bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescent Occupational Fatalities in North Carolina (1990–2008): An Investigation of Child Labor and OSHA Violations and Enforcement
Authors: Rauscher Kimberly , Runyan Carol
Published: March 2013

This study investigated adolescent worker fatalities involving violations of the child labor laws and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, as well as the enforcement activity involved in each case. Medical examiner records were used to identify work-related deaths among adolescents ages 11–17 between 1990 and 2008 and child labor violations. Investigations from state and federal Departments of Labor (DOL) were used to determine inspection activity, identify OSHA violations, and confirm child labor violations. Fifty-two percent of cases involved one or more child labor violations. Nine cases were investigated by either the U.S. or North Carolina DOL; among them, four had child labor violations. Eleven cases were investigated by the North Carolina DOL and all involved OSHA violations. Significant child labor and OSHA violations exist in adolescent worker fatalities in North Carolina, and gaps exist in enforcement at both the federal and state level, signaling needed improvements in the protection of adolescent workers.
Managing Asbestos in Italy: Twenty Years after the Ban
Authors: Silvestri Stefano
Published: March 2013

Establishing an asbestos ban is not sufficient to achieve effective primary prevention. Twenty years after the Italian asbestos ban, the residual presence of asbestos-containing materials, estimated to be 80 percent of the quantity existing in 1992, may still be the cause of negative effects to the health of workers and the general population. The so called “asbestos way-out” at this rate of cleaning up, roughly 1 percent per year, is too slow, and new policy to re-discuss the entire process is needed. Encouragement of the owners with tax relief when the substitution of the asbestos roofs is performed with photovoltaic panels, as well as reducing the cost of removal planning local landfills may be the keys to accelerate the cleanup process.
Posthuman Humanities
Authors: Braidotti Rosi
Published: March 2013

This article compares notes on different and new concepts of ‘the Human’, developed both within disciplinary and interdisciplinary academic scientific research and in broader social practices. The main focus is on the shifting relationship between the ‘two cultures' of the humanities and science in the light of contemporary developments, such as the sophisticated forms of interdisciplinary research that have emerged in the fields of biotechnologies, neural sciences, environmental and climate change research and Information and Communication technologies. These rapid changes affect the very definitions of the human and of human evolution. The question is how and to what extent they have an impact on both the practice of the humanities and on their self-representation. Is humanism challenged or strengthened by these developments? To what extent is anthropocentrism called to task by what is becoming known as posthuman theory?
Creating an Educational Testing Profession in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, 1910–1960
Authors: Ydesen Christian , Ludvigsen Kari , Lundahl Christian
Published: March 2013

In Sweden, Norway and Denmark national testing communities advocating the introduction and expanded use of standardised educational tests in the national educational systems emerged around World War I. Using international research and cross-border networking activities, these coteries were able to gain power and thus establish and promote a new profession, the educational psychologist, along with instituting practices of alleged scientific tests in the following decades.
Historical Change in the Production and Legitimisation of Education Statistics in Switzerland
Authors: Ruoss Thomas
Published: March 2013

Internationalisation as a factor in the impetus for and establishment of education statistics is analysed, taking the example of Switzerland in a long-term perspective. The case of Switzerland shows that historically, international comparisons depended on the nationalisation of statistics' responsibility. This nationalisation of education statistics' authority was itself closely connected with the demand for the domestic availability of statistics from the sub-central regions. This demand was in turn coupled with the structural challenges in the education system caused by its expansion and the heterogeneous degrees of institutionalisation of education statistics.
Type 2 Diabetes and Risk of Rupture of Saccular Intracranial Aneurysm in Eastern Finland
Authors: Lindgren Antti E. , Kurki Mitja I. , Riihinen Annamaija , Koivisto Timo , Ronkainen Antti , Rinne Jaakko , Hernesniemi Juha , Eriksson Johan G. , Jääskeläinen Juha E. , von und zu Fraunberg Mikael
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes is a risk factor for other forms of stroke, but its association with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from ruptured saccular intracranial aneurysm (sIA) has remained unclear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Kuopio Intracranial Aneurysm Database (www.uef.fi/ns) includes all ruptured and unruptured sIA cases from a defined catchment population in eastern Finland since 1980. We compared the age-adjusted incidences of type 2 diabetes in 1,058 ruptured and 484 unruptured sIA patients during 1994–2008, using the national registry of prescribed medicine purchases.

