bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groin Flap: A Good Converge for Hand Injury
Authors: Shamsuzzaman Md , Uddin SK Borhan , Masoom Md , Islam Md Anowarul , Haque Azizul
Published: October 2008

Fifty cases of hand trauma of different aetiology with soft tissue loss with exposed tendons and bones were treated in NITOR and DMCH, Dhaka between January '97 and December '02 with groin flap. Eighty three percent (83%) cases have good results with excellent flap adhesion and no flap loss. Seventeen percent (17%) cases have some degree of flap loss which were taken to be acceptable. Overall result in terms of restoring the hand function was encouraging which was approximately eighty eight percent (88%). Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1357 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 15-19
Primary Hyper Parathyroidism
Authors: Chowdhury Md Faizul Islam , Khandaker MAK , Zaid Hossain M , Saha Biplab Kumar , Hossain Md Murad
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i1.1361 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 39-41
Ethical Issues in Medical Research & Publications
Authors: Islam Quazi Tarikul , Rafiquddin AKM
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1362 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 42-44
Consciousness about Informed Consent amongst the Researcher in a Postgraduate Institute of Bangladesh
Authors: Shakoor MA , Ullah MD Ahsan , Rahman Md Shahidur , Saha Anup Kumar , Ar-Rashid Harun
Published: October 2008

To assess the consciousness about informed consent (IC) of the researchers, a study was conducted in a postgraduate institute in Dhaka, Bangladesh from Dec' 2003 to Jan' 2004. A total of 39 researchers responded properly. All subjects were doctors who have completed a research work previously. A written questionnaire was given to the respondents to answer the questions about IC and then it was collected properly with the answer of the participants. The data was analyzed statistically. Most of the respondents 84.60% agreed that IC is a written consent and 94.90% respondents agreed that it includes risk and benefit. Maximum participants (97.40%) agreed that child's consent is not valid for a study, 89.70 % researchers agreed that confidentiality should be included in IC and 76.90% agreed that IC should include the duration of the study. 71.60% respondents agreed to give autonomy to the subject, 48.70% disagreed that the witness is necessary during taking IC, 66.70% respondents took IC from the study subjects during their study & 33.30 % had not taken any consent. From the present study, it can be concluded that most of the researchers of the concerned institute are knowledgeable about IC but many of them has no attitude to apply it in practice. As there is evidence of negligence to practice on IC during conducting research, awareness should be grown up amongst the researchers by conducting seminar, symposium and workshop to protect human rights during clinical trial. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1363 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 46-50 Â
The Fasciocutaneous Flap: Itâs Use In Soft Tissue Defects Of The Lower Leg
Authors: Shamsuzzaman Md , Kamal Md Israr , Masoom Md , Islam Md Anowarul
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1365 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 54-57
Thyroiditis â A Review
Authors: Begum Afsana , Bari Md Shafiqul , Ayaz KFM , Yasmin Rubina , Rajib NC , Rashid MA , Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Siddiqui FM
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1366 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 58-63
Addisonâs Disease in Children
Authors: Rashid AKM Mamunur , Hassan MA , Mahboob AA , Mamun Abdullah Al , Alam Md Billal , Azad KAK
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v7i2.1368 J MEDICINE 2006; 7 : 70-72
Unethical and Unauthorized Medical Practice- An Alarming Situation
Authors: Chowdhury Fazle Rabbi , Alam Md Billal
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1369 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 1-2
Human Rabies in Bangladesh â A Study of 684 Cases
Authors: Rahman M Matiur , Salimuzzaman M , Alam MD Billal , Rouf MA , Hossain M Jakir , Rahman M Ridwanur
Published: October 2008

This descriptive study in the Infectious Disease Hospital, Dhaka, on rabies was carried out to see the patterns of presentation, age group at risk, state of vaccination following animal exposure and the interval between animal exposure and the development of the disease. Of 684 cases of rabies from June 1999 to November 2003, majority (64.18%) of the victims were within 15 years of age. Male gender (76.75%) and rural people (86.40%) constituted the bulk of the cases. 80.26% of cases had WHO category III exposure. Most of the cases were not vaccinated (86.04%). Among 93 cases who received vaccine, only 9.67% took tissue culture vaccine and 90.3% were treated with nerve tissue vaccine. None of the 684 cases were treated with RIG. Dog was the principal animal responsible for 95.76% cases. 65.93% of the cases developed the disease between 31 to 100 days after the animal exposure. DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1370 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 3-6 Â Â
Clinical Profile And Risk Association of DVT
Authors: Miah Md Titu , Hoque AKM Aminul , Rashid Md Harun Ur , Mahmood Tarek , Khan Raihan Rotap , Sarkar Shyamal
Published: October 2008

This prospective study was conducted in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital over a period of one year among the diagnosed patients of DVT in medicine units to find out the disease association and risk factors. Mean age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 37.8years with a standard deviation of 12.73 years with an even distribution. There was a mild female preponderance (M: F=2:3). 72.5% and 27.5% of the patients were admitted with unilateral and bilateral leg swelling respectively. No established risk factors was found about 30% of case OCP and malignancy account for highest number of association almost 22.5 % to each and other associated conditions were congestive cardiac failure (7.5%), post partum period (7.5%), renal impairment (7.5%) and prolonged immobilization (2.5%) . 92.5% patients enjoyed resolution while 7.5 patients died. Among three patients who died, two were male and one was female. However, thrombotic scan was not available and can not be offered to any patients. Almost all the findings of this study correlate well with other previous studies except age distribution for which further evaluation may be necessary. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1372Â  J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 7-9
Jaundice in Pediatric Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) Patients
Authors: Rashid AKM Mamunur , Mamun Abdulla Al , Rasul CH , Afrafuzzaman Md , Hossain Mukter , Rahman Md Mujibur
Published: October 2008

