bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Case Report of the Evolution of a Quality Improvement Program in a Multicenter Physical Therapy Organization
Authors: Stevans Joel M. , Bise Christopher G. , McGee John C. , Miller Debora L. , Rockar Paul , Delitto Anthony
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose

Our nation's suboptimal health care quality and unsustainable costs can be linked to the failure to implement evidence-based interventions. Implementation is the bridge between the decision to adopt a strategy and its sustained use in practice. The purpose of this case report is threefold: (1) to outline the historical implementation of an evidence-based quality improvement project, (2) to describe the program's future direction using a systems perspective to identify implementation barriers, and (3) to provide implications for the profession as it works toward closing the evidence-to-practice gap.

Case Description

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Centers for Rehab Services is a large, multicenter physical therapy organization. In 2005, they implemented a Low Back Initiative utilizing evidence-based protocols to guide clinical decision making.

Outcomes

The initial implementation strategy used a multifaceted approach. Formative evaluations were used repeatedly to identify barriers to implementation. Barriers may exist outside the organization, they can be created internally, they may result from personnel, or they may be a direct function of the research evidence. Since the program launch, 3 distinct improvement cycles have been utilized to address identified implementation barriers.

Discussion

Implementation is an iterative process requiring evaluation, measurement, and refinement. During this period, behavior change is actualized as clinicians become increasingly proficient and committed to their use of new evidence. Successfully incorporating evidence into routine practice requires a systems perspective to account for the complexity of the clinical setting. The value the profession provides can be enhanced by improving the implementation of evidence-based strategies. Achieving this outcome will require a concerted effort in all areas of the profession. New skills will be needed by leaders, researchers, managers, and clinicians.
How Strongly Is Aerobic Capacity Correlated With Walking Speed and Distance After Stroke? Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Outermans Jacqueline , van de Port Ingrid , Wittink Harriet , de Groot Janke , Kwakkel Gert
Published: January 2015

Background

Restoration of walking capacity, as reflected by walking speed and walking distance, is a primary goal after stroke. Peak aerobic capacity (peak oxygen consumption [V̇o2peak]) is suggested to be correlated with walking capacity after stroke. Although the strength of this correlation is unclear, physical therapy programs often target walking capacity by means of aerobic training.

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the available evidence on the correlation between V̇o2peak and walking capacity.

Data Sources

The databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus were searched up to May 2014.

Study Selection

Cross-sectional studies reporting correlation coefficients between V̇o2peak and walking capacity in stroke were included, along with longitudinal studies reporting these correlation coefficients at baseline.

Data Extraction

The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using a checklist of 27 items for observational research. Information on study design, stroke severity and recovery, and assessments and outcome of V̇o2peak and walking capacity, as well as the reported correlation coefficients, were extracted.

Data Synthesis

Thirteen studies involving 454 participants were included. Meta-analyses showed combined correlation coefficients (rɱ) for V̇o2peak and walking speed and for V̇o2peak and walking distance of .42 (95% credibility interval=.31, .54) and .52 (95% credibility interval=.42, .62), respectively.

Limitations

The studies included in the present review had small sample sizes and low methodological quality. Clinical and methodological diversity challenged the comparability of the included studies, despite statistical homogeneity. Relevant data of 3 studies could not be retrieved.

Conclusions

The strength of the correlation of V̇o2peak with walking speed was low and moderate for V̇o2peak and walking distance, respectively, indicating that other factors, besides V̇o2peak, determine walking capacity after stroke.
Design and Kinematic Evaluation of a Novel Joint-Specific Play Controller: Application for Wrist and Forearm Therapy
Authors: Crisco Joseph J. , Schwartz Joel B. , Wilcox Bethany , Costa Laura , Kerman Karen
Published: January 2015

Background

The wrist extensors and flexors are profoundly affected in most children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP) and are the major target of physical therapists' and occupational therapists' efforts to restore useful hand functions. A limitation of any therapeutic or exercise program can be the level of the child's engagement or adherence. The proposed approach capitalizes on the primary learning avenue for children: toy play.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the measurement accuracy of innovative, motion-specific play controllers that are engaging rehabilitative devices for enhancing therapy and promoting neural plasticity and functional recovery in children with CP.

Design

Design objectives of the play controller included a cost-effective, home-based supplement to physical therapy, the ability to calibrate the controller so that play can be accomplished with any active range of motion, and the capability of logging play activity and wrist motion over week-long periods.

Methods

Accuracy of the play controller in measuring wrist flexion-extension was evaluated in 6 children who were developing in a typical manner, using optical motion capture of the wrist and forearm as the gold standard.

Results

The error of the play controller was estimated at approximately 5 degrees in both maximum wrist flexion and extension.

Limitations

Measurements were taken during a laboratory session, with children without CP, and no toy or computer game was interfaced with the play controller. Therefore, the potential engagement of the proposed approach for therapy remains to be evaluated.

