bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimate of time required for environmentally friendly flushing in Dez dam reservoir
Authors: Khakzad Hamid , Ivanovich Elfimov Valery
Published: March 2015

Environmentally friendly flushing aims to send only the concentrations of the sediment that the environment can withstand. In this study, the time required for environmentally friendly flushing in Dez dam reservoir was estimated. For this purpose, the relationship between the concentration, duration, and scale of the severity of ill-effect for fish was considered. A study was conducted on Dez dam reservoir in Iran, where the average historical outflow from the dam, and the volume of sediment flushing was evaluated. According to this study, the dam is facing a serious sedimentation problem. Its dead volume is presumed to be quite full in the coming 10 years. Performing flushing operations through the three irrigation gates of the dam has received much more attention in recent years as compared to the past. The results from this study help us to determine the appropriate hydraulic conditions to decrease the negative environmental effects of Dez dam flushing operations on the downstream ecosystem.
Salt content of reclaimed water from sanitation facilities in informal settlements and management options for sustainable agricultural irrigation
Authors: Müller K. , Cornel P.
Published: March 2015

For long-term sustainable irrigation of agricultural areas, salt accumulation on the fields needs to be controlled. In areas where rainfall is high at least during some time of the year, infiltrating water is usually sufficient to leach salts from the soil. In arid and semi-arid regions, rainfall might be too scarce, and additional measures for the removal of salts from the root zone are necessary. This paper presents data on water quantities, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS) from a research project with agricultural water reuse in North Namibia and discusses options for salinity management. During planning, TDS were quantified using literature data. After implementation, quantities, EC, and TDS of tap water and reclaimed water were monitored. Mean water consumption is 61–64 L per capita equivalent and day. TDS loads are about 20–21 g/(capita equivalent × d) and thus lower than reported in literature. TDS loads in the water can be reduced by measures such as urine separation or reverse osmosis membrane filtration. However, accumulation on the field is still considerable in the long term. Salt uptake in crops is only substantial to the salt balance if TDS contents of the irrigation water are relatively low. Therefore, in the majority of cases, regular drainage and leaching of the fields are necessary. The per capita TDS loads and water quantities presented in this work are specific results collected from the facilities implemented in this project. They can serve as a basis for estimating water quantities and excreta loads for similarly managed sanitation facilities.
Innovative use of dissolved air flotation with biosorption as primary treatment to approach energy neutrality in WWTPs
Authors: Ding H.-B. , Doyle M. , Erdogan A. , Wikramanayake R. , Gallagher P.
Published: March 2015

This paper presents two types of dissolved air flotation application together with biosorption (the ‘Captivator® system’) as primary treatments. In the first instance, the Captivator® system is the sole primary treatment for a new plant installation and helps to gain 65% more biogas while requiring only 44% of aeration for COD oxidation, compared to a conventional process with a primary clarifier. In the second application, the Captivator® system is used to enhance the existing primary treatment for plant capacity expansion. With digested anaerobic sludge recycled as an additional adsorbent, the Captivator® system in the second application increases the biogas yield by 52% and only generates 59% excess sludge. Overall, the Captivator® system would help WWTPs to approach energy neutrality by diverting more organics for biogas production and reducing the energy requirements for aeration. In addition, it would help to reduce the installation footprint for primary treatment and save considerable capital cost by eliminating the sludge thickening process.
Structural effect of monomer type on properties of copolyimides and copolyimide-silica hybrid materials
Authors: Kizilkaya Canan , Bicen Merve , Karatas Sevim , Gungor Atilla
Published: March 2015

In this work, the effect of two different diamine monomers, containing
phosphine oxide, on thermal, mechanical and morphological properties of
copolyimides and their hybrid materials was investigated. Gas separation
properties of the synthesized copolyimides were also analysed. Two different
diamine monomers with phosphine oxide were bis(3-aminophenyl) phenylphosphine
oxide (BAPPO) and bis(3-aminophenoxy-4-phenyl) phenylphosphine oxide
(m-BAPPO). In the synthesis of copolyimides 3,3?-diamino-diphenyl sulfone
(DDS) was also used as the diamine, as well as
2,2?-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenyl)hexafluoropropane dianhydride (6FDA).
Copolyimide films were prepared by thermal imidization. Hybrid materials
containing 5 % SiO2 were synthesised further by sol-gel technique. The
Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Nuclear magnetic resonance
spectroscopy (NMR) confirmed the expected structure. Dynamic mechanical
analysis (DMA) demonstrated that m-BAPPO based copolyimides had lower glass
transition temperatures (Tg) than BAPPO based copolyimides. m-BAPPO
containing copolyimide without silica shifted the thermal decomposition
temperature to a higher value. The moduli and strength values of BAPPO
diamine containing copolyimide and its hybrid were higher than those of
m-BAPPO containing materials. The contact angle measurements showed the
hydrophobicity. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis exhibited the
silica particles dispersion in the copolyimides. These copolyimides may be
used in the coating industry. The CO2 permeability and the permselectivity
were the highest among the other values in this study, when m-BAPPO
containing copolyimide in the absence of silica was used. The gas
permeabilities obtained from this work were in this decreasing order: PCO2 >
PO2 > PN2.
Effects of postexercise feeding of a supplemental carbohydrate and protein bar with or without astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis to exercise-conditioned dogs
Authors: Zanghi Brian M. , Middleton Rondo P. , Reynolds Arleigh J.
Published: March 2015

OBJECTIVE To characterize the postprandial nutrient profiles of exercise-conditioned dogs fed a supplemental carbohydrate and protein bar with or without astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis immediately after exercise.

