bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Facile One-Pot Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z)-α-Acyl-α,α-Unsaturated Esters from Alkynyl Esters and Aryl Acyl Chlorides
Authors: Jiang Jianwen , Liu Haiyi , Zhang Jiatao , Cai Mingzhong
Published: October 2012

( Z)-α-Acyl-α,β-unsaturated esters can be stereoselectively synthesised in one pot under mild conditions and in good yields by the palladium-catalysed hydrostannylation of alkynyl esters in benzene, followed by the Stille cross-coupling with aryl acyl chlorides using CuI as co-catalyst.
Pattern of Electrolyte Imbalance in Hospitalized Diabetic Patients: Experience in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Haque Hasna Fahmima , Amin Mohammad Gaffar , Uddin Khwaja Nazim , Ahmed Jamal Uddin , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Dewan Pratik , Samad Tabassum
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) is the largest specialized hospital in Bangladesh for care of diabetic patients. Here, most of the hospitalized patients are diabetic, having many complications of diabetes mellitus and other co-morbidities. They often require multiple drugs for treatment. Diabetes mellitus itself, its complications and various medicationsall are related to development of electrolyte imbalance, which are often under-estimated or remain un-diagnosed. Objectives: The Objectives of this study were to see the pattern of electrolyte imbalance in hospitalized diabetic patients and to find out the precipitating causes behind them. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in the Department of Internal Medicine, BIRDEM in 2008. Data were collected by random sampling from the first 100 adult diabetic patients with electrolyte imbalance, irrespective of their cause of admission. Results: Total number of patients were 100, male were 74 and female were 26 (M:F ratio 2.85: 1). Mean age was 60.18 years with standard deviation of ± 12.15 years (Range 38- 90 years). Among the patients, the mean duration of the diabetes mellitus was 10.96 years with standard deviation ± 8.05 years. Majority (83%) of the patients were on insulin, 22% were on oral anti-diabetic agents and 6% were on medical nutrition therapy. Among the co-morbidities, hypertention was the most prevalent (61%), followed by ischaemic heart disease (24%), chronic kidney disease (21%), dyslipidaemia (8%) and fatty liver (4%). Diabetic peripheral neuropathy was present in 41% cases, nephropathy in 13% cases and retinopathy in 12% cases. Over all 78% (100 patients had electrolyte imbalance out of 128 patients) of patients had some sort of electrolyte imbalance, irrespective of cause of admission. Hyponatraemia was the most common electrolyte imbalance in this study (80%), followed by hypomagnaesemia (38%), hypokalaemia (36%) and hyperkalaemia (14%). In 11% cases there were hyponatraemia, hypokalaemia and hypomagnaesemia. Regarding the precipitating factors, vomiting was most common (51%). In 28% cases electrolyte imbalance was precipitated by various drugs. Diarrhea and renal failure were responsible in a minority of cases. In 4% cases no cause could be identified. No death occurred. Conclusion: From this cross-sectional study it can be concluded that, electrolyte imbalance is common in hospitalized diabetic patients. Serum electrolytes should be checked routinely in hospitalized diabetic patients irrespective of their purpose of admission. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12355 Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 14-18
Risk Factors for Mortality in Neonates with Birth Weight <1500 gm
Authors: Baki Md Abdul , Haque Afroza , Mohsin Fauzia , Nahar Jebun , Akhter Shahida , Begum Tahmina , Nahar Nazmun
Published: October 2012

Background and objective: Neonates with birth weight <1500 gm constitute approximately 4-7% of all live births. Mortality in this group is very high, contributing to as much as 30% of early neonatal death. This study was done to evaluate the morbidities associated with preterm neonates with birth weight < 1500 gm and possible factors determining the death of these babies. Methods: This study was done at Special Care Baby Unit (SCABU), BIRDEM Hospital from January to October 2010. The medical records of neonates with birth weight <1500 gm admitted in SCABU during the study period were retrospectively reviewed. The outcome measure was in-hospital death. Univariate analysis was done to determine the risk factors of mortality. Results: Total 64 babies with birth weight <1500 gm were admitted during this study period. Mean gestational age was 30.76 (± 2.97) weeks, mean birth weight was 1182 (±283) gm. Jaundice (59.4%), Thrombocytopenia (57.8%), apnoea (53.15), sepsis (45.3%) feeding intolerance (43.8%), and RDS (23.4%) were common co-morbidities in these neonates. Among 64 babies more than one-third died (36%). Risk factors for mortality were gestational age less than 30 wks (OR: 7.73; 95% CI: 2.43-24.53), weight <1000 gm (OR: 4.93; 95% CI: 1.28-18.87), RDS (OR: 13.81; 95% CI: 13.81- 57.86) and baby who required mechanical ventilation (OR: 61.66; 95% CI: 12.54- 303.22). Conclusion: Extreme low birth weight (birth weight <1000 gm), prematurity (gestational age <30 wks) and RDS were the significant risk factors for mortality in this study population. Prevention of prematurity and appropriate management of RDS may reduce the mortality of these neonates. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12356 Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 19-22
HbA1C Level in 2nd and 3rd Trimester with Pregnancy Outcome in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Sengupta Ruma , Jesmen Soha , Banu Laila Arjuman , Habib Samir Humyra
Published: October 2012

