bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytically Derived versus Numerically Derived Urban Transit Guidelines
Authors: van Eck Gijsbert , Pel Adam J. , van Nes Rob , van Arem Bart
Published: October 2012

Urban transit guidelines yield optimal network characteristics relating to factors such as stop density, network density, service frequency, and network hierarchy. These guidelines are typically derived from a simple analytical formulation of the bilevel network design problem. This optimization problem can be solved analytically only when simplifying assumptions are made regarding the demand distribution, local constraints, and travel behavior. The primary objective of this paper is to verify the validity of the assumptions underlying analytically derived guidelines. To this end, a new numerical optimization tool is developed and applied to the design of several detailed topological transit networks (including routes and line-specific properties) for the medium-sized Dutch city of Utrecht, Netherlands. Average network characteristics are derived, and a comparison is made between the existing analytically derived guidelines, the new numerically derived optimal characteristics, and the characteristics of the present network. Both analytically derived and numerically derived guidelines recommend lower stop densities, coarser networks, and higher frequencies than those found in real life. Furthermore, the introduction of zone lines would improve network quality, while express lines are beneficial only for large demand concentrations. Although existing (typically analytically derived) guidelines are found to be in line with numerically derived guidelines, the former are less suitable because local constraints are not accounted for, and only average network characteristics are computed. Therefore, the detailed network designs that are numerically derived in this study are easier to implement.
Bus-Holding Control Strategies
Authors: Cats Oded , Larijani Anahid Nabavi , Ólafsdóttir Ásdís , Burghout Wilco , Andréasson Ingmar J. , Koutsopoulos Haris N.
Published: October 2012

Transit operations involve several inherent sources of uncertainty, including dispatch time from the origin terminal, travel time between stops, and dwell time at stops. Bus-holding control strategies are a prominent method applied by transit operators to improve transit performance and level of service. The common practice is to regulate departures from a limited number of stops by holding buses until their scheduled departure time. An analysis of the performance of a high-frequency bus line in Stockholm, Sweden, based on automatic vehicle location data showed that this control strategy was not effective in improving service regularity along the line. The analysis also indicated that drivers adjusted their speed according to performance objectives. Implications of a control strategy that regulates departures from all stops on the basis of the headways of the preceding bus and the following bus were evaluated with BusMezzo, a transit operations simulation model. The results suggest that this strategy can improve service performance considerably from both passengers' and operator's perspectives. In addition, the strategy implies cooperative operations, as the decisions of each driver are interdependent with other drivers' decisions, and mutual corrections can be made. Difficulties in realizing the benefits of the proposed strategy in practice, such as dispatching from the origin terminal, driver scheduling, and compliance, are discussed. The implications of several practical considerations are assessed by conducting a sensitivity analysis as part of the preparations for a field experiment designed to test the proposed control strategy.
Key Variables Affecting Decisions of Bus Replacement Age and Total Costs
Authors: Boudart Jesse , Figliozzi Miguel
Published: October 2012

Recent budget and fiscal constraints make optimal fleet management more imperative than ever for transit agencies. Fleet data have consistently shown that bus operations and maintenance (O&M) costs per mile increase as buses age. From a purely economic perspective, there is a cost trade-off between the lower O&M costs of newer fleets and their higher initial capital costs. This trade-off has a significant impact on the optimal timing of purchase and replacement decisions. Realistic cost data and an optimization modeling framework were used to analyze the impact of purchase timing decisions on fleet costs per mile. The results indicate that (a) increases in diesel prices do not affect total bus fleet costs as much as increases in maintenance costs, (b) increases in maintenance costs and utilization per year reduce the optimal replacement age, (c) increases in utilization and fuel economy have a similar impact in terms of total fleet costs, and (d) bus purchase-price changes have a significant impact on the optimal replacement age. Given uncertain and hard-to-forecast market variables, a thorough sensitivity analysis is presented to ascertain the key variables that affect bus transit replacement timing.
Quantifying Reliability of Transit Service in Zurich, Switzerland
Authors: Carrasco Nelson
Published: October 2012

Transit operators aim to provide high levels of reliability because reliable services not only are more attractive for their current and potential customers, but can also reduce operating costs by making more efficient use of resources. This work addresses the issue of service reliability in a context in which high-quality transit is the norm, not the exception. An ongoing study uses automatic vehicle location (AVL) data to estimate quantitative service reliability measures of a bus line in Zurich, Switzerland. In-vehicle observations during peak periods and aggregate operational data reports complement the AVL data. Four time profiles (morning and late afternoon peaks, between peaks, and late evening) were used to characterize transit service reliability at the route and stop level. A set of conventional operator-perspective measures (travel time, speed, punctuality, and regularity) was enhanced with a customer-oriented measure (passenger waiting time) to link service reliability to passenger waiting cost. Results indicate that the best service reliability for travel time, regularity, and passenger waiting time metrics is achieved during late night services. Services between peak hours perform better in punctuality metrics.
Bus Dwell-Time Model of Main Urban Route Stops
Authors: González Emilio Moreno , Romana Manuel G. , Álvaro Oscar Martínez
Published: October 2012

