bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flavonoids from leaves of Derris urucu: assessment of potential effects on seed germination and development of weeds
Authors: SILVA EWERTON A.S. DA , LOBO LIVIA T. , SILVA GEILSON A. DA , SOUZA FILHO ANTONIO PEDRO DA S. , SILVA MILTON N. DA , ARRUDA ALBERTO C. , GUILHON GISELLE M.S.P. , SANTOS LOURIVALDO S. , ARRUDA MARA S.P.
Published: October 2013

In some previous studies, we described the isolation of nine compounds from leaves of Derris urucu, a species found widely in the Amazon rainforest, identified as five stilbenes and four dihydroflavonols. In this work, three of these dihydroflavonols [urucuol A (1), urucuol B (2) and isotirumalin (3)] were evaluated to identify their potential as allelochemicals, and we are also reporting the isolation and structural determination of a new flavonoid [5,3′-dihydroxy-4′-methoxy-(7,6:5″,6″)-2″,2″-dimethylpyranoflavanone (4)]. We investigated the effects of the dihydroflavonols 1-3 on seed germination and radicle and hypocotyl growth of the weed Mimosa pudica, using solutions at 150 mg.L–1. Urucuol B, alone, was the substance with the greatest potential to inhibit seed germination (26%), while isotirumalin showed greater ability to reduce the development of the hypocotyl (25%), but none of the three substances showed the potential to inhibit radicle. When combined in pairs, the substances showed synergism for the development of root and hypocotyl and effects on seed germination that could be attributed to antagonism. When tested separately, the trend has become more intense effects on seed germination, while for the substances tested in pairs, the intensity of the effect was greater on development of weed.
Multivariate optimization of an ultrasound-assisted extraction procedure for Cu, Mn, Ni and Zn determination in ration to chickens
Authors: BARROS JOELIA M. , BEZERRA MARCOS A. , VALASQUES GISSELI S. , NASCIMENTO JUNIOR BARAQUIZIO B. DO , SOUZA ANDERSON S. , ARAGAO NADIA M. DE
Published: October 2013

In this work, multivariate optimization techniques were used to develop a method based on the ultrasound-assisted extraction for copper, manganese, nickel and zinc determination from rations for chicken nutrition using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The proportions of extracting components (2.0 mol.L–1 nitric, hydrochloric and acetic acid solutions) were optimized using centroid-simplex mixture design. The optimum proportions of this mixture taken as percentage of each component were respectively 20%, 37% and 43%. Variables of method (sample mass, sonication time and final acid concentration) were optimized using Doehlert design. The optimum values found for these variables were respectively 0.24 g, 18s and 3.6 mol.L–1. The developed method allows copper, manganese, nickel and zinc determination with quantification limits of 2.82; 4.52; 10.7; e 9.69 µg.g–1, and precision expressed as relative standard deviation (%RSD, 25 µg.g–1, N = 5) of 5.30; 2.13; 0.88; and 0.83%, respectively. This method was applied in the analytes determination from chicken rations collected from specialized commerce in Jequié city (Bahia State/Brazil). Application of paired t-test at the obtained results, in a confidence level of 95%, does not show significant difference between the proposed method and the microwave-assisted digestion.
Morphological and hematological studies of Trypanosoma spp. infecting ornamental armored catfish from Guamá River-PA, Brazil
Authors: Fujimoto Rodrigo Y. , Neves Mikaelle S. , Santos Ruda F.B. , Souza Natalino C. , Couto Marcia V.S. do , Lopes Josiane N.S. , Diniz Daniel G. , Eiras Jorge C.
Published: October 2013

A total of 281 specimens of freshwater armored ornamental fish species (Leporacanthicus galaxias, Lasiancistrus saetiger, Cochliodon sp., Hypostomus sp., Pseudacanthicus spinosus, Ancistrus sp. and Rineloricaria cf. lanceolata) were captured at the hydrological basin of Guamá River, Pará, Brazil. The infection by Trypanosoma spp. was inspected. The morphological and morphometric characterization of the parasites and the hematological parameters were determined. Leporacanthicus galaxias and Pseudacanthicus spinosus presented 100% infection prevalence, and the other species showed a variable prevalence of infection. The parasites showed clearly different morphotypes and dimensions, and probably belong to different species. The hematological response to the infection varied with the host. Cochliodon sp. showed no differences between infected and not infected fish. In other species several modifications on some hematological parameters were found, but apparently without causing disease. It is emphasized the possibility of introduction of the parasites in new environments due to the artificial movements of these ornamental fish.
Cryopreservation of mutton snapper ( Lutjanus analis) sperm
Authors: SANCHES EDUARDO G. , OLIVEIRA IDILI R. , SERRALHEIRO PEDRO C. DA SILVA , CERQUEIRA VINICIUS R.
Published: October 2013

