bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Analysis and Optimization of Oxygen Separation from Air via Pressure Swing Adsorption
Authors: Ghoreishi Seyyed M. , Hoseini Dastgerdi Z. , Dadkhah Ali A
Published: August 2011

A pressure swing adsorption air separation process in a commercial aircraft using 13X zeolite with a more complex cycle than the classic Skarstrom was simulated via a predictive dynamic model to evaluate and optimize oxygen generation system. The coupled mass, energy, and momentum differential equations were discretized using the implicit central finite-difference technique and the obtained equations were solved by Newton-Raphson method. The validated model in conjunction with an optimization procedure (Successive Quadratic Programming) was utilized to investigate the oxygen separation efficiency as a function of β (ratio between the bed time constant and the particle diffusion time constant), Cfp (purge orifice coefficient), θcycle (cycle time), Cff (feed valve), Cfe (exhaust valve) and pH* (high pressure operation). A set of optimum values (β=150, Cfp=0.7, θcycle=1.5, Cff=31, Cfe=52 and pH*=3.8) was obtained and recommended to achieve maximum recovery (0.26) at 98% purity.
A New Existence and Uniqueness Theorem for Continuous Games
Authors: Hogan Seamus D
Published: August 2011

This paper derives a general sufficient condition for existence and uniqueness in continuous games using a variant of the contraction mapping theorem applied to mappings from a subset of the real line on to itself. We first prove this contraction mapping variant, and then show how the existence of a unique equilibrium in the general game can be shown by proving the existence of a unique equilibrium in an iterative sequence of games involving such mappings. Finally, we show how a general condition for this to occur is that a matrix derived from the Jacobian matrix of best-response functions has positive leading principal minors, and how this condition generalises some existing uniqueness theorems for particular games. In particular, we show how the same conditions used in those theorems to show uniqueness, also guarantee existence in games with unbounded strategy spaces.
Association Between Type 2 Diabetes and Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants
Authors: Airaksinen Riikka , Rantakokko Panu , Eriksson Johan G. , Blomstedt Paul , Kajantie Eero , Kiviranta Hannu
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing alarmingly in both developed and developing countries. Recently, exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) has been associated with the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to examine the association between type 2 diabetes and POP exposure in the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The cohort consists of 8,760 people born in Helsinki during 1934–1944, before the global POP emission peak. In 2003, a clinical examination was performed, including blood sampling for laboratory analyses of serum lipids and POPs. Complete data from the examination were available for 1,988 participants. The concentrations of each POP were categorized into four groups on the basis of percentile intervals, and logistic regression was performed to examine diabetes prevalence across the POP categories, adjusting for sex, age, waist circumference, and mean arterial pressure and using the lowest category as the reference group.

RESULTS

Among the participants with the highest exposure to oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis-(p-chlorophenyl)-ethylene (p,p’-DDE, and polychlorinated biphenyl 153, the risk of type 2 diabetes was 1.64–2.24 times higher than that among individuals with the lowest exposure (Plin = 0.003–0.050, where Plin is the P value for linear trend across POP categories). In the stratified analysis, the associations between type 2 diabetes and oxychlordane and trans-nonachlor remained significant and were strongest among the overweight participants. Exposure to 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 47) and 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 153) was not associated with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the association between type 2 diabetes and adult-only exposure to organochlorine pesticides in a general urban population.
Effects of the New Dual PPARα/δ Agonist GFT505 on Lipid and Glucose Homeostasis in Abdominally Obese Patients With Combined Dyslipidemia or Impaired Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Cariou Bertrand , Zaïr Yassine , Staels Bart , Bruckert Eric
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the metabolic effects and tolerability of GFT505, a novel dual peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α/δ agonist, in abdominally obese patients with either combined dyslipidemia or prediabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The S1 study was conducted in 94 patients with combined dyslipidemia while the S2 study was conducted in 47 patients with prediabetes. Participants were randomly assigned in a double-blind manner to GFT505 at 80 mg/day or placebo for 28 (S1) or 35 (S2) days. Primary efficacy end points were changes from baseline at week 4 in both fasting plasma triglycerides and HDL cholesterol in the S1 group and 2-h glucose upon oral glucose tolerance test in the S2 group.

RESULTS

In comparison with placebo, GFT505 significantly reduced fasting plasma triglycerides (S1: least squares means −16.7% [95% one-sided CI −∞ to −5.3], P = 0.005; S2: −24.8% [−∞ to −10.5], P = 0.0003) and increased HDL cholesterol (S1: 7.8% [3.0 to ∞], P = 0.004; S2: 9.3% [1.7 to ∞], P = 0.009) in both studies, whereas LDL cholesterol only decreased in S2 (−11.0% [ −∞ to −3.5], P = 0.002). In S2, GFT505 did not reduce 2-h glucose (−0.52 mmol/L [−∞ to 0.61], P = 0.18) but led to a significant decrease of homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (−31.4% [−∞ to 12.5], P = 0.001), fasting plasma glucose (−0.37 mmol/L [−∞ to −0.10], P = 0.01) and fructosamine (−3.6% [−∞ to −0.20], P = 0.02). GFT505 also reduced γ glutamyl transferase levels in both studies (S1: −19.9% [−∞ to −12.8], P < 0.0001; S2: −15.1% [−∞ to −1.1], P = 0.004). No specific adverse safety signals were reported during the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

