bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of epoxy resins with thermoplastic segmented polycarbonate-based polyurethanes
Authors: Pavlicevic Jelena , Jovicic Mirjana , Simendic Vesna , Bera Oskar , Radicevic Radmila , Spírková Milena
Published: December 2013

In this work, epoxy hybrid materials were synthesized by addition of
thermoplastic segmented aliphatic polyurethanes with good elastic properties.
The modified epoxy samples were obtained by curing of previously homogenized
mixture of prepared polyurethane melts, epoxy resin and crosslinking agent
Jeffamine D-2000. The influence of different weight content of polyurethanes
(5, 10 and 15 wt. % compared to pure epoxy resin) as well the influence of
different hard segments of elastomers (20, 25 and 30 wt. %) on the curing of
modified epoxy systems was studied. The curing was followed by differential
scanning calorimetry (DSC), in dynamic regime from 30 to 300?C, at three
heating rates (5, 10 and 20?C/min). With the increase of hard segments
content of polyurethanes added in higher concentration (10 and 15 wt. %) into
epoxy matrix, the temperature of maximum ratio of curing was shifted to lower
values (from 205 to 179?C). Obtained DSC data were analyzed using two
integral methods (Ozawa-Flynn-Wall and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose) and one
differential kinetic model (Friedman). The significant differences were
observed in the second part of the epoxy curing (for the reaction degrees
higher than 60 %), where the values of activation energies remarkably
increase. The addition of polyurethane elastomers retarded the curing process
due to decreased mobility of reactant molecules caused by higher viscosity of
reaction mixture. By detailed analysis of determined kinetic parameters, it
is concluded that the influence of slow diffusion is more pronounced in the
presence of thermoplastic polycarbonate-based polyurethanes, which confirmed
their effect on the mechanism of epoxy curing. The highest tensile strength
and hardness showed the DGEBA modified with the polyurethane with highest
hard segment content. Increasing the hard segment content of polyurethane and
its concentration in matrix, the tensile strength of modified epoxy was
increased. The elongation at break of modified epoxy samples was
significantly improved by addition of polycarbonate-based polyurethanes with
low hard segment content, due to higher content of flexible soft segment
chains.
Bioleaching of pollymetallic sulphide concentrate using thermophilic bacteria
Authors: Vukovic Milovan , Strbac Nada , Sokic Miroslav , Grekulovic Vesna , Cvetkovski Vladimir
Published: December 2013

An extreme thermophilic, iron-sulphur oxidising bacterial culture was
isolated and adapted to tolerate high metal and solids concentrations at
70?C. Following isolation and adaptation, the culture was used in a batch
bioleach test employing a 5-l glass standard magnetic agitated and aerated
reactor, for the bioleaching of a copper-lead-zinc collective concentrate.
The culture exhibited stable leach performance over the period of leach
operation and overall copper and zinc extractions higher than 97%. Lead
sulphide is transformed into lead sulphate remaining in the bioleach residue
due to the low solubility in sulphate media. Brine leaching of bioleach
residue yields 95% lead extraction.
Structure-reactivity correlation for the kinetics of the reaction of substituted 4-phenyl-1,4-dihydropyridines formation
Authors: Urosevic Jovica , Drmanic Sasa , Nikolic Jasmina , Juranic Ivan , Jovanovic Bratislav
Published: December 2013

Quantitative structure-reactivity correlations for the kinetics of the
Hantzsch's synthesis of substituted 4-phenyl-1,4-dihydropyridines in the
reaction between ethyl m- and p-substituted benzylidene acetoacetate and
enamine has been studied. The reaction kinetics was followed using
spectrophotometric measurements. It was found that the reaction correspond to
the second-order kinetics. Quantitative structure-reactivity correlations of
log k with the corresponding substituent constants (s,s+,sI and sR+) using
Hammett and extended Hammett equation (DSP equation). They show linear
relationship with positive values of reaction constants (r). The obtained
data were processed by the linear regression analysis. It is confirmed that
Michael's addition of enamine to benzylidene represents the slow step of the
reaction with high positive charge at the benzylidene molecule. MO
calculations were performed and they were also in agreement with the
conclusions derived from structure-reactivity correlations.
The Create-a-Game Assignment and English Teaching Ability of Japanese College Students
Authors: Kobayashi Futoshi
Published: December 2013

Japanese college students ( N = 18) aspiring to become English teachers in junior or senior high schools studied several examples of educational games and created their own English games as an assignment during the last two weeks of an educational psychology course. Results indicated (1) a significant increase between pre- and post- self-evaluations of students' own English teaching ability, and (2) significantly positive ratings of the effectiveness of the assignment from a neutral Likert response point. As the use of games for effective learning has been demonstrated among college students on various psychology courses in the USA, the results suggested this might also be beneficial for (1) Japanese students and (2) educational psychology courses.
A Case Study of Professional Boundary Issues Experienced by Undergraduate Psychology Students in a Supervised Field Experience Course
Authors: Sharp Gwen , Yao Richard , Cresiski Robin , Hahn Kate
Published: December 2013

