bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parathyroid Carcinoma of the Mediastinum
Authors: Peshev Zhivko V. , Borisov Borislav B. , Genova Sylvia N. , Danev Vladimir H.
Published: June 2013

Parathyroid carcinoma accounts for about 4% of all diseases of the parathyroid glands. It usually presents as a tumor mass in the neck region. Mediastinal parathyroid carcinoma has been reported very rarely.

The present paper reports an ectopic parathyroid carcinoma in the anterior mediastinum in a 54-year male that failed to be recognized antemortem. The markedly elevated serum calcium levels were repeatedly put down to laboratory errors, and the clinical features of primary hyperparathyroidism were misjudged and managed only symptomatically. The terminal cardiogenic shock was associated with myocardial infarction. Coronary plastic surgery was carried out and a stent was placed.

The postmortem examination found a solid elastic tumor mass (4 cm) firmly encapsulated in the upper half of the anterior mediastinum having trabecular structure, mild nuclear and cellular polymorphism, single irregular mitoses and an area of necrosis. The mass invaded the capsule and the surrounding adipose tissue, there were tumor emboli found in the lymph and blood vessels. Immunohistochemical study showed diffuse expression of low molecular weight cytokeratin, chromogranin A and synaptophysin, and more than 20% of the tumor cells were Ki-67 positive. Glycogen granules were found in their cytoplasm. There were clearly seen metastatic calcifications in the intramural coronary vessels, the cardiomyocytes, the kidneys and the lungs.

The present case report contributes considerably to the differential diagnosis of hypercalcemia.
A new viscosity-temperature relationship for mineral oil SAE 10W
Authors: Stanciu Ioana
Published: June 2013

This article proposes four relationships of dynamic viscosity temperature dependence for a nonaddtivated mineral oil. The purpose of this study was to find a polynomial or exponential dependence between temperature and dynamic viscosity of mineral oil, using the Andrade equation changes. Equation constants A, B, C and D were determined by fitting polynomial or exponential.
Genetic Diversity Analysis In Brassica rapa Using Morphological Characters
Authors: Jahan N , Bhuiyan SR , Talukder MZA , Alam MA , Parvin M
Published: June 2013

A field experiment was conducted in the experimental field of Genetics and Plant Breeding Department, Sher-e Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh to study on genetic diversity in 10 F4 lines obtained through intervarietal crosses along with 8 released varieties of Brassica rapa during November 2007 to February 2008. Different Multivariate analyses were performed to classify 18 genotypes. All the genotypes were grouped into four clusters. Cluster IV was the largest comprising of 7 genotypes and cluster II was the smallest with 2 genotypes. Cluster II had the highest intra-cluster distance and Cluster I had the lowest intra cluster distance. Inter cluster distance was maximum (11.697) between clusters II and III. The results revealed that genotypes chosen for hybridization from clusters with highest distances would give high heterotic F1 and broad spectrum of variability in segregating generations. The characters- number of primary branches/plant, number of secondary branches/plant and days to 50% flowering contributed maximum towards divergence among Brassica genotypes. Considering cluster distance, inter genotypic distance and other agronomic performance G2 and G14 from cluster I; G18 from cluster II; G1, G9 and G12 from cluster III and G16 and G17 from cluster IV may be considered as better parents for future uses in hybridization program. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 11-18, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15185
Response Of Chilli (Capsium annuum L.) To Zinc And Boron Application
Authors: Shil KNC , Naser HM , Brahma S , Yousuf MN , Rashid MH
Published: June 2013

Field trial on chilli (cv. Bogra local) was conducted in Grey Terrace Soil under AEZ-25 (Level Barind Tract) at Spice Research Centre, Bogra during rabi seasons of 2005-2006, 2006-2007 and 2007-2008. The objectives were to evaluate the response of chilli to zinc and boron and to find out the optimum dose of zinc and boron for maximizing the yield. Treatments for this study comprised of four levels each of zinc (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 kg/ha) and boron (0, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 kg/ha) along with a blanket dose of N130 P60 K80 S20 Mg10 kg/ha. The experiment was set up in a randomized block design (factorial) with 3 replications. The integrated use of zinc and boron was found superior to their single applications. The interaction effect between zinc and boron was significant in case of yield of dry chilli and weight of ripe chilli/plant. The highest yield (1138 kg/ha) was recorded from Zn3B1 kg/ha, which was closely followed by Zn3B2, Zn4.5B2 and the lowest (703 kg/ha) in control (Zn0B0). The yield benefit over control varied from 4.4 to 61.9 % due to interaction effect. Consecutive three years studies showed almost similar trend of results. However, from regression analysis, the optimum-economic dose of zinc was found to be 3.91 kg/ha whereas it was 1.70 for boron. Hence, a package of (Zn3.91 B1.70 kg/ha) along with the said blanket dose may be recommended for maximizing the yield of chilli in the study area. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 49-59, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15189
Comparative Effectiveness Of Seed Treating And Foliar Insecticides Against Sucking Pests Of Cotton And Impact On Their Natural Enemies
Authors: Hossain SMA , Baque MA , Amin MR
Published: June 2013

