bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marcas Históricas no Nacionalismo Português * Historical Marks in the Portuguese Nationalism
Authors: PEREIRA DANGLEI DE CASTRO
Published: August 2015

Resumo: O texto comenta a presença de tensões históricas na literatura portuguesa, dando especial atenção aos aspectos da temática nacionalista nessa tradição. O caminho analítico implica o cotejo de obras representativas dentro da tradição literária portuguesa face à ideia de permanência temática e de possíveis reflexos da tradição literária em Portugal na interface com valores históricos. O foco analítico valoriza a presença de caminhos trilhados pelo nacionalismo em diferentes obras literárias, dando enfoque, quando possível, na relação entre literatura e História.

Palavras-chave: Nacionalismo – Literatura portuguesa – Tradição.

 

Abstract: The text comments the presence of historical tensions in the Portuguese literature, thus giving special attention to the nationalist aspects of the thematic in that tradition. The analytic way implies the comparison of representative works in the Portuguese literary tradition faced with thematic endurance and possible reflexes of the literary tradition in Portugal in the interface with historical values. The analytical focus values the presence of ways which are well-trodden by the nationalism in different literary works, giving focus, when possible, in the relationship between literature and History.

Keywords: Nationalism – Portuguese Literature – Tradition.
Histórias de Homero: um Balanço das Propostas de Datação dos Poemas Homéricos * Homer’s Histories: a Balance of the Dating Proposals of Homeric Poems
Authors: OLIVEIRA GUSTAVO
Published: August 2015

Resumo: A datação dos poemas homéricos é um assunto polêmico e repleto de dificuldades. Mesmo diante de tal cenário, sua utilização como fonte histórica tem ocorrido, em geral sem maiores considerações acerca da dificuldade de resolver problemas centrais para a maneira de como os poemas são contextualizados. O presente estudo tem como objetivo fazer um levantamento das possibilidades de abordagens históricas destes poemas, apontando as particularidades, os pressupostos e problemas relacionados a cada uma. Por fim é apresentada uma sugestão alternativa de abordagem, que toma como ponto de partida a datação da tradição da qual os poemas fazem parte, encarando-os como testemunhos válidos desta tradição de longa duração oral.

Palavras-chave: Sociedade Homérica – Épica Grega – Tradição Oral.

 

Abstract: Dating the Homeric poems is a polemic subject, filled with difficulties. Even so, the poems have been used as historical sources, generally without any significant remarks about the difficulty in solving main problems in how the poems are put into context. The focus of this paper is to trace the possibilities of historical approaches which use the Homeric poems as sources and pointing out the particularities, the assumption and the problems presented in each type of approach. At last, it is suggested an alternative approach which has, as the starting point, the dating of  the tradition to which the poems belong, considering them valid testimonies of such a long-lasting oral tradition.

Keywords: Homeric Society – Greek Epic – Oral Tradition.
Phraseological unit as the Main element of Pragmatic Level of Language Personality of Catherinе II
Authors:   Chuvash State University, Nikitina A. Yu.
Published: August 2015

The article analyzes the specificity of the linguistic personality of Catherine II on a pragmatic level, studies phraseological units, used in her texts, as the main instrument of pragmatic impact on the recipient.
Composition and structure of Lexicon at Different stages of ontogenesis
Authors:   Saratov State University, Sdobnova A. P.
Published: August 2015

The article sums up the results of studying the composition and structure of the lexicon of school pupils of different age groups.
Health Care and Aboriginal Seniors in Urban Canada: Helping a Neglected Class
Authors: Beatty Bonita Beulah , Berdahl Loleen
Published: August 2015

Canadian researchers and policymakers have paid limited attention to the health care needs of Aboriginal seniors. This lack of attention is problematic, as the situation of Aboriginal seniors – including both status and non-status First Nations, Métis and Inuit – is particularly bleak. Using Winnipeg, Regina and Saskatoon as examples, this paper analyses the health care challenges facing Aboriginal seniors in urban Canada. We ask, what policy approaches are needed to improve the health and wellbeing of urban Aboriginal seniors so that they can have good quality living reflective of their needs and culture? We suggest that, in thinking through present and future health services for urban Aboriginal seniors, policymakers should consider four key factors: socioeconomic conditions; underutilization of urban health services; jurisdiction; and elder abuse.
Preventing Obesity in Canada’s Aboriginal Children: Not Just a Matter of Eating Right and Getting Active
Authors: Ferris Melanie A
Published: August 2015

Obesity is a growing issue for all children. Many experts say that preventing obesity is largely a matter of eating the right foods and getting enough physical activity. This advice doesn’t recognize the fact that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children face unique barriers to growing up healthy and strong simply because of their identity. This paper discusses how the social determinants of health impact the ability of Aboriginal children to grow up free of obesity. The paper highlights results from a community-based research project conducted amongst Aboriginal parents and service providers in Ontario who wish to prevent obesity amongst their own young children and clients. Research was carried out over two years to help develop a “toolkit” and training program to help service provides increase efforts to prevent obesity amongst First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children from the ages of 2 to 6 in Ontario.
Colonialism as a Broader Social Determinant of Health
Authors: Czyzewski Karina
Published: August 2015