ANIMALS 34 exercise-conditioned adult Husky-Pointer dogs.

PROCEDURES The study had 2 phases. During phase 1, postprandial plasma glucose concentration was determined for dogs fed a bar containing 25% protein and 18.5% or 37.4% maltodextrin plus dextrin (rapidly digestible carbohydrate; RDC), or dry kibble (30% protein and 0% RDC) immediately after exercise. During phase 2, dogs were exercised for 3 days and fed a bar (25% protein and 37.4% RDC) with (CPA; n = 8) or without (CP; 8) astaxanthin or no bar (control; 8) immediately after exercise. Pre- and postexercise concentrations of plasma biochemical analytes and serum amino acids were determined on days 1 and 3.

RESULTS Phase 1 postexercise glucose concentration was increased when dogs were provided the 37.4% RDC bar, but not 0% or 18.5% RDC. On day 3 of phase 2, the CPA group had the highest pre-exercise triglyceride concentration and significantly less decline in postexercise glucose concentration than did the CP and control groups. Mean glucose concentration for the CP and CPA groups was significantly higher than that for the control group between 15 and 60 minutes after bar consumption. Compared to immediately after exercise, branched-chain amino acid, tryptophan, leucine, and threonine concentrations 15 minutes after exercise were significantly higher for the CP and CPA groups, but were lower for the control group.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Dogs fed a bar with 37.4% RDCs and 25% protein immediately after exercise had increased blood nutrient concentrations for glycogen and protein synthesis, compared with control dogs.
Characterization of discrete equine intestinal epithelial cell lineages
Authors: Gonzalez Liara M. , Kinnin Leslie A. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: March 2015

OBJECTIVE To characterize epithelial cells of the small intestine and colon in horses without clinical gastrointestinal abnormalities with an emphasis on the stem cell niche constituents.

SAMPLE Mucosal biopsy specimens from small and large intestines obtained from 12 horses euthanized for reasons unrelated to gastrointestinal disease or systemic disease.

PROCEDURES Intestinal biopsy specimens were collected by sharp dissection immediately following euthanasia. Specimens were prepared for immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence, and transmission electron microscopic imaging to detect and characterize each epithelial cell type. Antibodies against protein biomarkers for cellular identification were selected on the basis of expression in other mammalian species.

RESULTS Intestinal epithelial cell types were identified by means of immunostaining and morphological characterization with transmission electron microscopy. Some differences in biomarker expression and antibody cross-reactivity were identified in equine tissue, compared with other species. However, each known type of mucosal epithelial cell was identified in equine tissue.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The methodology used can enhance detection of stem cells and progenitor cells as well as postmitotic cell lineages in equine intestinal tissues. Results may have relevance to regenerative potential of intestinal mucosa and survival in horses with colic.
In vitro mechanical evaluation of equine laryngeal tie-forward constructs prepared with different suture materials and placement patterns
Authors: Santos Marcos P. , Gutierrez-Nibeyro Santiago D. , Horn Gavin P. , Hicke Joshua D. , Stewart Matthew C. , Schaeffer David J.
Published: March 2015

OBJECTIVE To compare the mechanical properties of laryngeal tie-forward (LTF) constructs prepared with different suture materials and suture placement patterns during single load to failure testing.

SAMPLE Larynges harvested from 50 horse cadavers and 5 intact horse cadavers.

PROCEDURES In vitro LTF constructs were created by a standard technique with polyester sutures, a standard technique with polyethylene sutures, a modified technique with metallic implants and polyester sutures, a modified technique with metallic implants and polyethylene sutures, or a modified tie-off technique with polyester sutures (10 of each type of construct). Mechanical properties including maximal load (N) at failure and failure mode were compared among constructs. Also, maximal loads at failure of the in vitro LTF constructs were compared with the loads exerted on the sutures tightened to achieve rostral laryngeal advancement in intact cadavers.

RESULTS Constructs prepared by a standard technique with polyethylene sutures had a significantly higher pull out strength than those prepared by a modified technique with metallic implants and either polyester or polyethylene sutures. For constructs prepared by a standard technique with polyethylene sutures or similarly placed polyester sutures, maximal load at failure did not differ but the failure mode did differ significantly. The load to failure for all in vitro constructs was higher than the maximal load measured during a range of motion test in intact horse cadavers.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that LTF procedures can be performed in live horses with any of the suture materials and techniques tested.
The Efficacy of Manual Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Desjardins-Charbonneau Ariel , Roy Jean-Sébastien , Dionne Clermont E. , Frémont Pierre , MacDermid Joy C. , Desmeules François
Published: March 2015

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of manual therapy (MT) for patients with rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy.

