bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An assessment of surgical outcome with the influencing factors of horizontal strabismus surgery
Authors: Pandey Saraswati , Pandey Araniko , Bajracharya Kabindra , Thapa Hari B , Shrestha Shakti , Bhari Arjun M , Rai Salma KC
Published: August 2017

Background: Influencing factors of conventional horizontal surgery for surgical outcome has not been assessed in Nepal. Aims and Objective: To assess the pre-operative factors that influences the surgical outcome of horizontal strabismus surgery. Materials and Methods: The medical records of 68 patients who underwent their first horizontal strabismus surgery at Lumbini Eye Institute from 1st January to 30th December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The collected clinical data included diagnosis, age group, visual acuity, binocular function, extraocular motility and pre and postoperative deviation. The success of surgery was defined by eye deviation less than 10 prism diopters (PD) at 6 weeks after operation. The influencing factors for surgical success (diagnosis, age group, visual acuity, binocular function, and angle deviations) were analyzed using chi square test and Mann-Whitney - U test, where ever appropriate.Results: Out of 113 patients who underwent strabismus surgery during the year, 68 patients were enrolled in the study. Majority of the patients (27, 39.7%) were >9 years of age and 52.9% were female. Thirty seven patients (54.4%) were esotropic whereas, 31 were exotropic. Preoperatively, angle of deviation ranged from 20 to 90 PD with binocular vision present in 57.4% cases. Overall, success was seen in 26 patients (38.2%). Pre-operative angle of deviation and binocular vision had statistical significance with surgical success (p = 0.012 and 0.026 respectively).Conclusion: Larger angle of deviation and poor binocular vision at presentation has higher failure rate for horizontal strabismus surgery.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.8(5) 2017 54-57
Modeling the Demand for New Transportation Services and Technologies
Authors: Miller Eric J.
Published: August 2017

This paper briefly discusses the current state of the art of urban travel demand modeling and research needs in the field. Special emphasis is given to both the challenges and the opportunities posed by modern information technology and the data, transportation services, and travel behaviors that this technology is generating. Travel demand modeling has made very significant strides over the past 20 years, especially in the development of operational activity- and tour-based regional travel demand forecasting systems. These model systems represent first-generation agent-based microsimulation models. Considerable need, opportunity, and scope exist for the development of significantly more powerful second-generation agent-based microsimulation models that build upon emerging big data sets (among other information sources) and high-performance computing. This task, however, will involve the development of new behavioral representations and computational algorithms implemented within much more flexible software environments that both fully exploit available computing power and enable flexible experimentation with and extension of representations of new transportation modes and services and evolving travel behavior.
Modeling the Impact of Communications Technologies on Travel Behavior and Land Use
Authors: Moeckel Rolf
Published: August 2017

The widespread use of communications technologies has changed the way people travel. Transport modeling offers the opportunity to analyze this impact and test innovations, policies, and future trends before they actually happen. The impact of smartphones, GPS, and telework has been researched insufficiently, despite the impact of these technologies on travel behavior. Autonomous vehicles are expected to be widely available in the near future, but their impact on travel behavior is largely unknown. Last but not least, social networks have a dominating impact on the activities people pursue, the destinations they choose, the mode they use, and with whom they travel. This paper describes a framework for an integrated land use–transport model for analyzing the impact of communications technologies on travel behavior. Social networks are simulated explicitly. The impact of communications technologies on both land use, such as the impact on a housing search, auto ownership, or work place choice, as well as travel behavior such as activity generation, destination choice, or mode choice, can be simulated with this modeling suite.
Framework for Real-Time Traffic Management with Case Studies
Authors: Han Ke
Published: August 2017

This paper focuses on real-time traffic management facilitated by modern telecommunication technologies and advanced real-time optimization algorithms. The discussion begins with a recent European project that provides a real-time decision support system for the reduction of traffic congestion and emissions. The workflow and techniques involved therein are explained and issues and potential gaps identified. A more generic real-time decision-making framework based on decision rules and distributionally robust optimization is then introduced. The paper illustrates the wide applicability and unique advantages of such a framework with case studies on responsive signal control, use of an adaptive variable message sign, and air traffic management.
Telecommunications- and Information Technology–Inspired Analyses: Review of an Intelligent Transportation Systems Experience
Authors: Chan Yupo
Published: August 2017

