bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycemic Control in Simultaneous Islet-Kidney Versus Pancreas-Kidney Transplantation in Type 1 Diabetes: A Prospective 13-Year Follow-up
Authors: Lehmann Roger , Graziano Jessica , Brockmann Jens , Pfammatter Thomas , Kron Philipp , de Rougemont Olivier , Mueller Thomas , Zuellig Richard A. , Spinas Giatgen A. , Gerber Philipp A.
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVE

In patients with type 1 diabetes and end-stage renal disease, combined transplantation of a kidney together with a pancreas or isolated pancreatic islets are options to improve glycemic control. The aim of this study was to compare their long-term outcome with regard to metabolic control and surgical complication rate, as well as function of the transplanted kidney.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study in consecutive patients receiving either a pancreas or islet transplant simultaneously with or after kidney transplantation (simultaneous pancreas-kidney [SPK]/pancreas-after-kidney [PAK] or simultaneous islet-kidney [SIK]/islet-after-kidney [IAK] transplantation).

RESULTS

Ninety-four patients who had undergone SPK/PAK transplantation were compared with 38 patients who had undergone SIK/IAK transplantation over a period of up to 13 years. HbA1c levels declined from 7.8 ± 1.3% (62 ± 14 mmol/mol) to 5.9 ± 1.1% (41 ± 12 mmol/mol), and from 8.0 ± 1.3% (64 ± 14 mmol/mol) to 6.5 ± 1.1% (48 ± 12 mmol/mol), respectively, in the SPK/PAK and SIK/IAK groups (P < 0.001 for both) and remained stable during follow-up, despite a reduction in the rate of severe hypoglycemia by >90%. The 5-year insulin independence rate was higher in the SPK/PAK group (73.6 vs. 9.3% in the SIK/IAK group), as was the rate of relaparotomy after transplantation (41.5 vs. 10.5% in the SIK/IAK group). There was no difference in the rate of kidney function decline.

CONCLUSIONS

During a long-term follow-up, SPK/PAK transplantation as well as SIK/IAK transplantation resulted in a sustained improvement of glycemic control with a slightly higher glycated hemoglobin level in the SIK/IAK group. While insulin independence is more common in whole-organ pancreas recipients, islet transplantation can be conducted with a much lower surgical complication rate and no difference in kidney function decline.
Regional Cerebral Hemodynamic Response to Incremental Exercise Is Blunted in Poorly Controlled Patients With Uncomplicated Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Tagougui Semah , Fontaine Pierre , Leclair Erwan , Aucouturier Julien , Matran Régis , Oussaidene Kahina , Descatoire Aurélien , Prieur Fabrice , Mucci Patrick , Vambergue Anne , Baquet Georges , Heyman Elsa
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVE

Cerebral vasoreactivity to pharmacologically induced hypercapnia is impaired in poorly controlled patients with type 1 diabetes but otherwise free from microangiopathy. However, whether this response is also compromised during exercise, a daily-life physiological condition challenging regional cerebral hemodynamics, is unknown. We aimed to investigate prefrontal cortex hemodynamics during incremental maximal exercise in patients with uncomplicated type 1 diabetes, taking into account long-term glycemic control as well as exercise- and diabetes-influenced vasoactive stimuli.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Two groups of patients (type 1 diabetes with adequate glycemic control [T1D-A], n = 8, HbA1c 6.8 ± 0.7% [51 ± 7.7 mmol/mol]; type 1 diabetes with inadequate glycemic control [T1D-I], n = 10, HbA1c 9.0 ± 0.7% [75 ± 7.7 mmol/mol]) were compared with 18 healthy control subjects (CON-A and CON-I) matched for physical activity and body composition. Throughout exercise, near-infrared spectroscopy allowed investigation of changes in oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb), deoxyhemoglobin (HHb), and total hemoglobin (THb) in the prefrontal cortex. Venous and arterialized capillary blood was sampled during exercise to assess for factors that may alter prefrontal cortex hemodynamics and oxygenation.

RESULTS

No differences were observed between T1D-A and CON-A, but VO2max was impaired (P < 0.05) and cerebral blood volume (THb) increase blunted (P < 0.05) in T1D-I compared with CON-I. Nonetheless, O2Hb appeared unaltered in T1D-I probably partly due to blunting of simultaneous neuronal oxygen extraction (i.e., a lower HHb increase; P < 0.05). There were no intergroup differences in arterial oxygen content, Paco2, pH, [K+], and free insulin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Maximal exercise highlights subtle disorders of both hemodynamics and neuronal oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex of poorly controlled patients with type 1 diabetes. These findings may warn clinicians of brain endothelial dysfunction occurring even before overt microangiopathy during exercise.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Insulin Supplementation for Correction of Bedtime Hyperglycemia in Hospitalized Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vellanki Priyathama , Bean Rachel , Oyedokun Festus A. , Pasquel Francisco J. , Smiley Dawn , Farrokhi Farnoosh , Newton Christopher , Peng Limin , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVE

Clinical guidelines recommend point-of-care glucose testing and the use of supplemental doses of rapid-acting insulin before meals and at bedtime for correction of hyperglycemia. The efficacy and safety of this recommendation, however, have not been tested in the hospital setting.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this open-label, randomized controlled trial, 206 general medicine and surgery patients with type 2 diabetes treated with a basal-bolus regimen were randomized to receive either supplemental insulin (n = 106) at bedtime for blood glucose (BG) >7.8 mmol/L or no supplemental insulin (n = 100) except for BG >19.4 mmol/L. Point-of-care testing was performed before meals, at bedtime, and at 3:00 a.m. The primary outcome was the difference in fasting BG. In addition to the intention-to-treat analysis, an as-treated analysis was performed where the primary outcome was analyzed for only the bedtime BG levels between 7.8 and 19.4 mmol/L.

RESULTS

There were no differences in mean fasting BG for the intention-to-treat (8.8 ± 2.4 vs. 8.6 ± 2.2 mmol/L, P = 0.76) and as-treated (8.9 ± 2.4 vs. 8.8 ± 2.4 mmol/L, P = 0.92) analyses. Only 66% of patients in the supplement and 8% in the no supplement groups received bedtime supplemental insulin. Hypoglycemia (BG <3.9 mmol/L) did not differ between groups for either the intention-to-treat (30% vs. 26%, P = 0.50) or the as-treated (4% vs. 8%, P = 0.37) analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of insulin supplements for correction of bedtime hyperglycemia was not associated with an improvement in glycemic control. We conclude that routine use of bedtime insulin supplementation is not indicated for management of inpatients with type 2 diabetes.
Long-term Mortality Risk After Hyperglycemic Crisis Episodes in Geriatric Patients With Diabetes: A National Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Chien-Cheng , Weng Shih-Feng , Tsai Kang-Ting , Chen Ping-Jen , Lin Hung-Jung , Wang Jhi-Joung , Su Shih-Bin , Chou Willy , Guo How-Ran , Hsu Chien-Chin
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVE

Hyperglycemic crisis is one of the most serious diabetes-related complications. The increase in the prevalence of diabetes in the geriatric population leads to a large disease burden, but previous studies of geriatric hyperglycemic crisis were focused on acute hyperglycemic crisis episode (HCE). This study aimed to delineate the long-term mortality risk after HCE.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective national population-based cohort study reviewed, in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database, data from 13,551 geriatric patients with new-onset diabetes between 2000 and 2002, including 4,517 with HCE (case subjects) (ICD-9 code 250.1 or 250.2) and 9,034 without HCE (control subjects). The groups were compared and followed until 2011.

RESULTS

One thousand six hundred thirty-four (36.17%) case and 1,692 (18.73%) control subjects died (P < 0.0001) during follow-up. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of death were 2.82 times higher in case subjects (P < 0.0001). The mortality risk was highest in the first month (IRR 26.56; 95% CI 17.97–39.27) and remained higher until 4–6 years after the HCE (IRR 1.49; 95% CI 1.23–1.81). After adjustment for age, sex, selected comorbidities, and monthly income, the mortality hazard ratio was still 2.848 and 4.525 times higher in case subjects with one episode and two or more episodes of hyperglycemic crisis, respectively. Older age, male sex, renal disease, stroke, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and congestive heart failure were independent mortality predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with diabetes had a higher mortality risk after HCE during the first 6 years of follow-up. Referral for proper education, better access to medical care, effective communication with a health care provider, and control of comorbidities should be done immediately after HCE.
The Hidden Cost of Coaching: Intentional Training of Shot Adequacy Discrimination in Basketball Hampers Utilization of Informative Incidental Cues
Authors: Cadenas Ernesto Suárez , Cárdenas David , Delgado Guillermo Sánchez , Perales José C.
Published: February 2015

The goal was to identify the advantages and disadvantages of using intentional guidance to teach to discriminate between good and bad circumstances to shoot in basketball. A simulated shot-adequacy learning task was developed, in which participants were asked to decide, in each trial, whether the player in possession of the ball should shoot or not. After each decision, they received feedback on their response (determined by five cues: Opposition, Rebound, Balance, Alternative, and Distance). 65 naïve participants ( M age = 18.6yr., SD = 1.3) were divided into two groups. The Incidental group received no guiding instructions. The Intentional group was instructed to utilize four of the five cues. The Distance cue was kept incidental for both groups. Participants effectively incorporated the cues into their decisions. Guidance had a markedly different effect across cues. The Intentional group utilized Distance less efficiently than the Incidental group, i.e., intentional instructions on the other four cues nearly blocked the utilization of Distance.
Distribution of Plantar Pressures during Gait in Different Zones of the Foot in Healthy Children: The Effects of Laterality
Authors: Pi C. Mayolas , Arrese A. Legaz , Aparicio A. Villarroya , Masià J. Reverter
Published: February 2015

