bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Um mundo feito de papel: sofrimento e estetização da vida (os diários de Carolina Maria de Jesus)
Authors: Gonçalves Marco Antonio
Published: November 2014

Este artigo revisita os escritos de Carolina Maria de Jesus, em particular o livro Quarto de despejo, com a intenção de pensar sua escrita (e seu próprio ato de escrever) como forma de elaboração de sua condição social de existência. Sua escrita, enquanto automodelagem de sua "pessoa" é construída através de processos de percepção de seu sofrimento social e de instauração de uma aguda consciência de sua corporalidade. Explorando o conceito de sofrimento social, enquanto processo de experiência e cognição, analisa-se o lugar de sua escrita, dolorosamente crítica, na forma como apreende o mundo, como se revela a si mesma e exprime sua revolta ao tomar consciência de sua condição social. Delineia, também, a "corporificação de seu sofrimento social" a partir do conceito "cosmografia da fome", que ganha na escrita de Carolina uma complexa elaboração de cartografias que fazem coincidir corpo e espaço, territórios urbanos de deambulação e órgãos corporais. Seu sofrimento social se estrutura através da escrita como possibilidade de agência, de revolta e revide que promove os processos de transformação de sua condição social de existência.
El sufrimiento colectivo de una ciudad minera en declinación: El caso de Lota, Chile
Authors: Reyes Herrera Sonia E. , Rodríguez Torrent Juan Carlos , Medina Hernández Patricio
Published: November 2014

Lota, la primera ciudad industrial de Chile, monoproductora e identificada por 150 años con el carbón, se encuentra en un proceso irreversible de declinación simbólica y material. Marcada su historia por luchas contra la pobreza, la injusticia social y la demanda por derechos laborales, impulsadas por los sindicatos y el Partido Comunista, que estructuraron sus utopías sociales y urbanas, hoy se encuentra sumida en la derrota y el sufrimiento producido por una acumulación de eventos adversos en los últimos 40 años. La dictadura militar, el fin de los socialismos reales, la devaluación de los partidos políticos y el sindicalismo y el cierre de la mina, ponen fin a una cultura laboral y a un proyecto de ciudad que obliga a los extrabajadores y a sus habitantes a un proceso de reescritura biográfica que modifica su relación con el pasado y el futuro. En este artículo se realiza un análisis de las transformaciones productivas, sociales, políticas, culturales y arquitectónicas que muestran la emoción de una ciudad y la vida colectiva sumida en el dolor. Metodológicamente se desarrolla en base a un trabajo etnográfico sustentado en entrevistas a exmineros, mujeres, funcionarios públicos y revisión de fuentes de información secundaria, provenientes de registros históricos y literarios.
Sirtuin1 Maintains Actin Cytoskeleton by Deacetylation of Cortactin in Injured Podocytes
Authors: Motonishi Shuta , Nangaku Masaomi , Wada Takehiko , Ishimoto Yu , Ohse Takamoto , Matsusaka Taiji , Kubota Naoto , Shimizu Akira , Kadowaki Takashi , Tobe Kazuyuki , Inagi Reiko
Published: November 2014

Recent studies have highlighted the renoprotective effect of sirtuin1 (SIRT1), a deacetylase that contributes to cellular regulation. However, the pathophysiologic role of SIRT1 in podocytes remains unclear. Here, we investigated the function of SIRT1 in podocytes. We first established podocyte-specific Sirt1 knockout (SIRT1pod−/−) mice. We then induced glomerular disease by nephrotoxic serum injection. The increase in urinary albumin excretion and BUN and the severity of glomerular injury were all significantly greater in SIRT1pod−/− mice than in wild-type mice. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence showed a significant decrease in podocyte-specific proteins in SIRT1pod−/− mice, and electron microscopy showed marked exacerbation of podocyte injury, including actin cytoskeleton derangement in SIRT1pod−/− mice compared with wild-type mice. Protamine sulfate-induced podocyte injury was also exacerbated by podocyte-specific SIRT1 deficiency. In vitro, actin cytoskeleton derangement in H2O2-treated podocytes became prominent when the cells were pretreated with SIRT1 inhibitors. Conversely, this H2O2-induced derangement was ameliorated by SIRT1 activation. Furthermore, SIRT1 activation deacetylated the actin-binding and -polymerizing protein cortactin in the nucleus and facilitated deacetylated cortactin localization in the cytoplasm. Cortactin knockdown or inhibition of the nuclear export of cortactin induced actin cytoskeleton derangement and dissociation of cortactin from F-actin, suggesting the necessity of cytoplasmic cortactin for maintenance of the actin cytoskeleton. Taken together, these findings indicate that SIRT1 protects podocytes and prevents glomerular injury by deacetylating cortactin and thereby, maintaining actin cytoskeleton integrity.
Doutrinas, escolas e novas razões de entendimentos na Ciência Contábil
Authors: Sá Antônio Lopes de
Published: November 2014

