bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antihypertensive Treatment and Kidney Function in Routine Practice in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The Results of the Prospective "The Scythian" Trial in Ukraine
Authors: Ivanov Dmitri D , Mankovsky Boris N
Published: September 2014

Background :

Hypertension, albuminuria and decreased GFR are regarded as independent risk factors that reflect progression of the diabetic kidney disease (DKD). We carried out second phase of prospective study which aim was to learn the possibility of implementation of intensive antihypertensive therapy into the routine clinical practice and assessment of such treatment influence on kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods :

In the study 637 patients were included with DKD and arterial hypertension with BP level more than 130/80 mmHg and less than 1800 mmHg, having chronic kidneys disease (CKD) 1-4. As a basis for intensive antihypertensive treatment fixed combination of perindopril 5 mg and indapamide 1.25 mg were prescribed. If needed, after 4 weeks the dosage was increased up to perindopril 10 mg/ indapamide 2.5 mg to achieve targeted BP less that 130/80 mmHg. If targeted BP had not been achieved other antihypertensive preparations were added.

Results :

After 4 weeks of treatment average levels of systolic and diastolic BP were 141.3±0.5 and 86.3±0.3, after 8 weeks of therapy – 131.6±0.4 and 81.3±0.3 mmHg, and after 12 weeks of treatment –127.2±0.3 and 78.7±0.2 mmHg respectively. Target BP was achieved in 489 patients (73.3%) during 12 weeks of treatment. Statistically significant increase of GFR as a result of 12 weeks of antihypertensive therapy with fixed perindopril/indapamide combination was found to be between 84.3±1.1 and 94.7±1.1 ml/min./1,73m2, р<0.01.

Conclusion :

Antihypertensive therapy with fixed combination of perindopril 5-10 mg/indapamide 1.25-2.5 mg introduced into routine clinical practice of T2DM patients’ treatment, is effective for BP reduction, achievement of its targeted values and resulted in statistically significant trend to kidney function improvement.
The Raz Bladder Suspensions: Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence:
10 Years Personal Experience
Authors: Agatstein Ernest H , Raz Shlomo
Published: September 2014

Introduction :

We report on one surgeon’s clinical experience with the 2 and 4 corner Raz bladder suspension performed for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (alone or associated with cystocoele repair) in a consecutive patient cohort between 2003 and 2012 reporting short and longer term results.

Materials and Methods :

We performed a retrospective study of consecutive patients who underwent a 2 or 4 corner Raz bladder suspension by one surgeon (EHA ) to treat stress urinary incontinence over a period of time from Jan 1 2003 -Sept

2012. 3 month and longer term outcomes was determined by patient self assessment including validated questionnaires.

Results :

98.7% of 82 patients reported no stress incontinence at 3 months Longer term follow-up was available on 48 (65%) patients. Of those lost to follow up, 8 were deceased. Mean age was 66.1 years. Mean follow up was 48.2 months (range 4-111months). 21 of the 48 (44%)patients were beyond 48 months. 41 of 48 (85%) patients were either delighted, pleased or mostly satisfied. 42 of 48 patients (87.5 %) had 50 % or more improvement. Pad use of 2.6 decreased to 0.9 pads with P value less than 0.0001.

Conclusion :

The Raz bladder suspension has good short and longer term results in relieving stress incontinence in addition to low morbidity and lower costs without the use of any mesh product.
MCNPX simulations of the response of the extended-range rem meter WENDI-2
Authors: de Smet , Gerardy Isabelle , Stichelbaut Frederic , Tolo Silvia
Published: September 2014

Proton therapy uses proton beams with energies typically between 50 and 230
MeV to treat cancerous tumors very efficiently, while protecting as much as
possible surrounding healthy tissues from radiation damage. Protons
interacting with matter inevitably induce secondary radiation from which all
people inside the proton therapy center have to be protected. The ambient dose equivalent H*(10) in such a facility is mainly due to neutrons, which can have energies up to 230 MeV. Although various dose monitoring systems
sensitive to high energy neutrons have already been developed, the response
function of these detectors is often insufficiently characterized, and so are
the calibration factors appropriate for the specific neutron spectra
encountered inside a proton therapy facility. In this work, the Monte Carlo
code MCNPX 2.5.0 has been used to study the response function of the
extended-range rem-meter WENDI-2 from thermal energies up to 5 GeV. A good
match has been obtained with equivalent simulation results found in
literature. As a first step towards the characterization of the WENDI-2
response in continuous neutron fields, MCNPX simulations have also been
carried out for the case-study of a bunker around an 18 MeV H-cyclotron,
which involves neutron fields from thermal energies up to 18 MeV.
Numerical discretization analysis of a HTR steam generator model for the thermal-hydraulics code trace
Authors: Esch Markus , Knoche Dietrich , Hurtado Antonio
Published: September 2014