The objective was to determine whether gait is symmetric in healthy children 6–7 years of age and to assess the effects of laterality and the anatomical zone of the foot. 46 children were subjected to gait symmetry analysis in which the plantar and lateral pressures associated with kicking a ball, static balance, and dynamic support were measured. There were no significant differences in the average pressure exerted by the right and left feet based on the laterality of the child. Independent of each laterality test, a greater pressure on the right rearfoot was observed compared to the left rearfoot and on the left midfoot and forefoot compared to the right.
Small-scale cyclic deposition in the Frasnian (Upper Devonian) of the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland
Authors: Vierek Aleksandra
Published: February 2015

In sections exposing Frasnian limestones at five outcrops in the Holy Cross Mountains, five lithofacies (L1 to L5) that represent upper slope to basinal environments are identified. These lithofacies are characterised by dark-coloured micritic limestones-marly shale couplets with many light-coloured intercalations of fine- to coarse-grained limestones (= event beds). This lithofacies pattern characterises mostly low-energy domains punctuated by storm episodes. In addition, these upper-slope to basinal lithofacies are arranged into small-scale, coarsening-upward beds and cycles. The cycles are locally composed of fining/thinning-upward beds. The small-scale cycles have a calculated duration of 19 to 42 kyr. The differential thickness of beds and cycles within and between sections was probably caused by differential subsidence and local tectonics. Possible evidence of tectonic activity is also related to a difference in number of cycles recorded in the time-equivalent sections. The recognised cyclicity shows sea-level fluctuations and a few deepening episodes. Some of them are correlated with the Timan global eustatic events. However, local tectonics and episodic subsidence may have played a significant role in recording brief deepening pulses. Thus, low-amplitude sea-level changes were major factors in platform generation and evolution in the Frasnian of the Holy Cross Mountains modified by local, block-related subsidence.
Development Conditions of Polish Housing Market During Economic Crisis
Authors: Siemińska Ewa , Rymarzak Małgorzata
Published: February 2015

The main purpose of the paper is to present some of the mechanisms connected with the functioning of the Polish housing market, with due regard to demand and supply volatility as well as the changing financial conditions at the time of the global financial crisis of the first decade of the present century. Special attention is given to the financial and legal regulations concerning the housing market, which were introduced in response to the economic downturn.

On the basis of research conducted by the authors, as well as available reports and statistics for 2007-2013, the article will explore market phenomena (the size and pattern of demand, supply and prices on the housing market, and the changes they undergo) on the one hand, and the legal and financial regulatory changes directly affecting them, on the other. It will also study the effects of the implementation of the recommendations made by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) by banks in the wake of the global financial crisis. These cause banks to tighten their credit policies and, accordingly, have an impact on their loan portfolios. Information from secondary sources has also been used, notably from the Central Statistical Office (GUS), the KNF, the National Bank of Poland (NBP), as well as the Polish Bank Association (ZBP) and the Credit Information Bureau (BIK). Changes that occurred during the period of economic crisis in the availability of housing have also been examined.
The Dynamics of Real Estate Field of Value
Authors: Kuryj-Wysocka Oksana , Kuryj Jan , Wisniewski Radoslaw
Published: February 2015

Property is worth only as much as market participants are willing to pay for it - that is as much as the potential of the property. Determining the potential of real estate is an extremely difficult task, because certain properties can be viewed in different ways. A person’s attitude towards a given real estate finds reflection in the value of the property.

Accordingly, the value of a property appears only when there is a relation of value, such as when the property catches the buyer’s attention. This article raises important issues which determine the value of real estate. It reveals the value of property as a multidimensional category (spatial, economic etc.). The concept of value is characterized by peculiar dynamics; therefore, the value of a property is also characterized by dynamic traits.

In order to confirm the above thesis it is essential to isolate the most important factors that create the “field of value” and to examine how individual determinants influence the potential of the property.

The purpose of this study is to examine whether changes in the local real estate market influence the dynamics of property values. In order to achieve this objective, research was carried out on a local real estate market. As a result of the research, indicators characterizing the dynamics of value were determined.
Comparison of Machine Learning Methods for the Purpose Of Human Fall Detection
Authors: Strémy Maximilián , Peterková Andrea
Published: February 2015

According to several studies, the European population is rapidly aging far over last years. It is therefore important to ensure that aging population is able to live independently without the support of working-age population. In accordance with the studies, fall is the most dangerous and frequent accident in the everyday life of aging population. In our paper, we present a system to track the human fall by a visual detection, i.e. using no wearable equipment. For this purpose, we used a Kinect sensor, which provides the human body position in the Cartesian coordinates. It is possible to directly capture a human body because the Kinect sensor has a depth and also an infrared camera. The first step in our research was to detect postures and classify the fall accident. We experimented and compared the selected machine learning methods including Naive Bayes, decision trees and SVM method to compare the performance in recognizing the human postures (standing, sitting and lying). The highest classification accuracy of over 93.3% was achieved by the decision tree method.
The Characteristics of Beam String Systems
Authors: Kusendová Margaréta , Klas Tomáš
Published: February 2015