This paper reviews both the author’s experience with managing highway network traffic on a real-time basis and the ongoing research into harnessing the potential of telecommunications and information technology (IT). On the basis of the lessons learned, this paper speculates about how telecommunications and IT capabilities can respond to current and future developments in traffic management. Issues arising from disruptive telecommunications technologies include the ready availability of real-time information, the crowdsourcing of information, the challenges of big data, and the need for information quality. Issues arising from transportation technologies include autonomous vehicles and connected vehicles and new taxi-like car- and bikesharing. Illustrations are drawn from the following core functions of a traffic management center: ( a) detecting and resolving an incident (possibly through crowdsourcing), ( b) monitoring and forecasting traffic (possibly through connected vehicles serving as sensors), ( c) advising motorists about routing alternatives (possibly through real-time information), and ( d) configuring traffic control strategies and tactics (possibly though big data). The conclusion drawn is that agility is the key to success in an ever-evolving technological scene. The solid guiding principle remains innovative and rigorous analytical procedures that build on the state of the art in the field, including both hard and soft technologies. The biggest modeling and simulation challenge remains the unknown, including such rapidly emerging trends as the Internet of things and the smart city.
Tetrahymena pyriformis Phagocytic Activity Test for Rapid Toxicity Assessment of Aquatic Micropollutants
Authors: Fekete-Kertész Ildikó , Ullmann Orsolya , Csizmár Panni , Molnár Mónika
Published: August 2017

The increasing worldwide contamination of freshwater ecosystems with micropollutants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, hormones, industrial chemicals and pesticides is a key environmental problem facing humanity nowadays. In order to assess the adverse effect of six organic micropollutants (atrazine, bisphenol A, dibutyl phthalate, 17β-estradiol, 3,4-dichlorophenol and Na-diclofenac) a short term phagocytic activity test was applied with Tetrahymena pyriformis representing an important trophic level of aquatic ecosystems.Significant concentration-dependent response in phagocytic activity was experienced to 17β-estradiol and other endocrine disrupting compounds such as 3,4-dichlorophenol, atrazine and dibutyl phthalate with lowest observed effect concentration of 0.01; 0.005; 0.05; 0.05 µg/L, respectively. Although bisphenol A and Na-diclofenac did not result in a concentration-dependent response, significant changes in phagocytic activity were observed.Our results suggest that the phagocytic activity assay relying on a basic cell response can be a valuable method for the early and sensitive indication of adverse effects of micropollutants.
Age and Gender Difference of Typhoid Fever among Paediatric Patients Attended at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Sattar AFM Arshedi , Chowdhury Mohammad Shah Jahirul Haque , Yusuf Md Abdullah , Jesmin Sabina , Ara Showkot , Islam Md Badrul
Published: August 2017

Background: Typhoid fever varies according to different age and gender of the patients. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to observe different age and gender of typhoid fever patients among the paediatric group. Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted at Department of Microbiology at Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2006 to December 2008 for a period of two (2) years. Blood samples from clinically suspected typhoid fever patients of different age and sex group was collected. Blood culture was done in all patients in the first week of illness. Widal test was done in all patients by using the first serum samples and in case of culture negative patients second serum samples (paired sera) were also tested by widal agglutination test. DOT Enzyme Immunoassay was also done in culture positive and culture negative typhoid patients by using the first serum sample. Result: A total number of 118(59%) paediatric patients were recruited. The highest rate of blood culture positivity for S. typhi was found among patients within 6 to 15 years of age group (19.14%). The rate of isolation of Salmonella typhi from blood of male patients were 19(15.1%) out of 126 cases and female patients were 11(14.9%) (P>0.05). The highest number of patients was in the low income group (72.5%). Highest number, 37(63.8%) patients were within the 6-15 years of age group followed by 13(22.41%) in 16-25years age group. Conclusion: In conclusion typhoid fever mostly occurs in the age group of 6 to 15 years male patients with low socioeconomic status. Bangladesh Journal of Infectious Diseases 2016;3(2):36-39
Acute Spontaneous Multiple Ileal Tuberculosis Perforation: A Case Report
Authors: Aminullah Md , Rima Fahmida Akter , Naser Jamal Abdul , Kabir Farzana , Fuad Waliullah , Ahmed Fahria , Hoque Rezwanul
Published: August 2017

A 18 years old boy presented with severe diffuse abdominal pain, constipation, abdominal distention, fever and diagnosed as a case of perforation as free gas noted under both dome of the diaphragm. After resuscitation, exploratory laparotomy was done and diagnosed as a case of multiple spontaneous leaky perforations of jejunum and ileum 25 to 30 cm from duodeno-Jejunal flexure (DJ) up to terminal ileum. Peritoneal toileting and excisional biopsy of the mesenteric lymph node were done. Operative and postoperative period were uneventful. Histopathological examination of the resected lymph node revealed granulomatous inflammation compatible with tuberculosis. Anti-tubercular therapy was started and continued for 6 months. Patient was discharged on the 12th postoperative day in a good condition. At 3 months of follow up the patient was asymptomatic and thriving well. Free perforation is one of the most feared complications of the intestinal tuberculosis. The terminal ileum is the most common site of perforation, while the majority of (90%) perforations are solitary. Bangladesh Journal of Infectious Diseases 2016;3(2):52-54
An Approach to Estimation of Gas Reserve of Narshingdi Gas Field in Bangladesh with Dynamic Reservoir Simulation
Authors: Akter Farhana
Published: August 2017

