bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Border Screening for Detecting Influenza in Arriving Airline Travelers
Authors: Priest Patricia C. , Jennings Lance C. , Duncan Alasdair R. , Brunton Cheryl R. , Baker Michael G.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We measured symptom and influenza prevalence, and the effectiveness of symptom and temperature screening for identifying influenza, in arriving international airline travelers.

Methods. This cross-sectional study collected data from travelers to Christchurch International Airport, New Zealand, in winter 2008, via a health questionnaire, temperature testing, and respiratory sampling.

Results. Forms were returned by 15 976 (68%) travelers. Of these, 17% reported at least 1 influenza symptom, with runny or blocked nose (10%) and cough (8%) most common. Respiratory specimens were obtained from 3769 travelers. Estimated prevalence of influenza was 1.1% (4% among symptomatic, 0.2% among asymptomatic). The sensitivity of screening criteria ranged from 84% for “any symptom” to 3% for a fever of 37.8 °C or greater. The positive predictive value was low for all criteria.

Conclusions. Border screening using self-reported symptoms and temperature testing has limitations for preventing pandemic influenza from entering a country. Using “any symptom” or cough would lead to many uninfected people being investigated, yet some infected people would remain undetected. If more specific criteria such as fever were used, most infected people would enter the country despite screening.
Eficacia de la detección sistemática de la gripe en las fronteras en los viajeros que llegan por vía aérea
Authors: Priest Patricia C. , Jennings Lance C. , Duncan Alasdair R. , Brunton Cheryl R. , Baker Michael G.
Published: August 2015

Objetivos. Se midieron los síntomas y la prevalencia de la gripe (también llamada influenza), así como la eficacia del mecanismo de detección sistemática basado en los síntomas y la temperatura para diagnosticar la gripe en viajeros internacionales que llegaban por vía aérea.

Métodos. El presente estudio transversal recopiló datos de viajeros que llegaron al aeropuerto internacional de Christchurch (Nueva Zelandia) en el invierno del 2008 mediante un cuestionario de salud, medición de la temperatura y toma de muestras de las vías respiratorias.

Resultados. De los viajeros, 15 976 (68%) entregaron los formularios completos. De ellos, 17% notificaron al menos un síntoma de gripe; los síntomas más comunes fueron rinorrea o congestión nasal (10%) y tos (8%). Se tomaron muestras de las vías respiratorias de 3 769 viajeros. La prevalencia estimada de la gripe fue de 1,1% (4% en las personas sintomáticas, 0,2% en las asintomáticas). La sensibilidad de los criterios de detección varió de 84% para “cualquier síntoma” a 3% para la fiebre de 37,8 °C o mayor. El valor predictivo positivo fue bajo para todos los criterios.

Conclusiones. El método de detección sistemática en las fronteras mediante la autonotificación de síntomas y la toma de la temperatura presenta limitaciones para impedir que una gripe pandémica entre en un país. Basarse en criterios como “cualquier síntoma” o la tos haría que se investigara a varias personas no infectadas, mientras que algunas personas infectadas pasarían inadvertidas. Si se usaran criterios más específicos como la fiebre, la mayoría de las personas infectadas entrarían en el país a pesar del mecanismo de detección.
Explaining Racial Disparities in Infant Health in Brazil
Authors: Nyarko Kwame A. , Lopez-Camelo Jorge , Castilla Eduardo E. , Wehby George L.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We sought to quantify how socioeconomic, health care, demographic, and geographic effects explain racial disparities in low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth (PTB) rates in Brazil.

Methods. We employed a sample of 8949 infants born between 1995 and 2009 in 15 cities and 7 provinces in Brazil. We focused on disparities in LBW (< 2500 g) and PTB (< 37 gestational weeks) prevalence between infants of African ancestry alone or African mixed with other ancestries, and European ancestry alone. We used a decomposition model to quantify the contributions of conceptually relevant factors to these disparities.

Results. The model explained 45% to 94% of LBW and 64% to 94% of PTB disparities between the African ancestry groups and European ancestry. Differences in prenatal care use and geographic location were the most important contributors, followed by socioeconomic differences. The model explained the majority of the disparities for mixed African ancestry and part of the disparity for African ancestry alone.

Conclusions. Public policies to improve children’s health should target prenatal care and geographic location differences to reduce health disparities between infants of African and European ancestries in Brazil.
Preparedness for Natural Disasters Among Older US Adults: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Al-rousan Tala M. , Rubenstein Linda M. , Wallace Robert B.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We sought to determine natural disaster preparedness levels among older US adults and assess factors that may adversely affect health and safety during such incidents.

Methods. We sampled adults aged 50 years or older (n = 1304) from the 2010 interview survey of the Health and Retirement Study. The survey gathered data on general demographic characteristics, disability status or functional limitations, and preparedness-related factors and behaviors. We calculated a general disaster preparedness score by using individual indicators to assess overall preparedness.

Results. Participant (n = 1304) mean age was 70 years (SD = 9.3). Only 34.3% reported participating in an educational program or reading materials about disaster preparation. Nearly 15% reported using electrically powered medical devices that might be at risk in a power outage. The preparedness score indicated that increasing age, physical disability, and lower educational attainment and income were independently and significantly associated with worse overall preparedness.

