bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study of HO•− and SO4•−-based AOPs for the degradation of non-ionic surfactant Brij30
Authors: Kabdaşlı Işık , Ecer Çisem , Olmez-Hanci Tugba , Tünay Olcay
Published: July 2015

In the present study aqueous solutions of Brij30, an alcohol ethoxylate surfactant, were photocatalytically and photochemically treated by employing the TiO2/UV-A, H2O2/UV-C and persulfate (PS)/UV-C processes. During TiO2/UV-A treatment, even in short reaction periods (10 minutes), high rates of Brij30 removals were achieved; however, longer experiment periods (240–480 minutes) were needed in order to obtain notable total organic carbon (TOC) removals. Increasing the TiO2 dosage exhibited a positive effect on treatment efficiencies. For initial pH value of 3.0, increasing the TiO2 dosage from 1.0 to 1.5 g/L resulted in an improvement in Brij30 removal from 64% to 79% after 10 minutes whereas 68 and 88% TOC removals were observed after 480 minutes, respectively. Brij30 removal was very fast and complete via both H2O2/UV-C and PS/UV-C treatments, accompanied with significant mineralization rates ranging between 74 and 80%. Toxicity assessed by Vibrio fischeri, was found to be similar to that of the original Brij30 solution during H2O2/UV-C treatment, while in the PS/UV-C process, the relative inhibition of Brij30 towards V. fischeri fluctuated throughout the treatment and eventually non-toxic products were formed by the oxidation of SO4•− radicals.
Impact of activated sludge process configuration on removal of micropollutants and estrogenicity
Authors: Ogunlaja O. O. , Parker W. J.
Published: July 2015

The efficacy of three different wastewater treatment configurations, conventional activated sludge (CAS), nitrifying activated sludge (NAS) and biological nutrient removal (BNR) for removal of selected micropollutants from authentic wastewater was investigated. The processes were also characterized based on their proficiency to reduce the estrogenic activity of the influent wastewater using the in vitro recombinant yeast assay. The removal efficiency of trimethoprim improved with the complexity of the three treatment process configurations. Ibuprofen, androstendione, sulfamethoxazole, nonyl-phenol, estrone and bisphenol-A had moderate to high removals (>65%) while carbamazepine and meprobamate remained recalcitrant in the three treatment process configurations. The removal of gemfibrozil was better in the NAS than in BNR and CAS treatment configurations. The yeast estrogen screen (YES) assay analyses showed an improvement in estrogenicity removal in the BNR and NAS treatment configurations as compared to the CAS treatment configuration. Comparing the estrogenic responses from the three treatment configurations, the removal efficiencies followed the order of BNR = NAS > CAS and all were greater than 81%.
Long-term Effects of Elevated CO on the Proliferation of Cyanophage PP
Authors: Kai Cheng , Yu Shang Shi , Ying Gao , Jun Zhao Yi , Guang Huang Z.
Published: July 2015

Much of the research effort focused on the impacts of elevated CO2 on marine algae but very little work was done on freshwater algae, or on freshwater algal viruses. In this paper, we studied the impacts of elevated CO2 on the infection of a freshwater cyanobacterium (wild Leptolyngbya sp.) by cyanophage PP that have a wide distribution in China. In a 12-month experiment, logarithmic-phase host cells were infected with cyanophage PP at 370 or 740 µatm pCO2 concentrations; the burst size, lysing cycle and proportion of adsorption were measured. The results showed that the proportion of adsorption, and burst sizes of cyanophage PP increased significantly with elevated CO2 concentrations, and the proportion of adsorption increased gradually within the 12 months with the gradual increment of cell width. The result indicated that elevated CO2 concentration may have significantinfluences on the proliferation dynamics of cyanophage–host systems, and some of the influences may increase gradually in a long-term.
Application of Ceramic Wastes in Concrete
Authors: Shuying Qu , Bin Zheng , Chen Sun , Jin Li
Published: July 2015

Environmental issues have been of concern. The rapid development of the construction industry and ceramics have become a major source of national income. The unreasonable development patterns have brought certain environmental pollution. How to reduce pollution to the minimum and to make some reasonable economic use is a significant subject in the field of Waste disposal and resource recovery. This article is based on the present situation of application of fly ash in concrete. Test the application of ceramic waste materials in the concrete to get some application value.
3-D Poro-Elastoplastic Model for Short-Crested Wave-Induced Pore Pressures in a Porous Seabed
Authors: S. Wong Z. , C. Liao C. , S. Jeng D.
Published: July 2015

In this paper, a three-dimensional poro-elastoplastic model for the short-crested wave-induced pore pressures in
a porous seabed is presented. Unlike the previous models, both elasticity and plasticity of seafloor are considered in the
present model. This study considers the effects of wave and soil characteristics on the pore pressures and was validated
with the previous wave experiment data. As the numerical analysis shows, higher value of plastic parameter leads to a
faster residual pore pressure accumulation, which is closely related to the occurrence of seabed liquefaction. In particular,
at the dissipation stage, residual pore pressure sharply decreases when enlarging plastic parameter , which dominates the
velocity of accumulation of plastic volumetric strain.
Transfusion-Related Acute Lung Injured (TRALI): Current Concepts
Authors: Álvarez P , Carrasco R , Romero-Dapueto C , Castillo R.L
Published: July 2015

Transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a life-threatening intervention that develops within 6 hours of transfusion of one or more units of blood, and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality resulting from transfusion. It is necessary to dismiss other causes of acute lung injury (ALI), like sepsis, acute cardiogenic edema, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or bacterial infection. There are two mechanisms that lead to the development of this syndrome: immune-mediated and no immune- mediated TRALI. A common theme among the experimental TRALI models is the central importance of neutrophils in mediating the early immune response, and lung vascular injury. Central clinical symptoms are dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia, cyanosis and pulmonary secretions, altogether with other hemodynamic alterations, such as hypotension and fever. Complementary to these clinical findings, long-term validated animal models for TRALI should allow the determination of the cellular targets for TRALI-inducing alloantibodies as well as delineation of the underlying pathogenic molecular mechanisms, and key molecular mediators of the pathology. Diagnostic criteria have been established and preventive measures have been implemented. These actions have contributed to the reduction in the overallnumber of fatalities. However, TRALI still remains a clinical problem. Any complication suspected of TRALI should immediately be reported.
Sex Differences in the Effects of a Biological Drug for Rheumatoid Arthritis on Depressive State
Authors: Tokunaga Takahiro , Miwa Yusuke , Nishimi Airi , Nishimi Shinichiro , Saito Mayu , Oguro Nao , Miura Yoko , Ishii Sho , Takahashi Ryo , Kasama Tsuyoshi , Sanada Kenji
Published: July 2015

Objective :

Sex-specific medicine has attracted attention in recent years, but no report on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has examined sex differences in the effectiveness of biologics on activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QOL), or depressive state.

Methods :

The study subjects were 161 RA patients (female: 138; male: 23) attending regular doctor visits at our hospital. We compared the changes in disease activity, which was evaluated using the simplified disease activity index (SDAI), ADL (using the modified health assessment questionnaire; mHAQ), QOL (using short form-36; SF-36), and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) for RA patients between each sex over a six-month observation period while administering biologic treatment.

Results :

The female patients reported significant improvements in the following metrics: SDAI: from 22.1 ± 11.9 to 8.9 ± 7.8 (p < 0.001); mHAQ: from 0.46 ± 0.50 to 0.32 ± 0.45 (p < 0.001); and HAM-D: from 6.2 ± 4.8 to 3.8 ± 4.1 (p < 0.001). Moreover, all eight items of the SF-36 were significantly improved (p < 0.01). In contrast, the male patients improved on the SDAI (from 27.9 ± 11.7 to 12.7 ± 8.6 (p < 0.001)), but we did not observe significant improvements in the mHAQ or HAM-D scores or in any items on the SF-36.

Conclusion :

Both male and female patients with RA improved when using a biological drug. Sex differences in the improvement of depressive state were observed.
A Hydroxypropyl Chitosan (HPCH) Based Medical Device Prevents Fungal Infections: Evidences from an In Vitro Human Nail Model
Authors: Bulgheroni Anna , Frisenda Linda , Subissi Alessandro , Mailland Federico
Published: July 2015

A long lasting, protective and film forming HPCH-based medical device was developed and tested in a novel human nail infection model. HPCH-treated and untreated human distal fingernail fragments were disposed on the
culture surface of or . After incubation for one or three weeks, the fragments were collected and histological analysis was performed. Results obtained
in untreated nails evidenced, as expected, that the fungal invasion was different depending on the species: it was
completed with spp., partial with sp. and limited to the surface with sp.. On the
other hand, HPCH-treated nails were not invaded by fungal elements, neither dermatophytes nor moulds or yeasts.
Besides showing the barrier effect of HPCH this paper describes a novel model of nail infection that is simple,
reproducible and closely represents the human situation.
Art=life? Deleuze, badiou and ontology of the human
Authors: Filipovic Andrija , Matejic Bojana
Published: July 2015

The idea of the relation between art and life as becoming-life of art is a
consequence of specific modern developments ranging from the Enlightenment to
capitalism. This assemblage of thought and practice is present in one of the
most dominant art forms today, and the task of this paper is to reassess the
current state of affairs in art considering that the current state of affairs
in art is a symptom of the global society of control. In order to be
emancipatory art, on the one hand, Art presupposes de-substantialization and
deessentialization of the biopolitically formed life and the category of Man,
while on the other hand it also presupposes a new ?generic in-humanum? (in
Badiou), that is, a people to come (in Deleuze) as the basis of politicity.
Hence, emancipatory art needs to break away with the human in order to reach
that which is beyond the current democratic materialism.
Grotius’ theory of natural law
Authors: Govedarica Jelena
Published: July 2015

After analyzing Grotius? formulation of the state of nature and natural law,
social contract and international law, the author places emphasis on two
insights. First, that a certain heuristic principle plays a central role in
Grotius? argument - the analogy between individuals and states in the state
of nature. Second, his firm belief that within the international framework
the protection of natural law of people and communities comes before respect
for state sovereignty. The author will argue that morally unacceptable
implications of these characteristics of Grotius? theory, when we take into
account the way in which he defines the rights of punishment and property,
are in fact legitimation of interventionism and colonialism. The author
will also argue that Grotius initiated an influential tradition in
international law, characterized by a lack of clear boundaries between legal
and moral norms.
Postcolonial studies and post-Soviet societies: The possibilities and the limitations of their intersection
Authors: Subotic Milan
Published: July 2015