Visceral leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) is endemic in many countries including Bangladesh. Clinical presentation of visceral leishmaniasis in children and adult may vary and at time may simulate many tropical and hepatobilliary diseases. Jaundice and ascites is not common in some patients. In this series of eleven cases Jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly and ascites are present in 55%, 100%, 91%, 27% of cases respectively. So, Kala-azar should be kept in mind while dealing with cases of many such clinical findings. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1374 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 14-16
Rosai Dorfman Disease
Authors: Chowdhury Md Faizul Islam , Khandaker MA Kashem , Zaid Hossain M , Khatun Hazera , Hossain Md Murad , Karim Enamul
Published: October 2008

Mr. Shahinoor an 18 year old male got himself admitted at DMCH in July,2007 with the complaints of bilateral neck swelling and fever for 1 month. The enlarged lymph nodes were clustered in cervical regions involving both anterior and posterior chains and largest one measuring 5 cmÃ2.5 cm.He was otherwise healthy on examination. Full blood count showed neutrophil leukocytosis and raised ESR.Sputum for AFB was found negative and xray chest was normal. FNA of lymph node showed non specific lymphadenitis with reactive hyperplasis. Lymph node biopsy was done and histopathology revealed Rosai Dorfman Disease, a very rare yet fascinating disorder also called Sinus Histiocytosis with Massive Lymphadenopathy.It is a benign proliferative disorder of the histiocytes. He was not given any tretament and is under follow up. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i1.1376 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 28-31
Drug Resistance in Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Ahasan HAM Nazmul
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1402J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 37-38
Views of the Students and Teachers about the New Curriculum (Curriculum 2002) and Their Opinion on in-Course Assessment System
Authors: Ahmed Abida , Begum Momotaj , Begum Shameema , Akhter Rezina , Rahman Nilufar , Khatun Ferpza
Published: October 2008

Background: The academic activities of the 1st and 2nd year MBBS students are running according to the new curriculum (Curriculum 2002). Curriculum is a series of planned activities to which the learner may be exposed in order to achieve the learning goals. But due to ongoing modifications of society, disease demography, medical science, concepts of teaching and availability of newer technique; curriculum may need to be changed. Assessment is the process of testing a student's ability. A good assessment should be valid, reliable, practicable and objective. Without assessment the purpose of effective teaching will not fulfill. To change curricula, examination system or assessment system also needs to be changed. Though evaluation of students is an integral part of all educational processes, a suitable evaluation procedure is said to be lacking. So opinions of teachers as well as students are immensely important to develop an ideal evaluation procedure. Methodology: This cross-sectional prospective study was done in Dhaka Medical college over a period of 1 months.2nd year MBBS students( 100) and teachers of Physiology, Anatomy and Biochemistry (22) gave their opinion in this study in a mixed pattern of questionnaire ( both open-ended and closed) . Results: Majority of students( 84%) but minority of teachers opined that there was need of card completion examination as in course assessment system .Other teachers and students suggested for alternate examination instead of card completion examination like only MCQ (18%), both MCQ and SAQ (82%). Choice of venue of the examination were - tutorial class (58%), lecture class (21%), practical and tutorial class (21%). Discussion: Though present MBBS curriculum is a problem oriented scientific curriculum with modern concepts like MCQ, OSPE, SAQ and SOE; the teachers are facing a lot of problems in implementing the curriculum due to lack of orientation and shortage of manpower. Conclusion: In spite of criticisms Curriculum 2002 is a positive change in an academic field. In order to improve and update the curriculum; its planning should be constantly reviewed. Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1404 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 39-43
Cutaneous Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Parveen Nahid , Das Dipak Kumar , Haque FRM Mahbubul , Haque Mahamudun Nabi Mohammad Momtazul
Published: October 2008

Systemic lupus erythematosus (LE) is a heterogeneous, multisystem, autoimmune disease characterized by the production of auto-antibodies against several cell constituents. The skin is one of the target organs most variably affected by the disease can be yield valuable diagnostic & prognostic information. The present study was conducted to evaluate cutaneous manifestations of SLE in Bangladeshi patients. 100 cases of SLE were collected from the Department of Dermatology, BSMMU, Dhaka. The diagnosis was based on American Rheumatism Association Criteria. Cutaneous changes were recorded on a predevised pro forma. LE specific cutaneous changes noted were: Malar rash or butterfly rash (70.0%), maculopapular rash (19.0%), discoid rash (10.0%), and bullous LE (10.0%). Non specific LE lesions noted were: Photosensitivity (75.0%), alopecia (47.0%), oral mucosal lesion (34.0%), hyperpigmentation (20.0%), nail change (15.0%), Raynauds phenomenon (12.0%), Palmar erythema, genital lesion, periungual talangiectesia, leg ulcers, livedo reticularis, erythema multiform were rare. Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystem disease that predominantly affects women. Cutaneous lesions are the most important diagnostic tools as reflected by the fact that they account for four of the 11 revised American Rheumatism Association criteria of SLE. The pattern of skin changes may vary from place to place. Key Words: SLE, LE specific and non specific cutaneous lesions Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1405 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 44-48
Platelet Phaeresis for Component Therapy in Dhaka Medical College- A Study of 26 Procedures
Authors: Banu Laila Arjumand , Hossain Kazi Nowshad
Published: October 2008