Longo foi o curso do pensamento de intelectuais para conduzir a Contabilidade a uma condição superior do conhecimento humano. Hoje, como ciência, rica em doutrinas, segue o saber contábil o seu destino, valorizado pelos esforços de grandes escolas do pensamento científico, dentre as quais se destaca o Neopatrimonialismo.
Grazing in an Uncertain Environment: Modeling the Trade‐Off between Production and Robustness
Authors: Sabatier R. , Oates L. G. , Brink G. E. , Bleier J. , Jackson R. D.
Published: December 2014

Concern with the environmental, economic, and social impacts of the post‐WWII model of agricultural intensification has led to renewed interest in grazing as a feeding strategy for temperate livestock farming systems. Putting grass back at the core of livestock feeding not only requires technical knowledge but also reconsideration of the importance of uncertainty in management choices. We developed a simple stochastic model of grassland dynamics to quantify both robustness and production of alternative management strategies under continuous grazing and management‐intensive rotational grazing. The model was calibrated on data from cool‐season grasslands in south‐central Wisconsin. We defined robustness as the probability that a given management strategy did not lead to overgrazing, while the production indicator was number of livestock unit days per hectare enabled by the grazing strategy. Robustness was strongly dependent on the timing and intensity of grazing, and the highest levels of production were incompatible with a high value of robustness. Beyond a certain threshold of production, we observed a trade‐off between robustness and production, where robustness decreased regularly until the maximum possible production. This trade‐off did not significantly differ between continuous grazing and rotational grazing. We identified key management practices that led to both high production and high robustness, but to attain these results will require not only acquisition of new technical knowledge but also a change in the way the system is managed: from controlling environmental variability with external inputs to understanding and managing stochastic systems in a way that reduces negative externalities while increasing production efficiencies.
Comparison between laser application and atmospheric air plasma treatment on nanocellulose coating of polyester and nylon 66 fabrics
Authors: Nourbakhsh Shirin
Published: November 2014

Synthetic fibers have high hydrophobicity and poor adhesion properties. There are different methods for surface treatment of fibers to improve adhesion properties. In this research, polyester and nylon fabrics were treated by different conditions of surface modification; plasma and laser treatment. Cellulose nano crystal was immobilized on the surface of untreated and treated fabrics by poly ethylene glycol. Surface morphology, FTIR/ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared), wettability and dyeability of nanocellulose-coated and noncoated samples were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs showed that nanocellulose-treatment on plasma and laser treated polyester and nylon fabrics coated the surface of treated fibers by a layer. This cellulosic layer covered the surface of the fibers as the grooves in ripplelike structure of laser treated fibers were disappeared by this coating. FTIR/ATR analysis of polyester and nylon 66 fibers showed higher amount of coating of nanocellulose on laser treated fabrics as the results showed decreasing in intensity of functional groups related to polyester and nylon on the surface. These results are in agreement with dyeing results of nano cellulose coated and noncoated fabrics which the nanocellulose-coating on laser treated polyester and nylon 66 fabrics showed higher amount of dye absorption.
Fluoxetine effect on gestation and fetal development
Authors: Ösz Bianca Eugenia , Vari C. E. , Dogaru Maria
Published: November 2014

The prenatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is very controversial. There is no conclusive evidence for increased risk of malformations after SSRI use in pregnancy. The aim of the study was to determine how fluoxetine is affecting gestation and fetal development in rats. Twenty sexually mature female Wistar rats weighting between 250-260 g received 20 mg/kg body weight fluoxetine from the first day of gestation and during the entire gestation period.The drug was administered by oral route. Healthy, primipareus animals were selected along with 20 female Wistar rats, as control group. Mature males were caged with virgin females for an entire week. Rat’s behaviour during gestation, after birth and rats body weight was examined. The number of healthy pups was also noted. The females not giving birth after 21 days to any pup were anesthetized (halothane through gas scavenging apparatus untilled death) and the gravid uterus were dissected out and examined. Compared to the controlled group, in which weight gain was more significant, the animals from the experimental group had a slight increase in body weight. The weight gain normally induced by gestation, is less significant in fluoxetine treated rats due to the increase serotonin levels in the brain. The uteri examination of pregnant rats showed an increase in the number of dead and resorbed rat embryos. Preclinical studies suggest that the inclusion of fluoxetine in pregnancy category C is justified and the appropriateness of its administration in pregnancy is still an unresolved issue.
Effect of Non-Genetic Factors on Standard Lactation Milk Performance Traits in Simmental Cows
Authors: Milun Petrović D. , Bogdanović Vladan , Milan Petrović M. , Bogosavljević-Bošković Snežana , Đoković Radojica , Đedović Radica , Rakonjac Simeon
Published: November 2014