Increasing demand of fuel globally formulates gas as one of the most valuable natural resources. There is lot of uncertainties in estimating hydrocarbon volume correctly from exploration to development stage of a gas field. The accuracy and reliability of data (reservoir geological model, fluid and rock properties) make the implement very hard-hitting. So estimating and updating the gas reserve has become vital issue, as it helps the planners for drawing mid-term and long-term development plan from field development level to national level. This paper presents the study of reserve estimation of a Narshingdi Gas Field in Bangladesh. In this paper, a dynamic reservoir simulation model has been used to perform a history match ?pressure and production? using commercial simulator for reserve estimation. The result of this study is expected to provide Gas Initially in Place (GIIP) and recoverable gas volume. Simultaneously three forecast scenarios have also been investigated. There is no strong aquifer pressure support in the producing gas zone, so gas production continues from the reservoir due to pressure depletion.Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 29, No. 1, 2017: 19-23
Preparation of Biodiesel From Karanja (Pongamia Pinnata) Oil
Authors: Uddin M Rakib , Ferdous Kaniz , Mondal Sukanta Kumar , Khan Maksudur R , Islam MA
Published: August 2017

Biodiesel is a biodegradable, sustainable and clean energy has worldwide attracted renewed and growing interest in topical years, chiefly due to development in biodiesel fuel and ecological pressures which include climatic changes. In this paper, karanja (pongamia pinnata) seed has been studied as a potential source for biodiesel preparation. Karanja oil is extracted from the seed by different methods. Oil properties have been measured by standard methods. Acid catalyzed transesterification, acid catalyzed two-step method and three-step method have been studied for biodiesel preparation from karanja oil. In the three-step method, the first step is saponification followed by acidification to produce free fatty acid (FFA) and finally esterification of FFA to produce biodiesel. In saponification, acidification and esterification reaction, the reaction parameters were optimized. Silica gel was used in both transesterification and esterification to adsorb water, produced in the reaction hence increase the reaction rate. Properties of biodiesel such as specific gravity, FFA, Viscosity, saponification value, iodine value, cloud point, pour point, flash point, cetane index, calorific value etc are measured and compared to conventional diesel fuel and standard biodiesel.Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 29, No. 1, 2017: 24-28
Study of Thyroid Hormone Status in Normal Newborn and Preterm, Low Birth Weight Baby
Authors: Iqbal Tanvir , Ali M Obaidulla Ibne , Atia Nur E , Islam Tahorul
Published: August 2017

Background: Screening for thyroid hormones in the newborn baby is extremely important to detect the newborns who are borned with hypofunctional state of thyroid gland. This screening program in first few weeks of life is essential to prevent serious complications of hypothyroidism in future such as mental retardation.Objective: To assess the thyroid hormone levels in normal newborn and preterm, low birth weight babies and comparison of thyroid dysfunction between these two groups.Method: This cross - sectional analytical type of study was conducted in the department of physiology and paediatrics of Rajshahi Medical College & Hospital (RMCH) from July 2015 to June 2016. A total of 70 newborn baby were enrolled by systematic sampling of which 40 were normal healthy newborn and 30 were preterm, low birth weight babies. Data was collected from the parents and they were filled out standard questionnaire. Then venous blood was collected from each and every neonate and blood was sent to laboratory for estimation of thyroid hormone levels. FT4 and TSH values were estimated as these two are the most important parameters for determination of thyroid function.Result: In this study, the mean (±SD) serum FT4 level in term and preterm neonates were 14.17±2.14 and 12.25±3.16 (pg/ml) respectively. This FT4 value is significantly higher in term neonates than preterm neonates (P<0.05). The mean (±SD) serum TSH level in term and preterm neonates were 3.37±2.12 and 4.23±3.23 (?IU/ml) respectively. Statistically there was no significant difference in TSH values between these two groups (P 0.05).Conclusion: From this study it was evident that preterm, low birth weight babies are more likely to develop hypofunctional state of thyroid gland than normal term babies. The newborns who were found hypothyroid, were informed to their parents for consultation with the concerned physicians. The physicians then took necessary steps to correct the hypofunctional state of thyroid gland.KYAMC Journal Vol. 7, No.-2, Jan 2017, Page 787-790
Glycemic Status During Different Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Mahmuda Shahin , Akhter Nasima , Pervin Farhana , Asafudullah SM , Habib Md Anwar
Published: August 2017

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) during pregnancy cause significant fetal and maternal morbidity. Evaluation of glycemic status throughout the pregnancy especially during second and third trimesters is of paramount importance to detect GDM and IGT cases. This can help taking appropriate control measures and to avoid unwanted feto-maternal outcomes. The focus of this research is to understand variation of glycemic status at different trimester and generate a baseline data for Bangladesh using a case study. A total of 300 pregnant women at different trimester of pregnancy were recruited for the study. Plasma glucose levels both fasting and post prandial were done by standard laboratory procedure in all pregnant women included in this study. Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) level of all pregnant women were also estimated and expressed in percentage (%). Out of 300 pregnant women 57% were in 3rd , 32% were in the 2nd and 11 % were in the 1st trimester. The results found 3%, 6.3% and 4.1% pregnant women in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester respectively had significantly raised level of postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) and HbA1c levels with cumulative prevalence of 4.7%. This finding is consistent with the range of GDM as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates in different population study. The finding from this research will be beneficial to understand the risk for GDM implement patient screening plan to work effectively in Bangladesh.KYAMC Journal Vol. 7, No.-2, Jan 2017, Page 791-794
Chikungunya- yet another mosquito borne epidemic burden for Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Kazi Shihab
Published: August 2017