For future high temperature reactor projects, e. g., for electricity
production or nuclear process heat applications, the steam generator is a
crucial component. A typical design is a helical coil steam generator
consisting of several tubes connected in parallel forming cylinders of
different diameters. This type of steam generator was a significant component
used at the thorium high temperature reactor. In the work presented the
temperature profile is being analyzed by the nodal thermal hydraulics code
TRACE for the thorium high temperature reactor steam generator. The influence
of the nodalization is being investigated within the scope of this study and
compared to experimental results from the past. The results of the standard
TRACE code are compared to results using a modified Nusselt number for the
primary side. The implemented heat transfer correlation was developed within
the past German HTR program. This study shows that both TRACE versions are
stable and provides a discussion of the nodalization requirements.
Tax smoothing hypothesis: A Turkish case
Authors: Turan Taner , Karakas Mesut , Yanikkaya Halit
Published: September 2014

We tested the tax smoothing hypothesis for Turkey using annual data for the
period of 1949-2010. Although our preliminary estimation results imply the
existence of the weak form of tax smoothing for Turkey, further tests
indicate the violation of exogeneity of permanent government spending, which
is a requirement for the tax smoothing hypothesis to hold. Our causality
tests indicate that permanent government spending is not exogenous due to the
causality running from lagged tax rates to permanent government spending.
Therefore, we conclude that our results provide evidence against the tax
smoothing hypothesis. Our results are important because the existence of
random-walk behavior of the tax rates alone or some preliminary regressions
do not guarantee the existence of tax smoothing.
Global Education First and Educate a Child: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Whiteford Phillipa
Published: September 2014

With the deadline for the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals fast approaching, various policies and initiatives have been put in place with the aim of working towards these goals. Two such initiatives are the United Nations' own Global Education First Initiative and the Qatari-based Educate A Child. While there is no doubt that the ideology and aims of such agencies are well founded, their usefulness in practice can in some cases seem less obvious and can be problematic when seeking widespread public support. As a result of technology and social media, we live now in an age where the public demands higher levels of information, interaction and transparency and so, through an exploration of their respective websites, this article investigates the public face of these two humanitarian agencies. It will consider what evidence can be seen of practice supporting goals, compare and contrast the overall effectiveness of the web presence, and given the global trend towards open development, comment briefly on what can be seen of each agency's commitment to openness. Finally, important points for discussion will be suggested which ought to be considered if we are to continue moving forward with a participatory and emancipatory approach.
The IASB and ASBJ Conceptual Frameworks: Same Objective, Different Financial Performance Concepts
Authors: van Mourik Carien , Katsuo Yuko
Published: September 2014

SYNOPSIS

This paper illustrates that, despite their general agreement on the decision-usefulness objective of general purpose financial reporting, the Accounting Standard Board of Japan (ASBJ) and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)'s conceptual frameworks are based on two different concepts of financial performance. By identifying and contrasting the two financial performance concepts and their impact on the rest of the frameworks and by explaining the thinking that underpins the ASBJ's chosen financial performance concept, it contributes to a debate about the role of financial performance concepts in fulfilling the decision-usefulness objective. Such a debate is pertinent to the revision of the IASB's Conceptual Framework, which is scheduled for completion in 2015.
Audit Quality and the Market Value of Cash Holdings: The Case of Office-Level Auditor Industry Specialization
Authors: Kim Jeong-Bon , Lee Jay Junghun , Park Jong Chool
Published: September 2014

This study investigates the monitoring role of high-quality auditors defined as office-level industry specialists in the stock market valuation of cash assets. We find that the market value of cash holdings is significantly higher for the client of an industry specialist auditor. The marginal value of cash is 34 cents higher for the client of a joint-industry specialist at both the national and city levels than for the client of a nonspecialist. We also find that cash holdings are more closely associated with capital investment and the market value of capital investment is significantly higher when the auditor is a joint-industry specialist. Moreover, we find that the value of cash increases significantly when the client changes its auditor to a joint-industry specialist. Our findings hold even after controlling for the client's governance efficacy and financial reporting quality. Our results provide new insight into the mechanism through which high-quality audits affect firm value: External audits facilitate shareholders' monitoring over managerial cash expenditures, thereby leading market participants to attach a higher value to cash holdings.
On the Operational Reality of Auditors' Independence: Lessons from the Field
Authors: Guénin-Paracini Henri , Malsch Bertrand , Tremblay Marie-Soleil
Published: September 2014

Auditor independence, which has certainly been one of the most addressed topics in auditing literature, is a complex and ambiguous construct that can be analyzed along two dimensions. The first dimension, organizational independence, relates to auditors' willingness to act in accordance with professional standards and to report errors found during the audit. The second dimension, operational independence, relates to auditors' capability to work diligently and effectively in order to detect material anomalies. Surprisingly, “much of the debate has [so far] focused on the former,” while the latter has remained largely “under-discussed” (Power 1999, 132), if not ignored. In this paper, based on ethnographic data and semi-structured interviews, we examine the realities of auditors' operational independence and discuss the practical and theoretical implications of our findings. Our evidence suggests that auditors' operational independence is both unsettled in practice and impossible to achieve through institutional measures alone. This view may challenge orthodox and regulatory conceptions of audit, but the smooth conduct of an audit engagement largely depends on the auditees' desire to cooperate. In order to arouse and maintain this desire, audit team members resort to a number of relational strategies that aim at securing their capability to work with diligence and efficacy, but that can also undermine their willingness to take enforcement action when necessary. Audit, therefore, appears to be a complex balancing act between capability and willingness. Ultimately, it is shown that because official arrangements designed to guarantee operational independence are unlikely to be effective, the reality of auditor independence remains highly uncertain and needs to be constantly negotiated and renegotiated in the field.
Receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa ligand, OPG, and IGF-I expression during orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption in the recombinant human growth hormone–treated rats
Authors: Hu Yajun , Liu Wentao , Liu Zhijian , Kuang Wenying , He Hong
Published: September 2014

