bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IT Governance and Process Maturity: A Multinational Field Study
Authors: Debreceny Roger S. , Gray Glen L.
Published: February 2013

This study investigates the relationship between key information technology (IT) governance characteristics and IT process maturity, as a measure of IT capability, in a multinational field study of 51 organizations. The study employs the IT processes defined within the COBIT framework as a model of the major processes that comprise IT capability. COBIT framework includes a of set maturity models based on the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) from the Software Engineering Institute (SEI). Data are collected on all aspects of IT governance at each organization as well as the level of process maturity for each process in COBIT. Maturity modeling in COBIT includes six attributes of process maturity. The state of alignment between the IT and non-IT functions at each organization and the level of national development are strongly associated with process maturity. These findings apply whether considering the overall level of process maturity or the level by domain or attribute.
The small Wastewater Treatment Plants – Hydrobotanical Systems in Environmental Protection
Authors: Pawęska Katarzyna , Kuczewski Krzysztof
Published: February 2013

The paper presents results of research concerning operating of five small wastewater treatment plants working in two different technologies: hydrobotanical wastewater treatment plant and constructed wetland. Each object was designed for the treatment of domestic sewage after preliminary mechanical treatment in a septic tank. Hydrobotanical wastewater treatment plants and one of constructed wetland beds were built for treating sewage produced in educational institutions and resort. In the article attention is paid to possibility of exceeding the maximum allowable concentration of pollutants for three main indicators of pollution: BOD5, COD, and total suspension. The reduction of these indices is required by the Regulation of the Minister of Environment [14] for wastewater treatment plants with PE < 2000. In addition, the paper presents the effects of wastewater treatment to reduce biogens. The best quality of outflow was reached by outflows from constructed wetland treatment plants. None of the observed objects fulfilled the requirements in terms of allowable concentrations for total suspension. The most effective were objects operating in technology of “constructed wetland”.
Diagnostic Utility of Adenosine Deaminase in Serum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Screening Lung Cancer in Western Iran
Authors: Nikkhoo Bahram , Sigari Naseh , Ghaderi Bayazid , Afkhamzadeh Abdolrahim , Azadi Namam-Ali , Mohsenpour Behzad , Fathi Fardin , Abdi Mohammad
Published: February 2013

Background: This study aimed to determine adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity as a possible screening tool in lung cancer patients.

Methods: Blood samples were collected from 30 subjects with positive pathological tests and 62 patients with negative pathological tests as a control group. The enzymatic activity of total ADA and its isoenzymes was determined.

Results: tADA and ADA2 isoenzyme activity was significantly higher in cancerous patients compared to benign controls in serum and BAL fluid. Using a cut-off level of respectively 35.22 U/L and 31.80 U/L for BAL total ADA and ADA2, sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 81% for total ADA and 95% and 98% for ADA2.

Conclusions: Adenosine deaminase may play important roles in the pathophysiology of lung cancer and because of its might be considered as a useful screening tool among the other markers in lung cancer diagnosis.
Application of umbelliferone molecularly imprinted polymer in analysis of plant samples
Authors: Hroboňová Katarína , Spevak Andrea , Spišská Ľubica , Lehotay Jozef , Čižmárik Jozef
Published: February 2013

The molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were synthesised and the influence of the type of porogen, the nature of sample solvent, and the binding capacity of material were tested by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Umbelliferone was used as the template for imprint formation. Methacrylic acid was used as the monomer and acetonitrile, ethanol, and chloroform as porogen. Non-imprinted polymers (NIPs) were prepared by the same procedure. The highest value of the specific binding capacity (269 μg of umbelliferone per 100 mg of polymer) was obtained for polymers prepared in chloroform as porogen and methanol/water (φ r = 1: 1) as the sample solvent. The group-selective MIP was used as sorbent for the SPE pre-treatment of umbelliferone from plant extracts prior to HPLC analysis. Analysis of the spiked samples showed good recoveries (> 77 %). The limit of detection, limit of determination, and repeatability of the method were also calculated.
Mechanism of α-acetyl-γ-butyrolactone synthesis
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Sheng-Wan , Li Mei-Ping , Ren Ying-Yu
Published: February 2013

The mechanism of α-acetyl-γ-butyrolactone (ABL) synthesis from γ-butyrolactone (GBL) and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) was explored by detecting the material changes involved and the enthalpies of formation of the synthons, products, and possible intermediates were calculated using the density functional theory. GBL forms a carbanion of γ-butyrolactone by losing an α-H under strongly alkaline conditions. ABL is then obtained via two reaction mechanisms. One of the reaction mechanisms involves direct reaction of the carbanion of GBL with EtOAc to produce ABL. The other involves the formation of a carbanion of α-(2-hydroxy-tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)-γ-butyrolactone through the reaction of two molecules of GBL, and the subsequent combination of this anion with EtOAc to produce ABL. ABL is thus formed through the above two kinds of competitive ester condensation reactions. It is unnecessary to take into account synthons’ local thickness, and their self-condensation under these conditions. Both reactions of the carbanion of GBL with EtOAc and GBL are exothermic, so the control of their reaction rate is the key to their security. Considering the reasons above, this work applied synthon as the solvent, and avoided environmental pollution by alkylbenzene; also, accidents such as red material and fire were avoided by specific surface area of sodium metal control. Effective isolation of the organic and aqueous phases was performed using the salting out method. Thus, an environmentally friendly, safe, simple, and efficient new method for the synthesis of ABL with the yield higher than 90 % has been established.
Synthesis of new aryl(hetaryl)-substituted tandospirone analogues with potential anxiolytic activity via reductive Heck type hydroarylations
Authors: Gunkara Omer , Sucu Bilgesu , Ocal Nuket , Kaufmann Dieter
Published: February 2013