Starting with a short review of the postcolonial studies? origins, this paper
considers the question of their application in the study of history and
contemporary state of the post-Soviet societies. Aspirations of the leading
theorists of postcolonial studies not to restrict their field of research on
the relation of imperial metropoles (First World) and its (post)colonial
periphery (Third World) have not met with the acceptance in post-Soviet
societies? academia. With the exception of the famous debates on ?the
Balkans? that are not the subject of this paper, the paradigm of
post-colonialism is rarely used in the interpretation of past and present of
the former socialist states (Second World). Rejecting the thesis of their own
(post)colonial status in most of Eastern European countries is usually based
on a rejection of the assumption of the Soviet-style communism?s ?civilizing
mission?. From the same perspective, the Soviet Union is not considered a
colonial metropole, but an occupying force, and the epoch of socialism is
interpreted as externally imposed breach of the historical developments based
on the European model. On the other hand, the concept of these countries?
transition opens up the issue of their (post)colonial status in relation to
?Europe? as the center of economic, political and cultural power. Therefore,
the postcolonial critique of post-Soviet societies is more often focused on
the thematisation of neo-imperial domination and neo-colonial dependency
phenomena, than on the explanation of their socialist past. The author?s
opinion is that it doesn?t mean that a number of concepts of postcolonial
theory - such as ?internal colonialism? - cannot be productively used to a
fuller understanding of the Soviet past, nor that in the interpretation of
post-Soviet realities? ?hybrid forms? the postcolonial studies cannot be of
use.
Do Socially Responsible Firms Pay More Taxes?
Authors: Davis Angela K. , Guenther David A. , Krull Linda K. , Williams Brian M.
Published: July 2015

We investigate the relation between corporate tax payments and corporate social responsibility. Because existing theory and empirical studies find inconsistent evidence on the relation between these constructs, we investigate whether the two activities act as complements or substitutes. We estimate the relation between measures of corporate social responsibility and (1) the amount of corporate taxes paid, and (2) the amount invested in tax lobbying activities using both ordinary least squares and a system of simultaneous equations. We find consistent evidence that corporate social responsibility is negatively related to five-year cash effective tax rates and positively related to tax lobbying expenditures. Our evidence suggests that, on average, corporate social responsibility and tax payments act as substitutes.

Data Availability: Data are available from sources identified in the paper.
ASK1 Inhibitor Halts Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy in Nos3-Deficient Mice
Authors: Tesch Greg H. , Ma Frank Y. , Han Yingjie , Liles John T. , Breckenridge David G. , Nikolic-Paterson David J.
Published: July 2015

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling promotes diabetic kidney injury. Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase (ASK)1 is one of the upstream kinases in the p38 MAPK-signaling pathway, which is activated by inflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting a possible role for ASK1 in diabetic nephropathy. In this study, we examined whether a selective ASK1 inhibitor can prevent the induction and progression of diabetic nephropathy in mice. Diabetes was induced in hypertensive endothelial nitric oxide synthase (Nos3)-deficient mice by five low-dose streptozotocin (STZ) injections. Groups of diabetic Nos3−/− mice received ASK1 inhibitor (GS-444217 delivered in chow) as an early intervention (2–8 weeks after STZ) or late intervention (weeks 8–15 after STZ). Control diabetic and nondiabetic Nos3−/− mice received normal chow. Treatment with GS-444217 abrogated p38 MAPK activation in diabetic kidneys but had no effect upon hypertension in Nos3−/− mice. Early intervention with GS-444217 significantly inhibited diabetic glomerulosclerosis and reduced renal dysfunction but had no effect on the development of albuminuria. Late intervention with GS-444217 improved renal function and halted the progression of glomerulosclerosis, renal inflammation, and tubular injury despite having no effect on established albuminuria. In conclusion, this study identifies ASK1 as a new therapeutic target in diabetic nephropathy to reduce renal inflammation and fibrosis independent of blood pressure control.
Factors Contributing to Single- and Dual-Task Timed “Up & Go” Test Performance in Middle-Aged and Older Adults Who Are Active and Dwell in the Community
Authors: Chen Hui-Ya , Tang Pei-Fang
Published: July 2015

Background

Dual-task Timed “Up & Go” (TUG) tests are likely to have applications different from those of a single-task TUG test and may have different contributing factors.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare factors contributing to performance on single- and dual-task TUG tests.

Design

This investigation was a cross-sectional study.

Methods

Sixty-four adults who were more than 50 years of age and dwelled in the community were recruited. Interviews and physical examinations were performed to identify potential contributors to TUG test performance. The time to complete the single-task TUG test (TUGsingle) or the dual-task TUG test, which consisted of completing the TUG test while performing a serial subtraction task (TUGcognitive) or while carrying water (TUGmanual), was measured.

Results

Age, hip extensor strength, walking speed, general mental function, and Stroop scores for word and color were significantly associated with performance on all TUG tests. Hierarchical multiple regression models, without the input of walking speed, revealed different independent factors contributing to TUGsingle performance (Mini-Mental Status Examination score, β=−0.32), TUGmanual performance (age, β=0.35), and TUGcognitive performance (Stroop word score, β=−0.40; Mini-Mental Status Examination score, β=−0.31).

