bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refining our knowledge of the Messinian salinity crisis records in the offshore domain through multi-site seismic analysis
Authors: Lofi Johanna , Sage Françoise , Déverchère Jacques , Loncke Lies , Maillard Agnès , Gaullier Virginie , Thinon Isabelle , Gillet Hervé , Guennoc Pol , Gorini Christian
Published: December 2011

The Messinian salinity crisis (MSC) [Hsü et al., 1973] has deeply shaped the Mediterranean landscape and triggered large sedimentary deposits (evaporites and clastics) in the deep basins within a short time span. Until recently, the MSC has mainly been analyzed independently, either through outcrops located onshore (e.g. Morocco, Cyprus, Spain, Sardinia, Italy) or through marine seismic profiles in the deep offshore. Each approach bears its own limitations: (1) on the one hand, land outcrops refer to incomplete Messinian successions that are geometrically disconnected from the offshore Messinian deposits owing to tectonics (e.g. Apennines) and/or because they accumulated at an early stage of the crisis in shallow marginal basins (e.g. Spain); (2) on the other hand, seismic profiles from the upper margins down to the deep basins allow to image and explore the entire MSC event as a continuous process, but with a lower resolution and with a lack of stratigraphical and lithological control, in the absence of full recovery of scientific boreholes.

We present here a synthesis of a set of modern geophysical data over the Mediterranean and Black seas allowing to image the Messinian markers (erosion surfaces, depositional units and their bounding surfaces) much better than previously and to study the spatio-temporal organisation of these markers from the inner-shelves down to the bathyal plains. The results from thirteen areas located offshore are compared, with common charts and nomenclatures. The comparative and multi-site approach developed here allows to analyse the record of the MSC on margin segments and basins that depict various structural, geodynamical and geological settings, to fix a number of local influencing factors (tectonics, subsidence, inherited topography, sedimentary fluxes...) and to partly assess their influence in facies and geometrical variations of the MSC units. We are thus able to extract from our analysis some recurrent signals related to the MSC ss., allowing us to discuss: (1) the amplitude and modalities of base-level changes during the MSC; (2) the depositional modalities of the MSC units in the deep basins; (3) the location of the erosion product of the margins and to emphasise (4) the major differences between the eastern and western Mediterranean basins.
Effect of solution chemistry and operating conditions on the nanofiltration of acid dyes by a nanocomposite membrane
Authors: Akbari A. , Homayoonfal M. , Jabbari V.
Published: December 2011

A composite nanofiltration membrane was developed by a poly(acrylic acid) in situ ultraviolet (UV) graft polymerization process using an ultrafiltration polysulfone membrane as a porous support, by a phase inversion method. SEM images showed that the PSf membranes had numerous finger-like pores. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed that the roughness of the surface was reduced by an increase in UV irradiation times. The rejections of sodium chloride and sodium sulfate were moderate and declined with the increase of concentration. We observed that by increasing UV irradiation time and nanofiltration pressure applied, retention of dyes was enhanced and in the most irradiated membrane (M-4 membrane) at 4 bars, color removal with a high rejection of about 99.80% was achieved. It was found that the separation efficiency of dyes in the mixture of salt and dyes decreased with the salt concentration due to a decrease in the Donnan effect. It was also found that by varying the pH, the membrane surface and the dyes' charges are changed, which meant that the membrane surface and dyes had different interactions at various pHs.
Antimicrobial resistance of fecal indicators in disinfected wastewater
Authors: Luczkiewicz A. , Jankowska K. , Bray R. , Kulbat E. , Quant B. , Sokolowska A. , Olanczuk-Neyman K.
Published: December 2011

The main objective of the study was to assess the potential of three systems (UV irradiation, ozonation, and micro/ultrafiltration) operated in a pilot scale in removal of antimicrobial-resistant fecal bacteria from secondary effluent of the local wastewater treatment plant (700,000 population equivalent). The effectiveness of the processes was analysed using the removal ratio of fecal indicators (Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp.). The susceptibility of fecal indicators to antimicrobial agents important in human therapy was examined. Resistance to nitrofurantoin and erythromycin was common among enterococci and followed by resistance to fluoroquinolones and tetracycline. Resistance to high-level aminoglycosides and glycopeptides was also observed. E. coli isolates were most frequently resistant to penicillins and tetracycline. The extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli was detected once, after ozonation. Substantial attention should be paid to the E. coli and enterococci resistant to three or more chemical classes of antimicrobials (MAR), which in general constituted up to 15 and 49% of the tested isolates, respectively. Although the applied methods were effective in elimination of fecal indicators (removal efficiency up to 99.99%), special attention has to be paid to the application of sufficient disinfection and operation conditions to avoid selection of antimicrobial resistant bacteria.
Relationship between turbidity and total suspended solids concentration within a combined sewer system
Authors: Hannouche A. , Chebbo G. , Ruban G. , Tassin B. , Lemaire B. J. , Joannis C.
Published: December 2011