Abstract not availableKYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 1-3
Comparative Cytotoxicity Study of Cisplatin and its Metabolites by using Brine Shrimp Lethality Bioassay
Authors: Rahman AKM Shahidur , Islam Md Anwar Ul , Misbahuddin Mir , Parvin Nishat , Khan Md Moniruzzaman
Published: August 2017

Background: Cisplatin an old chemotherapeutic agent used to treat various types of cancers, including sarcomas, some carcinomas e.g. small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer, lymphomas and germ cell tumors etc. Most important toxicity of cisplatin is nephrotoxicity produced by cisplatin itself and its few metabolites, which are some time fatal.Objectives: Present study was to determined the comparative study and the level of toxicities of cisplatin and their metabolires by using Brine Shrimp Lethality Bioassay.Methods: In this study, cisplatin and its four possible metabolites (CM2 to CM5) were isolated from the 24 hours collected urines of 5 cisplatin treated cancer patients using conventional chromatographic techniques as well as HPLC, were placed to comparative cytotoxic study using brine shrimp lethality bioassay.Results: Comparative to cisplatin, its metabolites are more toxic, specially CM2 (Meta 2, LC50=1.2?gm/ml) and CM3 (LC50=1.08 ?gm/ml), CM4 (Meta 4, LC50=1.182?gm/ml) which is correlate to the previous study (p<0.01*).Conclusion: Cisplatin can form monohydrated complexes by hydrolytic reactions. The monohydrated complex is more toxic to the renal cells than cisplatin but it is not kidney specific.KYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 15-20
Prevalence of Nephropathy with Evaluation of HbA1c Level and other Associated Risk Factors in Type 2 Diabetic Patients in a Tertiary Level Hospital
Authors: Hoque Sayama , Muttalib MA , Islam Md Imtiajul , Khanam Parvin Akter , Akter Nasrin , Akber Taslima
Published: August 2017

Background: Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease which ultimately results end-stage renal disease (ESRD).Objectives: The purpose of the study was to explore the factors influencing or related to the development of the diabetic nephropathy with specific concern to the HbA1c (glycosylated hemoglobin) levels.Methods: Four hundred type 2 diabetic patients (male 166 and female 234) were studied and were evaluated for the presence of nephropathy through the review of their registered diabetic guide book. Glycaemic status was assessed by HbA1c (HbA1c was categorized into 3 groups) and plasma glucose levels. We used Student's ttest,?2-test and logistic regression analysis to determine and quantify the association of diabetic nephropathy with various risk factors specially HbA1c.Results: The prevalence of nephropathy was 24.0%; male 27.1%, female 21.8%. Increasing HbA1c categories above 7.0% were significantly associated with increased prevalence of nephropathy (15.8 vs 22.8 vs 30.7%; ?2 = 8.590, p = .013). Logistic regression models of univariate analysis showed that the risk of nephropathy was strongly increased at the HbA1c categories 8% (OR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.30-4.25). Advanced age (OR = 3.8; 95% CI: 2.21-6.53), longer duration of diabetes (OR = 4.05; 95% CI: 2.31-7.10), lacking of physical exercise (OR = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.20-3.10), presence of hypertension (OR = 4.62; 95% CI: 2.42-8.83), fasting blood glucose (OR = 1.139; 95% CI: 1.054-1.231), blood glucose 2 hours after breakfast (OR = 1.088; 95% CI: 1.028-1.152), systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.049; 95% CI: 1.030-1.069) and diastolic blood pressure (OR = 1.061; 95% CI: 1.026-1.097) had significant association with nephropathy.Conclusion: HbA1c categories >7.0% is an important risk factor for the development of nephropathy.KYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 21-26
Diseases Pattern in The Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation in A Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Mandal Muhammad Alamgir , Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Mahmood Khurshid , Islam Md Jahidul , Uddin Kazi Shihab
Published: August 2017