GFT505 may be considered a new drug candidate for the treatment of lipid and glucose disorders associated with the metabolic syndrome.
Metformin and Chronic Renal Impairment: A Story of Choices and Ugly Ducklings
Authors: Heaf James G. , van Biesen Wim
Published: August 2011

IN BRIEF

Most guidelines advise against the use of metformin in uremia because of an enhanced risk for lactic acidosis (LA). However, there exists no firm theoretical or experimental evidence demonstrating a negative effect of metformin on p-lactate metabolism nor any epidemiological support for an increased risk of LA. Because metformin reduces cardiovascular events and mortality in type 2 diabetes, there is no justification for maintaining azotemia as a contraindication to metformin treatment.
Bonding Nano-filled Resin-modified Glass Ionomer to Dentin Using Different Self-etch Adhesives
Authors: El-Askary F , Nassif M
Published: August 2011

Clinical Relevance

A “sandwich technique” restoration using nano-filled RMGI/resin composite can be achieved in one clinical bonding step using the self-etch adhesives.
The Influence of Surface Standardization of Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic on Bond Strength to a Dual Resin Cement
Authors: Brum R , Mazur R , Almeida J , Borges G , Caldas D
Published: August 2011

In vitro studies to assess bond strength between resins and ceramics have used surfaces that have been ground flat to ensure standardization; however, in patients, ceramic surfaces are irregular. The effect of a polished and unpolished ceramic on bond strength needs to be investigated. Sixty ceramic specimens (20×5×2 mm) were made and divided into two groups. One group was ground with 220- to 2000-grit wet silicon carbide paper and polished with 3-, 1-, and ¼-μm diamond paste; the other group was neither ground nor polished. Each group was divided into three subgroups: treated polished controls (PC) and untreated unpolished controls (UPC), polished (PE) and unpolished specimens (UPE) etched with hydrofluoric acid, and polished (PS) and unpolished specimens (UPS) sandblasted with alumina. Resin cement cylinders were built over each specimen. Shear bond strength was measured, and the fractured site was analyzed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post hoc tests were performed. PE (44.47 ± 5.91 MPa) and UPE (39.70 ± 5.46 MPa) had the highest mean bond strength. PS (31.05 ± 8.81 MPa), UPC (29.11 ± 8.11 MPa), and UPS (26.41 ± 7.31 MPa) were statistically similar, and PC (24.96 ± 8.17 MPa) was the lowest. Hydrofluoric acid provides the highest bond strength regardless of whether the surface is polished or not.
Efficacy of a Novel At-home Bleaching Technique With Carbamide Peroxides Modified by CPP-ACP and Its Effect on the Microhardness of Bleached Enamel
Authors: Borges BCD , Borges JS , de Melo CD , Pinheiro IVA , Santos AJS dos , Braz R , Montes MAJR
Published: August 2011

This study was designed to evaluate in vitro the efficacy of a novel at-home bleaching technique using 10% or 16% carbamide peroxide modified by casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) and its influence on the microhardness of bleached enamel. A total of 40 bovine incisors were divided into four groups (n=10) according to the bleaching agent used: 10% carbamide peroxide only; a blend of 10% carbamide peroxide and a CPP-ACP paste; 16% carbamide peroxide only; and a blend of 16% carbamide peroxide and a CPP-ACP paste. During the 14-day bleaching regimen, the samples were stored in artificial saliva. The Vickers microhardness and color of the teeth were assessed at baseline (T0) and immediately after the bleaching regimen (T14) using a microhardness tester and a spectrophotometer, respectively. The degree of color change was determined by the Commission Internationale de l'Eclariage (CIE) L*a*b* system (ΔE, ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb*) and Vita shade guide parameters. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance and the Tukey test (p<0.05). The teeth that were bleached with a blend of peroxide (10% or 16%) and the CPP-ACP paste presented increased microhardness values at T14 compared with T0, whereas the samples that were bleached with peroxide only did not show any differences in their microhardness values. All of the bleaching agents were effective at whitening the teeth and did not show a statistically significant difference using the CIEL*a*b* system (ΔE, ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb*) or the Vita shade guide parameters. The use of a CPP-ACP paste with carbamide peroxide bleaching agents increased the bleached enamel's microhardness and did not have an influence on whitening efficacy.
Building the Rationale and Structure for a Complex Physical Therapy Intervention Within the Context of a Clinical Trial: A Multimodal Individualized Treatment for Patients With Hip Osteoarthritis
Authors: Bennell Kim L. , Egerton Thorlene , Pua Yong-Hao , Abbott J. Haxby , Sims Kevin , Buchbinder Rachelle
Published: August 2011