This article confirms the existence of a strong linear relationship between turbidity and total suspended solids (TSS) concentration. However, the slope of this relation varies between dry and wet weather conditions, as well as between sites. The effect of this variability on estimating the instantaneous wet weather TSS concentration is assessed on the basis of the size of the calibration dataset used to establish the turbidity – TSS relationship. Results obtained indicate limited variability both between sites and during dry weather, along with a significant inter-event variability. Moreover, turbidity allows an evaluation of TSS concentrations with an acceptable level of accuracy for a reasonable rainfall event sampling campaign effort.
Ethinylestradiol removal in a conventional and a simultaneous nitrification–denitrification membrane bioreactor
Authors: Paetkau M. , Yang W. , Cicek N.
Published: December 2011

The removal of a synthetic estrogen 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) was investigated in submerged membrane bioreactors (MBRs) with simultaneous nitrification–denitrification (SND) and conventional nitrification. The influent EE2 concentration was 500 ng/L as EE2. Using a yeast estrogen screen test, the conventional-MBR (C-MBR) and SND MBR (SND-MBR) removed 57 and 58% of the estrogenic activity (EA) respectively; there was no significant difference in their removal efficiencies. Biodegradation was the dominant removal mechanism for both reactors with KBIO coefficients of 1.5 ± 0.6 and 1.6 ± 0.4 day−1 for the C-MBR and the SND-MBR respectively. Sorption to solid particles removed approximately 1% of influent EA in each reactor; the particle partitioning coefficient, KD, was calculated to be 0.21 ± 0.07 L/(g MLSS) for the C-MBR and 0.27 ± 0.1 L/(g MLSS) for the SND-MBR. These findings suggest that conditions favoring SND in MBRs have no significant impact on EA reduction.
A metabolic network of a phosphate-accumulating organism provides new insights into enhanced biological phosphorous removal
Authors: Bordel Sergio
Published: December 2011

Here we present a metabolic network representing the central carbon metabolism as well as the synthesis of polyhydroxyalcanohates and the polyphosphate accumulation mechanisms of the bacterium Candidatus Accumulibacter phosphatis, which was previously identified from metagenomic studies in enhanced biological phosphorous removal sludges. The reconstructed metabolic network, together with flux balance analysis can be used to provide new insights into controversial aspects of the metabolism of phosphate-accumulating organisms and is also a tool that can be used in to help enhanced biological phosphorous removal (EBPR) process design and operation.
Membrane filtration and sonication for industrial wastewater reuse
Authors: Caretti C. , Coppini E. , Fatarella E. , Lubello C.
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an experimental study aimed at estimating the efficiency of the innovative process of ultrafiltration (UF) combined with sonication (Son.) for the refinement of treated effluent to be reused in wet textile processes. Such a novel approach, which has not yet been employed on a full industrial scale, has been experienced at pilot scale on the secondary effluent of the Baciacavallo wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), which treats part of the effluent from one of the largest textile industry districts in Italy. The combined treatment efficiency was assessed both on ozonated and non-ozonated Baciacavallo secondary effluent. The membrane filtration process was optimized in terms of running time, backwash, chemical addition and cleaning procedures. The sonication treatment was optimized on laboratory-scale with synthetic solutions (demineralized water added with dyestuffs) in terms of hydroxyl radicals formation rate, frequency, acoustic power, hydrogen peroxide addition, contact time and pH. The optimal conditions have been applied on the pilot-scale sonicator which was used in combination with the UF treatment. According to the experimental results, the best configuration within the Baciacavallo WWTP was the sonication of non-ozonated wastewater followed by the UF. The combined treatment guaranteed the compliance with the target values for wastewater reuse in wet textile industries. This study is part of the Research Project PURIFAST (Purification of industrial and mixed wastewater by combined membrane filtration and sonochemical technologies) LIFE + ENV/IT/000439.
Removal of ammonium from aqueous solutions using the residue obtained from struvite pyrogenation
Authors: Huang Haiming , Song Qianwu , Xu Chunlian
Published: December 2011

This paper reports the results of laboratory studies on the removal of ammonium from aqueous solutions using struvite pyrogenation residues. A series of experiments were conducted to examine the effects of the pyrogenation temperature (90–210 °C) and time (0.5–4 h) on the ammonium release of struvite. In addition, the pyrolysate of struvite produced at different pyrogenation temperatures and times was recycled for ammonium removal from aqueous solutions. The experimental results indicated that the ammonium release ratio of struvite increased with an increase in the pyrogenation temperature and time, and the struvite pyrolysate used as magnesium and phosphate source for ammonium removal was produced at the optimal condition of pyrogenation temperature of 150 °C for 1 h. Furthermore, experimental results showed that the optimum pH and pyrolysate dosage for ammonium removal from 100 ml synthetic wastewater (1,350 mg ammonium/L) were at pH 9 and 2.4 g of struvite pyrolysate, respectively, and initial ammonium concentration played a significant role in the ammonium removal by the struvite pyrolysate. In order to further reduce the cost of struvite precipitation, the struvite pyrolysate was repeatedly used for four cycles. The results of economic analysis showed that recycling struvite for three process cycles should be reasonable for ammonium removal, with ammonium removal efficiencies of over 50% and a reduction of 40% in the removal cost per kg NH4+.
Photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) in a fully illuminated fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Pozzo R. L. , Conte L. O. , Giombi J. L. , Baltanás M. A.
Published: December 2011