A proposed broader or Indigenized social determinants of health framework includes "colonialism" along with other global processes. What does it mean to understand Canadian colonialism as a distal determinant of Indigenous health? This paper reviews pertinent discourses surrounding Indigenous mental health in Canada. With an emphasis on the notion of intergenerational trauma, there are real health effects of social, political, and economic marginalization embodied within individuals, which can collectively affect entire communities. Colonialism can also be enacted and reinforced within Indigenous mental health discourse, thus influencing scholarly and popular perceptions. Addressing this distal determinant through policy work necessitates that improving Indigenous health is inherently related to improving these relationships, i.e. eliminating colonial relations, and increasing self-determination.
Awakening: 'Spontaneous recovery’ from substance abuse among Aboriginal peoples in Canada
Authors: Tempier Adrien , Dell Colleen A , Papequash Elder Campbell , Duncan Randy , Tempier Raymond
Published: August 2015

There is a paucity of research on spontaneous recovery (SR) from substance abuse in general, and specific to Aboriginal peoples. There is also limited understanding of the healing process associated with SR. In this study, SR was examined among a group of Aboriginal peoples in Canada. Employing a decolonizing methodology, thematic analysis of traditional talking circle narratives identified an association between a traumatic life event and an ‘awakening.’ This ‘awakening’ was embedded in primary (i.e., consider impact on personal well-being) and secondary (i.e., implement alternative coping mechanism) cognitive appraisal processes and intrinsic and extrinsic motivation rooted in increased traditional Aboriginal cultural awareness and understanding. This contributed to both abstinence (i.e., recovery) and sustained well-being (i.e., continued abstinence). Three key interrelated ‘themes’ specific to the role of culture in SR and recovery maintenance were identified: Aboriginal identity, cultural practices, and traditional values. These findings, combined with the limited literature, were developed into a prospective model of SR from substance abuse in Aboriginal peoples. This model highlights the potential need for substance abuse treatment and intervention policy to consider culture as a determinant of health and well-being.
Capacity-building and Participatory Research Development of a Community-based Nutrition and Exercise Lifestyle Intervention Program (NELIP) for Pregnant and Postpartum Aboriginal Women:Information Gathered from Talking Circles.
Authors: Mottola Michelle F , Sopper Maggie M , Doxtator Lindsay , Big-Canoe Katie , Prapavessis Harry , Harris Stewart , Hanley Anthony
Published: August 2015

Objectives were to gather information from Talking Circles of Aboriginal women who participated in a maternal Nutrition and Exercise Lifestyle Intervention Program (NELIP) to identify strategies to bring NELIP into the community. Twelve First Nations women participated. Several main themes were identified regarding health: balance, knowledge/education and time management. Benefits of the NELIP were improvement in health, stamina, stress, and a healthy baby, no gestational diabetes and a successful home birth, with social support as an important contributing factor for success. Suggestions for improvement for the NELIP included group walking, and incorporating more traditional foods into the meal plan. The information gathered is the first step in determining strategies using participatory research and capacity-building to develop a community-based NELIP for pregnant Aboriginal women.
Bayesian inference of environmental and biotic factors determining the occurrence of the grapevine disease ‘bois noir'
Authors: Panassiti Bernd , Hartig Florian , Breuer Michael , Biedermann Robert
Published: August 2015

Insect‐vectored plant diseases often create complex epidemiological systems that are challenging to understand, predict, and manage. An example is ‘bois noir' (BN), a phytoplasma‐associated grapevine disease commonly found in European vineyards. Although BN has the potential to cause substantial economic damage, the factors that contribute to BN prevalence in vineyards are still not well understood.

We used Bayesian inference with generalized linear mixed‐effect models to test the hypotheses that (1) grapevine varieties exhibit different BN susceptibility; (2) environment drivers influence prevalence of the disease and occurrence of the vector; and (3) the presence of the main vector is a major determinant of BN occurrence.

We found that the presence of the vector Hyalesthes obsoletus increased with increasing isothermality, minimum temperatures during the coldest period, soil erosion, and natural vegetation in close proximity to the vineyards. Presence of the BN disease increased with presence of the vector as well as increasing altitudes and mean annual temperatures. After accounting for those factors, Chardonnay and Riesling showed higher disease prevalence than Müller‐Thurgau, Silvaner, and Merlot. Although the vector had an overall positive effect on the disease prevalence, disease and vector occurrence show distinct spatial patterns.

In conclusion, our analysis suggests that vector presence is not the only, and maybe not the most important factor for BN disease prevalence. Environment and grape cultivar also play important roles. Hence, area‐wide predictions of both environmental disease risk and vector presence, together with information about the susceptibility of grape cultivars, will enable a more targeted disease management. Our modelling framework could easily be applied to other diseases of concern, such as apple proliferation or flavescence dorée.
Quality Appraisal: Part II
Authors: Raines Deborah A.
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Quality appraisal is an essential step in the evidence-based practice process. This column focuses on evaluating the quality of the individual study and its applicability to practice.
Explicación de las disparidades raciales en la salud neonatal en Brasil
Authors: Nyarko Kwame A. , López-Camelo Jorge , Castilla Eduardo E. , Wehby George L.
Published: August 2015

Objetivos. Buscamos cuantificar la manera en que los efectos socioeconómicos, demográficos, geográficos y de atención de salud explican las disparidades raciales en las tasas de bajo peso al nacer y prematuridad en Brasil.