RESULTS

Of the 1,058 ruptured sIA patients, 43% were males and 57% females, with a median age at rupture of 51 and 56 years, respectively. From 1994 to 2008 or until death, 9% had been prescribed antidiabetes medication (ADM) with a median starting age of 58 years for males and 66 years for females. Of the 484 unruptured sIA patients, 44% were males and 56% females, with a median age at the diagnosis of 53 and 55 years, respectively, and 9% had used ADM, with a median starting age of 61 years for males and 66 years for females. The incidence of type 2 diabetes was highest in the age-group 60–70 years, with no significant differences between the ruptured and unruptured sIA patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that type 2 diabetes does not increase the risk of rupture of sIA, which is by far the most frequent cause of nontraumatic SAH.
Efficacy and Safety of Lixisenatide Once-Daily Morning or Evening Injections in Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Metformin (GetGoal-M)
Authors: Ahrén Bo , Leguizamo Dimas Aniceto , Miossec Patrick , Saubadu Stéphane , Aronson Ronnie
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE

To examine the efficacy and safety of lixisenatide (20 μg once daily, administered before the morning or evening meal) as add-on therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes insufficiently controlled with metformin alone.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 680 patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes (HbA1c 7–10% [53−86 mmol/mol]). Patients were randomized to lixisenatide morning (n = 255), lixisenatide evening (n = 255), placebo morning (n = 85), or placebo evening (n = 85) injections.

RESULTS

Lixisenatide morning injection significantly reduced mean HbA1c versus combined placebo (mean change −0.9% [9.8 mmol/mol] vs. −0.4% [4.4 mmol/mol]; least squares [LS] mean difference vs. placebo −0.5% [5.5 mmol/mol], P < 0.0001). HbA1c was significantly reduced by lixisenatide evening injection (mean change –0.8% [8.7 mmol/mol] vs. –0.4% [4.4 mmol/mol]; LS mean difference –0.4% [4.4 mmol/mol], P < 0.0001). Lixisenatide morning injection significantly reduced 2-h postprandial glucose versus morning placebo (mean change −5.9 vs. −1.4 mmol/L; LS mean difference −4.5 mmol/L, P < 0.0001). LS mean difference in fasting plasma glucose was significant in both morning (–0.9 mmol/L, P < 0.0001) and evening (–0.6 mmol/L, P = 0.0046) groups versus placebo. Mean body weight decreased to a similar extent in all groups. Rates of adverse events were 69.4% in both lixisenatide groups and 60.0% in the placebo group. Rates for nausea and vomiting were 22.7 and 9.4% for lixisenatide morning and 21.2 and 13.3% for lixisenatide evening versus 7.6 and 2.9% for placebo, respectively. Symptomatic hypoglycemia occurred in 6, 13, and 1 patient for lixisenatide morning, evening, and placebo, respectively, with no severe episodes.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on metformin, lixisenatide 20 μg once daily administered in the morning or evening significantly improved glycemic control, with a pronounced postprandial effect, and was well tolerated.
Effects of a Single Bout of Interval Hypoxia on Cardiorespiratory Control and Blood Glucose in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Duennwald Tobias , Gatterer Hannes , Groop Per-Henrik , Burtscher Martin , Bernardi Luciano
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE

Hypoxia may cause functional autonomic imbalance in diabetes. Intermittent hypoxia (IH), a technique improving the adaptation to hypoxia, might improve cardiorespiratory reflexes and, ultimately, blood glucose concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes. We tested whether a single bout of IH could initiate a long-lasting response potentially leading to better adaptation to hypoxia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 14 patients with type 2 diabetes without autonomic complications, we measured blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, chemoreflex (hypoxic and hypercapnic ventilatory responses, ventilatory recruitment threshold), and baroreflex sensitivity before, immediately after, and 3 and 6 h after a 1-h single bout of IH (6-min breathing of 13% oxygen mixture 5 times each separated by 6-min recovery). The measurements were repeated on a placebo day (at least 1 week apart, in random sequence) when subjects were only breathing room air (single-blind protocol).

RESULTS

IH significantly increased hypercapnic ventilatory responses and reduced ventilatory recruitment threshold, and increased oxygen saturation and blood pressures, whereas increases in heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity were not significant. Blood glucose significantly decreased after IH. No such changes were observed during the placebo day, except an increase in oxygen saturation. Some of the effects lasted 3 h after IH, and some even persisted until 6 h after IH.

CONCLUSIONS

A single bout of IH induced an initial adaptation to hypoxia, with improvement in cardiorespiratory reflexes and reduction in blood glucose. Patients with type 2 diabetes could potentially benefit from the application of a full (>2 weeks) IH intervention.
Psychometric Properties, Norms, and Factor Structure of the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey–Revised in a Large Sample of Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Wisting Line , Frøisland Dag Helge , Skrivarhaug Torild , Dahl-Jørgensen Knut , Rø Øyvind
Published: March 2013

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey–Revised (DEPS-R) in a large sample of young patients with type 1 diabetes, to establish norms, and to validate it against the Eating Attitudes Test–12 (EAT-12).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 770 children and adolescents aged 11–19 years with type 1 diabetes completed the DEPS-R and the EAT-12. In addition, age- and sex-standardized BMI and HbA1c data were obtained from the Norwegian Childhood Diabetes Registry. In addition to tests of validity, principal axis factoring was conducted to investigate the factor structure of the 16-item DEPS-R.