The potential of a fluidized bed reactor for the UV-A photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI), a priority water pollutant, by utilizing a TiO2/quartz sand composite, was explored. The effects of oxalic acid (OA) as a sacrificial agent in the heterogeneous system was also investigated and compared with the homogeneous photoreduction by the same dicarboxylic acid under both oxygenated or anoxic conditions of the reacting media. The performance of the ‘preconditioned’ photocatalyst, either by pretreating it with the OA solution (at dark or under UV-A illumination) or by letting the catalyst stand wet with the OA solution, during designated time intervals (1–5 weeks) prior to its reuse, was assessed. Then, up to 95% reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) was achieved in less than 100 min.
Rapid and specific detection of Salmonella in water samples using real-time PCR and High Resolution Melt (HRM) curve analysis
Authors: van Blerk G. N. , Leibach L. , Mabunda A. , Chapman A. , Louw D.
Published: December 2011

A real-time PCR assay combined with a pre-enrichment step for the specific and rapid detection of Salmonella in water samples is described. Following amplification of the invA gene target, High Resolution Melt (HRM) curve analysis was used to discriminate between products formed and to positively identify invA amplification. The real-time PCR assay was evaluated for specificity and sensitivity. The assay displayed 100% specificity for Salmonella and combined with a 16–18 h non-selective pre-enrichment step, the assay proved to be highly sensitive with a detection limit of 1.0 CFU/ml for surface water samples. The detection assay also demonstrated a high intra-run and inter-run repeatability with very little variation in invA amplicon melting temperature. When applied to water samples received routinely by the laboratory, the assay showed the presence of Salmonella in particularly surface water and treated effluent samples. Using the HRM based assay, the time required for Salmonella detection was drastically shortened to less than 24 h compared to several days when using standard culturing methods. This assay provides a useful tool for routine water quality monitoring as well as for quick screening during disease outbreaks.
Pregnancies beyond the Human Biological Fecundity
Authors: Shufaro Yoel , Schenker Joseph G
Published: December 2011

The maternal age at first delivery constantly rises in developed countries due to a social trend to postpone the age of parenting. Assisted reproduction technologies do extend the age of fecundity to some limit, but their success rate is inversely related to the patients' age. The major factor limiting human fecundity in the fifth decade of life is the quality of the human oocyte. This problem can be readily bypassed using oocytes from young donors thus significantly extending the age limit in which conception and delivery are possible well into menopause. The ability to become pregnant and deliver at such an age raises serious medical, moral, social and legal concerns regarding the health and welfare of the mother, child and oocyte donor, which will be presented and discussed here.
Congenital Abnormalities of the Breast
Authors: Kulkarni Dhananjay , Dixon J Michael
Published: December 2011

Congenital abnormalities of the breast and chest wall are seen frequently in breast, pediatric and plastic surgery clinics. Management involves a multidisciplinary team approach. The treatment for many of these conditions includes surgical correction. If the child is still growing, treatment timing is crucial and many of the surgical corrective procedures require more than one operation over a number of years. Although these deformities have less impact on functional capacity, the psychological consequences can be serious in adolescent patients. They can experience embarrassment, social isolation and complexities during sexual development, and this results in problems with relationships. The aim of this article is to spread awareness among the medical community of this range of conditions, so appropriate referrals are made and their impact is reduced by timely appropriate surgical intervention if appropriate.
Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease with HRT
Authors: Maclaran Kate , Stevenson John C
Published: December 2011

Prevention of cardiovascular disease has increasingly important health implications as our population ages. Menopause is associated with the development of cardiovascular risk factors and there are many plausible biological mechanisms through which estrogen may confer cardiovascular protection. Despite a wealth of observational data to support the use of estrogen, large randomized controlled trials failed to demonstrate a benefit. It is now becoming clearer that the beneficial cardiovascular effects of estrogen are greatest in younger women and those closest to menopause. This has led to the development of the timing hypothesis. Use of age-appropriate estrogen doses is crucial to maximize cardiovascular benefits while minimizing risk of adverse effects such as venous thromboembolism and stroke.
Why the Term ‘Low-Grade Ductal Carcinoma in Situ’ should be Changed to ‘Borderline Breast Disease’: Diagnostic and Clinical Implications
Authors: Masood Shahla
Published: December 2011

