bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Accurate Identification of Food Insecurity Using Quality-Improvement Techniques
Authors: Burkhardt Mary Carol , Beck Andrew F. , Conway Patrick H. , Kahn Robert S. , Klein Melissa D.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Infants who live in households experiencing food insecurity are at risk for negative health and developmental outcomes. Despite large numbers of households within our population experiencing food insecurity, identification of household food insecurity during standard clinical care is rare. The objective of this study was to use quality-improvement methods to increase identification of household food insecurity by the second-year pediatric residents working in the Pediatric Primary Care Center from 1.9% to 15.0% within 6 months. A secondary aim was to increase the proportion of second-year pediatric residents identifying food insecurity.

METHODS:

A team was formed to identify key drivers thought to be critical to the process of identifying food insecurity during well-child care. This project addressed 5 key drivers and tested interventions based on these drivers over a 6-month period at a hospital-based primary care site that serves ∼15 000 children from underserved neighborhoods. Tests included implementing an evidence-based electronic screen for food insecurity, educational interventions to improve understanding of food insecurity, empowerment exercises targeting clinicians and families, and gaining buy-in and support from ancillary personnel.

RESULTS:

Implementation of these changes led to an increase in the identification rate of household food insecurity from 1.9% to 11.2% over the 6 months (P < .01). The proportion of residents identifying food insecurity increased from 37.5% to 91.9% (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Application of quality-improvement methods in a primary care clinic increased ability to effectively screen and positively identify households with food insecurity in this population.
Advances in operational flood forecasting in Scotland
Authors: Cranston Michael D. , Tavendale Amy C. W.
Published: January 2012

In recent years, significant investment has been made in the operational flood forecasting capabilities of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) through the continued development of its flood early warning system (Fews Scotland). Under the Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009, Sepa's current flood forecasting and warning responsibilities have now been formalised and strengthened, giving Sepa a statutory basis for all flood warning activities. Sepa is now committed to developing its flood forecasting capabilities in response to this legislative driver. This paper presents key flood forecasting initiatives commissioned by Sepa to meet this strategic need. These include an initiative to develop a joint hydrometeorological flood forecasting service in Scotland supported by a national distributed hydrological model for Scotland, the first operational implementation of a Delft3D-Flow model for coastal forecasting within the Delft-Fews environment on the Firth of Clyde, and a step-change in forecasting capabilities through rapid development of rainfall–runoff, routing and hydrodynamic modelling. These significant improvements enable delivery of an effective flood warning service that aims to reduce the impact of flooding from all sources.
Climatic niche divergence or conservatism? Environmental niches and range limits in ecologically similar damselflies
Authors: Wellenreuther Maren , Larson Keith W. , Svensson Erik I.
Published: January 2012

The factors that determine species' range limits are of central interest to biologists. One particularly interesting group comprises odonates (dragonflies and damselflies), which show large differences in secondary sexual traits and respond quickly to climatic factors, but often have minor interspecific niche differences, challenging models of niche‐based species coexistence. We quantified the environmental niches at two geographic scales to understand the ecological causes of northern range limits and the coexistence of two congeneric damselflies (Calopteryx splendensandC. virgo). Using environmental niche modeling, we quantified niche divergence first across the whole geographic range in Fennoscandia, and second only in the sympatric part of this range. We found evidence for interspecific divergence along the environmental axes of temperature and precipitation across the northern range in Fennoscandia, suggesting that adaptation to colder and wetter climate might have allowedC. virgoto expand farther north thanC. splendens. However, in the sympatric zone in southern Fennoscandia we found only negligible and nonsignificant niche differences. Minor niche differences in sympatry lead to frequent encounters and intense interspecific sexual interactions at the local scale of populations. Nevertheless, niche differences across Fennoscandia suggest that species differences in physiological tolerances limit range expansions northward, and that current and future climate could have large effects on the distributional ranges of these and ecologically similar insects.
Association of Returning to Work With Better Health in Working-Aged Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rueda Sergio , Chambers Lori , Wilson Mike , Mustard Cameron , Rourke Sean B. , Bayoumi Ahmed , Raboud Janet , Lavis John
Published: January 2012

Objectives. We systematically reviewed the literature on the impact of returning to work on health among working-aged adults.

Methods. We searched 6 electronic databases in 2005. We selected longitudinal studies that documented a transition from unemployment to employment and included a comparison group. Two reviewers independently appraised the retrieved literature for potential relevance and methodological quality.

Results. Eighteen studies met our inclusion criteria, including 1 randomized controlled trial. Fifteen studies revealed a beneficial effect of returning to work on health, either demonstrating a significant improvement in health after reemployment or a significant decline in health attributed to continued unemployment. We also found evidence for health selection, suggesting that poor health interferes with people’s ability to go back to work. Some evidence suggested that earlier reemployment may be associated with better health.

