bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology Control of Alzheimer Amyloid β Peptide (1-42) on the Multivalent Sulfonated Sugar Interface
Authors: Miura Yoshiko , Fukuda Tomohiro
Published: March 2013

The amyloidosis of amyloid β (1-42) was investigated by the well-defined glyco-cluster interface. We prepared monovalent, divalent, and trivalent 6-sulfo-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine immobilized substrates. The interaction between amyloid β and 6-sulfo-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine was amplified by multivalency of divalent and trivalent 6-sulfo-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. The morphology of amyloid β were investigated by AFM, and we found the morphology of amyloid β aggregates were determined by the kinds of displayed saccharide-valency. Amyloid β had tendency to form spherical objects on the multivalent 6-sulfo-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, but form fibrils on the monovalent 6-sulfo-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Spherical amyloid β was more toxic than fibrillar amyloid β to HeLa cells. These results suggested that the multivalency of was significant in its morphology and aggregation effects at the surface of the cell membrane mimic.
Role of Oxidation State of Vanadium in Vanadium Oxide-Hematite Nanoparticles
Authors: Sorescu Monica , Xu Tianhong , Wade Collin
Published: March 2013

Single phase, a FeVO4 triclinic crystalline structure was successfully synthesized by annealing the mechanochemically milled xV2O5·(1-x)α-Fe2O3 composites (x = 0.5) at 550 °C for 1 h. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Mössbauer spectroscopy were combined for a detailed study of the assisting role of the mechanochemical milling process. Mechanochemical milling homogeneously mixed the starting materials of α-Fe2O3 and V2O5 and substantially decreased their average grain sizes. The partially V5+-substituted α-Fe2O3 phase and Fe3+-substituted V2O5 could be the important intermediate phases in the production of FeVO4 single phase. In addition, xV2O3·(1-x)α-Fe2O3 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7) solid solutions were successfully synthesized by mechanochemical activation of V2O3 and α-Fe2O3 mixtures. Complete solid solutions exist after 12 h ball-milling time for all studied x values. The synthesized xV2O3·(1-x)α-Fe2O3 solid solutions with x = 0.5 and 0.7 were mainly paramagnetic at room temperature. The study demonstrates that the transformation pathway is related to the valence state of the metallic specie of the oxide used in connection with hematite.
Synthesis and Characterization of Mn Doped ZnS Quantum Dots from a Single Source Precursor
Authors: Malik M. Azad , O’Brien Paul , Revaprasadu N.
Published: March 2013

Nanoparticles of ZnS and Mn-doped ZnS capped with TOPO (tri-n-octylphosphine oxide) and close to mono-dispersed have been prepared by a single source route using bis(diethyldithiocarbamato) zinc(II) as a precursor. The nanoparticles obtained show quantum size effects in their optical spectra and ZnS nanoparticles exhibit near band-edge luminescence. Clear difference in photoluminescence results between ZnS and ZnS:Mn samples. Changes in Mn-doping levels are shown by the changes in photoluminescence intensity. The most intense photoluminescence was observed for 1% and the least intense for 5% doping level. ESR spectra and ICP results confirm the presence of Mn in ZnS quantum dots and also correspond to the amount of Mn in each ZnS:Mn sample.

The Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED), X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) show the material to be of the hexagonal phase. The crystallinity of the material was also evident from High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) which gave well-defined images of nanosize particles with clear lattice fringes.
Weed Management Strategies to Reduce Herbicide Use in Zero-Till Rice–Wheat Cropping Systems of the Indo-Gangetic Plains
Authors: Kumar Virender , Singh Samar , Chhokar Rajender S. , Malik Ram K. , Brainard Daniel C. , Ladha Jagdish K.
Published: March 2013

In the rice–wheat (RW) systems of the Indo-Gangetic Plains of South Asia, conservation tillage practices, including zero-tillage (ZT), are being promoted to address emerging problems such as (1) shortages of labor and water, (2) declining factor productivity, (3) deterioration of soil health, and (4) climate change. Despite multiple benefits of ZT, weed control remains a major challenge to adoption, resulting in more dependence on herbicides for weed control. Alternative management strategies are needed to reduce dependence on herbicides and minimize risks associated with their overuse, including evolution of herbicide resistance. The objectives of this review are to (1) highlight and synthesize research efforts in nonchemical weed management in ZT RW systems and (2) identify future weed ecology and management research needs to facilitate successful adoption of these systems. In ZT RW systems, crop residue can play a central role in suppressing weeds through mulch effects on emergence and seed predation. In ZT rice, wheat residue mulch (5 t ha−1) reduced weed density by 22 to 76% and promoted predation of RW weeds, including littleseed canarygrass and barnyardgrass seeds. For ZT wheat, rice residue mulch (6 to 10 t ha−1) in combination with early sowing reduced emergence of littleseed canarygrass by over 80%. Other promising nonchemical approaches that can be useful in suppressing weeds in ZT RW systems include use of certified seeds, weed-competitive cultivars, stale seedbed practices, living mulches (e.g., sesbania coculture), and water and nutrient management practices that shift weed–crop competition in favor of the crop. However, more research on emergence characteristics and mulching effects of different crop residues on key weeds under ZT, cover cropping, and breeding crops for weed suppression will strengthen nonchemical weed management programs. Efforts are needed to integrate multiple tactics and to evaluate long-term effects of nonchemical weed management practices on RW cropping system sustainability.
Crop Response to Carryover of Mesotrione Residues in the Field
Authors: Riddle Rachel N. , O'Sullivan John , Swanton Clarence J. , Van Acker Rene C.
Published: March 2013