Evaluating the efficacy of complex interventions such as multimodal, impairment-based physical therapy treatments in randomized controlled trials is essential to inform practice and compare relative benefits of available treatment options. Studies of physical therapy interventions using highly standardized intervention protocols, although methodologically rigorous, do not necessarily reflect “real-world” clinical practice, and in many cases results have been disappointing. Development of a complex intervention that includes multiple treatment modalities and individualized treatment technique selection requires a systematic approach to designing all aspects of the intervention based on theory, evidence, and practical constraints. This perspective article outlines the development of the rationale and structure of a multimodal physical therapy program for painful hip osteoarthritis to be assessed in a clinical trial. The resulting intervention protocol comprises a semi-structured program of exercises and manual therapy, advice, physical activity, and optional prescription of a gait aid that is standardized, yet can be individualized according to physical assessment and radiographic findings. The program is evidence based and reflects contemporary physical therapist practice, while also being reproducible and reportable. This perspective article aims to encourage physical therapy researchers involved in evaluation of complex interventions to better document their own intervention development, as well as the outcomes, thus generating a body of knowledge about the development processes and protocols that is generalizable to the real-world complexity of providing physical therapy to individual patients.
Bicycle Politics
Authors: Bonham Jennifer
Published: August 2011

J. Harry Wray, Pedal Power: The Quiet Rise of the Bicycle in American Public
Life (Boulder: Paradigm Publishers, 2008)

Jeff Mapes, Pedaling Revolution: How Cyclists are Changing American
Cities (Corvallis: Oregon State University Press, 2009)

Zack Furness, One Less Car: Bicycling and the Politics of Automobility
(Philadelphia: Temple University Press, 2010)
Cycling Cultures
Authors: Stoffers Manuel
Published: August 2011

Dave Horton, Paul Rosen, and Peter Cox (ed.), Cycling and Society
(Aldershot: Ashgate, 2007), xvi + 205 pp., €77.00.

A.A. Albert de la Bruhèze and F.C.A. Veraart, Fietsverkeer in praktijk en beleid in de twintigste eeuw: overeenkomsten en verschillen in fietsgebruik in Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Enschede, Zuidoost-Limburg, Antwerpen, Manchester, Kopenhagen, Hannover en Basel (Den Haag: Ministerie van Verkeer en Waterstaat/Stichting Historie der Techniek, 1999), 240 pp.

Anne-Katrin Ebert, Radelnde Nationen: Die Geschichte des Fahrrads in Deutschland und den Niederlanden bis 1940 (Frankfurt a.M.: Campus Verlag, 2010), 495 pp., €49.90.
Deep brain stimulation for treatment of hemichorea-hemiballism after craniopharyngioma resection: long-term follow-up
Authors: Capelle Hans-Holger , Kinfe Thomas M. , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: August 2011

Hemichorea-hemiballism is a rare movement disorder that has various causes. In treatment-resistant cases, both thalamic and pallidal functional procedures have been shown to yield beneficial results. Until now it has not been clarified whether the thalamus or the pallidum would yield a superior outcome.

After resection of a craniopharyngioma in this patient at the age of 49 years, hemichorea-hemiballism developed, with a latency of several weeks. Because the patient was greatly impaired by the movement disorder, she underwent implantation of deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes in the thalamic ventralis intermedius nucleus and the posteroventral lateral globus pallidus internus. Although both pallidal and thalamic stimulation could suppress the movement disorder, the voltage needed was clearly less with thalamic than with pallidal stimulation. At the last available follow-up 25 months postoperatively, complete subsidence of hemichorea-hemiballism was achieved with long-term thalamic stimulation.

Long-term DBS therapy is an efficient treatment modality for refractory hemichorea-hemiballism in the long run (> 2 years). A bifocal (thalamic and pallidal) target paradigm allowed selection of the optimal stimulation site. Thalamic DBS was more favorable with regard to energy consumption.
Butterfly vertebra with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation
Authors: Cho Hyung-Lea , Kim Jin-Sung , Paeng Sung Suk , Lee Sang-Ho
Published: August 2011

A butterfly vertebra is a rare congenital anomaly that is usually asymptomatic. The authors, however, describe a novel case involving a butterfly vertebra overlapping with disc herniation that presented as radiculopathy. A butterfly vertebra is characterized by a symmetrical fusion defect resulting in a sagittal cleft vertebra. Only a few cases of butterfly vertebrae have been reported as incidental findings. This spinal anomaly may be associated with other congenital conditions such as Pfeiffer, Crouzon, Jarcho-Levin, and Alagille syndromes. Moreover, there is no previous report of a case associated with symptomatic disc herniation from the sagittal cleft.

The authors excised the herniated disc fragment. They performed intraoperative discography after exposure of the corresponding intervertebral space via a conventional interlaminar approach. Histological examination of a tissue specimen showed scattered chondrocytes in the myxohyaline stroma, which indicated the nucleus pulposus.
Stridor and dysphagia associated with subthalamic nucleus stimulation in Parkinson disease
Authors: Fagbami Oluwakemi Y. , Donato Anthony A.
Published: August 2011

Refractory symptoms in Parkinson disease show good response to deep brain stimulation (DBS). This procedure improves United Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale scores and reduces dyskinesias, whereas speech and swallowing dysfunction typically do not improve and may even worsen. Rarely, DBS can cause idiosyncratic dystonias of muscle groups, including those of the neck and throat. The authors describe a patient experiencing stridor and dysphagia with confirmed pulmonary restriction and aspiration following subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulator adjustment, with a resolution of symptoms and signs when the stimulator was switched off.
An unusual and spectacular case of spindle cell lipoma of the posterior neck invading the spinal cervical canal and posterior cranial fossa
Authors: Petit Damien , Menei Philippe , Fournier Henri-Dominique
Published: August 2011