The effect of systematic and continuous environmental factors on milk performance traits over standard lactations in 2805 Simmental cows was evaluated using the general linear model. The systematic factors included the effect of farm or breeding area, calving season, year of birth, season of birth, lactation group and their interactions. The continuous factor analysed was the effect of age at first conception. The effect of farm, lactation group and calving season on standard lactation milk performance was found to be highly significant (P<0.01), excepting the effect of calving season on milk fat percent in standard lactations which showed statistical significance (P<0.05). The interactions between year and season of birth, farm and calving season, and farm and lactation group had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on all performance traits studied. Age at first conception, as a continuous factor, had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on milk yield and milk fat percent, and a non-significant effect on milk fat yield. The model used to correct the performance traits over standard lactations for the effect of systematic factors was highly significant (P<0.01). The variance of the model accounted for 20.06 and 37.31% of the total variance of milk fat yield and milk fat percent, respectively. The resulting coefficients of determination (R2) ranged from 0.20 for milk fat yield to 0.37 for milk fat percent.
Characteristics of Organic Livestock Farms in Poland in 2009–2011
Authors: Sosnówka-Czajka Ewa , Skomorucha Iwona , Muchacka Renata
Published: November 2014

This study was designed to provide a thorough characterization of individual organic farms with certified animal production in Poland in the years 2009-2011. The study consisted of a direct survey using a standard questionnaire. Monitoring of organic farms showed that organic animal production in Poland is still developing. The most common type is backyard subsistence farming for own consumption and possibly for direct sales at local markets. Organic farms with an area exceeding 20 ha tend to orient themselves towards specialized production of cattle, sheep or pigs, while medium-sized organic farms specialize in pork and organic lamb production. However, the observed specialization in livestock production on organic farms is still relatively small.
Influence of Ascites Syndrome on Growth Pattern of Chickens Reared at Normal or Cold Ambient Temperature
Authors: Hasanpur Karim , Nassiry Mohammadreza , Salekdeh Ghasem Hosseini , Torshizi Rasul Vaez , Pakdel Abbas , Kermanshahi Hasan
Published: November 2014

Ascites syndrome (AS) is a metabolic disorder usually seen in highly improved meat-type broiler strains. This syndrome causes major financial losses to the poultry industry. Previously it was believed that AS incidence was a side effect of intense selection for rapid growth rate (GR) or higher market weight. If this belief is the case, selection for further increase in GR will not be rational. However, it was later understood that there were significant genetic variations for both GR and susceptibility/resistance to AS; thus selective breeding could be helpful in diminishing the incidence of AS while improving GR. Furthermore, it was hypothesized that genes controlling the GR were not genetically dependent on those genes controlling susceptibility to AS. In the current research, we aimed to study the association of GR traits with AS% in a pure sire line. A total of 1458 1-day-old chicks from 67 sire families were used. The results revealed that ascitic chicks were not significantly superior in early GR traits (i.e. before day 28) than the healthy ones. At later ages, probably due to the commencement of the syndrome, the ascitic chicks were significantly lighter in body weight (BW) than their healthy counterparts. The lack of significant genetic correlations between the GR traits and AS% indicated that there was considerable scope for simultaneous selection of birds for increased BW and GR while controlling susceptibility to AS.
Light Conversion and Scattering in UV Protective Textiles
Authors: Grancarić Ana Marija , Tarbuk Anita , Botteri Lea
Published: November 2014

The primary cause of skin cancer is believed to be a long exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UV-R) crossed with the amount of skin pigmentation in the population. It is believed that in childhood and adolescence 80% of UV-R gets absorbed, whilst in the remaining 20% gets absorbed later in the lifetime. This suggests that proper and early photoprotection may reduce the risk of subsequent occurrence of skin cancer. Textile and clothing are the most suitable interface between environment and human body. It can show UV protection, but in most cases it does not provide full sun screening properties. UV protection ability highly depends on large number of factors such as type of fibre, fabric surface and construction, type and concentration of dyestuff, fluorescent whitening agent (FWA), UV-B protective agents, as well as nanoparticles, if applied. Based on electronically excited state by energy of UV-R (usually 340-370 nm), the molecules of FWAs show the phenomenon of fluorescence giving to white textiles high whiteness of outstanding brightness by reemitting the energy at the blue region (typically 420-470 nm) of the spectrum. By absorbing UV-A radiation, optical brightened fabrics transform this radiation into blue fluorescence, which leads to better UV protection. Natural zeolites are rock-forming, microporous silicate minerals. Applied as nanoparticles to textile surface, it scatters the UV-R resulting in lower UV-A and UV-B transmission. If applied with other UV absorbing agents, e.g. FWAs, synergistic effect occurs. Silicones are inert, synthetic compounds with a variety of forms and uses. It provides a unique soft touch, is very resistant to washing and improves the property of fabric to protect against UV radiation. Therefore, the UV protective properties of cotton fabric achieved by light conversion and scattering was researched in this paper. For that purpose, the stilbene-derived FWAs were applied on cotton fabric in wide concentration range without/with the addition of natural zeolite or silicone- polydimethylsiloxane. UV protection was determined in vitro through ultraviolet protection factor. Additionally, the influence to fabric whiteness and hand was researched
Neonatal Anthropometry: Measurement of the Abdominal Circumference in Newborns
Authors: Meldere Ilze , Urtans Valdis , Kruze Dina , Petersons Aigars , Abola Zane
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Neonatal anthropometric measurements, including body weight, length, head circumference and abdominal circumference are routine procedures in obstetric and neonatal departments. Standard values for neonatal population are established for body weight, length, head and thoracic circumference, however there are no reference values for neonatal abdominal circumference, futhermore, this measurement currently is not a routine procedure in every obstetric and neonatal unit. In order to evaluate the increase of abdominal circumference in newborns with a disease of organs of abdominal cavity including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), the abdominal girth of newborns soon after birth without pathology in the abdominal cavity should be ascertained. Thereby, the average value of the abdominal circumference of newborns in Latvia could be obtained.