Objective: 

To investigate the effects of growth hormone (GH) on local receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa ligand (RANKL), OPG, and IGF-I expression during orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption in rats.

Materials and Methods: 

Forty Wistar rats (gender: male; age: 7 weeks) were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. A force of 50 g was applied to move the right upper first molars mesially. The experimental and control groups received daily subcutaneous injections of recombinant human growth hormone (GH; 2 mg/kg) and equivalent volumes of saline, respectively. The rats were sacrificed on days 1, 3, 7, and 14. Micro–computed tomography–reconstructed images of the upper right first molars were used to survey root resorption and tooth movement. Horizontal sections of the maxillae were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, and immunohistochemical staining.

Results: 

Resorption lacunae appeared on the compressed side of the distal buccal root of the right first molar on days 7 and 14. Compared with the control groups, GH-treated groups showed more RANKL-positive cells and osteoclasts on day 3 and more OPG- and IGF-I–positive cells and fewer odontoclasts on days 7 and 14. Indexes of root resorption were lower and tooth movement was faster in the GH-treated groups than in the control groups on days 7 and 14.

Conclusions: 

The inhibitory effect of GH on root resorption by heavy force might be mediated by RANKL/OPG and IGF-I. Short-term GH administration may be a method with which to reduce root resorption and shorten treatment time, especially in patients who are susceptible to root resorption.
Adaptive Regression and Classification Models with Applications in Insurance
Authors: Jekabsons Gints , Uhanova Marina
Published: September 2014

Nowadays, in the insurance industry the use of predictive modeling by means of regression and classification techniques is becoming increasingly important and popular. The success of an insurance company largely depends on the ability to perform such tasks as credibility estimation, determination of insurance premiums, estimation of probability of claim, detecting insurance fraud, managing insurance risk. This paper discusses regression and classification modeling for such types of prediction problems using the method of Adaptive Basis Function Construction
Semitopological BL-Algebras and MV -Algebras
Authors: Zahiri O. , Borzooei R. A.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, by considering the notion of upsets, for any element x of a BL-algebra L, we construct a topology Tx on L and show that L-algebras with this topology formes a semitopological BL-algebras. Then we obtain some of the topological aspects of this structure such as connectivity and compactness. Moreover, we introduced two kinds of semitopological MV -algebra by using two kinds of definition of MV -algebra and show that they are equivalent.
On the Coset Category of a Skew Lattice
Authors: Costa João Pita
Published: September 2014

Skew lattices are noncommutative generalizations of lattices. The coset structure decomposition is an original approach to the study of these algebras describing the relation between its rectangular classes. In this paper, we will look at the category determined by these rectangular algebras and the morphisms between them, showing that not all skew lattices can determine such a category. Furthermore, we will present a class of examples of skew lattices in rings that are not strictly categorical, and present sufficient conditions for skew lattices of matrices in rings to constitute ^-distributive skew lattices
Single-Valley-Extended Continuous Solutions For The Feigenbaum’S Functional Equation ƒ(ϕ(x))=ϕ2(f(x))
Authors: Zhang Min
Published: September 2014

This work deals with the Feigenbaum’s functional equation in the broad sense

where ϕ2 is the 2-fold iteration of ϕ f(x) is a strictly increasing continuous function on r0; 1s and satisfies f(0)=0; f(x) <x; x Ɛ (0, 1]). Using constructive method, we discuss the existence of single-valley-extended continuous solutions of the above equation.
Coincidence and Fixed Point for Weakly Reciprocally Continuous Single-Valued and Multi-Valued Maps
Authors: Gairola Ajay , Singh Jay , Joshi Mahesh C.
Published: September 2014

In the present paper, we extend the concept ofWeak Reciprocal Continuity for a hybrid pair of single-valued and multi-valued maps and introduce (T; f)-completeness of the space. Further, we establish some results on the existence of coincidence and fixed points for the hybrid pair of maps. Our results generalize several well known results available in the literature
Numerical Effectiveness of Different Formulations of the Rigid Finite Element Method
Authors: Adamiec-Wójcik I. , Drąg Ł. , Wojciech S.
Published: September 2014