The Imidacloprid insecticide, Gaucho 70 WS at 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5 g/kg seed was used as seed treatment and monocrotophos 40 WSC at 1120 ml/ha was applied as foliar spray on CB9 cotton cultivar to suppress aphid, whitefly and thrips, and impact on their natural enemies during 2008-2011 at the Regional Cotton Research Station, Dinajpur, Bangladesh. The activity of natural enemies, such as ladybird beetle, lacewing, syrphid, and spider population on the sucking pests attacking cotton cultivar CB9 and yield of cotton were recorded. Imidacloprid significantly reduced aphid, whitefly, and thrips population on cotton crops compared to untreated control or foliar spray of monocrotophos 40 WSC at 1120 ml/ha. Ladybird beetles, lacewings, syrphids, and spiders were abundant in the field but their population decreased in the treated plots compared to untreated control. The CB9 cotton cultivar produced significantly higher yield (1.73 t/ha) with a benefit cost ratio 12.47 when seeds were treated with Imidacloprid at 5.5 g/kg fuzzy seed. This study indicated that Imidacloprid (Gaucho 70 WS) used as a seed treatment may be suggested to the cotton growers for controlling sucking pests. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 61-70, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15190
Estimation Of Genetic Divergence In Lablab Bean (Lablab purpureus L.) Genotypes
Authors: Salim M , Hossain S , Alam S , Rashid JA , Islam S
Published: June 2013

An experiment for diversity analysis with 66 genotypes of lablab bean (Lablab purpureus L.) was conducted at Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) during 2009-2010. Data were collected from all experimental plants on the following characters: days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, days to first pod setting, no. of pods per plant, wt. of 20 pods (g), pod yield per plant (g), pod length (cm), number of seeds per pod, number of seeds per plant, 100-seed weight (g), and seed yield per plant (g). As per multivariate analysis, the genotypes were grouped into seven clusters. The highest number of genotypes 15 was included in cluster V followed by cluster II, which contained 13 genotypes. Cluster III, I, VI, IV contained 12, 11, 6, and 5 genotypes, respectively. The cluster VII which included 4 genotypes was the smallest among the 7 clusters. It is important to note that the highest amount of genetic divergence within the cluster group was noticed in the cluster VII having only 4 genotypes. The inter-cluster distances (D2) were higher than the intra-cluster distances. The inter-cluster D2 values varied from 2059.094 to 19302.6. The distances between the cluster VII and V; VII and VI; VII and II and VII and I were comparatively high than the other inter-cluster distances. The genotypes of these clusters were thus more diversified for yield and yield contributing characters. The intracluster distance (8502.795) observed in cluster VII revealed maximum diversity among themselves. While the least variation (625.372) was noticed between genotypes of the cluster II signifying the closeness of the genotypes included in this cluster. Data on the contribution of individual characters towards divergence suggested that no. of pods per plant contributed maximum (34.033%) to the genetic divergence followed by pod yield per plant and 100-seed weight. The genotypes of the cluster VII produced highest pods per plant and those of the cluster II produced lowest pod yield per plant. Seed yield per plant was found to be highest in cluster VII and lowest in cluster II. Results of the study suggested that selection for these traits in climbing genotypes might be effective. By strategically using this diversity, the breeder can develop high yielding varieties of lablab bean. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 105-114, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15195
Study On Intercropping Leafy Vegetables With Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
Authors: Ahmed F , Islam MN , Alom Ms , Sarker MAI , Mannaf MA
Published: June 2013

A field experiment on intercropping of okra and leafy vegetables was conducted at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Joydebpur, Gazipur and Agricultural Research Station, Burirhat, Rangpur during Kharif-I season of 2010 and 2011 to find out suitable crop combination for higher productivity and economic return. Seven treatments viz., sole okra (50 cm × 40cm), okra 100% (in row) + red-amaranth 100% (broadcast), okra 100% (in row) + red-amaranth 75% (broadcast), okra 100% (in row) + leaf amaranth 100% (broadcast), okra 100% (in row) + leaf amaranth 75% (broadcast), okra 100% (in row) + jute as patshak 100% (broadcast), okra 100% (in row) + jute as patshak 75% (broadcast) were used. Intercropping reduced okra yield but total productivity increased due to additional yield of vegetables. In both the locations, sole okra produced the highest yields (15.82 t/ha at Joydebpur and 13.79 t/ha at Burirhat). Among the intercropping treatments, the highest okra yields (15.42 t/ha at Joydebpur and 12.64 t/ha at Burirhat) were obtained from okra 100%+ red amaranth 75% combination. The lowest okra yield (13.16 t/ha at Joydebpur and 11.75 t/ha at Burirhat) was recorded in okra 100% + jute as patshak 100% combination. The highest okra equivalent yield (23.00 t/ha) was recorded in okra 100% + red amaranth 100% at Joydebpur and in okra 100% + leaf amaranth 100% (21.79 t/ha) at Burirhat. These treatment combinations also gave the highest gross margin (Tk. 227180/ha at Joydebpur and Tk. 214600/ha at Burirhat) and benefit cost ratio (5.66 at Joydebpur and 5.58 at Burirhat). The results revealed that cent percent red amaranth (broadcast) or leaf amaranth intercropped with cent percent okra might be suitable combination for higher productivity and economic return at Joydebpur and Burirhat, respectively. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 137-143, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15199
Effect Of Ga3 And Row Ratio On Floral Traits Of Component Lines Of BRRI Hybrid Dhan2
Authors: Rahman MH , Khatun MM , Khan MSR , Haque MM , Rasul MG
Published: June 2013