The authors describe the first case of spindle cell lipoma of the posterior neck invading the upper cervical spinal canal and the posterior cranial fossa. Spindle cell lipoma is an extremely rare variant of benign lipoma. It usually occurs as a solitary subcutaneous well-circumscribed lesion in the posterior neck or shoulders of adult men. Local aggressiveness is unusual. This 61-year-old man presented with an increased left cerebellar syndrome and headaches. He also had a posterior neck tumefaction, which had been known about for a long time. Computed tomography and MR imaging studies revealed a voluminous mass extending to the upper cervical canal and posterior cranial fossa and eroding the neighboring bones. The lesion was well delimited, and contrast enhancement was intense and heterogeneous. The tumor, which had initially developed under the muscles of the posterior neck, was totally resected. Histological assessment revealed numerous fat cells with spindle cells secreting collagen. The large size of the tumor and the submuscular location, bone erosion, and compression of the CNS were unusual in this rare subtype of benign adipose tumor. Its presentation could simulate a sarcoma.
Avoiding abdominal flank bulge after anterolateral approaches to the thoracolumbar spine: cadaveric study and electrophysiological investigation
Authors: Fahim Daniel K. , Kim Sang Don , Cho Dosang , Lee Sangkook , Kim Daniel H.
Published: August 2011

Object

The thoracolumbar junction is frequently accessed through an anterolateral approach with the incision and muscle dissection extending from the lower thoracic region to the lateral border of the rectus abdominis muscle. This approach is frequently associated with the subsequent development of an unsightly and uncomfortable relaxation of the ipsilateral abdominal wall, or flank bulge, caused by denervation injury to the intercostal nerves. However, the etiology of this complication is not widely recognized by spine surgeons. The object of this study was to better define the relevant anatomy and innervation of the anterolateral abdominal wall musculature.

Methods

The authors performed 32 cadaveric dissections and 6 intraoperative electromyography (EMG) evaluations.

Results

The cadaveric dissection studies and intraoperative EMG evaluations provided detailed anatomy of the anterolateral abdominal wall and its innervation. Cadaveric dissections revealed that the most significant intercostal nerve contributions to the anterolateral abdominal wall arise from T11 and T12. Electrophysiological confirmation of these findings was accomplished through intraoperative stimulation in 6 patients undergoing anterolateral retroperitoneal approaches to the thoracolumbar junction. The authors confirmed T11 and T12 innervation of the anterolateral abdominal wall musculature by direct intraoperative EMG recording in all 6 patients.

Conclusions

The authors classified the 3 potential zones of injury that can be affected during an anterolateral approach to the thoracolumbar junction. Modifications to the operative technique are suggested to avoid the complication of flank bulge. The most significant intercostal nerve contributions to the anterolateral abdominal wall arise from T11 and T12.
Quality Assurance (QA) in Laboratory Testing
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur
Published: August 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v2i2.8163AKMMC J 2011; 2(2): 03-05
Role of Carbohydrate Food in Pathophysiology of Nonobese Type 2 Diabetic Subjects
Authors: Sen Moushumi
Published: August 2011

Dietary nutrients have shown overriding influence on insulin sensitivity and secretory status of diabetic subjects due to rapid lifestyle changes and urbanization. A case control study was conducted with 98 type 2 diabetic subjects and 97 healthy controls with BMI below obesity range to explore the association of dietary carbohydrate and body insulin status of nonobese diabetic subjects. Nutrient profile was taken by dietary recall method. Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) was applied for measuring insulin status. Laboratory analysis and anthropometric measurements were done by standard methods. Statistical analysis was performed. Significant insulin secretory defect was found in diabetic group [Median (range), %; Control, 153 (65-285); DM, 50 (4-269)]. In diabetic group total carbohydrate [Median (range), gm/d; control, 235 (102-422); DM, 292 (151-454)], and fiber [Median (range), gm/d; control, 4.5 (2-18); DM, 6.2 (1.5-21)] consumption were found to be significantly higher than control. But no significant association was established between insulin secretions (HOMA%B) with carbohydrate consumption among the case group. So carbohydrate consumption does not influence β- cell serectory dysfunction in nonobese T2 DM patients. The possible potential effect of carbohydrate in insulin depression is not established. Key Words: Dietary Carbohydrate; Insulin Secretion; Nonobese Type 2 Diabetics DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v2i2.8166 AKMMC J 2011; 2(2): 14-17
Study on Unnatural Death Patterns in Dhaka City
Authors: Khan Md Belayet Hossain , Hossain Md Mosharraf
Published: August 2011

Unnatural deaths are the deaths which are caused by any means other than any disease1. Unnatural death is an indicator of social and mental health. This retrospective study was done to ascertain the pattern of unnatural deaths, whose autopsies were performed by Forensic medicine dept. of Dhaka Medical College from 1st Jan, 1996 to 31st Dec, 2000. A total 10436 death recorded were analysed to see their age, sex etc. The study revealed that total number of unnatural deaths were 9413, out of them males were higher than females ( M- 75.78% & F- 24.22%). Results showed that Accidental deaths were 77.22%, Homicidal deaths were 14.02% and Suicidal deaths were 10.76%. Accidental & Homicidal deaths were more common in male, whereas suicidal deaths were more common in female. This study suggest an extensive studies to formulate strategies to prevent those unnatural death to improve the situation. Key Words: Unnatural Death Patterns; Suicidal; Accidental DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v2i2.8167 AKMMC J 2011; 2(2): 18-20
AKMMC Journal Vol-I, No1, January 2010
Authors: Editor The
Published: August 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/akmmcj.v2i2.8172AKMMC J 2011; 2(2): 41
Comparative study of efficacy of brush cytology and transthoracic fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma
Authors: Hassan Md. Quamrul , Ahamad M. ShahabUddin , Ahmed Syed , Chowdhury M.A. Wahhab
Published: August 2011