During the last several years, increased public awareness, advances in breast imaging and enhanced screening programs have led to early breast cancer detection and attention to cancer prevention. The number of image-detected biopsies has increased, and pathologists are expected to provide more information with smaller tissue samples. These biopsies have resulted in detection of increasing numbers of high-risk proliferative breast disease and in situ cancers. The general hypothesis is that some forms of breast cancers may arise from established forms of ductal carcinoma in situ and atypical ductal hyperplasia, and possibly from more common forms of ductal hyperplasia. However, this is an oversimplification of a very complex process given the fact that the majority of breast cancers appear to arise de novo or from a yet unknown precursor lesion. Currently, atypical ductal hyperplasia and ductal carcinoma in situ are considered as morphologic risk factors and precursor lesions for breast cancer. However, morphologic distinction between these two entities has remained a real issue that continues to lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Aside from morphologic similarities between atypical ductal hyperplasia and low-grade ductal carcinoma in situ, biomarker studies and molecular genetic testing have shown that morphologic overlaps are reflected at the molecular level and raise questions about the validity of separating these two entities. It is hoped that as we better understand the genetic basis of these entities in relation to ultimate patient outcome, the suggested use of the term ‘borderline breast disease’ can minimize the number of patients who are subject to overtreatment.
A Different Model for Doctoral Education in Accounting and Auditing: Student and Faculty Reflections
Authors: Bishop Carol C. , Boyle Douglas M. , Clune Richard R. , Hermanson Dana R.
Published: December 2011

One proposed solution to the accounting and auditing faculty shortage is to expand the supply of AACSB-accredited professional or executive accounting doctoral programs (AACSB 2003; Trapnell et al. 2009), programs that are more flexible than traditional Ph.D. programs and are targeted to experienced professionals. This paper provides information about non-traditional doctoral programs and discusses the four co-authors' personal experiences in such programs. We believe that the insights will be useful both to prospective doctoral students (i.e., current practitioners and executives seeking to transition into academic careers) and to academics considering the development of such programs, or even hiring graduates from such programs.
Palliative ultrasound-guided endoscopic diode laser ablation of transitional cell carcinomas of the lower urinary tract in dogs
Authors: Cerf Dean J. , Lindquist Eric C.
Published: December 2011

Objective—To describe the development of ultrasound-guided endoscopic diode laser ablation for palliative management of urinary tract obstruction due to transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—38 dogs with urinary tract obstruction or potential obstruction caused by TCC.

Procedures—Diagnosis of TCC of the urinary bladder and urethra was made by means of transabdominal ultrasonography and transurethral endoscopic biopsy. Transurethral endoscopic near-infrared diode laser ablation was performed to debulk and remove obstructive and potentially obstructive TCC lesions. Transabdominal ultrasonography permitted proper alignment of the endoscope and laser fiber for monitoring laser fiber penetration and subsequent tissue alteration or ablation. The primary outcome measured was median survival time.

Results—Median survival time for all dogs was 380 days, with a range of 11 to 1,906 days. There was no significant difference in survival time between dogs that had TCCs with urethral involvement versus dogs that had TCCs without urethral involvement. Complications were stranguria, hematuria, stenosis at the cystourethral junction, spread of TCC within the lower urinary tract, spread to the urethrostomy site, urethral perforation, and bacterial cystitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that ultrasound-guided endoscopic diode laser ablation holds promise as a palliative treatment for dogs with TCC of the urinary tract. Ultrasonographic guidance and monitoring during laser irradiation was a useful addition to endoscopically applied transurethral diode laser ablation.
Comparison of short-term complication rates between dogs and cats undergoing appositional single-layer or inverting double-layer cystotomy closure: 144 cases (1993–2010)
Authors: Thieman-Mankin Kelley M. , Ellison Gary W. , Jeyapaul Cynthia J. , Glotfelty-Ortiz Carmen S.
Published: December 2011

Objective—To compare short-term complication rates in dogs and cats undergoing cystotomy closure by use of an inverting double-layer pattern (group I) versus cystotomy closure by use of an appositional single-layer pattern (group A).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—144 client-owned dogs and cats that underwent cystotomy between 1993 and 2010.

Procedures—Information on signalment, reason for cystotomy, method of cystotomy closure, complications that developed during hospitalization, and duration of hospitalization were obtained from the medical record. The effect of closure technique on short-term complication rate and duration of hospitalization was examined.

Results—2 of the 144 animals developed dehiscence and uroabdomen following cystotomy closure: 1 from group A and 1 from group I. Of group A animals, 29 of 79 (37%) developed minor complications such as hematuria and dysuria. Of group I animals, 33 of 65 (50%) developed the same complications. Group A and group I animals did not differ significantly with regard to prevalence of minor or major complications. The mean duration of hospitalization was 4.1 days and did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—An appositional single-layer suture pattern for cystotomy closure was a safe and effective procedure with minimal risk of urine leakage and a short-term complication rate of 37%. The appositional single-layer suture pattern for cystotomy closure may be recommended for clinical use because the inverting double-layer suture pattern offered no clear advantage.
Use of magnetic resonance imaging and histopathologic findings for diagnosis of an aneurysmal bone cyst in the scapula of a cat
Authors: Benamou Jérôme , Lussier Bertrand , Alexander Kate , Gains Malcolm J. , Savard Claudine
Published: December 2011

Case Description—An 18-month-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was evaluated because of left thoracic limb lameness.

Clinical Findings—A firm mass was palpable in the left scapular region. On the basis of clinical signs; results of radiographic, ultrasonographic, and cytologic evaluations; and findings on magnetic resonance imaging, an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) of the scapula was strongly suspected.

Treatment and Outcome—Considering the large size of the mass and the poor prognosis for return to function of the left thoracic limb, amputation was elected. Histologic evaluation ruled out a malignant process and was diagnostic for ABC originating from the left scapula. The patient recovered well and was ambulatory the day after surgery. Three years after surgery, the cat was healthy.