Large-span constructions are used more and more today in practice. While concrete and steel previously played a leading role, now constructions which use wood as a building material occur more often. This article deals with problems related to composite structure made from steel and wood by focusing on the connections of these structures in more detail. The main part of this work concentrates on the experimental verification of the resistance of four types of joints. It compares the results with Eurocode 5: design of timber structures.
Mathematical Modeling of Phenomenological Material Properties – Differential Operator Forms of Constitutive Equations
Authors: Minárová Mária
Published: February 2015

The paper deals with rheological models and creep and relaxation tests on matters which are represented by models. Three models based on two fundamental components (Hooke’s elastic and Newton’s viscous compounds) are performed. The models originated from several fundamental matters by their parallel or serial connections. The corresponding constitutive equations are derived. The behavior of the models under the creep and relaxation tests is observed and is expressed by corresponding stress - strain formulas and illustrated in the figures.
Quantitative Model for Economic Analyses of Information Security Investment in an Enterprise Information System
Authors: Bojanc Rok , Jerman-Blažič Borka
Published: February 2015

The paper presents a mathematical model for the optimal security-technology investment evaluation and decision-making processes based on the quantitative analysis of security risks and digital asset assessments in an enterprise. The model makes use of the quantitative analysis of different security measures that counteract individual risks by identifying the information system processes in an enterprise and the potential threats. The model comprises the target security levels for all identified business processes and the probability of a security accident together with the possible loss the enterprise may suffer. The selection of security technology is based on the efficiency of selected security measures. Economic metrics are applied for the efficiency assessment and comparative analysis of different protection technologies. Unlike the existing models for evaluation of the security investment, the proposed model allows direct comparison and quantitative assessment of different security measures. The model allows deep analyses and computations providing quantitative assessments of different options for investments, which translate into recommendations facilitating the selection of the best solution and the decision-making thereof. The model was tested using empirical examples with data from real business environment.
The CUCULLIINAE of Iran (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae)
Authors: Kazemi Ehsan , Rajaei Peyman
Published: February 2015

The subfamily Cucullinae is placed in family Noctuidae of Lepidoptera. 26 species and subspecies of two genus from Iran are listed. The distribution of species and subspecies are mentioned. Also, new faunal are added.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12041 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 22-24
Antibacterial effects of 4 methanol plant extracts (Lamiaceae) against 10 Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates
Authors: Paydar Maryam , Kariminik Ashraf
Published: February 2015

Antibiotic resistance has paved the way for replacing conventional medications with herbal therapies that supposedly have less side-effect. This research is an experimental study and a fundamental- functional one. The present study aimed to investigate the antibacterial effect of 4 plant extracts from Lamiaceae on 10 methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Methanol extracts were prepared by maceration method for 10 days in room temperature and then filtered with wathman paper No.1 and concentrated by rotary evaporator system. Different concentration of each extract were prepared in dimethyl sulfoxide: methanol (1:1 v/v) and bioassayed on 10 MRSA isolates by agar well diffusion method in Muller-Hinton agar medium. Plates were incubated in 37°C for 24 hours. After incubation period, zone of inhibition was measured in millimeter and the antibacterial effect of extracts were evaluated. According to antibiogram test, some of Staphylococcus aureus isolates were sensitive to the used extracts with different MIC.MIC values about all Staphylococcus aureus isolates about Zataria multiflora, Mentha longifolia, Ziziphor clinopodioide and Satureja hortensis were 15, 30, 30 and 15 mg/ml respectively. Because of regarding the fact that antibiotic resistance is growing, according to the acquired results we expect to be able to use plant extracts against Staphylococcus aureus resistant to meticillin in controling the infections or as preservatives in food sciences and in the next step separating of effective substances were suggested.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12045 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 51-54
Effect of nano zeolite and potassium permanganate on shelf life and quality of cut apple
Authors: Khosravi Fereshteh , Khosravi Mahdyeh , Pourseyedi Elnaz
Published: February 2015

In the present study the extended storage life of cut apples (Red Delicious) examined using nano zeolite particles and potassium permanganate. Titratable acidity, total soluble solids, pH and weight loss was measured .Visual observations of fruits during storage were investigated. The results showed that pH, soluble solids and fruit weight loss has increased during storage. The acidity of fruits stored with nano zeolite was less decreased as compared with potassium permanganate. The growth of moulds on preserved fruit with nano zeolite was much less after 10 days of storage as compared with potassium permanganate.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12050 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 55-60
Relationship between Social Support and Hope and Death Anxiety among the Old People of Tehran Omid Cultural Center
Authors: Amini chokami Asiye , Razavi Vida
Published: February 2015

Goal of the present research is to study relationship between social support and hope and death anxiety among old people of Omid Cultural Center located in District 13 of Tehran Municipality. The statistical population included all 1000 old people of Omid Cultural Center located in District 13 of Tehran Municipality and 240 people had the minimum education of high school degree and acceptable cognitive ability to respond to the questions. The sample size was 160 persons based on Morgan Table and considering potential drop of 160 persons and the sampling method was simple random method. Data analysis was conducted with Pearson Correlation method and Multivariate Regression Analysis. Results showed that there was direct relationship between social support and hope. Among the components of social support, family and friends had significant relationship with hope while social support of others didn’t have such relationship. Among the components of social support, only family had negative significant relationship with death anxiety.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12052 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 65-70
Review of stomach-related eye diseasesfrom traditional medicine perspective
Authors: Moeini Fatemeh , Jafarian Ali Akbar , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Taha Nadjmeh Ale , Yazdian Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2015