Background

Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disorder, for which MT is a common intervention used by physical therapists. However, evidence regarding the efficacy of MT is inconclusive.

Methods

A literature search using terms related to shoulder, RC tendinopathy, and MT was conducted in 4 databases to identify randomized controlled trials that compared MT to any other type of intervention to treat RC tendinopathy. Randomized controlled trials were assessed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Meta-analyses or qualitative syntheses of evidence were performed.

Results

Twenty-one studies were included. The majority had a high risk of bias. Only 5 studies had a score of 69% or greater, indicating a moderate to low risk of bias. A small but statistically significant overall effect for pain reduction of MT compared with a placebo or in addition to another intervention was observed (n = 406), which may or may not be clinically important, given a mean difference of 1.1 (95% confidence interval: 0.6, 1.6) on a 10-cm visual analog scale. Adding MT to an exercise program (n = 226) significantly decreased pain (mean difference, 1.0; 95% confidence interval: 0.7, 1.4), as reported on a 10-cm visual analog scale, which may or may not be clinically important. Based on qualitative analyses, it is unclear whether MT used alone or added to an exercise program improves function.

Conclusion

For patients with RC tendinopathy, based on low- to moderate-quality evidence, MT may decrease pain; however, it is unclear whether it can improve function. More methodologically sound studies are needed to make definitive conclusions.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1a–. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(5):330–350. Epub 26 Mar 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5455
Altered Gait Characteristics in Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis and Self-Reported Knee Instability
Authors: Farrokhi Shawn , O'Connell Megan , Gil Alexandra B. , Sparto Patrick J. , Fitzgerald G. Kelley
Published: March 2015

Study Design

Experimental laboratory study.

Objective

To characterize the differences in lower extremity gait biomechanics in individuals who have knee osteoarthritis (OA) with and without self-reported knee instability.

Background

Individuals with knee OA who experience episodes of knee instability often report gait difficulties that interfere with their daily lives. A better understanding of the alterations in gait biomechanics may help to mitigate symptomatic knee instability in this patient population.

Methods

Seventeen participants with knee OA and self-reported knee instability and 36 participants with knee OA and no self-reported knee instability underwent instrumented gait analysis on level ground. Knee-specific symptoms and functional limitations were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index.

Results

Knee instability was associated with greater odds of reporting moderate to severe gait-related pain (odds ratio = 6.0; 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 28.9) and moderate to severe difficulty when walking on flat surfaces (odds ratio = 10.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.7, 69.2). During early stance, the group with self-reported knee instability walked with a greater knee flexion excursion (P = .02) and a smaller lower extremity support moment (P<.01), due to reduced contributions from the hip extensors (P<.01) and ankle plantar flexors (P = .04). The group with self-reported knee instability also walked with a greater knee extensor contribution to the lower extremity support moment (P = .04) during the initial knee extension phase of gait compared to their counterparts with good knee stability.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that self-reported knee instability is associated with significant alterations in hip, knee, and ankle joint function during the stance phase of gait in individuals with knee OA. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(5):351–359. Epub 26 Mar 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5540
Descriptors Used to Define Running-Related Musculoskeletal Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yamato Tiê Parma , Saragiotto Bruno Tirotti , Hespanhol Junior Luiz Carlos , Yeung Simon S. , Lopes Alexandre Dias
Published: March 2015

Study Design

Systematic review.

Objectives

To systematically review the descriptors used to define running-related musculoskeletal injury and to analyze the implications of different definitions on the results of studies.

Background

Studies have developed their own definitions of running-related musculoskeletal injuries based on different criteria. This may affect the rates of injury, which can be overestimated or underestimated due to the lack of a standard definition.

Methods

Searches were conducted in the Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, LILACS, and SciELO databases, without limits on date of publication and language. Only articles that reported a definition of running-related injury were included. The definitions were classified according to 3 domains and subcategories: (1) presence of physical complaint (symptom, body system involved, region), (2) interruption of training or competition (primary sports involved, extent of injury, extent of limitation, interruption, period of injury), and (3) need for medical assistance. Spearman rank correlation was performed to evaluate the correlation between the completeness of definitions and the rates of injury reported in the studies.

Results

A total of 48 articles were included. Most studies described more than half of the subcategories, but with no standardization between the terms used within each category, showing that there is no consensus for a definition. The injury rates ranged between 3% and 85%, and tended to increase with less specific definitions.