Online: 20 July 2010DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v36i1.4251 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2010; 36: 37-39
Swelling of vallate papillae of the tongue following arsenic exposure
Authors: Sarwar A.F.M. , Ahmad SK. Akhtar , Khan Manzurul Haque , Sayed M.H. Selim Ullah , Kabir Md. Humayun
Published: August 2011

This cross-sectional study was carried out in some selected arsenic contaminated rural areas of Bangladesh to determine any clinical changes in oral cavity, among the arsenic exposed population through drinking water. Total 600 respondents (200 arsenicosis patients, 200 non-patients but having the history of taking arsenic contaminated water and another 200 arsenic non-exposed). 75.5% of arsenicosis patients had swelled vallate papillae whereas only 44.5% and 8.5% in case of arsenic exposure and non-exposure subjects respectively. The differences were found statistically significant (p<0.001). This study suggests that there is a tendency of developing swelled vallate papillae among the arsenic exposed population. Online: 10 July 2010DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v36i1.4479Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2010; 36: 1-3
Ascitic fluid lipid profile and albumin level
Authors: Ranjith Divya , Ranjith MP , Dutta Debesh , Krishnan MG , KamalRaj R , Vinu K
Published: August 2011

Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient is the best single test for classifying ascites into portal hypertensive and nonportal hypertensive causes. Like Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient, Serum Ascites Lipid Gradient is also a subtraction of serum and ascitic fluid values of lipid fractions. In this comparative study Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient and Serum Ascites Lipid Gradient of 180 patients with ascites of different etiologies: 75 patients with cirrhosis, 15 patients with noncirrhotic portal hypertension, 45 patients with abdominal tuberculosis, 45 patients with intraabdominal malignancy were assayed. The study showed a statistically significant difference between the portal hypertension and nonportal hypertension group for both Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient and Serum Ascites Lipid Gradient (p<0.0001). The sensitivity, specificity of both were found to be comparable. In conclusion like Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient, Serum Ascites Lipid Gradient is also a useful parameter in differentiating high portal pressure ascites from low portal pressure ascites.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v36i1.4656
Assessment of low ABSPI among arsenic exposed and non-exposed populations: A pilot study
Authors: Khan Manzurul Haque , Sarkar Sudipta , Khan Nasreen , Sarwar A.F.M. , Ahmad Sk. Akhtar
Published: August 2011

This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess and compare Ankle Brachial Systolic Pressure Index (ABSPI) amongst 120 arsenic exposed and 120 non-exposed populations of Samta village in Bangladesh. Abnormal ABSPI was more prevalent in arsenic exposed (13.3%) than in non-exposed (2.5%) group. The prevalence of abnormal ABSPI for respondents when adjusted for age, sex, BMI, blood pressure status and diabetic status, the prevalence remain significantly different. The findings suggest that those exposed to arsenic have increased chance of having abnormal ABSP and hence increased chance of peripheral arterial disease in Bangladesh. Online: 18 July 2010DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v36i1.5426Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2010; 36: 23-26
Comparative study of hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide on the anti-atherogenic potential of losartan in cholesterol fed rat
Authors: Islam Md. Zakirul , Rahman Md. Sayedur
Published: August 2011

The study was conducted to evaluate the anti-atherogenic potential of losartan and to assess the effects of hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide on losartan activity in rat. Cholesterol diet (0.5%) for 12 weeks led to significant hyperlipidemia, increased body weight and oxidative stress in erythrocyte. While, losartan, hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide treatment continued for next 12 weeks, losartan showed anti-atherogenic activity reflected by hypolipidemic effect and antioxidant effect in erythrocyte. This activity was abolished by addition of hydrochlorothiazide with losartan but remained unaltered by addition of indapamide with losartan. Atherosclerotic change and oxidative stress were not found in rat aorta, which may be due to short duration and low dose of cholesterol feeding. Hydrochlorothiazide treatment was associated with hypokalemia, which was not present in losartan or indapamide treatment. This study suggests that indapamide might be co-administered with losartan conserving the essential anti-atherogenic potential of losartan.Online: 13 July 2010DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v36i1.5447Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2010; 36: 14-19
Immune Modulation by Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy to Enhance Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Weir Genevieve M. , Liwski Robert S. , Mansour Marc
Published: August 2011