Platelet separation by aphaeresis machine from single donor was started in Blood Transfusion Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital, from 10th April 2002. This study includes 26 procedures done in this dept. from the period of 10th April 2002 to 4th June 2003. Observation showed that demand of platelet came from different wards for different types of diseases such as , for Dengue- 8 cases, for Aplastic anaemia-2 cases, for Ovarian tumour-2 cases, for Caesarian section post operative DIC -2 cases, for AML with low platelet count -3 cases, for IUD with low platelet count -1 case, for Blood cancer -1 case , for NHL chemotherapy induced thrombocytopenia- 1 case , for Dengue Shock Syndrome - 1 case , 5 units donated in Shishu Hospital . Platelet was supplied according to group specific of the patient. Such as, 12 cases were O +ve, 10 cases were B +ve ,3 cases were A+ve and 1 case was AB+ve. Â Â Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1407 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 53-56
Plasma Fibrinogen Level, Platelet Aggregation and Platelet Count in Stable Angina
Authors: Begum Momotaj , Hai Ma , Chowdhury ASM Lokman Hossain , Begum Noorjahan
Published: October 2008

This was a prospective study. The study was done from July 1997 to June 98. All the cases were selected from the outdoor patients of National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Controls were selected from healthy volunteers. The plasma fibrinogen level, platelet aggregation and platelet count were studied on a total number of 35 subjects with age ranged from 40-60 years of both sexes. Of these 20 were normal healthy subjects and 15 were patients with stable angina. Plasma fibrinogen level were normal as like as healthy subjects. Platelet aggreagations were increased in some cases but others show normal findings. The platelet count were slightly decreased but it was within normal range. Form this study it may be observed that normal plasma fibrinogen level and increased platelet aggregation with normal platelet count may occur in patients with stable angina. The increased platelet aggregation indicate hypercoagulable states which may aggravate the condition of patients with stable angina and this is the risk factor for the further development of severe ischemia of the heart. So, the routine investigation of plasma fibrinogen level, platelet aggregation and platelet count may be helpful to utilize them as background information both for therapeutic and preventive measures in patients with stable angina. Â Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1408 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 57-59
A Comparative Treatment Results of Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy followed by Radiotherapy versus Radiotherapy Alone
Authors: Salam B , Perveen I , Faruque GM , Mohammed AKMG
Published: October 2008

Background: Studies suggest that neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to radiotherapy results in improved response and survival in large primary lesion. This study aimed to evaluate the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to radiotherapy in patients with localized oesophageal cancer. Method: In this randomized controlled study 60 selected cases of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma were randomized to Arm-A & Arm-B. Patients assigned to combination therapies(Arm- A) received two cycles (4 weekly) of injectable 5- fluorouracil(400mg/m2/day for five days ) and mitomicin C (7mg/ m2 on D1) as neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to radiotherapy(44GY in 22 fractions). Patients of Arm-B received radiotherapy alone as in arm-A. Treatment responses were compared following completion of treatment at six and 12 weeks. Complete response was defined as no difficulty in swallowing and no visible growth in follow-up barium swallow X-Ray. Partial response was defined as difficulty in swallowing semisolids but not liquids and persistence of residual growth in barium swallow X-Ray. Results: The study initially enrolled 68 patients but eight patients dropped out. Complete response occurred in 66.6% (20) patients who received combination therapies (n=30), where as in 40% (12) patients who received radiotherapy alone (P= < 0.05). Partial response occurred in 33.33% patients assigned to have pre-irradiation chemotherapy and in 60% patients having radiotherapy alone. Toxicities like dysphagia, anorexia, vomiting was more in combination therapy group, but it was acceptable. Conclusion: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radiation therapy demonstrated better response than radiation alone at the expense of toxicity in patients with localized oesophageal cancer. Â DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1409 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 60-63
Review on Efficacy of Lumber Traction on Low Back Pain
Authors: Rahman Md Shahidur , Uddin Mohd Taslim , Ahsanulla Md
Published: October 2008

Back pain is a problem to health professionals and to the society. Low back pain is now one of the most common reasons for work loss, health care use and sickness benefit. There are many causes of low back pain. Non-specific mechanical low back pain is most common. Treatment options include surgical and conservative. Conservative treatment is usually given with analgesics, thermo therapy and lumber traction. Treatment plan and referral is made on the basis of judgment on clinical findings. The aim of the present review was to assess the efficacy of traction for LBP patients with or without radiating pain. To reflect clinical practice, we need to understand the clinical parameters and treatment regimes being used by clinicians, and these must be addressed before a trial can be designed to look further at the effectiveness of traction for LBP with or without radiating pain. The evidence for the use of traction in LBP remains inconclusive because of the continued lack of methodological rigor and the limited application of clinical parameters as used in clinical practice. Keywords: Low back pain, Lumber traction, Efficacy. Â Â Â  DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1412 J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 69-73
Focal Cortical Dysplasia Presented with Stroke
Authors: Uddin Md Main , Mohammed Fazle Rabbi , Chowdhury Fazle Rabbi , Rahim Abdur
Published: October 2008