Conclusions. Beneficial health effects of returning to work have been documented in a variety of populations, times, and settings. Return-to-work programs may improve not only financial situations but also health.
Exploring Accounting Doctoral Program Decline: Variation and the Search for Antecedents
Authors: Fogarty Timothy J. , Holder Anthony D.
Published: January 2012

The inadequate supply of new terminally qualified accounting faculty poses a great concern for many accounting faculty and administrators. Although the general downward trajectory has been well observed, more specific information would offer potential insights about causes and continuation. This paper examines change in accounting doctoral student production in the U.S. since 1989 through the use of five-year moving averages. Aggregated on this basis, the downward movement predominates, notwithstanding the schools that began new programs or increased doctoral student production during this time. The results show that larger declines occurred for middle prestige schools, for larger universities, and for public schools. Schools that periodically successfully compete in M.B.A. program rankings also more likely have diminished the size of their accounting Ph.D. programs. Despite a recent increase in graduations, data on the population of current doctoral students suggest the continuation of the problems associated with the supply and demand imbalance that exists in this sector of the U.S. academy.
Choosing GLP-1 Receptor Agonists or DPP-4 Inhibitors: Weighing the Clinical Trial Evidence
Authors: Reid Timothy
Published: January 2012

IN BRIEF

Comparative trials show that there are important differences between and among the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors with respect to glycemic lowering, weight effects, and effects on systolic blood pressure and the lipid profile. Nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and dizziness are common with both of the available GLP-1 receptor agonists. Upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and headaches are common with the DPP-4 inhibitors. Ongoing safety evaluations should provide a clear picture regarding long-term safety.
Scientific Calculators and the Skill of Efficient Computation
Authors: Yasin Mohd Yusuf
Published: January 2012

Calculators are part and parcel of modern education. Involvement of science and engineering in different fields of knowledge is increasing with each bit of time is passed by, and they are playing a role in description and characterization of the delicate phenomena of nature arising day by day. These fields of knowledge and mathematics in particular, are influencing even those distant branches of knowledge, which were so far imagined to be free of mathematics. Even art is not free of mathematics and there exists mathematical art. Computations are getting lengthy and complex specially in design and analysis of engineering systems. Scientific calculators are handy tools. But an efficient computation is a skill that can be developed.Keywords: scientific calculators; calculator techniques; efficient computation; efficient use of calculators, computation skills; numerical techniquesDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4702  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 31-36
A Convenient route for the synthesis of antimicrobial 1, 3, 4- thiadiazole derivatives
Authors: Mishra AD
Published: January 2012

Thiosemicarbazide of 6-chloro-2- aminobenzothiazole on cyclization with different aromatic carboxylic acids in Phosphorus oxychloride provided the corresponding 2-aryl-5-(6’-chloro-1’,3’-benzothiazole-2-yl-amino)-1,3,4-thiadiazoles 4a-j. The compounds are characterized by elemental analysis, IR and 1H NMR spectral data. All the compounds are evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial activities against several fungal and bacterial strains and showed significant activities.Keywords: Aminobenzothiazole; 1, 3, 4- thiadiazole; antimicrobial; cyclizationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4766BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 17-22
A non–destructive compositional analysis of thin surface films formed on W–xTa alloys by angle resolved X–ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Bhattarai Jagadeesh
Published: January 2012

Synergistic effect of the simultaneous additions of tungsten and tantalum in the extremely high corrosion resistance properties of the spontaneously passivated sputter–deposited W–xTa alloys was investigated using a non-destructive angle resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (angle resolved XPS) techniques in this study. In-depth surface analyses of the thin passive films formed on the spontaneously passivated amorphous/nanocrystalline W–xTA alloys using angle resolved XPS analyses revealed that the high corrosion resistance of the alloys is mostly due to the formation of homogeneous passive double oxyhydroxide films consisting of Wox and Ta4+ cations with a small concentration gradients in–depth particularly after immersion between 20–168 h in 12 M HCl solution open to air at 30°C. Consequently, tantalum metal acts synergistically with tungsten in enhancing the spontaneous passivity as well as the high corrosion resistance of the sputter–deposited binary W–xTa alloys in 12 M HCl solution.Keywords: Sputter deposition; W–xTa alloys; 12 M HCl; Take-off angleDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4784BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 8-16
Asymmetric mass-loss from the white dwarf WD 0253+209 : Secret revealed
Authors: Aryal Binil
Published: January 2012

Dust structures around the white dwarf WD 0253+209 is studied in 100 and 60 micron infrared image. These images are received from Infrared Astronomical Satellite Survey (IRAS Survey). The post Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) emission of the white dwarf's precursors' wind and the ambient interstellar matter is studied. The distribution of the relative flux density is studied and analyzed in the context of the dust color temperature, mass loading trend and the amount of total mass deposited due the interaction in the interstellar medium. The twisted curved emission structure at 100 micron in the region of interest is probably due to the interaction between the ambient interstellar medium and the He-flashes of the parent planetary nebula of the central white dwarf WD 0253+209. The total mass of the filamentary arc is found to be ~ 5 solar masses, as predicted. The mass loss rate of the post AGB star goes up to 10-5 solar masses per year. It is concluded that the first He-flash occurred at least ~2500 years ago.Keywords: white dwarf; interstellar medium; flux density; interstellar dust; mass of the gasDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4806BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 1-7
Experimental investigation on anisotropic surface properties of crystalline silicon
Authors: Lamichhane Shobha Kanta
Published: January 2012