Conclusions. Despite both greater vulnerability to disasters and continuous growth in the number of older US adults, many of the substantial problems discovered are remediable and require attention in the clinical, public health, and emergency management sectors of society.
Catastrophic Head-Neck Dissociation of a Modular Cementless Femoral Component
Authors: Swann R. Presley , Webb Jonathan E. , Cass Joseph R. , Van Citters Douglas W. , Lewallen David G.
Published: August 2015

Case:

We report two cases of modular head-neck junction failure involving the Stryker Accolade TMZF stem leading to sudden dissociation of the femoral head from the stem. Both patients presented with mechanical symptoms in the hip followed by pain and hip dysfunction. Disassembly of the head and deformation of the male taper were seen on preoperative radiographs. Intraoperatively, both patients had substantial metallosis with a markedly damaged taper requiring stem revision.

Conclusion:

We recommend regular clinical and radiographic surveillance of patients with the Stryker Accolade TMZF stem, especially those patients with pain and/or mechanical symptoms.
Intrameniscal Gouty Tophi in the Knee
Authors: Aoki Tetsuhiro , Tensho Keiji , Shimodaira Hiroki , Akaoka Yusuke , Takanashi Seiji , Shimojo Hisashi , Saito Naoto , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: August 2015

Case:

We report a case of recurrent acute arthritis and restricted range of motion in the knee joint, with magnetic resonance imaging subsequently detecting a nodular lesion within the lateral meniscus. Knee arthroscopy and histology revealed that the lesion was intrameniscal gouty tophi. After arthroscopic synovectomy and excision of the tophi, the symptoms resolved and the patient remained symptom-free at two years of follow-up.

Conclusion:

Surgeons should be aware of the presence of such pathology and consider arthroscopic surgery if the mechanical symptoms persist.
Adaptation of the Marital Offence-Specific Forgiveness Scale for Use in a Turkish Cultural Context
Authors: Erkan Zülal
Published: August 2015

I tested the dimensionality, reliability, and convergent validity of the Marital Offence-Specific Forgiveness Scale (MOFS) with a sample of 158 married Turkish couples. The MOFS consists of 10 items used to elicit 2 dimensions, namely, resentment–avoidance and benevolence, and
is designed to measure forgiveness regarding any offense, wrongdoing, or sin committed in a marital context. To test the factorial structure of the scale, confirmatory factor analysis was used. The psychometric features of the MOFS support its applicability to research conducted within the
Turkish cultural context.
Assessing a Chinese Version of the Runco Ideational Behavior Scale
Authors: Tsai Kuan Chen
Published: August 2015

I assessed the reliability and validity of a Chinese version of the Runco Ideational Behavior Scale (RIBS). I recruited 107 Taiwanese children (46 boys and 61 girls) for this study. The results indicated that the Chinese version of the RIBS is valid and reliable to some extent. A 2-factor
construct was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis, which is congruent with the statistical observations in the original study by Runco and colleagues. Nevertheless, the major difference between the current and original studies is that, in order to attain measurement model validity, 6
items were dropped from the Chinese version of the RIBS. Overall, the results obtained in the current study indicate that this abridged Chinese-language version of the RIBS has promise for future use. Limitations and implications of the study are discussed.
Effect of Chinese Employees' Emotional Creativity on their Innovative Performance
Authors: Wang Guomeng , Huang Huiming , Zheng Quanquan
Published: August 2015

On the basis of the social constructivist theory of emotion, we examined the relationship between employees' emotional creativity and innovative performance in the Chinese business environment, as well as the mediating or moderating roles of intrinsic motivation and supervisors' support
for employee creativity in this relationship. Participants were 546 supervisor–subordinate dyads employed at 18 enterprises in the areas of Changsha, Guangzhou, Nanjing, Hangzhou, and Shanghai in China. We performed factor analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis of the
collected data, and found that employees' emotional creativity had significant effects on their innovative performance, and that their intrinsic motivation played a mediating role in the relationship between emotional creativity and innovative performance. We also found that the supervisors'
support for employee creativity positively moderated the relationship between emotional creativity and intrinsic motivation. In addition, the supervisors' support for creativity acted as a mediated moderator of the relationship between employees' emotional creativity and innovative performance.
Sociable People Beware? Investigating Smartphone Versus Nonsmartphone Dependency Symptoms Among Young Singaporeans
Authors: Lin Trisha T. C. , Chiang Yi-Hsuan , Jiang Qiaolei
Published: August 2015

Our purpose in this web-based study was to relate smartphone and nonsmartphone use to symptoms of mobile phone dependency, and to examine sociability in this context. We used a stratified sampling method to recruit 551 Singaporean undergraduates. The results showed that young smartphone
users tended to have greater mobile phone dependency and more severe symptoms than nonsmartphone users did. We found that utilizing mobile Internet and text messaging were both positively associated with smartphone users' dependency. Regardless of phone type used, the level of sociability
of mobile phone users was positively associated with mobile dependency and symptoms of feeling anxious and lost, and withdrawal/escape.
The Interplay of Management Incentives and Audit Committee Communication on Auditor Judgment
Authors: Brown J. Owen , Popova Velina K.
Published: August 2015