Component lines (A and R lines) of BRRI hybrid dhan2 were assessed under treatment of GA3 application and row ratio on days to 5% and 50% flowering, duration of opening of floret, angle of open floret, filament length, anther length, stigma length, panicle exsertion rate, stigma exsertion rate and outcrossing rate. The CMS line viz; BRRI 10A have been found to be usable female parents for hybrid rice seed production due to their stigma length, stigma exsertion rate, duration of blooming, anther length and filament length. The different between genotypic and phenotypic variation was not remarkable for most of the characters studied indicating negligible environmental influence on the traits. The maximum duration of opening of floret (158.10 min) and angle of floret opening (28.870) were obtained with the application of 350 g GA3 ha-1. The improvement in the floral traits with increased GA3 level might be due to increased availability of GA3 which enhanced floral traits. The CMS line can be used as potential female parent in hybrid rice seed production of BRRI hybrid dhan2. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 38(1): 155-163, March 2013 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v38i1.15202
Microbiological quality assessment of Chapila (Gudusia chapra) and Tengra (Mystus vittatus) in Bangladesh
Authors: Quaiyum Md Abdul , Rahman Md Mofizur , Sarker Bhakta Supratim , Alam Md Masud , Khan Najmus Sakib , Rahman Mohammad Shamsur , Siddiqui Rokeya
Published: June 2013

Present study was conducted to determine and quantify the occurrence of various types of microorganisms in raw and final products of Chapila (Gudusia chapra) and Tengra (Mystus vittatus) and also to enhance food safety with a view of promoting international trade. Raw and frozen Chapila and Tengra samleswere collected and the microbial analysis was conducted. In case of raw product of Chapila, the aerobic plate count (APC) was 2.6×105 cfu/g, whereas in frozen products, the load was estimated to be 4.0×105 cfu/g. Furthermore, while APC of raw Tengra was 2×105 cfu/g, the APCs were 3.3×106 cfu/g in frozen product. Total coliform in raw and frozen Chapila was found to be 36.00 ± 2.3 MPN/g and 7.2 ± 1.01 MPN/g, respectively and 27.00 ± 5.57 MPN/g and 9.4 ± 3.75 MPN/g, respectively were found in raw and frozen Tengra samples. Moreover, Fecal coliform in frozen samples of Chapila and Tengra was found within the acceptable limit (<3 MPN/g). Salmonella spp. and Vibrio cholerae were not detected in any of the raw and frozen Chapila and Tengra samples. Overall, the present study reveals that tested frozen fish samples from the fish processing plant were good enough for export and of better quality than raw fish samples from the microbiological point of view. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15203 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 6-9
Assessment of probiotic application of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from different food items
Authors: Siddiqee Mahbubul Hasan , Sarker Hashem , Shurovi Khandaker Mahzebin
Published: June 2013

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are regarded as effective probiotic organisms and used with a view of augmenting the safety of the food. In the present study, five food items (meat, fish, apple, milk and carrot) were selected having high nutritive and economic value, assumptive of harboring lactic acid bacteria. A total of 29 LABs were isolated from 5 different samples after 2 batches of fermentation. All of the isolates were then tested against 4 most frequently encountered pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Vibrio cholerae. Among all these isolates, those from meat and fish samples showed positive average inhibitory coefficient (AIC) against two target pathogens, while those from milk and carrot showed positive AIC against three pathogens each, and isolates from apple revealed positive AIC against all four pathogens used. More than 50% of the isolates were found to inhibit or mask the pathogens when allowed to grow along with the individual pathogen on the each tested food item. Out of 29 isolates, 17 were found to successfully inhibit Escherichia coli, 11 worked against S. aureus, 11 against S. typhimurium, and 13 showed significant effect against V. cholerae. Among these isolates ML4, ML8, AP5 and CR3 most notably showed the potential to inhibit or mask at least three of the target pathogenic strains. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15203 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 6-9
Frequency of drug resistant Salmonella spp. isolated from poultry samples in Bangladesh
Authors: Akond Muhammad Ali , Shirin Momena , Alam Saidul , Hassan SMR , Rahman Md Mahbubur , Hoq Mozammel
Published: June 2013