Aim of the Study. The aim of our study is to measure the abdominal circumference in premature and term-born neonates soon after birth and to define the correlation between abdominal circuit and birth weight.

Materials and Methods. The measurement of waist girth was carried out in 460 neonates within 30 minutes after birth. Newborns were divided into 4 groups according to birth weight: extremely low birth weight (ELBW) - under 1000 g, very low birth weight (VLBW) - 1001 g - 1500 g, low birth weight (LBW) - 1501 g - 2500 g and term neonates with 2501 g - 4590 g birth weight. The abdominal circumference was measured in 2 obstetric units in accordance with the previously established measurement methods.

Results. There was no statistical difference between abdominal circumference in boys and girls in ELBW, VLBW and LBW groups (p>0.05). Mean abdominal circumference in ELBW group was 18,70 cm (SD=0,84) in boys and 18,67 cm (SD=1,40) in girls, VLBW group was 22,20 cm (SD=1,42) and 21,94 cm (SD=1,29) in boys and girls, respectively. Mean abdominal circumference in LBW group was 24.47 cm (SD=2.36) in boys, and 24.92 cm (SD=2.23) in girls. Independent Samples Test: Mean abdominal circumference was statistically different in boys and girls in 2500g -4590g birth weight group with median value 30.56 cm in boys, and 33.23 cm in girls (p<0,05). Mean value in girls was 3.33 cm higher than in boys. Dependent Variable linear regression: Specific formula for estimation of normal abdominal circumference was developed as a result of this study: y=0.0044x+16.38 (y - abdominal circumference, cm; x - body weight, grams; 0.0044 - regression coefficient; 16.38 - regression constant).

Conclusions. The difference of mean abdominal circumference was not statistically significant in boys and girls in ELBW, VLBW and LBW groups, however, the difference was significant in the term-born neonates group. As a result of this study reference values and specific formula were established, which allows determination of normal abdominal circumference in neonates depending on birth weight.
Anaesthesia Management with Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrests During Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy
Authors: Leibuss Roberts , Kalejs Martins , Ozolina Agnese , Skride Andris , Stradins Peteris , Strike Eva , Lacis Romans
Published: November 2014

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) occurs in a minority of patients after acute embolism and belongs to Orphan diseases. There is no specific medical treatment currently approved. Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTEAE) remains as the main and curative treatment for the CTEPH. Case presentation in a patient with acquired CTEPH is a rare condition that can be treated successfully with PTEAE under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with deep hypothermic circulatory arrests.
The impact of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) on the development of phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: Grobelak Anna , Napora Anna , Kacprzak Małgorzata
Published: November 2014

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate impact of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) on the development of phytopathogenic fungi and correlate it with a potential effects on the growth of plants under unfavorable conditions, in order to improve the efficiency of a phytoremediation process. The conducted research focused on the antifungal properties of PGPB. In this study, 51 isolates of bacteria were obtained after diversified disinfection time from plants growing on soil after sewage sludge amendment. The results revealed that some isolated bacteria, mainly endophytic ones, inhibited the development of Fusarium oxysporum, F. culmorum and Alternaria alternata.
The biotechnology of higher fungi - current state and perspectives
Authors: Turło Jadwiga
Published: November 2014

This review article concisely describes methodology of biotechnological processes with the use of cultures of higher fungi, their application in bioremediation and to obtain biologically active preparations. Advantages and disadvantages of biotechnological methods used to cultivate mushrooms are analyzed. This paper contains overview of higher fungi species most commonly used in biotechnological processes, of cultivation methods applied to produce fungal biomass, of enzymes and bioactive metabolites and of the strategies for submerged cultivation of the mycelial cultures. The problems of optimization of strains and biotechnological processes are briefly discussed.
Fungal genomes tell a story of ecological adaptations
Authors: Muszewska Anna
Published: November 2014

One genome enables a fungus to have various lifestyles and strategies depending on environmental conditions and in the presence of specific counterparts. The nature of their interactions with other living and abiotic elements is a consequence of their osmotrophism. The ability to degrade complex compounds and especially plant biomass makes them a key component of the global carbon circulation cycle. Since the first fungal genomic sequence was published in 1996 mycology has benefited from the technolgical progress. The available data create an unprecedented opportunity to perform massive comparative studies with complex study design variants targeted at all cellular processes.
Mahovna Flora Fitogeografskega Podobmočja Karavanke (Slovenija)
Authors: Martinčič Andrej
Published: November 2014

