bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between urine osmolality and specific gravity in dogs and the effect of commonly measured urine solutes on that association
Authors: Ayoub Jennifer A. , Beaufrere Hugues , Acierno Mark J.
Published: November 2013

Objective—To determine the association between urine osmolality and specific gravity (USG) in dogs and to evaluate the effect of commonly measured urine solutes on that association.

Animals—60 dogs evaluated by an internal medicine service.

Procedures—From each dog, urine was obtained by cystocentesis and USG was determined with a refractometer. The sample was divided, and one aliquot was sent to a diagnostic laboratory for urinalysis and the other was frozen at −80°C until osmolality was determined. Urine samples were thawed and osmolality was measured in duplicate with a freezing-point depression osmometer. The correlation between mean urine osmolality and USG was determined; the effect of pH, proteinuria, glucosuria, ketonuria, bilirubinuria, and hemoglobinuria on this relationship was investigated with multiple regression analysis.

Results—The Pearson correlation coefficient between urine osmolality and USG was 0.87. The final multivariable regression model for urine osmolality included USG and the presence of ketones; ketonuria had a small negative association with urine osmolality.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated a strong linear correlation between osmolality and USG in urine samples obtained from dogs with various pathological conditions, and ketonuria had a small negative effect on that correlation.
Crystal, molecular and electron structure of (2R,3R,4aS,5S,7R,10aS,10bS)-5-ethyl- 2,3-dimethoxy-2,3,7-trimethyl-decahydro-2H- [1,4]dioxino[2,3-g]indolizin-7-ium iodide hydrate
Authors: Viktor Vrábel , Július Sivý , Peter Šafař
Published: November 2013

The title compound, C17H32NO4I・H2O, is chiral molecule with seven stereogenic centres. The absolute configuration was assigned from the synthesis and confirmed by the structure determination. The central six-membered ring of the indolizine moiety and 1,4-dioxane ring adopt a chair conformation, with two atoms displaced by -0.530(3), 0.712(3) and -0.631(2), 0.602(2) Å, respectively, from the plane of the other four atoms. The conformation of the pyrrolidine ring is close to that of a envelope, with the flap atom displaced by -0.600(3) A from the plane through the remaining four atoms. The electron structure was calculated by the semiempirical quantum chemistry method PM3. The crystal structure of compound is stabilized by O-H・・・I and O-H・・・O hydrogen bonds.
Electrochemical study of the stability of ferrates(VI) in low temperature molten hydroxide
Authors: Kerekeš Kamil , Švaňová Katarína , Híveš Ján , Gál Miroslav
Published: November 2013

During last decades interest in ferrates(VI) has increased significantly. On one hand they serve as strong, non-toxic oxidants without harmful by-products and, on the other hand, as an efficient coagulant in both drinking and waste water treatment technology. In this work we focused on the electrochemical preparation of ferrate (VI) salts in eutectic low temperature molten sodium hydroxide - water mixture using pure iron anodes. Some information on the stability and kinetics of decomposition of sodium ferrate(VI) prepared by molten-system electrolysis is discussed. An assumption that electrochemically prepared ferrate(VI) in molten hydroxide media are stable enough to be used especially in the field of waste water treatment was confirmed by our observation.
Health-promoting substances contained in cereals (review)
Authors: Rakická Milada , Šturdík Ernest , Marko Andrea
Published: November 2013

In current time we can see worldwide rise in number of people suffering from civilization diseases, such as health threatening cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes mellitus, cancer and many others. Cereal products which provide income of important nutritional substance for human health belong among groceries with proven medical effect. Among significant components of cereals with proven effect in prevention of civilization diseases belongs roughage, β-glucans, phytochemicals. Important role also play vitamins and minerals, which are present in cereals in minor values. Article summarizes presence of medically important substances in cereals.
Differential preservation of children’s bones and teeth recovered from early medieval cemeteries: possible influences for the forensic recovery of non-adult skeletal remains
Authors: Manifold Bernadette M.
Published: November 2013

The skeletal preservation of 421 non-adult skeletons from four early medieval sites in England, Scotland and Wales were compared to assess whether geographical location and geology have an impact on overall bone preservation of children’s remains in the burial environment. Skeletons were examined from the cemeteries of Auldhame in Scotland, Edix Hill and Great Chesterford in England and Llandough in Wales. The bone preservation was examined using three preservational indices: Anatomical preservation index (API), Qualitative preservation index (QBI) and the bone representation index (BRI). A similar pattern existed across all the sites with regard to what bones are preserved, bones with relatively high density, such as the temporal bone of the skull, the long bones of the upper and lower limbs tend to be abundant in the samples, with the more small and fragile bones, such as the facial bones tending to be less well represented either as a result of low bone density or due to loss at excavation. The study of the dental elements also revealed a pattern with regard to what is preserved, with high numbers of molars and incisors found.