The paper presents an application of different formulations of the rigid finite element method (RFEM) to dynamic analysis of flexible beams. We discuss numerical effectiveness of the classical RFEM and an alternative approach in which continuity of displacements is preserved by means of constraint equations. The analysis is carried out for a benchmark problem of the spin-up motion in planar and spatial cases. Torsion is omitted for numerical simulations and two cases of the new approach are considered. The results obtained by means of these methods are compared with the results obtained using a nonlinear two-node superelement
A System for Managing the Quality of Official Statistics
Authors: Biemer Paul , Trewin Dennis , Bergdahl Heather , Japec Lilli
Published: September 2014

This article describes a general framework for improving the quality of statistical programs in organizations that provide a continual flow of statistical products to users and stakeholders. The work stems from a 2011 mandate to Statistics Sweden issued by the Swedish Ministry of Finance to develop a system of quality indicators for tracking developments and changes in product quality and for achieving continual improvements in survey quality across a diverse set of key statistical products. We describe this system, apply it to a number of products at Statistics Sweden, and summarize key results and lessons learned. The implications of this work for monitoring and evaluating product quality in other statistical organizations are also discussed.
Interactions between Marek’s disease virus Rispens/CVI988 vaccine strain and adenovirus field strain in chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cultures
Authors: Niczyporuk J.S. , Woźniakowski G. , Czekaj H. , Samorek-Salamonowicz E.
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of adenovirus infection on the replication of Marek’s disease virus vaccine strain Rispens/CVI988 during in vitro co-infection studies. Adenovirus field strain JN-5/10j was isolated from sick chickens. The study was conducted in chicken embryo fibroblast cultures (CEF). Monolayers of CEFs were infected with Rispens strain and field adenovirus strain JN-5/10j with different doses (101.0-103.0TCID50) in the following manner: a) simultaneously, b) first, infection with Rispens strain and after 24 h infection with adenovirus strain JN-5/10j and c) infection with adenovirus strain JN-5/10j 24 h before infection with Rispens strain. After 18, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of incubation, the copy number of the pp38 gene of Rispens strain was determined using Real-time PCR. The results indicated that the Adenovirus infection before the infection with Rispens strain reduced the replication of the pp38 gene after 48 h by 2 log10.
Influence of selected stool concentration techniques on the effectiveness of PCR examination in Giardia intestinalis diagnostics
Authors: Stojecki K. , Sroka J. , Karamon J. , Kusyk P. , Cencek T.
Published: September 2014

Giardia intestinalis is a widespread parasitic protozoa which has great significance as a public health threat. Molecular diagnostics of stool sample can be unreliable because of the presence of inhibitors of enzymatic reactions. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of selected pre-treatment methods of fecal samples for further PCR-based diagnostics of G. intestinalis, and the effect of each component of pre-treatment solutions on PCR reactions. Seven stool concentration techniques were compared. The results showed that the most efficient concentration method for stool sample preparation for detection of G. intestinalis by PCR is centrifugal flotation with Percoll (with saturated NaNO3as the flotation solution). This method is relatively inexpensive, less labor-intensive, and suitable for epidemiological monitoring and clinical investigations.
The splenocyte proliferative response and cytokine secretion in mice after 28-day oral administration of silver nanocolloid
Authors: Małaczewska J.
Published: September 2014

An increasing number of applications of silver nanoparticles in industry, medicine and everyday life means that the risk of exposure of the human organism to their potential harmful influence is growing. This study has sought to assess the effect of 28-day alimentary administration of different concentrations (0.25, 2.5 and 25 ppm) of a commercial silver nanocolloid on the proliferative activity and synthesis of cytokines by mouse splenocytes.

All of the analyzed doses of the colloid had a significant, albeit different, effect on the activity of splenocytes. At the lowest dose, a significant decrease in the proliferation of T cells and more intensive synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, both by non-stimulated and LPS-stimulated cells, was observed. The intermediate dose, on the other hand, stimulated proliferation of B cells while producing a pro-inflammatory effect regarding the synthesis of cytokines. Finally, the highest dose decreased the synthesis of cytokines by non-stimulated cells, but after LPS stimulation, through the strong activation of the IL-10 synthesis, it raised the proliferation of B cells and decreased the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