Objective: The present study was undertaken to determine the association of maternal serum HbA1C level with maternal and fetal outcome. Materials and Methods: It was prospective observational study. The study was carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in BIRDEM Hospital during the period of September 2006 to August 2007. During this study period, 100 pregnant patient with diabetes who attended or admitted at BIRDEM Hospital were studied. Estimation of serum HbA1C level was done in all patient in each trimester. From each patient 5 c.c blood was taken & HbA1C level was measured with the help of enzymatic method. HbA1C level < 6 was considered as normal. .The maternal complications in antenatal period, in postpartum period, during labour & fetal outcome were studied in both cases of controlled & uncontrolled HbA1C level. Result: In this study serum HbA1C level was found raised in uncontrolled diabetic patients. The incidence of vulvovaginitis, preterm delivery and polyhydramnios were significantly high in 2nd and 3rd trimester in raised HbA1C level. The rate of normal vaginal delivery was higher in patient with normal HbA1C leve uncontrolled HbA1C level (17.59% Vs 10.84%, p = 0.01), which statistically significant. Post partum haemorrhage (PPH) was significantly higher in raised HbA1C level than normal (0.00% Vs 22.20%, p =0.01) in NVD and (0.00% Vs 16.22%, p = 0.01) in Caesarean section. Neonatal complications were higher in raised HbA1C level than normal. The incidence of Hypoglycemia (5.88% Vs 38.55%, p = 0.02); Hyperbilirubinemia (11.76% Vs 33.73%, p = 0.03) ; RDS (0.00% Vs 12.05%, p = 0.02); Macrosomia (0.00% Vs 18.07%,p = 0.01) and Birth asphyxia (5.88% Vs. 12.05%, p = 0.04). These differences are statistically significant. Conclusion: There is increasing evidence that the raised level of maternal serum HbA1C in antenatal period is associated with maternal & neonatal complications. By investigating HbA1C level in each trimester, blood sugar control can be done. This study was taken out to evaluate the usefulness of HbA1C for good glycaemic control in diabetic pregnancy. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12358 Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 23-28
Correlation Between Transabdominal Sonographically Measured Prostate Volume with Anthropometric Factor in Normal Healthy Subjects
Authors: Monowara Mahmuda , Ahmed Akhter Uddin , Mohiuddin Abu Saleh , Taher Mohammad Abu , Nasrin Zinat , Hossain Mohammad Mahbub
Published: October 2012

To investigate the relationship between total prostate volume with anthropometric factor like age, height, weight and BMI. This can be useful in assessing the normality of prostate gland.Method: In 42 normal healthy subjects the length, anteroposterior and transverse diameters of prostate gland were measured & prostate volumes were calculated by using prolate ellipse formula. Age, height, weight of the subjects were recorded and body mass index calculated accordingly.Result: Correlation co-efficient or r test was used to find out the relationship between the variables. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Total prostatic volume correlation coefficient with age, weight and BMI were 0.907, 0.883 and 0.352 (p<0.001) respectively, but no significant correlation (r=0.133; p>0.05) was found between prostatic volume and height.Conclusion: Total prostate volume has a strong significant linear relationship & age, weight & BMI. But height does not correlate significantly with total prostate volume. Thus anthropometric factors like age, weight, BMI can therefore be used to predict prostate volume prior to ultrasound. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12359 Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 29-32
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Review
Authors: Datta Indrajit Kumar , Rahman Md Anisur , Bhuiyan Tareq M , Kabir Md Mohsin
Published: October 2012

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may be the most common liver disease in the world, with a high prevalence in the obese, type 2 diabetic populations, and it is probably underestimated as a cause for cirrhosis. Clinicopathologically, it represents a wide spectrum of histologic abnormalities and clinical outcomes, ranging from benign hepatic steatosis to cirrhosis. Pathophysiologically, insulin resistance is thought to be pivotal in the development of steatosis, after which a second oxidative stressor produces lipid peroxidation and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Liver biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis and prognosis. The need for an effective treatment is both clear and urgent, yet in the absence of proven therapies, treatment is directed toward weight loss and comorbidity management. For patients with NAFLD at risk of disease progression, there is a lack of large, randomized, placebo-controlled trials of adequate treatment duration, with baseline stratification according to histologic severity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12360 Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 33-43
Biologics - Newer Treatment Option for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review
Authors: Rahim MA , Uddin KN , Zaman S , Ahmed AKMS , Ahmed JU , Hossain MD , Musa AKM , Samad T , Haque HF , Dewan P , Kabir MS , Rahman MR
Published: October 2012

Better understanding of pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has enabled researchers to introduce newer agents for treatment of RA. These new agents, known as biological response modifiers or biologics, singly or commonly, in combination with other conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, seem to be better in patients acceptability, tolerance, clinical and radiological response. These drugs are responsible for significant immune-suppression, may result in sepsis and reactivation of per se latent infections. Some agents are suspected to be related to cancer development. The higher cost and significant adverse effects are important concerns in clinical use of biological agents in RA.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12361Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 44-51
Quiz: Images in Clinical Practice
Authors: Safder AMB
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12366Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 66-69
Answer to Quiz (BIRDEM Med J 2011; 1(1): 54)
Authors: Safdar AMB
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12367Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 70
BIRDEM News Vol.2(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12368Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 72
Names of the Reviewers of Articles in Vol.2(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/birdem.v2i1.12370Birdem Med J 2012; 2(1) 74
Extracting Hierarchies from Data Clusters for Better Classification
Authors: Sapozhnikov German , Ulanov Alexander
Published: October 2012