Limitations

At least 40% of the variance in the performance on the 3 TUG tests was not explained by common clinical measures, even when the factor of walking speed was considered. However, this study successfully identified some important factors contributing to performance on different TUG tests, and other studies have reported similar findings for single-task TUG test and dual-task gait performance.

Conclusions

Although the TUGsingle and the TUGcognitive shared general mental function as a common factor, the TUGmanual was uniquely influenced by age and the TUGcognitive was uniquely influenced by focused attention. These results suggest that both common and unique factors contribute to performance on single- and dual-task TUG tests and suggest important applications of the combined use of the 3 TUG tests.
Different Types of Cardiac Arrhythmias Shown In Holter ECG Monitoring of 100 Patients Studied in NICVD
Authors: Faruque Md , Ali Masum Abu Shams Md Hasan , Siddiqui Md Mahmudur Rahman , Faruk Md Tanveer , Rahman Fazlur , Iqbal Md Jabed , Uddin Rubayat Sheikh Gias
Published: July 2015

Ambulatory ECG monitoring is suitable for patients with symptoms which may be caused by arrhythmia such as palpitation, light-headedness, syncope or chest discomfort. Patients with symptoms occurring daily or almost daily or those who have syncope without warning may be evaluated with a 24 hour Holter monitoring. Objective of this study is to determine incidences of various arrhythmias on 24-hour electrocardiographic Holter monitoring. This retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in the cardiology department of NICVD by reviewing the Holter monitoring report to study different types of cardiac arrhythmias. Adult patients of either gender, referred for Holter monitoring with symptoms of palpitation, dizziness and syncope were evaluated for arrhythmia. The data analysis of the 100 patients who were studied, showed that there were 75 (75%) males and 25 (25%) females. 25% of patients were below 40 years whereas 75% were above 40 years of age. 67(67%) patients developed arrhythmia and others were normal. 38% report showed ventricular ectopic, 11% sick sinus syndrome, 5% ventricular tachycardia, 3% complete heart block. Supraventricular ectopic, atrial flutter, atrial fibrillation and Wolf Parkinson White syndrome each developed in only 1% of patients. Twenty four hour Holter monitoring is an important investigation for evaluation of patients with palpitation, dizziness and syncope. Arrhythmias were detected frequently in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. One must be careful to avoid attributing a symptom to an arrhythmia until a close temporal relationship is demonstrated.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 71-74
Outcome of Conjunctival Autograft in Pterygium Surgery
Authors: Rashid Md Abdur , Hossain Kh Anowar , Islam AKM Rafiqul , Rahman MA , Ahmed Arman Uddin
Published: July 2015

This Prospective study is designed to investigate the efficacy of conjunctival autograft in surgical management of primary pterygium. The study was conducted at Tairunnessa Memrial Medical College and Hospital, Targach, Board bazar,Tongi, Gazipur and Kushtia General Hospital from July 2012 to June 2013. Fifty eyes with primary pterygia were selected for the study.Ptergium was graded depending on the extent of corneal involvement. We excluded the patients with recurrent pterygium, double headed pterygium, dry eye and history of previous intraocular surgery from our study. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 41.9±8.1 years ranged from 30 to 60 years.The excision of pterygium with conjunctival autograf was done under peribulbar anaesthesia using 8-0 virgin silk.Then the patients were followed up for 12 months. The excision of pterygium with conjunctival auto graft was done by applying same technique. All grafts were intact during the follow up period. There is recurrence in three patients that becomes evident within first three month. Conjunctival autograft is a effective surgical technique for the treatment of pterygium.It is safe and uncomplicated procedure and prevents the recurrence of pterygium. It also reduces the risk of granuloma formation, scleral thinning and necrosis.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 75-77
Gynaecological Cancers in Surgical Specimens  A Hospital Based Analysis
Authors: Rahman Md Atiqur , Siddika Syeda Tasfia , Mazid MA
Published: July 2015

Female genital tract malignancies have worldwide distribution, but the distribution and frequency vary from one region to another. The preventable carcinoma of the cervix is still the leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in the developing countries. Objective of this study is to determine the patterns and frequency of female genital tract malignancies in our population and to compare it with other national and international studies. A six-year retrospective analysis of histopathologically proven gynecological malignancies was performed in the Department of Pathology, Enam Medical College & Hospital, Savar between January 2008 and December 2013. Out of the total 185 gynaecological cancers diagnosed, 120 cases (64.87%) were cervical, 44 (23.78%) ovarian, 12 (6.49%) corpus uteri, 7 (3.78%) vulval, and 2 (1.08%) vaginal cancers. No malignant lesion is found in the myometrium and the fallopian tube. Age of the cases ranged from 4 months and 85 years with mean age 43.91±12.84 years. The mean ages of cervical and ovarian cancers were 46.64±10 and 37.16±14.66 years respectively. Majority of the patients were between the fourth and six decade with peak frequency in the fifth decade of life. Squamous cell carcinoma was the commonest histopathologic type in cervical and vulval cancers whereas serous cyst adenocarcinoma and endometrioid adenocarcinoma were the commonest types in the ovary and endometrium respectively. Carcinoma of the cervix was the commonest malignancy encountered in this study. Effective screening programs and public awareness is necessary for early diagnosis and decrease mortality.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 78-82
Status of Prostacycline-Thromboxane System and Platelet Functional Activities in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Depending on Stages of Heart Failure
Authors: Hossain AFM Sakhawat , Biswas Brindaban , Alfazzaman Md , Mohsin Mohammad , Rahman Md Mujibur
Published: July 2015