Clinical Relevance—The combination of radiography, regional ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging enabled lesion structure and cavity content evaluation. However, final diagnosis was confirmed by histologic evaluation. To our knowledge, this is the first veterinary report of the use of magnetic resonance imaging in the characterization and diagnosis of an ABC.
Analysis of Bacterial Surface Interactions Using Microfluidic Systems
Authors: Mosier Aaron P. , Cady Nathaniel C.
Published: December 2011

Modern microbiological research has increasingly focused on the interactions between bacterial cells and the surfaces that they inhabit. To this end, microfluidic devices have played a large role in enabling research of cell-surface interactions, especially surface attachment and biofilm formation. This review provides background on microfluidic devices and their use in biological systems, as well specific examples from current literature. Methods to observe and interrogate cells within microfluidic devices are described, as well as the analytical techniques that are used to collect these data.
Single Stage Urethroplasty for Proximal Hypospadias with Chordee
Authors: Hassan MK , Paul AC , Khair MA , Saha RK , Hanif A , Chowdhury ASMJ
Published: December 2011

Proximal hypospadias with chordee usually requires two stage procedures: 1st stage is orthoplasty and ventral parking of prepucial skin and 2nd stage is urethroplasty after 6 months of 1st stage. The aim of this study is to describe and report the outcome of a single stage repair- Koyanagi Nanamura procedure for proximal hypospadias with chordee. Between January 2006 to December 2010, 44 boys with proximal hypospadias underwent repair using the Koyanagi Nanamura technique in Paediatric Surgery Department of Faridpur Medical College Hospital and Dhaka Medical College Hospital. The boys' age ranged from 1 to 7 years. The technique employs the use of lateral penile skin and extends into the inner preputial skin. This flap enjoys double blood supply from the base of the meatus as well as the preputial vessels. Follow-up period was 6 months. Satisfactory results were obtained in 39 (88.6%) patients. Three patients developed fistulae. Two patients developed meatal stenosis. Results were considered satisfactory when the boy achieves a glanular meatus, single forward stream, unimpeded voiding, good cosmesis, and no need for secondary surgery for the urethra. Koyanagi Nanamura procedure is a reliable procedure in which the lateral flaps have dual blood supply, which produces good results (88.6%) and is suitable for proximal forms of hypospadias with chordee. Key words: Hypospadias; Chordee; Fistula; Penis DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9202 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 66-69
Management Strategy and Outcome of Epidural Haematoma in Relation to Volume
Authors: Islam MM , Bhuiyan TH , Hassan MK , Asadullah MATM , Raihan Z , Hossain SS
Published: December 2011

Epidural Haematoma (EDH) develops in 1-3% of all major head injuries and most common in the young. This crosssectional descriptive study was done to find out the management strategy and outcome of EDH in relation to clot volume. This study was performed from December'2006 to November'2007, by purposively selecting 77 cases of EDH from the Department of Neurosurgery, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka. The study showed that highest number of patients was in most active period of life, with male predominance (Male: Female =7.5:1). Causes of EDH were mostly due to assault (37.7%), followed by RTA (32.5%) and fall from height (29.8%). The study showed Patient having EDH Volume (EDHV) > 30ml will have 8.55 times more chance of having unfavorable outcome than patient having EDHV < 30 ml. Patient having EDHV > 30 ml will have 187.83 times more chance of requiring surgical intervention than those having EDHV <30 ml, which is statistically highly significant (p<0.001). Mortality rate of EDH can be reduced by giving early management either conservative or surgery. Delay in the management of EDH patients with poor level of consciousness and EDHV >30 ml has adverse effect on mortality and morbidity. Key words: EDH; EDHV; Burr hole; GOS; GCS. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9208 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 89-91
Numbers of Purkinje Cell with Increasing Age-A Post Mortem Study
Authors: Yesmin T , Ara S , Umar BU , Rahman M , Afroz H , Sultana K , Begum AA
Published: December 2011

The change in the number of Purkinje cells with increasing age is evident especially in disorders of fine movement, equilibrium, hypotonia, postural changes, and disturbances of voluntary movement. The present study was done to see the changes in the number of Purkinje cells per square mm in different age groups of Bangladeshi people. This cross sectional descriptive type of study was designed and done in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from January to December 2010, which was performed on the cerebellum of 28 Bangladeshi people, collected during autopsy examination of unclaimed dead bodies from Department of Forensic Medicine. Paraffin blocks of cerebellum were cut at 5mm thickness and stained with routine Harris' Haematoxylin and Eosin (H & E) stain. Estimation of number of Purkinje cell was done by using the counting circle and examined under the light microscope. The mean ± SD of number of Purkinje cell was 160.71 ± 24.47 in group A (Age 20-29 years) and 152.20 ± 6.49 in group D (age> 50 years), the mean reduction was 2.5% per decade. Histological studies revealed the number of Purkinje cell per square mm decreased with age which was statistically significant and further cytological study of Purkinje cell with larger sample size is recommended. Key words: Purkinje cell; Cerebellum. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9209 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 92-94
Pattern of Tobacco Consumption among the Diabetic Patients
Authors: Biswas MK , Biswas AK , Biswas G , Begum J
Published: December 2011