This study investigates the interplay of management and the audit committee on auditor judgments and evidence documentation. In a 2 × 2 between-subjects experiment, 58 experienced auditors were tasked with evaluating an inventory obsolescence issue when management's incentives to influence the auditor were either higher or lower. The auditors were also either provided or not provided with additional communicated expectations from the audit committee that opposed management's aggressive reporting preference. Drawing on research on competing preferences and source credibility theory, we predict and find that when management's incentives are higher, additional audit committee communication has a significant and positive impact on auditors' evidence evaluation and related judgments. However, we find no effect of added audit committee influence when management incentives are lower. These findings highlight the importance of examining the interrelationships among the various actors contributing to corporate governance and also inform standard setters about the benefits of increased communication between audit committees and auditors.
Pilot Course: A Teaching Practicum Course as an Integral Component of an Accounting Doctoral Program
Authors: Callahan Carolyn M. , Spiceland Charlene P. , Spiceland J. David , Hairston Stephanie
Published: August 2015

This article presents one university's approach to supplementing traditional doctoral research training with a two-semester teaching practicum. The practicum is designed to help students develop and hone pedagogical and other teaching skills, while gaining insight into academic career acumen. It consists of two, one-hour courses taken by students during each of the first two semesters of their doctoral program. In the first semester, weekly teaching seminars are accompanied by an apprenticeship activity in which the students attend classes of faculty mentors throughout the term, teaching one of those classes toward the end of the term. In the second semester, the doctoral students are mentored through their first whole-semester teaching experience, sharing issues from that experience and sharpening skills in the weekly seminar discussions. The article provides details of the practicum and implementation guidance intended to encourage other Ph.D. programs to embrace the general approach we describe, adapting the specifics to reflect the resources and aspirations of their programs.
Hypothalamic Nesfatin-1 Stimulates Sympathetic Nerve Activity via Hypothalamic ERK Signaling
Authors: Tanida Mamoru , Gotoh Hitoshi , Yamamoto Naoki , Wang Mofei , Kuda Yuhichi , Kurata Yasutaka , Mori Masatomo , Shibamoto Toshishige
Published: August 2015

Nesfatin-1 acts on the hypothalamus and regulates the autonomic nervous system. However, the hypothalamic mechanisms of nesfatin-1 on the autonomic nervous system are not well understood. In this study, we found that intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of nesfatin-1 increased the extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) activity in rats. Furthermore, the activity of sympathetic nerves, in the kidneys, liver, and white adipose tissue (WAT), and blood pressure was stimulated by the ICV injection of nesfatin-1, and these effects were abolished owing to pharmacological inhibition of ERK. Renal sympathoexcitatory and hypertensive effects were also observed with nesfatin-1 microinjection into the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN). Moreover, nesfatin-1 increased the number of phospho (p)-ERK1/2–positive neurons in the PVN and coexpression of the protein in neurons expressing corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Pharmacological blockade of CRH signaling inhibited renal sympathetic and hypertensive responses to nesfatin-1. Finally, sympathetic stimulation of WAT and increased p-ERK1/2 levels in response to nesfatin-1 were preserved in obese animals such as rats that were fed a high-fat diet and leptin receptor-deficient Zucker fatty rats. These findings indicate that nesfatin-1 regulates the autonomic nervous system through ERK signaling in PVN-CRH neurons to maintain cardiovascular function and that the antiobesity effect of nesfatin-1 is mediated by hypothalamic ERK-dependent sympathoexcitation in obese animals.
Seasonal surface velocities of a Himalayan glacier derived by automated correlation of unmanned aerial vehicle imagery
Authors: Kraaijenbrink Philip , Meijer Sander W. , Shea Joseph M. , Pellicciotti Francesca , De Jong Steven M. , Immerzeel Walter W.
Published: August 2015

Debris-covered glaciers play an important role in the high-altitude water cycle in the Himalaya, yet their dynamics are poorly understood, partly because of the difficult fieldwork conditions. In this study we therefore deploy an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) three times (May 2013, October 2013 and May 2014) over the debris-covered Lirung Glacier in Nepal. The acquired data are processed into orthomosaics and elevation models by a Structure from Motion workflow, and seasonal surface velocity is derived using frequency cross-correlation. In order to obtain optimal surface velocity products, the effects of different input data and correlator configurations are evaluated, which reveals that the orthomosaic as input paired with moderate correlator settings provides the best results. The glacier has considerable spatial and seasonal differences in surface velocity, with maximum summer and winter velocities 6 and 2.5 m a-1, respectively, in the upper part of the tongue, while the lower part is nearly stagnant. It is hypothesized that the higher velocities during summer are caused by basal sliding due to increased lubrication of the bed. We conclude that UAVs have great potential to quantify seasonal and annual variations in flow and can help to further our understanding of debris-covered glaciers.
Assessment of Oral Hygiene Status and Attitude of Dental Students Towards Periodontal Care: An Introspective Mirror
Authors: Sharma Kratee , Chaubey Krishna K , Thakur Rajesh K , Agarwal Swati , Agarwal Mukund , Gupta Disha
Published: August 2015