Chemotherapy has been a mainstay in cancer treatment for many years. Despite some success, the cure rate with chemotherapy remains unsatisfactory in some types of cancers, and severe side effects from these treatments are a concern. Recently, understanding of the dynamic interplay between the tumor and immune system has led to the development of novel immunotherapies, including cancer vaccines. Cancer vaccines have many advantageous features, but their use has been hampered by poor immunogenicity. Many developments have increased their potency in pre-clinical models, but cancer vaccines continue to have a poor clinical track record. In part, this could be due to an inability to effectively overcome tumor-induced immune suppression. It had been generally assumed that immune-stimulatory cancer vaccines could not be used in combination with immunosuppressive chemotherapies, but recent evidence has challenged this dogma. Chemotherapies could be used to condition the immune system and tumor to create an environment where cancer vaccines have a better chance of success. Other types of immunotherapies could also be used to modulate the immune system. This review will discuss how immune modulation by chemotherapy or immunotherapy could be used to bolster the effects of cancer vaccines and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these treatments.
Descriptive Study on Parents’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on Antibiotic Use and Misuse in Children with Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Cyprus
Authors: Rouusounides Andreas , Papaevangelou Vassiliki , Hadjipanayis Adamos , Panagakou Sotiria , Theodoridou Maria , Syrogiannopoulos George , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: August 2011

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common in children and represent a significant cause of antibiotic abuse which contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance. A survey was conducted in Cyprus in 2006 to assess parents’ and pediatricians’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) concerning the role of antibiotics in children with URTIs. A school-based stratified geographic clustering sampling was used and a pre-tested KAP questionnaire was distributed. A different questionnaire was distributed to paediatricians. Demographic factors associated with antibiotic misuse were identified by backward logistic regression analysis. The parental overall response rate was 69.3%. Parents (N = 1,462) follow pediatricians advice and rarely administer antibiotics acquired over the counter. Although a third expects an antibiotic prescription for URTI symptoms, most deny pressuring their doctors. Low parental education was the most important independent risk factor positively related to antibiotic misuse (OR = 2.88, 95%CI 2.02 to 4.12, p < 0.001). Pediatricians (N = 33) denied prescribing antibiotics after parental pressure but admit that parents ask for antibiotics and believe they expect antibiotic prescriptions even when not needed. In conclusion, Cypriotic parents trust their primary care providers. Although it appears that antibiotic misuse is not driven by parental pressure, the pediatricians’ view differs.
Increasing and Decreasing Alcohol Use Trajectories Among Older Women in the U.S. Across a 10-Year Interval
Authors: Bobo Janet Kay , Greek April A.
Published: August 2011

Older women who routinely drink alcohol may experience health benefits, but they are also at risk for adverse effects. Despite the importance of their drinking patterns, few studies have analyzed longitudinal data on changes in drinking among community-based samples of women ages 50 and older. Reported here are findings from a semi-parametric group-based model that used data from 4,439 randomly sampled U.S. women who enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and completed ≥3 biannual alcohol assessments during 1998–2008. The best-fitting model based on the drinks per day data had four trajectories labeled as “Increasing Drinkers” (5.3% of sample), “Decreasing Drinkers” (5.9%), “Stable Drinkers” (24.2%), and “Non/Infrequent Drinkers” (64.6%). Using group assignments generated by the trajectory model, one adjusted logistic regression analysis contrasted the groups with low alcohol intake in 1998 (Increasing Drinkers and Non/Infrequent Drinkers). In this model, baseline education, physical activity, cigarette smoking, and binge drinking were significant factors. Another analysis compared the groups with higher intake in 1998 (Decreasing Drinkers versus Stable Drinkers). In this comparison, baseline depression, cigarette smoking, binge drinking, and retirement status were significant. Findings underscore the need to periodically counsel all older women on the risks and benefits of alcohol use.
Dynamics of Information as Natural Computation
Authors: Dodig Crnkovic Gordana
Published: August 2011

Processes considered rendering information dynamics have been studied, among others in: questions and answers, observations, communication, learning, belief revision, logical inference, game-theoretic interactions and computation. This article will put the computational approaches into a broader context of natural computation, where information dynamics is not only found in human communication and computational machinery but also in the entire nature. Information is understood as representing the world (reality as an informational web) for a cognizing agent, while information dynamics (information processing, computation) realizes physical laws through which all the changes of informational structures unfold. Computation as it appears in the natural world is more general than the human process of calculation modeled by the Turing machine. Natural computing is epitomized through the interactions of concurrent, in general asynchronous computational processes which are adequately represented by what Abramsky names “the second generation models of computation” [1] which we argue to be the most general representation of information dynamics.
Lobocrassins A–E: New Cembrane-Type Diterpenoids from the Soft Coral Lobophytum crassum
Authors: Kao Chia-Ying , Su Jui-Hsin , Lu Mei-Chin , Hwang Tsong-Long , Wang Wei-Hsien , Chen Jih-Jung , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Weng Ching-Feng , Fang Lee-Shing , Wen Zhi-Hong , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: August 2011

Five new cembrane-type diterpenoids, lobocrassins A–E (1–5), were isolated from the soft coral Lobophytum crassum. The structures of cembranes 1–5 were established by spectroscopic and chemical methods and by comparison of the spectral data with those of known cembrane analogues. Lobocrassin A (1) is the first cembranoid possessing an α-chloromethyl-α-hydroxy-γ-lactone functionality and is the first chlorinated cembranoid from soft corals belonging to the genus Lobophytum. Lobocrassins B (2) and C (3) were found to be the stereoisomers of the known cembranes, 14-deoxycrassin (6) and pseudoplexaurol (7), respectively. Lobocrassin B (2) exhibited modest cytotoxicity toward K562, CCRF-CEM, Molt4, and HepG2 tumor cells and displayed significant inhibitory effects on the generation of superoxide anion and the release of elastase by human neutrophils.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Some New Pyrazoles, Fused Pyrazolo[3,4-d]-pyrimidine and 1,2-Dihydroimidazo-[2,1-c][1,2,4]triazin-6-one Derivatives
Authors: Gomha Sobhi Mohamed , Hassaneen Huwaida M.E.
Published: August 2011