This study aimed to develop a protocol of semen cryopreservation of the mutton snapper Lutjanus analis. The interaction between three extenders ( pH 6.1; 7.8 and 8.2) , two concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide ( DMSO, 5 and 10%) and three cooling rates ( -90; -60 and -30°C.min−1) on the sperm motility rate and motility time were analyzed by a factorial experiment. A sample of 30 fishes ( 1,261 ± 449 g) collected in the nature was kept in floating net cages. The semen was frozen by using cryogenic straws, in nitrogen vapour and transferred, later, to liquid nitrogen. Fertilization test was accomplished to evaluate the viability of the cryopreserved sperm. The highest sperm motility rate and motility time ( P < 0.05) was achieved by combining extender C ( pH 8.2) with DMSO ( 10%) and cooling rate of -60°C.min−1 ( P < 0.05) . The use of cryopreserved sperm presented fertilization rates higher than 59% validating the present protocol for mutton snapper.
Long‐term survivorship of single‐needle pinyon (Pinus monophylla) in mixed‐conifer ecosystems of the Great Basin, USA
Authors: Biondi Franco , Bradley Megan
Published: October 2013

We examined stand structure and development of mixed‐conifer ecosystems in the south‐central Great Basin where pinyon (Pinus monophylla) and juniper (Juniperus osteosperma) are found together with other species, such as ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), with particular emphasis on pre‐ and post‐settlement conditions. Two study sites (Mt. Irish and the Clover Mountains) were selected based on their relative proximity but different topographic conditions and modern fire regime. Vegetation analysis was conducted on 12 0.1‐ha plots per site, where all woody stems were mapped, measured, and cored for age determination, as well as on a systematic grid at 175‐m intervals where tree measurements and increment cores were obtained. At Mt. Irish the total basal area was 14.5 m2 ha−1 and the tree density was 324 stems ha−1, while at the Clover Mountains they were 13.8 m2 ha−1 and 342 stems ha−1, respectively. Pre‐settlement trees were found throughout each site, with maximum tree ages of 400 years or more, and older individuals being particularly common at Mt. Irish. Density of pinyon pine at both sites more than doubled since the 1800s, with peak survivorship occurring in the early 1900s at Mt. Irish and extending into the mid‐1900s at the Clover Mountains. Other tree species, including ponderosa pine, juniper, and white fir (Abies concolor), which have been present over the past few centuries in these stands, have not experienced the large population increase shown by single‐needle pinyon, with the exception of ponderosa pine at the Clover Mountains between the late 1800s and early 1900s. Pinyon mortality was <10% at both sites, even after the early 2000s drought, in agreement with other published studies of Pinus monophylla population dynamics. The presence of old individuals across the landscape indicated that pinyon populations have grown in density without invading new areas. Because wildfire regime and land‐use changes were not identical between the two study sites, and increases of pinyon‐juniper populations have occurred in other Great Basin areas at about the same time, climate was the most likely driver. Therefore, pinyon‐juniper woodlands, which have recently experienced dramatic episodes of climate‐related dieoffs in regions where Pinus edulis is present, have not been negatively impacted by climate in the Great Basin, where the pinyon species is Pinus monophylla.
Cutaneous Manifestations of ESRD
Authors: Galperin Timur A. , Cronin Antonia J. , Leslie Kieron S.
Published: October 2013

A broad range of skin diseases occurs in patients with ESRD: from the benign and asymptomatic to the physically disabling and life-threatening. Many of them negatively impact on quality of life. Their early recognition and treatment are essential in reducing morbidity and mortality. The cutaneous manifestations can be divided into two main categories: nonspecific and specific. The nonspecific manifestations are commonly seen and include skin color changes, xerosis, half-and-half nails, and pruritus. The specific disorders include acquired perforating dermatosis, bullous dermatoses, metastatic calcification, and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. This review article describes these conditions and considers the underlying pathophysiology, clinical presentations, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Synthesis of [Re2Cl4(O)2(µ-O)(3,5-lut)4] and investigation of its structure via X-ray and spectroscopic measurements and DFT calculations
Authors: Michalik Sławomir , Małecki Jan , Młynarczyk Natalia
Published: October 2013

A combined experimental and computational study of the dinuclear rhenium(V) complex containing (ReO)2(µ-O) core is presented in this article. The solid-state [Re2Cl4(O)2(µ-O)(3,5-lut)4] (3,5-lut = 3,5-dimethylpyridine) complex was characterised structurally (by single crystal X-ray diffraction) and spectroscopically (by IR, NMR, UV-VIS). The electronic structure was examined using the density functional theory (DFT) method. The spin-allowed electronic transitions were calculated using the time-dependent DFT method, and the UV-VIS spectrum was discussed.
Hyperemia in Plantar Fasciitis Determined by Power Doppler Ultrasound
Authors: McMillan Andrew M. , Landorf Karl B. , Gregg Julie M. , De Luca Jason , Cotchett Matthew P. , Menz Hylton B.
Published: October 2013

Study Design

Cross-sectional observational study.

Objectives

To investigate the presence of soft tissue hyperemia in plantar fasciitis with power Doppler ultrasound.

Background

Localized hyperemia is an established feature of tendinopathy, suggesting that neurovascular in-growth may contribute to tendon-associated pain in some patients. The presence of abnormal soft tissue vascularity can be assessed with Doppler ultrasound, and a positive finding can assist with targeted treatment plans. However, very little is known regarding the presence of hyperemia in plantar fasciitis and the ability of routine Doppler ultrasound to identify vascular in-growth in the plantar fascia near its proximal insertion.

Methods

This observational study included 30 participants with plantar fasciitis unrelated to systemic disease and 30 age- and sex-matched controls. Ultrasound examination was performed with a 13- to 5-MHz linear transducer, and power Doppler images were assessed by 2 blinded investigators.