There has been little research on the types of boundary issues encountered in undergraduate psychology field experience courses, despite the increased popularity of such courses. This case study identifies the frequency and types of boundary issues faced by undergraduate psychology students enrolled in such a course, including the most common issues experienced at different types of placements. The case study included 50 students enrolled in a supervised undergraduate psychology field experience course at a small public teaching institution. Boundary issues, including inappropriate comments, behavior, or physical contact from employees or clients, were not uncommon, but varied based on student characteristics and type of placement. Women reported more frequent, and serious, inappropriate comments and behavior than men. Boundary issues were most common in drug and alcohol rehabilitation agencies. The findings from this case study suggest several steps field experience supervisors may take to improve the learning experience for students.
The expression of the eotaxins IL-6 and CXCL8 in human epithelial cells from various levels of the respiratory tract
Authors: Paplińska-Goryca Magdalena , Nejman-Gryz Patrycja , Chazan Ryszarda , Grubek-Jaworska Hanna
Published: December 2013

Airway epithelium acts as multifunctional site of response in the respiratory tract. Epithelial activity plays an important part in the pathophysiology of obstructive lung disease. In this study, we compare normal human epithelial cells from various levels of the respiratory tract in terms of their reactivity to pro-allergic and pro-inflammatory stimulation. Normal human nasal, bronchial and small airway epithelial cells were stimulated with IL-4 and IL-13. The expressions of the eotaxins IL-6 and CXCL8 were evaluated at the mRNA and protein levels. The effects of pre-treatment with IFN-γ on the cell reactivity were measured, and the responses to TNF-α, LPS and IFN-γ were evaluated. All of the studied primary cells expressed CCL26, IL-6 and IL-8 after IL-4 or IL-13 stimulation. IFN-γ pre-treatment resulted in decreased CCL26 and increased IL-6 expression in the nasal and small airway cells, but this effect was not observed in the bronchial cells. IL-6 and CXCL8 were produced in varying degrees by all of the epithelial primary cells in cultures stimulated with TNF-α, LPS or IFN-γ. We showed that epithelial cells from the various levels of the respiratory tract act in a united way, responding in a similar manner to stimulation with IL-4 and IL-13, showing similar reactivity to TNF-α and LPS, and giving an almost unified response to IFN-γ pre-stimulation.
Probing Colloidal Particle Aggregation by Light Scattering
Authors: Trefalt Gregor , Szilagyi Istvan , Oncsik Tamas , Sadeghpour Amin , Borkovec Michal
Published: November 2013

The present article reviews recent progress in the measurement of aggregation rates in colloidal suspensions by light scattering. Time-resolved light scattering offers the possibility to measure absolute aggregation rate constants for homoaggregation as well as heteroaggregation processes.
We further discuss the typical concentration dependencies of the aggregation rate constants on additives. Addition of simple salts containing monovalent counterions leads to screening of the electrostatic repulsion of the charged particles and a transition from slow to rapid aggregation. Addition
of salts containing multivalent counterions may lead to a charge reversal, which results in a sequence of two instability regions. Heteroaggregation rates between oppositely charged particles decrease with increasing salt level. This decrease is caused by screening of the electrostatic attraction between these particles.
Interface Dipoles for Tuning Energy Level Alignment in Organic Thin Film Devices
Authors: Nüesch Frank A.
Published: November 2013

One of the key features of organic optoelectronic and electronic devices resides in the multilayer architecture of the device stack. The performance of the latter strongly depends on the interface quality between organic layers or at the electrode heterojunction. Apart from interface
thermodynamics governing adhesion and wetting, the electronic energy levels of the organic semiconductor are affected by the interface properties in a drastic way. This mini review gives a short overview on the possibilities to adjust frontier orbital energy levels using oriented electrical
dipoles at the interfaces.
Social, Environmental and Biological Determinants of Cerebral Palsy in Children with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in India
Authors: Lakhan R
Published: November 2013

Background   Cerebral palsy (CP) is a global public health problem affecting 2.12 to 2.45 per 1000 live birth across the world. Cerebral palsy is an upper motor neuron, non-progressive disorder commonly associated with intellectual disability. The presence of cerebral palsy effects person’s overall life. Objectives This study primarily sought predictive capacity of social, environmental and biological determinants of CP in ID. Materials and Methods This is a cross-sectional study design. A total of 262 children, aged 3 to 18 years, with ID were assessed for cerebral palsy and diagnosed on basis of clinical examination in a community based rehabilitation project in Barwani, India. Information was collected by parent interviews, on social, environmental and biological determinants. A logistic regression model has been applied between determinants and CP.  Results Logistic regression demonstrated that likelihood of CP in ID children can be predicted on bases of their age (odd ratio = 0.856, CI 95% - 0.76-0.95), intelligence quotients (IQ) (odd ratio = 0.782, CI 95% - 0.73-0.83) and family history of intellectual disabilities (odd ratio = 0.051, CI 95% - 2.36 -0.99) and epilepsy (odd ratio = 0.008, CI 95% - 2.58-1.28). Comorbid conditions of downs syndrome and epilepsy also predicts likelihood of CP in ID. Conclusion Likelihood of CP in ID children can be predicted by their age, IQ, family history of intellectual disability, epilepsy and comorbid conditions of downs syndrome and epilepsy. Gender, socio-economic status and population (tribal versus non-tribal) determinants have no predictive relation with CP in the group. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v3i3.9187 Nepal Journal of Epidemiology 2013;3(3): 262-268
Injury Prevention: A Public Health Concern for India
Authors: Lakhan R
Published: November 2013