Anisotropic etching of silicon has been studied by wet potassium hydroxide (KOH) etchant with its variation of temperature and concentration. Results presented here are temperature dependent etch rate along the crystallographic orientations. The etching rate of the (111) surface family is of prime importance for microfabrication. However, the experimental values of the corresponding etch rate are often scattered and the etching mechanism of (111) remains unclear. Etching and activation energy are found to be consistently favorable with the thermal agitation for a given crystal plane. Study demonstrate that the contribution of microscopic activation energy that effectively controls the etching process. Such a strong anisotropy in KOH allows us a precious control of lateral dimensions of the silicon microstructure.Keywords: microfabrication; activation energy; concentration; anisotropy; crystal planeDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4828  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 59-66
Bottlenecks to product rate variation problem with batching
Authors: Khadka Shree Ram
Published: January 2012

The product rate variation problem with batching minimizes the variation in the rate at which different models of a common base product are produced on the assembly lines with the assumption of significant setup and arbitrary processing times for each copy of each model. Establishment of bottlenecks to the problem is important for the feasible and the optimal solution to the problem. In this paper, the lower and the upper bottlenecks to the problem are established. Moreover, small bottlenecks that lead to optimality to some instances are investigated.Keywords: Product rate variation problem; batching; sequencing problem; nonlinear integer programmingDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4876BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 53-58
Pseudo-spin Symmetry in Dirac-Four-Parameter Diatomic Problem Coupled with a Coulomb-like Tensor potential
Authors: Eshghi Mahdi
Published: January 2012

In this work, we use the parametric generalization of the Nikiforov-Uvarov method to obtain the relativistic bound state energy spectrum and the corresponding spinor wave-functions for four-parameter diatomic potential coupled with a Coulomb-like tensor under the condition of the pseudo-spin symmetry. Also, some numerical results have given.Keywords: Dirac equation; four-parameter diatomic potential; Coulomb-like tensorDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4879BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 23-30
A comparative study of Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) and Free Energy of Micellization of cationic surfactant and anionic surfactant in different composition of methanol-water mixed solvent media by conductometric method at 308.15 K
Authors: Shah Sujit Kumar , Niraula Tulsi Prasad , Bhattarai Ajaya , Chattarjee Sujit Kumar
Published: January 2012

Precise measurements on the specific conductivity of cationic surfactant (Dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide) and anionic surfactant (Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate) in methanol water mixed solvent media containing 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 volume fractions of methanol are reported at 308.15 K. Specific conductivities of Dodecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide and Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate increase with increase in concentration and decrease with increase in the volume fractions of methanol.  Critical micelle concentration (cmc) increases with increase in volume fraction of methanol in case of both surfactants. Free energy of micellization (ΔGºm) has been calculated. Increase in cmc with increase in volume fractions of methanol has been explained in terms of breaking of structure of water due to co-solvent effect.Keywords: Critical micelle concentration; methanol-water mixed solvent media; Specific conductivity; Dodecyltrimethylammonium Bromide; Sodiumdodecyl SulphateDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4883  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 37-45
Photo and electroluminescence of porous silicon layers
Authors: Haji-Ali E
Published: January 2012

Porous silicon layers were prepared by both chemical and electrochemical methods on n- and ptype Si substrates. In the former technique, light emission was obtained from p-type and n-type samples. It was found that intense light illumination during the preparation process was essential for PSi formation on n-type substrates.An efficient electrochemical cell with some useful features was designed for electrochemical etching of silicon. Various preparation parameters were studied and photoluminescence emissions ranging from dark red to light blue were obtained from PSi samples prepared on p-type substrates. N-type samples produced emissions ranging from dark red to orange-yellow. Electroluminescence of porous silicon samples showed that the color of the emission was the same as the photoluminescence color of the sample, and its intensity and duration depended on the current density passed through the sample. The effects of exposure of samples to air, storage in vacuum, and heat-treatment in air on luminescence intensity of the samples and preparation of patterned porous layers were also studied.Keywords: Porous silicon layers; photoluminescence; electroluminescenceDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4897  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 46-52
Molecular characterization of yohimbine hydrochloride using vibrational spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Joshi Bhawani Datt , Tandon Poonam , Jain Sudha
Published: January 2012

In this work, we have performed the extraction of yohimbine hydrochloride (C21H27ClN2O3) (YHCl). The optimized geometry, total energy, potential energy surface and vibrational wavenumbers of YHCl have been determined by using ab initio Hartree–Fock (HF) and density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP) method with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set. The calculated wavenumbers are scaled by a proper scaling factor. A selected number of vibrational assignments are provided for the observed Raman and IR spectra. Keywords: YHCl; vibrational spectroscopy; ESP; ab initio and DFT calculationsDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.4923   BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 73-80
Acoustoelectric effect in semiconductor superlattice
Authors: Alok Ujjwal , Kumar Manoj , Singh BK , Kumar Praveen
Published: January 2012