This may be related to both the size and number of roots; but also the position in the mouth which may offer protection against loss. A difference in preservation was observed between the sites and the classes of preservation, particularly local differences between the sites of Edix Hill and Great Chesterford. From this study it remains unclear as to the extent the role of geology has on the non-adult skeleton, but the results of this study show that age is not the dominating factor in bone preservation as previously thought.
The effects of model upper limb position on observer P300 event-related potential
Authors: Nagai Yukiko , Sakuma Haruo
Published: November 2013

Study aim: This study reports on the characteristics of learners’ information-gathering processes when receiving visual motor information by examining the influence of differences in model upper limb placement on observer attention.

Materials and Methods: The experiment, which was conducted with seven subjects, consisted of a visual oddball task in which subjects were instructed to push a button corresponding to the target image when it was presented on a screen. Two images were used in the task: a “front” image in which the upper limbs were placed in front of the trunk, and an “outside” image in which the upper limbs were placed outside the trunk. The variables measured were brainwaves during task performance, button push reaction time, and questionnaire responses. Brainwaves were recorded at the Fz, Cz, and Pz electrode sites and event-related potentials at the time of target image presentation were calculated. Grand mean waveforms and mean potentials were also compared for the P300.

Results: Comparisons of P300 amplification grand mean waveforms and mean potentials revealed that amplification was greater in the front condition than in the outside condition.

Conclusion: This finding indicates that differences in model upper limb placement greatly affect observer attention.
The Current Economic Crisis of the EU: Genesis, Analysis and Solutions
Authors: Troitiño David Ramiro
Published: November 2013

The article approaches the current economic crisis from an historical perspective, analyzing the building of the monetary integration and the common currency. The process is explained through pointing out its effects on the European integration and outlining the positive and negative consequences of the introduction of a common currency in the European Union. The investigation continues with a general outlook of the current situation of the countries which were more affected by the current crisis-Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Italy and Cyprus. What all these countries have in common is the necessity of extra funding in a context of austerity, plus some national particularities. The author proposes an expansion in the public spending as the only reliable way to stimulate European economies in the crisis. As the introduction of the euro meant the end of the monetary independence for the Member States, an innovative solution is proposed-the creation of an Economic Government in the union in order to transfer funds from wealthier states to the countries in trouble. It is presented as a necessity for the states in crisis, a necessity for the wealthier states, and a must for the European Union.
Russia between China and the European Union: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Värk Juhan
Published: November 2013

For a long time Russia has regarded the European Union and China as its main economic and trade partners, giving preference to the EU. A sudden change occurred in October 2008, when as a response to the EU’s sharp criticism of the Kremlin over the Georgian-Russian military conflict, Russia decided to re-orient its foreign economic and trade policy from the EU to China and partially also to India. At the same time Russian-Chinese military and energy cooperation started to grow. Russia sold China oil and gas at low price and supplied it with advanced weaponry, which has increased China’s aggression toward its neighbours. Russia also started to politically and militarily support China’s activities in Syria and Iran, which, in turn, worsened Russia’s relations with several EU Member States, including Germany, France and Italy, with whom Russia was planning to cooperate in the developing of the Nord Stream gas pipeline project. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin still declares a great continuing friendship and solidarity with China and is hoping to see the worsening of China’s conflict with the US, which, Putin claims, could avert China’s direct conflict with Russia. Several leading Russian military and political experts describe this hope as unrealistic. At the same time, the volume of EU-Russian mutual trade was almost 395 billion US dollars in 2011, which exceeds in volume the Chinese-Russian trade volume by more than four times. It shows that Russia’s trade reset from the EU to China has been negligible. Also, it is bad news for Russia and China that Iran today stifles cooperation with Georgia and Chinese separatist Uyghurs, and Syrian Bashar al-Assad’s regime is developing cooperation with al Qaeda, and does not explain Russia’s and China’s current similar foreign policy toward Iran and Syria.
Theoretical Considerations about the Possible Impact of Globalisation on Europe’s Economic Development
Authors: Daugėlienė Rasa
Published: November 2013

Scientific works (starting from 1873) of famous economists and political philosophers based on theoretical/philosophical considerations about the preconditions of changes on world economy of scope stipulate the inclusive analysis of factors which possibly influence the challenges of society and economy in the 21st century. It is very modern to claim that manifestation of globalisation is the origin of all changes. The European Commission states that about one-fifth of the increase in the economies of EU countries over the past 50 years depends on integration of the world economy, that is, globalisation. Taking this into account, the article presents theoretical considerations about the possible impact of globalisation on Europe’s economic development. Three scientific problems are raised: Does globalisation affect economic growth and how could this process be managed? Which are the derivatives of globalisation that influence positive changes in a country’s economy? Is it possible to eliminate or diminish the effect of the more negative aspects of globalisation? Among the research methods used in the article are theoretical comparative analysis of the scientific works, and analysis of legal documents as well as strategies and practical papers in this field. The article also presents three tasks: to systematise arguments presented in existing scientific works (theories) as well as in EU initiatives considering the phenomenon of globalisation, to highlight the tendencies in Europe’s economic development that are associated with globalisation, and to present recommendations for managing the influence of globalisation to the development of EU’s economy.