Among possible pathogenic and adaptive mechanism of acute myocardial infarction and development of its complications, the system of prostanoids, particularly prostacycline-thromboxane system is of prime importance. But many questions relating the role of prostacycline-thromboxane system in pathogenesis of myocardial infarction associated with heart failure have studied insufficiently. The objective of this work is to study the ststus of prostacycline-thromboxane system in patients of acute myocardial infarction associated with heart failure and its correlation with the platelet functions depending on stages of heart failure. This study was performed in the department of Internal Medicine in Kharkov State Medical Institute, Ukraine in 1985-89. 120 patients with acute myocardial infarction leading to heart failure were studied. The status of prostacycline-thromboxane was considered by the level of stable metabolites of prostacycline and thromboxane - A2 as 6-keto-PGF and TXB2 respectively in venous plasma. 6-Keto-PGF-1a and TXB2 levels were determined by Radio-immunological method with the help of kits manufactured by the English Firm "New England Nuclear". To determine the platelet aggregation properties, the instrument "Bian-120" transmitter was used. It was established clinically that prostacycline- thromboxane activation depends on clinical features of myocardial infarction, i.e. its localization, depth, extension or affected size of MI, first attack or re-infarction. Maximum changes of prostacycline thromboxane system took place in extensive myocardial infarction which was expressed in increased level of TXB2 and significant change of prostanoid imbalance ratio. Parameters of platelet aggregation function and prostacycline thromboxane system were interrelated during heart failure, which were expressed by their changes in aggregation diagram.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 83-87
Induction of labour in prolonged pregnancy and its outcome
Authors: Sultana Rabeya , Begum Kohinoor , Sultana Nahid , Sultana Naireen , Munmun Salma Akter , Ara Rowson , Akter Shireen
Published: July 2015

A prospective study was done in the Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from the January 2007 to June 2007. For the study 50 patients with uncomplicated prolonged pregnancy admitted during the study period were selected fulfilling the inclusion and the exclusion criteria. The study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of induction in prolonged pregnancy. From this study it was found that routine induction of labour at 41 to 42 weeks may be beneficial rather than continuing the pregnancy to have spontaneous labour which may increase the per perinatal mortality and morbidity. It was also found that due to routine induction of labour in prolonged pregnancy, vaginal delivery rate is more than caesarean section in multigravida than primigravida. Regarding the cause of failure of induction of labour it was found that the main causes are foetal distress and abnormal uterine action. The present study has proved that the use of Prostaglandin for cervical ripening, the delivery outcome can be improved. The study also showed that indiction of labour is not associated with any major intraprtum and postpartum foetal and maternal complication.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 100-103
Views of the Elderly Regarding the Behavior by His Family Members
Authors: Siddique Abu Bakar
Published: July 2015

This was a Cross-sectional Study conducted in urban area of Dhaka city corporation, During the Period of 1st January to 30th June 2009, with a view to assessing the views of elderly regarding the behavior by his family members. A total of 150 respondents of both sexes 60 years and above were interviewed of which 60% were males and 40% were female, 57.33% were in the age group of 60-69 years. 10% were illiterate 90% were from literate group. Among the respondents 90.66% were Muslim, 34% were retired, 46% came from joint family, most of the respondents family income above 10000 thousand taka per month, 58% of the respondents were neglected by family members, 71.33% of the respondents were not get properly take care from family members, and 66% were unhealthy. Among the major health problems 10.66% had diseases of bones & Connective tissue, 9.33% general weakness, 8% GIT problems, 6.67 % had cardiovascular diseases, 4.67% had respiratory diseases. and 3.33% had diabetic, The study shows that the respondents were deprive from take care of their family members due to some factors, which include family members have no time (76%),they are busy (80.67%), no earning capacity (56.67%), The study revealed that 64% of the respondents were not respected, 34% were not take part in familial decision making, 44.67% were never seeking advice by family members, 61.33% some times take part in familial program and elderly experience were not respected 69.33%.In this study we found that 80.66% of the respondents feel lonely, 73.33% of the elderly not satisfied according to current behaved and Almost 100% respondents want soft and polite behaved and shelter during old age and want all kinds of support requiring elderly life leading. The findings of the present study showed that the elderly people were unhappy and not satisfy to take care of their family members, their loneliness and misery is indescribable and suffering from different health & mental problems. It is considered that the findings of the study will not only help as guideline for some preventive program, but also serve as useful basis for future step, research and planning.Medicine Today 2014 Vol.26(2): 104-110
Detection of Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium by Real-Time PCR with High Resolution Melting Analysis
Authors: Sady Hany , Al-Mekhlafi Hesham , Ngui Romano , Atroosh Wahib , Al-Delaimy Ahmed , Nasr Nabil , Dawaki Salwa , Abdulsalam Awatif , Ithoi Init , Lim Yvonne , Chua Kek , Surin Johari
Published: July 2015