Results

Hyperemia of the plantar fascia was present in 8 of 30 participants with plantar fasciitis and in 2 of 30 controls. The between-group difference for hyperemia, using a 4-point scale, was statistically significant, with participants with plantar fasciitis showing increased Doppler ultrasound signal compared to controls (Mann-Whitney U, P = .03). However, the majority of participants with plantar fasciitis with evidence of hyperemia demonstrated very mild color changes, and only 3 were found to have moderate or marked hyperemia.

Conclusion

Mild hyperemia can occur with plantar fasciitis, but most individuals will not exhibit greater soft tissue vascularity when assessed with routine Doppler ultrasound. Clinicians treating plantar fasciitis should not consider a positive Doppler signal as essential for diagnosis of the condition but, rather, as a feature that may help to refine the treatment plan for an individual patient. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(12):875–880. Epub 11 October 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4810
Toppling and wedge failures in Malekhu River area, Malekhu, Central Nepal Lesser Himalaya
Authors: Tamrakar Naresh Kazi , Singh Jaya Laxmi , Bista Krishna Kumar , Maharjan Prayag
Published: October 2013

A huge landslide was identified on the right bank of the Malekhu River at about 1 km upstream from the Malekhu Bridge of the Prithvi Highway, and was named Malekhu Landslide. The landslide area consists of quartzite with sericite partings, chlorite schist and amphibolite of the Robang Formation of the Kathmandu Complex. The landslide extends for about 200 m along the river bank slope and its crown and toe have elevation respectively of 429 m and 361 m a.s.l. The major portion of the hillslope has been altered by landsliding as evidenced from the different geometry of slopes consisting of very steep scarp slope, steep to moderate slope with toppled and wedge failure debris, and several wedges and gullies. The right-side up layers have an average dip direction of 167° and a plunge of 56-90°, whereas the overturned layers have an average dip direction and plunge of 316°/32°. The direction towards which the toppling had occurred is 167°. The overturned layers had rotated to 36°, during which the layer dip direction had rotated counterclockwise to an amount of 31° from the major direction of toppling, and this rotation should have occurred during sliding of the toppled block. The Malekhu Landslide is a complex landslide experiencing more than one mode of failure of which the most prominent one is the toppling. It is a kind of flexural toppling of passive mode and had already occurred and now is suspended. The second mode of failure is the wedge sliding. The kinematic analysis of discontinuities on the slope for evaluating possibility of landsliding has indicated that the wedge failure is potential due to the presence of a line of intersection produced by the discontinuity parallel to the foliation of the right-side up layers and the overturned layers. This suggests that the toppled blocks may further slide. It is required to protect the slope from landsliding as there have been extended two unpaved roads one along the crown and the other along the toe of the landslide, and due to existence of the Malekhu Bridge in the downstream stretch of the river. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v16i0.8881 Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol. 16, 2013, pp. 21-28
Rock Mass Rating and Geological Strength Index of rock masses of Thopal-Malekhu River areas, Central Nepal Lesser Himalaya
Authors: Singh Jaya Laxmi , Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: October 2013

The rock slopes of the Thopal-Malekhu River areas, Lesser Himalaya, were characterized applying various systems of rock mass classification, such as Rock mass Rating (RMR) and Geological Strength Index (GSI), because the study area comprises well exposed rock formations of the Nawakot and Kathmandu Complexes, across the Thopal-Malekhu River areas. In RMR system, mainly five parameters viz. Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) of rock, Rock Quality Designation (RQD), spacing of discontinuity, condition of discontinuity, and groundwater condition were considered. The new GSI charts, which were suitable for schistose and much disintegrated rock masses, were used to characterize rock slopes based on quantitative analysis of the rock mass structure and surface condition of discontinuities. RMR ranged from 36 to 82 (poor to very good rock mass) and GSI from 13.5±3 to 58±3 (poor to good rock mass). Slates (of the Benighat Slate) are poor rock masses with low strength, very poor RQD, and close to very close spacing of discontinuity, and dolomites (Dhading Dolomite) are fair rocks with disintegrated, poorly interlocked, and heavily broken rock masses yielding very low RMR and GSI values. Phyllites (Dandagaun Phyllite), schist (Robang Formation) and quartzite (Fagfog Quartzite, Robang Formation and Chisapani Quartzite), dolomite (Malekhu Limestone), and metasandstone (Tistung Formation) are fair rock masses with moderate GSI and RMR values, whereas quartzose schist and gneiss (Kulekhani Formation) are very good rock masses having comparatively higher RMR and GSI. The relationship between GSI and RMR shows positive and good degree of correlation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v16i0.8882   Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol. 16, 2013, pp. 29-42
Smear negative pulmonary tuberculosis and infectivity
Authors: Thapa B
Published: October 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v2i3.8663 Int J Infect Microbiol 2013;2(3):68-69
Outbreak investigation of Cholera in Shantinagar VDC of Ilam District in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Rayamajhi RB , Pokharel G , Sharma G , Neupane B , Khanal VK , Kafle SU , Paudel IS , Pokharel PK
Published: October 2013