Conclusion

The descriptors commonly used by researchers to define a running-related injury vary between studies and may affect the rates of injuries. The lack of a standardized definition hinders comparison between studies and rates of injuries. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(5):366–374. Epub 26 Mar 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5750
Gameplay Engagement and Learning in Game-Based Learning
Authors: Abdul Jabbar Azita Iliya , Felicia Patrick
Published: March 2015

In this review, we investigated game design features that promote engagement and learning in game-based learning (GBL) settings. The aim was to address the lack of empirical evidence on the impact of game design on learning outcomes, identify how the design of game-based activities may affect learning and engagement, and develop a set of general recommendations for GBL instructional design. The findings illustrate the impact of key gaming features in GBL at both cognitive and emotional levels. We also identified gaming trends and several key drivers of engagement created by the gaming features embedded within GBL, as well as external factors that may have influences on engagement and learning.
In Vitro Antagonism between Phytopathogenic Fungi Sclerotium rolfsii and Trichoderma Strains
Authors: Parmar H. J. , Hassan Mohamed M. , Bodar N. P. , Umrania V. V. , Patel S.V. , Lakhani H.N.
Published: March 2015

Six Trichoderma strains (collected from IARI, New Delhi and MTCC, Chandigarh) were tested for their ability to inhibit soil born pathogenof groundnut mainly Sclerotium rolfsii (causing stem rot on groundnut). Morphological observations of Trichoderma strains as well asphytopathogenic fungi S. rolfsii were made from culture grown at 28 0C for about one week on PDA media. The radial growth, fastest growthand coiling of test fungus of various Trichoderma strains on plant pathogenic fungi S. rolfsii were examined under LEICA phase contrastbinocular light microscope. In vitro percent growth inhibition of S.rolfsii by various Trichoderma strain was recorded at 5 days after inoculationat 28 oC in the 90 cm petriplates. Results obtained from the antagonism study indicated that Trichoderma viride (NBAII Tv 23) inhibited 61%growth of phytopathogenic fungi S. rolfsii followed by T. harzianum (NBAII Th1) (55% growth inhibition of pathogen). This suggested thatamong different Trichoderma strains, T. viride was the best bio-control agent to inhibit in vitro growth of phytopathogen S.rolfsii whichotherwise cause stem rot disease in groundnut.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v3i1.11845  Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 3(1): 16-19
Simultaneous Bioremediation of Phenol and Cr (VI) from Tannery Wastewater Using Bacterial Consortium
Authors: Bhattacharya Amrik , Gupta Anshu , Kaur Amarjeet , Malik Darshan
Published: March 2015

In the present study a consortium of four naturally isolated bacterial strains was evaluated as remediation tool for simultaneous removal ofphenol and Cr (VI) from tannery effluent. Application of bacterial consortia to effluent (pH 4.6) resulted in 100 and 78% removal of initial 47mg L-1 phenol and 16 mg L-1 Cr (VI), respectively at 96 h of treatment. The consortium was also active in removal of contaminants with lowerremoval rate in presence of extraneous higher concentrations of both phenol and Cr (VI). Treatment in static mode also resulted in removal ofpollutants, however with increase in agitation speed simultaneous reduction of contaminants becomes faster. Overall it can be inferred fromthe study that the above formulated bacterial consortium could effectively be used for treatment of phenol and Cr (VI) laden tannery and otherindustrial effluents.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v3i1.11889   Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 3(1): 50-55
Assessment of Genetic Variability for Agro-Morphological Important Traits in Aman Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)
Authors: Sarwar Golam , Hossain Md. Sarowar , Rashid Md.Harun -Ur- , Parveen Shahanaz
Published: March 2015

The present study was conducted in the experimental farm, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka during July 2013-December2013. The analysis of variance revealed significant deviation for all the characters studied and indicated the existence of variation among thegenotypes. The PCV values were slightly higher than the respective GCV values for all the characters except unfilled grains per panicleindicating that the characters were less influenced by the environment. Total tillers per plant, effective tillers per plant, filled grains per panicle,unfilled grains per panicle and yield per plant showed high heritability coupled with high genetic advance percentage of mean which indicatedthe preponderance of additive gene action and such characters could be improved through selection. High heritability along with low geneticadvance as percentage of mean was found for plant height, days to 50% flowering, panicle length, days to maturity and thousand grains weightwhich indicated the non additive gene action for expression of these characters. Considering the genetic parameters and other agronomicperformances, the genotypes Special from AL-29, AL-36, PP-4B(i), AL-17(iii)B, AL-17(iii), AL-17(ii)A, Special from-129, Special from17(iv), AL-44(i), AL-17, Special from AL-36(D), PP-48, IR-25B, Special from AL-33, IR-25B (Tall), P-5B (ii) might be considered betterparents for future hybridization programme.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v3i1.11896    Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 3(1): 73-79
Factors Affecting the Production of Poly Methyl Galacturonase Enzyme by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc
Authors: Chaurasia Shridha , Chaurasia Amit Kumar , Chaurasia Subha , Chaurasia Sushmita
Published: March 2015