In this paper author gives the results of his own bryological investigations of the phytogeographical subregion Karavanke (part of the Alpine phytogeographical region) as well as the previous reports from literature and unpublished data from LJU. In total 453 species are reported from the investigated subregion, 97 liverworts and 356 mosses. Among them 12 are reported for the first time for Slovenia (Cephalozia ambigua, Lophozia ascendens, Didymodon asperifolius, Dicranella crispa, Brachytheciastrum olympicum, Schistidium crassipilum, S. dupretii, S. elegantulum subsp. elegantulum, S. lancifolium, S. papillosum, S. robustum, S. trichodon var. trichodon), 94 species are reported for the first time for the Karavanke. 40 species are included in national Red List and 11 species in the Red Data Book of European Bryophytes (ECCB 1995).
Contributions to the empirical study of immediacy in the pedagogical relationship through self-narratives
Authors: Manarte Joana , Lopes Amélia , Pereira Fátima
Published: November 2014

Pedagogical communication is an action wherein the body, being a part of a relational whole, performs a fundamental role. A bibliographical survey of studies on the interaction between teacher and student confirms that there is a strong correlation between the teacher’s nonverbal behavior and the students’ level of motivation and proficiency. Nonverbal communication constitutes an indispensable vehicle for the teacher’s affections, intentions and attitudes towards her students, and vice-versa. Nonverbal elements are potential promoters of immediacy, i.e., the sensation of proximity between interacting agents, which is created by the communicative behaviors. The goal of this paper is to explore some relevant aspects for the empirical study of immediacy in a pedagogical environment. It starts off from the researcher’s self-narrative based upon reports of her pedagogical experiences and proceeds with an elaboration of communicative immediacy and its impact upon the pedagogical relationship and the narrator herself.
Translators and Interpreters Certification in Australia, Canada, the Usа and Ukraine: Comparative Analysis
Authors: Skyba Kateryna
Published: November 2014

The article presents an overview of the certification process by which potential translators and interpreters demonstrate minimum standards of performance to warrant official or professional recognition of their ability to translate or interpret and to practice professionally in Australia, Canada, the USA and Ukraine. The aim of the study is to research and to compare the certification procedures of translators and interpreters in Australia, Canada, the USA and Ukraine; to outline possible avenues of creating a certification system network in Ukraine. It has been revealed that there is great variation in minimum requirements for practice, availability of training facilities and formal bodies that certify practitioners and that monitor and advance specialists’ practices in the countries. Certification can be awarded by governmental or non-governmental organizations or associations of professionals in the field of translation/interpretation. Testing has been acknowledged as the usual avenue for candidates to gain certification. There are less popular grounds to get certification such as: completed training, presentation of previous relevant experience, and/or recommendations from practicing professionals or service-user. The comparative analysis has revealed such elements of the certification procedures and national conventions in the researched countries that may form a basis for Ukrainian translators/interpreters certifying system and make it a part of a cross-national one.
Forming the Future Lawyers’ Communicative Competence: The Experience of Higher Education in Ukraine and Germany
Authors: Nasilenko Lyudmyla
Published: November 2014

In the article the state of forming of communicative competence of future lawyers in higher education of Ukraine and Germany is analyzed. There is made the comparative description of preparation of the students of law faculty with an accent on forming of communicative competence on the example of the University of modern knowledge (Ukraine) and Frankfort university is named after Goethe (Germany).

It is drawn the conclusion, that the structure of professional preparation of future lawyers is folded educational and cognitive, research constituents, and also productive practice. A main place is taken to conception of communicative preparation of the future lawyers, the essence of it consists in integration of the special courses of the special and professional disciplines, in continuous perfection of skills of the verbal and writing broadcasting, receptions of analytical mental work, that need knowledge. It is also outlined the aim of productive practice of future lawyers in Ukraine that begins from the second course: the forming of professional abilities and skills of acceptance of independent decisions; the education of necessity systematic to proceed the knowledge, to promote a legal culture and professional legal consciousness; to teach to apply knowledge in practical activity. In Germany the practice for future lawyers begins from the first course and lasts two years in legal establishments (from civil cases, court from criminal cases or office of public prosecutor, administrative and managerial establishments, advocacy). The sign line of studies is an active collaboration with the faculties of law of the foreign states. All these factors assist the forming of communicative competence of lawyers.
An Observational Study on 100 Patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Khanam Khaleda , Parvin Mimi
Published: November 2014