The results suggest that silver nanoparticles administered orally have an easy access to the peripheral organs of the immune system, such as the spleen, but the effect of long-term exposure of this organ to the effect of silver nanocolloid depends on several factors, including the dose of nanoparticles, and seems as difficult to predict.
Alternative for improving gut microbiota: use of Jerusalem artichoke and probiotics in diet of weaned piglets
Authors: Valdovska A. , Jemeljanovs A. , Pilmane M. , Zitare I. , Konosonoka I.H. , Lazdins M.
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of Jerusalem artichoke and probiotics on defence activity of intestinal cells of weaning pigs. One hundred eighty piglets (7 weeks old) were fed with basal feed supplemented with Jerusalem artichoke, Lactobacillus reuteri and Pediococcus pentosaceus. After 5 weeks, the piglets were slaughtered and the gastrointestinal contents and intestine samples were taken for analysis. Results demonstrated that in pigs fed basal diet with both probiotics and Jerusalem artichoke (5% of basal diet) (T3 group) had less (P<0.05) faecal Enterobacteriaceae microorganisms and coliforms and had more (P<0,05) faecal Lactobacillus than in pigs from other groups. Increase by 2% of Enterobacteriaceae and E.coli levels were seen only in control piglets (T1 group). E.coli O157 was found at the closing stage in the piglets fed basal diet with only Jerusalem artichoke powder (T2 group), but Salmonella enteritidis - only in T1 group. In jejunum of T2 group piglets, large deterioration of crypts, a moderate inflammation process and plasmocytes were seen, but in jejunum of T3 group piglets - branching of apical surface of villi, moderate degeneration and mitosis of enterocytes were observed. A moderate number of apoptotic cells in T2 group was found mainly in colon inflammation cells and plasmocytes, but for T3 group piglets - both in jejunum enterocytes and migrating cells. Our study indicated that β-defensin 2 and 3 expression in jejunum and colon segments were incresed in T1 and T2 groups. Findings suggest that feeding with probiotics and Jerusalem artichoke significantly improves the microbial contents, defence and regeneration processes in the intestine of pigs.
Effect of inulin extracts or inulin-containing plant supplement on blood lipid indices and fatty acid profile in fattener tissues
Authors: Grela E.R. , Sobolewska S. , Roziński T.
Published: September 2014

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of inulin or dandelion, chicory and Jerusalem artichoke powder on lipid indices and fatty acid profile in fattener tissues. The experiment involved 120 crossbred pigs (PL × PLW) × Duroc with an initial body weight of 25.0 ± 0.5 kg. Animals were assigned into 6 groups. A diet for group I (control) did not comprise an inulin additive, group II and III received 2% inulin (water or water-alcohol extraction of inulin from chicory root, respectively), while the mixtures for group IV, V and VI contained 4% root powder from Jerusalem artichoke (topinambur), chicory or dandelion, respectively. The animals were slaughtered at 115 kg body weight. The samples of blood, liver and the muscle longissimus dorsi tissues as well as whole hearts were collected for analysis. Fatty acid profile, some lipid indices and crude fat and cholesterol content were evaluated. Dietary supplement of 40 g dandelion powder resulted in preferable significant changes in the blood lipid indices and fatty acids composition (increased PUFA share and decreased n-6/n-3 ratio).
Bone marrow-origin stem/progenitor cells in the mammary gland of heifers
Authors: Osińska E. , Godlewski M. M. , Wierzbicki M. , Motyl T.
Published: September 2014

The aim of the study was to estimate the size of bone marrow-origin stem/progenitor population in 2-year old nonpregnant Holstein-Friesian heifers. Quantitative and qualitative analysis was done using scanning cytometry and confocal microscopy of mammary tissue slices labelled with the combination of two markers: Sca-1 (marker of stem-progenitor cells) and CD45 (marker of hematopoietic cells). The average (±SEM) percentage of Sca-1POS CD45POS cells was 0.89 ± 0.21. They were localized mainly outside of mammary ducts, in the stroma and sometimes intraluminally. Our results indicate that the subpopulation of Sca-1POS cells bearing CD45 antigen may enrich the niche of mammary stem/progenitor cells from the bone marrow and participate in the growth of the mammary gland in post-pubertal heifers.
Serum selenium concentration and glutathione peroxidase activity and selenium content in testes of Polish Konik horses from selenium- -deficient area in North-Western Poland
Authors: Pilarczyk B. , Tomza-Marciniak A. , Stankiewicz T. , Błaszczyk B. , Gączarzewicz D. , Smugała M. , Udała J. , Tylkowska A. , Kuba J. , Cieśla A.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to determine serum selenium concentrations in Polish Konik horses residing in the Odra Delta Nature Park (Poland) and to evaluate the activity of glutathione peroxidase and Se content in testes of this horse breed. In over 95% of cases, serum Se concentration was below the optimal range, and none of the horses examined was deficient in this trace element. The lack of Se deficiency in the animals examined suggests however, that the Polish Konik horses have a natural ability to the optimal use of nutrients available in their life area. Testicular content of Se and GSHPx activity in the colts was higher than those found in stallions, and a positive relationship between these antioxidants was demonstrated. The differences in Se contents and GSHPx activities in testes between colts and stallions suggest that selenoenzymes play important roles during the puberty of male horses.
Association between decreased blood pressure and azotaemia in canine babesiosis
Authors: Zygner W. , Gójska-Zygner O.
Published: September 2014

Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) was described in canine babesiosis. Hypotension is considered as one of the factors which influence the development of hypoxic renal damage. In this study hypotension defined as mean arterial pressure (MAP) < 80 mmHg was detected in 7 out of 48 dogs (14.6%) infected with Babesia canis. Lower systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) and MAP were detected in azotaemic dogs infected with B. canis. Statistically significant negative correlations between blood pressures (SAP, DAP and MAP) and serum creatinine and urea concentrations showed the influence of decreased blood pressure on the development of azotaemia and is probably also associated with ATN in canine babesiosis.
Haemorhagic enterotoxemia by Clostridium perfringens type C and type A in silver foxes
Authors: Jarosz Ł.S. , Grądzki Z. , Śmiech A. , Kalinowski M.
Published: September 2014