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of different culture conditions on the production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme bySclerotium rolfsii and their optimization. Activity of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme was assayed by viscometric method. Culture conditionslike culture media, incubation period, temperature and pH greatly influenced the production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme. Out of tenculture media, only six media were proved to be producer of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme. Amongst them, Elliot’s medium was foundto be the best for the maximum production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme. Analyzing the different incubation period, the production ofpoly methyl galacturonase enzyme was found rapid (3 days incubation) in Sclerotium rolfsii. Whereas, production of poly methyl galacturonaseenzyme, gradually increased with increasing the length of incubation period up to 18 days and further increase in length of incubation up to 10days, did not show any effect on the production of poly methyl galacturonase. The nine days incubation has found to be the best incubationperiod for the maximum production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme. The Sclerotium rolfsii was also able to produce the poly methylgalacturonase enzyme at wide range of temperatures (from 15ºC to 35ºC), but 30ºC temperature was found to be the best suitable for themaximum production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme. Among the wide range of pH tested (pH 3.0 to 9.0), the pH 5.0 was proved to bethe best for the maximum production of poly methyl galacturonase enzyme in Sclerotium rolfsii when it was cultured in the same medium. Onthe basis of overall experimental results it could be concluded that Sclerotium rolfsii has potential to produce poly methyl galacturonase enzymeconstitutively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v3i1.12200     Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 3(1): 89-95
Status of Thyroid Disorders in Central Nepal: A Tertiary Care Hospital Based Study
Authors: Mahato RV , Jha B , Singh KP , Yadav BK , Shah SK , Lamsal M
Published: March 2015

Background: Nepal is a Himalayan, landlocked country surrounded by India and China. It is endemic for iodine deficiency disease. Thyroiddysfunction is major health problem among the Nepalese people. Its prevalence increases with age. Screening of thyroid disease is advised inhigh risk population. Objectives: To find out the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among subjects who attended Biochemistry Departmentof Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal. Material and Methods: This is a hospital based retrospective studyconducted in the Department of Biochemistry Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine. This study was designed toinvestigate status of thyroid dysfunction in central Nepal. A total of 5230 cases from all over Nepal were studied in a single year. Blood sampleswere collected, serum separated and thyroid hormones (fT3, fT4 and TSH) were assayed by Vitros ECIQ analyser Ortho Clinical DiagonosticsUSA. Result and discussion: Among 5230 subjects prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 29.0% with subclinical hypothyroidism17%,hypothyroidism 8%, hyperthyroidism 3%, subclinical hyperthyroidism1% and euthyroidism 71%.Higher prevalence was seen in the age group31-45. Conclusion: This study revealed that subclinical and overt hypothyroidism is preponderant followed by sub clinical hyperthyroidism.Females are more vulnerable to the thyroid dysfunction. Since it is a hospital based study, the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction may not beapplicable. So an extensive demographic survey should be done to provide accurate data of thyroid dysfunction in the general populationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v3i1.12218     Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 3(1): 119-122
Clinical Significance of ST Segment Depression in Lead aVR to Predict Culprit Artery in An Acute Inferior Wall Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Gupta Madhu , Kurmi Maheswar Prasad , Sharma Bhoj Raj , Chen Liping , Shahi Ravi , Jian Sun
Published: March 2015

Background and Aims: The main objective of this study is to analyze between left circumflex artery and right coronary artery as a presumptive predictor of a culprit artery in patients with an acute inferior wall ST elevation myocardial infarction according to ST segment change in lead aVR. Methods: This study included 145 consecutive patients who presented with an inferior wall ST elevation myocardial infarction and underwent coronary angiography. Clinical and angiographic findings were compared between patients with and without aVR depression ≥ 0. 1mV. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of ST segment depression in lead aVR to predict left circumflex artery as the culprit artery were 69% and 85%, respectively, and the positive predictive value and negative predictive value to predict left circumflex artery as the culprit arteries were 66% and 87%, respectively. Conclusion: Our study supports, the presence of ST segment depression in lead aVR is associated with good specificity and negative predictive value and modest sensitivity and positive predictive value to determine left circumflex artery as an infarct related artery in an acute ST segment elevation inferior wall myocardial infarction.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njh.v12i1.12324 Nepalese Heart Journal Vol.12(1) 2015: 5-9
A randomised controlled trial and cost-effectiveness analysis of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation against conventional artificial ventilation for adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome. The OSCAR (OSCillation in ARDS) study
Authors: Lall Ranjit , Hamilton Patrick , Young Duncan , Hulme Claire , Hall Peter , Shah Sanjoy , MacKenzie Iain , Tunnicliffe William , Rowan Kathy , Cuthbertson Brian , McCabe Chris , Lamb Sallie ,   on behalf of the OSCAR collaborators
Published: March 2015

Background

Patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) require artificial ventilation but this treatment may produce secondary lung damage. High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) may reduce this damage.

Objectives

To determine the clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness of HFOV in patients with ARDS compared with standard mechanical ventilation.

Design

A parallel, randomised, unblinded clinical trial.

Setting

UK intensive care units.

Participants

Mechanically ventilated patients with a partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood/fractional concentration of inspired oxygen (P : F) ratio of 26.7 kPa (200 mmHg) or less and an expected duration of ventilation of at least 2 days at recruitment.