Tandospirone (I), developed as an anxiolytic drug, is an aryl-piperazine compound that binds to both 5-HT1A and dopamine D4 receptors. Palladium-catalysed hydroarylation reactions of tandospirone analogues containing an oxygen bridge and 3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl or 2,3-dichlorophenyl groups were studied in order to find a new stereoselective access to a series of new exo-aryl(hetaryl)-substituted derivatives with potential biological activity.
Formalization of the Data Encryption Standard
Authors: Okazaki Hiroyuki , Shidama Yasunari
Published: February 2013

In this article we formalize DES (the Data Encryption Standard), that was the most widely used symmetric cryptosystem in the world. DES is a block cipher which was selected by the National Bureau of Standards as an official Federal Information Processing Standard for the United States in 1976 [15].
The Gödel Completeness Theorem for Uncountable Languages
Authors: Schlöder Julian J. , Koepke Peter
Published: February 2013

This article is the second in a series of two Mizar articles constituting a formal proof of the Gödel Completeness theorem [15] for uncountably large languages. We follow the proof given in [16]. The present article contains the techniques required to expand a theory such that the expanded theory contains witnesses and is negation faithful. Then the completeness theorem follows immediately.
The Properties of Sets of Temporal Logic Subformulas
Authors: Giero Mariusz
Published: February 2013

This is a second preliminary article to prove the completeness theorem of an extension of basic propositional temporal logic. We base it on the proof of completeness for basic propositional temporal logic given in [17]. We introduce two modified definitions of a subformula. In the former one we treat until-formula as indivisible. In the latter one, we extend the set of subformulas of until-formulas by a special disjunctive formula. This is needed to construct a temporal model. We also define an ordered positive-negative pair of finite sequences of formulas (PNP). PNPs represent states of a temporal model.
Basic Properties of Primitive Root and Order Function
Authors: Ma Na , Liang Xiquan
Published: February 2013

In this paper we defined the reduced residue system and proved its fundamental properties. Then we proved the basic properties of the order function. Finally, we defined the primitive root and proved its fundamental properties. Our work is based on [12], [8], and [11].
Contracting Mapping on Normed Linear Space
Authors: Miyajima Keiichi , Korniłowicz Artur , Shidama Yasunari
Published: February 2013

In this article, we described the contracting mapping on normed linear space. Furthermore, we applied that mapping to ordinary differential equations on real normed space. Our method is based on the one presented by Schwarz [29].
Cultivation of Chinese Silvergrass (Miscanthus Sinensis Anderss.) On the East Slovak Lowland as a Potential Source of Raw Material for Energy Purposes
Authors: Porvaz Pavol , Tóth Štefan , Marcin Andrej
Published: February 2013

A field trial with Miscanthus sinensis Anderss. was performed in Vysoká nad Uhom (average yearly temperature: 9.0°C, yearly precipitation: 584 mm) on Haplic fluvisol (WRB 2006) during 2006-2009. The average dry matter (DM) yield of the above- ground phytomass was 25.63 t/ha/year (excluding establish- ment year when yield was 4.81 t/ha) and had an increasing trend according to production years (14.13, 26.14 and 36.63 t/ha). We achieved in developing a trial stand in the third year of production when the field coverage of 10 thousand rhizomes being planted per hectare was over 80%; however, it can be used as a denser spacing for the earlier performance of stand with full production capability, which means plantation of 12-13 thousand plants per hectare. The average lower heating value of the organic sample of phytomass, as received (LHV) was 15.56 MJ/kg, and according to the trial years were 15.09; 15.80; 15.70; and 15.80 MJ/kg. The amount of total energy value of the produced phytomass per unit area (energy yield) was 1,284.989 GJ/ha, and 72.583, 223.254, 410.398, 578.754 GJ/ha, respectively, in the trial years. The energy yield was exclusively affected (r = 0.999), and the caloric value (LHV) was affected by phytomass yield (r = 0.739). Obtained emission characteristics and the concentration of selected volatiles, and remaining ash, ash content 3.46%, total water 10.65%, carbon 42.49%, hydrogen 5.20%, total sulphur 0.12%, nitrogen 0.55%, silicone 1.17% and chlorine 0.16% have supported the environmentally friendly introduction of Chinese silvergrass, as the energy crop is desirable for the targeted agroecological conditions of Slovakia.
Immobilization of Cadmium from Contaminated Sediment Using Cardboard Mill Sludge
Authors: Prica Miljana , Dalmacija Milena , Dalmacija Bozo , Pesic Vesna , Krcmar Dejan , Becelic Milena , Milosevic Rastko
Published: February 2013