This paper proposes a bus dwell-time model obtained by means of a robust statistical evaluation of boarding passenger data at stops. This model is a change from the generally accepted linear model (i.e., dwell time increases in a fixed rate of time per passenger). The statistical analysis proves the validity of the potential model. This model was derived from a large number of observations on Line 27 of the Transports Municipal Company in Madrid, Spain, and validated with observations from another line (Line 70). The data were gathered by observers who could attest to the influence of occasional incidents in the boarding process. This model can be used to evaluate line capacity more accurately. The analyzed lines were main urban routes with high passenger demand requiring the use of articulated buses. These lines were selected according to two basic criteria: routes with high demand that guarantee good results and routes with similar vehicle types with an onboard payment method. A large proportion of the fares on the two lines comes from monthly passes that require magnetic validation.
Development of Measurement System for Public Transport Performance
Authors: Orth Hermann , Weidmann Ulrich , Dorbritz Robert
Published: October 2012

Accurate measurement systems of performance are important for all businesses, including public transport. The importance of such systems will grow with the advent of liberalization in the European transportation sector (i.e., the opening of transit service provision for tendering), as service provision contracts will require agreed-on measures for performance and service. This paper describes research on developing a public transport level-of-service (LOS) standards framework for Switzerland. The standards framework is intended to reflect influences on capacity and operational quality in urban road-based transit and relies on four main measures: speeds, passenger loads, on-time performance, and headway adherence. This paper outlines the selection of specific measures for evaluating public transport LOS and the proposed framework. The framework provides a consistent method for evaluating public transport LOS on all levels of analysis, from single elements (e.g., bus stops) to networkwide analysis. The paper also describes how information from automated onboard data collection systems can be used for detailed service analysis. This calibration procedure is illustrated in an example from the Zurich public transport system. Challenges faced (especially with respect to the selection and filtering of relevant data) and future development of the approach are described. While the proposed LOS framework is being prepared for Switzerland, the experience and approach described should help others developing and improving performance management systems for public transport.
Passenger Transmission and Productiveness of Transit Lines with High Loads
Authors: Bunker Jonathan
Published: October 2012

Deterministic transit capacity analysis applies to the planning, design, and operational management of urban transit systems. Transit performance can be quantified and assessed with the use of transit capacity and productive capacity. This paper further defines important productive performance measures of an individual transit service and transit line. Transit work (measured in passengers per kilometer) captures the transit task performed over distance. Passenger transmission (in passenger kilometers per hour) captures the passenger task delivered by service at speed. Transit productiveness (in passenger kilometers per hour) captures transit work performed over time. These measures are useful to operators in understanding their services' or systems' capabilities and passenger quality of service. This paper accounts for variability in utilized demand by passengers along a line and high passenger load conditions in which passenger pass-up delay occurs. A hypothetical case study of an individual bus service's operation demonstrates the usefulness of passenger transmission in comparing existing and growth scenarios. A hypothetical case study of a bus line's operation during a peak-hour window demonstrates the theory's usefulness in examining the contribution of individual services to line productive performance. Scenarios may be assessed with the use of this theory to benchmark or compare lines, segments, and conditions or to consider improvements.
Assessing the Impact of Travel Path Choice on London's Rail Network Using an Automatic Fare Collection System
Authors: McMullan Adrian , Majumdar Arnab
Published: October 2012

London's extensive rail network can present travelers with several alternative paths to reach their destinations. Since the introduction of Oyster route validators in 2009, travelers using Oyster pay-as-you-go could be charged a lower fare between the same origin and destination if they avoided traveling through central London's Zone 1. The path choice decision involves a trade-off of the price differential between paths against other attributes of the paths, particularly journey time. Data from 150 days of these journeys were analyzed to ascertain the extent to which differences in fare and journey time affected path choice during peak and off-peak periods. The analysis found that at peak times travelers would be more likely to change their journey path to avoid Zone 1 if the fare discount for doing so were increased than if the time difference were reduced, but during off-peak hours a reduced time differential would be more effective. Other environmental factors, such as overcrowding, also played a part in the path choice decision, especially during peak hours.
How Do People Perceive Service Attributes at Transit Facilities?
Authors: Iseki Hiroyuki , Smart Michael J.
Published: October 2012