Dental students represent the educated, urbanized, influential and motivated class of individuals. If motivated for oral health, they can transfer the same knowledge and behavior patterns to patients during their practices. With this intention, this study was planned. 200 dental students were assessed by a close-ended, four-item questionnaire. Oral hygiene was assessed by Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI, Greene and Vermilion, 1964) and gingival condition by Gingival Index (GI, Loe & Silness, 1963). A positive change in attitude was observed from first to final year students. 100% of them used tooth brush and paste, but 88%, 88% 96%, 92% in first, second, third and fourth year cleaned their tongue; whereas 70%, 92%, 94%, 92% of them, respectively, were in favor of scientific method of brushing. 92%, 90%, 96%, 100%, respectively, felt visiting the dentist during gingival bleeding. Also, there was statistically significant improvement in GI between first and final year (p=0.00005), between second and final year (p=0.0003) students. OHI showed a consistent improvement from first to final year (p<0.05).  A positive change in attitude with reduction in GI and OHI status was observed with the increase in professional years.Key message: The attitude towards periodontal care is quite unsubstantial and oral hygiene status, gingival condition among first and second year dental students is poor as compared to third year and final year students. So, there is need to bring about a change in the attitude and improvement in oral hygiene status and gingival condition of dental students from their initial years of learning.Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 44-48
Prophylactic use of cephradine in dental procedures: A observational study in Bangladesh
Authors: Jan Chowdhury Moin , Sattar Mostaque H , Howlader Mujibur Rahman , Pervin Kumkum
Published: August 2015

Bacteremia is common with manipulation of the teeth and periodontal tissues during dental procedures. Majority of dental office visits result in some degree of bacteremia that warrants antibiotic prophylaxis before a dental procedure to reduce the frequency, nature or duration of bacteremia. This study aimed to collect data on prophylactic use of cephradine which is most preferred in dental procedures in Bangladesh.  A total 2219 of patients both adult and children above 5 years were enrolled to assess use of antibiotic, its dose and duration for antibiotic prophylaxis during dental procedures. Efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis in terms of clinical cure, further dose modification and need to change antibiotic was evaluated at day 10 of antibiotic use and in case of root canal therapy at day 30. Any side effect of antibiotic use recorded within 3 days was considered for safety evaluation. This was a non-controlled, multicentre, observational study. 2016 (90.9%) of the patients received cephradine as prophylactic antibiotic with a mean dosage of 500mg (487.48+60.99) and duration of treatment was 3-7 days (5.47+1.03). Some of the dentists also preferred amoxicillin (149, 6.7%) and cephalexin (54, 2.4%) for prophylaxis. The majority of the patients (1657, 82.2%) who had prophylaxis with cephradine had no clinical sign of infection and some of the patients needed to change their initial dose or change of the antibiotic. Overall 1816 (81.8%) patients were found having no clinical sign of infection on antibiotic prophylaxis. Among the patients 239 (10.7%) needed to change the dose of prescribed antibiotic and 55 (2.4%) were required to change their prescribed antibiotic. However, the data on type of infection was not recorded. 109 (4.9%) patients were lost to follow up on Day 10. Prescribed antibiotic prophylaxis was not associated with adverse events in majority (91%) of the patients. Some of the patients reported diarrhea (104, 4.7%), stomach upset (68, 3.1%) and dizziness (31, 1.4%) during antibiotic use. However, those were self-limiting and no dose adjustment, discontinuation of therapy or withdrawal from the study was required. No serious adverse events were reported. Cephradine 500 mg for 5 days course was preferred as prophylactic antibiotic in dental procedures in this study. Majority of the patients had no clinical sign of infection on evaluation at day 10. Cephradine therapy was mostly not associated with adverse events in patients; however, diarrhea, stomach upset and dizziness were reported in some patients that were self-limiting.Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 49-54
Different Methods of Studying Root Canal Morphology of Human Tooth: A Review
Authors: Datta Piyali , Zahir Shabnam , Kundu Gautam Kumar , Dutta Kaushik
Published: August 2015

Successful root canal therapy requires an in-depth knowledge of root canal morphology.False assumptions about the root canal anatomy of teeth may lead to misdiagnosis, missed canals, improper debridement and breakage of root canal instruments during root canal treatment. The objective of this paper was to review the various methods used to study and understand root canal systems. The complexity of root canal morphology presents a challenge to any clinician. Any attempt to perform root canal therapy must be preceded with a thorough understanding of the anatomy of both the pulp chamber and the root canal system.Several methods have been used to examine the root canal system ranging from in vitro methods such as sectioning of teeth, metal castings to advanced in vivo tomographic imaging, along with the use of magnificationBangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 59-63
Androgen tic alopecia (AGA) -New Approach
Authors: Shafique Md Ahsan
Published: August 2015