Sludge from cardboard mill is most commonly landfilled, but it could also be recycled on-site into production or reused in some other way. In this study the use of sludge from cardboard mill as stabilizing agent in the stabilization treatment of cadmium polluted sediment was examined. The effectiveness of treatment and long-term leaching behavior of cadmium was evaluated by determining the cumulative percentage of cadmium leached, diffusion coefficients (De) and by applying different leaching tests (semi-dynamic test, toxicity characteristic leaching procedure, waste extraction test). In order to simulate the “worst case” leaching conditions, the semi-dynamic leaching test was modified using 0.014 M acetic acid (pH = 3.25) and humic acids solution (20 mg l-1 TOC) as leachants instead of deionized water. A diffusion-based model was used to elucidate the controlling leaching mechanisms. Applied treatment was effective in immobilizing cadmium irrespective of high availability in the untreated sample. The controlling leaching mechanism appeared to be diffusion, which indicates that a slow leaching of cadmium could be expected when the cardboard mill sludge as stabilization agent is applied.
Inclusion of grain legumes in rice based systems in the mid-hills of central Nepal
Authors: Khadka R , Paudel MN
Published: February 2013

Grain legumes are the important crops for improving soil condition and dietary status of humans. These crops could improve both soil and human health if grown in the prevailing farming systems. Keeping these view in mind, participatory varietals selection (PVS) on lentil (Lens esculents L.), mung bean (Vigna radiata ) and cowpea (Vigna ungiculuta) was conducted in the central mid hills (Ramechha and Sindhuli districts) of Nepal. Five varieties of lentil (ILL 7982, ILL 6829, ILL 7537, ILL 7723 and Simal), four of mung bean (VC 3960, Kalyan, Pratiksha and Farmers' Local) and cowpea (Surya, Prakash, IT 86-2089-5F and America) were tested at different locations of those districts under rice-wheat-fallow and rice-fallow-maize systems during 2007 to 2009. All of those varieties were tested in farmers’ field condition keeping farmers as a replication in RCB design with ten replications for each crop. Agronomic practices were performed by farmers as and when necessary. Among the tested varieties of lentil, ILL 7982 produced the highest grain yield of 1347 kg/ha whereas Sital produced the lowest grain yield of 1003kg/ha. Similarly for mung bean, the variety VC 3960 gave the highest grain yield of 1145kg/ha and Pratiksha produced the lowest grain yield of 975 kg/ha. Likewise, among the tested varieties of cowpea, America gave the highest pod yield of 5320 kg/ha and Prakash gave the lowest pod yield of 3400 kg/ha. These varieties were identified suitable for further promotion in different cropping patterns such as rice-lentil- maize, rice-maize/mung bean, ricemaize/ cowpea systems. Simple economic analysis of the cropping systems under question indicated that inclusion of legumes in the systems seemed highly lucrative compared to maize and wheat. Therefore, it is anticipated that integration of legumes in the systems could enrich soil as well as it would be beneficial to farmers because of nutritional status attractive price in the market of these crops. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v1i0.7543 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 1: 2010 pp.61-66
Nitrogen management in zero-tillage cum surface seeded wheat at Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Dahal KR , Adhikari BB , Basnet KB
Published: February 2013

An experiment was conducted at the experiment field of the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal in 1999/2000 to assess the effect of mulch and the timing of nitrogen application on the performance of surface seeded wheat crop under zero-tillage condition. The experiment consisted of eight treatments that included 1/2 dose of N at sowing and 1/2 at crown root initiation (CRI) stage; 1/2 dose of N at 11 days after sowing and 1/2 at CRI; whole dose of N at CRI stage; and 1/2 dose of N at CRI and 1/2 40 days after sowing, with and without mulch using rice straw @ 4 ton/ha. The result showed that mulch was effective in conserving soil moisture, suppressing weeds and enhancing yield and yield attributing parameters. Similarly, application of nitrogen at two splits i.e. 1/2 dose of N at CRI and 1/2 at 40 days after sowing with mulch produced significantly higher grain yield (4547 kg/ha) whereas significantly lower grain yield (2267 kg/ha) was obtained from the treatment of 1/2 dose of N at sowing and 1/2 at CRI without mulch. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v1i0.7547 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 1: 2010 pp.85-93
Factors affecting fertilizer use efficiency in dry season paddy production in Makawanpur district, mid hill, Nepal
Authors: Thapa M
Published: February 2013

On-farm assessment of factors defining fertilizer use efficiency (FUE) for dry season paddy production was carried out through field survey and applying a two-step approach. The research was carried out in Makawanpur district, central mid hill, Nepal for the early rice (Chaite season) cropping season 2000. Data on land and land use aspects and yield record were collected through interview and field observation. Data entry, coding and normalization procedure were followed by stepwise regression analysis. In step one, the general regression model for causes of actual yield variations was derived; it included some land and management parameters that satisfactorily explained the variability of actual yields (adjusted R2 of 65 %). This model was used to calculate the adjusted yields by removing the impacts of non-fertilizer related variables from the actual yield data. In order to evaluate aspects of fertilizer use efficiency (step two), a stepwise regression produced a highly significant (adjusted R2 of 45%) result. The important factors defining FUE were the relationship between many parameters such as quantity of 1st N topdressing x soil pH, basal N x FYM, 1st N top dressing x good drainage condition, 2nd N top dressing x insect attack during tillering-flowering stage, 2nd N topdressing x soil pH, basal N x soil pH, FYM x soil pH, 1st N topdressing x FYM and 2nd N topdressing x zinc deficiency. Thus the study concluded that FUE is one of the critical issues that hindered sustainable paddy production. The timing and quantity of fertilizer especially N application, source of fertilizer, nutrient content combination, and their interactions with land and land use aspects were crucial elements for getting optimum response to fertilizer. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v1i0.7552 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 1: 2010 pp.123-133
Knowledge management tools of rice technology in Nepal
Authors: Tripathi BP
Published: February 2013