The poor implementation of traffic rules & regulations, heterogeneous mixed traffic, poorly designed roads, traffic vehicles, increasing speed, poor use of protective device such as helmet, drinking and driving, poor visibility, and poor trauma care are a major concern in reducing the prevalence of injuries and related outcome5. Looking at the magnitude of the problems, strong public health emphasis is needed in the areas of research, policy development, community education and awareness, and the health care system in India.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v3i3.9189 Nepal Journal of Epidemiology 2013;3(3): 275-276
Plagiarism: Who is responsible author or the journal editors?
Authors: Banerjee I , Roy B , Sathian B , Banerjee I , Saha A
Published: November 2013

I am writing in context to an article recently been published in the Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics, Volume 3, Issue 4, July-August 2013 entitled ‘’Medications For Anxiety: A Drug Utilization Study In Psychiatry Outpatients From A Tertiary Care Centre Of Eastern India’4. http://jddtonline.info/index.php/jddt/article/view/574 I was very shocked to see that the above article is plagiarized from one of my paper which is the most  popular article 53475 views till 21st July 2013 in NJE, ‘’Medications for Anxiety: A Drug Utilization Study In Psychiatry Inpatients From A Tertiary Care Centre of Western Nepal’’5 published in Nepal Journal of Epidemiology on September 2011. http://nepjol.info/index.php/NJE/article/view/5753DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nje.v3i3.9190 Nepal Journal of Epidemiology 2013;3(3): 277-278
Evaluation of Environmental Susceptibility of Bituminous Mastic Viscosity as a Function of Mineral and Biomass Fillers
Authors: Hesami Ebrahim , Bidewell Nathan , Birgisson Björn , Kringos Niki
Published: November 2013

Bituminous mastics influence many other important asphalt mixture properties in addition to their own allowance for the load transfer in the aggregate skeleton. The influence of bituminous mastics extends to the overall stability of a mixture, air void distribution, bitumen draindown during transport, a mixture's workability during the laying process, and the overall in-time performance of the pavement. To understand the properties of asphalt mixtures and their resistance to environmentally induced failure mechanisms, it is paramount to study not only bitumen and the asphalt mixture but also the mastic itself. Current asphalt design procedures do not take mastic behavior into account, however; this omission leads to a significant flaw in the ability to design and predict asphalt concrete response. This paper presents the results of an ongoing research project to enhance the understanding of the mastic phase as well as to develop a new test protocol to characterize mastics. A description is given of the measurements of mastic viscosity for different types of mastics in which the bitumen source is kept as a constant but with varying fillers as well as concentrations. Environmental susceptibility was investigated by subjecting the samples to aging and moisture conditioning. Biomass fillers were included in some of the mastics, in addition to some of the traditional fillers, to show their impact on the viscosity under varying conditions. Results showed that the developed test protocol was able to identify clearly the impact of filler properties on the mastic viscosity. A critical filler concentration was identified beyond which the viscosity behavior became nonlinear. The results also showed that moisture and aging had significant effects on the viscosity of mastics.
Asphalt Binder Contribution to Mixture Workability and Application of Asphalt Lubricity Test to Estimate Compactability Temperatures for Warm-Mix Asphalt
Authors: Hanz Andrew J. , Bahia Hussain U.
Published: November 2013

The disconnect between estimated compaction temperatures on the basis of viscosity and behavior observed in laboratory- and field-compacted mixes indicates that the sole use of viscosity is insufficient to characterize the role of the asphalt binder in mixture compaction. The asphalt lubricity test was presented as a complement or replacement to viscosity on the basis of the concept that it was necessary to measure the properties of binders in thin films to relate better to compaction of mixes and to detect the effects of warm-mix asphalt (WMA) additives. To assess the value of the asphalt lubricity test, the relative contributions of lubricity, viscosity, and aggregate gradation on mixture workability at different levels of compactive effort were studied with statistical analysis. The mixes included fine and coarse gradations prepared with various conventional and WMA-modified binders, compacted at a range of temperatures representative of those used for WMA. Results indicated that gradation and binder lubricity contributed significantly to mixture workability at conditions of lower temperature, lower density, or both. The effects of viscosity were found to be insignificant. Aggregate gradation was found to be the most influential factor, which indicated that, for some mixes, use of WMA additives was not always necessary to improve laboratory compaction. To support selection of compaction temperatures on the basis of binder properties, a method was presented to apply the asphalt lubricity test to estimate minimum WMA compaction temperatures.
Peanut Cultivar Response to Tomato Spotted Wilt over Five Planting Dates
Authors: Nuti R. C. , Chen C. Y. , Dang P. M. , Harvey J. E.
Published: December 2013

Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is vectored by thrips and causes an economically damaging peanut disease in the southeastern U.S. Peanut planting was traditionally initiated when soil temperatures became favorable in April. Planting in the latter two thirds of May is recommended to avoid thrips feeding and reduce tomato spotted wilt (TSW) incidence. This regime concentrates work load for growers and buying points, increases risk of tropical storm damage during harvest, and may contribute to reduced crop maturity. Improved TSW tolerance in cultivars may allow growers to plant earlier spreading risk and work load. Cultivars Georgia Green, Georgia-03L, AT 3085RO, and Flavor Runner 458 were compared with the advanced breeding line EXP 271516 based on peanut foliar condition, pod yield, and grade in 2008 and 2009 in Dawson, Georgia and Headland, Alabama. Peanuts were planted at five planting dates starting in late April through early June each year. Disease incidence was variable according to year, location, and planting date. Planting dates in April and early May resulted in higher TSW incidence. Foliar TSW ratings for the susceptible cultivar Flavor Runner 458 ranged between 48–96% at harvest. Georgia Green had 10–65% TSW incidence while maintaining yields between 3,315–5,440 kg/ha. Other cultivars had better TSW tolerance resulting in higher yield under more intense TSW pressure. Planting in the middle of May or later resulted in the highest yields. Cultivars with improved tolerance to TSW maintained yield above 4,490 kg/ha in early plantings. These results indicate the least risky management is possible by planting the most TSW tolerant genotypes during the current recommended planting dates.
A Refitting Study of Late Early to Middle Stone Age Lithic Assemblages from the Site of Kudu Koppie, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Sumner T. Alexandra
Published: November 2013

The examination of lithic material from the late Early Stone Age (ESA) and Middle Stone Age (MSA) levels of Kudu Koppie (KK), Limpopo Province (South Africa) has revealed a range of raw material exploitation patterns and lithic technology. Situated on an escarpment within close proximity to the modern day Limpopo River, and given the high concentration of raw material sources within easy access of the site, KK offered an ideal environment for use by early human groups. This paper reviews the results of a refitting study of material associated with four types of raw material from four out of ten excavated squares at KK. The results demonstrate evidence for a range of technological approaches that are, in some cases, associated with differential use of various lithic materials. In addition, the analysis of the KK refits offers high-resolution insights into the unique qualities of individual technological events including the recycling of previously exploited nodules and, through additional flaking, the co-opting and alteration of one type of tool for the purpose of producing a second form of tool. Moreover, this paper also clearly demonstrates the applicability and value of refitting large Early and Middle Stone Age assemblages, thus offering interpretations concerning early prehistoric technological behaviour that would otherwise be rarely revealed.
Pattern of Dermatologic Disorders in Infants
Authors: Hussain Mahfuza , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Islam SM Shaheedul , Amin Narul , Begum Jamila
Published: December 2013

Background: Pattern of skin disorders varies in different ages and in different countries. This pattern also varies among children of different ages. The prevalence pattern reflects socioeconomic, environmental and hygienic condition of a community. Objective: This study was planned to evaluate the magnitude of skin diseases and pattern of various dermatoses among children below one year of age in a major tertiary care hospital in the capital of Bangladesh. Method: A retrospective study was undertaken to determine the pattern of skin diseases during the period of January 2010 to June 2012 at the dermatology outpatient department of a tertiary care pediatric hospital in the capital of Bangladesh. Data were analyzed to determine the pattern of skin diseases in children less than one year of age, seen at the Out Patient Department (OPD) of Dhaka Shishu Hospital (DSH). Results: A total of 36608 cases were seen at the dermatological OPD of DSH out of which 9293 (25.39%) were less than one year of age. The frequency of distribution of dermatological diseases was more in male patients 58.2% than in female patients 41.8%. Neonates were 649 (7%) and rest were infants were 8644 (93%). Eczema was the most common skin disorder (55.41%) followed by impetigo & other bacterial infections (27.55%) and scabies (23.44%). Cutaneous fungal infections were 13.99%, miliaria was 4.9%, erythema neonatorum 4.42%, urticaria was 2.18%, bullous lesions 1.45%, haemangioma 1.17% and pityriasis alba 1.15%. About 16 other dermatological disorders were indentified each of which was less than 1% in distribution. Conclusions: Eczema, superficial bacterial infections, scabies and superficial fungal infections were most common dermatological problem in infants. Birdem Med J 2013; 3(2): 80-84 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i2.17210
Medical Quiz Vol.3(2): Single Best Answer (SBA)
Authors: Ahmed Jamal Uddin
Published: December 2013

Birdem Med J 2013; 3(2): 122-123 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i2.17220
Name of the Reviewers of Articles in this Issue Vol.3(2)
Authors: Editor The
Published: December 2013

Birdem Med J 2013; 3(2): 134 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v3i2.17228
Association of Serum Folic Acid with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Rahman Hasan Zahidur , Islam Md Rafiqul , Bhuyian Moniruzamman , Rana Masud , Imam Rashed , Salauddin Abu Jafar Md , Patwary Khairul Kabir , Uddin Muhammad Salah
Published: November 2013