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a public health challenge all over the world. Recent evidence suggests that there is a positive association between smoking and the risk of diabetes. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2008 at BIRDEM Hospital, Shahbagh, Dhaka to find out pattern of tobacco consumption among diabetic patients. Age of the respondents was >15 years. With purposive sampling total 255 respondents were selected. Data was collected through face-to-face interview with structured questionnaire. Out of 255 respondents, 51.4% consumed deferent type of tobacco. Smoker was 63.36% and smokeless tobacco user was 52.67%. The highest (45.80%) had habit of smoking, 36.64% had habit of smokeless tobacco and 17.56% had habit both types of tobacco consumption. The highest smoking and smokeless tobacco consumption found within 50-60 years age group. Total 60.80% male had smoking habit and 32.82% female were smokeless tobacco consumer but no female was smoker. Twenty nine percent tobacco consumers were primarily educated, 16.08% service holders were tobacco consumer and 13.75% service holders were smoker. Among respondents lung diseases and heart diseases were common (78.54.0% and 49.36%). Respondents who consumed tobacco were suffered (74.36%) more complication than non-tobacco consumer (25.64%). So an effective awareness program is required to discourage the consumption of tobacco to protect diabetic patients. Key words: Diabetes mellitus; Smoking; Tobacco DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9210 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 95-99
Prospective Study of Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Halim A , Alam T , Ali MY , Islam MMSU , Ahammad F , Rahman SH , Barman RC
Published: December 2011

Bronchial asthma is an atopic disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation and hyper-responsiveness. Severe acute asthma is a medical emergency and sometimes difficult to treat. This prospective study was done at Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 1997 to January 1998. Total 30 patients of bronchial asthma were included in this study. Diagnosis was established on the basis of symptoms, evidence of airflow obstruction and its reversibility by bronchodilator therapy. The age range was 18 to 80 years with a mean 36.64±4.91. Of them, 63% were male and 37% were female. It revealed that all patients had classical triad of dyspnoea, wheeze and cough. Almost all patients (80%) had some precipitating agents for their attack. Regarding treatment of severe acute asthma - Nebulized salbutamol is superior to conventional intravenous aminophylline, as p value of nebulized salbutamol group is <0.001 which is significant. So, severe acute asthma should be managed with nebulized salbutamol instead of intravenous aminophylline. Key words: Bronchial asthma; Bronchodilator; Nebulized salbutamol; Aminophylline. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9211 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 100-103
Familial Hypoparathyroidism with Pregnancy- Challenging Issue for Patient as well as for Physician
Authors: Islam MMSU , Mubin S , Sarker MN , Ahmed DS , Barman RC , Siddiqui FM
Published: December 2011

Familial hypoparathyroidism is a rare cause of hypoparathyroidism. It may be x-linked recessive, autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive. In autosomal dominant hypoparathyroidism there is activating mutation of the calcium sensing receptor leading to inhibition of Parathormone (PTH) secretion at inappropriately low serum ionized calcium level. The disease often manifests in the first decade but may appear later. Clinical signs primarily involving neuromuscular disturbances including generalized seizure. Management of pregnancy in hypoparathyroidism is challenging as both under treatment and over treatment is dangerous for fetus. Treatment of hypoparathyroidism in pregnancy includes combination of oral calcium supplementation with calcitriol with an aim to keep serum calcium within normal range. Here we discussed a case of 21 year pregnant lady with familial hypoparathyroidism with successful delivery of a healthy baby. Key words: Hypoparathyroidism; Hypocalcaemia; Hyperphosphataemia; Epilepsy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/fmcj.v6i2.9215 FMCJ 2011; 6(2): 113-115
Bayesian Estimation of Combined Accuracy for Tests with Verification Bias
Authors: Broemeling Lyle D.
Published: December 2011

This presentation will emphasize the estimation of the combined accuracy of two or more tests when verification bias is present. Verification bias occurs when some of the subjects are not subject to the gold standard. The approach is Bayesian where the estimation of test accuracy is based on the posterior distribution of the relevant parameter. Accuracy of two combined binary tests is estimated employing either “believe the positive” or “believe the negative” rule, then the true and false positive fractions for each rule are computed for two tests. In order to perform the analysis, the missing at random assumption is imposed, and an interesting example is provided by estimating the combined accuracy of CT and MRI to diagnose lung cancer. The Bayesian approach is extended to two ordinal tests when verification bias is present, and the accuracy of the combined tests is based on the ROC area of the risk function. An example involving mammography with two readers with extreme verification bias illustrates the estimation of the combined test accuracy for ordinal tests.
The Centre for Healthy Weights—Shapedown BC: A Family-Centered, Multidisciplinary Program that Reduces Weight Gain in Obese Children over the Short-Term
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Constadina , Ronsley Rebecca , Al-Dubayee Mohammed , Brant Rollin , Kuzeljevic Boris , Rurak Erin , Cristall Arlene , Marks Glynis , Sneddon Penny , Hinchliffe Mary , Chanoine Jean-Pierre , Mâsse Louise C.
Published: December 2011