INTRODUCTION: In 2012 August, suspected cases of Cholera in increased number were reported to the district health office of Ilam by the in charge of Shantinagar health post asking for intervention to stop further occurrences. The aim of the investigation was to identify the possible source of infection, the causative agent and the application of local control measures for prevention of further recurrences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Focus group discussion and Key informant survey were conducted to assess the sanitary hygiene and practices along with source of drinking water for probable cause of diarrhea. Similarly, face to face interview was done among the sick and healthy local residents to collect the demographic and clinical details. Ten stool and water samples were sent for analysis in Biratnagar, Dharan. RESULTS: 150 local residents had suffered from diarrhea with no deaths. People of all the age group were affected with children being more sufferers. Six of the stool analysis and eight of the water samples were positive for Vibrio Cholerae. It was also observed that sanitary hygiene and practices wasn’t adequate after nose and bottoms cleaning of the children and before preparing the meal. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of adequate cleanliness of the common water tank was found to be the culprit behind the incident and Vibrio Cholerae being the causative agent. Local residents and water management committee were demonstrated the technique of chlorination of water and proper hand washing practices to prevent further recurrences. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v2i3.8666 Int J Infect Microbiol 2013;2(3):87-90
A descriptive study of associated factors with HIV/AIDS among antiretroviral users of Eastern Nepal
Authors: Khanal VK , Rayamajhi RB , Neupane B , Kafle SU , Thapa B , Karki P , Paudel IS , Jha N
Published: October 2013

INTRODUCTION: In Nepal, the firstcase of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) was reported in 1988, since then the epidemic is driven by sexual transmission and intravenous drug use. The aim of this research is to study various associated factors with HIV/AIDS patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out from May 2009 – April 2010 at three Anti-retroviral treatment centers (B.P.K.I.H.S, Dharan, Koshi Zonal Hospital, Biratnagar and Mechi Zonal Hospital, Bhadrapur). A purposive sampling technique was applied to include all 234 seropositive patients who were under medication from these centers. RESULTS: Males represented 71% of the patients. More than 75%of the patients fell in the age group of 20-39 years. 35.9% of them had visited commercial sexual workers and similar proportion of them had shared needles during intravenous drug use. CONCLUSIONS: Unsafe high risk behavior with commercial sexual worker and needle sharing habit were found to be the associated with HIV/AIDS patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v2i3.8667 Int J Infect Microbiol 2013;2(3):95-98
Assessment of bacterial load in broiler chicken meat from the retail meat shops in Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Bhandari N , Nepali DB , Paudyal S
Published: October 2013

INTRODUCTION: Keeping quality of meat and meat related food hazard relates to microbes present in the meat during processing or storage. The poultry slaughtered and dressed under Chitwan conditions carrying high initial contamination would be present in meat as inherent contamination in the finished products. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 26 fresh broiler meat samples from registered retail shops. The samples were subjected to bacteriological analysis such as total viable count (TVC), total enterobacteriaceae count (TEC), total coliform count (TCC) and total staphylococcal count (TSC). Also, the samples were analyzed for the detection of Salmonella spp. and identified by different biochemical tests. RESULTS: The mean counts in log10±SE colony forming units per gram (cfu/g) for Bharatpur, Ratnanagar and Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS) vicinity were obtained as 11.1±0.3, 11.5±0.3 and 12.2±0.5 TVC; 8.5±0.2, 9.2±0.3 and 10.2±0.4 TEC; 6.5±0.3, 7.6±0.3 and 8.4±0.5 TCC; 6.5±0.2, 6.8±0.3 and 7.7±0.4 TSC respectively. No samples were found to be within the permissible limits given by different agencies. Prevalence of Salmonella spp. in retail broiler meat in Chitwan was found 46.2%. CONCLUSION: The retail broiler meat samples from the locations contain high count of bacteria suggesting deplorable state of hygienic and sanitary practices. The presence of Salmonella and Staphyloccus aureus organisms over the permissible limits are of special concern because these account for potential food borne intoxication. So, the need for microbial assessment of fresh meats can be emphasized. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v2i3.8671   Int J Infect Microbiol 2013;2(3):99-104
Ovarian Dysgerminoma: Unusual Presentation in Pregnancy with Acute Abdomen due to Internal Hemorrhage
Authors: Agrawal Ajay , Rijal P , Pokharel H , Karki S , Basnet P , Dahal P
Published: October 2013

Dysgerminoma tends to occur in young women although its incidence in pregnancy is low. Torsion and incarceration occurs in nearly half of the cases. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment offers the best prognosis to the patient presenting with dysgerminoma. However because of enlarging abdominal size, pregnancy may mask the rapidly growing dysgerminoma often leading to late presentation. This is a case report of a female 30 years of age with stage 3C dysgerminoma which lead to acute surgical abdomen at 33weeks of pregnancy. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 7 / No. 1 / Issue 13 / Jan- June, 2012 / 53-55 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v7i1.8838
Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Review of Cases Managed at B P Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital
Authors: Pariyar Jitendra , Shrestha B , Shrestha J , Shrestha J , Rauniyar BP , Regmi SC
Published: October 2013