Type C and type A of C. perfringens were detected in the seat of natural infections in silver foxes characterized by symptoms of haemorrhagic enterotoxemia. In all of the dead foxes characteristic changes were noted in the small intestine and parenchymatous organs. The production of alpha and beta toxins by isolated bacteria was confirmed by the bioassay using white mice and by PCR. The results of the drug sensitivity testing showed that isolated strains were highly susceptible to amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, metronidazole, doxycycline and penicillin with streptomycin
SOM230: A New Therapeutic Modality for Cushing's Disease
Authors: Lewis Ian , Schmid Herbert A. , Kneuer Rainer , Hoyer Daniel , Silva Antonio P. , Weckbecker Gisbert , Bruns Christian , Pless Janos
Published: September 2014

A rational drug design approach involving transposition of functional groups from SRIF into a reduced size cyclohexapeptide template has led to the discovery of SOM230, a novel, stable cyclohexapeptide somatostatin mimic which exhibits unique high affinity binding to human somatostatin
receptors (sst1-5). This unique receptor subtype binding profile, in particular the exceptional high affinity binding to sst5, led to SOM230 being approved by EMEA and FDA in 2012 as the first effective pituitary directed therapeutic modality for Cushing's disease.
Adventures in Drug-like Chemistry Space: From Oxetanes to Spiroazetidines and Beyond!
Authors: Rogers-Evans Mark , Knust Henner , Plancher Jean-Marc , Carreira Erick M. , Wuitschik George , Burkhard Johannes , Li Dong B. , Guérot Carine
Published: September 2014

Recently we have documented research efforts aimed at new classes of oxetanes as well as spiroheteroalicyclic ring systems (which we have termed 'Compact Modules') designed to expand the palette of tailored module scaffolds available to medicinal chemists, which constitute an important
role for synthetic chemistry in the drug discovery process. An essential component for this process is to provide access to specific molecular topologies with functional group diversity, essential for generating leads that discriminate among biological targets, therefore promoting selectivity and enhancing the safety profile of the final clinical candidates.
Porcelain laminate veneer - a conservative treatment in restoration of anterior teeth defect
Authors: Rashid F
Published: August 2014

In this study, 100% of the patients were satisfied aesthetically after 6 months and 12 months. 100% patients presented without the complaint of sensitivity after 6 and 12 months. 100% of the patients presented with healthy periodontium after 6 and 12 months. De bonding and porcelain fracture were found in 10% in both the cases after 12 months. No complaint against aesthetic and sensitivity was recorded after 12 months. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20249 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 53-55
Efficacy of Two Rotary Instruments For Gutta Percha Removal During Root Canal Retreatment
Authors: Dhillon JS , Bhagat A , Chhabra G
Published: August 2014

Aim - Evaluate the efficacy of Pro Taper and Pro Taper Retreatment instruments in the removal of gutta-percha during retreatment of straight root canals in comparison with Hedstrom files. Methodology -The root canals of 30 Maxillary central incisors were instrumented by step back procedure and obturated with lateral condensation before the teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 10 specimens each i.e. Group I-using Hfiles, Group 2- using Pro Taper and Group 3- using Pro Taper retreatment. Radiographs were taken after the filling removal and the canal wall cleanliness was evaluated. Roots were divided into apical, middle and coronal parts and scored on a scale of 0 (no debris), 1(25-50% of walls covered with debris and 3 (>50% of walls covered with debris).Number of fractured instruments were also evaluated in each group. Results-There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the three groups in terms of the debris seen radio graphically after retreatment. Conclusion - All systems evaluated ex vivo were equally effective in removing gutta percha during retreatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20250 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 56-60
Self-reported Oral and Dental Health Status among the Pregnant Women of a Selected Hospital in Dhaka City
Authors: Hassan MR , Dithi AB , Nomann NA , Nessa J , Saito T
Published: August 2014

Aims: The aims of this study were to gain an understanding of pregnant women s oral hygiene practices and to assess the oral and dental health status. Materials and Methods: A semi - structured questionnaire was completed by 100 pregnant women of the gynecology department of Dr. Akhter Jahan Mirza Hospital, Dhaka. Results: The women in this study 40% were in 19-22 years age group. Forty eight percent (48%) women of the subjects were having up to high school level education & 28% had low income of Sixty Thousand to One Lac taka yearly. In relation to oral hygiene habit before pregnancy majority of the women (56%) stated that they brush their teeth once a day, 19% use dental floss and 14% use mouth rinse once a day. During pregnancy women seemed to be slightly more concerned about oral hygiene but not significantly. Only 66% brush their teeth and 17% floss their teeth and 18% use mouth rinse once a day during pregnancy. The major problem in their mouth noticed by the women during pregnancy was bleeding gums (58%). Conclusion: This study feels the necessity of giving special attention to pregnant women s oral health in Bangladesh. Women should be educated on good oral hygiene practices so as to minimize prevalence of poor maternal oral health during pregnancy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20251 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 61-64
Infection Control Measures in Some Selected Private Dental Clinics of Dhaka City
Authors: Ahmed I , Barua J , Imtiaz KS , Eusufzal SZ , Mustafa MT , Haque MM , Jamayet NB
Published: August 2014