Two field residue studies were conducted from 2005 to 2007 in Simcoe, Ontario, Canada, to evaluate the effects of mesotrione soil residues on injury, plant dry weight, and yield of sugar beet, cucumber, pea, green bean, and soybean and to verify the potential of reducing a 2-yr field-residue study (conventional residue carryover) to a 1-yr field study (simulated residue-carryover study) by growing these crops in soil treated with reduced rates of mesotrione applied in the same year. There was a significant difference in mesotrione carryover between 2006 and 2007 and differences between years can be explained by differences in soil pH and soil moisture. The conventional and the simulated residue-carryover studies successfully measured mesotrione persistence and rotational crop sensitivity. Both studies showed that sugar beet was the most-sensitive crop with injury, plant dry weight reduction, and yield loss because of mesotrione residues as high as 100%. Green bean was the next most-sensitive crop to mesotrione residues followed by pea, cucumber, and soybean. The simulated residue-carryover study provided a more-rigorous test of rotational crop sensitivity to mesotrione residues than the conventional residue-carryover study, especially at higher rates for the more-sensitive crops. For the other crops, responses to mesotrione residues were similar between the conventional and simulated residue-carryover studies.
Herbicide-Resistant Weeds in the Canadian Prairies: 2007 to 2011
Authors: Beckie Hugh J. , Lozinski Chris , Shirriff Scott , Brenzil Clark. A.
Published: March 2013

A late-summer survey of herbicide-resistant (HR) weeds was conducted in Alberta in 2007, Manitoba in 2008, and Saskatchewan in 2009, totaling 1,000 randomly selected annually cropped fields. In addition, we screened 1,091 weed seed samples (each sample from one field) submitted by Prairie growers between 2007 and 2011. Of 677 fields where wild oat samples were collected, 298 (44%) had an HR biotype. Group 1 (acetyl CoA carboxylase inhibitor)-HR wild oat was confirmed in 275 fields (41%), up from 15% in previous baseline surveys (2001 to 2003). Group 2 (acetolactate synthase)-HR wild oat was found in 12% of fields (vs. 8% in 2001 to 2003). Group 8 (triallate, difenzoquat)-HR wild oat was identified in only 8% of fields (not tested in 2001 to 2003); the frequency of occurrence of group 1+2-HR wild oat was similar (8%, vs. 3% in 2001 to 2003). Group 1-HR green foxtail was found in 27% of 209 fields sampled for the weed (vs. 6% in 2001 to 2003). Group 2-HR spiny sowthistle was confirmed in all Alberta fields sampled (vs. 67% in 2001); common chickweed was found mainly in Alberta in 40% of fields (vs. 17% in 2001). Group 2-HR weed biotypes not previously detected in the baseline surveys included false cleavers mainly in Alberta (17% of fields) and Saskatchewan (21%), Powell amaranth in Manitoba (16% of fields), wild mustard (three populations in Saskatchewan and Manitoba), and wild buckwheat (one population in Alberta). No sampled weed populations across the Prairies were found to be resistant to herbicides from group 4 (synthetic auxins), group 9 (glyphosate), or group 10 (glufosinate). Based on the proportion of total field area at each site infested with HR weeds, it is estimated that 7.7 million ha (29% of annually cropped land) are infested with HR weeds (eight-fold increase from 2001 to 2003), in a total field area of 9.9 million ha (37%)—over a two-fold increase. Of 816 cases of HR wild oat identified from submitted samples, 69% were group 1-HR, 15% group 2-HR, and 16% group 1+2-HR. Additionally, there were 10 populations of group 1-HR green foxtail in Saskatchewan or Manitoba, and six populations of group 1-HR Persian darnel in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan. Various group 2-HR broadleaf weeds were identified, including 17 wild mustard populations mainly from Saskatchewan and 39 cleavers populations across the three Prairie provinces. Herbicide-use data from 2006 to 2010 indicated continued reliance on group 1 herbicides in cereal crops and group 2 herbicides in pulse crops.
Arc Spraying 3Cr13 Molten Drop Impact Stress Numerical Analysis
Authors: Li C.H. , Wang S. , Zhao T.T. , Ding Y.C.
Published: March 2013

In the thermal spraying process, the process for the molten metal particles to hit against matrix to form coating
experiences great change temperature. Since the coating materials has different thermal physical properties with the
matrix materials, the residual stress is surely left in the coating. Much bigger residual stress not only restricts coating
thickness but also primarily affects coating binding strength. Having analyzed reason for residual stress in the thermal
spraying coating and matrix, the theoretical model of arc spraying 3Cr13 molten drop impact stress is built and numerical
simulation is done for this theoretical model. The result indicates that: the faster the molten drop speed is, the greater the
pressure that matrix produces. When the molten drop's collision speed is 100m/s, it is not obvious for the matrix's
pressure stress and when the collision speed is increased to 200m/s, the pressure stress produced in the matrix can
maximize 5500Mpa; the faster the molten drop's collision speed is, the higher extent the molten drop's flattening is,
which is more beneficial to increase coating’s bonding strength. The radius for the molten drop in the radius of 35μm
becomes 80~110μm after collision and the flat ratio of the molten drop particle is about 3. The theoretical analysis is
consistent with the experiment result.
The Influence of Varying Hip Angle and Pelvis Position on Muscle Recruitment Patterns of the Hip Abductor Muscles During the Clam Exercise
Authors: Willcox Emma L. , Burden Adrian M.
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Within-subject, repeated-measures design.