DOI = 10.3329/jom.v8i2.1415Â J MEDICINE 2007; 8 : 81-82
Y haplogroups and aggressive behavior in a Pakistani ethnic group
Authors: Shah S. Shoaib , Ayub Q. , Firasat S. , Kaiser F. , Mehdi S. Q.
Published: October 2008

Studies show that personality dimensions such as aggression are influenced by genetic factors and that allelic variants located on the Y chromosome influence such behavior. We investigated polymorphisms on the male‐specific region of the human Y chromosome in 156 unrelated males from the same ethnic background, who were administered the Punjabi translation of the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire that measures four aspects that constitute aggressive behavior, i.e. physical aggression, verbal aggression, anger, and hostility. A value of .85 for Cronbach's coefficient α indicates considerable internal consistency and suggests that the psychometric properties of the aggression questionnaire can be adapted for the Pakistani population. A mean score±SD of 69.70±19.95 was obtained for the questionnaire. Each individual was genotyped following a phylogenetic hierarchical approach to define evolutionary Y haplogroups. Five Y haplogroups that are commonly found in Eurasia and Pakistan comprised 87% (n=136) of the population sample, with one haplogroup, R1a1, constituting 55% of the sampled population. A comparison of the total and four subscale mean scores across the five common Y haplogroups that were present at a frequency ≥3% in this ethnic group revealed no overall significant differences. However, effect‐size comparisons allowed us to detect an association of the haplogroups R2 (Cohen's d statistic=.448–.732) and R1a1 (d=.107–.448) with lower self‐reported aggression mean scores in this population. Aggr. Behav. 35:68–74, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of recent incidents of on‐field violence in sport: legal decisions and additional considerations from psychology
Authors: Kerr John H.
Published: October 2008

This article focuses on two recent incidents of serious on‐field violence in sports and the legal consequences for those involved. The two incidents occurred in Dutch football (soccer) and became infamous owing to the nature of the violent incidents and widespread media coverage. The legal outcomes of these two incidents are described, and some of the difficulties that legal authorities face in considering assaults on the sports field are discussed. A new way of categorizing such violent incidents and the motivation behind them, based on an established psychological theory [reversal theory, Apter, 1982, 2001] is proposed. Taken along with the other points made in this article, being aware of when and how individuals cross the boundaries between play and anger, power or thrill violence may provide an additional perspective to making informed decisions about illegal violent acts on the sports field. Aggr. Behav. 35:41–48. 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fluorenone‐Based Molecules for Bulk‐Heterojunction Solar Cells: Synthesis, Characterization, and Photovoltaic Properties
Authors: Lincker Frédéric , Delbosc Nicolas , Bailly Séverine , De Bettignies Rémi , Billon Martial , Pron Adam , Demadrille Renaud
Published: October 2008

A series of four conjugated molecules consisting of a fluorenone central unit symmetrically coupled to different oligothiophene segments are conceptually designed and synthesized to provide new electroactive materials for application in photovoltaic devices. The combination of electron‐donating oligothiophene building blocks with an electron‐accepting fluorenone unit results in the emergence of a new band assigned to an intramolecular charge transfer transition that gives rise to the extension of the absorption spectral range of the resulting molecules. Detailed spectroscopic and voltammetric investigations show that all studied molecules have highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level positions, which make them good candidates for the application as electron‐donors in bulk‐heterojunction photovoltaic cells, with (6,6)‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM)‐C60 as electron acceptor component. Moderate device performances, with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) comprised between 0.3 and 0.6%, were obtained with rigid molecules, containing either the bridging units between the thiophene rings, i.e., (2,7‐bis(4,4′‐dioctyl‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophen‐2‐yl)‐fluoren‐9‐one (SCPTF) and 2,7‐bis(4‐(dioctylmethylene)‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophen‐5‐yl)‐fluoren‐9‐one (MCPTF) or a vinylene unit 2,7‐bis(5‐[(E)‐1,2‐bis(3‐octylthien‐2‐yl)ethylene])‐fluoren‐9‐one (TVF), whereas with (2,7‐bis‐(3,3‴‐dioctyl‐[2,2′;5′,2″;5″,2‴]quaterthiophen‐5‐yl)‐fluoren‐9‐one (QTF) PCE up to 1.2% (under AM 1.5 illumination, 100 mW cm−2, active area 0.28 cm2) was obtained. The strong π‐stacking interactions in the solid state for this oligomer leading to improved morphology could explain the good performances of QTF‐based devices, which rank among the highest recorded for non‐polymeric materials. Consequently, fluorenone‐based non‐polymeric molecules constitute highly attractive materials for solution‐processable solar cell applications.
Pure‐Silica‐Zeolite MFI and MEL Low‐Dielectric‐Constant Films with Fluoro‐Organic Functionalization
Authors: Lew Christopher M. , Li Zijian , Li Shuang , Hwang Son‐Jong , Liu Yan , Medina Dora I. , Sun Minwei , Wang Junlan , Davis Mark E. , Yan Yushan
Published: October 2008