Background: Stroke is the third commonest cause of death in developed countries and is responsible for the physical disability of a large population. The study was designed to see the association of serum folic acid with ischemic stroke. It was concluded that the low levels of folic acid are associated with ischemic stroke. Aim and objectives: To evaluate the association of serum folic acid level with ischemic stroke and to measure and compare the serum folic acid level among the cases and control subjects. Material and method: This study was a case-control study which was conducted in the Department of Neurology and Department of Biochemistry of BSMMU, Dhaka, between the period of 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2011 for duration of two years. A total number of 60 patients presented with ischemic stroke and 60 control person were enrolled in this study. All patients of both sexes, aged between 20 years and above presented with ischemic stroke, from 0 day to 1 month that was confirmed by CT scan of head/MRI of brain. Blood sample was collected from the cases and the controls and analyzed at the Dept. of Biochemistry, BSMMU for estimation of serum folic acid, serum homocysteine fasting blood sugar. Fasting lipid profile for cases only. Result: The mean ± SD of age of the cases was 58.42 ± 11.47 and among the cases 45 (75.0%) were male and 15 (25.0%) were female. Among the control male and female were 43 (71.7%) and 17 (28.3%) respectively. The mean (±SD) serum folate level of case and control group was 6.26(± 4.06) and 8.07(± 4.70) respectively. Statistically significant differences was observed between case and control group in term of Serum folate (p<0.05). This study showed serum folate level was deficient at the early period of ischemic stroke. Conclusion: Low serum folate concentration is significantly and independently associated with increased risk for ischemic stroke. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17173 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 74-80
Sodium Valproate is More Effective than Pizotifen in the Prophylaxis of Migraine Patients
Authors: Rana Md Masud , Anwarullah AKM , Mohammad Quazi Deen , Islam Md Rafiqul , Rahman Hasan Zahidur , Bhuiyan Moniruzzaman , Jahan Ferdous , Imam Hasan , Shoab AKM , Ahmed Sharif Uddin , Alim Abdul , Nahar Samsun
Published: November 2013

Background and objectives: Migraine is now ranked as number 19 among all diseases causing disability by WHO1 which is characterized by recurrent attacks of various combinations of headache and neurological, gastrointestinal and autonomic symptoms2 accompanied by photophobia, phonophobia and vomiting3. The treatment of migraine involves acute, preventive drugs and non-pharmacological strategies. The basic principle in management of migraine is avoiding the trigger factors, blocking the mediators and splinting the end organ4. Though there is no significant curable treatment but there are some internationally proven and well accepted prophylactic medication which reduces headache severity, frequency, duration and risk for rebound5. Sodium valproate and pizotifen are commonest of them6, where sodium valproate is more effective than pizotifen in the prophylaxis of migraine patients. Methods: This study was a single blind randomized clinical trial carried out in the neurology outpatient department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka (BSMMU) for the period of 2 years, among adult patients between the age of 16-50 years. Results: A total of 120 patients were included & divided into two groups such as group-A(60 patients) treated by sodium valproate & group-B(60 patients) treated by pizotifen for a period of 6 months and followed up every two months for 3 times and showed sodium valproate is more effective than pizotifen. Conclusion: This study permit to conclude that efficacy of sodium valproate is more than pizotifen in the prophylaxis of migraine patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17174 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 81-87
Comparative Study of Risk Factors Between Lacunar and Non-lacunar Ischemic Strokes
Authors: Elyas Dewan Md , Rahman Aminur , Mohammad Quazi Deen , Mondol Badrul Alam , Hossain Sakhawat , Islam Sirajee Shafiqul , Shahi Mohammad Selim , Baki Morshed , Sarker Mohammad Abdus Sattar
Published: November 2013

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in both developed as well as developing countries The risk factors in lacunar stroke differ in comparison to nonlacunar strokes. In this study risk factors of lacunar stroke in comparison to non-lacunar were evaluated. Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the risk factors among lacunar stroke and non-lacunar stroke. Methodology: This comparative study conducted in the department of Medicine and Neurology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from September 2010 to August 2011. MRI of brain was done in 151 patients above 18 years of age with ischemic stroke and Lacunar stroke was found in 31 patients and non-lacunar stroke was detected in 120 patients. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria from them 30 patients with lacunar stroke were selected as Group-A patients and equal number of non-lacunar stroke same ages as group B were compared of. The risk factors of stroke were defined as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, smoking, history of transient ischemic attack, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation and carotid artery stenosis. Results: Out of 151 patients with ischemic stroke non-lacunar stroke was predominant, which was 79.47% and lacunar stroke was 20.52%. The mean age was found 60.9±10.2 years in Group A and 56.2±11.8 years in Group B, which was almost similar between two groups (p>0.05). Male were predominant, which was 63.33% and 76.67% in lacunar and non-lacunar stroke respectively. Male and female ratio was 2.3:1. Regarding the risk factors hypertension was observed most common risk factor among the patients having lacunar and non-lacunar strokes. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were common in lacunar stroke and myocardial infarction, carotid artery stenosis and hypercholesterolemia were common in non-lacunar stroke which were statistically significant (p<0.05) between the both groups. However, the percentage of smoking, previous TIA and atrial fibrillation were not significantly (p>0.05) different between lacunar and non-lacunar stroke. Conclusion: Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were common in lacunar stroke, and myocardial infarction, whereas carotid artery stenosis and hypercholesterolemia were common in non-lacunar stroke and the both groups were statistically significant (p<0.05) . So modification of risk factors may reduce the incidence of ischemic stroke. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17176 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 88-95
Early Post-operative Visual Outcome in Patient with Pituitary Adenoma
Authors: Amin Md Rezaul , Nath Haradhon Deb , Hossain M Afzal , Barua Kanak Kanti
Published: November 2013