Androgen tic alopecia is a no scarring progressive miniaturization of the hair follicle with a usual characteristic pattern distribution in genetically predisposed men 1. It is the most common hair loss disorder which causes significant impairment of life 2,3. The frequency and severity of male AGA increases with age in all ethnic groups 4.Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 64-65
Accidentally Broken Lateral Incisor Tooth at the Gingival Margin Treated by Endodontics, Cast Post and Core Finally Porcelain Jacket Crown: A Case Report
Authors: Nupur Nahid Sharmin , Rana Md Mehdi Masud , Rashid Fouzia
Published: August 2015

A successful treatment of a badly broken tooth in accidental case depends not only on good endodontic therapy but also on good prosthetic reconstruction of the tooth after the endodontic treatment is complete. In accidental case, sometimes it is found that there is very little or no clinical crown after root canal treatment. In such cases, additional retention & support of the restoration are difficult to achieve. In this case report endodontically treated tooth by suing cast post is discussed to achieve additional retention and supportBangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 73-74
Infections in Children with Newly Diagnosed Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Paul Shanjoy Kumar , Islam Quazi Rakibul , Uddin Golam Muin , Hossain M Moazzam
Published: August 2015

Patients with nephrotic syndrome (NS) are susceptible to different types of bacterial, viral & fungal infections. This prospective observational study was performed in the Pediatric Nephrology unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka from January, 2006 to May, 2008 to determine the types of infection associated with initial attack of idiopathic NS and to alert the physicians about this so that they can take preventive and therapeutic measures more promptly. 112 admitted children aged one to fifteen years with first attack of idiopathic NS were included. After control of existing infection, prednisolone was given in recommended dose & duration. All patients were followed for development of any type of new infection up to completion of treatment. Mean age was 61.87 months & male female ratio was 1.49:1. Most patients (78.57%) had been suffering from different types of infection on admission with male preponderence (59.09%) & most were under-6 years old (67.04%). During prednisolone therapy, 29.46% patients developed infections, 63.64% were male and under-6 years old were 72.73%. Fever, cough, abdominal pain & loose motion were the commonest presentations related to infection. Acute respiratory infection (ARI), acute watery diarrhea & urinary tract infection (UTI) were the most common infections on admission (53.57%, 34.82%, and 7.14% respectively). ARI & oral thrush were commonest infections during treatment with prednisolone (14.27% & 12.50% respectively). Infection should be ruled out carefully in every case of NS at each visit and during management in hospital & outside to reduce morbidity & mortality. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 1-4
Lower Jaw and Orolabial Analysis in Adult Bangladeshi Buddhist Chakma Females
Authors: Mostafa Asma , Banu Laila Anjuman , Sultana Azmeri
Published: August 2015

Background: It is well accepted that a single standard of craniofacial norms is not appropriate for application to diverse racial and ethnic groups, even for different sex and ages in same ethnic group. So it is necessary to develop craniofacial norms for different groups based on above factors. The present study was designed to establish the baseline measurements of the lower jaw and orolabial anthropometrical parameters and indices, and also to evaluate the differences (if any) on age related morphological variations of adult Bangladeshi Buddhist Chakma females. Methods: The study was descriptive, observational and cross-sectional in nature with some analytical components. The study group consisted of a convenient sample of 100 adult Bangladeshi Buddhist Chakma females; categorized into two groups  25 to 35 years (n = 70) and 35 to 45 years (n = 30). Variables were measured using physical and photographic procedures. Indices were calculated from those variables. An independent t test was performed to evaluate if there was any significant difference in measurements between the two age groups setting a p value of <0.05 as statistically significant. Results: All measurements show statistically non significant difference between two age groups except philtrum length (p = 0.02) and upper vermilion height to philtrum length index (p = 0.03). Conclusions: The result of this study can be useful for anatomists and anthropologists to serve as a basic framework for estimating the standard of lower jaw and orolabial dimensions of this population and also to compare the craniofacial dimensions of other ethnic groups of Bangladesh with this ethnic group. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 5-8
HbA1C in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ahmed Farhena , Hoque Mahmudul , Alam ASM Towhidul , Ahmed Shaheda , Tasnim Nayeema
Published: August 2015

Introduction: Approximately 7% of all pregnancies are complicated by Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.. The study was designed to determine the relationship between HbA1c & Gestational Diabetes Mellitus to reduce complications & monitoring treatment. Methods: The present cross-sectional comparative study was carried out in departments of Biochemistry and Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh. The data were collected by a structured questionnaire including age, socioeconomic condition, gravida, para, blood pressure, BMI, FBS, PPBS & Family H/O diabetes mellitus. Patients suffering from shortened red blood cell life span, sickle cell disease or any other condition that could result in premature red blood cell death and longer red blood cell life span, such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiency were excluded. Total 110 pregnant women were included in this study. Among them 70 were considered as case (whose FBS &PPBS according to ADA criteria of FPG value of ?5.3mmol/l and the WHO criteria of a 2-h PPPG value of ?7.8mmol/l) and 40 were considered as control (whose FBS <5.3mmol/L & PPBS <7.8mmol/L). HbA1c were measured in all sample. Results: Study showed that HbA1c( 6%) were more increased in GDM patients than that of the normal pregnancy( (6.95±1.38% Vs 5.05 ±0.27 %, p<0.001).Result showed that percentage of raised plasma HbA1c is more in GDM patients than that of the normal pregnancy (57.1%,P=<0.001).Pearson,s correlation coefficient (r) showed that there are positive correlation between Blood Glucose Level & HbA1c (Fasting Blood Glucose & HbA1c,r=0.869,p=<0.001 and Post Prandial Blood Sugar & HbA1c, r=0.507, p=<.0.001). Conclusion: Significantly raised level HbA1c in GDM help to formulate a management plan and thereby reduce the complications of this disease. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 11-15
A Cross Sectional Descriptive Study of Etiology and Clinical Pattern of Liver Abscess : 50 Cases
Authors: Das Joyabrata , Majumdar Subash , Das Subrata , Anwar Saiem Nurul , Ahmed Hossain , Hossain Istiaque
Published: August 2015