The synthesis of organic‐functionalized pure‐silica‐zeolites (PSZs) with MFI‐ and MEL‐type structures for low‐k applications prepared through a direct‐synthesis method by adding a fluorinated silane to the synthesis solution is reported. The added fluorine functionality increases the hydrophobicity of the zeolites, which are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, 29Si and 19F solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption, and thermogravimetric analysis. The functionalized zeolite powders have low water content and calcined spin‐on films prepared from the functionalized nanoparticle suspensions exhibit higher water contact angles and lower k values (2.1 and 1.8 for the functionalized MFI‐ and MEL‐type zeolites, respectively) than PSZ films. The use of a direct‐synthesis method to decrease the moisture adsorption in the films eliminates the extra post‐spin‐on silylation steps that are traditionally used to render the zeolite films hydrophobic.
Polymeric Rulers: Distance‐Dependent Emission Behaviors of Fluorophores on Flat Gold Surfaces and Bioassay Platforms Using Plasmonic Fluorescence Enhancement
Authors: Chi Young Shik , Byon Hye Ryung , Lee Bong Soo , Kong Bokyung , Choi Hee Cheul , Choi Insung S.
Published: October 2008

In this paper, we introduce the concept of a “polymeric ruler” for investigating distance‐dependent emission behaviors of fluorophores, namely the quenching or enhancement of fluorescence, on flat Au surfaces in the range of 5 to ∼100 nm, which has not previously been easily accessible. The polymeric ruler is constructed by a highly controllable surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization of oligo(ethylene glycol)methacrylate (OEGMA), and the obtained thicknesses of the poly(OEGMA) (pOEGMA) layers range from ∼5 to ∼80 nm. The quenching or enhancement of fluorescence is found to be dependent upon the distance between fluorophores and the Au surface. In brief, fluorescence quenching occurs at distances within about 15 nm from the Au surface, and surface‐enhanced fluorescence is observed at tens of nanometers beyond the range of quenching with the maximum enhancement at about 40–50 nm. The obtained information on the distance‐dependent surface‐enhanced fluorescence is applied to the construction of highly sensitive bioassay platforms: the use of the 50 nm thick pOEGMA layer lowers the detection limit up to 1 pM.
High‐Conductivity Polymer Nanocomposites Obtained by Tailoring the Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube Fillers
Authors: Grossiord Nadia , Loos Joachim , van Laake Lucas , Maugey Maryse , Zakri Cécile , Koning Cor E. , Hart A. John
Published: October 2008

We present a detailed study of the influence of carbon nanotube (CNT) characteristics on the electrical conductivity of polystyrene nanocomposites produced using a latex‐based approach. We processed both industrially‐produced multi‐wall CNT (MWCNT) powders and MWCNTs from vertically‐aligned films made in‐house, and demonstrate that while the raw CNTs are individualized and dispersed comparably within the polymer matrix, the electrical conductivity of the final nanocomposites differs significantly due to the intrinsic characteristics of the CNTs. Owing to their longer length after dispersion, the percolation threshold observed using MWCNTs from vertically‐aligned films is five times lower than the value for industrially‐produced MWCNT powders. Further, owing to the high structural quality of the CNTs from vertically‐aligned films, the resulting composite films exhibit electrical conductivity of 103 S m−1 at 2 wt% CNTs. On the contrary, composites made using the industrially‐produced CNTs exhibit conductivity of only tens of S m−1. To our knowledge, the measured electrical conductivity for CNT/PS composites using CNTs from vertically‐aligned films is by far the highest value yet reported for CNT/PS nanocomposites at this loading.
Extreme‐Performance Rubber Nanocomposites for Probing and Excavating Deep Oil Resources Using Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Endo Morinobu , Noguchi Toru , Ito Masaei , Takeuchi Kenji , Hayashi Takuya , Kim Yoong Ahm , Wanibuchi Takashi , Jinnai Hiroshi , Terrones Mauricio , Dresselhaus Mildred S.
Published: October 2008

The scarcity of oil resources is going to become one of the main factors threatening the stability of the global economy. To avoid an energy crisis in the future, it is essential to increase oil extraction in much deeper wells, experiencing higher temperatures and pressures. Exploring these deeper areas will demand novel and robust materials. Rubber sealants, or O‐rings, are especially key components in enabling the probing and production of oil in deeper wells, so that higher temperature and pressure reservoirs are reached. In this account, it is demonstrated that carbon nanotubes homogeneously and randomly dispersed in rubber matrices, are able to generate durable sealants that operate satisfactorily at extremely high temperatures and pressures (e.g., 260 °C and 239 MPa). The key issues in these novel composites are: i) the nanotube surface‐control and reactivity, ii) the used of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)‐embedded in fluorinated rubber, and iii) the formation of a cellulation structure. This rubber nanocomposite with a cellulation structure and having extreme performance leads to a balanced pressure resistance, sealing ability, thermal resistance, and durability, which can contribute to doubling the current average global oil recovery efficiency.
I'll Take Materials Science for $100
Authors: Flanagan David
Published: October 2008

What's the question? Join your host, the Editor‐in‐Chief, as he takes a brief look at what's in store for the upcoming Materials Research Society Fall Meeting, and how Advanced Functional Materials will continue to improve its service to authors and readers in 2009.
Proportionate mortality study of the united association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the plumbing and pipe fitting industry
Authors: Lehman Everett J. , Hein Misty J. , Estill Cheryl F.
Published: October 2008

Background

This study examined causes of deaths among unionized plumbers, pipefitters and allied trades.