RESULTS

The DEPS-R demonstrated satisfactory Cronbach α (0.89) and was significantly correlated with the EAT-12 (0.65; P < 0.01), indicating convergent validity. The mean (SD) DEPS-R scores were 11.0 (10.7) for the total sample and 7.7 (7.4) and 14.2 (2.4) for males and females, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study replicates and extends previous research demonstrating the psychometric properties of the abbreviated 16-item DEPS-R. Findings support the utility of this important screening tool to identify disturbed eating in young patients with type 1 diabetes.
Cardiopulmonary fitness test among Nepalese students
Authors: Hada S , Amatya S , Gautam K
Published: March 2013

Background and Objectives: Maximum Oxygen uptake (VO2 max) is a good predictor of cardiopulmonary and muscle fitness. Maximum oxygen uptake is defined as the highest rate at which oxygen can be taken up and utilize by body during severe exercise. The present study aims to find out the level of VO2 max using Mc Ardle equation and to compare obtained values from Chatterjee’s equation in Nepalese population. Methodology: Maximum oxygen uptake was determined by using the Queen’s college step-stool of 16.25 inches and popular Mc Ardle equation. Stepping was done for a total duration of 3 minutes at the rate of 24 cycles per minute for males and 22 cycles per minute for females. After completion of the exercise, subjects remained standing while the carotid pulse rate was taken as heart rate. Maximum oxygen uptake was calculated using obtained heart rate. Results: Queen’s college step test (QCT) was used as a submaximal exercise and the estimated VO2 max in boys and girls was 48.8± 7.3 ml/kg/min and 37.4± 2.7 ml/kg/min respectively with Mc Ardle equation and the value was higher when compared with Chatterjee’s equations. The value of VO2 max was observed and found to be less in smokers and sedentary individuals. Conclusion: As the values of VO2 max obtained from different equations are different, this research strongly argues the need of developing a prediction equation specifically for the Nepalese population.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v1i1.7879 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2013) Vol. 1 (1):3-8
Magnesium induced vascular relaxation and role of Calcium-dependent K+ Channels
Authors: Upadhyay-Dhungel K , Kim CJ , Dhungel A
Published: March 2013

Background and objectives: Magnesium is established as a neuro-protective agent and now also known as a vasodilator. It has been known for treating vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, its action mechanism in cerebral vascular relaxation is not clear. Potassium channels play a pivotal role in the relaxation of smooth muscle cells. To investigate their role in magnesium-induced relaxation of basilar smooth muscle cells, we examined the effect of magnesium on potassium channels using the patch clamp technique on cells from rabbit basilar artery. Material and Methods: Fresh smooth muscle cells were isolated from the basilar artery by enzyme treatment. Whole cell current recording was done using patch-clamp technique. Appropriate bath solution was used to have potassium current. The effect of Magnesium was observed and to identify the potassium (K+) channel involved in the magnesium-induced currents, different potassium channel blockers were used. Results: Magnesium increased the step pulse-induced outward K+ currents by more than fortyfive percent over control level (p<0.01). The outward K+ current was decreased significantly by application of tetraethylammonium, a non-specific K+ channel blocker, and by iberiotoxin, a largeconductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channel blocker, but was not inhibited by glibenclamide an ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel blocker. Magnesium failed to increase the outward K+ currents in the presence of IBX. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that calcium dependent pottassium (BKCa) channels has role in magnesium induced vascular relaxation in rabbit basilar smooth muscle cells and needs to be worked out for human. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v1i1.7880 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2013) Vol. 1 (1):9-13
Alpha and Beta amylase activity of Fagopyrum esculentum (Buckwheat): A Medicinal Plant
Authors: Prakash S , Deshwal S
Published: March 2013

Background and Objectives: Fagopyrum esculentum, common buckwheat popularly known as mithe fapar is one of the staple food crops of the mountain region. Traditionally, it is used to treat constipation and bowel upsets. It is also used by diabetic in different parts of Nepal and India. Due to its high nutritive and medicinal value, medical scientist and researchers are interested in developing this as pharmaceutical plant. In this regard department of biochemistry, College of Applied Education and Health Sciences, C.C.S. University, Meerut, India is working to analyse the biochemical composition and benefits of this plant. So, as a part of a multidimensional project of analyzing various components and their impact on health and diseases, here we are reporting the amylase activity during germination of seed in Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) plant. Methodology: Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) seeds were taken and germinated in dark at room temperature from 0 hours to 192 hours. Biochemical analysis for total amylase, alpha and beta amylase activities was measured by the standard method designed by Bernfeld (1955). Results: The seeds of buckwheat showed high level of amylolytic activity during different stages of germination. At 0 hours, negligible amylase activity was found. The first amylase activity was found at 24 hours and increases up to 96 hours. After 96 hours the total amylase activity starts decreasing and becomes almost negligible at 192 hours. Alpha and Beta –Amylase activity is reported separately. Conclusion: The amylases from the buckwheat showed different level of enzymatic activity during seed germination. Alpha amylase contributed a larger account to total amylase activity. The activity starts increasing and becomes maximum at 96 hours and starts decreasing and becomes lowest at 192 hours suggesting that alpha amylase plays a important role in starch metabolism in developing as well as geminating seeds which can be used for the drug discovery and treatment of several diseases like diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, constipation, bowel upsets, obesity and others. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v1i1.7887 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2013) Vol. 1 (1):53-58
Immunophenotypic study of acute leukemia by flow cytometry at BPKMCH.
Authors: Shrestha S , Shrestha J , Pun CB , Pathak T , Bastola S , Bhatta R
Published: March 2013