In this paper we present the PHOCS-2 algorithm, which extracts a “Predicted Hierarchy Of ClassifierS”. The extracted hierarchy helps us to enhance performance of flat classification. Nodes in the hierarchy contain classifiers. Each intermediate node corresponds to a set of classes and each leaf node corresponds to a single class. In the PHOCS-2 we make estimation for each node and achieve more precise computation of false positives, true positives and false negatives. Stopping criteria are based on the results of the flat classification. The proposed algorithm is validated against nine datasets.
Power Plants, Steam and Gas Turbines WebQuest
Authors: Ulloa Carlos , Rey Guillermo D. , Sánchez Ángel , Cancela Ángeles
Published: October 2012

A WebQuest is an Internet-based and inquiry-oriented learning activity. The aim of this work is to outline the creation of a WebQuest entitled “Power Generation Plants: Steam and Gas Turbines.” This is one of the topics covered in the course “Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer,” which is offered in the second year of Mechanical Engineering at the Defense University Center at the Naval Academy in Vigo, Spain. While participating in the activity, students will be divided into groups of no more than 10 for seminars. The groups will create PowerPoint presentations that include all of the analyzed aspects. The topics to be discussed during the workshop on power plant turbines are the: (1) principles of operation; (2) processes involved; (3) advantages and disadvantages; (4) efficiency; (5) combined cycle; and (6) transversal competences, such as teamwork, oral and written presentations, and analysis and synthesis of information. This paper presents the use of Google Sites as a guide to the WebQuest so that students can access all information online, including instructions, summaries, resources, and information on qualifications.
Diversity, Vertical Stratification and Co-Occurrence Patterns of the Mycetophilid Community among Eastern Hemlock, Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carrière, in the Southern Appalachians
Authors: Coots Carla , Lambdin Paris , Grant Jerome , Rhea Rusty
Published: October 2012

Over 400 species of insects have been found in association with eastern hemlock in the southern Appalachians. Eastern hemlock stands provide an ideal habitat for all life stages of mycetophilids. However, the diversity, distribution and co-occurrence patterns of these species throughout the tree canopy are unknown. This study was initiated to evaluate abundance, species richness and species composition within three designated strata in the canopy of eastern hemlock, assess species for vertical stratification patterns, and determine if co-occurrence patterns of mycetophilid species are random or non-random. During this study, 24 species representing 14 genera were identified and evaluated. Mycetophilid abundance, species richness and composition differed among the lower, middle, and upper strata. Unique assemblages were identified in each stratum, indicating vertical stratification. The upper stratum of the canopy had four exclusive species, the middle had six exclusive species, and the lower stratum had nine exclusive species. The co-occurrence pattern of mycetophilid species in the canopy of eastern hemlock was non-random.
cDNA Cloning and Expression Analysis of Pattern Recognition Proteins from the Chinese Oak Silkmoth, Antheraea pernyi
Authors: Li Fengjuan , Terenius Olle , Li Yuan , Fang Suyun , Li Wenli
Published: October 2012

Pattern recognition receptors play an important role in insect immune defense. We cloned the β-1,3-glucan recognition protein, lectin-5 and C-type lectin 1 genes of Antheraea pernyi and examined the expression profiles of immune-stimulated pupae. After infection with Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Antheraea pernyi nuclear polyhedrosis virus (ApNPV) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, respectively, the pupae showed different gene expression levels in the different tissues examined (midgut, fatbody, epidermis, testis, and hemocytes). ApβGRP and Aplectin-5 was induced by all the microorganisms, and mainly in epidermis and hemocytes, but not in testis; Aplectin-5 was also expressed in fatbody. Ap C-type lectin 1 was, on the contrary, highly expressed in testis and also in fatbody, but not in hemocytes. Unlike ApβGRP and Aplectin-5, Ap C-type lectin 1 was not induced by Gram-positive bacteria. The results suggest that the cloned lectins may have different functions in different tissues of A. pernyi.
A Novel Antibacterial Compound from Siegesbeckia glabrescens
Authors: Kim Young-Soo , Kim Hyungil , Jung Eunsun , Kim Jang-Hyun , Hwang Wangtaek , Kang Eun-Ju , Lee Sanghyun , Ha Byung-Jo , Lee Jongsung , Park Deokhoon
Published: October 2012

The crude methanol extract of the dried aerial parts of Siegesbeckia glabrescens (Compositae) showed antibacterial activity against the foodborne pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Bioactivity-guided separation led to the isolation of 3-(dodecanoyloxy)-2-(isobutyryloxy)-4-methylpentanoic acid from nature for the first time. The structure was determined by spectroscopic data analysis (UV, MS, and NMR). The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3-(dodecanoyloxy)-2-(isobutyryloxy)-4-methylpentanoic acid against S. aureus was found to be 3.12 μg/mL. In addition, in a further antimicrobial activity assay against Gram-positive (B. subtilis, E. faecalis, P. acnes, S. epidermidis, S. schleiferi subsp. coagulans, S. agalactiae and S. pyrogens), and Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli and P. aeruginosa), and yeast strains (C. alibicans and F. neoformans), the antimicrobial activity of the compound was found to be specific for Gram-positive bacteria. The MIC values of the compound for Gram-positive bacteria ranged from 3.12 to 25 mg/mL. Furthermore, it was found that the 2-(isobutyryloxy)-4-methylpentanoic acid substituent may operate as a key factor in the antibacterial activity of the compound, together with the laurate group.
Antioxidant, Lipoxygenase and Histone Deacetylase Inhibitory Activities of Acridocarpus orientalis From Al Ain and Oman
Authors: Ksiksi Taoufik , Hamza Alaaeldin
Published: October 2012