Acoustoelectric effect in semiconductor superlattice (SL) in the region ql >>1 has been studied. The equation of motion of the lattice has been transformed into a simple form which becomes identical with the dynamic equation for the wave amplitude in the theory of plasma turbulence. A dispersion relation has been derived from the acoustoelectric current J on the constant electric field E. It is noted that when the electric field is negative the current J rises, reaches a peak and falls off. On the other hand, when the electric field is positive the current decreases, reaches a peak and then rises. A similar observation has been noted for an acoustoelectric interaction in a multilayered structure resulting from the analysis of the Si/SiO2 structure.Keywords: acoustoelectric current; acoustomagnetothermal effect; quantum transparencyDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5013   BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 67-72
Thanks to reviewers of 2011
Authors: Adhikari Devendra
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5691BIBECHANA 8 (2012)
Thermodynamic and structural properties of Mg-Tl liquid alloy
Authors: Singh BP , Adhikari D , Jha IS , Kumar BC , Chaudhary SK , Jayaswal SK , Koirala RP
Published: January 2012

The concentration dependent asymmetry in mixing properties of Mg-Tl liquid alloys at 923 K has been investigated on the basis of regular associated solution model. The concentration of ApB type complex in a regular associated solution of Mg and Tl have been determined. We have then used the concentration of complex to calculate the free energy of mixing, enthalpy of mixing, entropy of mixing, activity, concentration fluctuations in long wavelength limit SCC(0) and the Warren Cowley short-range parameter 1 α .The analysis suggests that heterocoordination leading to the formation of chemical complex Mg2Tl is likely to exist in the melt. The analysis reveals that there is a tendency of unlike atom pairing (Mg-Tl) in Mg-Tl alloy whole range of concentration.Keywords: Mg-Tl alloy; microscopic structure; pairwise interaction energy; chemical short range orderDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5692BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 81-89
A Theoretical study of thermodynamic properties of Cd-Bi liquid alloy
Authors: Adhikari D
Published: January 2012

Flory’s model has been used for the study of thermodynamic properties of Cd-Bi liquid alloys. Free energy of mixing, heat of mixing, entropy of mixing and activity of Cd have been determined. All of these computed quantities have been found to be in a good agreement with observed values.Keywords: Flory’s model; thermodynamic properties; Cd-Bi liquid alloy; weakly interacting system; interaction energy parameter  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5693  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 90-95
Ovarian Histomorphology and Gonadial Cycle of Freshwater Garfish Xenentodon cancila (Hemilton-Buchanan) (Beloniformes:Belonidae)
Authors: Subba Bharat Raj , Meheta Satya Narayan
Published: January 2012

The histomorphology and gonadial cycle of a freshwater garfish Xenentoton cancila revealed that the ovaries of the fish pass through resting, early maturing advanced maturing, pre-spawning, spawning and spent phases within one year. The oogenetic activity starts in November and continues upto June(GSI=10.19)-July(GSI=11.38), when ovaries are full of yolky eggs. Only young oogonia and oocytes l appeared in September to October. The oocytes of l,ll,lll,lV and V stages were present during November to February. The oocytes Vl and Vll were seen dominated by ripe oocytes during June to late July when spawning takes place. Asychronism mode of oocyte development was recorded in X.cancila. Keywords: Xenentodon cancila; oocyte development; reproductive cycle; spawningDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5694  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 96-104
Physico-chemical parameters of Seepage stream at Kushaha area
Authors: Chhetry Damodar Thapa , Pal Joydeb
Published: January 2012

Physico-chemical parameters of the Seepage stream of Kushaha area were studied for two years from July, 2002-June, 2004, once in every month at regular intervals. The monthly data were pooled in seasonal value. The maximum air temperature was recorded in rainy season during first year study period (July, 2002 to June, 2003) but in the second year study period (July, 2003 to June 2004) it was maximum in summer season. Water temperature was maximum in summer and lowest in winter season. Transparency, PH, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity, total hardness, chloride were recorded maximum in winter season. Free carbondioxide, and biological oxygen demand was maximum in summer season. The minimum transparency, total alkalinity, total hardness and chloride were recorded in rainy season. Dissolved oxygen, and PH, were minimum in summer season. The minimum carbondioxide and BOD were recorded in winter season. Air temperature, water temperature, free carbondioxide, biological oxygen demand showed positive and significant correlation with each other. Similarly, transparency, PH, total alkalinity, total hardness, chloride, showed positive and significant correlation with each other. Dissolved oxygen showed positive and significant correlation with pH, total alkalinity, total hardness and chloride. Keywords: Physico- chemical parameters; seepage system DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5697 BIBECHANA 2012; 8: 105-115
Fractal Approach: Quantification of Seismicity in South Central Tibet
Authors: Paudyal Harihar , Roy PNS
Published: January 2012

The South Central Tibet (SCT) region is inferred to be an extensional regime since it is predominantly associated with normal faulting with E-W oriented horizontal tension axis representing extension in eastwest direction. In this paper the fractal analysis is carried out using the seismicity data (mb≥3.5) for last 47 years (1963-2009) in SCT to the north of Central Himalaya. The entire study area is bounded by 29o-31o N and 85o-90o E. The study escorted to the recognition of a clustering events in two consecutive fifty events window having low spatial fractal correlation dimension (Dc) value ranging from 0.3638 to 0.5451 during the period between 07.26.1998 to 03.23.2002. Relatively two lower Dc obtained prior to strong event. Spatial-temporal clustering of events during low Dc period actually specifies a highly stressed region, leading to increase of shear strain causing weak zone from where the rupture propagation may ultimately nucleate causing large earthquake. This type of clustering pattern study using the well constrained catalogue data for the SCT region, which has a record of high seismic activity for the entire last two decades, can assist to enhance the understanding and mitigation of earthquake hazard.Keywords: Fractal spatial; correlation dimension (Dc); clustering; seismicityDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5699  BIBECHANA 8 (2012) 116-126
Foundations of the Fredholm Alternative Theorem, Equicontinuous Operators and Completely Continuous Operators
Authors: Palei GK , Sah NP
Published: January 2012