Background: Pituitary adenoma, which accounts for 17.4% of all brain tumors, is the third most frequently diagnosed brain tumor, following intracranial glioma and meningioma. The visual disturbance in pituitary adenoma ranged from blurring of vision with or without headache to total loss of vision. In patients with visual field defects, bitemporal hemianopia was the commonest visual field defect. Early improvement of visual function is one of the major indication surgery. Objective: The purpose of this study was to comparison between the pre and post-operative visual parameters and to find out the value in assessment of the prognosis of early postoperative visual function and also to find out the factor which influence the early post-operative visual outcome. Methods: A prospective study was done from September 2010 to April 2012 in the department of neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, 30 cases of pituitary adenoma had been included in this study of those who were presented with visual symptoms. Visual assessment was done before the operation and outcome was analyzed at discharged from hospital. Results: Within 60 eyes, 13 (43.3%) patients presented with blindness of one or both eyes. 10 (33.3%) presented with uniocular and 3 (10.0%) presented with binocular blindness. Duration of the symptoms ranged from 2 months to 48 months. Patients underwent either transcranial or transsphenoidal tumor decompression. At discharge out of 30 patients, 23 (76.7%) showed improvement, 2 (6.6%) patients were deteriorated post-operatively. P value was <0.001, in z test, Z=91.5, which was highly significant. Post-operative visual status was analyzed with age, sex, duration of symptoms, suprasellar extension, and methods of surgery and extent of tumor resection to find out that any other factor influenced the visual outcome. In bivariate analysis it was shown that only duration of the symptoms only other factor that influenced the visual outcome (statistically significant, p value 0.017). Conclusion: With this study it was statistically proved that pre-operative visual status is the main factor for improvement of early post-operative visual outcome in pituitary adenoma and duration of symptoms had also influence the early post-operative visual outcome. Duration less than 12 months had a favorable outcome. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17182 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 108-115
A Case of Idiopathic Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Bhuiyan Moniruzzaman , Uddin Mohammad Najim , Rana Md Masud , Ahmed Anis , Islam Md Rafiqul , Rahman Hasan Zahidur , Anwarullah AKM
Published: November 2013

A 40 years old man presented with progressive weakness and distal paraesthesia of limbs with difficulty in walking for last seven years. As the patient was not investigated thoroughly, a diagnostic dilemma was persisted. This patient went abroad & investigated thoroughly and yet not reached to a confirm diagnosis. Subsequently this patient reported to us and diagnosed it to be a case of Idiopathic Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) responded to oral steroid therapy. After follow-up, this patient showed marked improvement. So diagnostic dilemma that persisted with such a patient that showed improvement with treatment and a challenge to a treatable condition had encouraged us to report the case. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17185 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 132-140
Verifiable Hypotheses for Thymosin β4-Dependent and -Independent Angiogenic Induction of Trichinella spiralis-Triggered Nurse Cell Formation
Authors: Ock Mee , Cha Hee-Jae , Choi Yung
Published: December 2013

Trichinella spiralis has been reported to induce angiogenesis for nutrient supply and waste disposal by the induction of the angiogenic molecule vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) during nurse cell formation. However, the action mechanism to induce VEGF in nurse cells by T. spiralis is not known. Hypoxia in nurse cells was suggested as a possible mechanism; however, the presence of hypoxic conditions in infected muscle or nurse cells and whether hypoxia indeed induces the expression of VEGF and subsequent angiogenesis in the infected muscle are both a matter of debate. Our recent studies have shown that thymosin β4, a potent VEGF inducing protein, is expressed in the very early stages of T. spiralis muscle infection suggesting the induction of VEGF in early stage nurse cells. Nevertheless, we now show that hypoxic conditions were not detected in any nurse cell stage but were detected only in the accumulated inflammatory cells. These studies propose that induction of angiogenesis by VEGF in T. spiralis-infected nurse cells was mediated by thymosin β4 and is unrelated to hypoxic conditions.
Influence of Glutamic Acid on the Properties of Poly(xylitol glutamate sebacate) Bioelastomer
Authors: Dong Weifu , Li Ting , Xiang Shuangfei , Ma Piming , Chen Mingqing
Published: December 2013

In order to further improve the biocompatibility of xylitol based poly(xylitol sebacate) (PXS) bioelastomer, a novel kind of amino acid based poly(xylitol glutamate sebacate) (PXGS) has been successfully prepared in this work by melt polycondensation of xylitol, N-Boc glutamic acid and sebacic acid. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results indicated the glass-transition temperatures could be decreased by feeding N-Boc glutamic acid. In comparison to PXS, PXGS exhibited comparable tensile strength and much higher elongation at break at the same ratio of acid/xylitol. The introduction of glutamic acid increased the hydrophilicity and in vitro degradation rate of the bioelastomer. It was found that PXGS exhibited excellent properties, such as tensile properties, biodegradability and hydrophilicity, which could be easily tuned by altering the feeding monomer ratios. The amino groups in the PXGS polyester side chains are readily functionalized, thus the biomelastomers can be considered as potential biomaterials for biomedical application.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Urban Encroachment on Cropland and Its Impacts on Potential Agricultural Productivity in China
Authors: Cai Hongyan , Yang Xiaohuan , Xu Xinliang
Published: December 2013