Objectives

To determine the influence of pelvis position and hip angle on activation of the hip abductors while performing the clam exercise.

Background

Therapeutic exercises are regularly employed to strengthen the hip abductors to improve lower-limb and pelvis stability. While previous studies primarily have compared the activity of hip abductor muscles between various exercises, few studies have examined the influence of varying the techniques of particular exercises on the relative activation of hip abductor muscles. Such information could be used to facilitate appropriate exercise instruction.

Methods

Muscle activation in 17 healthy, asymptomatic volunteers during 6 variations of the clam exercise was analyzed with surface electromyography. Electromyographic signals were recorded from the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and tensor fasciae latae. Normalized data were examined using 2-way, repeated-measures analyses of variance.

Results

The magnitude of gluteus maximus and gluteus medius activation was significantly greater when the pelvis was in neutral rather than reclined. Furthermore, gluteus medius activation was greatest when the hip was flexed to 60°. Activation of the tensor fasciae latae was not influenced by pelvis position or hip angle.

Conclusion

A neutral pelvis position is advocated to optimize recruitment of the gluteus maximus and gluteus medius during the clam exercise. Increasing the hip flexion angle increases activation of the gluteus medius. Tensor fasciae latae activity was relatively low and generally unaffected by variations of the clam exercise. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(5):325–331. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4004
Clinical and Morphological Changes Following 2 Rehabilitation Programs for Acute Hamstring Strain Injuries: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Silder Amy , Sherry Marc A. , Sanfilippo Jennifer , Tuite Michael J. , Hetzel Scott J. , Heiderscheit Bryan C.
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Randomized, double-blind, parallel-group clinical trial.

Objectives

To assess differences between a progressive agility and trunk stabilization rehabilitation program and a progressive running and eccentric strengthening rehabilitation program in recovery characteristics following an acute hamstring injury, as measured via physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Background

Determining the type of rehabilitation program that most effectively promotes muscle and functional recovery is essential to minimize reinjury risk and to optimize athlete performance.

Methods

Individuals who sustained a recent hamstring strain injury were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 rehabilitation programs: (1) progressive agility and trunk stabilization or (2) progressive running and eccentric strengthening. MRI and physical examinations were conducted before and after completion of rehabilitation.

Results

Thirty-one subjects were enrolled, 29 began rehabilitation, and 25 completed rehabilitation. There were few differences in clinical or morphological outcome measures between rehabilitation groups across time, and reinjury rates were low for both rehabilitation groups after return to sport (4 of 29 subjects had reinjuries). Greater craniocaudal length of injury, as measured on MRI before the start of rehabilitation, was positively correlated with longer return-to-sport time. At the time of return to sport, although all subjects showed a near-complete resolution of pain and return of muscle strength, no subject showed complete resolution of injury as assessed on MRI.

Conclusion

The 2 rehabilitation programs employed in this study yielded similar results with respect to hamstring muscle recovery and function at the time of return to sport. Evidence of continuing muscular healing is present after completion of rehabilitation, despite the appearance of normal physical strength and function on clinical examination.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(5):284–299. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4452
The Effectiveness of a Manual Therapy and Exercise Protocol in Patients With Thumb Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Villafañe Jorge H. , Cleland Joshua A. , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: March 2013

Study Design

Double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Objective

To examine the effectiveness of a manual therapy and exercise approach relative to a placebo intervention in individuals with carpometacarpal (CMC) joint osteoarthritis (OA).

Background

Recent studies have reported the outcomes of exercise, joint mobilization, and neural mobilization interventions used in isolation in patients with CMC joint OA. However, it is not known if using a combination of these interventions as a multimodal approach to treatment would further improve outcomes in this patient population.

Methods

Sixty patients, 90% female (mean ± SD age, 82 ± 6 years), with CMC joint OA were randomly assigned to receive a multimodal manual treatment approach that included joint mobilization, neural mobilization, and exercise, or a sham intervention, for 12 sessions over 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure was pain. Secondary outcome measures included pressure pain threshold over the first CMC joint, scaphoid, and hamate, as well as pinch and strength measurements. All outcome measures were collected at baseline, immediately following the intervention, and at 1 and 2 months following the end of the intervention. Mixed-model analyses of variance were used to examine the effects of the interventions on each outcome, with group as the between-subject variable and time as the within-subject variable.