The article presents systematised arguments of published scientific works (theories) as well as EU initiatives considering the phenomenon of globalisation. The impact, positive as well as negative, of globalisation on the development of economy is highlighted and the criteria for the manifestation of globalisation is systematised. This instrument could be used to assess the impact of globalisation on economic development
Financial and Banking Regulation and Supervision within the EU
Authors: Lehleiter Constanze
Published: November 2013

The European Union (EU) has faced not only the international financial crisis, but also the European banking and the sovereign debt crisis. A lack of efficient regulations and supervision were a serious cause of recent developments. As a reaction, the EU finally implemented a framework covering both micro- and macro-prudential policies. Measures such as the new capital requirements, the deposit guarantee schemes, the green paper on shadow banking and, most importantly, the new approach for a macro-prudential supervision are headed towards crisis prevention. However, the challenge is to define regulations enhancing financial stability, which, at the same time, do not prevent institutions from generating reasonable financial risks and do not reduce growth. In that regard, the presented measures still have deficits which have to be faced. Furthermore, coordination between various authorities and the European Commission remains another challenge.
The Committee of the Regions: A Springboard for the Citizens
Authors: Jiménez Javier Mendoza
Published: November 2013

This study focuses on the relation between the Committee of the Regions (CoR), an advisory institution of the European Union defined as the political assembly of holders of a regional or local electoral mandate serving the cause of European integration, and the democratic deficit, understood as the effective ways of citizens’ participation in the institutional decision making. The work hypothesis is that the CoR, in spite of being mostly unknown to citizens, could be an effective tool for tackling the democratic deficit. Through qualitative interviews and surveys at different levels, the article analyzes the current situation and the potential opportunities of the CoR in its relation with citizens.
The EU in the Eyes of Ukrainian General Public: Potential for EU Public Diplomacy?
Authors: Chaban Natalia , Vernygora Vlad
Published: November 2013

This paper focuses on the public diplomacy (PD) practices of the EU-a supranational regional organisation confronted with two distinct challenges. First, the EU aims to reform its external action in order to become a global power and leader in the changing multipolar world. Second, it purports to fight the ongoing economic crisis that not only weakens the actual global capabilities of the EU, but damages its international image and reputation as a power and a leader. The paper assumes the potential of EU PD tools in meeting these challenges and tests this assumption in one case study of international public opinion on the EU in its immediate neighbourhood (Ukraine). Importantly, the study confronts an additional challenge: EU PD is described in the relevant literature to be a disjointed, under-resourced and overlooked policy area.
On Some Strategies for Computer Simulation of Thewave Propagation Using Finite Differences II. Multi–Dimensional FDTD Method
Authors: Šumichrast Ľubomír
Published: November 2013

Some strategies used in the computer simulation of wave phenomena by means of finite differences in time-domain (FDTD) method are reviewed and discussed here. It is shown that the wave equation in its discretised form possesses different properties in comparison with the true differential formulation. In this part the issues of stability and numerical dispersion for two- and three-dimensional case of wave propagation in homogeneous space are thoroughly investigated.
The Evaluation of the Practical Adhesion Strength of Biocompatible Thin Films by Fuzzy Logic Expert System and International Standards
Authors: Socha Vladimír , Kutílek Patrik , Vitečková Slávka
Published: November 2013

This work focuses on describing an evaluation method used in nano- and micro-thin films based on fuzzy logic expert systems. The aim is the elimination of comparison complications with mechanical properties of tin films, practical adhesion being one of the most important characteristic of tin films. The basic method for evaluating the practical adhesion strength is scratch test method, while the issue is that research teams use measurement methods based on the non-uniform measurement conditions of adhesion of biocompatible thin films. The authors tested new evaluation method and procedure based on international standards and fuzzy rule based expert system in order to eliminate the problem of comparison of practical adhesion of the films. The article concentrates on testing and using the fuzzy logic expert system designed based on international standards for evaluating adhesion of thin films in nano and micro dimensions. The materials used for tests of the fuzzy expert system were DLC biocompatible layers and substrate a titanium alloy Ti6Al4V.
Mechanical Behavior and Thermal Stability of EVA Encapsulant Material Used in Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Polanský Radek , Pinkerová Martina , Bartůňková Monika , Prosr Pavel
Published: November 2013