Rapid urbanization and population growth in China have raised great concerns regarding food security caused by the loss of limited cultivated land. In this study, we used remotely sensed data and an agricultural productivity estimation model to characterize the spatiotemporal patterns of the conversion of cropland into urban land and quantify its impacts on agricultural productivity potential during China’s rapid urbanization period, from 1990 to 2010. The results show that urban development has transformed approximately 4.18 Mha, or 2.26%, of the total cropland in China. From 1990 to 2000, approximately 1.50 Mha of cropland was developed, while roughly 1.8 times this amount (2.68 Mha) was converted over the period of 2000 to 2010. Most of the conversion is located in the central and eastern coastal provinces and is mainly concentrated on the periphery of the major urban areas. The transformation has, consequently, caused a 71.45 Tg, or 2.65%, loss of potential light-temperature agricultural productivity (PLTAP); losses were 24.33 Tg in the first decade of the study and 47.11 Tg in the second. At the provincial scale, the largest percentages of PLTAP loss are mainly concentrated in the developed provinces on the eastern coast, such as Shanghai, Beijing, Zhejiang, Tianjin, and Jiangsu. Considering that these areas can accommodate more people and produce higher economic output on unit area of built-up land and, yet, scarce land that can be reclaimed, this study suggests that the dynamic balance of total farmland policy in China should be varied provincially according to the major function of the province. The policy adjustment will help maximize the utilization efficiency of land.
Differences in Coagulation between Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Brophy Donald F. , Carl Daniel E. , Mohammed Bassem M. , Song Jingmei , Martin Erika J. , Bostic Jessica L. , Gehr Todd W.B.
Published: December 2013

Background

End-stage renal disease patients have significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but little is known about differences in coagulation profiles between patients on hemodialysis (HD) and on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Given their long-term exposure to glucose-based dialysate, patients on PD can experience metabolic derangements. Theoretically, that exposure should create a more prothrombotic environment than occurs in HD patients. The objective of the present study was to quantify potential differences in baseline coagulation between PD and HD patients.

Methods

Our single-center cross-sectional study at a large academic health science center enrolled 50 age-, race-, and sex-matched subjects (10 control subjects, 20 HD patients, and 20 PD patients). Measurements included platelet function, platelet receptor distribution, and coagulation dynamics by thromboelastography and Hemodyne hemostasis assay (Hemodyne, Richmond, VA, USA).

Results

Compared with healthy control subjects, patients on both forms of dialysis showed prothrombotic coagulation protein profiles. The tissue-factor pathway was markedly elevated in both groups, but PD was associated with significantly greater concentrations of tissue factor ( p = 0.0056) and tissue-factor pathway inhibitor ( p = 0.0138). Similarly, compared with patients receiving HD, patients on PD had greater concentrations of fibrinogen ( p = 0.0325), which corresponded with platelet hyperfunction as measured by platelet contractile force and clot elastic modulus ( p = 0.003 and 0.017 respectively, compared with values in HD patients). Platelet receptor distribution was similar between the groups.

Conclusions

Compared with patients on HD, patients on PD appear to have a more prothrombotic profile. The clinical relevance of these findings needs to be studied in a prospective manner.
High Glucose Concentrations in Peritoneal Dialysate are Associated with All-Cause and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Wen Yueqiang , Guo Qunying , Yang Xiao , Wu Xianfeng , Feng Shaozhen , Tan Jiaqing , Xu Ricong , Yu Xueqing
Published: December 2013

Background

The effect of high peritoneal dialysate glucose concentration (PDGC) on all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is unclear.

Objective

Our study aimed to investigate the effect of high PDGC on all-cause and CVD mortality in continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD) patients.

Methods

The study enrolled 716 patients newly initiated on CAPD therapy between January 2006 and December 2010. We allocated the patients to low (<1.56%), medium (≥1.56% to <1.74%), and high (≥1.74%) average PDGC groups according to the tertile of average PDGC in the first 6 months after PD initiation. Cox regression and ordinal logistic regression were used to analyze determinants of mortality and of PDGC use respectively.

Results

Mean follow-up in the study cohort was 31 ± 15 months. The all-cause mortality was 4.7 events per 100 patient-years, and the leading cause of death was CVD. Patients with a higher PDGC had significantly higher cumulative rates of all-cause (log-rank p < 0.001) and CVD mortality (log-rank p < 0.001). In Cox regression analysis, high PDGC independently predicted higher all-cause (hazard ratio: 2.63; p = 0.004) and CVD mortality (hazard ratio: 2.78; p = 0.01). Compared with a lower PDGC, a higher PDGC was significantly associated with older age [odds ratio (OR): 1.02; p < 0.001], low residual renal function (OR: 0.91; p < 0.001), and high dialysate-to-plasma ratio of creatinine (OR: 28.61; p < 0.001) in ordinal logistic regression.

Conclusions

Higher PDGC is associated with higher all-cause and CVD mortality in CAPD patients.
Clinical Features of Patients with Morphea and the Pansclerotic Subtype: A Cross-sectional Study from the Morphea in Adults and Children Cohort
Authors: Kim Andrew , Marinkovich Nicholas , Vasquez Rebecca , Jacobe Heidi T.
Published: December 2013

Objective.