Background: Immunophenotyping of acute leukemia is one of the most important clinical applications of fl ow cytometry. The aim of this study was to determine the immunophenotyping profi le of acute leukemia, by means of a fl ow cytometric method, using monoclonal antibodies all marked with a fl uorochrome, in four colour systems to assess their distribution according to type of leukemia (lymphoid B or T / myeloid). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively collected data of immunophenotyping from 52 acute leukemia patients at the department of pathology in B.P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital from January 2010 to December 2011. Diagnosis was based on peripheral blood and bone marrow examination for morphology, cytochemistry and immunophenotypic studies. Results: Out of total 52 cases of acute leukemia diagnosed by fl ow cytometry over a two year period, there were 31 cases (59.6 %) of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, 20 cases (38.4 %) of acute myelogenous leukemia and one case (1.9 %) of bi-phenotypic acute leukemia. Leukemia was diagnosed among adults in 44.2 % whereas among children with age less than or equal to 15 years in 55.7 %. Thirty eight (73%) were male and 14 (27 %) were female with a male: female ratio of 2.7:1. For acute myelogenous leukemia, it was found that M0 (5.0 %), M1 (20%), M2 (60%), M3 (15%), M4 (5.0 %) were detected. CD13 and CD33 were the most useful markers in the diagnosis of acute myelogenous leukemia. The most common subtype was AML-M2. Of the 31 cases with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, 20 cases (64.5 %) were identifi ed as B-ALL and 11 cases (35.5%) as T-ALL. Aside from cytoplasmic CD3 (cCD3) and CD7 were the most sensitive antigens present in all cases of T-ALL. All cases of B-ALL showed expression of pan B-cell markers CD19 and CD22, but 15 (75 %) of 20 cases expressed CD10. Conclusion: Flow cytometric immunophenotyping was found to be especially useful in the correct identifi cation and diagnosis of acute myeloid or lymphoblastic leukemia and its subtypes. In combination with French-American-British (FAB) morphology and immunophenotyping, we were able to diagnose and classify all patients with acute leukemia in this study. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 345-350 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7856
Spectrum of histopathological lesions in the fallopian tubes
Authors: Gon S , Basu A , Majumdar B , Das TK , Sengupta M , Ghosh D
Published: March 2013

Background: Fallopian tubes are common surgical specimen in the pathology laboratory; still there is a lack of data to describe the frequency of various histological fi ndings. The aim and objectives of this study was to describe the various histopathological fi ndings of fallopian tubes. Materials and Methods: Two thousand fi ve hundred and seventy fi ve cases where fallopian tubes were removed either separately or along with other female genital tract organs were studied retrospectively and their histopathological fi ndings documented. Results: Ectopic pregnancy comprised maximum number of cases closely followed by salpingitis. Primary neoplastic lesions were rare as compared to secondary malignancies. Serial sections of fallopian tube and sections from representative areas are essential for a pathologist so that the diagnosis of these pathological entities is not missed. Conclusion: Though the fallopian tubes remain unremarkable in majority of the surgical pathological specimens, it must be subjected for histopathological examination to demonstrate the pathological lesions. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 356-360 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7858
Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions of thyroid lesions on fi ne needle aspiration smears
Authors: Chalise S , Thapa S , Sayami G , Shrestha A
Published: March 2013

Background: Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region is higher in malignant nuclei as compared to reactive and benign nuclei. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the role of Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region and its extent in differentiating benign and malignant lesions, particularly with respect to follicular neoplasms of the thyroid. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, cross sectional study which included 110 patients presenting with thyroid swelling. The fi ne needle aspiration smears were studied by conventional methods and silver staining for Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region. In 50 cases, diagnosis was confi rmed by histopathology. The Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region count was done and the mean Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region count per nucleus was calculated along with pattern of distribution. Results: Mean Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region count was higher in neoplastic as compared to non-neoplastic and infl ammatory lesions. Papillary carcinoma had the highest mean Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region count (5.40 ± 0.86) and the lowest count was seen in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (2.10 ± 0.36). Higher mean Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region count was recorded in follicular carcinoma (4.84 ± 1.42) as compared to follicular adenoma (3.5 ± 0.27) which was found to be statistically signifi cant (P<0.05). Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region dots were arranged in clusters in colloid goiter whereas scattered discrete black dots were seen in neoplastic lesions. Conclusion: Argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region study of thyroid can be used as an additional diagnostic adjunct with cytomorphological features to differentiate benign and malignant follicular neoplasms. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 361-366 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7859
Evaluation of adenosine deaminase activity for diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion
Authors: Bhoumik SK , Rahman MM , Ibrahim M , Hiron MM , Ahamad M
Published: March 2013