Conclusions

This study presented the concept, development, and wrist tracking accuracy of an inexpensive approach to extremity therapy that may have a health benefit for children with hemiparesis, and potentially for patients of any age with a wide range of extremity neuromotor impairments.
Assessing the risk of measles resurgence in a highly vaccinated population: Belgium anno 2013
Authors: Hens N , Abrams S , Santermans E , Theeten H , Goeyvaerts N , Lernout T , Leuridan E , Van Kerckhove K , Goossens H , Van Damme P , Beutels P
Published: January 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
A noninvasive estimation of cerebral perfusion pressure using critical closing pressure
Authors: Varsos Georgios V. , Kolias Angelos G. , Smielewski Peter , Brady Ken M. , Varsos Vassilis G. , Hutchinson Peter J. , Pickard John D. , Czosnyka Marek
Published: January 2015

OBJECT

Cerebral blood flow is associated with cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), which is clinically monitored through arterial blood pressure (ABP) and invasive measurements of intracranial pressure (ICP). Based on critical closing pressure (CrCP), the authors introduce a novel method for a noninvasive estimator of CPP (eCPP).

METHODS

Data from 280 head-injured patients with ABP, ICP, and transcranial Doppler ultrasonography measurements were retrospectively examined. CrCP was calculated with a noninvasive version of the cerebrovascular impedance method. The eCPP was refined with a predictive regression model of CrCP-based estimation of ICP from known ICP using data from 232 patients, and validated with data from the remaining 48 patients.

RESULTS

Cohort analysis showed eCPP to be correlated with measured CPP (R = 0.851, p < 0.001), with a mean ± SD difference of 4.02 ± 6.01 mm Hg, and 83.3% of the cases with an estimation error below 10 mm Hg. eCPP accurately predicted low CPP (< 70 mm Hg) with an area under the curve of 0.913 (95% CI 0.883–0.944). When each recording session of a patient was assessed individually, eCPP could predict CPP with a 95% CI of the SD for estimating CPP between multiple recording sessions of 1.89–5.01 mm Hg.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, CrCP-based eCPP was strongly correlated with invasive CPP, with sensitivity and specificity for detection of low CPP that show promise for clinical use.
Emergent intracranial surgical embolectomy in conjunction with carotid endarterectomy for acute internal carotid artery terminus embolic occlusion and tandem occlusion of the cervical carotid artery due to plaque rupture
Authors: Hasegawa Hirotaka , Inoue Tomohiro , Tamura Akira , Saito Isamu
Published: January 2015

Acute internal carotid artery (ICA) terminus occlusion is associated with extremely poor functional outcomes or mortality, especially when it is caused by plaque rupture of the cervical ICA with engrafted thrombus that elongates and extends into the ICA terminus. The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of surgical embolectomy in conjunction with carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for acute ICA terminus occlusion associated with cervical plaque rupture resulting in tandem occlusion. A retrospective review of medical records was performed. Clinical and radiographic characteristics were evaluated, including details of surgical technique, recanalization grade, recanalization time, complications, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months, and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score improvement at 1 month. Three patients (mean age 77.3 years; median presenting NIHSS Score 22, range 19–26) presented with abrupt tandem occlusion of the cervical ICA and ICA terminus and were selected for surgery after confirmation of embolic high-density signal at the ICA terminus on CT and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)/magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) mismatch. All patients underwent craniotomy for surgical embolectomy of the ICA terminus embolus followed by cervical exposure, aspiration of long residual proximal embolus ranging from the cervical to cavernous ICA, and removal of ruptured unstable plaque by CEA. Postoperative MRA demonstrated Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 3 recanalization in all patients (100%) without evidence of additional infarction according to DWI. Mean recanalization time from hospital arrival was 234 minutes and from start of surgery, 151 minutes. Serial postoperative CT and MRI studies showed no symptomatic hemorrhage, brain edema, or progression of infarction. The patients' mRS scores at 3 months were 3, 3, and 1. All 3 patients demonstrated marked improvements in NIHSS scores (median 17 points; range 13–23 points) at 1 month. Considering the dismal prognosis associated with ICA terminus occlusion, especially when accompanied by cervical plaque rupture, emergent surgical embolectomy in conjunction with CEA might be an effective and decisive treatment option with a high complete recanalization rate and acceptable safety profile.
Seasonal variability in the incidence of carcinomatous meningitis
Authors: Koutras Angelos , Sakellakis Minas , Makatsoris Thomas , Psachoulia Charalabia , Kardari Maria , Nikolakopoulos Achilleas , Gogos Charalabos , Kalofonos Haralabos P.
Published: January 2015

OBJECT

The aim of the study was to investigate whether there are seasonal differences in the occurrence of carcinomatous meningitis (CM), with a greater prevalence of the disease in months with higher temperatures.

METHODS

The authors searched the records of all patients with a diagnosis of CM from 1998 until 2013 at the University Hospital of Patras, Greece. The date of hospitalization was extracted for each patient. The cases were divided into 2 categories depending on the time of CM diagnosis. Based on the official data regarding the annual temperature distribution in this region, the authors divided the patients into 2 groups. The first group consisted of cases diagnosed with CM from October 15 to April 15 (cold climate and shorter daytime duration), whereas the second group comprised patients diagnosed between April 15 and October 15 (warm climate and longer daytime duration).