Methods

Deaths of union members from the years 1971, 1979, 1987, and 1995 were selected as a representative sample from a computer file provided by the union. These years provided 15,411 deaths for proportionate mortality ratio (PMR) analysis.

Results

PMRs for lung cancer and asbestosis were significantly elevated compared to U.S. white males. PMRs for chronic disease of the endocardium and cardiomyopathy were also elevated. Elevations were not observed in other a priori causes: laryngeal cancer, lymphatic cancer, and neurological disorders. PMRs for transportation accidents for pipe/steam‐fitters were elevated in 1971 and 1979, but not in 1987 or 1995.

Conclusion

Despite the limitations of a PMR analysis, study results indicate mortality related to asbestos exposure is, and will continue to be, an area of concern for members of the union. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:950–963, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhalation incidents and respiratory health: results from the European Community respiratory health survey
Authors: Mirabelli Maria C. , Olivieri Mario , Kromhout Hans , Norbäck Dan , Radon Katja , Torén Kjell , van Sprundel Marc , Villani Simona , Zock Jan‐Paul
Published: October 2008

Background

Inhalation incidents are an important cause of acute respiratory symptoms, but little is known about how these incidents affect chronic respiratory health.

Methods

We assessed reported inhalation incidents among 3,763 European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) participants with and without cough, phlegm, asthma, wheezing or bronchial hyperresponsiveness. We then examined whether inhalation incidents during the 9‐year ECRHS follow‐up period were associated with a new onset of any of these respiratory outcomes among 2,809 participants who were free of all five outcomes at the time of the baseline ECRHS survey.

Results

Inhalation incidents were reported by 5% of participants, with higher percentages reported among individuals with asthma‐related outcomes at the time of the baseline survey. Among participants without symptoms at baseline, our analyses generated non‐statistically significant elevated estimates of the risk of cough, phlegm, asthma and wheezing and a non‐statistically significant inverse estimate of the risk of bronchial hyperresponsiveness among participants who reported an inhalation incident compared to those without such an event reported.

Discussion

Our findings provide limited evidence of an association between inhalation incidents and asthma‐related symptoms. These data could be affected by differences in the reporting of inhalation incidents according to symptom status at the time of the baseline survey; they should thus be interpreted with caution. Am. J. Ind. Med. 52:17–24, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Laterality in hand use across four tool‐use behaviors among the wild chimpanzees of Bossou, Guinea, West Africa
Authors: Humle Tatyana , Matsuzawa Tetsuro
Published: October 2008

Population‐level right handedness is a human universal, whose evolutionary origins are the source of considerable empirical and theoretical debate. Although our closest neighbor, the chimpanzee, shows some evidence for population‐level handedness in captivity, there is little evidence from the wild. Tool‐use measures of hand use in chimpanzees have yielded a great deal of variation in directionality and strength in hand preference, which still remains largely unexplored and unexplained. Data on five measures of hand use across four tool‐use skills—ant‐dipping, algae‐scooping, pestle‐pounding and nut‐cracking—among the wild chimpanzees of Bossou, Guinea, West Africa, are presented here. This study aims to explore age‐ and sex‐class effects, as well as the influence of task motor, cognitive and haptic demands, on the strength and directionality of hand preference within and across all five measures of hand use. Although there was no age‐ or sex‐class effect on the directionality of hand preference, immature ≤10 years old tended to be less lateralized than adults, especially adult females. Nut‐cracking, the most cognitively complex of the four behaviors and the only one requiring complementary coordination of both hands, yielded the greatest strength in hand use with all adults expressing exclusive use of one hand over the other, without overall significant directional preference. The least lateralized behavior was pestle‐pounding, which required bimanual coordination, but also imposed constraints owing to fatigue. It emerged that only the most hazardous tool use, i.e. ant‐dipping, and the sole haptic task, i.e. the extraction by hand of crushed oil‐palm heart, were laterally biased and both to the right. Shared motor or grip patterns in tool‐use skills failed to reveal any specialization in hand use at the individual level. Finally, Bossou chimpanzees demonstrated a tendency for a population‐level right‐hand use. Am. J. Primatol. 71:40–48, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sex differences in the social behavior of wild spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi yucatanensis)
Authors: Slater Kathy Y. , Schaffner Colleen M. , Aureli Filippo
Published: October 2008