Interventions

Treatment arm HFOV using a Novalung R100®ventilator (Metran Co. Ltd, Saitama, Japan) ventilator until the start of weaning.Control arm Conventional mechanical ventilation using the devices available in the participating centres.

Main outcome measures

The primary clinical outcome was all-cause mortality at 30 days after randomisation. The primary health economic outcome was the cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained.

Results

One hundred and sixty-six of 398 patients (41.7%) randomised to the HFOV group and 163 of 397 patients (41.1%) randomised to the conventional mechanical ventilation group died within 30 days of randomisation (p = 0.85), for an absolute difference of 0.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) −6.1% to 7.5%]. After adjustment for study centre, sex, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, and the initial P : F ratio, the odds ratio for survival in the conventional ventilation group was 1.03 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.40;p = 0.87 logistic regression). Survival analysis showed no difference in the probability of survival up to 12 months after randomisation. The average QALY at 1 year in the HFOV group was 0.302 compared to 0.246. This gives an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for the cost to society per QALY of £88,790 and an ICER for the cost to the NHS per QALY of £78,260.

Conclusions

The use of HFOV had no effect on 30-day mortality in adult patients undergoing mechanical ventilation for ARDS and no economic advantage. We suggest that further research into avoiding ventilator-induced lung injury should concentrate on ventilatory strategies other than HFOV.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN10416500.

Funding

This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full inHealth Technology Assessment; Vol. 19, No. 23. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
Assessment of cardiovascular behavioural risk factors in medical student
Authors: Bundela Manoj , Kumar Jayant , Soni ND , Choudhary Raghuveer , Rajnee -
Published: March 2015

It is an established fact that life-style related behavioral factors are mainly responsible for cardiovascular diseases. Doctors are playing very important role in imparting knowledge to the society as to how to stay away from diseases by adopting preventive measures. We studied the prevalence of life-style related risk behavior in medical students and to determine the effect of these factors on blood pressure. The study was conducted on 249 medical students, from which 182 were boys and 67 were girls of age group 16-29 years. In a random cross-sectional survey of medical students were interviewed for anthropometric measurements, BMI, dietary habits, physical activity and cardiovascular parameters. Cardiovascular risk factors in boys of medical college are more than girls. Out of 182 boys studied 48 [26.37%] were having their blood pressure values higher than 130/90 mm Hg. because of their faulty living/eating habits. Junk food, cola, alcohol and smoking is on rising trend with predominance of physical inactivity and overweight and as a consequence rise in the blood pressure. Dietary and exercise counseling is required for such students. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22675 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2):1-8
Patterns of medicine use in patients of common respiratory diseases treated in the Department of Pediatrics of BSMMU Hospital
Authors: Afreen Swarmita , Rahman Md Sayedur
Published: March 2015

The present study had attempted to evaluate the medicine use pattern in selected respiratory diseases treated in the Department of Pediatrics of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Hospital. An observational cross sectional study was conducted in the department of Pediatrics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) between January 2012 to June 2013. Retrospective prescribing data of sixty cases of bronchiolitis and childhood pneumonia and thirty cases of bronchial asthma was collected from the Record Room and reviewed for inclusion. Then the included treatment records were reviewed and appraised thoroughly. Information regarding patient profile, clinical diagnosis and detail information about medicine was documented in an audit form. Average number of medicine was 3.84, 4.31 and 4.47 in bronchial asthma, bronciholitis and pneumonia respectively and 4.28 for respiratory diseases. Generic prescribing was 12.46% for department of Pediatrics. Antimicrobials were used in 90.00, 96.66 and 100.00 percent cases of bronchial asthma, bronchiloitis and pneumonia respectively. In case of pneumonia, highest prescribed antimicrobial was Ceftriaxone. Intravenous and oral steroids were used in 63.33, 26.66 and 0.00 percent cases of bronchial asthma, bronchiloitis and pneumonia respectively. Wide variation was observed with medicine selection in different respiratory diseases treated in the department of Pediatrics of BSMMU. Appropriateness of prescribing cannot be ascertained by medicine use study only. It was revealed that lots of diversity was present in the treatment or selection of medicine. Detail study using newer and comprehensive method and indicators may provide better understanding about prescribing, which might be beneficial to formulate interventions. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22676 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2):9-13
Study of autopsy based suicidal hanging
Authors: Talukder Nirupama , Karim Kh A , Chowdhury Tarana , Habib Ashan , Chowdhury Azreen Momen , Perveen Kawser
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Hanging is one of the most commonly used methods for suicide in most countries. Commission of suicide by hanging is increasing in the people of Bangladesh. Suicidal hanging is detrimental to social health. Appropriate measures to prevent it are essential. Objectives: To find out the demography, cause and nature of suicidal hanging. Study design: It is a cross sectional type of descriptive study. Setting: Data was collected on predesigned proformas from postmortem reports recorded by the students of DFM and MD in Forensic Medicine at Dhaka medical college during their course. Subject: Autopsy performed on the cases of suicidal hanging at Dhaka Medical College Morgue from September, 2011 to June, 2013. Result: Out of 100 cases, eighty two (82%) were female and the most commonest (50%) age group were from 11-20 years. In 18(18%) cases Dopatta were the commonest material used for hanging. Quarrel with husband 12(12%) were the predominant cause to destroy life. In ninety (90%) cases had complete suspension where the most commonest situation of gap was on the back (38.89%). During autopsy of suicidal hanging there were injuries on the body of deceased in few cases. But these injuries did not result in death of the victim. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22677 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2): 14-17
An experimental study on effects of wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) juice on low density lipoprotien (LDL) level in blood of experimentally induced hypercholesterolaemic male long Evans rat
Authors: Afroz Rokhsana Dil , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Khan Md Ismail , Jahan Tuhin
Published: March 2015