A novel series of 7,7-diphenyl-1,2-dihydroimidazo[2,1-c][1,2,4]triazin-6(7H)-one 6a–h, were easily prepared via reactions of novel 2-hydrazinyl-4,4-diphenyl-1H-imidazol-5(4H)-one (2) with hydrazonoyl halides 3a–h. In addition, we also examined the reaction of compound 2 with commercially available active methylene compounds to afford new pyrazoles containing an imidazolone moiety, expected to be biologically active. The structures of the synthesized compounds were assigned on the basis of elemental analysis, IR, 1H-NMR and mass spectral data. The antifungal and antibacterial activities of the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated.
Isoconiferoside, a New Phenolic Glucoside from Seeds of Panax ginseng
Authors: Kim Jeong Ah , Son Jeong Hyun , Yang Seo Young , Kim Young Ho
Published: August 2011

A new phenolic glucoside, isoconiferoside (1), was isolated from the seeds of Panax ginseng (Araliaceae). The structure was determined to be 9-O-[b-D-glucopyranosyl-(1®6)-b-D-glucopyranosyl]-trans-coniferyl alcohol based on spectroscopic analyses (1H- and 13C-NMR, DEPT, COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) and acid hydrolysis.
Corydaline Inhibits Multiple Cytochrome P450 and UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase Enzyme Activities in Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Ji Hye Young , Liu Kwang Hyeon , Lee Hyeri , Im Sae Rom , Shim Hyun Joo , Son Miwon , Lee Hye Suk
Published: August 2011

Corydaline is a bioactive alkaloid with various antiacetylcholinesterase, antiallergic, and antinociceptive activities found in the medicinal herb Corydalis Tubers. The inhibitory potential of corydaline on the activities of seven major human cytochrome P450 and four UDP-glucuronosyltransferase enzymes in human liver microsomes was investigated using LC-tandem MS. Corydaline was found to inhibit CYP2C19-catalyzed S-mephenytoin-4’-hydroxylatoin and CYP2C9-catalyzed diclofenac 4-hydroxylation, with Ki values of 1.7 and 7.0 mM, respectively. Corydaline also demonstrated moderate inhibition of UGT1A1-mediated 17b-estradiol 3-glucuronidation and UGT1A9-mediated propofol glucuronidation with Ki values of 57.6 and 37.3 mM, respectively. In the presence of corydaline, CYP3A-mediated midazolam hydroxylation showed a decrease with increasing preincubation time in a dose-dependent manner with Ki values of 30.0 mM. These in vitro results suggest that corydaline should be evaluated for potential pharmacokinetic drug interactions in vivo due to potent inhibition of CYP2C19 and CYP2C9.
Docking Studies and α-Substitution Effects on the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of β-Hydroxy-β-arylpropanoic Acids
Authors: Savić Jelena S. , Dilber Sanda P. , Marković Bojan D. , Milenković Marina T. , Vladimirov Sote M. , Juranić Ivan O.
Published: August 2011

Six β-hydroxy-β-aryl propanoic acids were synthesised using a modification of Reformatsky reaction which has already been reported. These acids belong to the aryl propanoic acid class of compounds, structurally similar to the NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, and an anti-inflammatory activity is thus expected. The aim of this work was to determine anti-inflammatory activity, examine gastric tolerability, and to carry out molecular docking experiments to identify potential COX-2 inhibitors among the β-hydroxy-β-aryl propanoic acids, and to elucidate the effect α-methyl substitution on the anti-inflammatory activity. Anti-inflammatory activity and gastric tolerability were determined on rats using carragenan induced paw oedema method, and docking studies were carried out using Autodock v4.0.1. The range of ED50 values is between 127 µmol/kg and 15 µmol/kg, while the result for ibuprofen is 51.7 µmol/kg. Only slight hyperaemia or few petechiae were spotted on rat’s stomach. The results indicate that all compounds possess significant anti-inflammatory activity after oral administration, and that 2-methyl-3-hydroxy-3,3-diphenyl-propanoic acid has greatest activity, surpassing that of ibuprofen, a standard NSAID. Another compound, 3-hydroxy-3,3-diphenylpropanoic acid, shows activity matching that of ibuprofen, and is non-chiral and is proven to be non-toxic. The most of investigated compounds have interactions with P3 anchor site like COX-2 selective inhibitors. No tested substances or ibuprofen produced any significant gastric lesions.
Fourth Generation Phosphorus-Containing Dendrimers: Prospective Drug and Gene Delivery Carrier
Authors: Shcharbin D. , Dzmitruk V. , Shakhbazau A. , Goncharova N. , Seviaryn I. , Kosmacheva S. , Potapnev M. , Pedziwiatr-Werbicka E. , Bryszewska M. , Talabaev M. , Chernov A. , Kulchitsky V. , Caminade A.-M. , Majoral J.-P.
Published: August 2011