Background: The field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation focuses on the restoration of health and function and reintegration of the patient into the community, Providing services (outdoor & indoor patients) of physical medicine & rehabilitation (PMR) department was started in 2015. Since establishment, department of Physical Medicine is providing services as outdoor basis regularly.Aim & Objectives: The purpose of the study was to observe the disease pattern and demographic characteristics of patients attending the department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in a tertiary care hospital.Methods: This is a retrospective study carried out at the department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College Hospital (KYAMCH), Sirajganj for the period of one year from 1st January, 2016 to 31st December, 2016.Results: Total eighteen hundred sixty five (n = 1865) patients were studied, of which 46.21% were male and 53.78% were female. The mean age was 34.64 ± 5.36 years; maximum patients (25.14%) belong to 31-40 years of age. Maximum patients (78%) were come from out of Sirajgonj District specially North Bengal. Regarding disease pattern, 21.60% were PLID, 10.99% stroke, cervical spondylosis 11.15%, lumbar spondylosis 11.52%, frozen shoulder 10.83%, low back pain 9.49%, osteoarthritis 8.25%, facial palsy 0.43% rheumatoid arthritis 5.47%, seronegetavive Spondyloarthopathy 0.26%, GBS 0.10% acute neck sprain/strain 5.68% and others 4.18%.Conclusion: A large scale multi-centered study should be performed in the country. A uniform data system should be constructed for Medical rehabilitation in Bangladesh. Maximum patients were having PLID, Cervical spondylosis, lumbar spondylosis, Stroke & Frozen shoulder.KYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 33-37
Success and Limitations of ERCP in the Management of Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Rahman Md Masudar , Sharif Md Sayed Bin , Rahman Azizur , Khan Md Rashed , Mandal Muhammad Alamgir
Published: August 2017

Background: Obstructive jaundice can be caused by malignant or benign lesions. The treatment for these conditions is biliary decompression either by surgery or by endoscopic methods.Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic role of ERCP with its success and limitations in the management of obstructive jaundice.Methods: This study was carried out in the depertment of General Surgery & hepato-biliary surgery in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University during 1st January, 2012 to 30th June,2012.Results: The study included 60 patients (male, 38, female,22), mean age 45 years(range, 21-70 years). Commonest malignant cause of obstructive jaundice was Carcinoma of the pancreas 27% followed by, cholangiocarcinoma 15%, and periampullary carcinoma 8%. Bile duct stone 32% was the commonest benign cause followed by papillary stenosis 13% and round warm in biliary tree 5%. Stenting were done in 42% of patients and success rate was 92%. Biopsy were taken for diagnosis in 8% for papillary tumours. Stone extraction were done in 32% of patients for CBD stone and success rate was >94%. Warm extraction were done in 5% and sphincterotomy in 11% of patients for papillary stenosis where success rate was 100%. ERCP could not be performed due to stenosis of duodenum in 1.66% of patients, complete papillary obstruction in 3.33%, papillary position abnormality in 3.33% and endoscopically ampulla not found in 5% of patients. The commonest post ERCP complication was acute pancreatitis that was 5%. Other complications include bleeding in 3.33%, perforation in 1.66% and acute cholangitis in 3.33% cases.Conclusion: Despite its associated limitations and complication, ERCP is a reliable method in treating obstructive jaundice for most of the benign conditions and stenting as a palliative measure & tissue diagnosis in malignant obstruction. In this study the success rate is acceptable for ERCP in the management of obstructive jaundice.KYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 38-42
Mixed Connective Tissue Disease- A Rare and Distinct Rheumatological Case Study
Authors: Uddin Kazi Shihab , Mandal Muhammad Alamgir , Ali Md Zulfikar
Published: August 2017

In this article we present this 35 year old lady with history of fever, multiple joints pain with swelling and skin conditions such as tightening, glistening and bluish discoloration while exposure to cold. After taking detailed history and clinical examinations, she was found to have features consistent with multiple rheumatological conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. With directed and specific investigation she was diagnosed to have Mixed Connective Tissue disorder.KYAMC Journal Vol. 8, No.-1, Jul 2017, Page 61-63
Efficacy and Safety of Topical Tacrolimus (0.03%) in the Treatment Localized Vitiligo
Authors: Husain Md Anwar , Alam Mohd Nurul , Rahim Rezaur , Joarder Yasmin , Wahidujjaman - , Ferdous Monalisa
Published: August 2017

Vitiligo is an acquired, pigmentary skin disorder which is disfiguring and difficult to treat. Phototherapy and application of topical corticosteroids are most commonly prescribed. However, these therapies are often not effective and use of corticosteroids on the face may lead to cutaneous atrophy, telangiectasia, and ocular complications. This case control study was conducted among the patients who sought health care in the Dermatology and Venereology out patient department of Ibn Sina Medical College, Dhaka from January, 2014 to June, 2015. The study was conducted with a view to evaluate the efficacy of topical tacrolimus in localized vitiligo and to see the adverse effects of topical tacrolimus in the treatment of vitiligo. This study assessed the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment in patients with vitiligo compared with control. 60 patients were enrolled as case group, among them 22 were male and 38 were female. There mean age was 23.33 years with a standard deviation of ±11.43 years. Another 60 patients were enrolled as control group. Patients in case group were treated with tacrolimus 0.03% ointment applied twice daily. Monthly evaluations were performed. At six months, 50 patients (89%) achieved varying levels of repigmentation. There was a statistically significant decrease depigmentation & increase pigmentation at sixth month. Mean area of repigmentation was 33.33% with a standard deviation of ±23.90. 24 patients (40.0%) had reported up to 50% repigmentation. Sign and symptoms of erythema (10%) and burning (10%) were minimal. In conclusion, it is proposed that tacrolimus ointment may be a efficacious and safe option for the treatment of vitiligo. The ease of topical self-administration with minimal side effects makes this novel immunomodulatory agent a promising addition to the therapeutic armamentarium for vitiligo.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(1): 1-5
Short Term Outcom e of Orchiopexy for Undescended Testis in Children
Authors: Pervez MM Masud , Enayet SM Sabbir , Narmeen Tamanna , Nooruzzaman Md , Shahnaz Mahjib , Chowdhury ATM Mowladad
Published: August 2017