Given the well-known fact that transit users perceive out-of-vehicle travel (walking, waiting, and transferring) as more onerous than in-vehicle travel, understanding what makes travelers' perceptions of the out-of-vehicle travel experience better is important for transit planners who seek to make public transit more attractive. Original survey data collected from 2,122 transit users regarding their perceptions of various attributes of service at 36 transit stops and stations in California were used to examine which attributes are important to transit users, as well as their satisfaction levels with each attribute, and to ascertain the relative needs for improvement of these attributes. The paper also examines how different sets of attributes that determine overall satisfaction vary by transit users' trip characteristics and demographics, such as age, sex, income level, race and ethnicity, auto availability, mode of travel, and frequency of transit use. In a series of ordered logit regression analyses, satisfaction levels for safety- and access-related variables were found to be more aligned with overall user satisfaction than were information- and reliability-related attributes and amenities. A similar result was found for various subpopulations—men, those making less than $15,000 per year, frequent riders, commuters, and those with an alternative mode of travel—but not for others. The analysis indicates that while safety is certainly the number-one priority for all transit users, travelers with different backgrounds on different modes of transit have different priorities for services and attributes to improve their transit experience.
Effects of Personal Proenvironmental Attitudes on Mode Choice Behavior
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Bae Yun Kyung , Chung Jin-Hyuk
Published: October 2012

Ecofriendly transportation systems have attracted a great deal of attention in many cities. Seoul, South Korea, plans to construct a new 30-km water transit system on the Han River, which flows through the city center. Although the new system is appealing to policy makers, uncertainty for various stakeholders should be minimized in order to complete the system successfully. The objectives of this study were to understand the types of uncertainty, to identify primary factors related to uncertainty, and to provide valuable information with regard to stakeholder uncertainty to decision makers. This study focused specifically on mode choice behavior, which is a crucial component in travel demand analyses performed when a new transportation mode is introduced. The effects of proenvironmental attitudes on mode choice behavior were analyzed with stated preference survey data for a new water transit system in Seoul. A model was developed that integrates latent variables into the discrete choice model by using a full-information estimation method to ensure the inclusion of consistent and unbiased parameters. The results showed that proenvironmental attitudes directly and significantly influenced mode choice behavior. Furthermore, proenvironmental attitudes were found to positively affect other latent attitudes, such as preference for an ecofriendly transportation mode. The findings of this study will serve as a valuable source of information that can be used by policy makers and transportation planners to plan and establish sustainable transportation systems.
Public Policy Objectives and Urban Transit
Authors: Vilain Pierre B. , Cox Janet , Mantero Vicente
Published: October 2012

Transit is closely associated with public-sector involvement, including capital costs and significant subsidies of operating costs. The rationale for this involvement is justified on several grounds, including the presence of economies of scale in provision of transit service and the presence of external benefits associated with transit. In a recent study Parry and Small demonstrated that these two effects provide justification for existing subsidy levels for transit service in several cities. In the world of public transit, passenger ferry service in the New York City region is unusual: with the exception of the subsidized and publicly run Staten Island Ferry, the regional ferry system is run primarily with operating costs covered by farebox revenues. Can the arguments for public subsidies for transit extend to this system of private passenger ferries? Would economies of scale and external benefits justify an expanded and subsidized ferry system in the New York City region? These issues are explored by defining the public interest in the context of the system, discussing whether this public interest would justify a structural change in the way passenger ferries are funded in the region, and providing a timely case study, the East River Ferry service started in June 2011. This subsidized service, a ridership success, has capitalized on growing densities along the East River between Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan, New York.
New York City's East River Ferry
Authors: Camay Stephanie , Zielinski Ellen , Zaranko Adam
Published: October 2012

All along New York City's premier waterfront, changes in zoning and land use have been implemented to spur economic growth in the region and revitalize areas that have seen years of decline. As regional growth continues, it is logical to look at waterways to accommodate these new developments and move New Yorkers efficiently and sustainably. However, to enhance the economic viability of ferry systems and warrant public and private investment, these systems must be incorporated into the overall economic planning efforts for the region. This paper focuses on the New York City Economic Development Corporation's East River Ferry pilot as a case study to show the importance of integrating transit planning into the economic development process. The New York City Economic Development Corporation's strategic approach was informed by several key sources: the Comprehensive Citywide Ferry Study, lessons learned from evaluating prior services, and focus groups with residents from Brooklyn and Queens. This informed approach helped lead to a successful start to the pilot service. The collaborative process of engaging various stakeholders, initial grassroots marketing efforts, and continued outreach using traditional and social media are also essential to improving the quality of service and influencing the way people commute to work. The success of the East River Ferry service not only serves as a best practice for other geographic areas, but also lays the groundwork for additional subsidized pilot programs and services in New York City, so that a robust passenger ferry system can once again prosper in the region.
Registration of ‘Julie’ High β‐Glucan Spring Barley
Authors: Obert D. E. , Hang A. , Hu G. , Burton C. , Satterfield K. , Evans C. P. , Marshall J. M. , Jackson E. W.
Published: October 2012