Present study was conducted to determine the levels of Salmonella spp. mediated contamination in samples collected from poultry and poultry environments in Bangladesh and to determine the antibiotic resistance trait in those pathogens. A total of 300 samples were collected from five different sources (cloacal swab, intestinal fluid, egg surface, hand wash of chicken handler and soil of chicken market) and 80 (26.6%) samples were found to be contaminated with Salmonella spp. One hundred and fifty Salmonella strains were isolated among which, 91 were detected as S. enteriditis and 59 as S. typhimurium through morphological, biochemical and serological tests. Susceptibility of the isolates against 13 antimicrobials was tested, and resistance against chloramphenicol (30 ?g), erythromycin (15 ?g), ampicillin (10 ?g), riphampicin (5 ?g), cephalexin (15 ?g), cefixine (5 ?g), penicillin (10 ?g), tetracycline (30 ?g), norfloxacin (10 ?g), nalidixic acid (30 ?g) and ciprofloxacin (10 ?g) was found in 58%, 82%, 88%, 60%, 65%, 50%, 100%, 100%, 20%, 20% and 20% of the strains, consecutively. 76% isolates were found to be sensitive against gentamicin and 70% against streptomycin. Some of the isolates interestingly exhibited multiple-drug resistances against at least 6 to 10 antibiotics. The results indicated the higher resistance of Salmonella spp. against antibiotics which serving as a threat not only to poultry industry of Bangladesh but also possesses a serious threat to public and animal health. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15207 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 15-19
Assessment of pollution caused by tannery-waste and its impact on aquatic bacterial community in Hajaribag, Dhaka
Authors: Siddiqee Mahbubul Hasan , Islam Md Saiful , Rahman M Majibur
Published: June 2013

The leather industries of Hajaribag area, Dhaka city, produce hundreds of metric tons of inorganic and organic wastes which pollute the adjacent water bodies including the river Buriganga. In the present study, a total of 18 water samples from 6 different points along the effluent distribution route were examined. Along with the dissolved oxygen concentration (DO), acidity (pH), conductivity, and concentration of total dissolved solute (TDS), concentration of the samples were measured followed by the enumeration of total heterotrophic bacteria. Pure cultures of bacterial isolates were obtained after a brief enrichment and the isolates were biochemically identified up to genus level. The physicochemical test readings showed significant fluctuations in different points indicating radically heterogeneous conditions throughout the distribution system. The total count varied from 1.2x102 to 6.3x103 cfu/ml. Different bacterial genera including Alcaligenes spp., Bacillus spp., Corynebacterium spp., Escherichia spp., Micrococcus spp., Pseudomonas spp., Shigella spp., Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. were isolated from the collected samples. The bacterial community was found to be diversified where the concentration of tannery waste was less; thereby it was assumed that the tannery waste might affect the aquatic bacterial community both quantitatively and qualitatively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15208 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 20-23
Bactericidal activity of the sera of rabbits immunized with Vibrio cholerae O1 whole cell extract
Authors: Rahman Tasmina , Ahsan Chowdhury Rafiqul
Published: June 2013

Vibrio cholerae serotype O1 causes diarrhea in many developing countries around the world. In most cases, cholera patients pose some sorts of immunity against the naturally occurring infection. In the present study, the bactericidal activity of the sera of rabbit immunized with whole cell extract of Vibrio cholerae O1 was investigated. The protein profile of the serotype exhibited 20 types of proteins of distinguished molecular weights. The western blot analysis revealed at least 10 proteins to be immunogenic. Interestingly, decomplementation of the sera was found to abolish the bactericidal activity. The bactericidal activity of non immunized rabbit sera was also investigated and the results revealed that the immunized sera were more effective than that of non immunized one. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15209 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 24-27
Determination of the frequency of carbapenemase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in Dhaka city, Bangladesh
Authors: Hayder Nawshad , Hasan Zahidul , Afrin Sadia , Noor Rashed
Published: June 2013

Resistance of Klebsiella pneumoniae against carbapenem, imparted by the presence of carbapenemase, is an emerging global health problem with high morbidity and mortality. Thus, the present study attempted to detect the frequency of carbapenemase producing K. pneumoniae in Dhaka city of Bangladesh and thereby determine the health risk associated with their presence. A total of 647 K. pneumoniae isolates were detected from 2800 patients with urinary tract infection, bacterimia, wound infections and respiratory diseases. Thirty one carbapenem resistant isolates were found to harbor K. pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) through modified Hodge test. The KPC positive isolates were then subjected to the study of antibiogram and showed resistance against all the ß-lactam antibiotics along with carbapenems, while they were sensitive against colistin. Additionally, 287 isolates were found to be extended-spectrum ?-lactamases (ESBLs) positive apart from the KPC positive ones. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15210 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 28-30
Prevalence of Vibrio cholerae in human-, poultry-, animal excreta and compost samples
Authors: Uddin Md Aftab , Ullah Md Wali , Noor Rashed
Published: June 2013

Transmission of Vibrio cholerae might take place in water bodies that often undergo contamination with human-, poultry- and animal excreta. In the present study, wastes from all three categories were analyzed microbiologically. Twelve poultry excreta samples, 12 human excreta samples and 12 cowdung samples were examined for the presence of V. cholerae. High prevalence of V. cholerae was found in each of the samples and the highest prevalence was observed for human excreta samples (2.2x108 cfu/g). Besides, 24 compost samples, which were prepared using human feces, were tested. The load of V. cholerae was found lower in the compost samples (from 0 to 2.2x103 cfu/g) than that of the excreta samples. The study of antibiogram showed that all the isolates were resistant against ampicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid, meropenem and cefotaxime. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15213 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 38-41
Epigenetics and Colorectal Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Bardhan Kankana , Liu Kebin
Published: June 2013