Ancient physicians deemedthe human body as a set of various interrelatedorgans. They believed that in dealing with patients a particular afflicted organ should not be consideredin isolation and treated exclusivelysincethe illnessmight occasionally originate from another organ’s dysfunction, which should be cured beforehand. Stomach is one of the organs that the physicians were very concerned about in the past. Since the first stage of digestion occurs in the stomach, gastric dysfunction will impair digestion and various organs of the body will not be well nourished and get sick afterwards. Among the organs affected by the stomach function is the eye the diseases of which may occur asnyctalopia, poor eyesight, visual hallucinations, and periorbital puffiness secondary to gastric dysfunction. This is a descriptive review of gastrointestinal procedures which can improve vision and treatsome eye diseases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12057 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 14-17
The Effects of Different Levels Chlorell Microalgae on Performance and Immune Response of Laying Hens Under Heat Stress Condition
Authors: Kor Nasroallah Moradi , Mohamadi Neda
Published: February 2015

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different levels microalgae Chlorell sp. on performance of laying hens under heat stress condition. A completely randomized design experiment, with 7 replicates and 6 treatments (9 birds per replicate) was carried out by allotting 378 white Lohman strain laying hens at 65 weeks of age. Six experimental treatments were continual addition of 0, 100, 200, 300,400 ppm microalgae Chlorell and 400 ppm toein to drinking warer were fed to laying hens for 9 weeks. Egg production, egg weight, egg mass output and feed intake were determined. Antibody production against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) also was measured. Data  were  analyzed  by  ANOVA  using  General  Linear Models procedure of  SAS software and comparison of means  were  compared  using  Duncan’s  multiple  range test. The results of this experiment showed that microalgae Chlorell had no effect on productive performance. Adding microalgae Chlorell to the drinking water improved immune response of laying hens and a more positive effect was observed when 400 ppm added to the water. It is concluded that the addition of microalgae Chlorell to the water drinking of laying hens improved immune response of laying hens.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i2.12058 International Journal of Life Sciences 9 (2) : 2015; 71-74
Body Mass Index Correlates with Age but Not with Sleep Duration in Nepalese Adults
Authors: Amatya M , Gorkhali Binu , Islam M N , Shrestha S
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: The problem of overweight and obesity has been recognized as public health problem worldwide. This study was done to measure incidence of overweight and obesity in Nepalese adult population and to explore correlation of body mass index (BMI) with sleep habits.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: BMI was calculated from measured height and weight; sleep habit information was gathered from participants' recall. Participants were grouped into 4 BMI classes and 3 sleep groups. Groups were compared for age, gender, and other variables by ANOVA and Chi square.  RESULTS: Of the total 241 participants, 72.2% (n=174) were male. Sleep duration was adequate for 80.2% participants; 37% were overweight, 5% were obese, and 1% were underweight. BMI had no correlation with sleep duration (p value 0.753) but strongly correlated with age (p value 0.000).  CONCLUSION: Incidence of overweight and obesity is high in the Nepalese adult population. BMI is not correlated to sleep duration in Nepalese population as reported for other countries.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12037  Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page: 15-18
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology: A Tool for Early Diagnosis of Cervical Lymph Node Lesions
Authors: Poudel Anuj , Jain S K
Published: February 2015

INTRODUCTION: Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is reliable and safe test used as a first line for evaluation of cervical lymphadenopathy (CL). It could differentiate the infective process from neoplastic one and avoids unnecessary surgeries. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate on the role of FNAC in the diagnosis of CL.  MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was conducted at the Department of Pathology, Lumbini Medical College, from May 2013 to October 2013. Fifty seven patients with enlarged cervical lymph nodes were selected. All patients were evaluated through detailed history and general physical examination. All FNAC procedures and the specimens were examined in the department of pathology. SPSS Version16 was used for data analysis.  RESULTS: Out of fifty seven cases, 37 were males and 20 were females, among the diagnostic outcome, 38.6% were having Reactive Hyperplasia (RH), while 36.8%were having tubercular (TB) lesions and 17.6% were having secondary metastasis.  CONCLUSION: FNAC is a very simple yet accurate technique for early diagnosis of CL.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jucms.v2i4.12064Journal of Universal College of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol.02 No.04 Issue 08Page : 29-32
Appreciative Inquiry and Evaluation – Getting to What Works
Authors: MacCoy David J.
Published: February 2015