An experimental study was done to observe the hypocholesterolaemic effect of wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) juice on experimentally induced hypercholesterolaemic rats, especially on serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) level, which was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, between July, 2009 and June, 2010. A total number of 48 healthy adult male Long Evans rats (Norwegian strain) were used for the present study. 6 rats were taken in each group of total 8 groups treated differently with 1 control group. Rats of the first 5 groups were sacrificed at 29th day and their serum total cholesterol levels were measured. The rest of the rats were sacrificed at 57th day and their serum total cholesterol levels were measured. The mean serum LDL of 10ml/kg grass juice fed normal rats was decreased by 11.64% than that of the laboratory diet fed control group (P<0.01). Serum LDL of the group of rats treated with 10ml/kg grass juice and1% cholesterol diet were decreased by 36.59% than that of the hypercholesterolaemic control group (P<0.001). Serum LDL of the hypercholesterolaemic rats treated with 10ml/kg grass juice for 28 days were decreased by 29.10%, and in hypercholesterolaemic rats treated with 20ml/kg grass juice for 28 days were decreased by 39.46% (P<0.001). Reduction of LDL as evident on hypercholesterolaemic rats treated with 20ml/kg grass juice, which was similar to hypercholesterolaemic rats treated with 0.14mg/kg Atorvastatin for 28 days. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22678 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2): 18-24
Effect of ethanolic extract of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) gel on blood glucose level of alloxan induced hyperglycaemic mice
Authors: Haque Shammin , Ara Ferdous , Iqbal Md Jalaluddin , Begum Halima , Alam Nazmun Nahar
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to show the antidiabetic effect of ethanolic extract of Aloe vera gel in alloxan induced hyperglycaemic mice. Ethanolic extract of Aloe vera gel was orally administered for four weeks at a dose of 300mg/kg body weight. Weekly estimates of fasting blood glucose level in normal non-diabetic and alloxan induced hyperglycaemic mice were assessed. Ethanolic Aloe vera gel extract revealed no blood glucose lowering action upon non-diabetic mice. But, a significant reduction in blood glucose level (p<0.001) was seen in diabetic mice, when compared with diabetic control. Similar results were found when compared with a standard antidiabetic drug, gliclazide. To conclude, as administration of ethanolic extract of Aloe vera gel significantly reduces blood glucose level in hyperglycaemic mice, it can optimistically emerge as a new hope in the management of diabetes mellitus. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22680 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2): 25-31
Comparative evaluation of platelet augmentation activity of Carica papaya leaf juice and hydrocortisone in thrombocytopenic rats
Authors: Akhter Tansena , Khan Md Ismail , Eva Eliza Omar
Published: March 2015

Aim The study aims at determining the possible effects of Carica papaya leaf juice and hydrocortisone in increasing the platelet count in thrombocytopenia similar to dengue fever. Methodology The study was carried out on 24 Long Evans Norwegian strain healthy rats to investigate the comparative platelet increasing effect of Carica papaya leaf juice and hydrocortisone in experimentally induced thrombocytopenic rats. Thrombocytopenia was induced by 3 doses of cyclophosphamide (100mg/kg body weight) given subcutaneously. The rats were divided into 4 groups comprising of six animals in each group. These groups included a normal control and a cyclophosphamide induced thrombocytopenic control and the remaining two cyclophosphamide induced thrombocytopenic groups were administered Carica papaya leaf juice and hydrocortisone respectively. The duration of study was 15 days. The clotting time was determined on the 15th day although blood samples were obtained from the rat tails at various time intervals to determine the platelet count. Collected data was tabulated and Statistical analysis was performed by using appropriate significant test. A probability value P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Result Average platelet counts of the test and control groups were (6.89)×105/?L and (6.75)×105/?L respectively before the experiment. In the experiment there was no significant difference in the platelet counts during the first 3 days in either group. However, platelet counts within the test group started to fall after Day 3 and remarkable thrombocytopenia developed after 7days and the average value was (2.68)×105/?L. From day 11 Carica papaya leaf juice and Hydrocortisone was given in two test groups following cyclophosphamide and platelet counts observed to reach a peak level at Day 14 (7.83)×105/?L in case of following Carica papaya leaf juice, and (4.05)×105/?L in case of following Hydrocortisone. The clotting time was determined on day 15 and it was found to be considerably lower (95.5 ± 2.762 sec) in case of Carica papaya leaf juice than (129±3.124 sec) in Hydrocortisone. Conclusion Carica papaya leaf juice has more platelet increasing effect than hydrocortisone and this study also reflects that Carica papaya leaf juice may be a potential candidate for further research leading to the development of a herbal therapeutic agent for thrombocytopenia manifested in diseases such as dengue. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22681 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2): 32-40
Comparison of results obtained by widal agglutination test & polymerase chain reaction among clinically suspected typhoid fever cases
Authors: Khan Shafinaz , Miah Md Ruhul Amin , Haque Shammin , Naheen Chowdhury Rafia
Published: March 2015