Acridocarpus orientalis (AO) is a traditional medicinal plant used for treatment of inflammatory diseases that may have potential in cancer treatment. In the present study, the aqueous ethanolic crude extract of Acridocarpus aerial parts obtained from Al Ain and Oman were evaluated for their antioxidant capability, polyphenolic content, anti-lipoxygenase and anti-histone deacetylase (HDAC) properties. The total antioxidant capacity was estimated by the FRAP, DPPH, ABTS and b-carotene bleaching assays. Acridocarpus-Al Ain exhibited the highest polyphenolic content (184.24 mg gallic acid/g) and the best antioxidant activity (1.1, 1.04, 1.14 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g in the FRAP, ABTS and DPPH assays, respectively). Additionally, the same extract showed significant anti-inflammatory properties via lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitory activity (IC50 = 50.58 µg/mL). Acridocarpus-Al Ain also showed the strongest histone deacetylase (HDACs) inhibitory activity (IC50 = 93.28 µg/mL). The results reported here suggest that there was a significant influence of location and the plant may be considered a good source of compounds with antioxidant, anti-LOX and HDAC properties for therapeutic, nutraceutical and functional food applications.
A Minor Dihydropyran Apocarotenoid from Mated Cultures of Blakeslea trispora
Authors: Barrero Alejandro , Herrador M. , Artega Pilar , González José-Antonio , Arteaga Jesús
Published: October 2012

The heterocyclic C15 apocarotenoid 1 was isolated from mated cultures of the strains F986 (+) and F921 (−) of Blakeslea trispora. This new compound formed during sexual interaction is a minor constituent of the culture media and its structure was elucidated by spectroscopic data, including 2D-NMR. A plausible biosynthetic pathway involving a double degradation of β-carotene, followed by several oxidations of the resulting monocyclofarnesane C15 fragment is proposed.
Antioxidant Activity and Phytochemical Composition of the Leaves of Solanum guaraniticum A. St.-Hil
Authors: Zadra Marina , Piana Mariana , Brum Thiele Faccim de , Boligon Aline Augusti , Freitas Robson Borba de , Machado Michel Mansur , Stefanello Sílvio Terra , Soares Félix Alexandre Antunes , Athayde Margareth Linde
Published: October 2012

Solanum guaraniticum is a shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family popularly known in Brazil as jurubeba or false-jurubeba. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of crude extract and chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions from its leaves, verifying the ability to remove reactive species and identify and quantify phenolic compounds. The ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest amount of total polyphenols (546.57 ± 2.35 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) and the lowest IC50 (9.11 ± 0.75 µg/mL) by the DPPH method. Furthermore, the chloroform fraction presented the highest content of flavonoids (75.73 ± 0.34 mg rutin equivalents/g), tannins (56.03 ± 0.68 mg catechin equivalents/g) and alkaloids (10.79 ± 0.06 mg/g). This fraction was effective in the scavenging of reactive species by 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate assay, in addition to completely reducing protein carbonyl content and reducing lipid peroxidation at basal levels even at low concentrations. Chlorogenic, caffeic and rosmarinic acids were identified and quantified by HPLC/DAD. These results show that S. guaraniticum is rich in phenolic compounds and has potential as an antioxidant.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Overexpressing Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Inhibit Collagen Deposit and Improve Bladder Function in Rat Model of Bladder Outlet Obstruction
Authors: Song Yun Seob , Lee Hong Jun , Doo Seung Hwan , Lee Sun Ju , Lim Inja , Chang Kyu-Tae , Kim Seung U.
Published: October 2012

Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) caused by collagen deposit is one of the most common problems in elderly male. This study was performed to examine the capability of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) overexpressing hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) to inhibit collagen deposition in rat model of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). HGF is known for its antifibrotic effect and the most promising agent for treating bladder fibrosis. BM3.B10 stable immortalized human MSC line (B10) was transduced to encode human HGF with a retroviral vector was prepared (B10.HGF). Two weeks after the onset of BOO, B10, and B10.HGF cells were injected into the rat's bladder wall. After 4 weeks, bladder tissues were harvested and Masson's trichrome staining was performed. Transgene expression in HGF-expressing B10 cells was demonstrated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining, and the high levels of HGF secreted by B10. HGF cells was confirmed by ELISA. The mean bladder weight in BOO rats was 5.8 times of the normal controls, while in animals grafted with B10.HGF cells, the weight was down to four times of the control [90.2 ± 1.6 (control), 89.9 ± 2.8 (sham), 527.9 ± 150.9 (BOO), 447.7 ± 41.0 (BOO + B10), and 362.7 ± 113.2 (BOO + B10. HGF)]. The mean percentage of collagen area increased in BOO rats, while in the animals transplanted with B10.HGF cells, the collagen area decreased to the normal control level [12.2 ± 1.3, (control), 12.8 ± 1.1 (sham), 26.6 ± 2.7 (BOO), 19.9 ± 6.0 (BOO + B10), and 13.3 ± 2.1 (BOO + B10.HGF)]. The expression of collagen and TGF-β protein increased after BOO, while the expression of HGF and c-met protein increased in the group with B10.HGF transplantation after BOO. Intercontraction interval decreased after BOO, but it recovered after B10.HGF transplantation. Maximal voiding pressure (MVP) increased after BOO, and it recovered to levels of the normal control after transplantation of B10.HGF cells. Residual urine volume (RU) increased after BOO, but the RU increase was not reversed by transplantation of B10.HGF cells. Human MSCs overexpressing HGF inhibited collagen deposition and improved cystometric parameters in bladder outlet obstruction of rats. The present study indicates that transplantation of MSCs modified to overexpress HGF could serve as a novel therapeutic strategy against bladder fibrosis in patients with bladder outlet obstruction.
Human Pancreatic Islet Preparations Release HMGB1: (Ir)Relevance for Graft Engraftment
Authors: Nano Rita , Racanicchi Leda , Melzi Raffaella , Mercalli Alessia , Maffi Paola , Sordi Valeria , Ling Zhidong , Scavini Marina , Korsgren Olle , Celona Barbara , Secchi Antonio , Piemonti Lorenzo
Published: October 2012

High levels of donor-derived high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein have been associated with poor islet graft outcome in mouse models. The aim of our work was to determine whether HMGB1 released by human islets had independent proinflammatory effects that influence engraftment in humans. Human islet preparations contained and released HMGB1 in different amounts, as determined by Western blot and ELISA (median 17 pg/ml/IEQ/24 h; min–max 0–211, n = 74). HMGB1 release directly correlated with brain death, donor hyperamilasemia, and factors related to the pancreas digestion procedure (collagenase and digestion time). HMGB1 release was significantly positively associated with the release of other cytokines/chemokines, particularly with the highly released “proinflammatory” CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL1/GRO-α, and the IFN-γ-inducible chemokines CXCL10/IP-10 and CXCL9/MIG. HMGB1 release was not modulated by Toll-like receptor 2, 3, 4, 5, and 9 agonists or by exposure to IL-1β. When evaluated after islet transplantation, pretransplant HMGB1 release was weakly associated with the activation of the coagulation cascade (evaluated as serum cross-linked fibrin products), but not with the immediate posttransplant inflammatory response. Concordantly, HMGB1 did not affect short-term human islet function. Our data show that human islet HMGB1 release is a sign of “damaged” islets, although without any independent direct role in graft failure.
Strong differences in genetic structure across disjunct, edge, and core populations of the distylous forest herbPulmonaria officinalis(Boraginaceae)
Authors: Meeus Sofie , Honnay Olivier , Jacquemyn Hans
Published: October 2012

•Premise of the study:Populations at the edge of a species’ distribution area are often small and have low levels of gene flow resulting in lower genetic variation and higher differentiation compared to core populations. This study examined genetic variation among populations of the distylous temperate forest herbPulmonaria officinalislocated in the core, the edge, and outside the species’ main distribution range.

•Methods:We compared patterns of genetic variation for eight microsatellite loci between disjunct (Belgium), edge (western Germany), and core (eastern Germany) populations ofP. officinalis.

•Key results:Disjunct populations contained only a subset of alleles found in edge and core populations and had significantly lower within‐population genetic variation. No significant differences, however, in within‐population genetic variation were found between edge and core populations, except for allelic and genotypic richness. Genetic differentiation was highest among disjunct (FST= 0.11) and lowest among core populations (FST= 0.03). Significant (P< 0.01) isolation by distance was found for disjunct and edge populations (rM= 0.29 and 0.50, respectively), but not for core populations (rM= 0.18).

•Conclusions:The results are best interpreted from a “dynamic range” point of view in which the observed low levels of genetic diversity and high genetic differentiation in disjunct populations are best explained through historical processes, most likely the introduction of the species in medieval times. Lower levels of gene flow caused by the pronounced fragmentation of forests in Belgium may further have contributed to the genetic structure ofP. officinalisin these disjunct populations.
Rethinking therapeutic decisions for hepatitis B infection in Syria: insights into molecular monitoring
Authors: Habbal Wafa , Monem Fawza
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus patients are usually treated in Syria with alpha interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogues. Genotypic viral factors causing inadequate response or relapse following initial response are not routinely investigated. This study aimed to explore and discuss local therapeutic decisions from a molecular perspective. Methodology: Fifty patients with hepatitis B from Syria were tested for HBV genotyping and drug-resistance mutations by DNA sequencing. Results: All patients had genotype D, which is characterized by relatively low response to interferon-based therapy. Drug-resistant viral mutant variants were detected in one fifth of the enrolled patients, and distributed similarly in both nucleos(t)ide analogues-naïve and -treated patients. However, nucleos(t)ide analogues-based therapy was associated with the existence of more mutations and hence increased resistance. Conclusions: Investigating HBV genotypes and drug-resistance mutations to support treatment decisions is critically needed for efficient therapy and patients’ survival.
Outbreak of cutaneous anthrax in Musalimadugu village, Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh, India, July-August 2011
Authors: Reddy Ramesh , Parasadini Geetha , Rao Prasada , Uthappa Chengappa K , Murhekar Manoj V
Published: October 2012