Aims: This study was done to analyze the clinical presentation and management outcomes of gestational trophoblastic disease managed at B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Chitwan, Nepal. Methods: Descriptive study was conducted at B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital. Case records of all gestational trophoblastic cases from January 2001 to December 2007 were analyzed regarding clinical details, investigations and treatment outcomes. Results: Forty-five cases of 16 to 50 years (mean 29.1 years) had gestational trophoblastic disease, among which 19 (43%) were of Tibeto- Burmese and 15 (33%) Indo-Aryan ethnic group. Hydatidiform mole, invasive mole and choriocarcinoma were observed in 17 (37.8%), six (13.3%) and 22 (48.8%) cases respectively. In seven cases (15.5%) molar pregnancy had occurred in primigravida, seven cases (15.5%) had previous molar pregnancy and in 16 (35.5%) cases GTD had occurred following abortion. Vaginal bleeding was the commonest presentation and 26 (57.8%) cases had anaemia. Eleven (24.5%) cases had theca luteal cyst, 17 (37.8%) had lung metastasis and 4 (8.9%) had brain metastasis. Chemotherapy was administered in 34 (75.5%) cases, among which 15 (33.3%) received single agent and 18 (40%) received multiagent chemotherapy. Hysterectomy was done in nine (20%) cases. Brain irradiation was done in a case with brain metastasis. Five (11.2%) cases with high WHO risk score left the hospital against medical advice. There were three (6.6%) mortalities. Thirty-seven (72.1%) cases were in remission and follow-up. Conclusions: Early diagnosis of disease and proper management strongly influences the outcome of GTD. Even in disseminated state GTD can be cured. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 8 / No. 1 / Issue 15 / Jan- June, 2013 / 18-21 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v8i1.8855
Factors Influencing Perception of Labor Pain among Parturient Women at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Shrestha Isha , Pradhan N , Sharma J
Published: October 2013

Aims: This study was done to understand the severity of labor pain in parturients of Kathmandu and to determine factors affecting it. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Kathmandu, Nepal where 300 term parturientsin active labor (cervical dilatation of 3-5 cm with three uterine contractions in 10 minutes each lasting for ≥ 30 seconds) were analysed for socio-demographic data, clinical profile and pain assessment.Visual analog scale was used for pain assessment. Results: The intensity of labor pain was graded as severe by 32%, moderateby 57% and mild by 11% of parturients.Almost half ofthe parturients in the age group of ≤19years described labor pain as severe as compared to women between 20-34years (30.4%) and ≥35years (20%). Among the nulliparous parturients, 37% described it as severe compared to only 20.7% in≥Para1.In those with≥higher secondary leveleducation, 35.9% described labor pain as severe as compared to those women who had education of ≤primary level(26.9%) and upto secondary level (27.1%). Labor pain was seen to be more severe in advanced labor withmore than half describingit as severe when the cervix was dilated to 5 cm, as compared to only 25.9% and 29.4% of the parturients at 3 and 4cm cervical dilatation respectively. Conclusions: This study concluded that the labor pain was moderate to severe for majority of the parturients.Adolescents, nullipara, patients with higher education and those in advanced laborwere more likely to perceive labor pain of higher intensity. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 8 / No. 1 / Issue 15 / Jan- June, 2013 / 26-30 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v8i1.8857
Relationship between Maternal Haemoglobin and Fetal Weight
Authors: Rana Sadikchya Singh , Sharma S , Chand A , Malla R
Published: October 2013

Aims: This study was done to determine the relationship between maternal haemoglobin and fetal weight. Methods: This study was carried out at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital in 491 primigravidas with full term singleton pregnancy. The study population was divided into two groups, one who had haemoglobin 10 gm% or more and the other women having haemoglobin less than 10 gm%. Fetal weight as the outcome variable was compared between anaemic and nonanaemic mothers and the relation between maternal haemoglobin and fetal weight was studied. Results: The prevalence of anaemia was 46.2% out of which 99.5% had mild anaemia and 0.5% had moderate anaemia. Mean haemoglobin level was 11.54 gm% among non anaemic women and mean birth weight was 2.9 kg in this group whereas mean haemoglobin level was 9.2 gm% in anaemic women and mean birth weight was 2.6 kg in this group and 60% babies had low birth weight (<2.5 kg) born to anaemic women (haemoglobin <10 gm%), and 40% babies had fetal weight >2.5 kg. Similarly babies born to nonanaemic women (haemoglobin >10 gm%) 18.1% had LBW and 81.9% had fetal weight >2.5 kg. The risk of low birth weight was 6.8 times higher among anaemic mothers as compared to non- anaemic mothers which was statistically significant with p-value of 0.0001 (OR 6.80 95% CI, 3.83-12.12). Conclusions: Anemia in pregnancy is one of the causes for poor fetal outcome. Proper antenatal care and counseling can reduce the incidence of anaemia in pregnancy. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 8 / No. 1 / Issue 15 / Jan- June, 2013 / 37-40 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v8i1.8860
The Importance of Institutional Culture to the Adjustment of Incarcerated Youth and Young Adults
Authors: Cesaroni Carla , Peterson-Badali Michele
Published: October 2013