This prospective study was conducted in the department of pediatric surgery, BIRDEM General Hospital and other Private Hospital in Dhakato evaluate the morphological parameters after orchiopexy in Undescended testis (UDT). Fifty five children of cryptorchidism in the age group of 6 months to12 years were included in the study from September 2012 to March 2017. Patients' clinical characteristics, age at the time of orchiopexy, pre-operative ultrasonogram finding and intraoperative findings were recorded. On follow up postoperative complications and scrotal ultrasonogram findings were also recorded. Total 45 patients received regular ultrasound follow-up in next 6 months. Testicular length, width, position of the testes and any abnormal findings were documented. The testicular volume was then calculated with Hansen formula:Testicular volume= length (L) x width (W)2 x 0.52. The mean age at operation was 4.15 years. Sixty eightpercent of undescended testes were palpable, 97% of which could be initially placed in the scrotal position by surgery. Ninety threepercent remained in the scrotum at 6-month follow up. In 32% of cases, the testes were impalpable, 47% were intra-abdominal and 15.7% were absent. Eighty seven percent of all impalpable testes could be placed in the scrotum. At 6 months follow up, only 69% were in the scrotal position. Eighteen percent of impalpable testes and 2.4% of palpable testes underwent atrophy. The volume of scrotalized testis increased significantly after orchiopexy though the volume of undescended testis was smaller than that of normal descended testis in all age subgroups and revealed a slow growing trend.Medicine Today 2017 Vol.29(1): 35-38
Overview and current management of computerized adaptive testing in licensing/certification examinations
Authors: Seo Dong Gi
Published: August 2017

Computerized adaptive testing (CAT) has been implemented in high-stakes examinations such as the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurses in the United States since 1994. Subsequently, the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians in the United States adopted CAT for certifying emergency medical technicians in 2007. This was done with the goal of introducing the implementation of CAT for medical health licensing examinations. Most implementations of CAT are based on item response theory, which hypothesizes that both the examinee and items have their own characteristics that do not change. There are 5 steps for implementing CAT: first, determining whether the CAT approach is feasible for a given testing program; second, establishing an item bank; third, pretesting, calibrating, and linking item parameters via statistical analysis; fourth, determining the specification for the final CAT related to the 5 components of the CAT algorithm; and finally, deploying the final CAT after specifying all the necessary components. The 5 components of the CAT algorithm are as follows: item bank, starting item, item selection rule, scoring procedure, and termination criterion. CAT management includes content balancing, item analysis, item scoring, standard setting, practice analysis, and item bank updates. Remaining issues include the cost of constructing CAT platforms and deploying the computer technology required to build an item bank. In conclusion, in order to ensure more accurate estimations of examinees’ ability, CAT may be a good option for national licensing examinations. Measurement theory can support its implementation for high-stakes examinations.
Understanding Animal Detection of Precursor Earthquake Sounds
Authors: Garstang Michael , Kelley Michael
Published: August 2017

We use recent research to provide an explanation of how animals might detect earthquakes before they occur. While the intrinsic value of such warnings is immense, we show that the complexity of the process may result in inconsistent responses of animals to the possible precursor signal. Using the results of our research, we describe a logical but complex sequence of geophysical events triggered by precursor earthquake crustal movements that ultimately result in a sound signal detectable by animals. The sound heard by animals occurs only when metal or other surfaces (glass) respond to vibrations produced by electric currents induced by distortions of the earth’s electric fields caused by the crustal movements. A combination of existing measurement systems combined with more careful monitoring of animal response could nevertheless be of value, particularly in remote locations.
Lamin B Receptor: Interplay between Structure, Function and Localization
Authors: Nikolakaki Eleni , Mylonis Ilias , Giannakouros Thomas
Published: August 2017

Lamin B receptor (LBR) is an integral protein of the inner nuclear membrane, containing a hydrophilic N-terminal end protruding into the nucleoplasm, eight hydrophobic segments that span the membrane and a short, nucleoplasmic C-terminal tail. Two seemingly unrelated functions have been attributed to LBR. Its N-terminal domain tethers heterochromatin to the nuclear periphery, thus contributing to the shape of interphase nuclear architecture, while its transmembrane domains exhibit sterol reductase activity. Mutations within the transmembrane segments result in defects in cholesterol synthesis and are associated with diseases such as the Pelger–Huët anomaly and Greenberg skeletal dysplasia, whereas no such harmful mutations related to the anchoring properties of LBR have been reported so far. Recent evidence suggests a dynamic regulation of LBR expression levels, structural organization, localization and function, in response to various signals. The molecular mechanisms underlying this dynamic behavior have not yet been fully unraveled. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of the interplay between the structure, function and localization of LBR, and hint at the interconnection of the two distinct functions of LBR.
Weight Status and Dental Problems in Early Childhood: Classification Tree Analysis of a National Cohort
Authors: Crowe Michael , O’ Sullivan Michael , Cassetti Oscar , O’ Sullivan Aifric
Published: August 2017