Background: The liver is the organ most subjected to the development of abscesses and made up 48 % of all visceral abscesses' and 7% of all intra abdominal abscesses. Liver abscess should be suspected when there is a combination of fever, leucocytosis, constitutional symptoms, and pain in the right upper quadrant, and tenderness over the liver or right lower rib cage. The liver is affected by a number of local and disseminated infections; their frequency and types vary considerably around the world. Parasitic disorders are more prevalent in developing countries. Methods: It was a cross-sectional descriptive study. The cases were taken from the admitted patients of Medicine unit of SMCH, Chittagong. The study was conducted over a period of one year with a sample size of 50 patients and sample was taken by purposive sampling. Results: Among 50 patients 40 (80%) were diagnosed as ALA and 10 (20%) were diagnosed as PLA. ALA cases are common in 21-30 years age group & PLA cases are more common in >50 years of age group. Majority of the cases were from rural area. Common clinical features were fever, abdominal pain, nausea and tender hepatomegaly. Diarrhea was present on admission in 7 (15.9%) patients of ALA. Anaemia was common in both but polymorphonuclear leucocytosis was moderate to severe in PLA. Microscopic examination of stool samples for E. Histolytica trophozoites was positive in 3 (7.5%) cases and cysts in 4(10%) cases. Nine patients had right sided pleural effusion. Conclusions: Clinical features are common in both ALA and PLA. Liver abscesses are more common in men and more prevalent in rural areas. ALA more commonly occurs in 21-30 years age group but can occur at any age. Pyogenic abscess is more common in older age group (>50 years) and E. Coli is the commonest organism. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 44-48
Alanine Aminotransferase Activity in Hypothyroid Patients: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Khan Md Aminul Haque , Rahman Md Rezwanur , Jahan Rawnak
Published: August 2015

Background: Hypothyroidism is associated with many biochemical abnormalities including increased serum alanine aminotransferase activity. Very few studies have been done regarding serum alanine aminotransferase activity in hypothyroid patients and, as far we know, no such study has been done in our populations. So, we designed this study in our population for evaluation of serum alanine aminotransferase activity in hypothyroid patients. The objective of this study was to assess serum alanine aminotransferase activity in hypothyroid patients and to find out relationship of alanine aminotransferase activity with severity of hypothyroidism. Methods: It was a retrospective cross sectional study to evaluate the serum alanine aminotransferase activity of hypothyroid patients and to find out relationship of alanine aminotransferase activity with severity of hypothyroidism and the values were compared with that of age and sex matched healthy euthyroid controls. Statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS for Windows version 12.0. Unpaired t test was done to find out any significant difference between the cases and controls with respect to age and serum alanine aminotransferase activity. Chisquare test was done to find out any significant difference between the cases and controls with respect to sex. Pearson correlation coefficient test was done to see the correlation of alanine aminotransferase activity with the severity of hypothyroidism. Results: Mean serum alanine aminotransferase activity was found significantly higher in hypothyroid patients compared to that of controls. Conclusion: Results of our study suggest that increased serum alanine aminotransferase activity is associated with hypothyroidism. Therefore, patients presenting with increased ALT activity with normal liver function tests are recommended to be investigated to explore hypothyroidism. Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College Journal Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2013: 49-51
ABO and Rh-D blood group distribution in a rural population of Bangladesh
Authors: Hira RM , Dhali LK , Dhali ND , Akash DK
Published: August 2015

This is an observational cross-sectional study aiming to identify the distribution patterns of ABO and Rh-D blood group in a rural population of Bagerhat District, Bangladesh in order to promote social awareness and safe blood transfusion among the population. After proper ethical consideration, a total of 164 people of a village in Bagerhat District were included in this study. They were selected irrespective of age and sex by systematic random sampling. ABO and Rh-D blood groups were determined by the antigen antibody agglutination test of slide method. The ABO group distribution, O (34.1%), A (26.2%), B (25.6% and AB (14.0%). Of the respondents, 105 (64.0%) were male and 59 (36.0%). The frequency of group O+ve comprised the highest (32.9%) of the samples followed by group A+ve, B+ve and AB+ve. The majority of the subjects were Rh-D positive (94.5%). It is observed that Rh-D positive group is more common in subjects with O group whereas Rh-D negative group is more common in B group. Most common blood group among this village population was O+ve which can safely be transfused to any other group. The study of blood grouping can generate database and create social awareness about self-blood grouping and safe blood transfusion among the population.Mediscope Vol. 2, No. 1: 2015, Pages 22-26
Ultrasonographic evaluation of portal hypertnsion
Authors: Ahamed MS , Chowdhury PK , Mohiuddin AS , Hossain MA , Paik B
Published: August 2015

