bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GE-145, a new low-osmolar dimeric radiographic contrast medium
Authors: Wistrand Lars-G. , Rogstad Astri , Hagelin Gunnar , Roed Line , Oulie Inger , Gram Andreas , Evans Paul , Rasmussen Henrik , Grant Derek , Iveson Peter , Newton Ben , Thaning Mikkel
Published: September 2010

Background: Contrast-induced nephrotoxicity is a significant risk when using radiographic contrast media clinically, especially in high risk patients. Consequently, there is a need for a new contrast agent with improved clinical safety with regards to nephrotoxicity.

Purpose: To evaluate the physicochemical properties as well as the preclinical safety and biodistribution parameters of the newly developed radiographic contrast medium GE-145.

Material and Methods: Standard methods for radiographic contrast media were used for evaluation of physicochemical properties. The acute toxicity in rats was studied at 8, 10, and 12.5 gI/kg, the clinical chemistry parameters were determined, and histology of the kidneys was performed. Biodistribution was studied in rats using 123I-labeled GE-145.

Results: GE-145 is more hydrophilic than iodixanol and has a considerably lower osmolality. The viscosity is similar to that of iodixanol and the protein binding is low. The acute toxicity is similar to that of iodixanol and the biodistribution is similar to that of other radiographic contrast media, showing mainly renal excretion. Kidney histology showed a moderate reversible vacuolization, similar to that of iodixanol.

Conclusion: GE-145 exhibits similar preclinical properties to other dimeric radiographic contrast media. In addition, the low osmolality enables an iso-osmolar formulation containing a significantly higher concentration of electrolytes than Visipaque.
Image quality and attenuation values of multidetector CT coronary angiography using high iodine-concentration contrast material: a comparison of the use of iopromide 370 and iomeprol 400
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Yeh Dae Wook , Choe Yeon Hyeon , Lee Won Jae , Lim Hyo Keun
Published: September 2010

Background: Effects of high iodine-concentration contrast material on the image quality of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) have not been well evaluated.

Purpose: To compare the image quality and attenuation values of CCTA between patients administered iopromide 370 and iomeprol 400 with the use of 64-slice multidetector CT.

Material and Methods: Patients were prospectively enrolled and were randomized into two groups (group A, 151 patients received iopromide 370, iodine flux = 1.48 g I/s; group B, 146 patients received iomeprol 400, iodine flux = 1.60 g I/s). CT attenuation was measured in the coronary arteries and great arteries and measurements were standardized based on an iodine flux of 1.50 g I/s. The image quality of 15 coronary artery segments was graded by two radiologists in consensus with the use of a four-point scale (1 = excellent to 4 = poor enhancement). Non-parametric statistical approaches were used to compare the two groups.

Results: The median attenuation values in the coronary arteries were 454 HU and 464 HU for iopromide 370 and iomeprol 400, respectively, and they did not differ ( P = 0.26). When standardizing for an iodine flux, significantly higher attenuation values were found for iopromide 370 (median = 460 HU, range = 216–791 HU) compared with iomeprol 400 (median = 435 HU, range = 195–758 HU) ( P = 0.006). The median image quality score of coronary arterial segments was 1 (range 1–2) for both groups ( P = 0.84).

Conclusion: The attenuation values in the coronary arteries after injection of the same amount of two high iodine-concentration contrast materials at the same flow rate with different iodine fluxes are similar with no difference in image quality. With standardization for an iodine flux, the attenuation is significantly higher when using iopromide 370.
Cerebral diffusion and perfusion deficits in North Sea divers
Authors: Moen Gunnar , Specht Karsten , Taxt Torfinn , Sundal Endre , Grønning Marit , Thorsen Einar , Troland Kari , Irgens Ågot , Grüner Renate
Published: September 2010

Background: Diving is associated with a risk of cerebral decompression illness, and the prevalence of neurological symptoms is higher in divers compared with control groups. Microvascular dysfunction due to gas microembolism and exposure to hyperoxia are possible mechanisms, which may result in cerebral diffusion and perfusion deficits.

Purpose: To investigate if possible functional derangements of the microvasculature and microstructure would be more prevalent among symptomatic divers.

Material and Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed in 91 former divers and 45 controls. Individual parametric images of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV), and mean transit time (MTT) were generated on the basis of diffusion- and perfusion-weighted imaging. To identify regions with statistically significant differences between groups ( P < 0.05, corrected for false discovery rate), voxel-wise ANCOVA analysis was performed for each of the four parametric images.

Results: Significant regional group differences were found in all four parametric comparisons. Gross regional ADC differences were seen throughout the brain, including large frontal and temporal white-matter regions, the hippocampus, and parts of the cerebellum. Differences in the perfusion maps were localized in fewer and smaller clusters, including parts of the cerebellum, the putamen, and the anterior watershed regions.