Pansclerotic morphea is a poorly described form of morphea with little information on prevalence, demographics, and clinical features. Classification criteria for this subtype varies and the distinction from other forms of morphea, such as extensive generalized morphea and pansclerotic morphea, is not always clear. The purpose of our study was to clarify classification criteria for pansclerotic morphea by identifying its prevalence in the morphea in adults and children (MAC) cohort and describing its demographic and clinical features as compared with generalized morphea.

Methods.

Patients who met predefined criteria for generalized and pansclerotic morphea were identified using a modified Laxer and Zulian classification system. Baseline demographic and clinical features of the patients were compiled and then analyzed for traits characteristic of pansclerotic morphea versus those of generalized morphea. One hundred and thirteen patients met the criteria for inclusion: pansclerotic (n = 13) and generalized morphea type (n = 100).

Results.

Patients with pansclerotic morphea were more frequently male (46.2% vs 6%; p < 0.0001); had a shorter time to diagnosis (mean difference of 10.4 mos; 95% CI: 0.8–19.9 mos; p = 0.0332); higher rates of functional impairment (61.5% vs 16%; p = 0.0046); higher rates of deep involvement (61.5% vs 17%; p = 0.004); and higher average Rodnan Skin Score (mean difference of 10.8 points; 95% CI: 5–16.6; p = 0.0017), Localized Scleroderma Skin Damage Index (mean difference 28.3; 95% CI: 9–47.6; p = 0.009), and Physician Global Assessment of Disease Damage scores (mean difference 25.1; 95% CI: 0.3–50; p = 0.048).

Conclusion.

Our results suggest demographic and clinical features are sufficient to define the pansclerotic subtype as they represent a distinct clinical phenotype with a more rapidly progressive and severe course commonly accompanied by disability. Presence of features of the pansclerotic phenotype should alert practitioners to the possibility of significant morbidity and the need for early aggressive treatment.
Associations of Smoking and Alcohol Consumption with Disease Activity and Functional Status in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Lu Bing , Rho Young Hee , Cui Jing , Iannaccone Christine K. , Frits Michelle L. , Karlson Elizabeth W. , Shadick Nancy A.
Published: December 2013

Objective.

To investigate the associations of smoking and alcohol consumption with disease activity and functional status in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

We conducted a prospective study consisting of 662 patients with RA who were followed up to 7 years from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Rheumatoid Arthritis Sequential Study. Smoking and alcohol consumption were assessed through yearly questionnaires. The disease activity and functional status were measured annually by the Disease Activity Score examined in 28 commonly affected joints using C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP3) and the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ). Linear mixed models were developed to assess the longitudinal effects of smoking and alcohol consumption on DAS28-CRP3 and MHAQ after adjustment for potential confounders. The HLA-DRB1 shared epitope (HLA-SE) by smoking and alcohol interactions were also evaluated in the analysis.

Results.

The median followup time of the cohort was 4 years. Current smoking was not associated with DAS28-CRP3 in our study, but was associated with a higher MHAQ than nonsmokers with seropositive RA (p = 0.05). Alcohol consumption showed an approximate J-shaped relationship with MHAQ, with the minima occurring at 5.1–10.0 g/day. Compared to no alcohol use, alcohol consumption of 5.1–10.0 g/day was associated with a significant decrease of MHAQ (p = 0.02). When stratified by HLA-SE, the effect of alcohol consumption appeared to be stronger in HLA-SE–positive RA than HLA-SE–negative RA.

Conclusion.

We found that current smoking was associated with a worse functional status, while moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a better functional status in RA. Replications of these findings in other prospective studies are needed.
Changes in Body Mass Index in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treated with Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors
Authors: Shafferman Ashley , Fontaine Kevin R. , Cron Randy Q. , Beukelman Timothy
Published: December 2013

Objective.

To evaluate changes in body mass index (BMI) among cohorts of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with and without tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor therapy.

Methods.

We performed a retrospective chart review of children with JIA who newly initiated TNF inhibitor therapy and had at least 1 year of subsequent followup (TNF cohort). We also included children with JIA and at least 1 year of followup without any TNF inhibitor therapy (comparator cohort). Children with systemic arthritis were excluded. Age and sex specific BMI z-scores and their corresponding categories (normal, overweight, obese) were determined. We compared changes from a baseline visit to the last followup visit using t-test for BMI z-scores and chi square and Kruskal-Wallis tests for BMI categories.

Results.

The TNF cohort had 167 patients; the comparator cohort had 37. The median study followup was 2.8 and 2.2 years, respectively. The cohorts had similar age, sex, race, weight, and height distributions. The TNF cohort had a statistically significant increase in BMI z-score from baseline (+0.15; p = 0.02) that was not significantly different from the increase (+0.09) observed in the comparator cohort (p = 0.5). There was no significant change in the proportions of overweight and obese children in the TNF cohort compared to baseline (p = 0.6) or compared to the change in the comparator cohort (p = 0.2).

Conclusion.

Over more than 2 years of followup, we did not observe a significant increase in BMI among children with JIA receiving TNF inhibitor compared to those not receiving it.