Colorectal cancer (CRC) develops through a multistage process that results from the progressive accumulation of genetic mutations, and frequently as a result of mutations in the Wnt signaling pathway. However, it has become evident over the past two decades that epigenetic alterations of the chromatin, particularly the chromatin components in the promoter regions of tumor suppressors and oncogenes, play key roles in CRC pathogenesis. Epigenetic regulation is organized at multiple levels, involving primarily DNA methylation and selective histone modifications in cancer cells. Assessment of the CRC epigenome has revealed that virtually all CRCs have aberrantly methylated genes and that the average CRC methylome has thousands of abnormally methylated genes. Although relatively less is known about the patterns of specific histone modifications in CRC, selective histone modifications and resultant chromatin conformation have been shown to act, in concert with DNA methylation, to regulate gene expression to mediate CRC pathogenesis. Moreover, it is now clear that not only DNA methylation but also histone modifications are reversible processes. The increased understanding of epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the context of CRC pathogenesis has led to development of epigenetic biomarkers for CRC diagnosis and epigenetic drugs for CRC therapy.
Bootstrap Methods for the Empirical Study of Decision-Making and Information Flows in Social Systems
Authors: DeDeo Simon , Hawkins Robert , Klingenstein Sara , Hitchcock Tim
Published: June 2013

We characterize the statistical bootstrap for the estimation of informationtheoretic quantities from data, with particular reference to its use in the study of large-scale social phenomena. Our methods allow one to preserve, approximately, the underlying axiomatic relationships of information theory—in particular, consistency under arbitrary coarse-graining—that motivate use of these quantities in the first place, while providing reliability comparable to the state of the art for Bayesian estimators. We show how information-theoretic quantities allow for rigorous empirical study of the decision-making capacities of rational agents, and the time-asymmetric flows of information in distributed systems. We provide illustrative examples by reference to ongoing collaborative work on the semantic structure of the British Criminal Court system and the conflict dynamics of the contemporary Afghanistan insurgency.
The Social Determinants of Infant Mortality and Birth Outcomes in Western Developed Nations: A Cross-Country Systematic Review
Authors: Kim Daniel , Saada Adrianna
Published: June 2013

Infant mortality (IM) and birth outcomes, key population health indicators, have lifelong implications for individuals, and are unequally distributed globally. Even among western industrialized nations, striking cross-country and within-country patterns are evident. We sought to better understand these variations across and within the United States of America (USA) and Western Europe (WE), by conceptualizing a social determinants of IM/birth outcomes framework, and systematically reviewing the empirical literature on hypothesized social determinants (e.g., social policies, neighbourhood deprivation, individual socioeconomic status (SES)) and intermediary determinants (e.g., health behaviours). To date, the evidence suggests that income inequality and social policies (e.g., maternal leave policies) may help to explain cross-country variations in IM/birth outcomes. Within countries, the evidence also supports neighbourhood SES (USA, WE) and income inequality (USA) as social determinants. By contrast, within-country social cohesion/social capital has been underexplored. At the individual level, mixed associations have been found between individual SES, race/ethnicity, and selected intermediary factors (e.g., psychosocial factors) with IM/birth outcomes. Meanwhile, this review identifies several methodological gaps, including the underuse of prospective designs and the presence of residual confounding in a number of studies. Ultimately, addressing such gaps including through novel approaches to strengthen causal inference and implementing both health and non-health policies may reduce inequities in IM/birth outcomes across the western developed world.
In Vitro and in Vivo Models of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Kanuri Giridhar , Bergheim Ina
Published: June 2013

By now, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered to be among the most common liver diseases world-wide. NAFLD encompasses a broad spectrum of pathological conditions ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, fibrosis and finally even cirrhosis; however, only a minority of patients progress to end-stages of the disease, and the course of the disease progression to the later stages seems to be slow, developing progressively over several years. Key risk factors including overweight, insulin resistance, a sedentary life-style and an altered dietary pattern, as well as genetic factors and disturbances of the intestinal barrier function have been identified in recent years. Despite intense research efforts that lead to the identification of these risk factors, knowledge about disease initiation and molecular mechanisms involved in progression is still limited. This review summarizes diet-induced and genetic animal models, as well as cell culture models commonly used in recent years to add to the understanding of the mechanisms involved in NAFLD, also referring to their advantages and disadvantages.
Role of EZH2 in the Growth of Prostate Cancer Stem Cells Isolated from LNCaP Cells
Authors: Li Kuiqing , Liu Cheng , Zhou Bangfen , Bi Liangkuan , Huang Hai , Lin Tianxin , Xu Kewei
Published: June 2013