The mechanical behavior and the thermal stability of an encapsulant based on ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) were studied. The EVA properties were verified at temperatures ranging from −70 °C to 500 °C. Thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis were used in this study. It has been shown that the encapsulant has a good weight stability; however, the encapsulant passes through both a glass transition and a melting phase in the range of operating temperatures. The kinetic parameters of crosslinking were also analyzed. It is possible to achieve 65% crosslinking at a temperature of 150 °C and a time of 5 minutes. The activation energy of crosslinking is 95.6 kJ/mol.
Seasonality Of The Basic Physical And Chemical Characteristics Of Water Flowing Through The Cascades Of Small Reservoirs In Urban And Suburban Areas
Authors: Bartnik Adam , Moniewski Piotr , Tomalski Przemysław
Published: November 2013

The paper showed the changes of characteristics of river water flowing through the cascades of reservoirs. One of the cascades is located in a highly urbanized area of Lodz. The second is in a suburban area on the northern outskirts of Lodz agglomeration. However, it still remains under the influence of storm water discharged from the highway. Every 2 weeks, in 4 monitoring points (on the input and on the output of each cascade), the measurements of basic physical and chemical water parameters were made (using data registered in cross-sections obtained between 2006 and 2012). The analysed characteristics can be divided into three groups: 1. No changes in the seasonal fluctuations of analysed characteristics before and after the cascade of reservoirs and no differences between urban and suburban areas in the influence of the cascades on river water; 2. Significant changes in the seasonal fluctuations of analysed characteristics before and after the cascade of reservoirs and no differences between urban and suburban areas in the influence of the cascades on river water; 3. Significant changes in the seasonal fluctuations of analysed characteristics before and after the cascade of reservoirs and also significant differences between urban and suburban areas in the influence of the cascades on river water. The first group includes the temperature and pH of the water, the second group water conductivity and the third group water turbidity and dissolved oxygen in water.
Japanese Fashion Designers
Authors: English Bonnie
Published: November 2013

Over the past 40 years, Japanese designers have led the way in aligning fashion with art and ideology, as well as addressing identity and social politics through dress. They have demonstrated that both creative and commercial enterprise is possible in today's international fashion industry, and have refused to compromise their ideals, remaining autonomous and independent in their design, business affairs and distribution methods. The inspirational Miyake, Yamamoto and Kawakubo have gained worldwide respect and admiration and have influenced a generation of designers and artists alike.

Based on twelve years of research, this book provides a richly detailed and uniquely comprehensive view of the work of these three key designers. It outlines their major contributions and the subsequent impact that their work has had upon the next generation of fashion and textile designers around the world.

Designers discussed include: Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, Rei Kawakubo, Naoki Takizawa, Dai Fujiwara, Junya Watanabe, Tao Kurihara, Jun Takahashi, Yoshiki Hishinuma, Junichi Arai, Reiko Sudo & the Nuno Corporation, Makiko Minagawa, Hiroshi Matsushita, Martin Margiela, Ann Demeulemeester, Dries Van Noten, Walter Beirendonck, Dirk Bikkembergs, Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan and Helmut Lang.
Fashion and Celebrity Culture
Authors: Gibson Pamela Church
Published: November 2013

The interrelationship between fashion and celebrity is now a salient and pervasive feature of the media world. This accessible text presents the first in-depth study of the phenomenon, assessing the degree to which celebrity culture has reshaped the fashion system.

Fashion and Celebrity Culture critically examines the history of this relationship from its growth in the nineteenth century to its mutation during the twentieth century to the dramatic changes that have befallen it in the last two decades. It addresses the fashion-celebrity nexus as it plays itself out across mainstream cinema, television and music and in the celebrity status of a range of designers, models and artists. It explores the strategies that have enabled visual culture to recast itself in the new climate of celebrity obsession, popular culture and the art world to respond adaptively to its insistent pressures.

With its engaging analysis and case studies from Lillian Gish to Louis Vuitton to Lady Gaga, Fashion and Celebrity Culture is of major interest to students of fashion, media studies, film, television studies and popular culture, and anyone with an interest in this global phenomenon.
Lifestyle and normal hearing function in Italy and Central Asia
Authors: Vuckovic Dragana , Biino Ginevra , Panu Francesco , Pirastu Mario , Gasparini Paolo , Girotto Giorgia
Published: November 2013

Background:

Sound perception has a fundamental role of the auditory system and its absence causes hearing loss. It is well known that normal hearing function as well as the non-Mendelian forms of hearing impairment (i.e. age-related and noise-induced hearing loss) are considered to be due to both genetic and lifestyle/environmental factors. To date, few factors have been hypothesized as being related to normal hearing function and to age-related and noise-induced hearing loss.

Method:

We describe a broad study carried out on 4401 subjects from isolated populations (located from Italy to Central Asia) aimed at the identification of lifestyle/environmental factors (focused mainly on diet) that are potentially associated with normal hearing function (i.e. quantitative trait).