RESULTS

Overall, 44 confirmed cases of CM were found. The most common type of malignancy associated with the development of CM was breast cancer (27 patients), while the second most common tumor was lung carcinoma (11 patients). The median interval between the time of initial cancer diagnosis and CM was 4.5 years. Thirty-one patients were diagnosed with CM during the period between April 15 and October 15, while the remaining 13 patients developed CM between October 15 and April 15, a significant difference (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Significantly more patients developed CM during the warm season of the year. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to provide evidence for the potential seasonal variability in CM incidence. However, these results should be validated prospectively in larger cohorts.
Pattern and Risk Assessment of Bedsore in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Ruhul Amin Md , Monoarul Haque Md , Saha Pradip Kumar , Eusuf Zai Sumaiya Zabin , Mahmud Hossain Sarder , Akter Sanjida
Published: January 2015

Objective: This descriptive type of cross sectional study was conducted to assess pattern and risk factors of bedsore in hospital admitted patients in Dhaka city with a sample size of 114.Methods: A pretested, modified, questionnaire was used to collect the data. All the data were entered and analyzed by using Statistical Package of Social Science 16.0 versions. Results: Study found that 17.5%, 41.2%, 27.2% and 14% of the respondents belonged to age group of 1-20 years, 21-40 years, 41-60 years and 61-80 years respectively with mean age 37.97 +16.909 years.  Responsible diseases for bedsore were spinal cord injury (41.2%), fracture (30%), stroke (24%), unconsciousness (7.2%) and GBS (2.8%) respectively. Study revealed that common area of bedsore were back of the sacrum (57%), back of the scapula (34.2%), medial aspect of knee joint (22.8%), malleoli (21.1%), greater trochanter of femur (15.8%), external occipital protuberance (14%), olecranon process of ulna (9.6%), above the coccyx (9.6%), iliac crest (7%), spine of the scapula (3.5%), posterior superior iliac joint (2.6%) and sacro-iliac joint (1.8%) respectively. Study also found that superficial and deep type of bedsore were 58.8% and 41.2% consecutively. Besides study revealed that 26.3% of the respondents were diabetic, 31.6% obese, 28.1% suffering from malnutrition, 61.4% did not use pneumatic bed and 7.2% patients did not maintain proper positioning 2 hourly and these were the risk factors of this study. Significant association was found between type of bed sore and use of pneumatic bed (P=0.000<0.05) as well as nutritional status (P=0.004<0.05).Conclusions: Changing position and use of pneumatic bed was best methods of prevention of bedsore.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i2.21049
Role of Phonophoresis in Management of Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
Authors: Barua Sunam Kumar , Rahman Sohely , Chakrabarti Prashanta Kumar , Alam Zahangir
Published: January 2015

This prospective study was performed in the department of Physical Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka for a period of 6 months to see the effect of phonophoresis (Ultrasound therapy with Naproxen gel) on adhesive capsulitis. During this period 240 (4% of total patients) patients were diagnosed as adhesive capsulitis of shoulder in outpatient department, Physical Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Sixty patients were selected for the study and divided them into two groups. In group A, patients were treated with phonophoresis and exercises in contrast with group B patients who were treated with same exercises without phonophoresis for same duration. Patients in both groups were followed up weekly for consecutive six weeks. The mean age of the patients in this study was 51.73 ± 10.01 year, with a range of 35 to 70 years. Out of sixty patients 31 (51.7%) were male and 29 (48.3%) were female. The male: female ratio was 1.07: 1. Among 60 patients, 27 (45%) were housewives, 20 (33.3%) service holders (official job), 4 (6.7%) businessmen, 1 (1.7%) teacher and 8 (13.3%) retired persons. In this study 53.3% patients had right shoulder involvement and rest of them (46.7%) had left sided involvement. Pain was improved just after initiation of treatment and it was completely alleviated in group A patients after 6th week, on the contrary although pain was increased after 1st week of treatment thereafter it was gradually decreased but it was not completely alleviated in group B patients at the end of the study. All sorts of range of motions (abduction, internal rotation on abduction, external rotation on abduction) of affected shoulder were improved more rapidly in group A compared to group B patients. Shoulder pain and disability index (SPADI) were significantly reduced in group A compared to group B patients.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i2.21057
Awareness of Pregnant Women Regarding Pregnancy and Safe Delivery in Selected Rural Area
Authors: Azmol Hossain S. M. , Monoarul Haque Md , Rijwan Bhuiyan Md , Tripura Nantu Bikash , Bhuiyan Jakir Hossain , Aziz Itrat
Published: January 2015

