of age. Two patients (2.7%) were below 30 years of age. Parity ranged from 2-13. Among the operated patients, 49 (68 %) had complete procidentia. More than half of the patient 37(51.38%) had prolonged bleeding time, one patient (1.38%) needed laprotomy for uncontrolled bleeding and required right sided internal artery ligation for haemostasis. Conclusion: Providing surgical service in rural setting at their own door step to the Nepalese women who have no time to travel to different hospital at their own cost is divine. Such an out reach programme is a major health benefit. Key words: Uterovaginal prolapse, vaginal hysterectomy, rural gynecological problem.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1477 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 50 - 3 May -June 2007
Peritoneal fetus and tubal placentation: A case report of an abdominal pregnancy
Authors: Singh Alka , Sharma Paban
Published: November 2008

Reported here is a silent case of an abdominal pregnancy with fetal demise at twenty one weeks gestation, extracted from the peritoneal cavity at laparotomy along with the removal of placenta contained in fallopian tube by salphingectomy without any effort. Key words: intra-uterine fetal demise, abdominal fetus, placenta   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1479 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 56 - 58 May -June 2007
Haematometra in one half of the uterus or rudimentary horn?
Authors: Rawal Suniti , Baral Josie , Singh Meeta , Khan Samira , Shakya Beemba , Choudhary Rashmi , Thapa Mira , Anand Varsha
Published: November 2008

A unicornuate uterus with functioning and non communicating rudimentary horn is a rare Mullerian abnormality, difficult to diagnose at times usually low in the list of differential diagnosis for pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea. A 22 years P1 presented with severe lower abdominal pain and dysmenorrhoea, following laparotomy that was done for endometriotic cyst of left ovary 7 months back. Radiographic studies revealed the haematometra in the rudimentary horn with normal uterus, right ovary and the tube. Laparotomy with drainage of haematometra and excision of septum along with the reconstruction of uterine cavity was performed thus anatomizing it with the cavity of the rudimentary horn. Both the intra and the post operative period were uneventful. She was discharged on OCP along with the advice to follow up regularly. She is asymptomatic till date. Key words: Endometriosis, haematometra, rudimentary horn doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1480 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 59 - 62 May -June 2007
Fallopian tube carcinoma: Energy lost in diagnosing without the total benefit of chemotherapy
Authors: Pradhan Neelam , Ghimire Sita , Bist Kesang D , Manandhar Reeta
Published: November 2008

A post menopausal lady presented with vague symptoms of swelling in lower abdomen giving an impression of left adnexal mass clinically, with detection of similar finding on USG and CT scan, and an additional feature suggestive of liver metastases. On laparotomy this looked like a fallopian tube carcinoma and it was confirmed histologically, which showed infiltration of both the ovaries, left broad ligament, and cervix. FNAC of lymph node depicted metastatic adenocarcinoma, although the tumour markers and Pap test were negative. Patient's refusal to undergo chemotherapy turned down all the efforts made in making the diagnosis of this advanced malignancy. Key words: Adnexal mass, fallopian tube carcinoma, tumour markers   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1481 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 63 - 66 May -June 2007
Lipoleiomyosarcoma an extremely unusual sarcoma of uterus: A case report
Authors: Jha Abhimanyu , Sayami Gita , Adhikari Deepti
Published: November 2008

Uterine lipoleiomyosarcoma is a heterologous sarcoma composed of variable proportions of malignant lipoblasts histologically corresponding to well differentiated liposarcoma and malignant smooth muscle cells corresponding to leiomyosarcoma. Finding of benign lipomatous component in a typical leiomyoma (lipoleiomyoma) is not an uncommon, however, lipoleiomyosarcoma is an extremely rare malignant tumor and only very few cases have been reported so far. We report a case of lipoleiomyosarcoma of uterine corpus in a postmenopausal woman presenting with lower abdominal pain and abdominal mass. Diagnosis of lipoleiomyosarcoma was confirmed by histopathological examination of hysterectomy specimen. This is the first case of lipoleiomyosarcoma of uterus reported from Nepal. Keywords: Lipoleiomyosarcoma, uterus, histopathology, unusual case.   doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1482    N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 67 - 70 May -June 2007
Malignant mixed mullerian tumour: A brief communication
Authors: Malla Dibya S , Vaidya Achala , Kumar Prabhaker
Published: November 2008