Dans cette étude, nous discutons de constatations clés portant sur l'expérience et l'adaptation des jeunes emprisonnés et détenus avant procès. Les problèmes liés à la surutilisation de la ségrégation des adolescents et des jeunes adultes y sont débattus. À l'aide de théorie et d'études portant sur les adultes émergents – la période de développement suivant l'adolescence –, nous mettons l'accent sur la nécessité de faire attention aux expériences des jeunes adultes en prison.
Using Authentic Client Interactions in Communication Skills Training: Predictors of Proficiency
Authors: Hafen McArthur , Drake Adryanna A. Siqueira , Rush Bonnie R. , Nelson Susan C.
Published: October 2013

Communication training has become a focus of concern in recent years in veterinary medicine. Existing literature to date indicates that Colleges of Veterinary Medicine (CVMs) have implemented various communication training protocols. The present study focused on the evaluation of a communication training protocol implemented in 2007 at Kansas State University (KSU) in a sample of veterinary medical students (N=415) across five cohorts. The protocol includes video review of authentic client interactions, feedback from authentic clients, and small-group communication training. Findings indicate that targeted communication skills improved through video-review feedback and small-group communication training. Communication scores were particularly affected by students' attention to improving communication deficiencies during a second student-client video. Baseline scores from the first student-client video in four specific areas (using nonverbal communication, setting expectations, building rapport, and being able to clarify) were predictive of overall performance during the second evaluation. Based on the results of the present study, using videos of authentic client interactions is recommended as a valuable communication training teaching tool.
Bimodal Bidding in Experimental All-Pay Auctions
Authors: Ernst Christiane , Thöni Christian
Published: October 2013

We report results from experimental first-price, sealed-bid, all-pay auctions for a good with a common and known value. We observe bidding strategies in groups of two and three bidders and under two extreme information conditions. As predicted by the Nash equilibrium, subjects use mixed strategies. In contrast to the prediction under standard assumptions, bids are drawn from a bimodal distribution: very high and very low bids are much more frequent than intermediate bids. Standard risk preferences cannot account for our results. Bidding behavior is, however, consistent with the predictions of a model with reference dependent preferences as proposed by the prospect theory.
Community Perceptions of Air Pollution and Related Health Risks in Nairobi Slums
Authors: Egondi Thaddaeus , Kyobutungi Catherine , Ng Nawi , Muindi Kanyiva , Oti Samuel , Vijver Steven , Ettarh Remare , Rocklöv Joacim
Published: October 2013

Air pollution is among the leading global risks for mortality and responsible for increasing risk for chronic diseases. Community perceptions on exposure are critical in determining people’s response and acceptance of related policies. Therefore, understanding people’ perception is critical in informing the design of appropriate intervention measures. The aim of this paper was to establish levels and associations between perceived pollution and health risk perception among slum residents. A cross-sectional study of 5,317 individuals aged 35+ years was conducted in two slums of Nairobi. Association of perceived score and individual characteristics was assessed using linear regression. Spatial variation in the perceived levels was determined through hot spot analysis using ArcGIS. The average perceived air pollution level was higher among residents in Viwandani compared to those in Korogocho. Perceived air pollution level was positively associated with perceived health risks. The majority of respondents were exposed to air pollution in their place of work with 66% exposed to at least two sources of air pollution. Less than 20% of the respondents in both areas mentioned sources related to indoor pollution. The perceived air pollution level and related health risks in the study community were low among the residents indicating the need for promoting awareness on air pollution sources and related health risks.
Purified Brominated Indole Derivatives from Dicathais orbita Induce Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Esmaeelian Babak , Benkendorff Kirsten , Johnston Martin , Abbott Catherine
Published: October 2013

Dicathais orbita is a large Australian marine gastropod known to produce bioactive compounds with anticancer properties. In this research, we used bioassay guided fractionation from the egg mass extract of D. orbita using flash column chromatography and identified fractions containing tyrindoleninone and 6-bromoisatin as the most active against colon cancer cells HT29 and Caco-2. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LCMS) and 1H NMR were used to characterize the purity and chemical composition of the isolated compounds. An MTT assay was used to determine effects on cell viability. Necrosis and apoptosis induction using caspase/LDH assay and flow cytometry (PI/Annexin-V) and cell cycle analysis were also investigated. Our results show that semi-purified 6-bromoisatin had the highest anti-cancer activity by inhibiting cell viability (IC50 = ~100 µM) and increasing caspase 3/7 activity in both of the cell lines at low concentration. The fraction containing 6-bromoisatin induced 77.6% apoptosis and arrested 25.7% of the cells in G2/M phase of cell cycle in HT29 cells. Tyrindoleninone was less potent but significantly decreased the viability of HT29 cells at IC50 = 390 µM and induced apoptosis at 195 µM by increasing caspase 3/7 activity in these cells. This research will facilitate the development of these molluscan natural products as novel complementary medicines for colorectal cancer.
Comparative Analysis of Click Chemistry Mediated Activity-Based Protein Profiling in Cell Lysates
Authors: Yang Yinliang , Yang Xiaomeng , Verhelst Steven
Published: October 2013

Activity-based protein profiling uses chemical probes that covalently attach to active enzyme targets. Probes with conventional tags have disadvantages, such as limited cell permeability or steric hindrance around the reactive group. A tandem labeling strategy with click chemistry is now widely used to study enzyme targets in situ and in vivo. Herein, the probes are reacted in live cells, whereas the ensuing detection by click chemistry takes place in cell lysates. We here make a comparison of the efficiency of the activity-based tandem labeling strategy by using Cu(I)-catalyzed and strain-promoted click chemistry, different ligands and different lysis conditions.
Size Effect of Gold Nanoparticles in Catalytic Reduction of p-Nitrophenol with NaBH4
Authors: Lin Chao , Tao Kai , Hua Dayin , Ma Zhen , Zhou Shenghu
Published: October 2013