Background: Tuberculosis is a leading cause of worldwide preventable morbidity and mortality from an infectious agent. A defi nite diagnosis of tubercular pleural effusion can be diffi cult to make because of low sensitivity and/or specifi city of noninvasive traditional diagnostic tools. This study is done to fi nd out a sensitive and specifi c marker for early diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion. Materials and Methods: One hundred and three pleural effusion cases were enrolled in the study, out of which 62 were tuberculous pleural effusion cases and 49 were non-tuberculous cases. Results: Considering 40 U/L as a cut off value for Adenosine deaminase assay level, the test result was positive in 58 out of 62 patients of tuberculosis indicating sensitivity of the test as 94%; however, among 41 non-tuberculous patients, 5 presented ADA activity level more than 40U/L, which lowers the specifi city of the test to 88%. ADA levels were signifi cantly higher in tuberculous than in non tuberculous cases (P value <0.001). Conclusion: It may be concluded that ADA levels are signifi cantly high in patients with tuberculous pleural effusion compared to that in non tuberculous group. Sensitivity (94%) and specifi city (88%) of the test in tuberculous pleural effusions are very high, when cut off value set at 40U/L. The result indicated that the analysis of ADA levels in pleural effusion constitute a very useful marker for the diagnosis of TPE which, in addition, can be made quickly in a non- invasive way. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 367-373 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7860
Tissue eosinophilia: a morphological marker for assessing stromal invasion in squamous neoplasms of the larynx
Authors: Bhatta RR , Adhikari RC , Sayami G
Published: March 2013

Background: The assessment of tumour invasion in squamous neoplasms of the larynx poses a diagnostic challenge, especially in small biopsies that are frequently sectioned tangentially. Eosinophilic infi ltration is thought to be an adjunctive criterion in determining tumour invasion. We investigated whether thresholds of eosinophilic infi ltration in laryngeal squamous neoplasms would aid in determining the presence of invasion. Materials and Methods: Fifty cases of invasive squamous carcinoma, preinvasive squamous neoplasms and benign squamous neoplasms were evaluated. The number of eosinophils per high power field and per 10 high power fields in the stroma adjacent to the neoplastic epithelium were counted and tabulated. For statistical purposes, the elevated eosinophils were defi ned and categorized as: focally and moderately elevated (5-9/HPF), focally and markedly elevated (>10/HPF), diffusely and moderately elevated (5- 19/10HPF), and diffusely and markedly increased (>20/10/HPF). Results: Eosinophil counts were elevated focally and/or diffusely more frequently in invasive squamous carcinoma than in noninvasive tumours. The increased eosinophil counts, specifically >10/HPF and >20/10HPF, were statistically significantly associated with stromal invasion. Greater than 10/HPF and >20/10HPF had sensitivity, specifi city and positive predictive values of 23%,100%, 100% and 11%,100% and 100% respectively. Cytology was able to diagnose 33 out of 36 malignant cases. Of 17 cases which were diagnosed as benign on cytology, 3 cases turned out to be malignant on biopsy. The sensitivity and specifi city of touch smear cytology are 91.6% and 100% respectively. Conclusion: The elevated eosinophil count in squamous neoplasms of larynx is a morphologic feature associated with presence of tumour invasion. When the number of infiltrating eosinophils exceeds 10/ HPF and or >20/10HPF in a laryngeal biopsy with squamous neoplasm, it represents an indicator for the possibility of tumour invasion. Similarly, the presence of eosinophils meeting these thresholds in an excisional specimen should prompt a thorough evaluation for invasiveness, when evidence of invasion is absent or is suspected by conventional criteria in the initial sections. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 374-378 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7861
Micronuclei and sialic acid as markers of genotoxic damage in tobacco-related oral lesions
Authors: Dahal S , Bozaz K , Srikant N , Reshma K , Agrawal N
Published: March 2013

Background: Carcinogens and co-carcinogens act in an additive, synergistic and antagonistic manner. Tobacco is the most common carcinogen related to oral cancer. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of tobacco on the oral epithelium by evaluating genotoxic damage to cells as quantitated by micronuclei and also the alterations to the cell membrane were correlated by the measurement of free sialic acid and protein-bound sialic acid in saliva and in serum. Materials and Methods: Blood samples collected from 15 untreated oral squamous cell carcinoma patients, 15 patients with oral precancerous conditions, 15 tobacco chewers without clinically evident lesion and 15 non-tobacco chewers. Serum and salivary sialic acid levels both in free and bound form were measured spectrophotometrically. Smear was taken from the same patient from the suspicious site and assessment of micronuclei was done by acridine orange method. Results: Serum free sialic acid and micronuclei assessment showed greater level of signifi cance (P=?0.05) between all other groups. This implies it’s potential use as an indicator of oral cancer. Predictability of occurrence of oral Cancer = 0.561+ 0.005× serum protein-bound sialic acid+ 0.244 serum free sialic acid + 0.71 M, where M=mean of micronuclei in 500 exfoliated oral cells. Predictability of occurrence of oral Premalignancy = 0.13+ 0.909× serum free sialic acid+ 0.045 M, where M=mean of micronuclei in 500 exfoliated oral cells. Conclusion: Micronuclei, serum and salivary sialic acid levels may be a good marker for prediction of premalignancy and oral squamous cell carcinoma transformation. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 379-385 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7862
Incidence, trends and histopathological pattern of cervical malignancies at BP Koirala Memorial cancer hospital, Nepal.
Authors: Pathak TB , Pun CB , Shrestha S , Bastola S , Bhatta R
Published: March 2013