Abstract: Appreciative Inquiry (Ai) is described as the cooperative search for the best in people, their organizations, and the world around them. This article describes how Ai has been applied to evaluation in ways that build upon strengths and generate support for improvements. An initial criticism of AI can be that it focuses only on positivity and fosters an unrealistic view of human experience. Contributing to tension with the AI process is a mistaken belief that negative phenomena must be ignored. However, evaluators using AI have found that its appreciative questions, reframing, and generative features set the stage for sound assessment of worth as well as offer potential for powerful solutions.
The Utility of a Realist Evaluation Approach in Implementing and Evaluating Health Equity Policy
Authors: Sridharan Sanjeev , Warren Tim
Published: February 2015

Abstract: This article discusses the utility of realist evaluation in influencing policies aimed at reducing health inequities and improving population health. Using an example of a National Demonstration program in Scotland, the article discusses how realist evaluation can help in several aspects of policy implementation: exploring “loss in translation” from policy aspirations to program design, interrogating the program design, developing a range of learnings from conducting the evaluation, and aligning the learning with policy priorities. Conditions under which evaluations can lead to positive influence on policy makers and future policies are discussed.
Template assisted synthesis of poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanorods and nanotubes: growth mechanism and corresponding band gap
Authors: Pourjafari Dena , Serrano Thelma , Kharissov Boris , Peña Yolanda , Gómez Idalia
Published: February 2015

Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) dense film and P3HT nanorods and nanotubes were synthesized on ITO and anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) substrate respectively. The growth mechanism of one-dimensional P3HT was investigated by changing the monomer concentration of 5 mM, 15 mM and 30 mM resulting in different polymer morphologies. By applying the transmittance spectra in the wavelength range of 1 100 to 400 nm, band gaps of 2.1, 1.9 and 1.55 eV were obtained for P3HT dense film, nanotubes and nanorods respectively. Tuning the band gap was achieved by changing the monomer concentration in electrochemical synthesis of P3HT on AAO substrate. Also the conductivity of 3.26 S · cm−1 for rod-shape P3HT and 1.06 S · cm−1 for dense film was calculated indicating better charge transport for nanorods.
Influence of MgO on the phase equilibria in the CuOx–FeOy–MgO–SiO2system in equilibrium with copper alloy – Part I: methodology and liquidus in the tridymite primary phase field
Authors: Crivits Tijl , Hayes Peter C. , Jak Evgueni
Published: February 2015

Phase equilibria in the ‘Cu2O’–‘Fe2O3’–MgO–SiO2system in equilibrium with copper alloy have been investigated at temperatures between 1 100 and 1 250 °C. A high-temperature equilibration/quenching/electron probe micro-analysis technique has been used to accurately determine the liquid and solid compositions. The standard methodology has been modified to accurately determine the phase equilibria and liquidus in this particular chemical system. Results on phase equilibria in the tridymite primary phase field, including the tridymite–pyroxene, tridymite–spinel and tridymite–pyroxene–spinel phase boundaries, are reported. The study demonstrates the validity of the method and provides new data on the effect of MgO on the tridymite liquidus temperatures. Increasing MgO concentration was found to decrease the tridymite liquidus.
Full-Scale Investigation of Differential Settlements beneath a Geosynthetic-Reinforced Soil Bridge Abutment
Authors: Kost Andrew D. , Filz George M. , Cousins Tommy , Brown Michael C.
Published: February 2015

Geosynthetic-reinforced soil bridge abutments can be constructed quickly and at lower cost than traditional alternatives. However, the lack of deep foundation elements contributes to a perceived vulnerability to differential settlements at the foundation level, either because of scour undermining or compressible soils beneath the foundation. A full-scale abutment was constructed, instrumented, and subjected to carefully controlled differential settlements. Data collected during construction indicate that the abutment adequately supported the surcharge load. Subsequent large differential settlements imposed at the foundation level resulted in small surface expression of differential settlements, redistribution of stresses within the reinforced fill, and adequate support at the level of the superstructure. However, the facing units appeared vulnerable to removal, potentially exposing the reinforced fill to erosion. Three measures to help mitigate this risk are discussed: pinning the concrete masonry units (CMUs) near the corner of the abutment, adding a protective wrap behind the CMUs to encapsulate the fill, and increasing the reinforcement length at the base of the abutment.
Case Study on Instrumenting and Testing Full-Scale Test Piles for Evaluating Setup Phenomenon
Authors: Haque M. Nafiul , Abu-Farsakh Murad Y. , Chen Qiming , Zhang Zhongjie
Published: February 2015