Results

The mixed-model analysis of variance revealed a group-by-time interaction (F = 47.58, P<.001) for pain intensity, with the patients receiving the multimodal intervention experiencing a greater reduction in pain compared to those receiving the placebo intervention at the end of the intervention, as well as at 1 and 2 months after the intervention (P<.001; all group differences greater than 3.0 cm, which is greater than the minimal clinically important difference of 2.0 cm). A significant group-by-time interaction (F = 3.19, P = .025) was found for pressure pain threshold over the hamate bone immediately after the intervention; however, the interaction was no longer significant at 1 and 2 months postintervention.

Conclusion

This clinical trial provides evidence that a combination of joint mobilization, neural mobilization, and exercise is more beneficial in treating pain than a sham intervention in patients with CMC joint OA. However, the treatment approach has limited value in improving pressure pain thresholds, as well as pinch and grip strength. Future studies should include several therapists, a measure of function, and long-term outcomes. Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN37143779.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(4):204–213. Epub 13 March 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4524
Microsurgical Excision of Olfactory Groove Meningeomas, Comparative Studies of Different Surgical Approaches
Authors: Alam Shamsul , Uddin Abu Naim Wakil , Mondle Md Shamsuzzaman , Khair Abul , Farazi Mohosin All , Majumder Md Mashiur Rahman
Published: March 2013

To review the surgical approaches, techniques, outcomes, and recurrence rates in a series of 6 olfactory groove meningioma (OGM) patients operated from January 2010 to April 2011.Methods: Six patients underwent craniotomy and micro-neurosurgical removal of olfactory groove meningioma maximum. Tumor diameter varied from 5 to 8.5 cm among six cases, 2 cases underwent glabellar mini craniotomy another 2 by bifrontal approach and rest of them were by frontolateral approach. Result: Total removal was possible in all cases. Histopathology revealed typical meningioma (WHO grade 1). there was no operative mortality and no permanent focal neurological deficit except anosmia. One patient developed leak and two cases meningitis which was resolved by lumber drain and antibiotic therapy. No tumor recurrence within six months of followup. For the removal of large olfactory groove meningiomas we used three different surgical approaches: frontolateral approaches, bifrontal approach and glabellar mini craniotomy. We consider the frontolateral approach is an alternative, if not superior, to standard bifrontal approaches. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.13942 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.5-7
Elective Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI) in 100 Cases in a Centre Without On-site Cardiac Surgery Support
Authors: Badrul Md Nurul Afsar , Ahmed Kamal , Rahman Sufia
Published: March 2013

Since its introduction in 1977, Percutaneous Coronary  Interventions (PCI) is an important tool in the treatment of  coronary artery disease (CAD). It is a retrospective analysis  of data of 100 cases (132 vessels). The mean age was 50.9  years (range 30-70) with 90 (90%) male and 10 (10%) female.  Indication of PCI includes acute and old MI, Chronic stable  angina and unstable angina were 48 (48%), 33 (33%) and  19(19%) respectively. Procedure done in total 132 vessels  among 100 patients. most of the cases were single vessels  disease (SVD) {68 (68%} followed by double vessel disease  (DVD) {30(30%)} , triple vessel disease (TVD) {02 (02%)}  and chronic total occlusion (CTO) {02 (02%)}.Cobalt  chromium was commonly used stent (117 (88.6%) followed by  drug illuting stent (DES) 12 (9.1%) and bare metal stent  (BMS) 3 (2.3%). Among the site of the stent insertion left  anterior descending (LAD) 62 (47%), right coronary lesion  (RCA) 37 (28), left circumplex artery (LCX) 33  (25%).Maximum stent length was 35 mm, minimum 10mm.  Maximum stent diameter was 3.5 mm whereas minimum  diameter 2.5 mm. The mean pretreatment reference diameter  was 2.55 ± 0.20 mm and post treatment diameter 2.70 ± 0.45  mm. Angiographic, procedural and clinical success rate were  100%, 98% and 98% respectively. Major adverse  cardiovascular event (MACE) {periprocedural MI} occurred  in 2 (02 %) cases. Minor cardiovascular complications  revealed vascular haematoma 2 (02%), bleeding from access  site in 1 (01%), transient ventricular fibrillation (VF) in 3  (03%) cases. There was no hospital death, emergency CABG  before discharge from hospital. Angiographic, procedural and  clinical success rate were excellent with a little MACE and  event free survival within 30 days follow up. So, PCI is a safe  and effective method of myocardial revascularization  irrespective of lesion morphology and type of stents used at  immediate and 30 days follow up. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14106 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.8-11
The Effect of Parenteral Infusion of Amino Acids in Burn Patient
Authors: Nahar Kamrun , Naher Zeba-un , Khanam Matira , Akhter Shaheen , Bashar Tahmina , Arslan M Iqbal
Published: March 2013