Background: Cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignant tumors worldwide and the leading cause of death from genital malignancies in women. We evaluate the trends and patterns of cervical malignancies in our institution. Materials and Methods: All the tissue slides of cervical malignancies at the department of pathology at BP Koirala Memorial cancer hospital over a period of 3 years (2009-2011) were retrieved and evaluated. Clinical data were obtained from the medical records. Results: A total of 1955 cases were registered as gynecological malignancies, out of which cervical malignancy constitutes 1341 (68%) cases followed by ovarian malignancies 425 (22%) cases. Only 874 cases were included in this study due to inadequate data retrieval. The age range for cervical cancer was 24 to 92 years with a mean age of 42.5 years. Squamous cell carcinoma (92.56%) was the most common histological type of cervical cancer, followed by adenocarcinoma (4.1%). Conclusion: This study has shown a high incidence of carcinoma of cervix at BP Koirala memorial cancer Hospital. Routine cytological screening of the population for cervical cancers is highly necessary as early detection of premalignant lesions. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 386-389 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7863
Analysis of prostate needle biopsy in patients visiting B & B hospital: a three year retrospective study
Authors: Baidya R , Sigdel B , Shrestha S , Baidya NL
Published: March 2013

Background: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. Prostate specifi c antigen is a key tumor marker to screen for prostate cancer. However, controversy exits regarding the impact of prostate cancer screening. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study carried out in the Department of Histopathology of B and B Hospital during a period of 2 years from 01-05-2064 to 01-05-2066. The study included 26 cases of prostate needle biopsy specimens. Results: The more common age group (43.9%) was 70-79 years followed by the age group above 80 years old (7.5%). The most common benign lesion observed was benign prostatic hyperplasia (5 out of 11, 45.45%), followed by benign prostatic hyperplasia with chronic prostatitis (3 out of 11, 27.27%). The most common malignant types of lesion encountered was prostatic adenocarcinoma with an incidence of 84.62% (11 out of 13 cases), following nodular hyperplasia of prostate with low grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasm 15.38% (2 out of 13 cases). Among the benign and the malignant cases serum PSA ranged from 0 - ?10.1 ng/ml. Conclusion: Serum PSA value has signifi cant role in the diagnosis of malignant prostatic lesions. However, Histological diagnosis still remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of prostatic cancer. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 394-396 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7865
Incidence of gastric cancer, its subtypes, and correlation with Helicobacter Pylori
Authors: KC Shiva Raj , Amatya GL , Lakhey A , Basnet S , Aryal G
Published: March 2013

Background: Gastric cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of cancer related death worldwide. It is the common cause of cancer related death in Nepal. Helicobacter Pylori has been classified as a definite carcinogen along with other factors. The aim of this study was to fi nd the incidence of gastric cancer among the patients undergoing upper gastroscopy, its various subtypes and association with Helicobacter Pylori. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective and prospective study carried out at GRP Polyclinic and Kist Medical College Teaching Hospital. All the patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were included in this study. Data of all the gastric endoscopic biopsies done from June 2011 to January 2013 were collected and analyzed. All the biopsy specimens were processed routinely in histopathology laboratory. Specimens showing carcinoma were enrolled in this study and all the relevant demographic data were collected. Results: Out of 3395 biopsy cases; 49 cases (1.44%) were diagnosed as adenocarcinoma stomach. The overall mean age for carcinoma was 47.6 years with a mild male preponderance. Thirty cases (61.2%) were of intestinal type, (n=11; 22.4%) were of diffuse type and (n=8; 16.3%) were mixed type of adenocarcinoma. According to WHO classifi cation the most common subtype was tubular adenocarcinoma (n=35; 71.5%) followed by signet ring type (11 cases; 22.4%). Out of 49 cases of adenocarcinoma stomach 39 cases (79.5%) were Helicobacter Pylori positive. Conclusion: This study shows that gastric carcinoma is a male predominant neoplasm usually of old age but can occur at younger ages. It predominantly occurs in Helicobacter Pylori infected patients and H. Pylori eradication will help to decrease the incidence rate and mortality of stomach cancer. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 403-407 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7869
An introduction to the science of epigenetics
Authors: Thapa JB
Published: March 2013

Epigenetics has emerged as an important new discipline. This review provides deeper insights into understanding basic defects in methylation, histone modification, and RNA induced silencing of tumours. These mechanisms have important diagnostic and therapeutic implications for many tumours and diseases. New anti-epigenetic based drug therapies have been developed and drug trials are underway. The future will see further developments in this field. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 408-410 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7870
Case reports of two unusual breast lumps
Authors: Pudasaini S
Published: March 2013