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) were prepared by reducing HAuCl4 with NaBH4. Their average particle sizes could be tuned in the range of 1.7 and 8.2 nm, by adjusting the amount of NaBH4 used during synthesis. The obtained Au NPs (colloids) were then loaded onto a commercial Al2O3 support to prepare Au/Al2O3 catalysts with tunable Au particle sizes. An optimal pH value (5.9) of the Au colloid solution was found to be essential for loading Au NPs onto Al2O3 while avoiding the growth of Au NPs. Au NPs and Au/Al2O3 catalysts were tested in the reduction of p-nitrophenol with NaBH4. Interestingly, the catalytic activity depended on the size of Au NPs, being the highest when the average size was 3.4 nm. Relevant characterization by UV-Vis, TEM, and XRD was conducted.
Impact of Multi-Micronutrient Supplementation on Growth and Morbidity of HIV-Infected South African Children
Authors: Mda Siyazi , Raaij Joop , Villiers François , Kok Frans
Published: October 2013

Poor growth, micronutrient deficiencies and episodes of diarrhea and respiratory infections occur frequently in HIV-infected children. We investigated whether multi-micronutrient supplementation would improve the growth performance and reduce the number of episodes of diarrhea and/or of respiratory symptoms in HIV-infected children. In a double-blind randomized trial, HIV-infected South African children aged 4–24 months (n = 201) were assigned to receive multi-micronutrient supplements or placebo daily for six months. The children were assessed for respiratory symptoms or diarrhea bi-weekly; weights and heights were measured monthly. In total, 121 children completed the six month follow up study period (60%). A total of 43 children died; 27 of them had received supplements. This difference in mortality was not statistically significant (p = 0.12). Weight-for-height Z-scores improved significantly (p < 0.05) among children given supplements compared with those given placebo (0.40 (0.09–0.71)) versus −0.04 (−0.39–0.31) (mean (95% CI)). Height-for-age Z-scores did not improve in both treatment groups. The number of monthly episodes of diarrhea in the placebo group (0.36 (0.26–0.46)) was higher (p = 0.09) than in the supplement group (0.25 (0.17–0.33)) and the number of monthly episodes of respiratory symptoms was significantly higher (p < 0.05) among children on placebos (1.01 (0.83–1.79)) than those on supplements (0.66 (0.52–0.80)). Multi-micronutrient supplements significantly improved wasting and reduced the number of episodes of diarrhea and respiratory symptoms.
La doctrine critique du rhéteur Tibérios
Authors: Chiron Pierre
Published: October 2013

Tiberius Rhetor (3rd to 4th centuries A.D.) is the author of a treatise on the figures of thought and expression used by Demosthenes (De figuris demosthenicis). This work is quite rightly considered as a minor one that is written in a somewhat careless style, relies heavily on its sources (Caecilius of Cale Acte, Apsines of Gadara and probably others too) and lacks precision in its references to Demosthenes' writings. Our first approach to the treatise, that of the source critic interested in the history of isolated figures, largely confirms the views traditionally expressed on Tiberius' work. Subsequently we attempt to examine the very conception of the treatise by reconstructing, insofar as that is possible, the author's intellectual objectives in writing it. It then becomes apparent that Tiberius' treatise contains certain qualities well worthy of our attention : his concern for economy of language and clarity of expression, his attempt to bring together the different branches of the theory of figures (the « apollodorean » figure, the figure as perceived by the theoreticians of the ideai, ίηηΗεηάο-σχτ\μα, etc.) and possibly his desire to produce an accurate and subtle characterization of Demosthenes' art.
Comparative Evaluation of Four Presumptive Tests for Blood to Detect Epithelial Injury on Fish
Authors: Colotelo Alison H , Smokorowski Karen E. , Haxton Tim , Cooke Steven J.
Published: October 2013

Current methods of fish epithelial injury detection are limited to gross macroscopic examination that has a subjective bias as well as an inability to reliably quantify the degree of injury. Fluorescein, a presumptive test for blood, has been shown to have the capability to detect and quantify fish epithelial injury. However, there are several other presumptive tests for blood (Bluestar©, phenolphthalein, and Hemastix®) that may have benefits over the use of fluorescein, particularly for field research on wild fish. This study investigated the capabilities of these four tests to detect and quantify a variety of injuries commonly encountered by fish (abrasion, cuts, fin frays, and punctures) using the freshwater bluegill Lepomis macrochirus as a model. Fluorescein was consistently found to be the most reliable (i.e., detected the highest proportion of true positive results and rarely detected false positive reactions) of the four presumptive tests for blood compared. Further testing was conducted to examine the reliability of fluorescein. By 24 h after an injury was inflicted, the injury was no longer detectable by fluorescein, and when fluorescein was applied to an injured fish, the fluorescein was no longer detectable 3 h after application. In a comparison of two common anaesthetics used in fisheries research, there was no significant difference in the proportion of injury detected when 3-aminobenzoic acid ethyl ester methanesulfate (tricaine) was used compared with a clove oil and ethanol (1∶9) solution. In summary, fluorescein was the most reliable presumptive test for blood examined in this study for the detection and quantification of recent (hours) fish epithelial injury.
T-SCORM
Authors: Miguel da Silva Francisco , Neto Francisco Milton Mendes , Burlamaqui Aquiles Medeiros Filgueira , Pinto João Phellipe Freitas , Fernandes Carlos Evandro de Medeiros , Castro de Souza Rafael
Published: October 2013