The numerous health benefits associated with the consumption of barley has resulted in U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for the use of high β‐glucan barley in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. With the objective of releasing high‐value food barley to meet that health claim, ‘Julie’ (Reg. No. CV‐351, PI 665006), a two‐rowed, spring, high β‐glucan barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was developed and submitted for release in 2009 by the USDA‐ARS, Aberdeen, ID, in cooperation with the University of Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station. Julie is a selection from the cross 10/‘Azhul’//‘CDC Alamo’. 10 is a selection from composite cross XXXII made by Dr. Tom Ramage (USDA‐ARS, retired). Azhul is a six‐rowed, high β‐glucan cultivar released by the USDA‐ARS and the Arizona Agricultural Experiment Station and is the progenitor of most high β‐glucan cultivars and germplasm. Azhul was developed by the mutation of line 76‐19‐7 with diethyl sulfate. Line 76‐19‐7 has the pedigree CCXXXII/‘Arimont’//‘Westbar’. CDC Alamo, tested as HB340, has the pedigree SB85750/Azhul. Under dryland and irrigated conditions, the yield and test weight of Julie are greater than those of the currently grown high β‐glucan varieties CDC Alamo and Azhul, and Julie has a higher yield of barley β‐glucan on a per hectare basis.
Perception of Genital Cancer among Women attending the OPD of Tertiary Care Hospital in Old part of Dhaka City
Authors: Sultana Nasreen , Begum Hosne Ara , Nahar Najmun , Jesmin Asma , Ara Ismat , Mallick Hasina Emroz , Tasnim Anika
Published: October 2012

Genital cancer is increasing day by day in Bangladesh. Among those cervical cancer is the most common constituting about 22-29% throughout the country. Breast cancer is the second most common cause and it is about 13-17% of the female cancer. In Bangladesh, risk factors for cervical cancer are related to early marriage, early sexual activities, multiparity, STD,s and low socioeconomic condition. Lack of knowledge about the risk factors is also an important determinant behind the incidence of these cancers. With the objectives to assess whether they can mention the name of female genital cancer and risk factors for those cancers, this study was conducted. Methodology: This was a prospective observational study. Total 297 women attending the outpatient department of obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit of Dhaka National Medical College Hospital were interviewed with a preset questionnaire during a period of January to March 2009.Results: About 85.8% of women could mention that they had heard of genital cancers. Among those they mentioned the name of uterus (65%), cervix (5.5%) and breast (29.5%). None of them could mention ovarian or other genital cancers. Among them only 19.2% mentioned the risk factors. Risk factors they mentioned were genital infection (15.79%), OCP (21.93%), multiple sexual partners (10.53%), white discharge (21.93%), repeated MR (12.28%), many children in early age (8.77%), no breast feeding (8.77%). They heard of cancer from various sources such as media (43.14%), relative (30.20%), doctors and other service providers (18.80%), patients (5.90%) and book (1.96%).This study found that majority of women know about the genital cancer and all of them were eager to learn more about genital cancers and their prevention. Cervical and breast cancer screening program is started in Bangladesh. There is also media campaign. Awareness development, supervised screening set up and monitoring can reduce the preventable genital cancers in our country. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12183 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 4-7
Correlation between bright echogenic liver, elevated liver enzymes and liver histology
Authors: Kabir Iqbal Murshed , Alam Mahbub , Mahmuduzzaman Mohammad , Al Mamoon Abdullah , Ahmed Mostak Uddin , Safwath Syed Alamgir
Published: October 2012