Breast lump is a common diagnostic problem both to the general practitioner and to the surgeons. Cases like mammary myxoma and cysticercosis are rare findings and their diagnosis needs to be confirmed on histopathology. Myxoma of the breast is extremely rare and presents with painless swelling. Cysticercosis can affect any organ or tissue of the body and involvement of the breast is unusual. We present reports on two unusual breast lumps in young females with mammary myxoma and cysticercosis. The clinical presentation and its histopathological diagnosis is discussed. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 422-424 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7874
Immature teratoma of kidney in a 5-month-old child
Authors: Adhikari RC , Sayami G
Published: March 2013

We report a rare case of immature renal teratoma in a 5-month-old female infant. The patient presented with abdominal mass, which was found to arise from the left kidney. The preoperative diagnosis of Wilms’ tumor was based on clinical and imaging findings. The patient was managed with nephrectomy and had normal recovery. The histopathological examination of nephrectomy specimen revealed grade 2 immature teratoma. Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2013) Vol. 3, No.1, Issue 5, 425-527 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v3i5.7875
Signaling Pathways in Exosomes Biogenesis, Secretion and Fate
Authors: Urbanelli Lorena , Magini Alessandro , Buratta Sandra , Brozzi Alessandro , Sagini Krizia , Polchi Alice , Tancini Brunella , Emiliani Carla
Published: March 2013

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (30–100 nm) derived from the endosomal system, which have raised considerable interest in the last decade. Several studies have shown that they mediate cell-to-cell communication in a variety of biological processes. Thus, in addition to cell-to-cell direct interaction or secretion of active molecules, they are now considered another class of signal mediators. Exosomes can be secreted by several cell types and retrieved in many body fluids, such as blood, urine, saliva and cerebrospinal fluid. In addition to proteins and lipids, they also contain nucleic acids, namely mRNA and miRNA. These features have prompted extensive research to exploit them as a source of biomarkers for several pathologies, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. In this context, exosomes also appear attractive as gene delivery vehicles. Furthermore, exosome immunomodulatory and regenerative properties are also encouraging their application for further therapeutic purposes. Nevertheless, several issues remain to be addressed: exosome biogenesis and secretion mechanisms have not been clearly understood, and physiological functions, as well as pathological roles, are far from being satisfactorily elucidated.
Food Fortification and Decline in the Prevalence of Neural Tube Defects: Does Public Intervention Reduce the Socioeconomic Gap in Prevalence?
Authors: Agha Mohammad , Glazier Richard , Moineddin Rahim , Moore Aideen , Guttmann Astrid
Published: March 2013

Objective: A significant decline in the prevalence of neural tube defects (NTD) through food fortification has been reported. Questions remain, however, about the effectiveness of this intervention in reducing the gap in prevalence across socioeconomic status (SES). Study Design: Using health number and through record linkage, children born in Ontario hospitals between 1994 and 2009 were followed for the diagnosis of congenital anomalies. SES quintiles were assigned to each child using census information at the time of birth. Adjusted rates and multivariate models were used to compare trends among children born in different SES groups. Results: Children born in low SES areas had significantly higher rates of NTDs (RR = 1.25, CI: 1.14–1.37). Prevalence of NTDs among children born in low and high SES areas declined since food fortification began in 1999 although has started rising again since 2006. While the crude decline was greater in low SES areas, after adjustment for maternal age, the slope of decline and SES gap in prevalence rates remained unchanged overtime. Conclusions: While food fortification is successful in reducing the prevalence of NTDs, it was not associated with removing the gap between high and low SES groups.
Effect of Opuntia humifusa Supplementation and Acute Exercise on Insulin Sensitivity and Associations with PPAR-γ and PGC-1α Protein Expression in Skeletal Muscle of Rats
Authors: Kang Junyong , Lee Junghun , Kwon Daekeun , Song Youngju
Published: March 2013

This study examined whether Opuntia humifusa (O. humifusa), which is a member of the Cactaceae family, supplementation and acute swimming exercise affect insulin sensitivity and associations with PPAR-γ and PGC-1α protein expression in rats. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups (HS: high fat diet sedentary group, n = 8; HE: high fat diet acute exercise group, n = 8; OS: 5% O. humifusa supplemented high fat diet sedentary group, n = 8; OE: 5% O. humifusa supplemented high fat diet acute exercise group, n = 8). Rats in the HE and OE swam for 120 min. before being sacrificed. Our results indicated that serum glucose level, fasting insulin level and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in OS were significantly lower compared to those of the HS (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.05). In addition, PPAR-γ protein expression in the OS and OE was significantly higher than that of the HS and HE, respectively (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). PGC-1α and GLUT-4 protein expressions in the OS were significantly higher compared to those of the HS (p < 0.05, p < 0.05). From these results, O. humifusa supplementation might play an important role for improving insulin sensitivity through elevation of PPAR-γ, PGC-1α, and GLUT-4 protein expression in rat skeletal muscle.
Bioactive Compounds from the Red Sea Marine Sponge Hyrtios Species
Authors: Youssef Diaa , Shaala Lamiaa , Asfour Hani
Published: March 2013