Adequate nutritional support may prevent weight loss  following severe burn injury. However, persistently low  levels of serum albumin, transferring and serum total  protein in burn patients have suggested that a protein  deficiency may continue to exist which is out of proportion  to energy requirements.  This interventional study cross sectional study was done in  the Department of Biochemistry, Bangabandhu Sheikh  Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh  during January 2008 to December 2008. A total of 40 acute  burn injury (within 24 hours of burn) patients of 20-45  years age with 15%-30% burn were selected for this study  as case. The study subjects were divided into two groups:  Group I represent superficial burn & Group II represents  deep burn.  The mean age of 28.35±6.81 years and 30.85±7.32 years in  group I and group II respectively. The number of male in  Group-I was 08 and Group-II was 08 and male female ratio  was 2:3. The mean serum total protein before infusion of  amino acid in Group-I was 55.31±3.58 g/L and in Group-II  was 52.01±2.26 g/L (p<0.001). The mean serum total  protein after infusion of amino acid in Group-I was  68.02±2.04 g/L and in Group-II was 61.86±2.49g/L  (p<0.001). The mean serum albumin before infusion of  amino acid in Group-I was 27.6±2.88 g/L and in Group-II  was 25.57±1.89 g/L (p<0.001). The mean serum albumin  after infusion of amino acid in Group-I was 22.29±3.50 g/L  and in Group-II was 19.83±2.86 g/L (p<0.001). In group-I,  serum total protein was increased by 22.98% after infusion  and in group-II, that was increased by 18.94% (p<0.01).  In group-I, serum albumin was decreased by 19.24% after  infusion and in group-II, that was decreased by 22.45%  (p<0.05). Serum total protein significantly increased after  infusion of amino acid but serum albumin significantly  decreased after infusion of amino acid. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14107 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.12-15
Role of Ultrasound In The Management of De'Quervain's Disease
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Kamrul , Rahman M Habibur , Sobhan Fauzia , Shoma Farzana Khan , Walid Chowdhury Mohammad
Published: March 2013

This prospective type of experimental study was carried out to determine the improvement of symptoms by ultrasound therapy in management of de'Quervain's disease. It was done in the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation in Dhaka medical college hospital during the period of 30th January 2008 to 30th July 2008.The diagnosis of de'Quervain's disease confirmed by history and clinical examination(Finkelstein test). 50 patients were selected and randomly divided into two groups. Group-A patients were treated with thumb splint,NSAIDS and ADL. Group-B patients were treated with thumb splint, NSAIDS, ADL and ultrasound therapy. Each patients was assessed by pain score, visual analogue scale(VAS), grading of tenderness and swelling. Mean age was 41.02 years. Female and male ratio was 7.5:1. Most patients occupation was housewife 40(80%) and had a precipitating factor as wringing of cloths 31(62%). History of recurrence was found in 7(14%). Most of the patients developed pain gradually 72%(36). Post treatment VAS score improved significantly in group B(p<0.05), in groupB 96%(24) and in group A 52%(13) patients had VAS score 0 to 4. Post treatment significantly (p<0.01) higher number of patients were in swelling score. So in group B(84%) compared to group A (44%), After treatment pain score showed significant improvement (p<0.01) in group B patients (72%) compared to group A(24%). In group A, 16%(4) and in group B 32%(8) patient were completely cured(No pain,no tenderness and no swelling). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14112 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.31-35
Prognostic Value of High-sensitivity C - reactive protein in Acute ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Basak Shishir Kumar , Akhtaruzzaman KM , Kundu Ashok Kumar , Dey Sudhangshu Ranjan , Uddin Md Faruque
Published: March 2013

Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) is an inflammatory condition. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive inflammatory marker. Elevated plasma CRP levels detected in the first few days of AMI is a predictor of unfavourable short and long term outcome. This cross sectional comparative study included 60 patients of 28-85 years with acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) admitted within 24 hours of onset of chest pain in coronary care unit (CCU) of Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital. Based on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hS-CRP) levels on the first day, the patients were divided into two groups: Group-I Low hs-CRP group (?10 mg/L, n=22); Group-II High hs-CRP group (?10 mg/L, n=38). Clinical and echocardiographic prognostic variables were compared between two groups. The mean values of 1st and 3rd day hs-CRP levels of acute STEMI patients who developed the worse outcomes and who did not develop the outcomes are also compared. Among the in-hospital outcomes in group-I and group-II, (recurrent angina, cardiogenic shock, heart failure (HF), arrythmias, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), wall motion abnormality (WMA), hospital stay and mortality) only arrhythmia was found significantly higher in high hs-CRP group (36.4% vs 76.3%, P<0.01). On the other hand, the patients who developed these worse outcomes had significantly higher mean values of both 1st day and 3rd day hs-CRP compared to those who did not develop these outcomes. Mean values of 1st and 3rd day hs-CRP (mg/L) of patients who develops recurrent angina or not was 68.42 (SD 12.56) and 110.14 (SD 10.66) vs 29.08 (SD 5.83) and 36.74 (SD 6.64) p<0.01. Among patients with arrhythmias, the values were 62.77 (SD 9.06) and 83.94 (SD 10.0) vs 14.23 (SD 2.92) and 35.20 (SD 7.65) p<0.001. Hs-CRP can be used as a simple and cost effective tool for prediction of in-hospital prognosis in patients with acute STEMI. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14113 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.36-39
Study on Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Rhinorrhoea: A Birmingham Experience
Authors: Sayed Mohammad Saleh Uddin , Dunn Chris J , Alaani A , Johnson Alan
Published: March 2013