Research concerning new targeting delivery systems for pharmacologically active molecules and genetic material is of great importance. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of fourth generation (P4) cationic phosphorus-containing dendrimers to bind fluorescent probe 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonate (ANS), anti-neoplastic drug cisplatin, anti-HIV siRNA siP24 and its capability to deliver green fluorescent protein gene (pGFP) into cells. The interaction between P4 and ANS (as the model drug) was investigated. The binding constant and the number of binding centers per one molecule of P4 were determined. In addition, the dendriplex between P4 and anti-HIV siRNA siP24 was characterized using circular dichroism, fluorescence polarization and zeta-potential methods; the average hydrodynamic diameter of the dendriplex was calculated using zeta-size measurements. The efficiency of transfection of pGFP using P4 was determined in HEK293 cells and human mesenchymal stem cells, and the cytotoxicity of the P4-pGFP dendriplex was studied. Furthermore, enhancement of the toxic action of the anti-neoplastic drug cisplatin by P4 dendrimers was estimated. Based on the results, the fourth generation cationic phosphorus-containing dendrimers seem to be a good drug and gene delivery carrier candidate.
A Longitudinal Study on the Carbon Emissions of a New Residential Development
Authors: Heinonen Jukka , Säynäjoki Antti , Junnila Seppo
Published: August 2011

Buildings account for nearly 50% of all greenhouse gases globally. While this has been widely recognized, the GHG mitigation strategies have traditionally concentrated on reducing the use phase emissions, as over 90% of the emissions are generated during the use phase according to several studies. However, two current developments increase the importance of the construction phase emissions and the embodied emissions of the building materials. Firstly, the improvements in the energy efficiency of buildings directly increase the relative share of the construction phase emissions. Secondly, the notification of the temporal allocation of the emissions increases the importance of the carbon spike from construction. While these perspectives have been noted, few studies exist that combine the two perspectives of the construction and the use phase. In this paper, we analyze the implications of low-carbon residential construction on the life cycle emissions of a residential area with a case study. Furthermore, we demonstrate that when the temporal allocation of the emissions is taken into account, the construction phase emissions can hinder or even reverse the carbon mitigation effect of low-carbon buildings for decades.
Towards a Religious View of Tourism: Negotiating Faith Perspectives on Tourism
Authors: Olsen Daniel H.
Published: August 2011

In recent years there has been a growth of academic literature related to the intersections between religion and tourism. While much of this research has taken place from an industry and academic perspective, little has been written on how leaders of particular religious faiths critique
and evaluate secular understandings of religiously informed and motivated travel from a theological standpoint. The purpose of this article is to address this paucity of research by broadly examining how religious leaders and groups view tourism as a social phenomenon. Rather than this article
being based on case-based primary research that highlights and critiques the specific views of tourism of particular religious traditions, this article offers a reflection on how scholars interested in investigating the views of tourism of religious leaders and groups can begin to answer the
question, "how would one study how religious leaders view tourism?" Five research themes are suggested to understand religious views of tourism, including religious perspectives on appropriate leisure, religious views of hospitality, gendered religious spatial practices, religious views of
the human body, and religious attitudes towards the arts. The article concludes with a call to tourism scholars to take religious views of tourism more seriously in any discussion related to religion and tourism.
The Group Package Tour and Sociability: Contesting Meanings
Authors: Heimtun Bente
Published: August 2011

This article explores midlife single women's positive and negative perceptions of and experiences with the sociability offered on group package tours. Qualitative data were gathered from 32 women through two sets of focus group interviews and “solicited” diaries. The women
focused on the joy of bonding with the other tourists in the group. This feeling gave them a sense of social inclusion in tourism spaces that were often constructed solely for families and people traveling with significant others. For some of the women, group membership was thus an agreeable
substitute when lacking travel companionship. However, the somewhat enforced sociability with strangers imbued in group package tours also clashed with the midlife single women's need for independence and freedom of choice. This ambivalence suggested that group tour membership also was challenging
for the women. In order to attract and accommodate to the needs of midlife single women tour operators should thus be aware of the complexity of this subject position.
Critical elements in defining work-based identity in a post-apartheid South Africa
Authors: Lloyd Sandra , Roodt Gert , Odendaal Aletta
Published: August 2011

Orientation: The main focus of the study was to answer the question: ‘Who am I at work?’ in a post-apartheid South African organisation.Research purpose: The aim of the specific research questions was to determine which life sphere and life role elements, and which work-based identity facets were significant in forming work-based identity.Motivation for the study: The findings of the study will enable the formulation of an integrative definition of work-based identity applicable to the South African context.Research design, approach and method: Qualitative data was collected by means of unstructured interviews with 29 employees representing a range of job titles, levels and demographics in a large South African manufacturing company. A grounded theory approach (open and axial coding) was used to analyse the data.Main findings: Distinctive individual self-definitions and a number of common themes integrating social and personal identity perspectives emerged from the data. These themes provided a sound basis for the proposed integrative model to define work-based identity.Practical/managerial implications: The findings of this research will assist human resource practitioners to develop training interventions and management strategies for the potential enhancement of work-based identities. This will result in a more engaged and harmonised workforce.Contribution/value-add: This was the first study of its kind to identify and delineate significant work-based identity elements for the formation of a work-based identity within a South African work context.