Results:

Our results show, for the first time, that among eight analysed variables (smoking, chocolate, coffee, tea, wine, beer, dairy products, spirits), only coffee consumption and coffee intake showed a significant association with better hearing function in four out of the 11 countries investigated. In particular, coffee consumption was associated over an audiometric profile from low (250, 500, 1000 Hz) to high (4000, 8000 Hz) frequencies: p-value = 0.006 in southern Italy, p-value = 0.017 in Azerbaijan, p-value = 0.016 in Tajikistan at low frequencies and p-value = 0.038 in Sardinia at high frequencies. With regard to intake, we detected an association only at high frequencies (2 cups/day, p-value = 0.01; 3 cups/day, p-value = 0.003).

Conclusion:

A possible explanation might be the antioxidant content of coffee, the concentration of which is higher than red wine or herbal teas. A possible additional reason could be a specific protective effect of active coffee compounds such as trigonelline. The findings provide a better knowledge of environment/lifestyle factors related to the hearing system and might help in defining new preventive strategies for hearing loss.
Auditory cortical processing in noise in younger and older adults
Authors: McCullagh Jennifer , Shinn Jennifer B.
Published: November 2013

Objective:

A common clinical complaint among older adults is difficulty hearing in noise, even in those with normal or near-normal peripheral hearing sensitivity. Researchers have demonstrated behavioral hearing in noise deficits in older adults, but to date limited evidence, particularly objective, exists elucidating the effects of age on auditory cortical processing in noise. The purpose of this investigation was to explore age related differences in auditory cortical processing at multiple signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs).

Study design:

Twenty normal-hearing young adults and 15 normal-hearing older adults participated in the study. Late auditory evoked potential (N1 and P2) latencies and amplitudes were measured in quiet and at three signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) (+ 20, + 10, and 0 SNR). Repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVA) were utilized to determine if statistically significant differences existed.

Results:

Significant group by listening condition interactions existed for N1 and P2 amplitudes. P2 latencies were significantly longer for the older adult group compared to the younger adult group. In addition, N1 and P2 amplitudes were significantly smaller for the younger adult group compared to the older adult group.

Conclusion:

Results suggest a possibly greater reduction in the synchronous neuronal response from quiet to noisy conditions in older adults than in younger adults.
Melatonin in children undergoing auditory brainstem response and auditory steady state response tests
Authors: Busk Linnebjerg Linda , Wetke Randi
Published: November 2013

Objective:

Testing children with ABR/ASSR demands that the child is asleep to obtain valid results. This is a difficult task, and in some cases the uncooperative child is tested under general anaesthesia. By giving a low dose of melatonin – an endogenous hormone that induces natural sleep – the success rate of ABR/ASSR could be evaluated and compared with the results from a control group.

Method:

One hundred and twenty-seven children with a mean age of 2.3 years suspected of hearing loss and undergoing ABR/ASSR were included in the study. Ninety-nine children assessed by the parents as having difficulties in obtaining spontaneous sleep were given melatonin 3–6 mg depending on weight. A group of 80 children undergoing ABR/ASSR the previous year was used as a control group.

Results:

The test group had an overall success rate of 71.7% (n = 96) and the control group had a success rate of 51.3% (n = 41). When looking at the test group according to age, the success rate was significantly higher than the control group in all age groups and highest in children above four years of age. The low dosage of melatonin seemed sufficient to test the patients.
Haemodynamic Response After induction of Anaesthesia in Patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery of Poor Left ventricular Function. A comparison between Thiopental / fentanyl and Etomidate / fentanyl
Authors: Rahman Md. Hamidur , Mondal Bhabesh Chandra , Ahmed Niaz , Islam Md. Sirajul , Faruquee ZA
Published: November 2013

Objective: To compare the haemodynamic effect of thiopental/fentanyl with etomidate/fentanyl during anaesthetic induction in patients with coronary artery disease with poor left ventricular function (ejection fraction < 45%). Design: A retrospective randomized trial. Setting: Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute. Participants: Twenty patients with coronary artery disease of poor left ventricular function (ejection fraction<45%) scheduled for elective coronary artery bypass surgery. Interventions: Patients were allocated randomly to receive either thiopental/fentanyl or etomidate/fentanyl for induction. Measurement & Main Results: Haemodynamic response (heart rate, mean arterial pressure) were recorded at 1 minute interval starting from induction till five minutes after intubations. The reduction of mean arterial pressure was greater in patients who received thiopental/fentanyl induction (maximal decrease 32%) in comparison to etomidate/fentanyl induction (maximal decrease12%) [P<0.05 which is statistically significant]. The changes of heart rate were insignificant between the groups (reduction of heart rate 8% versus 7%). Conclusion: Etomidate/ fentanyl induction reduces less blood pressure in comparison to thiopental/fentanyl induction in patients of poor left ventricular function but changes of heart rate were insignificant in between the groups. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 23-26 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17123
Focused Diagnostic Approach to A Patient with Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO): A Review
Authors: Ahmed Jamal Uddin , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Hossain Md. Delwar , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Musa AKM , Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: November 2013