The present study describes a real-time PCR approach with high resolution melting-curve (HRM) assay developed for the detection and differentiation of Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium in fecal and urine samples collected from rural Yemen. The samples were screened by microscopy and PCR for the Schistosoma species infection. A pair of degenerate primers were designed targeting partial regions in the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene of S. mansoni and S. haematobium using real-time PCR-HRM assay. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 31.8%; 23.8% of the participants were infected with S. haematobium and 9.3% were infected with S. mansoni. With regards to the intensity of infections, 22.1% and 77.9% of S. haematobium infections were of heavy and light intensities, respectively. Likewise, 8.1%, 40.5% and 51.4% of S. mansoni infections were of heavy, moderate and light intensities, respectively. The melting points were distinctive for S. mansoni and S. haematobium, categorized by peaks of 76.49 ± 0.25 °C and 75.43 ± 0.26 °C, respectively. HRM analysis showed high detection capability through the amplification of Schistosoma DNA with as low as 0.0001 ng/µL. Significant negative correlations were reported between the real-time PCR-HRM cycle threshold (Ct) values and microscopic egg counts for both S. mansoni in stool and S. haematobium in urine (p < 0.01). In conclusion, this closed-tube HRM protocol provides a potentially powerful screening molecular tool for the detection of S. mansoni and S. haematobium. It is a simple, rapid, accurate, and cost-effective method. Hence, this method is a good alternative approach to probe-based PCR assays.
Adult Stem Cell Responses to Nanostimuli
Authors: Tsimbouri Penelope
Published: July 2015

Adult or mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been found in different tissues in the body, residing in stem cell microenvironments called “stem cell niches”. They play different roles but their main activity is to maintain tissue homeostasis and repair throughout the lifetime of an organism. Their ability to differentiate into different cell types makes them an ideal tool to study tissue development and to use them in cell-based therapies. This differentiation process is subject to both internal and external forces at the nanoscale level and this response of stem cells to nanostimuli is the focus of this review.
Four New Sulfated Polar Steroids from the Far Eastern Starfish Leptasterias ochotensis: Structures and Activities
Authors: Malyarenko Timofey , Malyarenko (Vishchuk) Olesya , Ivanchina Natalia , Kalinovsky Anatoly , Popov Roman , Kicha Alla
Published: July 2015

Three new sulfated steroid monoglycosides, leptaochotensosides A–C (1–3), and a new sulfated polyhydroxylated steroid (4) were isolated from the alcoholic extract of the Far Eastern starfish Leptasterias ochotensis. The structures of compounds 1–4 were established by extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESIMS) analyses and chemical transformations. Although the isolated compounds did not show any apparent cytotoxicity against melanoma RPMI-7951 and breast cancer T-47D cell lines, leptaochotensoside A (1) demonstrated inhibition of T-47D cell colony formation in a soft agar clonogenic assay at nontoxic doses. In addition, this compound decreased the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced colony formation of mouse epidermal JB6 Cl41 cells. The cancer preventive action of 1 is realized through regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway.
Special Issue—Towards Understanding the Mechanisms and Curing of Muscular Dystrophy Diseases
Authors: Phylactou Leonidas
Published: July 2015

Muscular dystrophies are a heterogeneous group of inherited diseases with different molecular basss, but sharing similar clinical features and dystrophic changes.
Effects of Lactofermented Beetroot Juice Alone or with N-nitroso-N-methylurea on Selected Metabolic Parameters, Composition of the Microbiota Adhering to the Gut Epithelium and Antioxidant Status of Rats
Authors: Klewicka Elżbieta , Zduńczyk Zenon , Juśkiewicz Jerzy , Klewicki Robert
Published: July 2015

An objective of this work was to assess the biological activity of beetroot juice (Chrobry variety, Beta vulgaris L. ssp. vulgaris), which was lactofermented by probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus brevis 0944 and Lactobacillus paracasei 0920. The oxidative status of blood serum, kidneys, and liver of rats consuming the fermented beetroot juice were determined. The experimental rats were divided into four groups on diet type: Basal diet, basal diet supplemented with fermented beetroot juice, basal diet and N-nitroso-N-methylurea treatment, and basal diet supplemented with fermented beetroot juice and N-nitroso-N-methylurea treatment. Mutagen N-nitroso-N-methylurea, which was added to diet in order to induce aberrant oxidative and biochemical processes and disadvantageous changes in the count and metabolic activity of the gut epithelium microbiota. The nutritional in vivo study showed that supplementing the diet of the rats with the lactofermented beetroot juice reduced the level of ammonia by 17% in the group treated with N-nitroso-N-methylurea. Furthermore, the positive modulation of the gut microflora and its metabolic activity was observed in groups of rats fed with the diet supplemented with the fermented beetroot juice. A concomitant decrease in the b-glucuronidase activity was a consequence of the gut epithelium microbiota modulation. The antioxidant capacity of blood serum aqueous fraction was increased by about 69% in the group of rats treated N-nitroso-N-methylurea mixed with the fermented beetroot juice and N-nitroso-N-methylurea versus to the N-nitroso-N-methylurea treatment, whereas the antioxidant parameters of the blood serum lipid fraction, kidneys, and liver remained unchanged.
Best-Estimates in Bond Markets with Reinvestment Risk
Authors: MacKay Anne , Wüthrich Mario
Published: July 2015