Objective: This cross sectional descriptive study was conducted to explore awareness level of pregnant women regarding pregnancy and safe delivery in selected rural area.Methodology: This community based cross sectional descriptive study was carried out at Ullapara Upazila, Sirajgonj District among 120 pregnant women in a rural community. Non probability sampling technique and pretested semistructured questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: Majority of the respondents (65 %) were between 20-34 years of age group. Most of the respondents were housewives (85%). Majority (65%) of the respondents received antenatal care, and among them only 5% respondents received complete antenatal care and 25% received postnatal care. Majority (75%) of the respondents had not received postnatal care (PNC). Majority (85 %) of the respondent planning their delivery in the home and 15% respondent planning their delivery in the delivery center. About 50% of the respondents got information regarding pregnancy and delivery care through health workers. Besides 35% of respondents got information through doctor. Moreover 50% participants knew about the obligatory indications and 50% did not. Sixty percent participants did not know follow-up regarding PNC. Only 25% received PNC. Besides 60% participants did not know about warning sign during delivery while 40% faced complications during their last delivery. About 55% participants did not have knowledge regarding baby care. Moreover 55% participants did not take contraceptive method after their delivery. Conclusion & Recommendation: Attention should be given to improve education level and employment status of the people, as well as supply of all of the necessary equipment and EOC should also be incorporated. Regular awareness program may have to be conducted; Government and non-government organizations should be integrated more in pregnancy issue and post-delivery care. Development and strengthen behavioral change of communications and activities in order to create awareness about pregnant women are also important indeed.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i2.21059
Bilateral Inguinal Hernia Containing both Ovaries in an Infant
Authors: Haque Md Mahfuzul , Saha Bablu Kumar , Haque Rezbanul , Nazma Shamima , Alom Md Shadrul
Published: January 2015

Inguinal hernia with uncommon contents in the hernia sac has been reported in the literature. Preoperative ultrasound can be helpful to diagnose the presence an uncommon content in the hernia sac. Here we report a rare case of female infant having bilateral inguinal hernia with sac containing ovary and fallopian tube with left sided torsion ovary.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i2.21075
Prognostic Significance of B Type Natriuretic Peptide in Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Chowdhury Nasreen , Khan Md. Aminul Haque , Hoque Md Mozammel
Published: January 2015

Acute Coronary syndrome (ACS) is the most common cause of admission to the coronary care unit with highest risk of death and adverse outcomes. ACS accounts for 6070% of all admissions in the hospital. Patients with ACS encompass a heterogeneous group that varies widely regarding severity of the underlying coronary artery disease, prognosis and response to treatment. Patients with the highest risk of subsequent events usually have the largest benefit of an intensified pharmacological treatment and early mechanical intervention. The prognosis for low-risk patients, on the other hand, is often difficult to improve further and these patients usually benefit more from a conservative management with a lower risk of side effects. Therefore, risk stratification is essential and should be initiated early and updated continuously throughout the hospital stay. Early risk stratification is usually performed by the use of clinical background factors, clinical presentation, electrocardiography and biochemical markers of myocardial damage. Levels of natriuretic peptides have been shown to reflect cardiac performance. The aim of this study was to review elaborately on B type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) and its prognostic value in patient with ACS. This review focuses on the emerging role of these peptides in the early risk stratification of ACS patients. Elevation of BNP levels in acute MI and UA is predictive of a greater risk of death, post infarction heart failure, or  reinfarction. Post infarction studies demonstrate that elevated plasma BNP levels are associated with larger infarct size, increased probability of ventricular remodeling, lower ejection fraction, higher risk of heart failure, and increased mortality. This cardiac marker is a potent predictor of mortality in patients with all forms ACS. BNP measurements serve as an index of severity of the ischemic injury, as well as the degree of impairment in left ventricular function.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i2.21079
Birth Defects: A Hospital Based Study in Chittagong, Bangladesh
Authors: Banu Tahmina , Chowdhury Tanvir K , Das Sahadeb Kumar , Chowdhury Md Zonaid , Hoque Md. Momtazul , Rahman M A Mushfiqur
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Birth defects are one of the most common causes of disability in developed and developing countries. Birth defects are structural or functional anomalies, including metabolic disorders, which are present at the time of birth. Although the worldwide incidence of birth defects is estimated at 3-7%, the rate varies widely between countries. In this paper, we categorized the birth defects most commonly seen in Bangladesh and their outcome. We hope to use this information to guide the strategies used to manage these problems.Materials and Methods: This hospital based, descriptive study was done in the Department of Pediatric Surgery in Chittagong Medical College and Hospital from January 2008 to December 2012. Records of all patients with birth defects in our hospital and departmental database were reviewed. Types of birth defects, age, sex, surgery performed and outcome were analyzed in patients admitted during this period. Data were analyzed by SPSS 17. Statistical analysis was performed by the chi-square test and mean and percentage values were calculated. P<0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.Results: During this five year period, there were 5661 patients of birth defects admitted in this department. Of these, 5156 had a single congenital anomaly and 505 had multiple congenital anomalies. The male to female ratio was 2.1: 1. Birth defects comprised 44.61% of all Pediatric surgical admissions and 0.90% of total hospital admissions. The gastrointestinal system was the most common organ system involved, followed by the genitourinary system. Inguinal hernias were the most common gastrointestinal abnormality and hypospadias were the most common genitourinary case. A total of 3921 operations were performed for birth defects, representing 69.26% of total admission for birth defects. Most operations were done for gastrointestinal and genito-urinary defects. Inguinal herniotomy was the most commonly performed operation followed by laparotomy for various indications. There were 225 deaths for birth defects. While this is only 3.97% of all admissions for birth defects, this represents 51.49% of all (pediatric) deaths during the study period. The most common cause of death was anorectal malformations followed by gastroschisis.Conclusion: The study helps assess the burden of birth defects in the Bangladeshi society. There is a need for more extensive, nationwide screening studies to determine the birth prevalence, types and distribution of birth defects in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.20994
Endoscopic and Histologic Diagnosis of Upper Gastrointestinal Lesions, Experience in a Port City of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Sk Md Jaynul , Ahmed A S M Mostaque , Ahmad M Sahab Uddin , Hafiz SAMMA
Published: January 2015