A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was done to measure diameters of splenic, superior mesenteric and portal veins with their variation with respiration in patients with portal hypertension. Trans-abdominal ultrasonography was used for the purpose among purposively selected 59 patients with chronic liver disease and portal hypertension using computer sonography with multiple probes having multiple frequency depending on physical built of subjects. The diameters of selected veins were measured in the course of expiration and deep inspiration. Mean age of respondents was 53.2 years with standard deviation of 11.4 years. 44 (74.6%) subjects were male, whereas 15 (25.4%) were female. In all cases oesophageal varices were present. Portal vein was clearly visualized in all cases, while splenic vein in 53 (89.8%) cases and superior mesenteric vein in 49 (83.1%) cases. During deep inspiration, diameter of portal vein was greater than 13 mm in 31 (52.5%), while ?13 mm in 28 (47.5%) of portal hypertensive cases. Of 31, lack variation in diameter during respiration was observed in 29 (93.6%) cases. Size of liver (length in mid-clavicular line) in 18 (30.5%) cases were between 96 to 115 mm, while in 19 (32.2%) cases it was within 116 to 135 mm and in 22 (37.3%) cases it was between 136 to 160 mm. In 36 (61.0%) cases surface of liver was irregular, while in 51 (86.4%) cases parenchymal echotexture of liver was coarse. Size of spleen was enlarged in 44 (74.6%) cases, and ascites was present in 47 (79.7%) cases. Diameter variation with breathing of splenic and superior mesenteric veins observed only in 5 (8.5%) patients. Lack of diameter variation of portal, splenic and superior mesenteric veins with respiration in ultrasonography is an indicator of portal hypertension.Mediscope Vol. 2, No. 1: 2015, Pages 27-31
Cerebrovascular Response to CO2 Following 10 Days of Intermittent Hypoxia in Humans
Authors: Querido Jordan S. , Welch Joseph F. , Ayas Najib T. , Sheel A. William
Published: August 2015

INTRODUCTION: It has been demonstrated that the cerebrovascular response to hypoxia is blunted following 10 d of intermittent hypoxia (IH) in healthy humans. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that IH reduces the cerebrovascular response to CO2.METHODS:
Healthy male subjects (N = 8; 25 ± 2 yr) were exposed to 10 consecutive days of IH (12% O2 for 5 min followed by 5 min of normoxia for 1 h/d). The cerebrovascular response to CO2 was assessed prior to (PRE-IH) and following (POST-IH) the IH paradigm with
transcranial Doppler ultrasound.RESULTS: There was no change in eupnic measures during or following the IH paradigm; however, the ventilatory response to IH increased by the last exposure (3.0 ± 2.8 L · min−1). Cerebral blood flow velocity decreased
and increased with hypocapnia and hypercapnia, respectively, but cerebrovascular sensitivity to CO2 remained unchanged with IH (PRE-IH: 2.58 ± 0.50%/mmHg; POST-IH: 2.59 ± 0.74%/mmHg).DISCUSSION: Our data indicates that 10 d of IH in healthy humans does not
alter the cerebrovascular response to CO2. Redundancy of cerebrovascular regulation mechanisms to CO2 may work to counteract IH-induced dysregulation and protect cerebral tissue.Querido JS, Welch JF, Ayas NT, Sheel AW. Cerebrovascular response to CO2
following 10 days of intermittent hypoxia in humans. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(9):782–786.
Molded Communication Earplugs in Military Aviation
Authors: Lahtinen Taija M. M. , Leino Tuomo K.
Published: August 2015

INTRODUCTION: Radio communication remains important for the delivery of safety-critical information in military aviation. Pilots are exposed to high noise levels. Noise attenuation provided by certain helmets is not sufficient, and resulting noise exposure can deteriorate operational
effectiveness and flight safety. A need for hearing protection that enables efficient communication is obvious, especially for fighter and helicopter pilots. One possible solution for this issue is molded communication earplugs (m-CEP). Data about the advantages and disadvantages of m-CEPs
are limited.METHODS: To determine the usage rates, advantages, disadvantages and pilot opinions about m-CEPs, an anonymous survey study including 31 questions was conducted in fighter, fighter trainer, helicopter, and transport aircraft units of the Finnish Defense Forces.RESULTS:
Of the pilots who responded, 136 (93%) had used or tried m-CEPs and 90 (62%) were currently using them. There are many benefits to m-CEPs: they seem to enhance experienced speech intelligibility, since 85% of the pilots who had experience about them reported improved speech intelligibility
under difficult hearing conditions, and 93% would recommend them to other pilots. It seems m-CEPs provide equal benefits to pilots with and without current hearing problems. They were also considered better than previously used hearing protectors. Still, problems were common: 82% of the pilots
reported m-CEP related drawbacks, of which technical problems and discomfort issues were the most prevalent.DISCUSSION: Most military pilots hold a positive opinion on m-CEPs and are willing to recommend their use. Technical problems and discomfort issues are, however, relatively
common.Lahtinen TMM, Leino TK. Molded communication earplugs in military aviation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015;86(9):808–814.
Time Effects, Displacement, and Leadership Roles on a Lunar Space Station Analogue
Authors: Wang Ya , Wu Ruilin
Published: August 2015