Métodos. Utilizamos una muestra de 8 949 niños nacidos entre 1995 y el 2009 en 15 ciudades y 7 provincias de Brasil. Nos centramos en las disparidades en la prevalencia de bajo peso al nacer (< 2 500 g) y prematuridad (< 37 semanas de gestación) en recién nacidos de ascendencia solo africana o mezclada con otras ascendencias y de ascendencia solo europea. Usamos un modelo de descomposición para cuantificar la contribución de los factores conceptualmente pertinentes a esas disparidades.

Resultados. El modelo permitió explicar entre 45% y 94% de las disparidades en cuanto al bajo peso al nacer y entre 64% y 94% de las disparidades en cuanto a la prematuridad entre los grupos de ascendencia africana y de ascendencia europea. Las diferencias en el uso de atención prenatal y en la ubicación geográfica fueron los factores más importantes, seguidos por las diferencias socioeconómicas. El modelo permitió explicar la mayoría de las disparidades en los recién nacidos de ascendencia africana mezclada y parte de las disparidades en los de ascendencia solo africana.

Conclusiones. En las políticas públicas para mejorar la salud infantil se deben abordar las diferencias en cuanto a la atención prenatal y la ubicación geográfica a fin de reducir las disparidades en materia de salud entre los recién nacidos de ascendencia africana y los de ascendencia europea en Brasil.
The Combined Effects of the Expansion of Primary Health Care and Conditional Cash Transfers on Infant Mortality in Brazil, 1998–2010
Authors: Guanais Frederico C.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. I examined the combined effects of access to primary care through the Family Health Program (FHP) and conditional cash transfers from the Bolsa Familia Program (BFP) on postneonatal infant mortality (PNIM) in Brazil.

Methods. I employed longitudinal ecological analysis using panel data from 4583 Brazilian municipalities from 1998 to 2010, totaling 54 253 observations. I estimated fixed-effects ordinary least squares regressions models with PNIM rate as the dependent variable and FHP, BFP, and their interactions as the main independent variables of interest.

Results. The association of higher FHP coverage with lower PNIM became stronger as BFP coverage increased. At the means of all other variables, when BFP coverage was 25%, predicted PNIM was 5.24 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.95, 5.53) for FHP coverage = 0% and 3.54 (95% CI = 2.77, 4.31) for FHP coverage = 100%. When BFP coverage was 60%, predicted PNIM was 4.65 (95% CI = 4.36, 4.94) when FHP coverage = 0% and 1.38 (95% CI = 0.88, 1.89) when FHP coverage = 100%.

Conclusions. The effect of the FHP depends on the expansion of the BFP. For impoverished, underserved populations, combining supply- and demand-side interventions may be necessary to improve health outcomes.
Efectos combinados de la ampliación de la atención primaria de salud y de las transferencias condicionadas de dinero en efectivo sobre la mortalidad infantil en Brasil, 1998–2010
Authors: Guanais Frederico C.
Published: August 2015

Objetivos. Examiné los efectos combinados del acceso a la atención primaria mediante el Programa de Salud Familiar (PSF) y las transferencias condicionadas de dinero en efectivo del Programa Bolsa Familia (PBF) sobre la mortalidad infantil posneonatal (MIPN) en Brasil.

Métodos. Empleé un análisis ecológico longitudinal usando datos en panel de 4 583 municipios brasileños de 1998 al 2010, con 54 253 observaciones en total. Estimé modelos de regresión de efectos fijos por mínimos cuadrados ordinarios, con la tasa de MIPN como la variable dependiente y el PSF, el PBF y sus interacciones como las principales variables independientes de interés.

Resultados. La asociación de una mayor cobertura del PSF con una menor tasa de MIPN se volvió más fuerte conforme aumentaba la cobertura del PBF. En los promedios de todas las demás variables, cuando la cobertura de PBF era 25%, la MIPN predicha fue 5,24 (intervalo de confianza [IC] de 95% = 4,95, 5,53) para una cobertura del PSF de 0%, y de 3,54 (IC de 95% = 2,77, 4,31) para una cobertura del PSF de 100%. Cuando la cobertura del PBF era de 60%, la MIPN predicha fue 4,65 (IC de 95% = 4,36, 4,94) para una cobertura del PSF de 0%, y de 1,38 (IC de 95% = 0,88, 1,89) para una cobertura del PSF de 100%.

Conclusiones. El efecto del PSF depende de la ampliación del PBF. Para las poblaciones empobrecidas y subatendidas, la combinación de intervenciones tanto del lado de la oferta como del lado de la demanda podría ser necesaria para mejorar los resultados en salud.
Arthroscopic Posterior Knee Capsulotomy for a Fixed Flexion Contracture in a Ten-Year-Old Boy Due to a Hypertrophied Ligamentum Mucosum
Authors: Pace J. Lee
Published: August 2015

Case:

Knee flexion contractures are difficult to treat effectively. We present the case of a ten-year-old boy with a flexion contracture due to a hypertrophied ligamentum mucosum treated with an arthroscopic posterior capsular release. The patient obtained full extension and maintained it at the time of final follow-up.