Over time, piles driven in cohesive soils usually experience a large increase in resistance, known as setup or freeze. Dynamic load tests (DLT) and static load tests (SLT) are usually performed to verify the axial resistances of piles at specific times after end of driving (EOD) and to quantify these resistances. An extensive field testing program was performed on full-scale instrumented precast prestressed concrete piles driven in cohesive soils at the Bayou Lacassine Bridge in Louisiana, to evaluate the pile setup phenomenon. The testing program included instrumenting two full-scale test piles with a network of vibrating wire strain gauges, pressure cells, and piezometers and instrumenting the surrounding soils with multilevel piezometers. Five SLTs and three DLTs were conducted on each test pile at different times after EOD to quantify the magnitude of setup. Measurements from the load tests on both piles confirmed that the pile setup after EOD followed a logarithmic rate with time. An increase in piles’ total resistances (or setup) of 1.60 to 1.77 times the EOD resistances was observed after the final restrikes. Piezometer data demonstrated a close relationship between the dissipation of excess pore water pressures that were generated during pile driving, following EOD, and pile setup. The load transfer curves derived from the strain gauge measurements were used to separate the side and tip resistance profiles from the total resistance. Piezometers installed in the ground showed that the influence zone, caused by pile driving, extends beyond the 3B distance (B = pile width).
Fröhlich Theory-Based Approach for Analysis of Stress Distribution in a Layered System
Authors: Bianchini Alessandra
Published: February 2015

The California bearing ratio (CBR) procedure for the design of airfield flexible pavements was originally developed in the 1940s for supporting new heavy bombers and reviewed in the 1970s to allow handling multiwheel tire groups. In view of an active debate at the International Civil Aviation Organization level on further adjustments to the design procedure, a U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) research team reformulated the original CBR procedure. The new CBR design procedure was redefined with the introduction of Fröhlich's theory for computing the pavement thickness and validated through full-scale testing. This study evaluated the influence of each layer in the stress distribution with the final objective of recommending specific values of the Fröhlich stress concentration factor. The data for this investigation were collected during full-scale testing at the ERDC in 2008. The analysis allowed identification of several influencing factors in the stress distribution for computing the stress acting at the top of the subgrade. Such factors included the subbase and subgrade CBR, the thickness of the subbase layer, and the stress distribution represented by the respective n factor of the layer group. The linear regression confirmed the statistical importance of these variables in assessing stress distribution above the subgrade. This case study provided encouraging results for additional investigations on the stress distribution within a layered system with the objective of quantifying more accurately the stress acting at the top of the subgrade.
Seismic Performance of Geosynthetic-Encased Stone Columns
Authors: Guler Erol , Alexiew Dimiter , Abbaspour Aiyoub , Koc Mustafa
Published: February 2015

The geotextile-encased columns (GECs) foundation system for embankments on soft or problematic soils was introduced in 1994. The GECs consist of compacted granular fill similar to common stone columns, but with a main decisive difference: GECs are confined in a high-strength woven geotextile cylinder (encasement). Consequently, they work properly even in extremely soft soils. Granular columns under compressive loads experience different failure modes, such as bulging, general shear failure, and sliding. However, the most common failure mode for stone columns in soft clays is bulging. With the help of GECs, the bulging failure can be prevented. The risk of bulging is even higher for earthquake loading conditions. A vast amount of numerical, analytical, and experimental research has been done to study different aspects of GEC's behavior. Despite this available literature from several researchers, there is not much research, numerically or experimentally, about the seismic behavior of GECs. To analyze the effect of earthquakes on stone columns and to determine how the presence of GECs improves the soil behavior, three-dimensional finite element analysis was used. The results show that the encapsulation of the stone column by a geosynthetic reinforcement (i.e., instead of installing ordinary stone columns, using geosynthetic-encapsulated columns) helps with the integrity of the column and also improves the system behavior under earthquake loading conditions.
Investigation of Geogrid-Reinforced Railroad Ballast Behavior Using Large-Scale Triaxial Testing and Discrete Element Modeling
Authors: Mishra Debakanta , Qian Yu , Kazmee Hasan , Tutumluer Erol
Published: February 2015

Geogrids are well known for improving the performance of unbound aggregate layers in transportation applications by providing confinement and restraining movement through interlock between individual aggregate particles and geogrid apertures. Geogrid reinforcement offers an effective remedial measure when railroad track structures are susceptible to track geometry defects resulting from excessive movement and particle reorientation within the ballast layer. This paper presents findings from an ongoing research study at the University of Illinois aimed at quantifying the effects of geogrid reinforcement on the shear strength behavior of railroad ballast. The effects of two geogrid types on ballast shear strength were evaluated through laboratory testing and numerical modeling. An imaging-based discrete element method (DEM) modeling approach was used to identify the optimal position for geogrid reinforcement to achieve the maximum shear strength gain in cylindrical triaxial specimens. Geogrids were installed at five depths within the cylindrical specimen and tested for shear strength properties with a large-scale triaxial test setup to evaluate the effectiveness of both geogrid aperture shape and reinforcement depth. Placing two layers of geogrids in the middle of the specimen was found to result in the maximum shear strength gain. Such placement of the geogrid ensured the intersection of the shear failure plane with the reinforcement layer, ultimately leading to significant shear strength gains. The DEM simulations were observed to capture accurately the ballast shear strength behavior with and without geogrid reinforcement.
Influence of three alkalizing agents on some functional properties of cassava starch modified using epichlorohydrin
Authors: Daramola B , Bamidele EA
Published: February 2015