Technology plays an important role for enhancing production and productivity. In Nepal, the apex research body, Nepal Agricultural Research council (NARC) is mandated for generating technology whereas Department of Agriculture Extension is responsible for disseminating rice technologies to the farmers’ fields through different channels of the system. Different International and National Non-Government Organization (INGOs/NGOs) are also involved in dissemination of rice technologies as well. Although technologies are disseminating however, adoption rate of rice seems to be low. Awareness is an issue to adopt the right technology. Knowledge Management Tools (KMT) followed for rice in Nepal are fact sheets, farmers’ field school, printed media, radio, television, toll free services, training and visit, and mini-kit distribution. Therefore, to find out the gap between adoption and disseminating technology, a study on KMT was carried out. Informant survey was launched to collect the data covering four regions of Nepal taking 2 districts in each region during 2010. Mini-kit distribution to the farmers, technologies through farmers’ group and training to the farmers were the most effective for transferring rice technologies, which were confirmed by 49 (62.9%), 46 (59.0%) and 41 (52.8%) interviewed farmers, respectively. Among the electronic media, FM radio and radio were most effective tools for disseminating rice technologies, which were shown by 33 (42.3%) and 23 (29.5%) farmers respectively. Among the printed media, booklet and news paper were most effective for transferring rice technologies as confirmed by 21 (27.0%) and 13 (16.7%) farmers respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v2i0.7518 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 2: 2011 pp.24-30
On-farm evaluation of upland rice genotypes at Bajhang district, mid western hills of Nepal
Authors: Ojha BR
Published: February 2013

A set of eight rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes in upland condition were evaluated in Bhajhang district. They were compared with popular local and standard check varieties of upland rice with an objective of selecting them to be suited to Bhajhang and similar agro-ecological domains. The genotypes included were; Tauliya, Chhomroung, Kalo Nathre, Rato Ghaiya, Pakhe Jhinuwa, Radha- 32, IR78877-208-B-1-2, and CT- 65110-24-1-1. They were evaluated in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replication at Rayal VDC-3, Deura, Bajhang, Nepal during 2010 upland paddy growing season. Highly significant variation was observed for traits recorded. Grain yield ranged from 2.1 kg/plot (Radha- 32 and Rato Ghaiya) to 0.52 kg/plot (Pakhe Jhinuwa). Radha- 32 and Rato Ghaiya were found superior to Local checks. Likewise, significant variation was also observed in the morpho-physiological traits such as days to anthesis and days to maturity which varied from 100 days (Tauliya) to 114 days (CT 65110-24-1-1) and 126 days (Tauliya) to 148 days (CT 65110-24-1-1), respectively. Genotype Tauliya was early maturing while CT 65110-24-1-1 was late maturing one. There was a variation in grain filling period which ranged from 24 days (Pakhe Jhinuwa) to 36 days (Chhomroung and IR 78877-208-B-1-2) after anthesis to physiological maturity. Similarly, significant variation was also recorded for plant height, panicle length, and peduncle length. Highly significant positive correlation (r = 0.85, 0.69, 0.54 and 0.83) was found for panicle length, peduncle length, grain filling period and numbers of grains/panicle with grain yield. Likewise, significant positive correlation was found between days to maturity and grain filling duration (0.81), numbers of grains/panicle and panicle length (0.81), 1000 seeds weight, and grain filling duration (0.53). The result of the study revealed that Radha- 32 and Rato Ghaiya were found as the best genotypes so far as farmers and breeders are concerned in the tested site of Bajhang.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v2i0.7525 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 2: 2011 pp.102-110
Effect of human urine as fertilizer on crop production
Authors: Upreti HK , Shrestha P , Paudel P
Published: February 2013

Nutrient cycling in the soil-plant ecosystem is an essential component of sustainable agriculture. Human excreta though have high nutrient value is being neglected and simply dumped as waste. Out of the human excreta, urine has high nitrogenous fertilizer value than feces. Hence by separating urine in ECOSAN toilet, it can be of great use in fulfilling the fertilizer demand of the country. The main objective of this study is to assess the effect of human urine on crop yield and to find out the appropriate urine dose and time of application to different crops. The study shows that urine can act as effective as a chemical fertilizer and can be used as an efficient source of plant nutrients. In general, 2-3 splits urine application in addition with phosphorus and potash fertilizer gave the comparable result with that of chemical fertilizer. Though there is no statistical difference in production of the crops, the average yield was found to be higher in the application of chemical fertilizer in all crops except in wheat. From the study, it can be concluded that any crops can be grown using urine as a fertilizer without significant reduction in the yield if nutrient losses during handling could minimize. The study recommends the further study in a long-term urine application trial to verify the obtained result and also to observe the effect of urine on soil properties and plant health as well as on the efficacy of urine along with compost in crop production. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v2i0.7532 Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 2: 2011 pp.168-172
Keynote address at the 7th National Agronomists’ Workshop 2011
Authors: Paudel MN
Published: February 2013