A poor quality diet may be a common risk factor for both obesity and dental problems such as caries. The aim of this paper is to use classification tree analysis (CTA) to identify predictors of dental problems in a nationally representative cohort of Irish pre-school children. CTA was used to classify variables and describe interactions between multiple variables including socio-demographics, dietary intake, health-related behaviour, body mass index (BMI) and a dental problem. Data were derived from the second (2010/2011) wave of the ‘Growing Up in Ireland’ study (GUI) infant cohort at 3 years, n = 9793. The prevalence of dental problems was 5.0% (n = 493). The CTA model showed a sensitivity of 67% and specificity of 58.5% and overall correctly classified 59% of children. Ethnicity was the most significant predictor of dental problems followed by longstanding illness or disability, mother’s BMI and household income. The highest prevalence of dental problems was among children who were obese or underweight with a longstanding illness and an overweight mother. Frequency of intake of some foods showed interactions with the target variable. Results from this research highlight the interconnectedness of weight status, dental problems and general health and reinforce the importance of adopting a common risk factor approach when dealing with prevention of these diseases.
Functional Response Trait Analysis Improves Climate Sensitivity Estimation in Beech Forests at a Trailing Edge
Authors: Salamon-Albert Éva , Abaligeti Gallusz , Ortmann-Ajkai Adrienne
Published: August 2017

Functional response traits influence the ability of species to colonize and thrive in a habitat and to persist under environmental challenges. Functional traits can be used to evaluate environment-related processes and phenomena. They also help to interpret distribution patterns, especially under limiting ecological conditions. In this study, we investigate landscape-scale functional distribution responses of beech forests in a climatic transitional zone in Europe. We construct empirical density distribution responses for beech forests by applying coping-resilience-failure climatic traits based on 27 bioclimatic variables, resulting in prevalence-decay-exclusion distribution response patterns. We also perform multivariate exploratory cluster analysis to reveal significant sets of response patterns from the resilience and adaptation aspects. Temperature-related distribution responses presented a prevalence-dominated functional pattern, with Annual mean temperature indicating the most favorable adaptation function. Precipitation indices showed climate-limited response patterns with the dominance of extinction function. Considering regional site-specific climate change projections, these continental beech forests could regress moderately due to temperature increase in the near future. Our results also suggest that both summer and winter precipitation could play a pivotal role in successful resilience. Functions and variables that indicate climate sensitivity can serve as a useful starting point to develop adaptation measures for regional forest management.
Private Citizenship: Real Estate Practice in Palestine
Authors: Mufreh Athar
Published: August 2017

What is the function of the new towns and real estate developments in Palestine?[...]
Selective Removal of the Genotoxic Compound 2-Aminopyridine in Water using Molecularly Imprinted Polymers Based on Magnetic Chitosan and β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhu Zhiliang , Zhang Hua , Qiu Yanling
Published: August 2017

To develop efficient materials with enhanced adsorption and selectivity for genotoxic 2-aminopyridine in water, based on magnetic chitosan (CTs) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), the magnetic molecularly imprinted polymers (MMIPs) of Fe3O4-CTs@MIP and Fe3O4-MAH-β-CD@MIP were synthesized by a molecular imprinting technique using 2-aminopyridine as a template. The selective adsorption experiments for 2-aminopyridine were performed by four analogues including pyridine, aniline, 2-amino-5-chloropyridine and phenylenediamine. Results showed the target 2-aminopyridine could be selectively adsorbed and quickly separated by the synthesized MMIPs in the presence of the above structural analogues. The coexisting ions including Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Cl− and SO42− showed little effect on the adsorption of 2-aminopyridine. The maximum adsorption capacity of 2-aminopyridine on Fe3O4-CTs@MIP and Fe3O4-MAH-β-CD@MIP was 39.2 mg·g−1 and 46.5 mg·g−1, respectively, which is much higher than values in previous reports. The comparison result with commercial activated carbon showed the obtained MMIPs had higher adsorption ability and selectivity for 2-aminopyridine. In addition, the synthesized MMIPs exhibited excellent performance of regeneration, which was used at least five times with little adsorption capacity loss. Therefore, the synthesized MMIPs are potential effective materials in applications for selective removal and analysis of the genotoxic compound aminopyridine from environmental water.
Fitness, Fatness and Active School Commuting among Liverpool Schoolchildren
Authors: Noonan Robert J. , Boddy Lynne M. , Knowles Zoe R. , Fairclough Stuart J.
Published: August 2017