Background: For upper gastrointestinal tract disorders endoscopic biopsy is common procedure performed in the hospital for a variety of benign and malignant lesions. Endoscopy is incomplete without biopsy and histopathology is the gold standard for the diagnosis of endoscopically detected lesions.Methods: A prospective study was carried out at a private histopathology diagnostic center at Chittagong from October 2012 to September 2013. All the upper GIT endoscopic biopsy samples received during the period were included in the study. The endoscopy was done by a skilled endoscopist and his detail endoscopic findings were noted. After conventional tissue processing H&E stained slides are examined under light microscope by three competent histopathologists.Results: Among total 110 upper GIT endoscopic biopsy samples 22 (20%) were oesophageal, 73 (66.36%) gastric and 15 (13.64%) duodenal biopsies. Among oesophageal biopsies 18 (81.82%) were histologically neoplastic of which 13 (81.25%) were SCC and 03 (18.75%) adenocarcinoma. Rest 02 (9.09%) were leiomyoma. Among all the oesophageal carcinomas, 10 (62.5%) were provisionally diagnosed as carcinoma by endoscopists. Among 73 endoscopic biopsies from stomach, the mean age was 54.63 yrs. On histopathology among 73 patients, adenocarcinoma-33 (45.20%), gastric ulcer-11 (15.07%), gastritis-15 (20.55%) and hyperplastic polyp-14 (19.18%). Among 33 adenocarcinoma of stomach 23 (69.69%) were clinically diagnosed or suspected as carcinoma by the endoscopist. Among 15 duodenal biopsies 11 (73.33%) were diagnosed histologically as hyperplastic polyp, 02 (13.33%) as adenocarcinoma, 02 (13.33%) as ulcer. Among 110 UGIT biopsies total 51 (46.36%) were malignant. Mean age 59.49 yrs ranges from 22 Yrs to 82 Yrs. M:F ratio is 1.4:1. Among all 33 (64.7%) were gastric carcinoma, 16 (31.37%) oesophageal carcinoma and 02 (3.92%) duodenal carcinoma. Among 51, 35 (68.63%) were clinically diagnosed or suspected as carcinoma by endoscopist. No clinical information was available in 03 (5.88%) cases and rest 13 (25.49%) cases were clinically diagnosed as non neoplastic conditions by the endoscopist. Conclusion:Endoscopy followed by histopathological examination play important role for diagnosis and management of UGIT lesions.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.20997
Study of Some Sociodemographic Factors in Teenage Pregnancy
Authors: Nessa Kamrun , Zebunnesa Mossammat , Bari Nahla , Bin Saleh Adnan
Published: January 2015

Background: Teen age pregnancy is associated with adverse labour outcome. Analysis of teenage pregnancy shown it was related to a range of social back ground, family and individual factors. Objective: To study the socio demographic factors related to teenage pregnancy and its complications. Methods: A cross sectional observational study was performed over a period of one year (September 2009- August 2010) at the obstetrics department of Chittagong Medical College Hospital. Consecutive six hundred pregnant mothers admitted for delivery that were fulfilled inclusion criteria included in study group. Among them 300 were teen aged (13- 19yrs) belongs to group A and 300 were adult (20-29 yrs) belongs to group B. Socio demographic factors like habitation, religion, family income, education, occupation, contraceptive use, pregnancy plan and antenatal care enquired. Labour complications i.e. prolong or obstructed, fetal distress, mode of delivery, stillbirth, birth weight and birth asphyxia was recorded on a preformed questionnaire and statistical analysis done by using SPSS package for windows version 12. Results: Teenage mother has significant lower mean age at delivery than adults (18.61-+72 vs. 23.87-+ 2.8yrs. P<.001) among teen mothers74% were Muslim, 69% from rural area and slum. 92% were house wife 7.3% service holder and 64.7% had primary education which almost similar as comparison group. Most of the teen mothers from low income group than adult (70% vs.30%).In group A planned pregnancy were (18.7% vs.24.7%) and contraceptive use ( 21.3% vs.72%) which significantly less in comparison to group B. Regular antenatal check up also(10% vs.26%, P<001) less in them. Teen mothers found more anemic (47% vs. 30%). Obstructed labour (14.2% vs. 10.6%) Eclampsia( 3.9% vs.2.1%) and fetal distress (24.2% vs.17.1%) more in A group whereas Prolong labour( 45.5% vs. 55.3%) and Hemorrhage(5.2% vs.14.2%) less in comparison with group B. Caesarean sections and instrumental deliveries significantly higher (59.3% vs.48.7%,) & (6% vs.2.3%) and fetal outcome adverse in teen mothers in comparison to adult mothers. Conclusion: Low socioeconomic condition, limited education, religious and cultural factors all appeared to be related with teenage pregnancy and its adverse outcome.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.21017
A Cluster of Cases of Acute Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis in a Family
Authors: Ferdousi Asma , Ahsan Nazmul , Datta Mitra
Published: January 2015