Infection is one of the most vital problems in health care service worldwide. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the standard and level of current infection control practice in the Dental clinics in Dhaka city. A total 110 purposively selected respondents participated in this study, most of them were from middle age group. Among them 68% were male and 32% were female. 62% respondents had graduate level education. By length of practice duration 53.6% had 5-10 years experience and 30.0% treat average 5-10 patients daily. Among the total respondents 77% of Dental surgeons were vaccinated against tetanus and hepatitis and 56% of respondents used to wash hands by water with soap. Within the total participating dentists 66% gave the history of habitual wearing of disposable gloves, 70.0% used disposable masks and 26.4% wore disposable clothes. The study also reported that, 44% of respondents usually washed clinical contact surface in the dental operatory by disinfectants and 33% of respondents cleaned the operatory surfaces after patient's treatment by water and antiseptics. The study revealed that almost all dental surgeons used to use the disposable instruments & accessories in the clinic, 4I% clinicians used dettol in the clinic as disinfecting solution and 35.8% respondents sterilized their instruments by autoclave. The research work found that 73.6% respondents mentioned to clean the prosthodontic instruments by detergent wash, 68.2% mentioned to use glass bid sterilizer to sterilize the endodontic instruments and 68% reported about surgical instruments to sterilize by autoclave just after cleaning with detergent wash without using the disinfectant solutions. This study also found that 77.3% disposed the sharp instruments in plastic container, 20.9% maintained color code during disposal of medical wastes and 58.2% respondents used to dispose medical wastes with general wastes. The study revealed that 69.1% cleaned the non patient area by mop and detergent only. According to the agreements of the respondent's 71% reported that very few of the patients complained about secondary infection, 81% gave no history of cross infection after receiving operative procedure. 50.9% respondents mentioned about participation in training session on infection control procedure at least once in their lifetime. Policy on immunization should be developed for Dental health workers and farther studies involving larger sample size is recommended. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20252 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 65-69
Oral Effects of Renal Disease: A Medical Problem in Dentistry
Authors: Mahmud SZ , Uddin MM , Eusufzai SZ , Nomann NA , Hossain SM , Tarafder MA
Published: August 2014

The number of patients with chronic kidney disease especially with diabetic nephropathy is expected to grow significantly in the future. It is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality, and the consequence of this emerging public health problem is considerable consumption of medical and financial resources. Thereby, there is a higher chance to see such patients in a dental office. People with kidney disease and those on dialysis are more likely to have periodontal disease and other oral health problems than the general population. Build up of bacteria in the mouth can cause infection. Because people with kidney disease have weakened immune systems, they are more susceptible to infections. Moreover, bone loss in the jaw can occur in those with kidney disease. Calcium imbalance contributes to loss of calcium from the bones resulting in weak bones. Weak bones can cause teeth to become loose and potentially fall out. The doctor may recommend antibiotics be taken prior to the dental procedure to help guard against infection. The purpose of this article is to evaluate oral and dental manifestations in patients on haemodialysis and kidney transplant recipients, and understanding the use and adjustment of common dental drugs which aid clinicians in safely treating these patients as well as to clarify the possible basic role in managing renal disease patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20253 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 70-77
Recent Trends in Non-Surgical Periodontal Care for the General Dentist - A Review
Authors: Arpita R , Swetha JL , Babu MR , Sudhir R
Published: August 2014

The management of periodontal defects has been an ongoing challenge in clinical periodontics. In the recent past, attention has been focused more on regenerative and reconstructive therapies i.e. bone grafts, guided tissue regeneration, root conditioning, polypeptide growth factors, rather than on respective therapies. These therapeutic measures are shown to be limited in the predictability of healing and regenerative response in the modem clinical practice because oral environment presents several complicating factors that border regeneration. The 21st century appears to represent a time in history when there is a convergence between clinical dentistry and medicine, human genetics, developmental and molecular biology, biotechnology, bioengineering, and bioinformatics, resulting in the emergence of novel regenerative therapeutic approaches and focusing mainly on non surgical modalities. The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the various non surgical therapies in use today. Future direction in this ever-changing field is also discussed. Techniques currently in use are reviewed and evaluated. They include Probiotics, Ozone therapy, Photodynamic therapy, Gene therapy, RNA interference, Nanotechnology, Perioprotect, TIPS & BOST. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20254 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 78-82
Intra oral periapical radiography - basics yet intrigue: A review
Authors: Gupta A , Devi P , Srivastava R , Jyoti B
Published: August 2014