The diagnosis of typhoid fever currently depends on isolation of Salmonella Typhi from blood. The sensitivity of blood culture is very low due to prior antibiotic treatment which is a common practice in Bangladesh. The sensitivity of blood culture also decreases at later stage of the disease. Widal test is the most utilized test in Bangladesh next to blood culture because it is inexpensive, less invasive. But the result of the test is controversial due to false negative & false positive results in some cases.  In this study, a recently introduced polymerase chain reaction-based technique (which has 100% specificity for S. Typhi) was compared with widal test among 80 clinically suspected typhoid fever cases.  Among 80 cases, the respective figures of positivity for PCR & widal test were 70% & 43.75% respectively.  It can be concluded that PCR based technique is more sensitive & much superior to widal for diagnosis of typhoid fever. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpp.v30i2.22683 Bangladesh J Physiol Pharmacol 2014; 30(2): 46-50
Comparative analyses of stevioside between fresh leaves and in-vitro derived callus tissue from Stevia rebaudiana Bert. using HPLC
Authors: Mahmud S , Akter S , Jahan IA , Khan S , Khaleque A , Islam S
Published: March 2015

A protocol was developed to produce large amount of callus in short a period of time from leaf explants of Stevia rebaudiana Bert. The highest amount of white callus was obtained on MS medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/l 2, 4-D and 0.5 mg/l BAP after 3 weeks of inoculating leaf segments. On the other hand, 0.5 mg/l BAP and 1.0 mg/l Kn exhibits poor performance towards callus formation while after using 1.0 mg/l Kn alone did not develop any callus. In this experiment, highest amount of green callus was obtained when MS medium supplemented with 2.5 mg/l NAA and 10% coconut water was used. An improved analytical method HPLC was applied to analyze stevioside extracted from the leaf and callus of Stevia rebaudiana. The stevioside in each sample were analyzed by comparing their retention times with those of the standards. The retention time (RT) of stevioside for leaves were found 14.96 and for callus 13.81 mins. The percentage of stevioside content from leaves and callus was 12.19% and 12.62% respectively DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i4.22621 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(4), 199-204, 2014
Synthesis of biodiesel by In-situ transesterification of Karanja oil
Authors: Sastry SVAR , Murthy CVR
Published: March 2015

In the present study, biodiesel has been prepared from Karanja seeds which have been dried, dehulled and powdered. In-situ transesterification is done using the seed powder at a temperature of 50 °C. The molar ratio of methanol to oil (8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1), KOH concentration (2.0 wt %, 1.5 wt %, 1.0 wt %, 0.5 wt %, 0.25 wt %) and time (60 min, 45 min, 30 min, 15 min and 10 min) were studied. In this method glycerol (which is obtained as a by-product in conventional method of biodiesel) is adsorbed onto the oilseeds. Hence the glycerol removal step is eliminated. To better evaluate the conversion of the vegetable oils into the respective methyl esters, the transesterification reactions were monitored by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). In this paper the feasibility of biodiesel formation is tested and is hence proven that biodiesel can be formed by this process. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i4.22623 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(4), 211-218, 2014
Antifeedant activity of Vernonia oocephala against stored product pest Tribolium casteneum (Herbst)
Authors: Aliyu AB , Adeyemi MMH , Abdulkadir I , Dambatta MB , Amupitan JO , Oyewale AO
Published: March 2015

In recent years botanical antifeedants have received increasing attention in developing countries due to continued damaging of grains associated to post harvest insect pest. To develop a sustainable management of post harvest pest using local plant resources in Nigeria, Vernonia oocephala ethanol extract, chloroform and petroleum ether fractions were subjected to antifeedant activity against the stored product pest (in maize and maize flour products) Tribolium casteneum (Herbst). Wheat wafer disc technique was used in the experiment. The feeding deterrence expressed as Feeding inhibition rate [FI] (%), indicates that ethanol extract was most potent against the insect with a range of 54±1.43 to 86±1.2% and moderate activity of 50±1.11 to 70±3.12% was observed in the chloroform fraction. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, glycoside, saponins, steroids and triterpenes, cardiac glycoside and tannins in addition; sesquiterpene lactones were identified from chloroform fraction. These findings indicate the potential utility of extracts and fraction of Vernonia oocephala for developing active botanical pesticides against the pest Tribolium casteneum DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i4.22627 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(4), 243-248, 2014