Background: In August 2011, Chittoor district authorities reported a cluster of suspected human anthrax cases, to Andhra Pradesh state surveillance unit. We investigated this cluster to confirm its etiology, describe its magnitude, identify potential risk-factors and make recommendations for preventing similar outbreaks in future. Methods: We searched for suspected cutaneous anthrax cases defined as a painless skin lesion (papule, vesicle or eschar) that appeared between July-August 2011 in resident of Musalimadugu. We collected information about clinical details as well as smears from skin lesions from suspected case-patients and described the outbreak by time, place and person.We conducted a retrospective cohort study among villagers aged ≥ 15 years to identify risk factors for acquiring the infection. Results: During 24 June-7August 2011, 16 livestock in the village died. Smears from 5 animals showed gram positive, spore bearing, bacillus characteristic of Bacillus anthracis. Villagers butchered and skinned the dead animals, sold the skin and consumed the meat after boiling it for 2 hours. The outbreak in humans started on 30 July, and 9 suspected cases of cutaneous anthrax (attack rate: 2%, no deaths) occurred till 7 August. The attack rate was higher among those aged 15 years or more. All the smears were negative on gram staining. Persons who had handled [Relative risk (RR): 56, 95% confidence interval (CI): 8.4 -571.8, population attributable fraction (PAF): 87%)], skinned (RR: 28, 95% CI: 8.4-93, PAF=54%) and slaughtered (RR: 21, 95% CI: 6.5-68.4, PAF: 42%) dead animals were at higher risk. Conclusions: We recommended ciprofloxacin prophylaxis to close family contacts, community education to avoid slaughtering of dead/ ill livestock and vaccination of the livestock in the area.
L'art (tout) contre le sport ?
Authors: Mennesson Christine , Julhe Samuel
Published: October 2012

Résumé À partir d’une vingtaine de portraits de familles d’enfants de cinq à onze ans pratiquant au moins une activité associative de loisirs, l’article analyse dans quelle mesure les configurations familiales structurent les modalités de transmission d’un goût pour les activités artistiques et/ou sportives. En effet, même si le modèle de l’omnivore semble s’imposer dans les milieux favorisés, les membres des classes dominantes n’ont pas tous le même rapport à l’éclectisme. Partant de l’idée d’une division du travail de domination développée par Bourdieu, cette recherche distingue d’une part, la situation des familles de la petite bourgeoisie intellectuelle, et d’autre part, celle des familles des cadres du secteur privé. Du côté des professions intellectuelles, les familles développent des affinités à l’égard de la « culture cultivée », accompagnées d’un investissement plus modéré dans la sphère sportive, jugée plus secondaire. Inversement, du côté du secteur privé, les parents tendent davantage à investir le monde sportif, plus proche de leur ethos professionnel.
The Clinical Instructor Role in Nursing Education: A Structured Literature Review
Authors: Dahlke Sherry , Baumbusch Jennifer , Affleck Frances , Kwon Jae-Young
Published: October 2012

A structured literature review was conducted to understand clinical instructors’ perceptions of their role and the factors that facilitate and constrain their teaching in undergraduate nursing programs. The literature published in English between 2000 and 2011 was searched, and data were extracted from 15 articles that met the inclusion criteria. The analysis identified four themes—characteristics of the role, characteristics of effective clinical teaching, influence of the clinical context on the role, and influence of the academic context on the role. Clinical instructors are portrayed as needing to be good educators, as well as excellent clinicians. However, they often lack formal education and professional development opportunities related to the role and must draw on their individual personal and professional experiences to guide their teaching to meet the demands of both the clinical and academic contexts in which they simultaneously work.
Orbital Infarction Syndrome After Transcanalicular Dacryocystorhinostomy With Diode Laser
Authors: Yeniad Baris , Tuncer Samuray , Kir Nur , Bilgin Lale Kozer
Published: October 2012

Orbital infarction syndrome is a rare but devastating disorder resulting in sudden visual loss. A patient with orbital infarction syndrome due to orbital cellulitis after transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy with diode laser is described. A 55-year-old woman presented 3 days after transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy. Initial examination revealed significant eyelid swelling, marked proptosis, total ophthalmoplegia, and no light perception in the right eye. Fundus examination revealed ophthalmic artery occlusion. The clinical findings of the patient were consistent with orbital infarction syndrome. Clinical findings improved with antibiotic therapy, but visual acuity did not change.
L’edizione critica delle liriche medievali: considerazioni dall’Italia
Authors: Brunetti Giuseppina
Published: October 2012

Cet article propose une réflexion sur l’édition des textes lyriques médiévaux en Italie. Adopter une perspective « nationale » permet d’évaluer la validité des méthodes d’édition et de leurs paradigmes interprétatifs (comme par exemple la méthode « translachmannienne »). On songe notamment aux expériences critiques de Pasquali, Debenedetti et Barbi mais également à celles de Contini, Segre, Roncaglia, Varvaro ou Antonelli. La critique textuelle doit cependant dépasser ces paradigmes et adopter un point de vue philologique comparatif. La lecture d’un texte nécessitant toujours une interprétation historique, on peut affirmer qu’il possède des variantes mais pas de variance: cette soi-disant mouvance apparaît plus comme une tendance à l’« atomisation » du texte que comme un outil herméneutique réellement efficace. En conclusion de l’essai, on trouvera un exemple d’édition expérimentale d’un ancien texte italien de Giacomino Pugliese.
La Divine Comédie de Dante Alighieri : une relecture biographique à des fins eschatologiques
Authors: Guimbard Catherine
Published: October 2012