The Fredholm Alternative Theorem gives the notion of bounded and continuous operator which makes a family F of elements of C[a, b] bounded and equicontinuous. A continuous operator of finite rank is completely continuous but every continuous operator is not completely continuous operator. Keywords: Arzela-Ascoli's theorem; completely continuous; equicontinuous and Fredholm alternative theorem DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5700 BIBECHANA 2012; 8: 127-130
Chemical analysis of fodder tree leaves found in Sunsari district, Nepal
Authors: Mandal TN , Gautam TP
Published: January 2012

Altogether 55 fodder trees were collected with their local information from Sunsari district, Nepal. Among them, the leaves of 19 fodder trees were analyzed for dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, N-free extract, total ash and mineral contents (K, Ca, and P). Regarding fodder quality, local information and chemical composition do not match for all plants. On the basis of chemical composition 12 fodder trees were recognized as good fodders. On the basis of both local information and chemical composition following trees were assessed as very good fodders: Artocarpus heterophyllus, Bauhinia variegata, Ficus cunia, F. glomerata and F. lacor. Keywords: Tree fodders; Farmers’ assessment; Proximate analysis; Nutrient contents DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bibechana.v8i0.5701 BIBECHANA 2012; 8: 131-138
Comparison between Allopurinol and Febuxostat in management of gout patients - a prospective study
Authors: Singal KK , Goyal S , Gupta P , Aggawal BK
Published: January 2012

Aim:To assesses the efficacy of a relatively new drug-Febuxostat in management of gout and its comparison with allopurinol. Method: A comparative study of both Allopurinol and Febuxostat was done on 100 patients of gout. Both were studied for efficacy. side effects and for gout flare up. Results: Primary efficacy end point (baseline values) - a serum urate concentration of less than 6.0mg per deciliter at the last three measurements was reached by 54 %( 27/50) of group A patients taking 80mgs of febuxostat and 25 %( 12/50) of group B patients taking allopurinol 300mgs per day (P<0.001) Secondary efficacy end point(follow up values)- At first visit( after 2 weeks of onset of study), the proportions of subjects with serum urate concentration of less than 6.0mg/dl was significantly higher in the group A receiving febuxostat than the group B receiving allopurinol(P<0.001)[Tableno-1]. Conclusion: Febuxostat, at a daily dose was more effective than allopurinol at the commonly used fixed daily dose of 300 mg in lowering serum urate. Results of side effects and gout flare up were similar in both groups. Key words: Allopurinol; febuxostat; uric acid; goutDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i4.7522 BJMS 2011; 10 (4): 257-259
Toxin Levels and Profiles in Microalgae from the North-Western Adriatic Sea—15 Years of Studies on Cultured Species
Authors: Pistocchi Rossella , Guerrini Franca , Pezzolesi Laura , Riccardi Manuela , Vanucci Silvana , Ciminiello Patrizia , Dell’Aversano Carmela , Forino Martino , Fattorusso Ernesto , Tartaglione Luciana , Milandri Anna , Pompei Marinella , Cangini Monica , Pigozzi Silvia , Riccardi Elena
Published: January 2012

The Northern Adriatic Sea is the area of the Mediterranean Sea where eutrophication and episodes related to harmful algae have occurred most frequently since the 1970s. In this area, which is highly exploited for mollusk farming, the first occurrence of human intoxication due to shellfish consumption occurred in 1989, nearly 10 years later than other countries in Europe and worldwide that had faced similar problems. Until 1997, Adriatic mollusks had been found to be contaminated mostly by diarrhetic shellfish poisoning toxins (i.e., okadaic acid and dinophysistoxins) that, along with paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins (i.e., saxitoxins), constitute the most common marine biotoxins. Only once, in 1994, a toxic outbreak was related to the occurrence of paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins in the Adriatic coastal waters. Moreover, in the past 15 years, the Adriatic Sea has been characterized by the presence of toxic or potentially toxic algae, not highly widespread outside Europe, such as species producing yessotoxins (i.e., Protoceratium reticulatum, Gonyaulax spinifera and Lingulodinium polyedrum), recurrent blooms of the potentially ichthyotoxic species Fibrocapsa japonica and, recently, by blooms of palytoxin-like producing species of the Ostreopsis genus. This review is aimed at integrating monitoring data on toxin spectra and levels in mussels farmed along the coast of the Emilia-Romagna region with laboratory studies performed on the species involved in the production of those toxins; toxicity studies on toxic or potentially toxic species that have recently appeared in this area are also reviewed. Overall, reviewed data are related to: (i) the yessotoxins producing species P. reticulatum, G. spinifera and L. polyedrum, highlighting genetic and toxic characteristics; (ii) Adriatic strains of Alexandrium minutum, Alexandrium ostenfeldii and Prorocentrum lima whose toxic profiles are compared with those of strains of different geographic origins; (iii) F. japonica and Ostreopsis cf. ovata toxicity. Moreover, new data concerning domoic acid production by a Pseudo-nitzschia multistriata strain, toxicity investigations on a Prorocentrum cf. levis, and on presumably ichthyotoxic species, Heterosigma akashiwo and Chattonella cf. subsalsa, are also reported.
Tetrodotoxin Concentrations in Pleurobranchaea maculata: Temporal, Spatial and Individual Variability from New Zealand Populations
Authors: Wood Susanna A. , Taylor David I. , McNabb Paul , Walker Jarrod , Adamson Janet , Cary Stephen Craig
Published: January 2012