There had been a long standing requirement for dental students which would help them to understand the basic techniques for intraoral periapical radiographs. Intra oral periapical radiography is an adjunct to the clinical examination and provides useful information about the joint components. The periapical view shows the entire crown and root of the teeth which provides vital information to aid in the diagnosis of the most common dental diseases. This article highlights the basic principle, techniques, advantages and disadvantages of intraoral periapical radiography. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20255 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 83-87
Median rhomboid glossitis with palatal 'kissing lesion'-A case report
Authors: Bihari M , Srivastava R , Jyoti B , Mehrotra V , Gupta M , Pradhan S
Published: August 2014

Median rhomboid glossitis manifests as a well-delineated erythematous area located along the midline posterior dorsal tongue. Its rhomboid shape usually "points" in an antero-posterior direction. Median rhomboid glossitis may have a "kissing lesion," or area of roughness, most commonly in the area of the hard and soft palate. Here is a case report of 24 year old male patient having median rhomboid glossitis with kissing lesions over the hard palate. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjdre.v4i2.20273 Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.4(2) 2014: 94-97
Beckett's Bedrooms: On Dirty Things and Thing Theory
Authors: Price Alexander
Published: September 2014

This article draws on Bill Brown's ‘Thing Theory’ alongside more recent theoretical approaches to ‘things’ in order to investigate the peculiar depictions of filthy bedroom items that appear in Samuel Beckett's early works for screen. Focusing predominantly on the teleplay Eh Joe, the article discusses the manner in which Beckett's evocations of physical dirtiness persistently problematise and abstract the conventional functionality of everyday domestic objects in his work, not only causing ordinary items to seem less familiar and increasingly ambiguous, but also impacting upon the way that characters engage with their physical surroundings. By acknowledging and analysing these odd renderings of the material everyday the article attempts to shed new light on Beckett's artistic and conceptual interest in the physical world, and, furthermore, suggest that this interest may have played an important role in shaping Beckett's distinctive dramatic practice.
Endurance Sport and “Cardiac Injury”: A Prospective Study of Recreational Ironman Athletes
Authors: Leischik Roman , Spelsberg Norman
Published: September 2014

Background: Participation in triathlon competitions has increased in recent years. Many studies have described left or right ventricular injury in endurance athletes. The goal of this study was to examine the right and left ventricular cardiac structures and function and dynamic cardio-pulmonary performance in a large cohort of middle- and long-distance triathletes. Methods: 87 triathletes (54 male and 33 female) were examined using spiroergometry and echocardiography. The inclusion criterion was participation in at least one middle- or long distance triathlon. Results: Male triathletes showed a maximum oxygen absorption of 58.1 ± 8.6 mL/min/kg (female triathletes 52.8 ± 5.7 mL/min/kg), maximum ergometer performance of 347.8 ± 49.9 W (female triathletes 264.5 ± 26.1 W). Left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) was normal (male triathletes EF: 61.9% ± 3%, female triathletes EF: 63.0% ± 2.7%) and systolic right ventricular area change fraction (RV AFC%) showed normal values (males RV AFC%: 33.5% ± 2.2%, females 32.2% ± 2.8%). Doppler indices of diastolic function were normal in both groups. With respect to the echocardiographic readings the left ventricular mass for males and females were 217.7 ± 41.6 g and 145.9 ± 31.3 g, respectively. The relative wall thickness for males was 0.50 ± 0.07, whereas it was 0.47 ± 0.09 for females. The probability of left ventricular mass >220 g increased with higher blood pressure during exercise (OR: 1.027, CI 1.002–1.052, p = 0.034) or with higher training volume (OR: 1.23, CI 1.04–1.47, p = 0.019). Conclusions: Right or left ventricular dysfunction could not be found, although the maximal participation in triathlon competitions was 29 years. A left ventricular mass >220 g is more likely to occur with higher arterial pressure during exercise and with a higher training volume.
Anthracene Fibers Grown in a Microstructured Optical Fiber for X-ray Detection
Authors: DeHaven Stanton , Wincheski Russell , Albin Sacharia
Published: September 2014

Anthracene fibers are grown inside a microstructured quartz matrix to form a multicore optical fiber for X-ray detection. A modified fiber growth method for single crystal anthracene from the melt via the Bridgman-Stockbarger technique is presented. The anthracene fiber is characterized by using spectrophotometry, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. These results show the anthracene grown in fiber has high purity and a crystal structure similar to anthracene grown from liquid, vapor, and melt techniques. As an X-ray detector, the output is 12%–16% efficient between the energy ranges of 40 and 10 keV. The effect of materials and fiber processing are discussed.
Anti-Stress Action of an Orally-Given Combination of Resveratrol, β-Glucan, and Vitamin C
Authors: Vetvicka Vaclav , Vetvickova Jana
Published: September 2014

Stress has repeatedly been found to reduce the abilities of the immune system to fight against individual attacks. The current dissatisfaction with classical medications has led to more attention being focused on natural molecules. As recent studies have suggested that some bioactive molecules can have synergistic effects in stimulation of immune system and reduction of stress, we have evaluated the stress-reducing effects of the resveratrol-β-glucan-vitamin C combination. We found that compared to its individual components, this combination was the strongest reducer of stress-related symptoms, including corticosterone levels and IL-6, IL-12 and IFN-γ production.