Competition for resources and the need for cooperation are reported to affect patterns of social interactions and thus the quality of social relationships in primates. Relationships may be described as high quality when both individuals behave in a way that benefits their partner. We investigated the distribution of a wide range of social behaviors across sex partner combinations of adult spider monkeys with specific reference to contested resources. Data were collected from two communities of wild spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi yucatanensis) in the Otoch Ma'ax Yetel Kooh reserve in Yucatan, Mexico. Affiliative behavior was exchanged most frequently between males, and as male–male aggression was rare, male–male social relationships were characterized as high quality. Female–female social relationships were best described as low quality as females showed no preference to be in proximity with other females and female–female affiliative behavior was rare. Relationships between the sexes generally were characterized by high rates of female‐directed male aggression, although additional investigation into the effects of kinship and female reproductive state on male–female relationships is required before further conclusions can be drawn. Dyadic and coalitionary female–female aggression was significantly higher than expected in a feeding context, confirming that female spider monkeys primarily compete for access to food. Male–male aggression did not increase significantly when in the presence of females, but males embraced at higher rates when in mixed‐sex subgroups. As embraces serve to reduce the likelihood of aggression during tense situations, high rates of male–male embraces in mixed‐sex subgroups may mitigate male conflicts over access to females. Am. J. Primatol. 71:21–29, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diet of spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) in Mesoamerica: current knowledge and future directions
Authors: González‐Zamora Arturo , Arroyo‐Rodríguez Víctor , Chaves Óscar M. , Sánchez‐López Sonia , Stoner Kathryn E. , Riba‐Hernández Pablo
Published: October 2008

Here we review all published articles and book chapters, as well as unpublished theses and data ofAteles geoffroyidiet to (1) summarize the literature; (2) synthesize general feeding patterns; (3) document plant taxonomic similarity in diet across study sites; and (4) suggest directions for future research and conservation priorities. We found 22 samples from five countries: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Panama. Tropical wet forest is the most studied habitat (N=13 samples), followed by tropical dry forest (6) and tropical moist forest (3). Most samples have been carried out in large protected forests. In spite of showing an overall high dietetic diversity (364 species, 76 families),A. geoffroyiconcentrated the majority of feeding time on a few species in the families Moraceae and Fabaceae. At all study sites fruits were the most common food item in the diet followed by leaves. Furthermore, a greater variety of food items and less fruit were consumed in forest fragments. These findings suggest that fruit shortage in fragments results in primates using foods of presumably lower energetic content such as leaves. Similarity in diet was higher among groups geographically closer to each other than among distant groups, showing that the floristic and phenological characteristics of the forest can influence diet composition. We conclude that several years of data are required to fully describe the dietary list ofA. geoffroyiat any one site, as studies of the same group over different years shared as little as 56% of species. As most populations ofA. geoffroyilive in highly fragmented landscapes, it is crucial to carry out studies in these areas to evaluate (1) changes in diet and activity patterns that may negatively affect survival; and (2) habitat attributes that may favor their persistence in altered landscapes. Am. J. Primatol. 71:8–20, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Separation technologies for the recovery and dehydration of alcohols from fermentation broths
Authors: Vane Leland M.
Published: October 2008

Multi‐column distillation followed by molecular sieve adsorption is currently the standard method for producing fuel‐grade ethanol from dilute fermentation broths in modern corn‐to‐ethanol facilities. As the liquid biofuels industry transitions to lignocellulosic feedstocks, expands the end‐product portfolio to include other alcohols, and encounters more dilute alcohol concentrations, alternative separation technologies which are more energy efficient than the conventional approach will be in demand. In this review, alcohol recovery technology options and alcohol dehydration technology options for the production of ethanol and 1‐butanol are reviewed and compared, with an emphasis on the energy footprint of each approach. Select hybrid technologies are also described. Published in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
A cannabinoid analogue of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol disrupts neural development in chick
Authors: Psychoyos Delphine , Hungund Basalingappa , Cooper Thomas , Finnell Richard H.
Published: October 2008

Marijuana is the most commonly abused illicit drug by pregnant women. Its major psychoactive constituent, Δ9‐THC (Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol), crosses the placenta and accumulates in the fœtus, potentially harming its development. In humans, marijuana use in early pregnancy is associated with miscarriage, a fetal alcohol‐like syndrome, as well as learning disabilities, memory impairment, and ADHD in the offspring. Classical studies in the 1970 s have reached disparate conclusions as to the teratogenic effects of cannabinoids in animal models. Further, there is very little known about the immediate effects of Δ9‐THC on early embryogenesis. We have used the chick embryo as a model in order to characterize the effects of a water‐soluble Δ9‐THC analogue, O‐2545, on early development. Embryos were exposed to the drug (0.035 to 0.35 mg/ml) at gastrulation and assessed for morphological defects at stages equivalent to 9–14 somites. We report that O‐2545 impairs the formation of brain, heart, somite, and spinal cord primordia. Shorter incubation times following exposure to the drug show that O‐2545 interferes with the initial steps of head process and neural plate formation. Our results indicate that the administration of the cannabinoid O‐2545 during early embryogenesis results in embryotoxic effects and serves to illuminate the risks of marijuana exposure during the second week of pregnancy, a time point at which most women are unaware of their pregnancies.Birth Defects Res (Part B)83:477–488, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simultaneous synthesis of 2‐phenylethanol and L‐homophenylalanine using aromatic transaminase with yeast Ehrlich pathway
Authors: Hwang Joon‐Young , Park Jihyang , Seo Joo‐Hyun , Cha Minho , Cho Byung‐Kwan , Kim Juhan , Kim Byung‐Gee
Published: October 2008