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent neurotoxin that has been identified in a range of phylogenetically unrelated marine and terrestrial organisms. Tetrodotoxin was recently detected in New Zealand in Pleurobranchaea maculata (the grey side-gilled sea slug). From June 2010 to June 2011 wild specimens were collected from 10 locations around New Zealand. At one site (Narrow Neck Beach, Auckland) up to 10 individuals were collected monthly for 6 months. Attempts were also made to rear P. maculata in captivity. Tetrodotoxin was detected in samples from eight of the ten sites. The highest average (368.7 mg kg−1) and maximum (1414.0 mg kg−1) concentrations were measured in samples from Illiomama Rock (Auckland). Of the toxic populations tested there was significant variability in TTX concentrations among individuals, with the highest difference (62 fold) measured at Illiomama Rock. Tetrodotoxin concentrations in samples from Narrow Neck Beach varied temporally, ranging from an average of 184 mg kg−1 in June 2010 to 17.5 mg kg−1 by December 2010. There was no correlation between TTX levels and mass. The highest levels correspond with the egg laying season (June–August) and this, in concert with the detection of high levels of TTX in eggs and early larval stages, suggests that TTX may have a defensive function in P. maculata. Only one larva was successfully reared to full maturation and no TTX was detected.
The Alkaloid Ageladine A, Originally Isolated from Marine Sponges, Used for pH-Sensitive Imaging of Transparent Marine Animals
Authors: Bickmeyer Ulf
Published: January 2012

The brominated pyrrole-imidazole Ageladine A was used for live imaging of the jellyfish (jellies) Nausithoe werneri, the sea anemone Metridium senile and the flatworm Macrostomum lignano. The fluorescence properties of Ageladine A allow for estimation of pH values in tissue and organs in living animals. The results showed that Nausithoe werneri had the most acidic areas in the tentacles and close to the mouth (pH 4–6.5), Metridium senile harbours aggregates of high acidity in the tentacles (pH 5) and in Macrostomum lignano, the rhabdoids, the gonads and areas close to the mouth were the most acidic with values down to pH 5.
Novel Benzothiazole, Benzimidazole and Benzoxazole Derivatives as Potential Antitumor Agents: Synthesis and Preliminary in Vitro Biological Evaluation
Authors: Xiang Pu , Zhou Tian , Wang Liang , Sun Chang-Yan , Hu Jing , Zhao Ying-Lan , Yang Li
Published: January 2012

In a previous hit-to-lead research program targeting anticancer agents, two promising lead compounds, 1a and 1b, were found. However, the poor solubility of 1a and 1b made difficult further in vivo studies. To solve this problem, a lead optimization was conducted through introducing N-methyl-piperazine groups at the 2-position and 6-position. To our delight, the optimized analogue 1d showed comparable antiproliferative activity in vitro with better solubility, compared with 1a. Based on this result, the replacement of the benzothiazole scaffold with benzimidazole and benzoxazole moieties afforded 1f and 1g, whose activities were fundamentally retained. In the preliminary in vitro biological evaluation, the immunofluorescence staining of HCT116 cells indicated that 1d, 1f and 1g led to cytosolic vacuolization which was not induced by 1a at low micromolecular concentrations. These results suggest that these optimized compounds might potentially constitute a novel class of anticancer agents, which merit further studies.
Synthesis and Preliminary Antimicrobial Activities of New Arylideneamino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-(thio/dithio)-acetamido Cephalosporanic Acids
Authors: Alwan Shakir Mahmood
Published: January 2012

New derivatives of 7-aminocephalosporanic acid 1–8 were synthesized by acylation of the 7-amino group of the cephem nucleus with various arylidinimino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-thio(or dithio)-acetic acid intermediates 3a–d and 5a–d, respectively, so the acyl side chains of these new cephalosporins contained a sulfide or disulfide bond. This unique combination of a Schiff base with the sulfide or disulfide bonds in the acyl side chain afforded new cephalosporins of reasonable potencies, some of which were found to possess moderate activities against the tested microorganisms. Their chemical structures were characterized by ¹H-NMR, IR spectroscopy and elemental microanalysis. Preliminary in vitro antimicrobial activities of the prepared cephalosporins were investigated using a panel of selected microorganisms. Results indicated that the newly synthesized cephalosporins containing disulfide bonds (compounds 5–8) exhibited better activities against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The cephalosporins cross-linked by a sulfide bond (compounds 1–4) showed a slight change in antimicrobial activities when compared with that of the reference cephalosporin (cephalexin).
Methotrexate and Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Localized Scleroderma: A Standardized Prospective Longitudinal Single-center Study
Authors: TOROK KATHRYN S. , ARKACHAISRI THASCHAWEE
Published: January 2012

Objective.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a uniform single-center treatment protocol composed of high-dose methotrexate (MTX) and oral corticosteroids in a pediatric localized scleroderma (LS) cohort.