7th National Agronomists’ Workshop 2011, Chaitra 14-15, 2067 (March 28-29, 2011), Jointly organized by : Crop Development Directorate (CDD), Department of Agriculture (DoA) and Agronomy Society of Nepal (ASoN). Theme : Agronomy for food and seed security. Venue : Training Hall DoA, Hariharbhawan.
Is Audio Visual Method Better than Traditional for Medical Students? - A Better Survey Report
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana , Haque Md Nazmul , Ahmed Naser , Ahmad Reza , Ali Md Imran , Ara Rowsan , Rahman Mufti Munsurar , Bhattacharjee Swapna , Bhattacharjee Shekhar , Rafiqueuddin AKM
Published: February 2013

Objectives: Different teaching aids are advocated in the medical colleges for delivery of lectures such as power point presentation, blackboard, transparency sheet, overhead projectors, extempore and lecture sheets .The aim of our study was to compare the more acceptable teaching methods between the students of Dhaka Medical College and Enam Medical College. Materials and Methods: Total one hundred students were selected from fourth year in each medical college. They were asked to fill in a fourteen item questionnaire about their perception of five lecture delivery methods. Questionnaire was properly explained. The results were analyzed separately to find out any differences between preferences of teaching methods in both medical colleges. Results: In DMC 50% students preferred traditional blackboard method ,25% PowerPoint presentations, 5% both blackboard and PowerPoint, 16% extempore and 4% lecture sheet .On the other hand, in EMC, 53% mentioned PowerPoint presentation as most acceptable, 38% blackboard, 5% combined blackboard and PowerPoint and 4% extempore. Some important comments were recorded which could be valuable for the medical teachers. Conclusion: The study showed that students of DMC clearly prefer traditional blackboard method rather than other teaching aids, whereas students of EMC prefer PowerPoint presentation. The study does not bring out any evidence based superiority of any lecture delivery method. It appears that any teaching aid can be appropriate and effective if the teachers are properly trained. This highlights the need for formal training in teaching technologies for good presentation and thus motivate the students. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v21i2.13612 Bangladesh J Medicine 2010; 21: 60-64
Comparable Efficacy of Terbinafine and Itraconazole in the Treatment of Tinea Pedis
Authors: Wahab Md Abdul , Uddin Mohammad Jamal , Hassan Biswas Shahen , Islam Md Zafrul , Bhuiyan Ishrat , Siddique Mohammad Rahmat Ullah
Published: February 2013

Background: Tinea pedis (athlets foot) is the most common fungal infection. Relapse is common in tinea pedis and may be result of recurrence following inadequate treatment or reinfection. Objective: To evaluate the comparable efficacy of terbinafine and itraconazole in the treatment of tinea pedis. Methods: 120 patients of tinea pedis confirmed by KOH microscopy were included in the study. The study was carried out in three different Hospitals and Private Chambers for a period of 3 years from July 2006 to June 2009. Mean age of the patients was 40.28±10.23. The patients were devided into 2 equal group:A & B. Group- A was given terbinafine 250 mg/day and group-B was given intraconazole 200 mg/day for 2 weeks. Results: Follow up 2 weeks after cessation of therapy revealed clinical and mycological cure of 93.3% in terbinafine group and 86.6% in itraconazole group. Conclusion: Efficacy analysis revealed that terbinafine is superior than itraconazole in the treatment of tinea pedis (P value 0.224). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v21i2.13615 Bangladesh J Medicine 2010; 21: 74-79
Severe Microcytic Anaemia due to Chrohn's Disease - An Uncommon Presentation
Authors: Azad Md Abul Kalam , Quader Monzoor , Rahaman Mohammad Ferdous Ur , Rahim Md Abdur , Khanam Aklima , Irshadullah Naseeb Mohammad
Published: February 2013

Crohns disease is an uncommon disease. Most common presentation is abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. It may present as subacute or even acute intestinal obstruction. Crohns disease is very rare in Bangladesh. Here we report a case of Crohns disease where the initial presentation was severe microcytic hypochromic anaemia. Who had repeated blood transfusion for one year. Initially cause was not detected. Later on he presented with subacute intestinal obstruction. After all diagnostic work up no definitive diagnosis could be found. So laparotomy was done in Bangabandhu Shiekh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Histopathology report was suggestive of Crohns disease and he was on mesalazine with significant clinical improvement. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v21i2.13620 Bangladesh J Medicine 2010; 21: 101-104
How Accurately Physicians Measure Blood Pressure - An Observational Study in Enam Medical College and Hospital, Savar
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana , Haque Md Nazmul , Ali Md Imran , Alam Mohammad Mahbubul , Rafqueuddin AKM
Published: February 2013