The objective was to conduct a program evaluation of the Centre for Healthy Weights—Shapedown BC (CHW-SB), a family-centered, multidisciplinary program for obese children, by assessing the change in weight trajectories from program intake to completion. Secondary outcomes included changes in clinical, biochemical and psychological parameters, and in physical activity (PA) levels. The CHW-SB program was evaluated over 10 weeks. Data collection included anthropometric, metabolic, PA and psychological measures. Longitudinal mixed effects regression was performed to evaluate weight change from Phase 1 (before program on waitlist) to Phase 2 (during program). 238 children < 18 years of age were referred to the program of which 119 were eligible for participation. There was a significant decrease in weight trajectory in children following program entry. Participants experienced an average .89% monthly increase before program entry, compared to a .37% monthly decline afterwards, a drop of 1.26% (p < 0.0001, 95%CI 1.08 to 1.44). zBMI (2.26 ± 0.33 to 2.20 ± 0.36, p < 0.001), waist circumference (99 ± 15.7 to 97 ± 16 cm, p < 0.0001) and fasting insulin (137 ± 94.8 to 121 ± 83.4 pmol/L, < 0.001) also decreased in participants who attended the final visit. Significant improvements were seen in all measures of PA, self-concept, and anxiety. CHW-SB, a government-funded program, is the first obesity-treatment program to be evaluated in Canada. While short-term evaluation revealed significant improvements in adiposity, PA, and psychological measures, the lack of full follow-up is a limitation in interpreting the clinical effectiveness of this program, as drop-out may be associated with lack of success in meeting program goals. These data also emphasize the need for ongoing evaluation to assess the long-term implications of this unique program and ultimately optimize utilization of governmental resources.
Radical-Scavenging Activity of Dietary Phytophenols in Combination with co-Antioxidants Using the Induction Period Method
Authors: Kadoma Yoshinori , Fujisawa Seiichiro
Published: December 2011

The radical-scavenging activity of dietary phytophenols has been investigated by many researches due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer property but the radical-scavenging effect of 2-phytophenol and the phytophenol:co-antioxidants, vitamin C and thiol combination under nearly anaerobic conditions still remains unknown. The radical-scavenging activity for seventeen phytophenols and for six synthetic phenols (positive controls) was investigated using the induction period method in the polymerization of methyl methacrylates (MMA) initiated by thermal decomposition of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) by monitoring differential scanning calorimetery (DSC). The kinh for the phytophenols was likely with the range 0.5 × 103 M−1s−1−2.2 × 103 M−1s−1, whereas that for synthetic phenols, hydroquinone and galvinoxyl, was with the range 7 × 103 M−1s−1−8 × 103 M−1s−1. Also, the additive scavenging effect of the (−)-epigallocatechin (EGC):(−)-epicatechin (EC) and the (+)-catechin:epicatechin (EC) combination was observed at 1:1 molar ratio, whereas that of the EC:quercetin combination showed the cancel (prooxidative) effect. Furthermore, the EGC:ASDB (L-ascorbyl 2,6-dibutylate) or 2-ME (2-mercaptoethanol) combination showed the prooxidative effect. Such enhancement of prooxidation in the combination may increase their toxic effects due to their cooxidation. Also, the synergic, additive or cancel effects of the flavonoid:vitamins E combination on the induction period in the BPO (a PhCOO* radical) and 2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN, an R* radical) systems are discussed.
Amperometric Immunosensor Based on a Protein A/Deposited Gold Nanocrystals Modified Electrode for Carbofuran Detection
Authors: Sun Xia , Zhu Ying , Wang Xiangyou
Published: December 2011

In this paper, an amperometric immunosensor modified with protein A/deposited gold nanocrystals (DpAu) was developed for the ultrasensitive detection of carbofuran residues. First, DpAu were electrodeposited onto the Au electrode surface to absorb protein A (PA) and improve the electrode conductivity. Then PA was dropped onto the surface of DpAu film, used for binding antibody Fc fragments. Next, anti-carbofuran monoclonal antibody was immobilized on the PA modified electrode. Finally, bovine serum albumin (BSA) was employed to block the possible remaining active sites avoiding any nonspecific adsorption. The fabrication procedure of the immunosensor was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV), respectively. With the excellent electroconductivity of DpAu and the PA’s oriented immobilization of antibodies, a highly efficient immuno-reaction and detection sensitivity could be achieved. The influences of the electrodeposition time of DpAu, pH of the detection solution and incubation time on the current response of the fabricated immunosensor were investigated. Under optimized conditions, the current response was proportional to the concentration of carbofuran which ranged from 1 to 100 ng/mL and 100 ng/mL to 100 μg/mL. The detection limit was 0.1924 ng/mL. The proposed carbofuran immnuosensor exhibited high specificity, reproducibility, stability and regeneration performance, which may open a new door for ultrasensitive detection of carbofuran residues in vegetables and fruits.
Antivirals for Management of Herpes Zoster Including Ophthalmicus: A Systematic Review of High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: McDonald Elissa M , de Kock Johannes , Ram Felix SF
Published: December 2011

Background

There is lack of consensus from randomized controlled trials on the efficacy of antivirals in the management of herpes zoster. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to provide better understanding of effectiveness of antivirals in management of herpes zoster.