Influence of three alkalizing agents namely, potassium hydroxide (KOH) , ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), and dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) during modification as modification facilitator on some functional properties of cassava starch modified using epichlorohydrin (EPI) at room temperature was studied. Assessment of the principal functional property; pasting properties and associated pasting indices of technological importance, notably peak viscosity and set back viscosity. The low peak viscosity (RVU) of the cassava EPI-modified starch ranged from 119.67-178.17; 128.50-161.17 for samples alkalized using KOH and DMSO respectively in comparison to the high peak viscosity (RVU) of the native starch. NH4OH was less effective alkalizing agent under the conditions used in this study. Cassava- EPI modified starch showed improved paste stability expressed in breakdown viscosity (RVU) values of 22.08-48.75 and 37.92-55.58 for KOH and DMSO alkalized samples respectively. Evaluation of other functional properties such as swelling power, apparent viscosity and paste clarity of the cassava-EPI modified starch showed alkaline-type dependent cross linkage activity of EPI. Assessment of all the functional properties of starch accomplished under the conditions employed in this study revealed that irrespective of concentration of EPI added, activity of alkalizing reagents is in the order: KOH>DMSO>NH4OH. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.21997 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 63-68, 2014
Use of 15n labelled urea to quantify nitrogen recovery studies and effect of salinity on rice
Authors: Mondol MN , Chamon AS , Hood RC , Blum WEH
Published: February 2015

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of salinity, and fertilisation on wetland rice production. It was a factorial design with four levels of salinity and three levels of fertilisation. Rice plants were grown in wetland system under greenhouse conditions. Fertiliser treatments were imposed at planting. Following germination salinity treatments were imposed. Plants and soils were sampled 10 weeks after planting. Plant dry weight increased with increasing inorganic fertiliser application and decreased with increasing salinity. Total shoot N increased with increasing inorganic fertiliser application but was not affected by salinity, however total root N increased with increasing inorganic fertiliser addition and decreased with increasing level of salinity (0, 50 and 100 ppm). Plant dry weight decreased with increasing salinity. Plant dry weight and N contents in shoot and root were significantly higher in all inorganic fertiliser treatments compared to the control treatments. % Ndff was in the range of 30-50 % and increased with increasing fertiliser application and salinity. Fertiliser use efficiency was in the range of 67.87-72.8 % in the inorganic fertiliser treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.21998 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 69-78, 2014
Synthesis of sec.-undecyl and sec.-dodecyl phenols as valuable intermediates of non-ionic surfactants
Authors: Saha Dipti , Ashaduzzaman Md , Sarker Mithun , Saha Partha , Siddiqui Tahmina
Published: February 2015

The reaction of phenol with undecan-1-ol and dodecan-1-ol respectively was investigated in the presence of p-toluenesulphonic acid to get the corresponding alkylated phenols. The effects of the variation of different reaction parameters viz. temperature, molar ratio of phenol to undecan-1-ol and dodecan-1-ol respectively, amount of p-toluenesulphonic acid, addition of time and stirring of time on the reaction were studied and optimum conditions of the reaction were determined. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22001 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 85-88, 2014
Differentially expressed plasma protein fractions in workers of dyeing unit at a textile industry and comparable controls
Authors: Roohi N , Shaukat A , Iqbal MA , Mumtaz T
Published: February 2015

Workers of textile industry are exposed to different hazardous chemicals that cause adverse effects on their health. As variations in plasma proteins are the best indicators of health status of the subjects, hence, we compared plasma protein fractions, resolved by SDS-PAGE of textile dyeing industry workers (n=30) with control subjects (n=30). Proteins were quantified by Total Lab Quant software and analyzed, statistically, by Student t-test. Thirteen protein fractions were detected ranging 250-17kDa. A significant increase in 132 and 53kDa fractions, whereas, a significant decrement in 87 and 66kDa fractions with a highly significant reduction in 112kDa fraction was observed. However, 250, 224, 43, 23, 19 and 17kDa protein fractions did not vary considerably. As some proteins circulate only during particular physiological or pathological circumstances and may serve as biomarkers of anomalies, the altered expressions of these biomolecules observed in textile dyeing industry workers may be strong predictors of different ailments. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22002 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 89-94, 2014
Anaerobic digestion of tannery solid waste by mixing with different substrates
Authors: Basak SR , Rouf MA , Hossain MD , Islam MS , Rabeya T
Published: February 2015

The tannery solid waste (fleshing) was collected from Hazaribagh, Dhaka. It has been found that fleshing contains 82.57% volatile matter. Further characterization of fleshing showed that it contains low C/N ratio of 2.64 and high pH of 10.99. These characteristics were not suitable for using fleshing as a substrate for anaerobic digestion. The study has been carried out in different ratio of waste fleshing, domestic sewage and cow dung at total solid 6% concentration. In all the reactors fleshing and domestic sewage were mixed at 1:1 ratio. On the basis of the performance of the reactors it was evident that the reactor which contains 75% fleshing with domestic sewage and 25% cow dung showed optimum result. Under optimum condition volatile solids destruction 52%, specific gas production 0.476 L/g volatile solids feed and methane yield 73% were achieved. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v49i2.22006 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 49(2), 119-124, 2014