Background: Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have chronic anovulation and androgen excess not attributable to another cause. The fundamental pathophysiologic defect is unknown. Defects in LH secretion, LH/FSH ratio, amplitude of LH pulsations have been described; but the prevalence of these defects is not still clearly determined. Objective: To review the variable clinical presentations of polycystic ovarian syndrome. Materials and Methods: This observational study was carried out in Combined Military Hospitals of Jessore, Rangpur and Ghatail during November 2008 to June 2013. One hundred patients attending Gynaecology Outpatient Department (GOPD) having at least two of the following criteria hyperandrogenism, chronic oligo- or anovulation and ultrasonographic findings were selected. In all selected women LH and FSH serum levels were determined and LH/FSH ratios were calculated. Body mass index (BMI) was measured and was scored to classify their state of obesity. The collected data were compiled and arranged in tables and were subjected to analysis. Results: Most of the patients (92%) were 2030 years old. Chief complaint of the patients was infertility, either primary (72%) or secondary (28%). Eighty percent women had menstrual irregularities, 30% were hirsute, 71% cases were overweight and 17% were obese. On pelvic ultrasonogram polycystic ovaries were found in 20% cases and 80% had normal ovaries. Thirty percent patients had LH/FSH ratio between 2.12.9, 32% had >3 and it was found normal in 38% of cases. Conclusion: PCOS cannot be diagnosed by a single clinical or laboratory finding. The diagnostic approach should be based largely on history and physical examination. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v4i3.20944 J Enam Med Col 2014; 4(3): 156-160
Effect of Oyster mushroom in Paracetamol Induced Toxicity of Liver in Wistar albino Rats
Authors: Sumy Afroza Khanam , Jahan Nasim , Sultana Nayma , Sikder Abdul Mannan
Published: November 2014

Backgroud: Liver is an important metabolic organ. It has wide range of functions including detoxification, storage of glycogen, vitamins A, D and B12, production of several coagulation factors, growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), angiotensinogen, and biochemicals necessary for digestion (bile). Its damage occurs due to its multidimensional functions, various xenobiotics and oxidative stress leading to distortion of all of its functions. Oyster mushroom which is excellently edible and nutritious has got free radical scavenging activity, and so may be considered as a hepatoprotective agent. Objective: To observe the hepatoprotective effect of Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida) against paracetamol induced liver damage in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, Sir Salimullah Medical College (SSMC), Dhaka from 1st July 2009 to 30th June 2010. Thirty four Wistar albino rats, aged 90 to 120 days, weighing between 150 to 210 grams were used for the study. After acclimatization for 14 days, they were divided into two groups  control group (Group A) and experimental group (Group B, mushroom-pretreated and paracetamol-treated group). Control group was again subdivided into Group A1 (baseline control group) and Group A2 (paracetamol-treated control group). Animals of all groups received basal diet for 30 consecutive days. In addition, Group A1 rats received propylene glycol (2 mL/kg body weight orally) only on 30th day, Group A2 rats received single dose of paracetamol suspension (750 mg/kg body weight orally) only on 30th day and Group B rats received mushroom extract (200 mg/kg body weight orally) for 30 consecutive days and paracetamol suspension (750 mg/kg body weight orally) only on 30th day. All the animals were sacrificed on 31st day. Then liver specimens were collected. Histology of liver was done by using standard laboratory procedure. Statistical analysis was done by one way ANOVA test by using SPSS version 15.0. Result: In this study, histological examination of liver reveals abnormal histological findings in 100% of rats in paracetamol-treated group (Group A2), almost normal structure in 80% of rats and mild histological changes in 20% rats in mushroom-pretreated and paracetamol-treated group (Group B). Conclusion: The present study reveals the hepatoprotective effect of Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus florida) against paracetamol induced liver damage in Wistar albino rats. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v4i3.20945 J Enam Med Col 2014; 4(3): 161-167
Association of Dermatological Conditions of External Ear with the Use of Cotton Buds
Authors: Ahmed Salahuddin , Zaheer Syed Atif Imran , Shabbir Syed Muhammad Asad , Rao Sibghatullah , Islam Tauhidul , Ahmed Bashir
Published: November 2014

Background: The habit of cleaning the external auditory canal with cotton buds is a common practice of the masses. It has strong association with neurodermatitis and contact dermatitis of the external ear. It is also associated with acute otitis externa, rupture of tympanic membrane causing bleeding and temporary hearing loss in some cases. In many cases the injury will heal but damage to minuscule bones deep inside the ear can cause permanent deafness. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the association of dermatological condition of external ear with the use of cotton buds. Materials and Methods: This case control study was done from January to October 2012 in the Ear Nose Throat Department of Pakistan Level III Hospital, Darfur, Sudan. Sixty seven patients with dermatological diseases of external ear were cases and 83 subjects without dermatological diseases of external ear were selected as controls. Results: Among 67 cases, 58 were cotton bud users and among 83 controls only 29 were cotton bud users. Different types of dermatological diseases were neurodermatitis (34.32%), otitis externa (28.36%), contact dermatitis (26.87%) and wax impaction (8.95%). Ninety three percent of cotton bud users were ignorant of harmful effects of this bad habit. Conclusion: There is a strong association of dermatological diseases of external ear with the use of cotton bud which should be discouraged by fortifying the warning by manufacturers and health education at various educational levels. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v4i3.20956 J Enam Med Col 2014; 4(3): 174-176
A 16-Year-Old Female with Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome
Authors: Rahman Mufti Munsurar , Rashid Mamunur , Parvin Rukhsana , Tarafder Arun Joyati
Published: November 2014