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) plays a crucial role in embryonic and somatic stem cells for their proliferation and differentiation. However, the roles and underlying mechanisms of EZH2 in prostate cancer stem cells (PCSCs) remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of EZH2 on PCSCs. PCSCs were isolated from the human prostate cancer cell line LNcap by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). EZH2 expression was compared between PCSCs and non-PCSCs. The association between EZH2 function and PCSC growth was investigated using siRNA-mediated knock-down of EZH2. Cell growth was investigated by MTT, cell cycle and apoptosis of PCSCs were explored by flow cytometric analysis. Finally, the upstream pathway miRNA level was determined via a luciferase reporter assay, and the downstream pathway cycle regulators were examined via reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that LNcap cell line comprised a greater proportion of CD44+/CD133+ cells by comparison to the PC-3 cell line. EZH2 was up-regulated in PCSCs compared with non-PCSCs. Silence of EZH2 inhibited cell growth and the cell cycle and promoted the progression of apoptosis. Furthermore, EZH2 was a direct target of miR-101 in PCSCs and EZH2’s mRNA levels were inversely correlated with miR-101 expression and cyclin E2 (a cell-cycle regulator) was suppressed by siEZH2. In conclusion, EZH2 is essential for PCSC growth, partly through a negative regulation by miR-101 and positively regulating cyclin E2.
Cloning and Polymorphisms of Yak Lactate Dehydrogenase b Gene
Authors: Wang Guosheng , Zhao Xingbo , Zhong Juming , Cao Meng , He Qinghua , Liu Zhengxin , Lin Yaqiu , Xu Yaou , Zheng Yucai
Published: June 2013

The main objective of this work was to study the unique polymorphisms of the lactate dehydrogenase-1 (LDH1) gene in yak (Bos grunniens). Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed three phenotypes of LDH1 (a tetramer of H subunit) in yak heart and longissimus muscle extracts. The corresponding gene, ldhb, encoding H subunits of three LDH1 phenotypes was obtained by RT-PCR. A total of six nucleotide differences were detected in yak ldhb compared with that of cattle, of which five mutations cause amino acid substitutions. Sequence analysis shows that the G896A and C689A, mutations of ldhb gene, result in alterations of differently charged amino acids, and create the three phenotypes (F, M, and S) of yak LDH1. Molecular modeling of the H subunit of LDH indicates that the substituted amino acids are not located within NAD+ or substrate binding sites. PCR-RFLP examination of G896A mutation demonstrated that most LDH1-F samples are actually heterozygote at this site. These results help to elucidate the molecular basis and genetic characteristic of the three unique LDH1 phenotypes in yak.
Combination of Low Concentration of (−)-Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) and Curcumin Strongly Suppresses the Growth of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Vitro and in Vivo through Causing Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Zhou Dong-Hu , Wang Xuemin , Yang Mingmin , Shi Xiaoyan , Huang Wenbin , Feng Qing
Published: June 2013

(−)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and curcumin are two naturally derived agents that have been widely investigated worldwide. They exhibit their anti-tumor effects in many types of cancers. In the current study, the effect of the combination of the two agents on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells was investigated. The results revealed that at low concentrations, the combination of the EGCG and curcumin strongly enhanced cell cycle arrest. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the cells were arrested at G1 and S/G2 phases. Two main cell cycle related proteins cyclin D1 and cyclin B1 were significantly inhibited at the present of EGCG and curcumin. EdU (5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) fluorescence staining showed that the DNA replication was significantly blocked. A clonal growth assay also confirmed a marked repression of cell growth. In a lung cancer xenograft node mice model, combination of EGCG and curcumin exhibited protective effect against weight loss due to tumor burden. Tumor growth was strongly repressed by the combination of the two agents, without causing any serious side-effect. Overall, these results strongly suggest that EGCG in combination with curcumin could be a candidate for chemoprevention agent of NSCLC.
(+)-Dehydroabietic Acid, an Abietane-Type Diterpene, Inhibits Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms in Vitro
Authors: Fallarero Adyary , Skogman Malena , Kujala Janni , Rajaratnam Mohanathas , Moreira Vânia , Yli-Kauhaluoma Jari , Vuorela Pia
Published: June 2013

Potent drugs are desperately needed to counteract bacterial biofilm infections, especially those caused by gram-positive organisms, such as Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, anti-biofilm compounds/agents that can be used as chemical tools are also needed for basic in vitro or in vivo studies aimed at exploring biofilms behavior and functionability. In this contribution, a collection of naturally-occurring abietane-type diterpenes and their derivatives was tested against S. aureus biofilms using a platform consisting of two phenotypic assays that have been previously published by our group. Three active compounds were identified: nordehydroabietylamine (1), (+)-dehydroabietic acid (2) and (+)-dehydroabietylamine (3) that prevented biofilm formation in the low micromolar range, and unlike typical antibiotics, only 2 to 4-fold higher concentrations were needed to significantly reduce viability and biomass of existing biofilms. Compound 2, (+)-dehydroabietic acid, was the most selective towards biofilm bacteria, achieving high killing efficacy (based on log Reduction values) and it was best tolerated by three different mammalian cell lines. Since (+)-dehydroabietic acid is an easily available compound, it holds great potential to be used as a molecular probe in biofilms-related studies as well as to serve as inspirational chemical model for the development of potent drug candidates.
The Use of the Death Penalty for Drug Trafficking in the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand: A Comparative Legal Analysis
Authors: Leechaianan Yingyos , Longmire Dennis
Published: June 2013