Carcinosarcoma is a Malignant mixed mullerian tumor (MMT) originating from the mesothelium and mesenchyme of embryonic mesoderm, now better established by electron microscopy and immuno-peroxidase techniques. The most interesting aspects in the histogenesis of this biphasic tumour mostly monoclonal in origin are briefly communicated in this paper. Unfortunately, no adjuvant chemo or radiotherapy for either persistent or recurrent malignant diseases has ever resulted in cure of this aggressive tumour, usually seen in menopausal women. Key words: Malignant mixed mullerian tumor (MMT), carcinosarcoma, menopause.     doi:10.3126/njog.v2i1.1484 N. J. Obstet. Gynaecol Vol. 2, No. 1, p. 74 - 78 May -June 2007
From Maxwell’s Equations to Polarimetric SAR Images: A Simulation Approach
Authors: Sant’Anna Sidnei  J. S. , Da S. Lacava J.  C. , Fernandes David
Published: November 2008

A new electromagnetic approach for the simulation of polarimetric SAR images is proposed. It starts from Maxwell’s equations, employs the spectral domain full-wave technique, the moment method, and the stationary phase method to compute the far electromagnetic fields scattered by multilayer structures. A multilayer structure is located at each selected position of a regular rectangular grid of coordinates, which defines the scene area under imaging. The grid is determined taking into account the elementary scatter size and SAR operational parameters, such as spatial resolution, pixel spacing, look angle and platform altitude. A two-dimensional separable “sinc” function to represent the SAR spread point function is also considered. Multifrequency sets of single-look polarimetric SAR images are generated, in L-, C- and X-bands and the images are evaluated using several measurements commonly employed in SAR data analysis. The evaluation shows that the proposed simulation process is working properly, since the obtained results are in accordance with those presented in the literature. Therefore, this new approach becomes suitable for carrying out theoretical and practical studies using polarimetric SAR images.
Improved Progressive Polynomial Algorithm for Self-Adjustment and Optimal Response in Intelligent Sensors
Authors: Rivera José , Herrera Gilberto , Chacón Mario , Acosta Pedro , Carrillo Mariano
Published: November 2008

The development of intelligent sensors involves the design of reconfigurable systems capable of working with different input sensors signals. Reconfigurable systems should expend the least possible amount of time readjusting. A self-adjustment algorithm for intelligent sensors should be able to fix major problems such as offset, variation of gain and lack of linearity with good accuracy. This paper shows the performance of a progressive polynomial algorithm utilizing different grades of relative nonlinearity of an output sensor signal. It also presents an improvement to this algorithm which obtains an optimal response with minimum nonlinearity error, based on the number and selection sequence of the readjust points. In order to verify the potential of this proposed criterion, a temperature measurement system was designed. The system is based on a thermistor which presents one of the worst nonlinearity behaviors. The application of the proposed improved method in this system showed that an adequate sequence of the adjustment points yields to the minimum nonlinearity error. In realistic applications, by knowing the grade of relative nonlinearity of a sensor, the number of readjustment points can be determined using the proposed method in order to obtain the desired nonlinearity error. This will impact on readjustment methodologies and their associated factors like time and cost.
Mesoporous Silica with Multiple Catalytic Functionalities
Authors: Zhang Fang , Liu Guohua , He Wenhan , Yin Hong , Yang Xushi , Li Hui , Zhu Jian , Li Hexing , Lu Yunfeng
Published: November 2008

Mesoporous silica containing multiple organometallic active sites is synthesized using a traditional post‐synthesis complexation technique and a surfactant‐directed assembly approach. Systematic spectroscopic studies and structure analysis indicate that catalytic mesoporous silica with controlled composition and pore structure can be readily synthesized. Catalytic performance examined by an aqueous medium two‐step cascade reaction indicates that these materials possess excellent catalytic activity, reusability, and an interesting synergic effect. This work provides novel synthesis platforms towards multifunctional catalysts for more efficient chemical transformations.
Up to 96% Enantioselectivities in the Hydrogenation of Fluorine Substituted (E)‐2,3‐Diphenylpropenoic Acids over Cinchonidine‐Modified Palladium Catalyst
Authors: Szőllősi György , Hermán Beáta , Felföldi Károly , Fülöp Ferenc , Bartók Mihály
Published: November 2008