Methods

A total of 12 randomized controlled trials with 7,277 patients were included in the review. Trials compared one antiviral to another (aciclovir, valaciclovir, famciclovir or brivudin) for a minimum of 7 days in immunocompetent patients presenting with herpes zoster diagnosed within 72 h of symptom onset. Primary outcome was reduction in pain.

Results

Compared with aciclovir, valaciclovir showed significant reduction in herpes-zoster-associated pain up to 112 days. The largest risk reduction in pain (36%) was seen at 21–30 days (relative risk [RR] 0.64, 95% CI 0.59, 0.70) with number needed to treat to benefit (NNT) of 3 (95% CI 2.7, 3.8). Famciclovir was also superior to aciclovir with a 46% reduction in risk of pain at 28–30 days (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.48, 0.68) with NNT of 3 (95% CI 2, 5). Time to lesion healing and adverse effect profile was comparable.

Conclusions

Evidence from quality trials have shown significant reduction in risk of pain with valaciclovir and famciclovir for management of herpes zoster including ophthalmicus. Valaciclovir or famciclovir should be preferred treatment options in patients with herpes zoster as they both provide significant reduction in risk of herpes-zoster-associated pain. Furthermore, the superior pharmacokinetics and more convenient dosing regimens with the use of valaciclovir and famciclovir clearly make them the preferred treatment option.
Incidence and etiology of omphalitis in Pakistan: a community-based cohort study
Authors: Mir Fatima , Tikmani Shiyam Sundar , Shakoor Sadia , Warraich Haider Javed , Sultana Shazia , Ali Syed Asad , Zaidi Anita KM
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Although omphalitis (umbilical infections) among newborns is common and a major cause of neonatal deaths in developing countries, information on its burden and etiology from community settings is lacking. This study aimed to determine the incidence and etiology of omphalitis in newborns in high neonatal mortality settings in Karachi, Pakistan. Methodology: Trained community health workers surveyed all new births in three low-income areas from September 2004 to August 2007. Pus samples from the umbilical stumps were obtained from babies with pre-defined signs of illness and subjected to culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Results: Among 6904 births, 1501 (21.7%) newborns were diagnosed with omphalitis. Of these, 325 (21.6%) were classified as mild, 1042 (69.4%) as moderate, and 134 (8.9%) as severe; 141 (9.3%) were associated with clinical signs of sepsis. The incidence of omphalitis was 217.4/1000 live births; moderate-severe omphalitis 170.3 per 1000 live births; and associated with sepsis 20.4 per 1000 live births. Of 853 infants with purulent umbilical discharge, 64% yielded 583 isolates. The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus, of which 291 (95.7%) were methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and 13 (4.2%) methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA); Streptococcus pyogenes 105 (18%); Group B beta-hemolytic streptococci 59 (10 %); Pseudomonas spp., 52 (8.9 %); Aeromonas spp. 19 (3.2%); and Klebsiella spp. 12 (2%). Conclusions: A high burden of omphalitis can be associated with sepsis among newborns in low-income communities in Pakistan. S. aureus is the most common pathogen isolated from umbilical pus. Appropriate low-cost prevention strategies need to be implemented.
Cloning, expression and purification of outer membrane protein PorA of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B
Authors: Haghi Fakhri , Najar Peerayeh Shahin , Siadat Seyed Davar , Montajabiniat Mehran
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Neisseria meningitidis is a major causative agent of bacterial septicemia and meningitis in humans. Currently, there are no vaccines to prevent disease caused by strains of N. meningitidis serogroup B. PorA is a major component of the outer membrane of N. meningitidis and functions as a cationic porin. This study aimed to clone and determine the expression of PorA. Methodology: A 1200 bp fragment of porA gene was amplified by PCR from serogroup B N. meningitidis and then cloned into prokaryotic expression vector pET-32a. For expression of recombinant protein, pET32a-porA plasmid was transformed into competent Origami B (DE3) cells. Recombinant protein was overexpressed with isopropythio-beta-D-galctoside (IPTG) and affinity purified by Ni-NTA agarose. SDS-PAGE and western blotting were performed for protein determination and verification. Results: Cloning of porA was confirmed by colony-PCR and enzymatic digestion. In comparison with the corresponding sequences of original genes, the nucleotide sequence homology of the cloned porA gene was 97%. IPTG with a dosage of 1.0 mmol/L could efficiently induce protein expression. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that our constructed prokaryotic expression system pET32a-PorA-Origami efficiently produces a target recombinant protein with a molecular weight of 65 kDa. The recombinant PorA was overexpressed as inclusion bodies and reacted with the serum from a rabbit previously immunized with native outer membrane vesicle. Conclusion: This prokaryotic expression system provides an easy method for producing recombinant PorA and may also be useful for the production of other bacterial outer membrane proteins for vaccine studies.