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) is a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. Disorders presenting as fever of unknown origin are varied and extensive. Clinicians often find themselves hopeless with a patient with FUO and try to catch a straw by doing every conceivable test and run therapeutic trials in order to diagnose all of the myriad causes of FUO that are in fact part of the differential diagnosis of FUO in general. The main difficulty with diagnostic testing in patients with FUO is that it is unfocused. All disorders have a specific pattern of organ involvement. In a patient with FUO, there are almost always one or more clues from the history, physical examination, or nonspecific laboratory tests that suggest a particular diagnosis or at least limit diagnostic possibilities. It is worthy to remember that fever of unknown origin is more often caused by an atypical presentation of a common entity than by a rare disorder. Thus a focused diagnostic approach can minimize the miseries of both the clinician & the patient. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 27-34 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17124
Cardiotoxicity of Non Cardiovascular Drugs: A Mechanistic Point of View
Authors: Rashid Tasnuva , Hasan Irtiza
Published: November 2013

Cardiotoxicity has evolved as an essential component of various adverse drug reactions and an important aspect in drug development and withdrawal. A triphasic interaction of the drug, its mechanism of action on the heart and various factors influencing toxicity is the basis of various cardiotoxicities. A comprehensive knowledge of the various mechanisms of cardiotoxicities and classes of drug causing it would promote appropriate drug selection, simultaneous use of cardioprotective drugs and work as a guideline for the development of new drugs and targeted therapies. A check in the drug causes of cardiotoxicities would definitely play a vital role in eliminating a significant fraction of the cardiovascular diseases and delay the rate and magnitude of the development of the impending cardiovascular disease epidemic. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 35-43 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17125
Successful Pregnancy Outcome in a Patient with Antiphospholipid Syndrome : A Case Report
Authors: Haque Hasna Fahmima , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Amin Mohammad Gaffar , Zaman Shahana , Dewan Pratik , Afroz F , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Yasmin Roksana , Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: November 2013

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) manifests clinically as recurrent venous or arterial thrombosis and/or fetal loss. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion during evaluation of women with recurrent pregnancy loss and vascular thrombosis. Low dose aspirin combined with heparin can reduce morbidity and improve the pregnancy outcome. Here we report a case of a 22 year old lady having APS who presented with arthritis, recurrent miscarriages and venous thrombosis. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 44-46 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17126
Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor : A Case Report
Authors: Maitra Tapash Kumar , Roy Sharmistha , Mondal Samiron Kumar , -Al-Alam Noor
Published: November 2013

Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) are a type of neoplasm arising from the embryological mesoderm of GastroIntestinal Tract. But they can also arise from extra intestinal sites. The incidence1 of site of origin of GIST is - Oesophagus 5% Stomach 50% Small intestine 25% Colon & rectum 10%, Extr-intestinal (Mesenchyme, GB,Pancreas) 10%.We present here a case of GIST attaining enormous size, having all classical histological features of GIST arising from the mesentery which is a relatively rare site. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 47-49 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17127
Behcets Disease Presenting as Fever of Unknown Origin : A Case Report
Authors: Samad Tabassum , Ahmed Jamal Uddin , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Musa AKM , Uddin Khwaja Nazim , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Haque Hasna Fahmima
Published: November 2013

Behcets disease (BD) is an inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers and numerous systemic manifestations. The underlying cause of Behcets disease is unknown. As with other autoimmune diseases, the disorder may represent aberrant immune activity triggered by exposure to an antigen, perhaps infectious, in patient with a genetic predisposition to develop the disease. Here we are reporting a case of Behcets disease in a 50 year old gentleman who presented with fever, recurrent oral ulcers and genital ulcer. Diagnostic workup excluded other possible diseases. Pathergy test was positive. Prednisolone was started along with other supportive therapy and patient subsequently improved. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 50-53 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17128
Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of Pancreas: A Case Report
Authors: Rashid Md. Mamunur , Rabbi Hashim , Islam Azharul , Hussain Muhd. Mustaque , Kabir Md. Mohsin , Ahmed AHM Tanvir , Akhtar KM , Rahman Anisur , Ali Mohammad
Published: November 2013