Interactive Digital Television (iDTV) has facilitated and expanded the communication and interaction in activities of knowledge acquisitions, entertainment, and recreation in the distance learning field. This new way of teaching and learning has been called t-Learning. In this context, the Learning Objects (LOs) have an important role in assisting in the electronic courses' development. Due the fast progress of e-Learning, some efforts toward standardization have appeared in order to enable the reusability of educational contents and interoperability among systems, and one of these standards is the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM). Therefore, the main goal of this work is to present an extension of SCORM aiming to adapt it to improve the search and navigation of LOs with educational content for t-Learning. This is done through an authoring tool named T-SCORM ADAPTER, which is able to apply this extension in a fast and efficient way.
A Learning Object Recommendation System
Authors: Pereira Adriano , Augustin Iara
Published: October 2013

Emotions play a very important role in the learning process. Affective computing studies try to identify users’ affective state, as emotion, using affect models and affect detection techniques, in order to improve human-computer interactions, as in a learning environment. The Internet explosion makes a huge volume of information, including learning objects data, available. In this scenario, recommendation systems help users by selecting and suggesting probable interesting items, dealing with large data availability and decision making problems, and customizing users’ interaction. In u-learning context, students could learn anywhere and anytime, having different options of data objects available. Since different students have different preferences and learning styles, personalization becomes an important feature in u-learning systems. Considering all this, the authors propose the Affective-Recommender, a learning object recommendation system. In this chapter, they describe the system’s requirements and architecture, focusing on affect detection and the recommendation algorithm, an example of use case, and results of system implementation over Moodle LMS.
Addressing Fundamental Challenges in Mobile Cloud Computing with 4G LTE-Advanced
Authors: Fowler Scott
Published: October 2013

Today, mobile tools, such as smartphones and tablets, have become primary computing devices for many users. One mobile tool to satisfy this is the 4G network technology LTE (Long-Term Evolution)-Advanced. These mobile tools are resource-poor due to limited battery life. Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC) is intended to provide services to mobile users by supplementing the resource-paucity of mobile devices (i.e. off-loading tasks/data on the Internet and providing the resources to a local client on-demand). However, despite LTE-Advanced’s improved network quality, much needs to be done before MCC can reach its true potential. This chapter characterizes key challenges for deployment of MCC with 4G: device battery lifetime, latency, quality of service/experience, and handover. Statistical modeling is a powerful tool to address these issues. Once MCC with 4G network behavior is characterized, it is translated into the future development of innovative mobile technologies for a wide variety of new applications.
A Cognitive Access Framework for Security and Privacy Protection in Mobile Cloud Computing
Authors: Baldini Gianmarco , Stirparo Pasquale
Published: October 2013

Information systems and wireless communications are becoming increasingly present in the everyday life of citizens both from a personal and business point of view. A recent development in this context is Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC), which is the combination of Cloud Computing and pervasive mobile networks. Ensuring the preservation of privacy can be difficult in MCC. Therefore, this chapter provides an overview of the main challenges in ensuring privacy in MCC and surveys the most significant contributions from the research community. The second objective of the chapter is to introduce and describe a new framework for privacy protection based on the concepts of Virtual Object (VO) and Composite Virtual Object (CVO), where data are encapsulated and protected using a sticky policy approach and a role-based access model. The proposed iCore framework is compared to the privacy challenges described in the first objective.
The New Paradigms of the Internet Combined with Energy Management
Authors: Oliveira Joel G.
Published: October 2013

Earlier this century there was a crisis among the major Web companies. Berners-Lee started the concept of semantics for the Web. The large academic centers began to create tools to support the dissemination and research associated with their work; the collaborative networks emerged. Taking advantage of this new concept and seeking to attract new users to the Web, social networks began to emerge with a single purpose: to enable new users to customize data. Startups represent this new concept of the Web of the 21st century. In this sense, cloud computing, as well as energy efficiency should represent the biggest advances of this decade, enabling the growth of new market niches. This, along with the need for integration and mobility, is the object of study in this chapter.
A Proposal for Multidisciplinary Software for People with Autism
Authors: Guerra Eraldo , Furtado Felipe
Published: October 2013

This chapter is about the study of treatments for autistic children and interventions of entertainment games with the purpose of developing a technological solution in order to promote a better adaptation between the autistic children and treatment, consequently showing better results in a shorter period of time. The multidisciplinary software for Autism treatment is being developed. It is based on PECs, ABA, and TEACCH methods, and it uses ludic games and activity interventions. Before applying technology to autism treatment, a deep study about autistic children is made. This way, concepts such as customization and the use of Kinect, Mobile (WP7), and Cloud Computer technologies take part as a stimulator system, since they are responsible for intensifying cognitive development and reducing the patient’s excitement, aggressiveness, and irritability.