Spontaneous Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhoea is not very common. The aim of this study is to identify the common features in the study group of patients with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhoea, to develop a hypothesis to explain the cause of this condition and to investigate the outcome of surgical techniques adopted to repair the leak. In this retrospective study we have reviewed all the cases of spontaneous CSF leaks attending and receiving treatment from the Department of ENT at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, from 1992 to 2002. Among the total number of 34 patients with CSF leaks, 15 were spontaneous in nature and formed our study group, of these 15 patients 14 were female; with age range from 37 to 70 years and a median age of 50 years. All the female patients were obese with a body mass index higher than normal range. We tried to identify common factors in the study group and it was evident that female sex, obesity and age play a key role in this condition. Follow up period ranged from 2 to 98 months and thirteen patients were asymptomatic but two patients remained symptomatic, one of these despite repeated surgical intervention. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14114 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.40-43
Leprosy: Need Early Detection And Early Treatment
Authors: Khondker Lubna , Wahab Md Abdul , Khan Md Shirajul Islam , Hazra Samaresh Chandra
Published: March 2013

Leprosy is the most ancient bacterial disease in the history of mankind. It remains still public health problem in the countries where it is endemic. Leprosy (Hansens disease) is a chronic infectious disease which is diagnosable and curable if recognized early and treated adequately. The infectious agent of leprosy is Mycobacterium leprae which is only bacteria to infect peripheral nerves. Leprosy is characterized by a variety of abnormal immune response. It depends on the integrity of the hosts specific CMI response to the M. leprae and it may be genetically determined. Antileprotic multidrugs therapy (MDT) as recommended by WHO is now the standard and accepted method for leprosy control. Leprosy can not be completely rooted out with physicians, control offices, leprosaria and propaganda; it will disappear when the economic and cultural factors change, because leprosy is the thermometer of civilization. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/medtoday.v24i1.14116 Medicine TODAY Vol.24(1) 2012 pp.44-47
The Importance of Groves for Cattle in Semi-Open Pastures
Authors: Popp Almut , Scheibe Klaus-Manfred
Published: March 2013

Groves are of ecological importance, but can reduce the productivity of pastures. They may be used by cattle for nutrition as well as for comfort and shelter. To describe the importance and to estimate the influence of cattle on groves, the behavior of cattle around trees and shrubs was observed on six semi-open pastures in the mountain range of Thuringia and the Southern Black Forest (Germany). The groves were divided into formations, species and structures. The cattle used the groves more for browsing than rubbing. Significantly preferred species calculated by Chesson-Index were dogwood (Cornus sanguinea), black elder (Sambucus nigra), fly honeysuckle (Lonicera xylosteum), plum (Prunus domestica), osier (Salix viminalis), white beam (Sorbus chamaemespilus), and guelder rose (Viburnum opulus). The browsing preference is discussed in relation to nutritional importance and as self-medication. Cattle suppressed some species according to the utilization frequency, but for other species, there was no correlation. The animals preferred the tree hedges in comparison to the other formations. Hedges were utilized as shelter in extreme weather. In addition, under high browsing pressure, hedges were sustained and regenerated. Hedges on pastures turned out to be important for cattle under several aspects and accordingly should be preserved.
Sustainability Potentials of Housing Refurbishment
Authors: Sodagar Behzad
Published: March 2013

The benefits of choosing refurbishment over new build have recently been brought into focus for reducing environmental impacts of buildings. This is due to the fact that the existing buildings will comprise the majority of the total building stocks for years to come and hence will remain responsible for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions from the sector. This paper investigates the total potentials of sustainable refurbishment and conversion of the existing buildings by adopting a holistic approach to sustainability. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and questionnaires have been used to analyse the environmental impact savings (Co2e), improved health and well-being, and satisfaction of people living in refurbished homes. The results reported in the paper are based on a two year externally funded research project completed in January 2013.
Experimental Investigation on the Performance of a Compressed-Air Driven Piston Engine
Authors: Huang Chih-Yung , Hu Cheng-Kang , Yu Chih-Jie , Sung Cheng-Kuo
Published: March 2013

This study presents an experimental investigation of a piston engine driven by compressed air. The compressed air engine was a modified 100 cm3 internal combustion engine obtained from a motorcycle manufacturer. The experiments in this study used a test bench to examine the power performance and pressure/temperature variations of the compressed air engine at pressures ranging from 5 to 9 bar (absolute pressure). The engine was modified from a 4-stroke to a 2-stroke engine using a cam system driven by a crankshaft and the intake and exhaust valves have a small lift due to this modification. The highest power output of 0.95 kW was obtained at 9 bar and 1320 rpm. The highest torque of 9.99 N·m occurred at the same pressure, but at 465 rpm. The pressure-volume (P-V) diagram shows that cylinder pressure gradually increases after the intake valve opens because of the limited lift movement of the intake valve. Similar situations occurred during the exhaust process, restricting the power output of the compressed air engine. The pressure and temperature variation of the air at engine inlet and outlet were recorded during the experiment. The outlet pressure increased from 1.5 bar at 500 rpm to 2.25 bar at 2000 rpm, showing the potential of recycling the compressed air energy by attaching additional cylinders (split-cycle engine). A temperature decrease (from room temperature to 17 °C) inside the cylinder was observed. It should be noted that pressures higher than that currently employed can result in lower temperatures and this can cause poor lubrication and sealing issues. The current design of a compressed air engine, which uses a conventional cam mechanism for intake and exhaust, has limited lift movement during operation, and has a restricted flow rate and power output. Fast valve actuation and a large lift are essential for improving the performance of the current compressed air engine. This study presents a power output examination with the pressure and temperature measurements of a piston-type compressed air engine to be installed in compact vehicles as the main or auxiliary power system.
Differences in Urinary Arsenic Metabolites between Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Subjects in Bangladesh
Authors: Nizam Saika , Kato Masashi , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Khalequzzaman Md. , Ohnuma Shoko , Naito Hisao , Nakajima Tamie
Published: March 2013