Conclusion:

This case represents a unique cause of an impinging ligamentum mucosum and provides anecdotal support to the concept of an arthroscopic posterior capsular release as a safe and effective option for flexion contractures.
Long‐Term Crop Residue and Nitrogen Management Effects on Soil Profile Carbon and Nitrogen in Wheat–Fallow Systems
Authors: Ghimire Rajan , Machado Stephen , Rhinhart Karl
Published: August 2015

Intensive cultivation of native grassland for dryland agriculture continuously depleted soil organic carbon (SOC) and nutrients. In 2010, we evaluated the influence of 80 yr of crop residue and nutrient management practices on SOC and N in 0‐ to 60‐cm soil depth profiles in conventionally tilled winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–summer fallow (WW–SF) system. Residue and N treatments, no N addition with fall burning (FB0), spring burning (SB0), and no burning (NB0), 45 kg N ha−1 with SB (SB45) and NB (NB45), 90 kg N ha−1 with SB (SB90) and NB (NB90), manure (MN, 5.32 Mg dry mass ha−1 yr−1), and pea vines (PV, 0.99 Mg dry mass ha−1yr−1), were in ordered arrangement, and an undisturbed grassland (GP) was used as a reference. All WW–SF treatments had less SOC and N stocks than GP. The SOC stocks were lowest under FB0 with 50% less SOC than GP. The WW–SF treatments have depleted up to 63 and 26% of SOC and N from surface soil since 1931. Fall burning and MN treatments depleted SOC at rates of 0.64 and 0.17 Mg ha−1yr−1. Nitrogen stocks decreased at a rate of 0.02 Mg ha−1yr−1 in FB, SB, and NB treatments, and 0.01 Mg ha−1yr−1 in PV treatment. Reduction in tillage, application of low C/N ratio residues, and elimination of burning can improve sustainability of winter wheat production in the summer fallow region of the Pacific Northwest (PNW).
Long‐Term Corn and Soybean Response to Crop Rotation and Tillage
Authors: Sindelar Aaron J. , Schmer Marty R. , Jin Virginia L. , Wienhold Brian J. , Varvel Gary E.
Published: August 2015

Long‐term experiments are essential to understand how crop rotation and tillage practices affect corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production and its resiliency to variable weather conditions. A 28‐yr rainfed experiment was conducted in Nebraska to evaluate continuous corn (CC), the corn phase of corn–soybean rotation (CS), continuous soybean (SS), and the soybean phase of corn–soybean rotation (SC), and tillage system (chisel [CH], tandem disk [DK], moldboard plow [MP], no‐till [NT], ridge‐tillage [RT], and subsoil tillage [ST]) on grain yield and yield stability. In 19 of 28 yr, CS yields were greater than CC, although the corn grain yield advantage in CS decreased as CC yield increased. Rotated soybean (SC) grain yield was greater than SS in 67% of cropping years, and similar in the remaining 33%. Stability analysis showed that all crop rotation and tillage combinations, except CH for soybean, resulted in stable grain yields across a range of seasonal weather patterns. Corn grain yields were affected by tillage in 29% of the years, while NT soybean resulted in consistently high and stable grain yields following an initial 11‐yr lag period. We conclude that crop rotation has a greater impact on corn and soybean production than tillage in the western Corn Belt, although nearly all combinations can produce stable yields if well managed.
One Size Does Not Fit All: How the Uniform Rules of FIN 48 Affect the Relevance of Income Tax Accounting
Authors: Robinson Leslie A. , Stomberg Bridget , Towery Erin M.
Published: August 2015

Our study examines how the uniform rules of FIN 48, which governs accounting for income tax uncertainty, affect the relevance of income tax accounting. By requiring all firms to follow the same recognition and measurement process, the FASB intended FIN 48 to improve the relevance of income tax accounting. However, practitioners argue that reserves reported under FIN 48 lack relevance because they represent liabilities that will never be paid to tax authorities. Consistent with these concerns, we estimate that over a three-year period, only 24 cents of every dollar of reserves unwind via settlements. Moreover, contrary to the FASB's intention, we find no evidence that FIN 48 increased the ability of tax expense to predict future tax cash flows. Rather, we find that the predictive ability of tax expense for future tax cash flows decreases among firms for which FIN 48 is most restrictive. Finally, we find no evidence that investors identify firms for which reserves overstate future tax cash outflows and incorporate this into their valuations. Our results provide evidence that the uniform accounting rules of FIN 48 negatively affect the relevance of income tax accounting.

JEL Classifications: H25; M41; M48.
Foreign Portfolio Investment and Shareholder Dividend Taxes
Authors: Amiram Dan , Frank Mary Margaret
Published: August 2015

We investigate the effects of dividend taxes on foreign equity portfolio holdings. Based on the extension of an equilibrium model with risky assets to an international setting, we predict that a change in the tax rate on dividends of a country's domestic investors is positively related to changes in foreign investors' portfolio holdings in that country. The evidence from two research settings, which exploit changes in the national tax policies of different countries, supports this prediction. More generally, the model predicts that a foreign investor's equilibrium portfolio holdings in a country are negatively related to the dividend tax rate that she directly pays on assets in that country and positively related to the weighted-average dividend tax rate of worldwide investors in that country. Results from analyses using panel data provide empirical support for these predictions.
Perspectives on Active Video Gaming as a New Frontier in Accessible Physical Activity for Youth With Physical Disabilities
Authors: Rowland Jennifer L. , Malone Laurie A. , Fidopiastis Cali M. , Padalabalanarayanan Sangeetha , Thirumalai Mohanraj , Rimmer James H.
Published: August 2015