This study investigated differences in health outcomes between active and passive school commuters, and examined associations between parent perceptions of the neighborhood environment and active school commuting (ASC). One hundred-ninety-four children (107 girls), aged 9–10 years from ten primary schools in Liverpool, England, participated in this cross-sectional study. Measures of stature, body mass, waist circumference and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) were taken. School commute mode (active/passive) was self-reported and parents completed the neighborhood environment walkability scale for youth. Fifty-three percent of children commuted to school actively. Schoolchildren who lived in more deprived neighborhoods perceived by parents as being highly connected, unaesthetic and having mixed land-use were more likely to commute to school actively (p < 0.05). These children were at greatest risk of being obese and aerobically unfit(p < 0.01). Our results suggest that deprivation may explain the counterintuitive relationship between obesity, CRF and ASC in Liverpool schoolchildren. These findings encourage researchers and policy makers to be equally mindful of the social determinants of health when advocating behavioral and environmental health interventions. Further research exploring contextual factors to ASC, and examining the concurrent effect of ASC and diet on weight status by deprivation is needed.
Impact of Novel Prebiotic Galacto-Oligosaccharides on Various Biomarkers of Colorectal Cancer in Wister Rats
Authors: Qamar Tahir , Iqbal Sanaullah , Syed Fatima , Nasir Muhammad , Rehman Habib , Iqbal Muhammad , Liu Rui
Published: August 2017

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths around the globe. Bioactive food ingredients such as prebiotics have protective potential in colon cancer. Data on galacto-oligosaccharides (GalOS) against CRC are very limited and GalOS used in this study have β-1,6 and β-1,3 as major glycosidic linkages and, to our best knowledge, were never used before against any cancer treatment. This study aims to investigate the protective role of novel GalOS against various biomarkers of CRC including aberrant crypt foci (ACF), bacterial enzymes and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in a rodent model induced with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine dihydrochloride (DMH). Inulin group was taken as positive control in present study to compare novel GalOS protective effects. GalOS doses of 76–151 mg and inulin doses of 114 mg were given to different groups treated with DMH. Results showed that ACF formation was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) less in high dose GalOS group (27.3%). GalOS also had protective effects against DMH-induced body weight loss and showed higher level of cecal and fecal SCFA (acetate, propionate and butyrate). High doses of GalOS also resulted in significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction of bacterial enzymatic activities. Increased populations of beneficial bacteria (bifidobacteria and lactobacilli) and decreased concentrations of harmful bacteria were observed in all prebiotics treatment groups. It can be concluded that novel GalOS exhibit robust protective activity against ACF formation in vivo.
A Novel Workflow to Enrich and Isolate Patient-Matched EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative CTCs Enables the Comparative Characterization of the PIK3CA Status in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Lampignano Rita , Yang Liwen , Neumann Martin , Franken André , Fehm Tanja , Niederacher Dieter , Neubauer Hans
Published: August 2017

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), potential precursors of most epithelial solid tumors, are mainly enriched by epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)-dependent technologies. Hence, these approaches may overlook mesenchymal CTCs, considered highly malignant. Our aim was to establish a workflow to enrich and isolate patient-matched EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative CTCs within the same blood samples, and to investigate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutational status within single CTCs. We sequentially processed metastatic breast cancer (MBC) blood samples via CellSearch® (EpCAM-based) and via Parsortix™ (size-based) systems. After enrichment, cells captured in Parsortix™ cassettes were stained in situ for nuclei, cytokeratins, EpCAM and CD45. Afterwards, sorted cells were isolated via CellCelector™ micromanipulator and their genomes were amplified. Lastly, PIK3CA mutational status was analyzed by combining an amplicon-based approach with Sanger sequencing. In 54% of patients′ blood samples both EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative cells were identified and successfully isolated. High genomic integrity was observed in 8% of amplified genomes of EpCAMlow/negative cells vs. 28% of EpCAMhigh cells suggesting an increased apoptosis in the first CTC-subpopulation. Furthermore, PIK3CA hotspot mutations were detected in both EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative CTCs. Our workflow is suitable for single CTC analysis, permitting—for the first time—assessment of the heterogeneity of PIK3CA mutational status within patient-matched EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative CTCs.
Effect of Coiling Temperature on Microstructure, Properties and Resistance to Fish-Scaling of Hot Rolled Enamel Steel
Authors: Zhao Yang , Huang Xueqi , Yu Bo , Yuan Xiaoyun , Liu Xianghua
Published: August 2017

The microstructure, mechanical properties, and hydrogen permeation behavior of hot rolled enamel steel were investigated. Three coiling temperatures were adopted to gain different sizes of ferrite grain and TiC precipitates. The results show that a large number of interphase precipitates of nano-sized TiC can be obtained at coiling temperatures of 650 and 700 °C, while a few precipitates are found in experimental steel when coiling temperature is 600 °C. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength decrease with increasing coiling temperature, while elongation increases. The experimental steel has the best resistance to fish-scaling at coiling temperature of 700 °C, due to the large quantities of nano-sized interphase precipitates of TiC.