Ingestion of inorganic arsenic (iAs) is considered to be related to the development of diabetes mellitus. In order to clarify the possible differences in the metabolism in diabetics, we measured urinary iAs metabolites in diabetic cases and non-diabetic control subjects in Faridpur, an arsenic-contaminated area in Bangladesh. Physician-diagnosed type 2 diabetic cases (140 persons) and non-diabetic controls (180 persons) were recruited. Drinking water and spot urine samples were collected. Mean concentrations of total arsenic in drinking water did not differ between cases (85.1 μg/L) and controls (85.8 μg/L). The percentage of urinary iAs (iAs%) was significantly lower in cases (8.6%) than in controls (10.4%), while that of dimethylarsinic acid (DMA%) was higher in cases (82.6%) than in controls (79.9%). This may have been due to the higher secondary methylation index (SMI) in the former (11.6) rather than the latter (10.0). Adjusting for matching factors (sex and unions), and the additional other covariates (age and water arsenic) significantly attenuated the differences in iAs%, SMI, and DMA%, respectively, though the difference in monomethylarsonic acid% was newly significant in the latter adjustment. Our study did not suggest any significant differences in urinary arsenic metabolites between diabetic and non-diabetic subjects.
Antioxidant Activity of Extracts of Momordica Foetida Schumach. et Thonn.
Authors: Acquaviva Rosaria , Di Giacomo Claudia , Vanella Luca , Santangelo Rosa , Sorrenti Valeria , Barbagallo Ignazio , Genovese Carlo , Mastrojeni Silvana , Ragusa Salvatore , Iauk Liliana
Published: March 2013

Momordica foetida Schumach. et Thonn. (Cucurbitaceae) is a perennial climbing herb with tendrils, found in swampy areas in Central Uganda. Antidiabetic and antilipogenic activities were reported for some Momordica species, however the mechanism of action is still unknown. Oxidative stress may represent an important pathogenic mechanism in obesity-associated metabolic syndrome. The present study evaluated free radical scavenging capacity of different concentrations of aqueous, methanolic and dichloromethane leaf extracts of Momordica foetida Schumach. et Thonn. and the ability of these extracts to inhibit in vitro plasma lipid peroxidation; in addition, healthy human adipose mesenchymal stem cell cultures were used in order to test the hypothesis that these extracts may affect adipocyte differentiation. Results obtained in this study suggested that aqueous extract might be useful in preventing metabolic syndrome.
The Interactions of Oxygen with Small Gold Clusters on Nitrogen-Doped Graphene
Authors: Chen Xin , Sun Shaorui , Li Fan , Wang Xiayan , Xia Dingguo
Published: March 2013

By means of density functional theory, the adsorption properties of O2 molecule on both isolated and N-graphene supported gold clusters have been studied. The N-graphene is modeled by a C65NH22 cluster of finite size. The results indicate that the catalytic activity and the O2 adsorption energies of odd-numbered Au clusters are larger than those of adjacent even-numbered ones. The O2 molecule is in favor of bonding to the bridge sites of odd-numbered Au clusters, whereas for odd-numbered ones, the end-on adsorption mode is favored. The perpendicular adsorption orientation on N-graphene is preferred than the parallel one for Au2, Au3 and Au4 clusters, while for Au5, Au6 and Au7, the parallel ones are favored. When O2 is adsorbed on N-graphene supported Au clusters, the adsorption energies are largely increased compared with those on gas-phase ones. The increased adsorption energies would significantly facilitate the electron transfer from Au d-orbital to π* orbital of O2, which would further weakening the O–O bond and therefore enhancing the catalytic activity. The carbon atoms on N-graphene could anchor the clusters, which could make them more difficult to structural distortion, therefore enhance their stability.
The Dietary Intake of Wheat and other Cereal Grains and Their Role in Inflammation
Authors: De Punder Karin , Pruimboom Leo
Published: March 2013

Wheat is one of the most consumed cereal grains worldwide and makes up a substantial part of the human diet. Although government-supported dietary guidelines in Europe and the U.S.A advise individuals to eat adequate amounts of (whole) grain products per day, cereal grains contain “anti-nutrients,” such as wheat gluten and wheat lectin, that in humans can elicit dysfunction and disease. In this review we discuss evidence from in vitro, in vivo and human intervention studies that describe how the consumption of wheat, but also other cereal grains, can contribute to the manifestation of chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases by increasing intestinal permeability and initiating a pro-inflammatory immune response.
Pharmacokinetics of High-Dose Weekly Oral Vitamin D3 Supplementation during the Third Trimester of Pregnancy in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Roth Daniel , Mahmud Abdullah , Raqib Rubhana , Akhtar Evana , Black Robert , Baqui Abdullah
Published: March 2013