Cet article retrace le parcours biographique et poétique de Dante en tant qu’itinéraire orienté vers une renovatio spirituale. Il analyse le rôle que jouent l’amour, la philosophie et la théologie dans cette rénovation.
Manuscrit de base et variantes de tradition dans le Chevalier de la charrette
Authors: Asperti Stefano , Menichetti Caterina , Rachetta Maria Teresa
Published: October 2012

Ces dernières décennies, les nouvelles technologies ont mis à la disposition des chercheurs une quantité considérable de ressources et de donnés. Pour le Conte de la Charrette de Chrétien de Troyes, ce progrès est dû principalement au Projet homonyme de Foulet et Uitti et à ses prolongements. Cependant, les nouveaux matériaux sont restés en marge des discussions de critique textuelle. Le débat autour du texte du roman de Chrétien s’est en effet polarisé sur la validité du texte transmis par la copie de Guiot (BNF, fr. 794) – employée pourtant comme manuscrit de base dans toutes les éditions les plus récentes. Nous proposons ici une approche différente du problème en vue de valoriser le riche patrimoine de variantes repérables dans la tradition manuscrite tout en préservant la lisibilité du roman. Nous soumettons donc à la réflexion une présentation du texte dans laquelle un commentaire de la varia lectio est relié à une « version de base ». Nous livrons cinq exemples pour lesquels nous croyons qu’une nouvelle évaluation de la varia lectio permet de mieux apprécier la richesse - en terme de lexique, de langue poétique, finalement de qualité littéraire - du texte de Chrétien.
Quality Assurance and Evaluation of Healthcare Reform Initiatives
Authors: Rosiek Anna Beata , Leksowski Krzysztof
Published: October 2012

This article describes a model of health-care services that ensure the high quality of health-care service and effective brand creation for a hospital. The problems described here that are connected to improving the quality of health care in Poland indicates that high quality of health care builds a positive and strong image of a health-care unit on the medical market. The contents of this article involve basic definitions of quality in health care and also the way the quality is understood and perceived from patient’s and hospital’s point of view. The article also describes a health care quality model, to which health care units should aspire in order to create a positive picture of said units, simultaneously improving and maintaining high quality of health care services. The article investigates the quality factors of health care services, which influence the healthcare units’ brand, its functioning on the market and patient-perceived quality of services. The described management model, which ensures efficient brand-building of healthcare units through services’ quality, takes into account changes in healthcare system and does so in order to ensure the improvement in healthcare units’ functioning.
A Comparative Study of Clustering Algorithms
Authors: AlFalahi Kanna , Harous Saad , Atif Yacine
Published: October 2012

Clustering is a major problem when dealing with organizing and dividing data. There are multiple algorithms proposed to handle this issue in many scientific areas such as classifications, community detection and collaborative filtering. The need for clustering arises in Social Networks where huge data generated daily and different relations are established between users. The ability to find groups of interest in a network can help in many aspects to provide different services such as targeted advertisements. The authors surveyed different clustering algorithms from three different clustering groups: Hierarchical, Partitional, and Density-based algorithms. They then discuss and compare these algorithms from social web point view and show their strength and weaknesses in handling social web data. They also use a case study to support our finding by applying two clustering algorithms on articles collected from Delicious.com and discussing the different groups generated by each algorithm.
Lipopolysaccharide and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Cooperate To Induce Inflammatory Molecules and Leukocyte Adhesion in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Fernández-Pisonero Isabel , Dueñas Ana I. , Barreiro Olga , Montero Olimpio , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , García-Rodríguez Carmen
Published: October 2012

Given that TLRs and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) are key players in inflammation, we explored the potential interplay between TLRs and S1P in the adhesion/inflammatory pathways in primary human endothelial cells. As determined by Western blot and flow cytometry, cells treated with LPS (a TLR4 ligand) and S1P showed significantly enhanced expression of adhesion molecules such as ICAM-1 and E-selectin compared with the effect of either ligand alone. Cell-type differences on E-selectin upregulation were observed. In contrast, no cooperation effect on ICAM-1 or E-selectin was observed with a TLR2/TLR1 ligand. Consistent with an increase in adhesion molecule expression, endothelial cell treatment with LPS plus S1P significantly enhanced adhesion of PBMCs under shear stress conditions compared with the effect of either ligand alone and exhibited comparable levels of cell adhesion strength as those after TNF-α treatment. Moreover, LPS and S1P cooperated to increase the expression of proinflammatory molecules such as IL-6, cyclooxygenase-2, and prostacyclin, as determined by ELISA and Western blot. The analysis of signaling pathways revealed the synergistic phosphorylation of ERK upon LPS plus S1P treatment of HUVEC and human aortic endothelial cells and cell-type differences on p38 and NF-κB activation. Moreover, pharmacological and small interfering RNA experiments disclosed the involvement of S1P1/3 and NF-κB in the cooperation effect and that cell origin determines the S1P receptors and signaling routes involved. Sphingosine kinase activity induction upon LPS plus S1P treatment suggests S1P– Sphingosine kinase axis involvement. In summary, LPS and S1P cooperate to increase proinflammatory molecules in endothelial cells and, in turn, to augment leukocyte adhesion, thus exacerbating S1P-mediated proadhesive/proinflammatory properties.
Use of Rapid Diagnostic Tests in Malaria School Surveys in Kenya: Does their Under-performance Matter for Planning Malaria Control?
Authors: Gitonga Caroline W. , Kihara Jimmy H. , Njenga Sammy M. , Awuondo Ken , Noor Abdisalan M. , Snow Robert W. , Brooker Simon J.
Published: October 2012