The concept of best-estimate, prescribed by regulators to value insurance liabilities for accounting and solvency purposes, has recently been discussed extensively in the industry and related academic literature. To differentiate hedgeable and non-hedgeable risks in a general case, recent literature defines best-estimates using orthogonal projections of a claim on the space of replicable payoffs. In this paper, we apply this concept of best-estimate to long-maturity claims in a market with reinvestment risk, since in this case the total liability cannot easily be separated into hedgeable and non-hedgeable parts. We assume that a limited number of short-maturity bonds are traded, and derive the best-estimate price of bonds with longer maturities, thus obtaining a best-estimate yield curve. We therefore use the multifactor Vasiˇcek model and derive within this framework closed-form expressions for the best-estimate prices of long-term bonds.
MODELI: An Emotion-Based Software Engineering Methodology for the Development of Digital Learning Objects for the Preservation of the Mixtec Language
Authors: Allende-Hernández Olivia , Caballero-Morales Santiago-Omar
Published: July 2015

In this paper, a methodology termed MODELI (methodology for the design of educational digital objects for indigenous languages) is presented for the development of digital learning objects (DLOs) for the Mixtec language, which is an indigenous Mexican language. MODELI is based on the spiral model of software development and integrates three important aspects for the analysis and design of DLOs: pedagogical, affective-emotional and technological-functional. The premise of MODELI is that the emotional aspect with the inclusion of cultural factors has an important effect on the learning motivation of indigenous users when interacting with the DLO. Principles of the visual, auditory (or aural), read/write, kinesthetic (VARK) model and Kansei engineering were considered for the inclusion of the pedagogical, emotional and technological-functional aspects within the spiral model for the development of MODELI. The methodology was validated with the development of a DLO for a previously unknown variant of the Mixtec language. Usability tests of the DLO built with MODELI evidenced an improvement on the learning motivation and the value of cultural identity of indigenous children. These results are important for the preservation of indigenous languages in Mexico, because most of them are partially documented, and there is social rejection of indigenous culture caused by discrimination of ethnic communities.
Les racines culturelles de l'exotisme géographique, du Moyen Age à la Renaissance européenne
Authors: Lévy Bertrand
Published: July 2015

Résumé : L'article examine l'évolution de la conception du voyage du Moyen Age à la Renaissance, avec ses conséquences sur la naissance de l'exotisme. Au Moyen Age, les voyages, d'inspiration religieuse, vont de la périphérie vers le centre religieux du continent. Au contraire, à la Renaissance, les voyageurs se dirigent du centre (le continent européen) vers les périphéries extracontinentales, suite aux Grandes Découvertes. Ce changement d'échelle, d'orientation et de sens du voyage va provoquer un changement de regard sur l'autre et le lointain, qui passe d'une topophobie au Moyen Age à une topophilie à la Renaissance.
Les jardins zoologiques ou l'exotique à portée de main
Authors: Estebanez Jean
Published: July 2015

Abstract : This paper shows how the exotic is a key concept to analyse zoos. Wherever their location in the world, zoos always show the same core collection. Looking at what continents and animals zoos present, we can analyse them as a form of microcosm of the world, mainly constructed through the lenses of colonisation. Zoos try to build a place that is away in space and time, at a supposed golden age when few technology was between Nature and Mankind.
Le plus ancien pastoralisme en « territoires extrêmes » des Alpes italiennes centre-orientales
Authors: Marzatico Franco
Published: July 2015

Summary : During the IV millennium BC, between the Late Neolithic and Copper Age, studies unanimously recognise the establishment of Systems of posture exploitation at high altitudes in the Alpine region, in form of vertical transhumant grazing and summer mountain pasturing. This is evidenced by pollen analyses and the widespread findings of artefacts in the mountain area. The development of pastoral transhumance should improve the mobility of human groups, as indicated by the similarities in the ceramic types as well as the circulation ofraw materials and prestige items through the mountain range. From the end of the III mïllennium B.C., in the Early Bronze Age, a large increase of anthropic impact tied to pastoral practices is recorded in the Alpine région, with a systematic attendance of high altitude postures. Pastoral activities in the mountains, even if permeated from strong traditionalism, connotes an extremely complex and dynamic reality.
Enjeux écologiques de la coopération transfrontalière. Le cas du bassin franco-valdo-genevois
Authors: Greppin Hubert , Hussy Charles
Published: July 2015

Abstract : This contribution will pursue two goals : on one hand suggesting a systernic and ecological approach to fit the coaction between human activities and the natural physical and biological ones and, on the other hand to take stock of the main questions that concerned authorities are asked about geographical and political singularity resulting from the French-Valdo-Geneva Basin historical partition (BFVG).
Accueillir les hommes, blesser le territoire : une histoire du tourisme suisse d'après-guerre
Authors: Crivelli Ruggero
Published: July 2015

Le tourisme est une des branches traditionnelles de la Suisse contemporaine et occupe, selon les périodes, la troisième ou la quatrième place dans notre économie d''exportation. Le développement croissant de ce secteur exerce une pression très forte sur le paysage, cadre géographique fondamental de son existence. Les comportements des touristes, que nous sommes, amplifient les problèmes de la branche.
L'immersion mexicaine de Pino Cacucci
Authors: Hochkofler Gianni
Published: July 2015