This perspective article explores the utility of active video gaming as a means of reducing sedentary behavior and increasing physical activity among youth with physical disabilities and limitations in lower extremity function who typically are excluded from mainstream exercise options. Youth with physical disabilities are disproportionately affected by health problems that result from sedentary behavior, lack of physical activity, and low fitness levels. Physical, programmatic, and attitudinal barriers have a synergistic and compounded impact on youths' ability to participate in physical activity. A recent health and wellness task force recommendation from the American Physical Therapy Association's Section on Pediatrics supports analyzing individualized health behaviors and preferences that are designed to improve fitness, physical activity, and participation in pediatric rehabilitation. This recommendation represents an opportunity to explore nontraditional options to maximize effectiveness and sustainability of pediatric rehabilitation techniques for youth with disabilities who could best benefit from customized programming. One new frontier in promoting physical activity and addressing common physical activity barriers for youth with physical disabilities is active video games (AVGs), which have received growing attention as a promising strategy for promoting health and fitness in children with and without disabilities. The purpose of this article is to discuss the potential for AVGs as an accessible option to increase physical activity participation for youth with physical disabilities and limitations in lower extremity function. A conceptual model on the use of AVGs to increase physical activity participation for youth with physical disabilities is introduced, and future research potential is discussed, including a development project for game controller adaptations within the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Interactive Exercise Technologies and Exercise Physiology for People With Disabilities (RERC RecTech) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)/Lakeshore Foundation Research Collaborative.
Correlation of Iodine content of mother’s milk and urine with their child’s TSH level
Authors: Singh Shruti , Lamsal Madhab , Baral Nirmal , Bhatta Nisha Keshary , Uprety Dhruba K
Published: August 2015

Background: Iodine deficiency is still a significant public health problem. In the rural plains of Nepal, it remains a mild-to-moderate public health problem among pregnant and lactating women despite the availability of iodized salt. To date, only limited attention has been paid to breast-milk iodine content despite its importance in the intellectual development of infants.Objectives: (i) To determine iodine content in mother’s urine, mother’s milk and to measure their respective child’s TSH level. (ii) To correlate iodine content of mother’s urine with child’s TSH level and also mother’s milk content with child’s TSH level.Setting and Design: cross sectional study in human using consecutive sampling techniqueMaterials and Methods: Mother’s urinary and milk iodine level was measured by Ammonium Persulfate Digestion Microplate method using Sandell-Kolthoff reaction in a sealing cassette (Hitachi, Japan) and child’s TSH by ELISA commercial Kit from Eliscan (RFCL, India) based on classical sandwich technique.Statistical analysis used: Spearman’s correlation was performed in quantitative variables. A p-value less than 0.05 and 0.001 were considered statistically significant and highly significant respectivelyResults: The median mother’s urine was 174.96 µg/L(97.39-215.43)  and their respective median child TSH level was 3.86 mIU/L(2.66-4.80). Median mother’s milk iodine was 129.90 µg/L (94.14-165.94).There was significant negative correlation between mothers’ urinary iodine content and their child’s TSH (r2= -0.391, p = 0.005) and between mother’s urinary iodine and their child’s TSH (r2= -0.471, p = 0.001). There was positive correlation between mother’s milk iodine and mother urinary iodine but not statistically significant ((r2= 0.261, p = 0.067).Conclusion: Mothers urinary iodine, mother’s milk iodine and child TSH are interrelated with each other.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 40-48
Expression of Tau Protein and Tau mRNA in gastric carcinoma
Authors: Li Chun-hui , Pan Li-Hui , Sahi Rajina , Xing Zhao , Yu Cheng , De-Li Zhang
Published: August 2015

Aims and Objectives: To provide theoretical basis for the gastric carcinoma pathogenesis and the clinical targeted therapy.  Materials and Methods: We detected the expression of Tau protein and Tau mRNA in 60 cases of gastric carcinoma tissues (observation group) and 10 cases of normal gastric tissues (control group). Immunohistochemisty was adopted to detect the expression of Tau protein in normal and carcinomatous gastric tissue. Tau mRNA was detected by RT-PCR in normal and carcinomatous gastric tissue. To analyse the experimental data combined clinical pathology with statistics. Results: The expression of Tau protein in carcinomatous gastric tissue was higher than that in normal gastric tissue (P<0.05). The expression of Tau protein and Tau mRNA in well differentiated and moderately differentiated was lower than that in poorly differentiated gastric carcinoma (P<0.05). The expression of Tau protein and Tau mRNA in gastric carcinoma without lymph node metastasis was lower than that in gastric carcinoma with lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). The expression of Tau mRNA in carcinomatous gastric tissue was higher than that in normal gastric tissue (P<0.05).Conclusion: Tau protein and Tau mRNA were significant differences between normal gastric tissue and gastric carcinoma, also were concerned with differentiation in grade and lymph node metastasis of gastric carcinoma.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 20-23
Intra uterine insemination: Limitations in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Rani Rekha , Sinha Maruti , Bhattacharya Ratnaboli , Gupta Ridhima , Kaur Gurcharan
Published: August 2015