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are known to yield false-positive results, and their use in epidemiologic surveys will overestimate infection prevalence and potentially hinder efficient targeting of interventions. To examine the consequences of using RDTs in school surveys, we compared three RDT brands used during a nationwide school survey in Kenya with expert microscopy and investigated the cost implications of using alternative diagnostic approaches in identifying localities with differing levels of infection. Overall, RDT sensitivity was 96.1% and specificity was 70.8%. In terms of classifying districts and schools according to prevalence categories, RDTs were most reliable for the < 1% and > 40% categories and least reliable in the 1–4.9% category. In low-prevalence settings, microscopy was the most expensive approach, and RDT results corrected by either microscopy or polymerase chain reaction were the cheapest. Use of polymerase chain reaction–corrected RDT results is recommended in school malaria surveys, especially in settings with low-to-moderate malaria transmission.
Acute Chagas Disease in a Returning Traveler
Authors: Carter Yvonne L. , Juliano Jonathan J. , Montgomery Susan P. , Qvarnstrom Yvonne
Published: October 2012

Acute Chagas disease is rarely recognized, and the risk for acquiring the disease is undefined in travelers to Central America. We describe a case of acute Chagas disease in a traveler to Costa Rica and highlight the need for increased awareness of this infection in travelers to Chagas-endemic areas.
Aerosol forcing based on CAM5 and AM3 meteorological fields
Authors: Zhou C. , Penner J. E. , Ming Y. , Huang X. L.
Published: October 2012

Abstract. We use a single aerosol model to explore the effects of the differing meteorological fields from the NCAR CAM5 and GFDL AM3 models. We simulate the global distributions of sulfate, black carbon, organic matter, dust and sea salt using the University of Michigan IMPACT model and use these fields to calculate aerosol direct and indirect forcing, thereby isolating the impacts of the differing meteorological fields. Over all, the IMPACT-AM3 model predicts larger burdens and longer aerosol lifetimes than the IMPACT-CAM5 model. However, the IMPACT-CAM5 simulations transport more black carbon to the polar regions and more dust from Asia towards North America. These differences can mainly be attributed to differences in: (1) the vertical cloud mass flux and large-scale precipitation fields which determine the wet deposition of aerosols; (2) the in-cloud liquid water content and the cloud coverage which determine the wet aqueous phase production of sulfate. The burden, lifetime and global distribution, especially black carbon in polar regions, are strongly affected by choice of the parameters used for wet deposition. The total annual mean aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm ranges from 0.087 to 0.122 for the IMPACT-AM3 model and from 0.138 to 0.186 for the IMPACT-CAM5 model (range is due to different parameters used for wet deposition). Even though IMPACT-CAM5 has smaller aerosol burdens, its AOD is larger due to the much higher relative humidity in CAM5 which leads to more hygroscopic growth. The corresponding global annual average anthropogenic and all-sky aerosol direct forcing at the top of the atmosphere ranges from −0.25 W m−2 to −0.30 W m−2 for IMPACT-AM3 and from −0.48 W m−2 to −0.64 W m−2 for IMPACT-CAM5. The global annual average anthropogenic 1st aerosol indirect effect at the top of the atmosphere ranges from −1.26 W m−2 to −1.44 W m−2 for IMPACT-AM3 and from −1.74 W m−2 to −1.77 W m−2 for IMPACT-CAM5.
Impact of Acceptance-Based Nursing Intervention on Postsurgical Recovery: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Fernández María Dolores , Luciano Carmen , Valdivia-Salas Sonsoles
Published: October 2012

Research has shown that teaching individuals to experience pain and anxiety as inevitable products of the actions they freely and responsibly undertake yields healthier reactions to suffering. This preliminary study assesses whether a brief acceptancebased psychological intervention along with the usual presurgical protocol for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy will produce healthier reactions to postsurgical pain, and will reduce anxiety, duration of postsurgical hospitalization, and demand of analgesics. After admission, screening, and consent procedures, we assessed pain and anxiety. Patients in the experimental condition (n= 6) then received a brief acceptance-based nursing intervention addressing the individual meaning of surgery, and including a metaphor and defusion practice, along with routine care. Patients in the control condition (n= 7) received routine care only. Twenty-four hr following the intervention, surgery took place. Pain, anxiety, and patients' demand for analgesics were assessed 24 hr or 48 hr after surgery. All six experimental patients, as compared to three of seven control patients, demanded fewer analgesics and left the hospital within 24 hr or 48 hr from surgery even in the presence of frequent and/or intense pain. Anxiety slightly decreased in the experimental patients. The brief acceptance-based intervention was effective in improving postsurgical recovery. These preliminary findings support the potential of this type of intervention as a cost-effective strategy to be implemented in the sanitary context.