Methods.

Thirty-six patients with LS were recruited. Patients with active disease, defined as erythematous lesions and/or new lesions, or expansion of existing lesions, were started on oral prednisone 2 mg/kg/day (maximum 60 mg/day) and subcutaneous (SC) MTX at 1 mg/kg/week (maximum 25 mg/week). Prednisone was tapered and kept at 0.25 mg/kg/day for 12 months. MTX SC was continued for 24 months, and then switched to oral administration to complete 36 months of therapy. Modified LS Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and the physician global assessment of disease activity (PGA-A) were used as outcome measures.

Results.

Twenty-five patients with LS were female with a median age at onset of 7.86 years [interquartile range (IQR) 4.63–11.91]. Median disease duration from onset until start of this treatment regimen was 19.2 months (IQR 8.96–35.35). Median duration of followup was 36.40 months (IQR 29.39–45.36). All patients demonstrated significant improvement in mLoSSI at median 1.77 months (IQR 0.76–2.37, 95% CI 1.54, 2.01). PGA-A followed the same trend. No significant adverse reactions or flares were observed during therapy.

Conclusion.

This single-center LS treatment protocol was effective and well tolerated. Clinical outcome in LS is affected by dose and route of administration of immunosuppressive regimens. Daily tapering dose of corticosteroids and parenteral MTX were effective in controlling LS activity without significant adverse reaction. This regimen should be considered as one of the therapies for LS clinical trials.
Blood Pressure and Vascular Dysfunction Underlie Elevated Cerebral Blood Flow in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: GASPAROVIC CHARLES , QUALLS CLIFFORD , GREENE ERNEST R. , SIBBITT WILMER L. , ROLDAN CARLOS A.
Published: January 2012

Objective.

In previous studies cerebral blood flow (CBF) was found to be altered in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared to controls. We investigated the relationships between CBF and clinical data from subjects with SLE with the aim of determining the pathologic factors underlying altered CBF in SLE.

Methods.

A total of 42 SLE subjects and 19 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects were studied. Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to measure CBF. Patients and controls underwent complete clinical and laboratory evaluations in close proximity with their MRI studies.

Results.

A higher CBF was present in the SLE group and was independently associated in statistical models with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP; p < 0.01). The intensity of the relationships (slope of curve) between CBF and mean arterial blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, or blood levels of tissue plasminogen activator in the SLE group was significantly blunted relative to the control group.

Conclusion.

These findings are consistent with an underlying cerebral hyperperfusion in SLE induced by elevated but nonhypertensive levels of SBP. The factors underlying this relationship may be functional and/or structural (atherosclerotic, thrombotic, thromboembolic, or vasculitic) cerebrovascular disease.
Involvement of the Femoropopliteal Arteries in Giant Cell Arteritis: Clinical and Color Duplex Sonography
Authors: CZIHAL MICHAEL , TATÒ FEDERICO , RADEMACHER ANTJE , KUHLENCORDT PETER , SCHULZE-KOOPS HENDRIK , HOFFMANN ULRICH
Published: January 2012

Objective.

To determine the extent and clinical significance of giant cell arteritis (GCA) of the femoropopliteal arteries.

Methods.

This was a retrospective clinical color duplex sonography (CDS) study; 60 of 112 consecutive patients with the diagnosis of GCA underwent complete clinical examination of the lower extremities including the vasculature, systolic ankle pressure measurement, and CDS scans of the femoropopliteal arteries within 1 year after diagnosis of GCA. Circumferential, hypoechogenic, homogenous wall thickening was regarded as a hallmark of femoropopliteal GCA.

Results.

GCA of femoropopliteal arteries was present in 32 (53.3%) of 60 patients. In general, femoropopliteal GCA developed bilaterally (100%) and 14 patients (23.3%) had significant lower extremity artery obstructions secondary to vasculitis, all leading to symptomatic lower extremity ischemia, with development of critical leg ischemia in 4 patients. Compared with subjects without lower extremity vasculitis, patients with femoropopliteal involvement had a significant time delay until diagnosis (mean 23.9 vs 11.1 weeks; p = 0.03) and a higher frequency of concomitant vasculitis of the arm arteries (74.2% vs 42.9%; p = 0.02).

Conclusion.

Femoropopliteal artery involvement appears to be a clinically relevant manifestation of GCA, frequently leading to symptomatic lower extremity ischemia. CDS of the femoropopliteal arteries is a noninvasive diagnostic tool for detection of lower extremity vasculitis in GCA.
Aggravation of ADAMTS and Matrix Metalloproteinase Production and Role of ERK1/2 Pathway in the Interaction of Osteoarthritic Subchondral Bone Osteoblasts and Articular Cartilage Chondrocytes — Possible Pathogenic Role in Osteoarthritis
Authors: PRASADAM INDIRA , CRAWFORD ROSS , XIAO YIN
Published: January 2012

Objective.