Acute post streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) remains a common cause of acute nephritis in children. Acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis usually occurs as sporadic cases, occasionally an unusually high incidence of acute nephritis has been recorded. In our country we need to recognize, document and analyze epidemic attacks of acute post streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Then we can plan for its prevention. We have reported here a cluster of cases of APSGN prevailed in a family of a rural setting of southeast part of Bangladesh which was admitted in a subdistrict level hospital and also noticed that total admitted cases of APSGN in that hospital was more during the month of notification in comparison to other months but were not able to identify all the cases of APSGN prevailing in that area. Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is advisable in epidemic conditions and to household contacts of index cases in  communities where the prevalence of the disease is high. It is expected that there are some cluster of cases of APSGN in different regions of our country during different period that is to be notified. Public awareness regarding prevention and early treatment of scabis is required.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.21034
Report of a Rare Case of Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Ismail , Ahmed Imtiaz , Bhattacharjee Pradip , Ahamad M Sahab Uddin , Rahman Zillur
Published: January 2015

A 50 years old non-smoker female with the history of right flank pain and hematuria surgically treated with right sided radical nephrectomy. Macroscopically it showed a large growth located at the lower pole of the right kidney. Histologically the tumor was composed of exuberant sarcomatous elements predominantly malignant fibrous histiocytoma like pattern and  diagnosed as sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma. There was no scope for immunohistological analysis of that tumor in our setup. It is important to recognize the sarcomatoid component in the renal tumors because of its aggressive behavior and adverse prognosis. We report herein a case of sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma histomorphogically.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.21039
Youngest Child Having Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis in Bangladesh : A Case Report
Authors: Hasan A N M Saiful , Khan Anwar Hossain , Maruf-Ul-Quader Mohammed , Ul Alam A B M Mahbub , Begum Saukat Ara , Banik Shukhamoy Kangsha , Hossain Md Delwar , Begum Rokeya
Published: January 2015

A 7 months old girl of a non-consanguineous parents admitted in the Department of Pediatric Nephrology, National Institute of Kidney Diseases and Urology (NIKDU), Sher-E-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, who was diagnosed ultimately as a case of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stage V. She had no family history of renal disease. Initially she was treated with Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis (IPD). Later she was put on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD). With CAPD her serum creatinine gradually decreased and her general wellbeing becomes stable. She was the youngest child who had CAPD in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.21040
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex : A Case Report
Authors: Haque Shahara , Morshed Tarannum , Begum Hasina , Islam Shahidul , Fatema Kaniz , Begum Afroza , Shoyab Muhammad
Published: January 2015

The aim of this report is to present various clinical and radiological features of a young female patient with tuberous sclerosis who exhibited multiple hamartomas of various organ system. Tuberous sclerosis is a rare neurocuteneous syndrome exhibiting multiple hamartomatous proliferations that may involve multiple organ system such as brain, kidney, heart, lungs, eyes and skin. An 18 year old female patient presented with abdominal pain and swelling. Clinical examination of the patient revealed presence of facial angiofibromas and huge left flank mass. She also gave history of twin  pregnancy with IUD. USG of abdomen showed bilateral gross angiomyolipoma with necrosis and haemorrhage in left kidney. CT and MRI of brain showed presence of multiple cortical tubers and calcified subependymal nodules. This case report is a good example of complex nature of tuberous sclerosis. The diagnosis and management of these patients depend on the presentation of the disease.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cmoshmcj.v13i3.21044
The Roman and Civilian origins of the conditio si testator sine liberis decesserit in Scots Law
Authors: Paisley Roderick R M
Published: January 2015

This article examines and evaluates the Roman and Civilian origins of the Scottish rule of succession known as the conditio si testator sine liberis decesserit. The article focuses on the rule that is implied by law where the will itself is silent but, as the legally implied rule probably seeks to emulate the express provision of a testator, the article starts by setting out the position as regards express testamentary provision. The original Roman source of the rule is identified; thereafter the article examines and comments upon the lengthy period of development of the Scottish rule up to its final form at the start of the twentieth century. That latter point in time is when the Scottish rule had received much of its modern form. This article therefore forms a basis for the understanding of modern Scots law.
The future Scotland wants – is it really all about Sustainable Economic Growth?
Authors: Ross Andrea
Published: January 2015