Objective: The key to blood Pressure (BP) control is good BP measurement. If BP measurements are not done accurately and reliably, there is a potential for great harm and great cost. Measuring blood pressure is a routine procedure but errors are frequently committed during recording. The aim of the study was to look at the prevalent practices in the institute regarding BP recording. Methods and Materials: This study was conducted in the department of Medicine, Surgery and Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Enam Medical College, Savar. This is an prospective observational study performed amongst 50 doctors in EMCH. Doctors in each three departments were observed by one observer in each department during the act of BP recording. The observer was well versed with the guidelines issued by British Hypertension Society (BHS) and the deviations from the standard set of guidelines were noted. The errors were defined as deviations from these guidelines. The results were recorded as percentage of doctors committing these errors and analysis of results was done manually with percentage and number. Results: In our study, 100% doctors used aneroid type sphygmomanometer. Ninety percent of apparatus were without error. Ninety six percent of the BP cuff was of standard size. Twenty two percent of the doctors did not let the patient rest before recording BP. None of them recorded BP in both arms. In outpatient setting, 70% recorded blood pressure in sitting position and 30% in supine position. In 44% patients where BP was recorded in sitting position BP apparatus was below the level of heart and 60% did not have their arm supported. Eighty four percent did not use palpatory method before checking the BP by auscultation. Sixty percent lowered the BP at a rate of more than 2 mm/s. Seventy six percent recorded BP only once and 75 % of the rest reinflated the cuff without completely deflating and allowing rest before a second reading was obtained. Conclusion: Although the assessment of BP is the most cost-effective procedure in medicine, it is rarely performed according to guidelines. Efforts should be taken to improve the practice of BP measurement which would have a major impact on the health of the population. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v22i1.13594 Bangladesh J Medicine 2011; 22: 12-16
A Study of Hypoalbuminaemia in Chronic Liver Disease and its Correlation with Development of Esophageal Varices
Authors: Hossain SF , Islam QT , Siddiqui MR , Hossain A , Jahan N , Rahman YU , Iqbal MJ
Published: February 2013

Background: The aim and objective of this study was to evaluate relationship of serum albumin and esophageal varices in chronic liver disease (CLD) admitted in the medicine unit and gastroenterology department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Method: In this cross-sectional study, a total number of 100 randomly selected, clinically diagnosed patients of chronic liver disease were studied from June 2010 to November 2010 (6 months). All patients were assessed as per Child-Pugh class and had full blood count, HBsAg, Anti-HCV antibodies by ELISA, abdominal ultrasound and Endoscopy of upper gastrointestinal tract. Patients were divided into Group A (serum albumin <3.5 gm%) and Group B (3.55). Result: Seventy-three male (73%) and twenty seven female patients (27%)] with age range of 16 to 75 years were evaluated. Out of 100 patients 24% were in between 46-55 years age group. 63% patient fall in child Pugh class A group, 32% fall in child Pugh class B & 5% fall in child Pugh class C. Mean Serum albumin was 3.8 gm%, (range 2.4-4.9). Esophageal varices (EV) were present in 32 patients (32%) and absent in 68 patients (68%). Group A had 29 patients (29% of the total) with 18 patients (62.06%) having EV. Group B had 71 patients (71% of the total) with 14 patients (19.71%) having EV. Sensitivity of hypoalbuminaemia as a marker of EV was 56% and specificity 83.8%, positive predictive value 62.06% and negative predictive value 80.2% and Odds ratio was 6.6. P value is <0.001. Conclusion: In Group A that is hypoalbuminaemia (<3.5 gm%), the incidence of Esophageal varices was more than Group B that is albumin level (>3.5gm%). Hypoalbuminemia is a good surrogate marker for the presence of esophageal varices in CLD. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v22i1.13595 Bangladesh J Medicine 2011; 22: 17-20
Dyselectrolytaemia in Acute Stroke Patients, an Observational Study
Authors: Siddiqui MR , Islam QT , Haque MA , Iqbal MJ , Hossain A , Rahman YU , Mahbub MS , Sazzad AA
Published: February 2013

Background: There are many studies on stroke, its associated conditions and their effect on stroke patients outcome, but a few studies on dyselectrolytaemia in stroke patients has been done in our country, even outside. Method: a total number of 100 randomly selected, clinically and CT proven acute stroke patients were studied at medicine units of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Association of electrolytes imbalance among acute stroke patient were identified and correlated. Result: Out of 100 patients 29% were in between 51-60 years age group & 72% were male and 28% were female patients. Majority 53% patients had Ischaemic stroke, 45% Intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) and only 2% had Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). 53% of total acute stroke patient had dyselectrolytaemia. Among 100 acute stroke patients 62.22% of haemorrhagic stroke (p<0.05) & 43.39% of ischaemic stroke (p>0.05) patients had dyselectrolytaemia. Total 36% of all stroke patients had serum sodium imbalance & 31% had serum potassium imbalance. In haemorrhagic stroke & ischaemic stroke patients, hyponatraemia (17% & 13%), hypernatraemia (1% & 3%), hypokalaemia (19% & 11%), hyperkalaemia (0% & 1%), hypochloraemia (9% & 6%) respectively with found. Conclusion: In haemorrhagic stroke, the incidence of dyselectrolytaemia was more than ischaemic stroke and which were mostly hyponatraemia and hypokalaemia. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v22i2.13586 Bangladesh J Medicine 2011; 22: 30-34
Evaluation of antidiabetic activity in Corallocarpus epigaeus rhizomes
Authors: Gnananath Kattamanchi , Reddy Kontham Ramakanth , Kumar Gudur Pavan , Krishna Bheemanapally , Reddy Karka Srinivas , Kumar Avvari Sanjeeva
Published: February 2013