Aims and Objectives: Infertile couples need expert guidance to be able to choose an appropriate therapy relevant to their sub-fertility where one in seven couples have infertility. The present study has been designed to study the clinical effectiveness of IUI in enhancing pregnancy rates in cases of unexplained infertility and to compare it with other modalities of expectant treatment. We enumerate our experience with IUI at Kasturba Hospital with a special effort to assess any limitations in performing this procedure in tertiary care centres like ours.Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study with observational analysis of data on sub fertile couples who underwent COH and IUI as a part of the management protocol in our hospital- Kasturba Hospital, New Delhi. The period of study extended from 2007 to 2014. Infertility work up of all the registered couples was done on a standard investigation protocol. The male partner was also assessed by a detailed history and semen analysis.Results: Average females were less than 30 years of age at 48.1% Majority of couples were having primary infertility (82.28%) whereas only 17.72% had secondary infertility. Pregnancy rates achieved with single IUI (22.55%) was more than that achieved in double IUI (11.11%). Pre rupture IUI resulted in higher pregnancy rates (23.08%) than post rupture ones (15.12%). Out of pregnancies that occurred from IUI cycles, term deliveries were 21.52% and there were 6.33% spontaneous miscarriages. Only 2.53% had twin pregnancies.Conclusion: In a resource deprived country like India where low per capita income make IVF-ET an unaffordable option to most of the patients, IUI has found wide acceptance with much lower costs. However the biggest limitation in offering IUI is that most of the tertiary care centres in India are yet to eqiup itself with standard IUI Laboratories to thus make Intra Uterine insemination widely available at affordably low cost.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 76-81
Prevalence of SRY and DAX-1 gene deletion in patients with Cryptorchidism and Hypospadias – A Pilot study in North Indian Children
Authors: Gulla Krishna Mohan , Panigrahi Inusha , Marwaha R.K. , Rao K.L.N.
Published: August 2015

Background: Cryptorchidism and hypospadias  are common problems in males attending the pediatric surgery clinic. These two abnormalities are also associated with genetic syndromes/disorders of sexual development (DSD).Aims and Objectives: Aim of present study was to find out the prevalence of SRY and DAX-1 gene deletions in phenotypic males with cryptorchidism or hypospadias.Materials and Methods: Children with cryptorchidism, or hypospadias attending the Pediatric Surgery OPD were enrolled for the study after informed consent.  One blood sample (4ml) was taken from each patient for DNA analysis and PCR amplification of SRY and DAX-1 genes was done using the previously described primers. PCR for   DAX and SRY genes was done according to a standard protocol.Results: The age ranged from 12 months to 144 months. Twenty-nine children had cryptorchidism and 22 had hypospadias. Out of 29 children having cryptorchidism, 11 had right side cryptorchidism and 7 had bilateral cryptorchidism. Out of 22 children having hypospadias, 13 had distal penile hypospadias. The DNA analysis showed amplification of DAX gene in all 51 patients. SRY gene showed amplification in 50/51 patients and one patient’s DNA did not show amplification.  Conclusion: More extensive studies are needed to explore the enigma of genetic basis involved in DSD. Cryptorchidism and hypospadias are anomalies with potentially severe consequences, such as infertility and testicular cancer, and more research efforts can help in characterization of cause of these abnormalities.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 24-29
Correlation of Serum zinc with TSH in hyperthyroidism
Authors: Sinha Satwika , Kar Kaushik , Dasgupta Anindya , Basu Saubhik , Sen Sukanta
Published: August 2015

Aims and Objectives: Trace elements may have a role in progression of hyperthyroidism. We planned to estimate the serum zinc, copper and ceruloplasmin in hyperthyroids.Materials and Methods: 41 hyperthyroid patients and 32 control subjects were taken for the study. Serum T4,TSH ,zinc, copper and ceruloplasmin were estimated in them. T4 and TSH were estimated by ELISA method. Zinc and copper were estimated by colorimetric method. Serum ceruloplasmin were estimated by  Ravins method.Results: Significant decrease of TSH (p<0.0001)and zinc(p<0.0001) were found in hyperthyroids in comparision to controls. Serum copper and ceruloplasmin were significantly  elevated(p<0.0001) in them. Significant positive correlation  between TSH and zinc was observed in case group.Conclusion: Zinc defficiency may contribute to the worsening of hyperthyroidism. Zinc supplementation may improve the condition.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.7(1) 2015 66-69
Environmental Flows in Nepal - An Evaluation of Current Practices and an Analysis of the Upper Trishuli-I Hydroelectric Project
Authors: Rijal Narayan Hari , Alfredsen Knut
Published: August 2015

Environmental assessments and environmental flows are important components in modern hydropower development. Various methods employing a combination of hydrology, hydraulics, environmental assessment and ecology have been developed for analysing and setting environmental flows. In the developed countries, detailed assessments are being carried out for setting environmental flows whereas very little attention has been given to this topic in Nepal. However, this trend is changing in recent developments. We discuss current minimum flow practices for a number of hydropower projects in the planning, development and operation phases to observe minimum flows and environmental flow over time. Furthermore, we present an analysis of environmental flows for the Upper Trishuli-I Hydroelectric Project in Nepal that is currently in the planning phase. We base our conclusion using current flow assessment methodologies to study the effects of proposed minimum flows and possible changes to improve the effect of compensatory releases. HYDRO Nepal JournalJournal of Water, Energy and EnvironmentIssue: 17, July 2015
Malignant fungal infection of the cavernous sinus: case report
Authors: Neil Jayson A. , Orlandi Richard R. , Couldwell William T.
Published: August 2015