This article analyses the legal and practical implications of the Scottish Government's overall stated objective of increasing sustainable economic growth and the further implications that arise now that the term is formalised in legislation. It draws on the author's previous research into use of legal duties to deliver government objectives and the meaning and delivery of sustainable development and economic development. It is based on a critical review of Scottish Government policy, the provisions of the Regulatory Reform (Scotland) Act 2014, as well as the written and oral evidence submitted to parliamentary committees scrutinising Bills, their reports, and the subsequent Government responses. More broadly, the article examines the relationship between sustainable economic growth and the more widely accepted and used objective of sustainable development as complementary or contrasting policy objectives and legal duties. In doing so, it also aims to demonstrate the difficulties governments face in trying to put flesh on the bones of the Brundtland definition of sustainable development and accelerate progress towards sustainable living.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Actuators in 2014
Authors: Actuators Editorial Office
Published: January 2015

The editors of Actuators would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2014:[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Administrative Sciences in 2014
Authors: Administrative Sciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2015

The editors of Administrative Sciences would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2014:[...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Bioengineering in 2014
Authors: Bioengineering Editorial Ofiice
Published: January 2015

The editors of Bioengineering would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2014:[...]
KAP1 is a Novel Substrate for the Arginine Methyltransferase PRMT5
Authors: Di Caprio Roberta , Ciano Michela , Montano Giorgia , Costanzo Paola , Cesaro Elena
Published: January 2015

KRAB-associated protein 1 (KAP1), the transcriptional corepressor of Kruppel-associated box zinc finger proteins (KRAB-ZFPs), is subjected to multiple post-translational modifications that are involved in fine-tuning of the multiple biological functions of KAP1. In previous papers, we analyzed the KAP1-dependent molecular mechanism of transcriptional repression mediated by ZNF224, a member of the KRAB-ZFP family, and identified the protein arginine methyltransferase PRMT5 as a component of the ZNF224 repression complex. We demonstrated that PRMT5-mediated histone arginine methylation is required to elicit ZNF224 transcriptional repression. In this study, we show that KAP1 interacts with PRMT5 and is a novel substrate for PRMT5 methylation. Also, we present evidence that the methylation of KAP1 arginine residues regulate the KAP1-ZNF224 interaction, thus suggesting that this KAP1 post-translational modification could actively contribute to the regulation of ZNF224-mediated repression.
Evaluating Defect Reporting in New Residential Buildings in New Zealand
Authors: Rotimi Funmilayo , Tookey John , Rotimi James
Published: January 2015

The need for defect reporting is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore at handover of new residential buildings. A general review in defect studies has consistently shown that newly built properties can be found to have a significant number of defects. Very often the responsibility for rectifying these common defects is borne by the new homeowner even though house developers are liable. In the current study, survey data is obtained from 216 recent home purchasers/owners across New Zealand urban cities. The intent of the investigation is to show that opportunities exist for defect reporting that will act as a mechanism to measure performance and thus improve the quality of finished construction products in New Zealand. The study found that a significant number (81%) of the participants were involved in the construction of their homes and could influence quality performance if they were proactive enough. The results show that (64.7%) did not engage the service of independent building inspectors for defect reporting on their new homes. Seventy-four percent now agree that independent building inspection was important in hindsight. The study findings are in line with literature on defects and the poor use of defect reporting in new residential buildings. The current challenge for defect rectification by house developers after handover is real and this could increase the confidence that new home owners can have in their developers. Defect reporting could confer benefits to new residential building quality in New Zealand and should be embraced as part of a wider best practice.
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis on Multicomponent Catalysts: What Can We Learn from Computer Simulations?
Authors: Fajín José , Cordeiro M. , Gomes José
Published: January 2015

In this concise review paper, we will address recent studies based on the generalized-gradient approximation (GGA) of the density functional theory (DFT) and on the periodic slab approach devoted to the understanding of the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process on transition metal catalysts. As it will be seen, this computational combination arises as a very adequate strategy for the study of the reaction mechanisms on transition metal surfaces under well-controlled conditions and allows separating the influence of different parameters, e.g., catalyst surface morphology and coverage, influence of co-adsorbates, among others, in the global catalytic processes. In fact, the computational studies can now compete with research employing modern experimental techniques since very efficient parallel computer codes and powerful computers enable the investigation of more realistic molecular systems in terms of size and composition and to explore the complexity of the potential energy surfaces connecting reactants, to intermediates, to products of reaction. In the case of the Fischer-Tropsch process, the calculations were used to complement experimental work and to clarify the reaction mechanisms on different catalyst models, as well as the influence of additional components and co-adsorbate species in catalyst activity and selectivity.
Serial Measurements of Apoptotic Cell Numbers Provide Better Acceptance Criterion for PBMC Quality than a Single Measurement Prior to the T Cell Assay
Authors: Wunsch Marie , Caspell Richard , Kuerten Stefanie , Lehmann Paul , Sundararaman Srividya
Published: January 2015