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder of hamartomatous polyposis of the gastrointestinal tract, with pigmentation around lips and macules on the buccal mucosa that typically manifests itself as recurrent colicky abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction due to intussusception. Here we report a case of a 16-year-old girl who presented with abdominal pain, vomiting and previous history of laparotomy for intussusception. Multiple well demarcated black pigmented macules on lips, perioral region, buccal mucosa, digits, palms and soles were noted. She was diagnosed as a case of Peutz-Jeghers syndrome and managed conservatively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v4i3.20958 J Enam Med Col 2014; 4(3): 184-187
Giant Thrombosed Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) in A 50-Year-Old Male
Authors: Rupa Sharmin Akhtar
Published: November 2014

Abstract not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v4i3.20960 J Enam Med Col 2014; 4(3): 191-192
Time Series Prediction Method of Bank Cash Flow and Simulation Comparison
Authors: Cui Wen-Hua , Wang Jie-Sheng , Ning Chen-Xu
Published: November 2014

In order to improve the accuracy of all kinds of information in the cash business and enhance the linkage between cash inventory forecasting and cash management information in the commercial bank, the first moving average prediction method, the second moving average prediction method, the first exponential smoothing prediction and the second exponential smoothing prediction methods are adopted to realize the time series prediction of bank cash flow, respectively. The prediction accuracy of the cash flow time series is improved by optimizing the algorithm parameters. The simulation experiments are carried out on the reality commercial bank’s cash flow data and the predictive performance comparison results show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
The Role of Cationic Polypeptides in Modulating HIV-1 Infection of the Cervicovaginal Mucosa
Authors: Cole Amy , Cole Alexander
Published: November 2014

The mucosa and overlying fluid of the female reproductive tract (FRT) are portals for the heterosexual transmission of HIV-1. Toward the ongoing development of topically applied microbicides and mucosal vaccines against HIV-1, it is evermore important to understand how the dynamic FRT mucosa is involved in controlling transmission and infection of HIV-1. Cationic peptides and proteins are the principal innate immune effector molecules of mucosal surfaces, and interact in a combinatorial fashion to modulate HIV-1 infection of the cervix and vagina. While cationic peptides and proteins have historically been categorized as antimicrobial or have other host-benefitting roles, an increasing number of these molecules have been found to augment HIV-1 infection and potentially antagonize host defense. Complex environmental factors such as hormonal fluctuations and/or bacterial and viral co-infections provide additional challenges to both experimentation and interpretation of results. In the context of heterosexual transmission of HIV-1, this review explores how various cationic peptides and proteins participate in modulating host defense against HIV-1 of the cervicovaginal mucosa.
Interactome Mapping Reveals Important Pathways in Skeletal Muscle Development of Pigs
Authors: Cao Jianhua , Huang Tinghua , Li Xinyun , Zhao Shuhong
Published: November 2014

The regulatory relationship and connectivity among genes involved in myogenesis and hypertrophy of skeletal muscle in pigs still remain large challenges. Presentation of gene interactions is a potential way to understand the mechanisms of developmental events in skeletal muscle. In this study, genome-wide transcripts and miRNA profiling was determined for Landrace pigs at four time points using microarray chips. A comprehensive method integrating gene ontology annotation and interactome network mapping was conducted to analyze the biological patterns and interaction modules of muscle development events based on differentially expressed genes and miRNAs. Our results showed that in total 484 genes and 34 miRNAs were detected for the duration from embryonic stage to adult in pigs, which composed two linear expression patterns with consensus changes. Moreover, the gene ontology analysis also disclosed that there were three typical biological events i.e., microstructure assembly of sarcomere at early embryonic stage, myofibril formation at later embryonic stage and function establishments of myoblast cells at postnatal stage. The interactome mappings of different time points also found the down-regulated trend of gene expression existed across the whole duration, which brought a possibility to introduce the myogenesis related miRNAs into the interactome regulatory networks of skeletal muscle in pigs.
Concise and Straightforward Asymmetric Synthesis of a Cyclic Natural Hydroxy-Amino Acid
Authors: Simirgiotis Mario , Vallejos Javier , Areche Carlos , Sepúlveda Beatriz
Published: November 2014

An enantioselective total synthesis of the natural amino acid (2S,4R,5R)-4,5-di-hydroxy-pipecolic acid starting from D-glucoheptono-1, 4-lactone is presented. The best sequence employed as a key step the intramolecular nucleophilic displacement by an amino function of a 6-O-p-toluene-sulphonyl derivative of a methyl D-arabino-hexonate and involved only 12 steps with an overall yield of 19%. The structures of the compounds synthesized were elucidated on the basis of comprehensive spectroscopic (NMR and MS) and computational analysis.
Some Observations on the Development of Superior Photocatalytic Systems for Application to Water Purification by the “Adsorb and Shuttle” or the Interphase Charge Transfer Mechanisms
Authors: Langford Cooper , Izadifard Maryam , Radwan Emad , Achari Gopal
Published: November 2014