A total of 30 cases having bright echogenic liver on ultrasonography and raised ALT levels without Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infection and without having history of alcohol consumption were referred to Gastroenterology department of BIRDEM Hospital and selected for liver biopsy in the study. The patients BMI and demographic profiles were recorded and necessary biochemical tests were carried out. After obtaining the histopathological reports, the correlation between different possible risk factors including biochemical findings and histological findings was sorted out. Based on BMI of Asian population, 73.4% of patients were over weight, 23.3% were obese and only 3.3% were with normal BMI. 90% patients presented with diabetes and 80% had some form of dyslipidaemia. 41% patients exhibited hypertriglycerdaemia, 21% had hypercholesterolaemia and both cholesterol and triglyceride were high in 34% patients. Histopathological study revealed that all 30 patients exhibited fatty change with macrovesicular type being the predominant. 43.3% patients had mild (<33%) steatosis and the rest 56.7% had moderate (33-66%) steatosis. In terms of staging of fibrosis in the liver, 83.3% exhibited stage-1 fibrosis and only 6.7% had stage-2 fibrosis. The rest 10% of the patients did not have any fibrosis. No correlation was established between hepatic enzyme levels (AST & ALT levels) and grading of steatosis & stage of fibrosis. Study of association between possible risk factors (Age, Sex, Diabetes Mellitus, Dyslipidaemia & BMI) and grading of steatosis and stage of fibrosis demonstrated that none of these risk factors was associated with those histological findings. Therefore it can be concluded that the patients presenting with bright echogenic liver on ultrasonography and elevated liver enzymes without having hepatitis B and hepatitis C infection and history of alcohol consumption are almost certainly to have Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) specially if they are diabetic, dyslipidaemic and overweight or obese.The level of liver enzymes and the possible risk factors like age, sex, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia and BMI do not seem to be good estimates of the severity of NAFLD. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12184 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 8-13
Sensitivity Pattern of Urinary Tract Pathogens to Anti-microbial Drugs at a Tertiary Level Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Belal , Wanaiza Prof , Akhter Mursheda , Hasan Munir , Alam Md Khorshed
Published: October 2012

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common infections experienced by human. It is also the most common cause of nosocomial infections in adults. The aim of this study was to determine the bacteriological pattern and their sensitivity to commonly used antimicrobial drugs in urinary tract infection in Bangladesh. This was a prospective study conducted in Microbiology department of Dhaka National Medical College, a tertiary level teaching hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 216 culture positive urine samples were examined. Female patient were found to be more 65.7% than male 34.3%. Maximum patients were from 20-35 yrs. age group. The most common isolate was E.coli 84.3%. These E.coli is more sensitive to Imipenem 93.98%, Amikacin 90.52%, Nitrofurantoin 78.88% Ceftazidim 78.26%, Ciprofloxacin 70.67%, Cefuroxime 65.49%,Ofloxacin 60.83%, Ceftriaxone 59.03% and Cephradin 56.96%. Resistance is more in case of amoxicillin 82.41%, Doxycycline 72.42%, Cefixime 58.70% and Nalidixic Acid 57.02%. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12186 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 18-21
Comparison of Serum Magnesium and Potassium in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Choudhury MBK , Rahman MS , Hassan MM , Begum R , Hoque N , Akhtaruzzaman M , Chowdhury AN
Published: October 2012

The comparative study has been designed to estimate serum magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and chronic ischemic heart disease (CIHD). A total 61 subjects were selected and were divided as group-I (30 subjects of AMI) and group-II (31 subjects of CIHD). Laboratory investigations were done for estimation of serum glucose and serum creatinine to exclude the diabetes mellitus and renal disease. Serum Mg was estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometer and serum K by ion selective electrode. This study showed that Mg and K level in serum is significantly lower in patients with AMI than that of CIHD subjects. Findings of the study suggested that significantly reduced serum level of Mg and K persists in AMI than those of CIHD, which may be the cause of further cardiac complications. So it may be recommended for estimation and supplementation of Mg and K in both the cases of AMI and CIHD patients for better management. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12190 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 33-36
Study on Lipid Profile in Offspring of Dyslipidemic Parents
Authors: Azad MKH , Hussain SS , Choudhury MBK , Mowsumi FR
Published: October 2012

As dyslipidemia is responsible for remarkable cause of cardiovascular disease which is considered as the number one cause of death globally, this study was undertaken to evaluate the lipid profile status of offspring of dyslipidemic parents in comparison with the offspring of normolipidemic parents. In this study, carried out on 89 subjects, the mean total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL-c) and low density lipoprotein (LDL-c) were 162.18 ± 20.97, 168.98 ± 33.51, 39.09 ± 3.62 and 90.41 ± 18.64 mg/dl respectively in adolescents with parental dyslipidemia and 158.38 ± 12.67, 157.22 ± 15.06, 40.51 ± 2.90 and 86.42 ± 12.39 mg/dl respectively in control adolescents. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) of TG and HDL-c between cases and controls where HDL-c choesterol was significantly lower in offspring of dyslipidemic parents then the offspring of normolipidemic parents. The findings of this study reflect the association of offspring dyslipidemia with parental dyslipidemia, probably due to some genetic predisposition. Offspring of dyslipidemic parents have higher levels of TC, TG, LDL-c and lower level of HDL-c compared to age and sex matched control subjects. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12191 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 37-40
Fetal Outcome of Pre-eclamptic Mothers with Hyperuricemia
Authors: Hussain SS , Choudhury MBK , Akhter J , Begum S , Mowsumi FR , Azad MKH
Published: October 2012