From these results it can be understood that plant extract showing its pharmacological action on diabetes between the time intervals of 1-2 hr after its administration. This is exactly what the action that is being observed from the standard Glibenclamide group which also shown its action at its 1-2 hr of administration to the animals. Here the statistically significant action of the higher dose of plant extract can be compared with that of the standard Glibenclamide group. From these results it can be understood that the plant extract is capable of inhibiting the elevation of blood glucose level to the extent of the action that has been shown by the standard Glibenclamide group. Particularly at the time interval of 2-4 hr both the Glibenclamide and plant extract at its high dose group that is 400 mg/kg has been significantly inhibited the elevation of the blood glucose levels in the animals.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v2i3.13581 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, February 2013, 2(3): 53-56
Bazin and Photography in the Twenty-First Century: Poverty of Ontology?
Authors: Stafford Andy
Published: February 2013

According to André Rouillé (2005) the search for photography's ontology is both fruitless and pointless. Six decades after André Bazin's seminal essay, ‘The Ontology of the Photographic Image’ (1945), there is a concerted attempt to remove photography from the ‘reliquary’ of death in which Bazin had (seemingly) locked it. Preferring ‘genesis’ to ‘result’, Bazin had suggested that photography benefited from an ‘essential objectivity’ and that it was close to being a ‘natural phenomenon’: for the first time in history, representation of the external world emerges, mechanically, without human intervention. For Rouillé however, this is a ‘poverty of ontology’, a theory of the ‘index’ based on Peirce erroneously attached to a semiotics of the photographic image. So what happens to the photograph's temporal dimension, crucial to Bazin's definition, if we reject the image as record of the ‘that-has-been’ (Barthes)? Can we still use Bazin's ontology in the twenty-first century?
The Desperation of Deianira: Heroides 9 and Early Modern Translation
Authors: Rowland Richard
Published: February 2013

This essay charts the ways in which the story of Hercules and his wife/killer Deianira was received in early modern Europe. In particular, it traces the reception history of the ninth of Ovid's Heroides, in which Deianira writes a letter of complaint, about her husband's sexual violence, and her disastrous attempt to reclaim his affections. Responses to Ovid's poem ranged from outrage – male poets angrily refuted Deianira's accusations – to vernacular translations that, in the hands of the Tudor writer George Turberville, sympathetically conveyed the anguish of the abused wife, but in the hands of Turberville's seventeenth-century successors, muted or silenced Deianira's complaints. The essay locates this reception history in the context of debates about domesticity, sexual (mis)conduct, and female literacy.
Early Results of Three-Year Monitoring of Red Wood Ants’ Behavioral Changes and Their Possible Correlation with Earthquake Events
Authors: Berberich Gabriele , Berberich Martin , Grumpe Arne , Wöhler Christian , Schreiber Ulrich
Published: February 2013

Short-term earthquake predictions with an advance warning of several hours or days are currently not possible due to both incomplete understanding of the complex tectonic processes and inadequate observations. Abnormal animal behaviors before earthquakes have been reported previously, but create problems in monitoring and reliability. The situation is different with red wood ants (RWA; Formica rufa-group (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)). They have stationary mounds on tectonically active, gas-bearing fault systems. These faults may be potential earthquake areas. For three years (2009–2012), two red wood ant mounds (Formica rufa-group), located at the seismically active Neuwied Basin (Eifel, Germany), have been monitored 24/7 by high-resolution cameras with both a color and an infrared sensor. Early results show that ants have a well-identifiable standard daily routine. Correlation with local seismic events suggests changes in the ants’ behavior hours before the earthquake: the nocturnal rest phase and daily activity are suppressed, and standard daily routine does not resume until the next day. At present, an automated image evaluation routine is being applied to the more than 45,000 hours of video streams. Based on this automated approach, a statistical analysis of the ants’ behavior will be carried out. In addition, other parameters (climate, geotectonic and biological), which may influence behavior, will be included in the analysis.
Comparison of Health Status and Health Care Services Utilization between Migrants and Natives of the Same Ethnic Origin—The Case of Hong Kong
Authors: Liu Su , Hu Catherine , Mak Selene
Published: February 2013

Based on the 2009 Thematic Household Survey in Hong Kong, this study compared health status and utilization of health care services in Hong Kong between migrants from Mainland China and natives. Overall, Mainland migrants reported lower socioeconomic conditions, worse health status, and less health care services utilization than the natives. After controlling for socio-demographic factors, we found that the migrants were 1.2 times more likely to report fair or poor health and 0.78 times less likely to report having a usual source of care, compared with the natives. Mainland migrants also had fewer physician visits and relied more on the public sector. Within the migrant group, those who had language advantage had more visits, and the recent arrivals who stayed in Hong Kong for three years or less had fewer visits and were far less likely to have a usual source of care. The findings underscore migration as an important social determinant of health in Hong Kong. A combination of targeted social and health policies is needed to help Mainland migrants better integrate into society and to improve their access to care. Programs should be tailored to address varying needs from different subgroups among migrants.
A Novel Peroxidase CanPOD Gene of Pepper Is Involved in Defense Responses to Phytophtora capsici Infection as well as Abiotic Stress Tolerance
Authors: Wang Jun-E , Liu Ke-Ke , Li Da-Wei , Zhang Ying-Li , Zhao Qian , He Yu-Mei , Gong Zhen-Hui
Published: February 2013