L’article commente des récits de voyage, des essais historiques et des romans de Pino Cacucci, écrivain italien, consacrés au Mexique. Comment l’identité mexicaine, la géographie physique du pays, quelques villes importantes et peuples originaires sont-ils dépeints dans cette oeuvre ? Quelles couleurs, quelles senteurs, quelle atmosphère particulière caractérisent la " Mexicanidad" et son rapport ambigu à l’altérité états-unienne ? Telles sont les questions auxquelles s’efforce de répondre cette contribution.
La vidange du barrage de Verbois à Genève : que deviennent les Alpes dans tout ça ?
Authors: Sesiano Jean
Published: July 2015

L’article établit un lien entre un évènement local, la vidange du barrage de Verbois (canton de Genève), et les processus hydrologiques et géomorphologiques qui se déroulent à l’échelle régionale des Alpes et dans un temps long. Les conséquences écologiques de cette vidange sont mentionnées ainsi que quelques-unes de ses implications sur le plan géologique.
L'aire métropolitaine de Lisbonne à la croisée des chemins
Authors: Padeiro Miguel , Marques Da Costa Nuno
Published: July 2015

Résumé : Cet article jette un éclairage sur les mutations spatiales récentes de l’agglomération de Lisbonne. L’attention est portée sur la relative explosion urbaine qui s’est traduite par deux grandes catégories de formes urbaines, puis sur les tensions spatiales spécifiques au cas lisboète. Enfin est abordé le système de régulation urbaine, résultat du processus démocratique post-1974 et dont la marge de manoeuvre est limitée par une conjoncture défavorable à l’aménagement.
Quand les investissements privés dictent les projets urbains de revitalisation urbaine : une tendance inéluctable ? Le cas de Porto
Authors: Guinand Sandra
Published: July 2015

During the 2000s, there has been a paradigm shift in the conduct and the methods of financing urban regeneration projects in Porto. Led by the new regeneration company Porto Vivo SRU, these projects must be, if possible, selffinanced. This increasing tendency to look for private investments leads to an " opportunistic" strategy from Porto Vivo and the City in the conduct of urban development policy. This orientation tends to penalize any logic and coherent development of the city by guiding the urban projects’ program. However, it seems that other alternatives are possible.
Souvenir : le Portugal en 1962
Authors: Rohrer Maurice
Published: July 2015

L’article reprend une série de reportages effectués au Portugal par l’auteur en 1962, en tant qu’envoyé spécial du " Journal de Genève". Il décrit les secteurs d’activité principaux du pays (la pêche, l’agriculture, l’industrie timide) et pointe quelques problèmes sociaux de l’époque comme l’analphabétisme, le chômage endémique et la faiblesse de la classe moyenne. L’article établit le lien avec la situation économique actuelle du Portugal.
Mémoire : La migration féminine à l'épreuve du genre : progression ou régression de la condition féminine ?
Authors: Codeluppi Zoé
Published: July 2015

Ce travail s’intéresse à la relation qui existe entre le genre et la migration féminine internationale. Il s’agit de mettre en lumière l’impact de la migration sur les femmes. La mobilité leur permet-elle de s’autonomiser financièrement et politiquement ou, au contraire, la migration engendre-t-elle une régression de la condition de la femme ? Nous verrons que le phénomène migratoire féminin s’avère complexe et multidimensionnel.
Optimising Health Informatics Outcomes – Getting Good Evidence to Where it Matters
Authors: Rigby M.
Published: July 2015

This editorial is part of a For-Discussion-Section of Methods of Information in Medicine about the paper “Evidence-based Health informatics: How do we know what we know?”, written by Elske Ammenwerth [1]. Health informatics uses and applications have crept up on health systems over half a century, starting as simple automation of large-scale calculations, but now manifesting in many cases as rule- and algorithm-based creation of composite clinical analyses and ‘black box’ computation of clinical aspects, as well as enablement of increasingly complex care delivery modes and consumer health access. In this process health informatics has very largely bypassed the rules of precaution, proof of effectiveness, and assessment of safety applicable to all other health sciences and clinical support systems. Evaluation of informatics applications, compilation and recognition of the importance of evidence, and normalisation of Evidence Based Health Informatics, are now long overdue on grounds of efficiency and safety. Ammenwerth has now produced a rigorous analysis of the current position on evidence, and evaluation as its lifeblood, which demands careful study then active promulgation. Decisions based on political aspirations, ‘modernisation’ hopes, and unsupported commercial claims must cease – poor decisions are wasteful and bad systems can kill. Evidence Based Health Informatics should be promoted, and expected by users, as rigorously as Cochrane promoted Effectiveness and Efficiency, and Sackett promoted Evidence Based Medicine – both of which also were introduced retrospectively to challenge the less robust and partially unsafe traditional ‘wisdom’ in vogue. Ammenwerth’s analysis gives the necessary material to promote that mission.
Attention! 'Might' in Inquisitive Semantics
Authors: Ciardelli Ivano , Groenendijk Jeroen , Roelofsen Floris
Published: July 2015

This paper points out that the notion of meaning propounded by inquisitive semantics is not only suited to capture both informative and inquisitive content, but also a sentence’s potential to draw attention to certain possibilities. This gives rise to a novel analysis of 'might'.
Frequency adjectives and assertions about event types
Authors: Gehrke Berit , McNally Louise
Published: July 2015

No abstract.