This article assesses the use of capital punishment for drug trafficking and related crimes from a comparative perspective. Domestic narcotics legislation, as well as important drug trafficking cases in four Southeast Asian nations (Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand) are examined in-depth and compared to the United States, which plays an important role in eradicating global drug-related problems. This article contends that the use of capital punishment is disproportionate to the gravity of drug-related offenses and that international drug control and enforcement treaties never suggested using such sanctions to deter crime. Fortunately, four Southeast Asian countries in this study, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand, currently realize this disproportionality and have become reluctant to carry out executions for drug trafficking; even though they continue to sentence a large number of drug-related offenders to death annually, they do not actually carry out these executions. Future research related to this topic is also recommended in this article.
Mechanisms of Silver Nanoparticle Release, Transformation and Toxicity: A Critical Review of Current Knowledge and Recommendations for Future Studies and Applications
Authors: Reidy Bogumiła , Haase Andrea , Luch Andreas , Dawson Kenneth , Lynch Iseult
Published: June 2013

Nanosilver, due to its small particle size and enormous specific surface area, facilitates more rapid dissolution of ions than the equivalent bulk material; potentially leading to increased toxicity of nanosilver. This, coupled with their capacity to adsorb biomolecules and interact with biological receptors can mean that nanoparticles can reach sub-cellular locations leading to potentially higher localized concentrations of ions once those particles start to dissolve or degrade in situ. Further complicating the story is the capacity for nanoparticles to generate reactive oxygen species, and to interact with, and potentially disturb the functioning of biomolecules such as proteins, enzymes and DNA. The fact that the nanoparticle size, shape, surface coating and a host of other factors contribute to these interactions, and that the particles themselves are evolving or ageing leads to further complications in terms of elucidating mechanisms of interaction and modes of action for silver nanoparticles, in contrast to dissolved silver species. This review aims to provide a critical assessment of the current understanding of silver nanoparticle toxicity, as well as to provide a set of pointers and guidelines for experimental design of future studies to assess the environmental and biological impacts of silver nanoparticles. In particular; in future we require a detailed description of the nanoparticles; their synthesis route and stabilisation mechanisms; their coating; and evolution and ageing under the exposure conditions of the assay. This would allow for comparison of data from different particles; different environmental or biological systems; and structure-activity or structure-property relationships to emerge as the basis for predictive toxicology. On the basis of currently available data; such comparisons or predictions are difficult; as the characterisation and time-resolved data is not available; and a full understanding of silver nanoparticle dissolution and ageing under different conditions is observed. Clear concerns are emerging regarding the overuse of nanosilver and the potential for bacterial resistance to develop. A significant conclusion includes the need for a risk—benefit analysis for all applications and eventually restrictions of the uses where a clear benefit cannot be demonstrated.
Perna canaliculus Lipid Complex PCSO-524™ Demonstrated Pain Relief for Osteoarthritis Patients Benchmarked against Fish Oil, a Randomized Trial, without Placebo Control
Authors: Zawadzki Marek , Janosch Claudia , Szechinski Jacek
Published: June 2013

Osteoarthritis (OA) typically generates pain, reduced mobility and reduced quality of life. Most conventional treatments for osteoarthritis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and simple analgesics, have side effects. PCSO-524™, a non polar lipid extract from the New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has been shown to reduce inflammation in both animal studies and patient trials. This OA trial examined pain relief changes in relation to quality of life and safety of use for OA patients who took PCSO-524™ compared with patients who took fish oil (containing an industry standard EPA-18% and DHA-12% blend). PCSO-524™ patients showed a statistically significant improvement compared with patients who took fish oil. There was an 89% decrease in their pain symptoms and 91% reported an improved quality of life. Patients treated with fish oil showed significantly less improvement and a greater level of physical discomfort during the study. These results suggest that PCSO-524™ might offer a potential alternative complementary therapy with no side effects for OA patients.
New Invertebrate Vectors for PST, Spirolides and Okadaic Acid in the North Atlantic
Authors: Silva Marisa , Barreiro Aldo , Rodriguez Paula , Otero Paz , Azevedo Joana , Alfonso Amparo , Botana Luis , Vasconcelos Vitor
Published: June 2013

The prevalence of poisoning events due to harmful algal blooms (HABs) has declined during the last two decades through monitoring programs and legislation, implemented mainly for bivalves. However, new toxin vectors and emergent toxins pose a challenge to public health. Several locations on the Portuguese coast were surveyed between 2009 and 2010 for three distinct biotoxin groups [saxitoxin (PST), spirolide (SPX) and okadaic acid (OA)], in 14 benthic species of mollusks and echinoderms. Our main goals were to detect new vectors and unravel the seasonal and geographical patterns of these toxins. PSTs were analyzed by the Lawrence method, SPXs by LC-MS/MS, and OA by LC-MS/MS and UPLC-MS/MS. We report 16 new vectors for these toxins in the North Atlantic. There were differences in toxin contents among species, but no significant geographical or seasonal patterns were found. Our results suggest that legislation should be adjusted to extend the monitoring of marine toxins to a wider range of species besides edible bivalves.
Fabrication of Nanopillar Micropatterns by Hybrid Mask Lithography for Surface-Directed Liquid Flow
Authors: Sakuma Shinya , Sugita Masakuni , Arai Fumihito
Published: June 2013