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is considered as a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. When a pre-eclamptic woman develops associated hyperuricemia then fetal outcome may become worse. To observe the fetal outcome of hyperuricemic pre-eclamptic pregnancy in relation to normo-uricemic pre-eclamptic pregnancy in a hospital based comparative and cross-sectional study 62 pre-eclamptic patients were selected purposively. PE was diagnosed by hypertension and proteinuria. PE patients were divided into two groups by there serum uric acid level - Hyperuricemic & Normo-uricemic. Then fetal outcome markers (Stillbirth and low birth weight fetus) of the study groups were observed. In this study significant increased number of low birth weight fetuses was observed in babies born to hyperuricemic pre-eclamptic mothers in comparison with babies born to normo-uricemic pre-eclamptic mothers. According to the observation the estimation of serum uric acid may be considered in management of pre-eclamptic mothers, especially in lowering the rate of poor fetal outcome. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12192 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 41-43
Diagnosis and Treatment planning for Implant-Supported Fixed Prosthesis
Authors: Shaheen ZA , Rehana Z
Published: October 2012

Implant prosthodontics were introduced in 1980s. Most unsuccessful cases are the result of a lack of communicating among the team members, insufficient knowledge of each members responsibilities, false assumptions etc. Understanding failures and their causes is more difficult with implant-supported prosthesis than with conventional prosthodontics. Careful diagnosis and treatment planning with a team approach prior to implant placement can help ensure a successful outcome. Diagnosis and treatment planning for use of a implant-supported fixed prosthesis are essential. The prognosis of the treatment plan should be confirmed by the implant team prior to treatment. All team members should understand the desired goals. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12194 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 47-52
The Employer-Employee and Teacher-Student Communication
Authors: Khan Md Ismail
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12165 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.1
Assessment of knowledge and skill of health care providers in management of child abuse in different level hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Rawshan Ara , Begum Kohinoor , Halim Abdul , Najneen Khadiza
Published: October 2012

Challenges to the health of our children have been changing in recent decades as we have taken control over different diseases through immunization and child health program . But newer problems are uncovered. Child Abuse and Neglect is one of them . World community has given emphasis on this very old but unnoticed problem ,this problem is received very less emphasis in South East Asia. With the objectives -to assess the knowledge and skill of working doctors and nurses of concern department in managing child abuse and to help the service providers to improve their knowledge and skill to deal with child abuse and to identify the laps and gaps in the area where abused children are dealt with, this study was carried out in two Medical College Hospitals, two District Hospitals and two Upazilla Health Complexes from November 2005 to July 2006. Selected departments for study were - Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Orthopaedics. Burn, Casualty, Psychiatry and OCC, (DMCH) in Medical College level; Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Surgery in district level and all from Upazilla level. Working doctors of all level and senior staff nurses were included in this study. Assessment of knowledge and skill was done before and after intervention by observation and face to face interview by using a pre tested prepared questionairre .Laps and gaps were identified by observation and interview. Intervention was given by a one day workshop in each level of hospital . About 155 care providers participated in pre and post intervention interview . Of them- 109 were doctor and 46 were nurses. Among them 71 (Doc. 55 + Nurse 16) from two Medical College Hospitals, 42 (Doc. 33 + Nurse 9) from two District Hospitals & 42 (Doc. 21 + Nurse 21) from 2 Upazilla Health Complexes . It was surprising that only 11 % health care provides correctly knows that who are the children , only 10 % providers knows about the different types of abuse and only 15 % providers believe that they have sufficient knowledge to manage an abused child. Knowledge level is much higher among the doctors working in teaching hospitals and poorest in UHC. Nurses are less knowledgeable than doctors . Score of nurses is more or less similar in all level of hospitals. The pre and post intervention changes were analyzed by using unpaired student's t test and p value was significant .On job training of care providers on management of abused child is very important and inclusion of this issue in medical and nursing curricula is necessary. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12166 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.2-5
Indications of Caesarean Section - Study of 100 cases in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital
Authors: Nahar Khairun
Published: October 2012

This study was a prospective descriptive one. It was done in MMCH from January 1996 to march 1996. A total of 714 deliveries occurred of which 225 deliveries by Caeserean section, incidence of LSCS was 30.36%. The commonest age group of patients being operated ranged from 20 - 30 yrs (77%). Most of the patients who had undergone LSCS were multigravida (45%). The section were due to various indications, the commonest cause in this study was previous caesarean section, foetal distress and obstructed labour. The rate of primary section was more (84%) while repeat section being 16%. The peak range of operations were done in patients with 5 feet 2 inches height. The rate of elective operation was 37% . where emergency operations were done in 63% of cases. Regarding foetal outcome. 92% survived and 8% had perinatal death. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12167 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.6-10
Transvaginal ultrasonography is the diagnostic method for evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: Haq Kulsum , Chowdhury Shabnom Ferdous , Mannan Maksuda , Ivy Rokshana , Tasnim K Shahneela
Published: October 2012