Solid pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas is a rare tumor almost exclusively affecting the young female and accounts for <1% of all pancreatic tumors. Most hypothesis suggests that the tumor arises from embryonic pleuripotent stem cells. Although mostly benign in nature, the tumor may show malignant potentials and the patient may present with hepatic, omental or other meatstasis. High index of suspicion is the key for early dianosis. Good quality imaging (USG and CT scan) & FNAC are necessary for proper evaluation of the lesion. Peroperative frozen section biopsy may be necessary to ascertain its malignant potential. Radical resection is the best modality of treatment for achieving curative results and a better long-term survival. We are reporting our experience of treating a case of solid pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas in BIRDEM Hospital. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 54-58 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17129
Medical quitz:SBA
Authors: Ahmed Jamal Uddin
Published: November 2013

Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 60 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17131
BIRDEM News Vol.3(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2013

Birdem Med J 2013; 3(1): 62 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i1.17133
Solving Matrix Equations on Multi-Core and Many-Core Architectures
Authors: Benner Peter , Ezzatti Pablo , Mena Hermann , Quintana-Ortí Enrique , Remón Alfredo
Published: November 2013

We address the numerical solution of Lyapunov, algebraic and differential Riccati equations, via the matrix sign function, on platforms equipped with general-purpose multicore processors and, optionally, one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). In particular, we review the solvers for these equations, as well as the underlying methods, analyze their concurrency and scalability and provide details on their parallel implementation. Our experimental results show that this class of hardware provides sufficient computational power to tackle large-scale problems, which only a few years ago would have required a cluster of computers.
Hour-Ahead Wind Speed and Power Forecasting Using Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Hong Ying-Yi , Yu Ti-Hsuan , Liu Ching-Yun
Published: November 2013

Operation of wind power generation in a large farm is quite challenging in a smart grid owing to uncertain weather conditions. Consequently, operators must accurately forecast wind speed/power in the dispatch center to carry out unit commitment, real power scheduling and economic dispatch. This work presents a novel method based on the integration of empirical mode decomposition (EMD) with artificial neural networks (ANN) to forecast the short-term (1 h ahead) wind speed/power. First, significant parameters for training the ANN are identified using the correlation coefficients. These significant parameters serve as inputs of the ANN. Owing to the volatile and intermittent wind speed/power, the historical time series of wind speed/power is decomposed into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and a residual function through EMD. Each IMF becomes less volatile and therefore increases the accuracy of the neural network. The final forecasting results are achieved by aggregating all individual forecasting results from all IMFs and their corresponding residual functions. Real data related to the wind speed and wind power measured at a wind-turbine generator in Taiwan are used for simulation. The wind speed forecasting and wind power forecasting for the four seasons are studied. Comparative studies between the proposed method and traditional methods (i.e., artificial neural network without EMD, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), and persistence method) are also introduced.
Escherichia coli in Europe: An Overview
Authors: Allocati Nerino , Masulli Michele , Alexeyev Mikhail , Di Ilio Carmine
Published: November 2013

Escherichia coli remains one of the most frequent causes of several common bacterial infections in humans and animals. E. coli is the prominent cause of enteritis, urinary tract infection, septicaemia and other clinical infections, such as neonatal meningitis. E. coli is also prominently associated with diarrhoea in pet and farm animals. The therapeutic treatment of E. coli infections is threatened by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant E. coli strains is increasing worldwide principally due to the spread of mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids. The rise of multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli also occurs in Europe. Therefore, the spread of resistance in E. coli is an increasing public health concern in European countries. This paper summarizes the current status of E. coli strains clinically relevant in European countries. Furthermore, therapeutic interventions and strategies to prevent and control infections are presented and discussed. The article also provides an overview of the current knowledge concerning promising alternative therapies against E. coli diseases.
Blocking Autophagic Flux Enhances Matrine-Induced Apoptosis in Human Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Wang Li , Gao Chun , Yao Shukun , Xie Bushan
Published: November 2013

Autophagy, a self-defense mechanism, has been found to be associated with drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our study was designed to investigate the role and related mechanisms of autophagy in matrine-induced apoptosis in hepatoma cells of HepG2 and Bel7402. Cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry analysis (Annexin V–FITC/PI double-staining assay), the activity and activating cleavages of caspase-3, -8, and -9. MTT assay and colony forming assay were used to assess the effect of matrine on growth and proliferation of HCC cells. Autophagic flux in HCC cells was analyzed using the expression of LC3BI/II and p62/SQSTM1, GFP-LC3 transfection, and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, regarding to the associated mechanisms, the effects of matrine on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mTOR pathway and beclin-1 were studied. Our results showed that: (1) both autophagy and apoptosis could be induced by treatment with matrine; (2) using the autophagic inhibitor chloroquine and beclin-1 small-interfering RNA, cell apoptosis induced by matrine could be enhanced in a caspase-dependent manner; and (3) autophagy was induced via inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and up-regulation of beclin-1. In conclusion, inhibition of autophagy could enhance matrine-induced apoptosis in human hepatoma cells.
The Homeobox Only Protein Homeobox (HOPX) and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yamashita Keishi , Katoh Hiroshi , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: November 2013