2‐Phenylethanol is a widely used aroma compound with rose‐like fragrance and L‐homophenylalanine is a building block of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. 2‐phenylethanol and L‐homophenylalanine were synthesized simultaneously with high yield from 2‐oxo‐4‐phenylbutyric acid and L‐phenylalanine, respectively. A recombinant Escherichia coli harboring a coupled reaction pathway comprising of aromatic transaminase, phenylpyruvate decarboxylase, carbonyl reductase, and glucose dehydrogenase (GDH) was constructed. In the coupled reaction pathway, the transaminase reaction was coupled with the Ehrlich pathway of yeast; (1) a phenylpyruvate decarboxylase (YDR380W) as the enzyme to generate the substrate for the carbonyl reductase from phenylpyruvate (i.e., byproduct of the transaminase reaction) and to shift the reaction equilibrium of the transaminase reaction, and (2) a carbonyl reductase (YGL157W) to produce the 2‐phenylethanol. Selecting the right carbonyl reductase showing the highest activity on phenylacetaldehyde with narrow substrate specificity was the key to success of the constructing the coupling reaction. In addition, NADPH regeneration was achieved by incorporating the GDH from Bacillus subtilis in the coupled reaction pathway. Based on 40 mM of L‐phenylalanine used, about 96% final product conversion yield of 2‐phenylethanol was achieved using the recombinant E. coli. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 1323–1329. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment strategy after non-curative endoscopic resection of early gastric cancer
Authors: Oda I , Gotoda T , Sasako M , Sano T , Katai H , Fukagawa T , Shimoda T , Emura F , Saito D
Published: October 2008

Background

Endoscopic resection (ER) is indicated for patients with early gastric cancer who have a negligible risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM). Histological examination of the resected specimen may indicate a possible risk of LNM or a positive resection margin. These patients are considered to have undergone non-curative ER. The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate treatment strategy for such patients.

Methods

A total of 298 patients who had non-curative ER were classified into those with a positive lateral margin only (group 1; 72 patients) and those with a possible risk of LNM (group 2; 226 patients).

Results

Surgery was performed within 6 months of non-curative ER in 19 patients in group 1 and 144 in group 2. In group 1, nine patients were found to have local residual tumours, all limited to the mucosal layer without LNM. In Group 2, 13 patients had residual disease, including four local tumours without LNM, two local tumours with LNM and seven cases of LNM alone. The rate of LNM after surgery was 6·3 per cent in group 2.

Conclusion

Surgery remains the standard treatment after non-curative ER in patients with a possible risk of LNM.
Ten-year clinical outcome of a prospective randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic Nissen versus anterior 180° partial fundoplication
Authors: Cai W , Watson D I , Lally C J , Devitt P G , Game P A , Jamieson G G
Published: October 2008

Background

A randomized trial of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication and anterior 180° partial fundoplication was undertaken to determine whether the anterior procedure might reduce the incidence of dysphagia and other adverse outcomes following surgery for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. This study evaluated clinical outcomes after 10 years.

Methods

Some 107 patients were randomized to undergo laparoscopic Nissen or anterior 180° partial fundoplication. Ten-year data were not available for 18 patients. Information was obtained from 89 patients (48 Nissen, 41 anterior fundoplication) using a standard clinical questionnaire that focused on symptoms of reflux, potential postoperative side-effects and overall satisfaction with the outcome of surgery.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to reflux symptoms, dysphagia, abdominal bloating, ability to belch and overall satisfaction. Between 5 and 10 years after surgery, revisional surgery was required for reflux in two patients after anterior fundoplication. Two patients had revision after Nissen fundoplication, for reflux and recurrent hiatus hernia.

Conclusion

Both laparoscopic anterior 180° partial and Nissen fundoplication are safe, effective and durable at 10 years' follow-up. Most patients are satisfied with the clinical outcome.
Delaying surgery after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer may reduce postoperative morbidity without compromising prognosis
Authors: Kerr S F , Norton S , Glynne-Jones R
Published: October 2008

Background

This retrospective study investigated whether the interval between neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and surgery for rectal cancer influences postoperative morbidity or prognosis.

Methods

Data from 189 patients receiving neoadjuvant 5-fluorouracil-based chemoradiotherapy were examined. Associations between interval length and clinicopathological characteristics were analysed.

Results

The median interval was 73 (range 6–215) days. Operations performed were abdominoperineal resection (60·3 per cent), anterior resection (37·6 per cent) and Hartmann's procedure (2·1 per cent). Forty-six patients (24·3 per cent) received postoperative chemotherapy. Interval was not significantly associated with pathological tumour (P = 0·648) or node (P = 0·964) category after chemoradiotherapy, or pathological complete response (P = 0·499). Logistic regression showed that shorter intervals (by 1 week) independently predicted anastomotic leakage (odds ratio (OR) 0·97 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·94 to 1·00)) and perineal wound complications (OR 0·97 (0·95 to 0·99)). Interval was not related to local recurrence (hazard ratio (HR) 1·01 (95 per cent c.i. 1·00 to 1·02)), metastasis (HR 1·00 (0·99 to 1·01)) or death (HR 1·00 (0·99 to 1·01)). Only circumferential resection margin and nodal involvement were independent predictors of survival.

Conclusion

Delaying surgery beyond 8 weeks after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy may reduce postoperative morbidity, without compromising prognosis.