This paper presents a novel method for fabricating nanopillar micropatterns for surface-directed liquid flows. It employs hybrid mask lithography, which uses a mask consisting of a combination of a photoresist and nanoparticles in the photolithography process. The nanopillar density is controlled by varying the weight ratio of nanoparticles in the composite mask. Hybrid mask lithography was used to fabricate a surface-directed liquid flow. The effect of the surface-directed liquid flow, which was formed by the air-liquid interface due to nanopillar micropatterns, was evaluated, and the results show that the oscillation of microparticles, when the micro-tool was actuated, was dramatically reduced by using a surface-directed liquid flow. Moreover, the target particle was manipulated individually without non-oscillating ambient particles.
An Optical Fiber Bundle Sensor for Tip Clearance and Tip Timing Measurements in a Turbine Rig
Authors: García Iker , Beloki Josu , Zubia Joseba , Aldabaldetreku Gotzon , Illarramendi María , Jiménez Felipe
Published: June 2013

When it comes to measuring blade-tip clearance or blade-tip timing in turbines, reflective intensity-modulated optical fiber sensors overcome several traditional limitations of capacitive, inductive or discharging probe sensors. This paper presents the signals and results corresponding to the third stage of a multistage turbine rig, obtained from a transonic wind-tunnel test. The probe is based on a trifurcated bundle of optical fibers that is mounted on the turbine casing. To eliminate the influence of light source intensity variations and blade surface reflectivity, the sensing principle is based on the quotient of the voltages obtained from the two receiving bundle legs. A discrepancy lower than 3% with respect to a commercial sensor was observed in tip clearance measurements. Regarding tip timing measurements, the travel wave spectrum was obtained, which provides the average vibration amplitude for all blades at a particular nodal diameter. With this approach, both blade-tip timing and tip clearance measurements can be carried out simultaneously. The results obtained on the test turbine rig demonstrate the suitability and reliability of the type of sensor used, and suggest the possibility of performing these measurements in real turbines under real working conditions.
Should Rehabilitation Specialists Use External Focus Instructions When Motor Learning Is Fostered? A Systematic Review
Authors: Kakebeeke Tanja , Knols Ruud , De Bruin Eling
Published: June 2013

According to the Constrained Action Hypothesis, motor learning is believed to be more efficient when an external focus (EF) of motor control is given to the performer instead of an internal focus (IF) of motor control. This systematic review investigated whether findings of studies focusing on the Constrained Action Hypothesis may be transferred to rehabilitation settings by assessing the methodological quality and risk of bias (ROB) of available randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of the 18 selected reports representing 20 RCTs, the methodological quality was rather low, and the majority of the reports appeared to have a high ROB. The 18 reports included 68 patients tested in a rehabilitation setting and 725 healthy participants. The time scale of the motor learning processes presented in the selected articles was heterogenic. The results of this systematic review indicate that the assumption that an external focus of control is to be preferred during motor learning processes is not sufficiently substantiated. The level of available evidence is not large enough to warrant transfer to patient populations (including children and the elderly) and raises doubts about research with healthy individuals. This implies that based on the methodology used so far, there seems to be insufficient evidence for the superiority of an external focus of control, neither in healthy individuals nor in clinical populations. The relationship between EF instructions and motor learning research and its effect in both patient rehabilitation settings and healthy populations requires further exploration. Future adequately powered studies with low ROB and with rehabilitation populations that are followed over extended time periods should, therefore, be performed to substantiate or refute the assumption of the superiority of an EF in motor learning.
Ion Chromatographic Analyses of Sea Waters, Brines and Related Samples
Authors: Gros Nataša
Published: June 2013

This review focuses on the ion chromatographic methods for the analyses of natural waters with high ionic strength. At the beginning a natural diversity in ionic composition of waters is highlighted and terminology clarified. In continuation a brief overview of other review articles of potential interest is given. A review of ion chromatographic methods is organized in four sections. The first section comprises articles focused on the determination of ionic composition of water samples as completely as possible. The sections—Selected Anions, Selected Cations and Metals—follow. The most essential experimental conditions used in different methods are summarized in tables for a rapid comparison. Techniques encountered in the reviewed articles comprise: direct determinations of ions in untreated samples with ion- or ion-exclusion chromatography, or electrostatic ion chromatography; matrix elimination with column-switching; pre-concentration with a chelation ion chromatography and purge-and-trap pre-concentration. Different detection methods were used: non-suppressed conductometric or suppressed conductometric, direct spectrometric or spectrometric after a post-column derivetization, and inductively coupled plasma in combination with optical emission or mass spectrometry.