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the utility of transvaginal ultrasonography in patients presenting abnormal uterine bleeding Materials and methods: Between July 2000 to December 2000, 50 patients underwent transvaginal sonography (TVS) for abnormal uterine bleeding. All patients had transvaginal sonography before histopathology. On TVS, the sonographic appearance of the endometrium was classified according to the following parameters: normal or abnormal thickness, homogeneous or heterogeneous echogenicity, bulbous contour, discontinuous, or obscured. A comparison was performed between TVS with histopathology. Results: The most common causes for the abnormal uterine bleeding were leiomyoma in TVS (42.0%). Other causes were dysfunctional uterine bleeding (28.0%). adenomyosis (6.0%), endometrial polyp (4.0%), thin atrophic endometrium (8.0%), endometrial hyperplasia (8.0%), and endometrial carcinoma (4.0%). After histopathologic evaluation 40.0% patients had leiomyoma, 24.0% DUB, 10.0% adenomyosis, 8.0% endometrial polyp, 8.0% thin atrophic endometrium, 6.0% endometrial carcinoma and 4.0% endometrial hyperplasia. Comparing the TVS with histopathologic findings, TVS had a sensitivity of 94.3%, specificity of 80.0%. accuracy of 90.0%, PPV of 91.6% and NPV of 85.7%. Conclusion: TVS is an easy, safe, rapid and tolerable procedure. It has an excellent diagnostic accuracy in the diagnosis of uterine pathology responsible for abnormal uterine bleeding. Abbreviation: TVS transvaginal sonography; AUB abnormal uterine bleeding; DUB dysfunctional uterine bleeding, PPV positive predictive value, NPV Negative predictive value. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12168 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.11-13
Maternal and Foetal Outcome of Eclampsia in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital
Authors: Afroj Sultana
Published: October 2012

This prospective cross-sectional study is undertaken to evaluate the maternal and foetal outcome of patients admitted in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital from November 2002 to April 2003. Among 5175 obstetric patients admitted to the hospital, 212 were eclamptic, yielding an incidence of 4.1%. The antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum incidences of eclampsia were 50%, 26.5% and 23.5% respectively. Among the patients with eclampsia, 56.85% had good prognosis without any added complication and 45.85% had complications. The case fatality rate of eclampsia was 5%, which was lower than that of the previous studies. In this study out of 200 patients, foetal death was 23.98%. Changing the ante convulsant from diazepam to magnesium sulfate the incidence of death in eclampsia patients have significantly reduced. But reduction of the risk of death was difficult when patients had developed complications. Most of the patient who died was in complicated group, these complications developed as a result of a delayed treatment. Therefore, efforts should be directed at developing awareness to receive treatment at an appropriate time to reduce the mortality from eclampsia and its complications. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12169 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.14-17
Millennium Developmental Goal and Child Survival: Bangladesh perspective
Authors: Begum Tamanna
Published: October 2012

In September 2000, meeting at the United Nation (UN) Millennium summit, the world's leaders agreed to remarkable document, the Millennium Declaration1,2,3. The Millennium Developmental Goals (MDGs) agenda were adopted by the world leaders reaffirmed their share duty to "All the world's people, especially the most vulnerable and in particular, the children of the world, to whom the future belongs." They subsequently pledged to set a specific goals, the MDGs, that focus their collective efforts in the coming year as they undertake the challenges of poverty reduction and sustainable development1,4 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12170 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.18-21
Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma of Adult Hypopharynx
Authors: Hasan Mahmudul , Al Mamun Abdullah , Chowdhury ABM Mashiur Rahman , Chakraborty Manash Ranjan , Shahiduzzaman Prof , Ahmed Khabiruddin
Published: October 2012

Adult rhabdomyosarcoma in the head & neck is extremely rare & carries a poor prognosis. They should be considered as a distinct clinical entity. The authors report a case of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma in an adult female in Hypopharynx treated with chemo-radiotherapy & surgical excision., The patient responded to treatment & 7 yrs later she is still alive with no signs of metastatic disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i1.12171 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.1, December 2009 p.22-24
Effective Under graduate Medical Curriculum -A prerequisite for production of Quality Doctor
Authors: Quader Feroze
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i2.12156Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.2, December 2009 p.1
Management of congential muscular toticollis under one year of age
Authors: Matin Abdul , Islam Md Rafiqul , Roy Ranjit Ranjan , Das Bijoy Krishna , Rakshit Sudesh Chandra , Khan Rita
Published: October 2012