INTRODUCTION: A space mission’s crewmembers are the most important group of people involved and, thus, their emotions and interpersonal interactions have gained significant attention. Because crewmembers are confined in an isolated environment, the aim of this study was
to identify possible changes in the emotional states, group dynamics, displacement, and leadership of crewmembers during an 80-d isolation period.METHODS: The experiment was conducted in an analogue space station referred to as Lunar Palace 1 at Beihang University. In our experiment,
all of the crewmembers completed a Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire every week and two group climate scales questionnaires every 2 wk; specifically, a group environment scale and a work environment scale.RESULTS: There was no third-quarter phenomenon observed in Lunar
Palace 1. However, fluctuations in the fatigue and autonomy subscales were observed. Significant displacement effects were observed when Group 3 was in the analogue. Leader support was positively correlated with the cohesion, expressiveness, and involvement of Group 3. However, leader control
was not.DISCUSSION: The results suggest that time effects, displacement, and leadership roles can influence mood states and cohesion in isolated crew. These findings from Lunar Palace 1 are in agreement with those obtained from Mir and the International Space Station (ISS).Wang
Y, Wu R. Time effects, displacement, and leadership roles on a lunar space station analogue. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(9):819–823.
Ultra-Portable Solar-Powered 3D Printers for Onsite Manufacturing of Medical Resources
Authors: Wong Julielynn Y.
Published: August 2015

INTRODUCTION: The first space-based fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer is powered by solar photovoltaics. This study seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of using solar energy to power a FDM 3D printer to manufacture medical resources at the Mars Desert Research Station
and to design an ultra-portable solar-powered 3D printer for off-grid environments.METHODS: Six solar panels in a 3 × 2 configuration, a voltage regulator/capacitor improvised from a power adapter, and two 12V batteries in series were connected to power a FDM 3D printer. Three
designs were printed onsite and evaluated by experts post analogue mission. A solar-powered 3D printer composed of off-the-shelf components was designed to be transported in airline carry-on luggage.RESULTS: During the analogue mission, the solar-powered printer could only be operated
for < 1 h/d, but was able to fabricate a functional dental tool, scalpel handle, and customized mallet splint over 2 d. Post analogue mission, an ultra-portable plug-and-play solar-powered 3D printer was designed that could print an estimated 16 dental tools or 8 mallet finger splints or
7 scalpel handles on one fully charged 12V 150Wh battery with a 110V AC converter.CONCLUSION: It is feasible to use solar energy to power a 3D printer to manufacture functional and personalized medical resources at a Mars analogue research station. Based on these findings, a solar-powered
suitcase 3D printing system containing solar panels, 12V battery with charge controller and AC inverter, and back-up solar charge controller and inverter was designed for transport to and use in off-grid communities.Wong JY. Ultra-portable solar-powered 3D printers for onsite manufacturing
of medical resources. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2015; 86(9):830–834.
An Overview on the Use of Infrared Sensors for in Field, Proximal and at Harvest Monitoring of Cereal Crops
Authors: Cozzolino Daniel , Porker Kenton , Laws Michael
Published: August 2015

Farmers are increasingly demanding rapid, cost-effective, easy-to-use and non-destructive methods for monitoring changes in the physical and chemical characteristics of crops and plants from the early stages of crop development until harvest. Remote and proximal sensor tools have been used recently to monitor different aspects of cereal production (e.g., fertilization, crop diseases). Most of these tools are characterized as non-destructive, non-invasive and easy-to-use, and most of them are based in near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. This article reviews recent and potential applications for the use of proximal sensors based on NIR spectroscopy to monitor dry matter (DM), yield, nitrogen and diseases in different cereal crops.
Proportionate Minimum Error Entropy Algorithm for Sparse System Identification
Authors: Wu Zongze , Peng Siyuan , Chen Badong , Zhao Haiquan , Principe Jose
Published: August 2015

Sparse system identification has received a great deal of attention due to its broad applicability. The proportionate normalized least mean square (PNLMS) algorithm, as a popular tool, achieves excellent performance for sparse system identification. In previous studies, most of the cost functions used in proportionate-type sparse adaptive algorithms are based on the mean square error (MSE) criterion, which is optimal only when the measurement noise is Gaussian. However, this condition does not hold in most real-world environments. In this work, we use the minimum error entropy (MEE) criterion, an alternative to the conventional MSE criterion, to develop the proportionate minimum error entropy (PMEE) algorithm for sparse system identification, which may achieve much better performance than the MSE based methods especially in heavy-tailed non-Gaussian situations. Moreover, we analyze the convergence of the proposed algorithm and derive a sufficient condition that ensures the mean square convergence. Simulation results confirm the excellent performance of the new algorithm.