The enantioselective hydrogenation of methoxy‐ and fluorine‐substituted (E)‐2,3‐diphenylpropenoic acid derivatives was studied over cinchonidine‐modified, supported palladium catalysts in the absence and presence of benzylamine as additive. The fluorine substituent in the appropriate position was even more efficient than the methoxy group in increasing the optical purity of the saturated product. High enantioselectivities, up to 96%, were obtained in the hydrogenation of some disubstituted derivatives, unprecedented in the hydrogenation of prochiral unsaturated carboxylic acids over modified heterogeneous catalyst. The best optical purities were reached in the hydrogenation of derivates bearing a para‐substituent on the β phenyl and an ortho‐substituent on the α phenyl ring, respectively. The influence of the substituent on the β phenyl ring was attributed to the increase in the efficiency of the modifier‐substrate interaction by electronic effects or to a decrease in the adsorption strength of the substituted acid over modified surface sites. The beneficial effect of the ortho‐substituent on the α phenyl ring was assumed to be due to the additional interaction of this substituent with the modifier on the surface, its steric hindrance contributing only in a small part to the observed effect. These suggestions were supported by results obtained in the hydrogenations of some methyl‐substituted derivatives.
Efficient Syntheses of (Thio)phosphonylated Isobenzofurans by Tandem Nucleophilic Addition and Regioselective 5‐exo‐dig Addition to Carbon‐Carbon Triple Bond: Cooperative Effect to 1,8‐Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU)
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Yadan , Cai Lingchao , Miao Zhiwei , Chen Ruyu
Published: November 2008

The tandem nucleophilic addition‐cyclization reaction of o‐alkynylbenzaldehydes or o‐alkynylacetophenones 2 with dialkyl phosphites or dialkyl phosphonothioates 1 took place very smoothly in the presence of 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) in THF at room temperature. In all cases, the reaction proceeded in a regioselective manner leading to the 5‐exo‐dig products 3 in excellent yields. The phenomenon of a 1,5‐sigmatropic hydrogen shift or a 1,5‐sigmatropic methyl shift was observed in this reaction depending on the different substituent groups such as R3 in the o‐alkynylbenzaldehyde or o‐alkynylacetophenone 2 substrates.
Activation of Elemental Sulfur by Electrogenerated Cyanomethyl Anion: Synthesis of Substituted 2‐Aminothiophenes by the Gewald Reaction
Authors: Feroci Marta , Chiarotto Isabella , Rossi Leucio , Inesi Achille
Published: November 2008

The activation of elemental sulfur (S8) has been achieved by means of electrogenerated cyanomethyl anion [easily obtained by galvanostatic reduction from acetonitrile/tetraethylammonium hexafluorophosphate (MeCN‐Et4NPF6)]. The “activated” sulfur reacted with ylidenemalononitriles to give substituted 2‐aminothiophenes in very high yields. This variation of the Gewald reaction has been carried out using only catalytic amounts of electricity and supporting electrolyte. A proposed mechanism for the interaction between S8 and cyanomethyl anion is described.
A Practical and Effective Ruthenium Trichloride‐Based Protocol for the Regio‐ and Stereoselective Catalytic Hydroamidation of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Gooßen Lukas J. , Arndt Matthias , Blanchot Mathieu , Rudolphi Felix , Menges Fabian , Niedner‐Schatteburg Gereon
Published: November 2008

A rational catalyst development based on mechanistic and spectroscopic investigations led to the discovery of a new protocol for catalytic hydroamidation reactions that draws on easily available ruthenium trichloride trihydrate (RuCl3⋅3 H2O) as the catalyst precursor instead of the previously employed, expensive bis(2‐methylallyl)(1,5‐cyclooctadiene)ruthenium(II). This practical and easy‐to‐use protocol dramatically improves the synthetic applicability of Ru‐catalyzed hydroamidations. The catalyst, generated in situ from ruthenium(III) chloride hydrate, tri‐n‐butylphosphine, 4‐(dimethylamino)pyridine and potassium carbonate, effectively promotes the addition of secondary amides, lactams and carbamates to terminal alkynes under formation of (E)‐anti‐Markovnikov enamides. The scope of the new protocol is demonstrated by the synthesis of 24 functionalized enamide derivatives, among them valuable intermediates for organic synthesis.