A pharmacokinetic study was conducted to assess the biochemical dose-response and tolerability of high-dose prenatal vitamin D3 supplementation in Dhaka, Bangladesh (23°N). Pregnant women at 27–30 weeks gestation (n = 28) were randomized to 70,000 IU once + 35,000 IU/week vitamin D3 (group PH: pregnant, higher dose) or 14,000 IU/week vitamin D3 (PL: pregnant, lower dose) until delivery. A group of non-pregnant women (n = 16) was similarly administered 70,000 IU once + 35,000 IU/week for 10 weeks (NH: non-pregnant, higher-dose). Rise (∆) in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration ([25(OH)D]) above baseline was the primary pharmacokinetic outcome. Baseline mean [25(OH)D] were similar in PH and PL (35 nmol/L vs. 31 nmol/L, p = 0.34). A dose-response effect was observed: ∆[25(OH)D] at modeled steady-state was 19 nmol/L (95% CI, 1 to 37) higher in PH vs. PL (p = 0.044). ∆[25(OH)D] at modeled steady-state was lower in PH versus NH but the difference was not significant (−15 nmol/L, 95% CI −34 to 5; p = 0.13). In PH, 100% attained [25(OH)D] ≥ 50 nmol/L and 90% attained [25(OH)D] ≥ 80 nmol/L; in PL, 89% attained [25(OH)D] ≥ 50 nmol/L but 56% attained [25(OH)D] ≥ 80 nmol/L. Cord [25(OH)D] (n = 23) was slightly higher in PH versus PL (117 nmol/L vs. 98 nmol/L; p = 0.07). Vitamin D3 was well tolerated; there were no supplement-related serious adverse clinical events or hypercalcemia. In summary, a regimen of an initial dose of 70,000 IU and 35,000 IU/week vitamin D3 in the third trimester of pregnancy was non-hypercalcemic and attained [25(OH)D] ≥ 80 nmol/L in virtually all mothers and newborns. Further research is required to establish the safety of high-dose vitamin D3 in pregnancy and to determine if supplement-induced [25(OH)D] elevations lead to maternal-infant health benefits.
The Role of Gut Microbiota on Insulin Resistance
Authors: Caricilli Andrea , Saad Mario
Published: March 2013

The development of obesity and insulin resistance has been extensively studied in the last decades, but the mechanisms underlying these alterations are still not completely understood. The gut microbiota has been identified as a potential contributor to metabolic diseases. It has been shown that obese individuals present different proportions of bacterial phyla compared with lean individuals, with an increase in Firmicutes and Actinobacteria and a decrease in Bacteroidetes. This alteration seems to interfere with intestinal permeability, increasing the absorption of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which reaches circulation and initiates activation of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and 2 and LPS receptor CD14, leading to increased activation of inflammatory pathways. With these activations, an impairment of the insulin signaling is observed, with decreased phosphorylation of the insulin receptor, insulin receptor substrate (IRS) and Akt, as well as increased inhibitory serine phosphorylation of IRS-1. Altered proportions of bacterial phyla have also been demonstrated to interfere with host’s biochemical pathways, increasing energy extraction and depot in adipose tissue. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms by which the alteration in the gut microbiota produces different signaling activations and phenotype changes may offer an interesting opportunity for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Structural Uncertainty in Model-Simulated Trends of Global Gross Primary Production
Authors: Hashimoto Hirofumi , Wang Weile , Milesi Cristina , Xiong Jun , Ganguly Sangram , Zhu Zaichun , Nemani Ramakrishna
Published: March 2013

Projected changes in the frequency and severity of droughts as a result of increase in greenhouse gases have a significant impact on the role of vegetation in regulating the global carbon cycle. Drought effect on vegetation Gross Primary Production (GPP) is usually modeled as a function of Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and/or soil moisture. Climate projections suggest a strong likelihood of increasing trend in VPD, while regional changes in precipitation are less certain. This difference in projections between VPD and precipitation can cause considerable discrepancies in the predictions of vegetation behavior depending on how ecosystem models represent the drought effect. In this study, we scrutinized the model responses to drought using the 30-year record of Global Inventory Modeling and Mapping Studies (GIMMS) 3g Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dataset. A diagnostic ecosystem model, Terrestrial Observation and Prediction System (TOPS), was used to estimate global GPP from 1982 to 2009 under nine different experimental simulations. The control run of global GPP increased until 2000, but stayed constant after 2000. Among the simulations with single climate constraint (temperature, VPD, rainfall and solar radiation), only the VPD-driven simulation showed a decrease in 2000s, while the other scenarios simulated an increase in GPP. The diverging responses in 2000s can be attributed to the difference in the representation of the impact of water stress on vegetation in models, i.e., using VPD and/or precipitation. Spatial map of trend in simulated GPP using GIMMS 3g data is consistent with the GPP driven by soil moisture than the GPP driven by VPD, confirming the need for a soil moisture constraint in modeling global GPP.