As soon as Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC) are isolated from whole blood, some cells begin dying. The rate of apoptotic cell death is increased when PBMC are shipped, cryopreserved, or stored under suboptimal conditions. Apoptotic cells secrete cytokines that suppress inflammation while promoting phagocytosis. Increased numbers of apoptotic cells in PBMC may modulate T cell functions in antigen-triggered T cell assays. We assessed the effect of apoptotic bystander cells on a T cell ELISPOT assay by selectively inducing B cell apoptosis using α-CD20 mAbs. The presence of large numbers of apoptotic B cells did not affect T cell functionality. In contrast, when PBMC were stored under unfavorable conditions, leading to damage and apoptosis in the T cells as well as bystander cells, T cell functionality was greatly impaired. We observed that measuring the number of apoptotic cells before plating the PBMC into an ELISPOT assay did not reflect the extent of PBMC injury, but measuring apoptotic cell frequencies at the end of the assay did. Our data suggest that measuring the numbers of apoptotic cells prior to and post T cell assays may provide more stringent PBMC quality acceptance criteria than measurements done only prior to the start of the assay.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Chromatography in 2014
Authors: Chromatography Editorial Office
Published: January 2015

The editors of Chromatography would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2014:[...]
Ecological Footprint of Biological Resource Consumption in a Typical Area of the Green for Grain Project in Northwestern China
Authors: Hu Jie , Zhen Lin , Sun Chuan-Zhun , Du Bing-Zhen , Wang Chao
Published: January 2015

Following the implementation of the Green for Grain Project in 2000 in Guyuan, China, the decrease in cultivated land and subsequent increase in forest and grassland pose substantial challenges for the supply of biological products. Whether the current biologically productive land-use patterns in Guyuan satisfy the biological product requirements for local people is an urgent problem. In this study, the ecological footprints of biological resource consumption in Guyuan were calculated and analyzed based on the ‘City Hectare’ Ecological Footprint (EF) Method. The EFs of different types of biological resource products consumed from different types of biologically productive land were then analyzed. In addition, the EFs of various biological resource products before and after the implementation of the Green for Grain Project (1998 and 2012) were assessed. The actual EF and bio-capacity (BC) were compared, and differences in the EF and BC for different types of biologically productive lands before and after the project were analyzed. The results showed that the EF of Guyuan’s biological resource products was 0.65866 ha/cap, with an EF outflow and EF inflow of 0.2280 ha/cap and 0.0951 ha/cap, respectively. The per capita EF of Guyuan significantly decreased after the project, as did the ecological deficit. Whereas the cultivated land showed a deficit, grasslands were characterized by ecological surplus. The total EF of living resource consumption in Guyuan was 810,941 ha, and the total BC was 768,065 ha. In additional to current biological production areas, approximately 42,876 ha will be needed to satisfy the demands of Guyuan’s people. Cultivated land is the main type of biologically productive land that is needed.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Geosciences in 2014
Authors: Geosciences Editorial Office
Published: January 2015

The editors of Geosciences would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2014:[...]
Assessment of Malawian Mothers’ Malaria Knowledge, Healthcare Preferences and Timeliness of Seeking Fever Treatments for Children Under Five
Authors: Oyekale Abayomi
Published: January 2015

Malaria is one of the major public health problems in Malawi, contributing to the majority of morbidity and mortality among children under five. Ignorance of malaria symptoms results in delayed treatment, which often degenerates into fatal emergencies. This study analyzed the impact of maternal malaria knowledge on healthcare preferences and timeliness of treating children with reported fever. The Malaria Indicator Survey data for 2012, which were adequately weighted, were analyzed using multinomial logit and Poisson regression models. The results showed low maternal average years of formal education (3.52) and average mothers’ age was 27.97 years. Majority of the women (84.98%) associated fever with malaria, while 44.17% associated it with chilling. Also, 54.42% and 32.43% of the children were treated for fever on the same day and the following day that fever started, respectively. About 9.70% paid for fever treatment from their regular incomes, while 51.38% sought treatment from either public or private health centers. Multinomial Logit regression results showed that relative to using of other treatments, probabilities of selecting private hospitals and public health centers increased with age of the household heads, resident in urban areas, mothers’ years of education, number of days taken off for treatment, paying medical bills from regular, occasional and borrowed incomes, and knowledge of diarrhea and shivering as symptoms of malaria. In the Poisson regression results, timeliness of seeking treatment was significantly enhanced by knowledge of fever as malaria symptom, residence in northern and central regions of Malawi and use of income from sale of assets to pay medical bills (p < 0.10).However, delays in treating children was motivated by age of the household heads, number of days taken off to care for sick child and usage of regular, borrowed and other incomes to pay medical bills. (p < 0.05). It was concluded that efficiency of public sector in treating malaria holds significant prospects for fighting malaria in Malawi. However, adequate efforts should be channeled in enhancing the knowledge of women on malaria symptoms, among others.