Intracranial spread of fungal infection is a life-threatening condition that usually affects immunocompromised patients. Here the authors present a case of biopsy-proven Aspergillus fumigatus infection of the paranasal sinuses in an immunocompetent patient with documented spread to the orbit, cavernous sinus, and petrous apex despite medical antifungal treatment. As a life-saving treatment, cavernous sinus resection with external carotid artery-middle cerebral artery bypass was performed. The authors discuss the literature regarding the intracranial spread of paranasal sinus fungal infections in immunocompetent patients and management strategies.
Utility of nonpenetrating titanium clips for dural closure during spinal surgery to prevent postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage
Authors: Ito Kiyoshi , Aoyama Tatsuro , Horiuchi Tetsuyoshi , Hongo Kazuhiro
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

The nonpenetrating titanium clip has been successfully used in peripheral arterial bypass surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the leakage pressures and patterns of nonpenetrating titanium clips using a simple model that mimicked spinal surgery. In addition, the authors describe their surgical experience with these clips and the follow-up results in 31 consecutive patients.

METHODS

The authors compared nonpenetrating titanium clips and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) sutures in relation to the water pressure that could be tolerated by sutured ePTFE sheets, and the leakage pressure patterns were determined. The changes in leakage pressures at 5 minutes, 30 minutes, and 12 hours were examined when the clips and sutures were used in combination with the mesh-and-glue technique in an in vitro study. Thirty-one patients underwent spinal intradural procedures using nonpenetrating titanium clips to suture the dura maters using the meshand-glue technique, involving fibrin glue and polyglycolic acid-fibrin sheets.

RESULTS

A significant difference was apparent between the ePTFE suture group and the nonpenetrating titanium clip group, with the latter showing a leakage pressure that could be sustained and was 1508% higher than that of the former (p = 0.001). In relation to leakage patterns, the nonpenetrating titanium clips did not make any suture holes in the ePTFE sheet and fluid leakage occurred between the clips, whereas fluid leakage was associated with the pressure elevation that occurred at the suture holes made by the ePTFE sutures. Of the 31 patients who underwent spinal intradural procedures using nonpenetrating titanium clips, 1 (3.2%) experienced cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage postoperatively. No other complications—for example, allergic reactions, adhesions, or infections—were encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

The interrupted placement of nonpenetrating titanium clips enables dural closure without creating any holes. These clips facilitate improvements in the initial leakage pressure and reduce postoperative CSF leakage following spinal surgery. The authors conclude that it is very beneficial to suture the spinal dura mater using nonpenetrating titanium clips given the anatomical characteristics of the spinal dura mater and the fact that the clips do not create suture holes.
Odontoid process inclination in normal adults and in an adult population with Chiari malformation Type I
Authors: Besachio David A. , Khaleel Ziyad , Shah Lubdha M.
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Posterior odontoid process inclination has been demonstrated as a factor associated with Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) in the pediatric population; however, no studies to date have examined this measurement in the adult CM-I population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate craniocervical junction (CCJ) measurements in adult CM-I versus a control group.

METHODS

The odontoid retroflexion, odontoid retroversion, odontoid height, posterior basion to C-2 line measured to the dural margin (pB-C2 line), posterior basion to C-2 line measured to the dorsal odontoid cortical margin (pB-C2* line), and clivus-canal angle measurements were retrospectively analyzed in adult patients with CM-I using MRI. These measurements were compared with normative values established from CT scans of the cervical spine in adults without CM-I.

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference was found between 55 adults with CM-I and 150 sex-matched controls (125 used for analysis) in the mean clivus-canal angle and the mean pB-C2 line.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that there are sex-specific differences with respect to measurements at the CCJ between men and women, with women showing a more posteriorly inclined odontoid process. There were also differences between the CM-I and control groups: a more acute clivus-canal angle was associated with CM-I in the adult population. These CCJ findings could have an influence on presurgical planning.
Avalanche character and fatalities in the high mountains of Asia
Authors: McClung D.M.
Published: August 2015

With the exception of northern India, there are few, if any, consistent data records relating to avalanche activity in the high mountains of Asia. However, records do exist of avalanche fatalities in the region, contained in mountaineering expedition reports. In this paper, I review and analyze statistics of avalanche fatalities (both snow and ice) in the high mountains of Asia (Himalaya, Karakoram, Pamir, Hindu Kush, Tien Shan, Dazu Shan) from 1895 to 2014. The data are stratified according to accident cause, geographical region (Nepal-Tibet (Xizang), Pakistan, India, China, Central Asia), mountain range, personnel (hired or expedition members) and terrain. The character of the accidents is compared with data from North America and Europe. The data show that the important risk components are the temporal and spatial exposure probabilities. It is shown that human actions and decisions govern the pattern of fatal avalanches in the high mountains of Asia.
Loss of First Permanent Molar Teeth in Patients Attending in OPDs of Selected Dental Hospitals in Dhaka City
Authors: Sumi Munira Jinat , Barua Jony , Jan Chowdhury Moin , Imtiaz Khondker Saif , Ahmed Ishraque , Ahmed Shahrear Tanvir
Published: August 2015