Background and study aim: Torticollis is the postural deformity of head and neck. Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) is a postural deformity of head and neck detected at birth or shortly after birth, primarily resulting from unilateral shortening of Sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM), In neonates and infants, patient may cure conservatively by physiotherapy but surgery is the treatment of choice for children and adolescents. Here we show our experience regarding management of congenital muscular torticollis with physiotherapy. Patients and Methods: This is an observational descriptive study. Verbal consent from parents was taken. Patients of congenital muscular torticollis with other disease or other congenital anomaly were excluded from study. Twenty patients of congenital muscular torticollis were treated. The cases were enrolled between Nov' 2005 to Oct' 2008 in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Gonosasthaya Somaj Vittik Medical College Hospital, ZH Sikder Women's Medical College Hospital, Shaheed Shurawardy Medical College Hospital. Neonates and infants were treated conservatively with physiotherapy and non responsive cases were referred for surgery. Results: Patients age range from 5 days to 1 year of which eleven were females and nine were males. Sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) was shortened in all cases (12 on right side and 8 on left side). Of 20 patients 6 neonates, rest 14 infants within 1 year age. Out of 20 neonates and infants 17 were cured conservatively with physiotherapy and rest 3 were referred for surgery. Conclusion: Most of the patient of congenital muscular torticollis can be treated conservatively during infancy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i2.12157 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.2, December 2009 p.2-5
Repair of incisional hernias - Experience with a combined fascial and prosthetic mesh repair
Authors: Hossain SM Amjad , Nahar Khairun
Published: October 2012

Repairs of incisional (ventral) hernia is one of the commonly performed operation in Bangladesh. This is a prospective study conducted in Shaheed Suhrawardy Hospital, Dhaka and a private Hospital (BDM Hospital) at Dhaka city from June 2001 to 31st May 2004 with a total period of 3 years and with total patients 43. Incisional hernias develop in upto 11% of surgical abdominal wounds with a possible recurrence, following repairs of 44%. There are several methods of repair of incisional hernias, including laparoscopic method of repair which is gaining popularity day by day. But we describe our experience with a combined fascial and prosthetic mesh repair. Of total 43 patients treated, 27 were female & 16 were male. The original operation was gynaecological in 27, bowel related surgery in 15 cases & biliary surgery in 4 patients. The incisions were midline in 31 patients, transverse in 10 patients and paramedian in 2 patients. The hernias were considered subjectively to be large in 21, medium in 16 and small in 6 patients. A parameter was compiled for each patient, noting intraoperative and post postoperative complications , post operative hospital stay and analgesic requirements. Post operative complications included seroma formation in 6 patients. One patient developed wound infection and require removal of the mesh 10 Control infection. Post operative hospital stay ranged from 2 to 17 days. Of total 43 patients 36 were available for follow- up. Seven drops from follow up. Follow up was from 6 months to 36 months. One (2.5%) of these patients complained of persistent lump and one reported persistent pain. Hernia recurrence in one patient (2.5%) , 35 was found to have no recurrence. We advocate these technique because it is applicable to all hernias,most of the mesh is behind the rectus sheath and has two points of fixation, it is relatively pain free allowing early mobilization has a less complication rate and low recurrence rate.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i2.12158 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.2, December 2009 p.6-9
Outcome of Teenage Pregnancy Associated with Medical Conditions
Authors: Sultana Nigar , Huq Syed Rezaul , Parvin Tabassum , Hussain M Anwar , Rahaman Md Abedur
Published: October 2012

Objective: This study was carried out to evaluate the Maternal and fetal outcome of teenage Pregnancy with different medical conditions during Pregnancy in the selected high risk hospital population of Bangladesh. Methods: This was a cross sectional study. The study was done on 50 (fifty) teenage pregnant adolescent admitted in the Dhaka medical college Hospital and Bangabandhu sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital during the study period July 2004 to June 2005. Samples were selected randomly from the admitted patients. Results: Seventy five percent of the mother had complication during delivery, of them 21.42% had PPH, 14.28% had inadequate lactation, 10.71% had post partum eclampsia, another 10.71% had wound dehiscence, 7.14% had post spinal headache. Eighty four percent of the babies were alive, of them Forty percent required resuscitation. Ten percent were dead and 6% were still born. Fourty eight percent of the new born had birth weight less than 2.5 kg, 32% had more than 2.5kg. APGAR score at one minute varied between 5-7 in 75% of cases and was 8-9 in 22.5%. Only 2% has <5. APGAR score at five minutes varied between 8-9 in 92.5% of cases. 40% of the babies developed jaundice, 30% babies were birth asphyxiated, IUGR 8%, prematurely 6%, congenital anomalies 4%.Conclusion: Outcome of teenage pregnancy with medical conditions is poor. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jssmc.v1i2.12159 Journal of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Vol.1, No.2, December 2009 p.10-13