Adsorb and shuttle (A/S) and interfacial charge transfer are the two major strategies for overcoming recombination in photocatalysis in this era of nanoparticle composites. Their relationships are considered here. A review of key literature is accompanied by a presentation of three new experiments within the overall aim of assessing the relation of these strategies. The cases presented include: A/S by a high silica zeolite/TiO2 composite, charge transfer (CT) between phases in a TiO2/WO3 composite and both A/S and CT by composites of TiO2 with powered activated carbon (AC) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). The opportunities presented by the two strategies for moving toward photocatalysts that could support applications for the removal of contaminants from drinking water or that lead to a practical adsorbent for organics that could be regenerated photocatalytically link this discussion to ongoing research here.
The Effect of Lycii Radicis Cortex Extract on Bone Formation in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Park Eunkuk , Jin Hyun-Seok , Cho Doo-Yeoun , Kim Jeonghyun , Kim Mun-Chang , Choi Chun , Jin Yilan , Lee Ji-Won , Park Jin-Hyok , Chung Yoon-Sok , Huh Dam , Jeong Seon-Yong
Published: November 2014

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease caused by decreased bone mass; it enhances the risk of bone fracture. This study aimed to discover novel herbal extract(s) for the treatment of osteoporosis. We screened 64 ethanol extracts of edible plants native to Korea for their ability to increase the cellular proliferation and differentiation of two osteoblastic cell lines: C3H10T1/2 and MC3T3-E1. We selected a Lycii Radicis Cortex (LRC), Lycium Chinese root bark as the primary candidate. Treatment with LRC extract showed enhanced alkaline phosphatase activity and increased expression of bone metabolic markers Alpl, Runx2, and Bglap genes in both osteoblastic cell lines. There was no effect on the osteoclastic differentiation of primary-cultured monocytes from the mouse bone marrows. Furthermore, the study examined the effect of LRC extract in vivo in ovariectomizd (OVX) mice for 8 weeks and 16 weeks, respectively. Bone mineral density (BMD) was significantly higher in LRC extract-administered group than in the non-LRC-administered OVX control group. The results indicated that LRC extract prevented the OVX-induced BMD loss in mice via promoting the differentiation of osteoblast linage cells. These results suggest that LRC extract may be a good natural herbal medicine candidate for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Inappropriate Usage of Dietary Supplements in Patients by Miscommunication with Physicians in Japan
Authors: Chiba Tsuyoshi , Sato Yoko , Nakanishi Tomoko , Yokotani Kaori , Suzuki Sachina , Umegaki Keizo
Published: November 2014

Recently, people have used dietary supplements not only for nutritional supplementation, but also for treatment of their diseases. However, use of dietary supplements to treat diseases, especially with medications, may cause health problems in patients. In this study, we investigated use of dietary supplements in patients in Japan. This survey was conducted from January to December 2012, and was completed by 2732 people, including 599 admitted patients, 1154 ambulatory patients, and 979 healthy subjects who attended a seminar about dietary supplements. At the time of the questionnaire, 20.4% of admitted patients, 39.1% of ambulatory patients, and 30.7% of healthy subjects were using dietary supplements, which including vitamin/mineral supplements, herbal extracts, its ingredients, or food for specified health uses. The primary purpose for use in all groups was health maintenance, whereas 3.7% of healthy subjects, 10.0% of ambulatory patients, and 13.2% of admitted patients used dietary supplements to treat diseases. In addition, 17.7% of admitted patients and 36.8% of ambulatory patients were using dietary supplements concomitantly with their medications. However, among both admitted patients and ambulatory patients, almost 70% did not mention dietary supplement use to their physicians. Overall, 3.3% of all subjects realized adverse effects associated with dietary supplements. Communication between patients and physicians is important to avoid health problems associated with the use of dietary supplements.
Enhanced Cellular Delivery and Biocompatibility of a Small Layered Double Hydroxide–Liposome Composite System
Authors: Dong Haiyan , Parekh Harendra , Xu Zhi
Published: November 2014

The various classes of gene delivery vectors possess distinct advantages and disadvantages, each of which impacts on cargo loading, delivery and, ultimately, its function. With this in mind, herein we report on a small layered double hydroxide (sLDH)–liposome composite system, drawing upon the salient features of LDH and liposome classes of vectors, while avoiding their inherent shortfalls when used independently. sLDH–liposome composites were prepared by the hydration of freeze-dried matrix method. These composite systems, with a Z-average size of ≈200 nm, exhibited low cytotoxicity and demonstrated good suspension stability, both in water and cell culture medium after rehydration. Our studies demonstrate that short dsDNAs/ssDNAs were completely bound and protected in the composite system at an sLDH:DNA mass ratio of 20:1, regardless of the approach to DNA loading. This composite system delivered DNA to HCT-116 cells with ≈3-fold greater efficiency, when compared to sLDH alone. Our findings point towards the sLDH-liposome composite system being an effective and biocompatible gene delivery system.