Teeth loss, especially first permanent molar teeth loss is the ultimate barometer of failure or success in dentistry and dental health programs. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 patients attending in outpatient department of selected dental hospitals in Dhaka city to find out the loss of first permanent molar teeth among them. Regarding age (34.8%) of the respondents were below 25 years followed by 25.5% between 25  35 years (mean age 33.16 ± 14.10 years). In case of educational status (31%) completed primary education followed by 16.2% were graduates and 33.3% were illiterates. Majority (59.5%) of the respondents had monthly family income below 5000 BDT (mean income 6802.39 ± 6630. 39 BDT). Among the respondents, 33.8% knew brushing technique and 79.5% of them brushed once in a day. Majority (68.5%) of them used tooth paste for brushing and tooth brush was used by 67.1% of the respondents. In case of first permanent molar tooth missing, 50% missed lower left, 19.6% lower right, 17.4% upper left and 13%  upper right. Among the respondents, 86% teeth loss was due to caries followed by periodontal disease (12.4%) and orthodontic reason (5.2%). Among the respondents who lost tooth, 55.7% were below 15 years followed by 15 - 30 years (34.3%) and above 30 years (10%). Regarding oral hygiene status, 19% had satisfactory and 81% had unsatisfactory oral hygiene. So it can be concluded that loss of permanent first molars can be avoided if good preventive measures are used before these teeth erupt and are continued after they have erupted in addition to maintaining proper oral hygiene. Further large scale study regarding this topic is recommended.Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 40-43
Management of Dental Health Problem of Diabetic Patients Attending in Selected Private Dental Clinic in Dhaka City
Authors: Abrar Ali , Chowdhury Kamrun Nahar , Rahman Md Mahafuzur , Rauf Bushra Marzan , Asad Abul Kalam Mohammad , Zahura Mst Kaniz Fatema Tuz , Islam Md Shirajul
Published: August 2015

Aim: The rising cases of dental problems among diabetic patients have raised health concerns among dentists worldwide. The oral complications of prime concern are gum disease, dental caries, dry mouth, oral soft tissue damage, and pain in the face and mouth. This descriptive type of cross sectional study was conducted among the diabetic patients for their management of dental problems attending in selected dental clinic in Dhaka city from January to June 2012. 44% of the patients were in between 41to 50 years age group.Methods:  Data were collected with a pretested semi structured questionnaire and check list was filled in after oral examination.Results: Among the patients 84% were Muslims and 16%. were Hindu. All the patients were married. 58% of the patients had monthly income TK. 25000-40000. Among the patients, 48% had (4-5) family members. Type of family was single for 82% of the patients. Main food was rice for 78% of the patients. 50% of the patients had habit of tobacco use. Tobacco smokers were 88%. Among the patients, calculus and gingivitis was in grade I for 54% and the condition of periodontitis was in grade I for 46%. The condition of oral thrush was in 0 grade for 66% of the patients. Most of the patients 1 tooth was affected by dental caries. There was no dry mouth in 80% of the patients, whereas no burning mouth syndrome was in 82% of the patients; 64% of the respondents visited dentists. The reason for visiting dentists, most of them visited for sensitivity. All the patients brushed teeth everyday. 66% of the patients brushed teeth once a day. Among the patients 66% cleaned teeth before breakfast and 52% took 3-4 minutes. Among the patients, 90% used tooth brush and 88% used tooth paste for cleaning the teeth. 84% of them did not floss and the rest 62.5% flossed teeth once a day, 62% got information about type of diabetes, among them 62.5% informed about non insulin dependent type of diabetes. Among the patients, 60% got information about usual oral hygiene, 75.9% got information about usual oral hygiene from doctors.Conclusion: Proper patient management requires close interaction between the dentist and the physician. Working with diabetic patients can be challenging and rewarding when open communications are established and thorough patient education is attained.Bangladesh Journal of Dental Research and Education Vol.5(2) 2015: 55-58
Enzymatic-Gravimetric Estimation of the Content and Composition of Insoluble Dietary Fiber in Selected Cereals, Pulses, and Starchy Roots and Tubers
Authors: Rahim Abu Torab MA , Akter Sanjida , Ahmed Nusrat
Published: August 2015

An enzymatic-gravimetric method was employed to determine the content of insoluble dietary fiber and lignin in 4 cereals, 5 pulses, 4 starchy roots, and 3 tubers along with some of their varieties. The cultivars were identified at Bangladesh Agriculture Research Council and noted as their high yielding varieties released within last decade for cultivation in Bangladesh. Insoluble dietary fiber content, equivalent to alpha-amylase treated neutral detergent fiber (termed as E-NDF), was in a range from 0.97 g to 10.45 g for cereals, 8.18 g to 25.66 g for pulses, 2.62 g to 6.88 g for roots, and 2.26 g to 8.11 g for tubers per 100 g raw sample. Cell wall polysaccharides and Lignin were estimated from the E-NDF fraction sequentially using the methods of Van Soest and co-workers. Hemicellulose was found dominant among cell-wall polysaccharides in all the studied materials (up to 24.85% in pulses). Cell wall polysaccharide and lignin were not detected in some of the studied samples. Highest amount of cellulose was found in 'Gourab' variety of wheat (3.48%) while highest amount of lignin was estimated in sweet potato (2.87%). The results will, thus, provide a source data for dietary calculations.