In continuation of our search for drug leads from Red Sea sponges we have investigated the ethyl acetate fraction of the organic extract of the Red Sea sponge Hyrtios species. Bioassay-directed fractionation of the active fraction resulted into the identification of three new alkaloids, hyrtioerectines D–F (1–3). Hyrtioerectines D–F belong to the rare marine alkaloids in which the indole and β-carboline fragments of the molecule are linked through C-3/C-3 of both moieties. The structures of the isolated compounds were established based on different spectroscopic data including UV, IR, 1D and 2D NMR (COSY, HSQC, and HMBC) and high-resolution mass spectral studies. The antimicrobial activity against several pathogens and the free radical scavenging activity of the compounds using DPPH reagent were evaluated. In addition, the growth inhibitory activity of the compounds against three cancer cell lines was also evaluated. Hyrtioerectines D–F (1–3) displayed variable antimicrobial, free radical scavenging and cancer growth inhibition activities. Generally, compounds 1 and 3 were more active than compound 2.
Sponge-Derived Kocuria and Micrococcus spp. as Sources of the New Thiazolyl Peptide Antibiotic Kocurin
Authors: Palomo Sara , González Ignacio , De la Cruz Mercedes , Martín Jesús , Tormo José , Anderson Matthew , Hill Russell , Vicente Francisca , Reyes Fernando , Genilloud Olga
Published: March 2013

Forty four marine actinomycetes of the family Microccocaceae isolated from sponges collected primarily in Florida Keys (USA) were selected from our strain collection to be studied as new sources for the production of bioactive natural products. A 16S rRNA gene based phylogenetic analysis showed that the strains are members of the genera Kocuria and Micrococcus. To assess their biosynthetic potential, the strains were PCR screened for the presence of secondary metabolite genes encoding nonribosomal synthetase (NRPS) and polyketide synthases (PKS). A small extract collection of 528 crude extracts generated from nutritional microfermentation arrays was tested for the production of bioactive secondary metabolites against clinically relevant strains (Bacillus subtilis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter baumannii and Candida albicans). Three independent isolates were shown to produce a new anti-MRSA bioactive compound that was identified as kocurin, a new member of the thiazolyl peptide family of antibiotics emphasizing the role of this family as a prolific resource for novel drugs.
Quantitative Phase Imaging Techniques for the Study of Cell Pathophysiology: From Principles to Applications
Authors: Lee KyeoReh , Kim Kyoohyun , Jung Jaehwang , Heo JiHan , Cho Sangyeon , Lee Sangyun , Chang Gyuyoung , Jo YoungJu , Park Hyunjoo , Park YongKeun
Published: March 2013

A cellular-level study of the pathophysiology is crucial for understanding the mechanisms behind human diseases. Recent advances in quantitative phase imaging (QPI) techniques show promises for the cellular-level understanding of the pathophysiology of diseases. To provide important insight on how the QPI techniques potentially improve the study of cell pathophysiology, here we present the principles of QPI and highlight some of the recent applications of QPI ranging from cell homeostasis to infectious diseases and cancer.
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Multivariate Analysis for Identification of Different Vegetable Oils Used in Biodiesel Production
Authors: Mueller Daniela , Ferrão Marco , Marder Luciano , Da Costa Adilson , De Cássia de Souza Schneider Rosana
Published: March 2013

The main objective of this study was to use infrared spectroscopy to identify vegetable oils used as raw material for biodiesel production and apply multivariate analysis to the data. Six different vegetable oil sources—canola, cotton, corn, palm, sunflower and soybeans—were used to produce biodiesel batches. The spectra were acquired by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy using a universal attenuated total reflectance sensor (FTIR-UATR). For the multivariate analysis principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), interval principal component analysis (iPCA) and soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA) were used. The results indicate that is possible to develop a methodology to identify vegetable oils used as raw material in the production of biodiesel by FTIR-UATR applying multivariate analysis. It was also observed that the iPCA found the best spectral range for separation of biodiesel batches using FTIR-UATR data, and with this result, the SIMCA method classified 100% of the soybean biodiesel samples.
An Optofluidic Temperature Probe
Authors: Węgrzyn Ilona , Ainla Alar , Jeffries Gavin , Jesorka Aldo
Published: March 2013

We report the application of a microfluidic device for semi-contact temperature measurement in picoliter volumes of aqueous media. Our device, a freely positionable multifunctional pipette, operates by a hydrodynamic confinement principle, i.e., by creating a virtual flow cell of micrometer dimensions within a greater aqueous volume. We utilized two fluorescent rhodamines, which exhibit different fluorescent responses with temperature, and made ratiometric intensity measurements. The temperature dependence of the intensity ratio was calibrated and used in a model study of the thermal activation of TRPV1 ion channels expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. Our approach represents a practical and robust solution to the specific problem of measuring temperature in biological experiments in vitro, involving highly localized heat generation, for example with an IR-B laser.