Degradative enzymes, such as A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), play key roles in development of osteoarthritis (OA). We investigated if crosstalk between subchondral bone osteoblasts (SBO) and articular cartilage chondrocytes (ACC) in OA alters the expression and regulation of ADAMTS5, ADAMTS4, MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-8, MMP-9, and MMP-13, and also tested the possible involvement of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway during this process.

Methods.

ACC and SBO were isolated from normal and OA patients. An in vitro coculture model was developed to study the regulation of ADAMTS and MMP under normal and OA joint crosstalk conditions. The MAPK-ERK inhibitor PD98059 was applied to delineate the involvement of specific pathways during this interaction process.

Results.

Indirect coculture of OA SBO with normal ACC resulted in significantly increased expression of ADAMTS5, ADAMTS4, MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9 in ACC, whereas coculture of OA ACC led to increased MMP-1 and MMP-2 expression in normal SBO. Upregulation of ADAMTS and MMP under these conditions was correlated with activation of the MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and addition of the MAPK-ERK inhibitor PD98059 reversed the overexpression of ADAMTS and MMP in cocultures.

Conclusion.

These results add to the evidence that in human OA, altered bidirectional signals between SBO and ACC significantly influence the critical features of both cartilage and bone by producing abnormal levels of ADAMTS and MMP. We have demonstrated for the first time that this altered crosstalk was mediated by the phosphorylation of MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
Morbidity, Mortality, and Organ Damage in Patients with Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: GRIKA ELEFTHERIA P. , ZIAKAS PANAYIOTIS D. , ZINTZARAS ELIAS , MOUTSOPOULOS HARALAMPOS M. , VLACHOYIANNOPOULOS PANAYIOTIS G.
Published: January 2012

Objective.

To describe morbidity, organ damage, mortality, and cause of death in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods.

Descriptive analysis of 135 patients. Patients were clustered according to initial event: arterial thrombosis including stroke (AT; n = 46), venous thrombosis including pulmonary emboli (VT; n = 53), or pregnancy morbidity (PM; n = 36). Disease progression according to initial event and prevalence of organ damage was observed.

Results.

APS occurs among young individuals (mean age 33.3 ± 11.9 yrs). One-third of the patients have APS secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or SLE-like disease. A broad spectrum of clinical manifestations mark the disease onset even before diagnosis. The pattern of initial presentation is preserved with regard to second event; VT is followed by VT (84%), AT is followed by AT (95%), and PM is followed by PM (88.9%). The highest morbidity is attributed to neurologic damage. PM is more likely to be followed by a second event, yet is associated with less organ damage than AT and VT. After a mean followup of 7.55 years, 29% of patients experienced organ damage and 5 died, with Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics score associated with increased mortality (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07–1.60, p = 0.01, per 1-unit increase); hematological malignancies occurred in 2 patients after a cumulative followup of 1020 person-years. Coexistent SLE adds significant damage in patients with APS.

Conclusion.

APS is a disease of young individuals, who experience increased morbidity. Neurologic damage is the most common cause of morbidity. AT at presentation as well as coexistent SLE are associated with poor outcome.
Adverse Events During Longterm Low-dose Glucocorticoid Treatment of Polymyalgia Rheumatica: A Retrospective Study
Authors: MAZZANTINI MAURIZIO , TORRE CLAUDIA , MICCOLI MARIO , BAGGIANI ANGELO , TALARICO ROSARIA , BOMBARDIERI STEFANO , DI MUNNO OMBRETTA
Published: January 2012

Objective.

To assess the occurrence of adverse events in a cohort of patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), treated with low-dose glucocorticoids (GC).

Methods.

This was a retrospective study by review of medical records.

Results.

We identified 222 patients who had a mean duration of followup of 60 ± 22 months and a mean duration of GC therapy of 46 ± 22 months. We found that 95 patients (43%) had at least 1 adverse event after a mean duration of GC therapy of 31 ± 22 months and a mean cumulative dose of 3.4 ± 2.4 g. In particular, 55 developed osteoporosis, 31 had fragility fractures; 27 developed arterial hypertension; 11 diabetes mellitus; 9 acute myocardial infarction; 3 stroke; and 2 peripheral arterial disease. Univariate analysis showed that the duration of GC treatment was significantly associated with osteoporosis (p < 0.0001), fragility fractures (p < 0.0001), arterial hypertension (p < 0.005), and acute myocardial infarction (p < 0.05). Cumulative GC dose was significantly associated with osteoporosis (p < 0.0001), fragility fractures (p < 0.0001), and arterial hypertension (p < 0.01). The adverse events occurred more frequently after 2 years of treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that GC duration was significantly associated with osteoporosis (adjusted OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.02–1.05) and arterial hypertension (adjusted OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.06); GC cumulative dose was significantly associated with fragility fractures (adjusted OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.03–1.8).

Conclusion.

Longterm, low-dose GC treatment of PMR is associated with serious adverse events such as osteoporosis, fractures, and arterial hypertension; these adverse events occur mostly after 2 years of treatment.