The HOP (homeobox only protein) homeobox (HOPX) is most closely related to the homeobox protein that contains a homeobox-like domain but lacks certain conserved residues required for DNA binding. Here, we review the current understanding of HOPX in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). HOPX was initially reported as a differentiation marker and is expressed in various normal tissues. In the colon, HOPX is expressed uniquely in the quiescent stem cell, +4, and in differentiated mucosal cells of the colon. HOPX expression is markedly suppressed in a subset of cancers, mainly in an epigenetic manner. CRC may include separate entities which are differentially characterized by HOPX expression from a prognostic point of view. HOPX itself can regulate epigenetics, and defective expression of HOPX can result in loss of tumor suppressive function and differentiation phenotype. These findings indicate that HOPX may be both a central regulator of epigenetic dynamics and a critical determinant for differentiation in human cells. HOPX downstream targets were identified in CRC cell lines and hold promise as candidates for therapeutic targets of CRC, such as EphA2 or AP-1. Further analysis will elucidate and confirm the precise role of such proteins in CRC progression.
Screening of Peptide Ligands for Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Glucose Dehydrogenase Using Antagonistic Template-Based Biopanning
Authors: Abe Koichi , Yoshida Wataru , Terada Kotaro , Yagi-Ishii Yukiko , Ferri Stefano , Ikebukuro Kazunori , Sode Koji
Published: November 2013

We have developed a novel method, antagonistic template-based biopanning, for screening peptide ligands specifically recognizing local tertiary protein structures. We chose water-soluble pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) glucose dehydrogenase (GDH-B) as a model enzyme for this screening. Two GDH-B mutants were constructed as antagonistic templates; these have some point mutations to induce disruption of local tertiary structures within the loop regions that are located at near glucose-binding pocket. Using phage display, we selected 12-mer peptides that specifically bound to wild-type GDH-B but not to the antagonistic templates. Consequently, a peptide ligand showing inhibitory activity against GDH-B was obtained. These results demonstrate that the antagonistic template-based biopanning is useful for screening peptide ligands recognizing the specific local tertiary structure of proteins.
Experimental Investigations of Biological Lubrication at the Nanoscale: The Cases of Synovial Joints and the Oral Cavity
Authors: Sotres Javier , Arnebrant Thomas
Published: November 2013

Interactions between surfaces are ubiquitous phenomena in living organisms. Nature has developed sophisticated strategies for lubricating these systems, increasing their efficiency and life span. This includes the use of water-based lubricants, such as saliva and synovial fluid. These fluids overcome the limitations of water as a lubricant by the presence of molecules such as proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides. Such molecules may alter surface interactions through different mechanisms. They can increase viscosity enabling fluid-film lubrication. Moreover, molecules adsorb on the surfaces providing mechanisms for boundary lubrication and preventing wear. The mentioned molecules have typical sizes in the nanometer range. Their interaction, as well as the interaction with the entrapping surfaces, takes place through forces in the range of nanonewtons. It is therefore not surprising that the investigation of these systems have been boosted by development of techniques such as scanning probe microscopies and the surface force apparatus which allow studying tribological processes at the nanoscale. Indeed, these approaches have generated an enormous amount of studies over the last years. The aim of this review is to perform a critical analysis of the current stage of this research, with a main focus on studies on synovial joints and the oral cavity.
General Approach for Introduction of Various Chemical Labels in Specific RNA Locations Based on Insertion of Amino Linkers
Authors: Graifer Dmitri , Karpova Galina
Published: November 2013

Introduction of reporter groups at designed RNA sites is a widely accepted approach to gain information about the molecular environment of RNAs in their complexes with other biopolymers formed during various cellular processes. A general approach to obtain RNAs bearing diverse reporter groups at designed locations is based on site-specific insertion of groups containing primary aliphatic amine functions (amino linkers) with their subsequent selective derivatization by appropriate chemicals. This article is a brief review on methods for site-specific introduction of amino linkers in different RNAs. These methods comprise: (i) incorporation of a nucleoside carrying an amino-linker or a function that can be substituted with it into oligoribonucleotides in the course of their chemical synthesis; (ii) assembly of amino linker-containing RNAs from short synthetic fragments via their ligation; (iii) synthesis of amino linker-modified RNAs using T7 RNA polymerase; (iv) insertion of amino linkers into unmodified RNAs at functional groups of a certain type such as the 5'-phosphates and N7 of guanosine residues and (v) introduction of an amino linker into long highly structured RNAs exploiting an approach based on sequence-specific modification of nucleic acids. Particular reporter groups used for derivatization of amino linker-containing RNAs together with types of RNA derivatives obtained and fields of their application are presented.