Peroxidases are involved in many plant processes including plant defense responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. We isolated a novel peroxidase gene CanPOD from leaves of pepper cultivar A3. The full-length gene has a 1353-bp cDNA sequence and contains an open reading frame (ORF) of 975-bp, which encodes a putative polypeptide of 324 amino acids with a theoretical protein size of 34.93 kDa. CanPOD showed diverse expression levels in different tissues of pepper plants. To evaluate the role of CanPOD in plant stress responses, the expression patterns of CanPOD were examined using Real-Time RT-PCR. The results indicated that CanPOD was significantly induced by Phytophtora capsici. Moreover, CanPOD was also up-regulated in leaves after salt and drought stress treatments. In addition, CanPOD expression was strongly induced by signaling hormones salicylic acid (SA). In contrast, CanPOD was not highly expressed after treatment with cold. Meanwhile, in order to further assess the role of gene CanPOD in defense response to P. capsici attack, we performed a loss-of-function experiment using the virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) technique in pepper plants. In comparison to the control plant, the expression levels of CanPOD were obviously decreased in CanPOD-silenced pepper plants. Furthermore, we analyzed the effect of P. capsici on detached-leaves and found that the CanPOD-silenced plant leaves were highly susceptible to P. capsici infection. Taken together, our results suggested that CanPOD is involved in defense responses to P. capsici infection as well as abiotic stresses in pepper plants.
Semiconductor Nanocrystals as Light Harvesters in Solar Cells
Authors: Etgar Lioz
Published: February 2013

Photovoltaic cells use semiconductors to convert sunlight into electrical current and are regarded as a key technology for a sustainable energy supply. Quantum dot-based solar cells have shown great potential as next generation, high performance, low-cost photovoltaics due to the outstanding optoelectronic properties of quantum dots and their multiple exciton generation (MEG) capability. This review focuses on QDs as light harvesters in solar cells, including different structures of QD-based solar cells, such as QD heterojunction solar cells, QD-Schottky solar cells, QD-sensitized solar cells and the recent development in organic-inorganic perovskite heterojunction solar cells. Mechanisms, procedures, advantages, disadvantages and the latest results obtained in the field are described. To summarize, a future perspective is offered.
Kocurin, the True Structure of PM181104, an Anti-Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Thiazolyl Peptide from the Marine-Derived Bacterium Kocuria palustris
Authors: Martín Jesús , Da S. Sousa Thiciana , Crespo Gloria , Palomo Sara , González Ignacio , Tormo José , De la Cruz Mercedes , Anderson Matthew , Hill Russell , Vicente Francisca , Genilloud Olga , Reyes Fernando
Published: February 2013

A new thiazolyl peptide, kocurin (1), was isolated from culture broths of a marine-derived Kocuria palustris. Its structural elucidation was accomplished using a combination of spectroscopic and chemical methods, including HRMS, extensive 1D and 2D NMR analysis, MS/MS fragmentation, and chemical degradation and Marfey’s analysis of the resulting amino acid residues. The structure herein reported corrects that previously assigned to PM181104 (3). Kocurin displayed activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with MIC values in the submicromolar range.
Dendrimers for siRNA Delivery
Authors: Biswas Swati , Torchilin Vladimir
Published: February 2013

Since the discovery of the “starburst polymer”, later renamed as dendrimer, this class of polymers has gained considerable attention for numerous biomedical applications, due mainly to the unique characteristics of this macromolecule, including its monodispersity, uniformity, and the presence of numerous functionalizable terminal groups. In recent years, dendrimers have been studied extensively for their potential application as carriers for nucleic acid therapeutics, which utilize the cationic charge of the dendrimers for effective dendrimer-nucleic acid condensation. siRNA is considered a promising, versatile tool among various RNAi-based therapeutics, which can effectively regulate gene expression if delivered successfully inside the cells. This review reports on the advancements in the development of dendrimers as siRNA carriers.
Pollen Tube Growth and Self-Compatibility in Almond
Authors: Socias i Company Rafel , Kodad Ossama , Fernández i Martí Àngel , Alonso José
Published: February 2013

Although pollen tube growth has been an important criterion for self-compatibility evaluation in almond, there is not a clear-cut separation between positive and negative growth of pollen tubes in the different genotypes. The examination of pollen tube growth after selfing almond seedlings has allowed establishing different levels of compatibility, but not a clear-cut separation between self-compatible (SC) and self-incompatible (SI) genotypes, related to the presence of pseudo-self-compatibility in almond. Consequently, a relationship between pollen tube growth and self-compatibility in almond may be established for evaluating the seedlings in breeding programs.
Sparse Frequency Diverse MIMO Radar Imaging for Off-Grid Target Based on Adaptive Iterative MAP
Authors: He Xuezhi , Liu Changchang , Liu Bo , Wang Dongjin
Published: February 2013

The frequency diverse multiple-input-multiple-output (FD-MIMO) radar synthesizes a wideband waveform by transmitting and receiving multiple frequency signals simultaneously. For FD-MIMO radar imaging, conventional imaging methods based on Matched Filter (MF) cannot enjoy good imaging performance owing to the few and incomplete wavenumber-domain coverage. Higher resolution and better imaging performance can be obtained by exploiting the sparsity of the target. However, good sparse recovery performance is based on the assumption that the scatterers of the target are positioned at the pre-discretized grid locations; otherwise, the performance would significantly degrade. Here, we propose a novel approach of sparse adaptive calibration recovery via iterative maximum a posteriori (SACR-iMAP) for the general off-grid FD-MIMO radar imaging. SACR-iMAP contains three loop stages: sparse recovery, off-grid errors calibration and parameter update. The convergence and the initialization of the method are also discussed. Numerical simulations are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.