Conclusion: Regional functional abnormalities as measured by diffusion- and perfusion-weighted imaging were identified in the divers, and there was a partial co-localization of the regions identified in the perfusion and the diffusion images. The findings may explain some of the long-term clinical symptoms reported among professional divers.
Clinico-radio-pathologic features of a solitary solid renal mass at MDCT examination
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Park Byung Kwan , Kim Chan Kyo , Lee Hyun Moo
Published: September 2010

Background: Incidental detection of solid renal masses has been increasing since the multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) scanner was introduced.

Purpose: To evaluate the clinico-radio-pathologic features of a solitary solid renal mass at MDCT examination.

Material and Methods: A total of 466 non-fatty solid renal masses in 466 patients undergoing nephrectomy were evaluated by MDCT examination. MDCT was performed before and after intravenous injection of contrast material. We obtained the incidences of benign tumors versus malignant tumors, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) versus non-RCC, and asymptomatic RCCs versus symptomatic RCCs. MDCT accuracy for detection of RCC was obtained with a threshold of more than 20 HU tumor attenuation difference between unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT images. Nuclear grade was also compared between small RCCs (≤4 cm) and large RCCs (>4 cm).

Results: Of 466 tumors, 443 (95%) were malignant and 23 (5%) were benign. Of 443 malignant tumors, 437 (99%) were RCC and 6 (1%) were non-RCC. Of 437 RCCs, 324 (74%) were asymptomatic and 113 (26%) were symptomatic. Asymptomatic RCCs ( n=183, 56%) were more frequently pT1a than symptomatic RCCs ( n=28, 25%) ( P<0.05). MDCT accuracy for detection of RCC was 94% (437/466). Of 220 RCCs ≤4 cm, low grade RCC (53%) was more common than high grade RCC (47%).

Conclusion: Most solitary solid renal masses are early stage RCCs and can be diagnosed preoperatively at MDCT examination.
Coalitions and Camps in the German Party System after the 2009 Bundestag Election
Authors: Decker Frank , Sonnicksen Jared
Published: September 2010

The recent Bundestag election in Germany warrants consideration for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that the results are indicative of several trends developing since unification and that will continue to play an important, if not ever increasing role in German politics. These developments include the intensifying fragmentation of the German party system and German voters' growing electoral volatility, both of which are hampering the parties' ability to form government coalitions. In the following article, we distill five fundamental aspects of the election. Building upon this analysis, we explore their meaning as well as potential impact on the German party system and partisan competition, as well as coalition patterns. At the same time, we address the overarching question of whether—and if so, to what extent—German politics is experiencing a trend toward bipolarity between a center-right and left camp and whether such an antagonistic model will be a passing phase or is indicative of a more established five-party system in Germany.
Gender Quota Compliance and Contagion in the 2009 Bundestag Election
Authors: Davidson-Schmich Louise K.
Published: September 2010

This article examines the candidates for the 2009 Bundestag election and asks three questions. First, did German political parties comply with their voluntarily-adopted gender quotas for their electoral lists—both in terms of the numbers of women nominated and their placement on the party list? Second, did parties without gender quotas place female candidates in promising list places? In other words, did quotas exert a “contagion effect“ and spur political groups without quotas to promote women's political careers? Third, what propensity did all parties have to nominate female candidates for direct mandate seats? Did the quotas used for the second vote have a spillover effect onto the first vote, improving women's odds of being nominated for constituency seats? I find that while the German parties generally complied with the gender quotas for their electoral lists, these quotas have had only limited contagion effects on other parties and on the plurality half of the ballot. Gender quotas in their current form have reached their limits in increasing women's representation to the Bundestag. To achieve gender parity, a change in candidate selection procedures, especially for direct mandates, would be required.
Climate, Collective Action and Individual Ethical Obligations
Authors: Hourdequin Marion
Published: September 2010

Both Walter Sinnott-Armstrong and Baylor Johnson hold that under current circumstances, individuals lack obligations to reduce their personal contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. Johnson argues that climate change has the structure of a tragedy of the commons, and that there is no unilateral obligation to reduce emissions in a commons. Against Johnson, I articulate two rationales for an individual obligation to reduce one's greenhouse gas emissions. I first discuss moral integrity, which recommends congruence between one's actions and positions at the personal and political levels. Second, I draw on a Confucian, relational conception of persons to offer a critique of the collective action/tragedy of the commons framework itself. Under the relational conception, commons problems can be reconceptualised so as to dissolve the stark contrast between the individually and the collectively rational. This perspective can inform our approach to climate change and help reconcile individual and political action to mitigate it.
Reasons and Values in Environmental Ethics
Authors: Samuelsson Lars
Published: September 2010

Ever since environmental ethics (EE) began to take form as an academic discipline in the early 1970s, the notion of intrinsic value has occupied a prominent position within the field. Recently, however, various types of critique have emerged within EE against invoking this notion. Contrary to these critiques, I argue that appeals to intrinsic value are not problematic, given the reason-implying sense of ‘intrinsic value’ that is most relevant to EE. I further argue that also those who criticise ‘intrinsic-value-talk’ in EE actually need this reason-implying concept of intrinsic value. However, once we realise that this is the sense of ‘intrinsic value’ that is most relevant to EE, it also becomes clear that it is the concept of a reason, rather than that of intrinsic value, that is most important to EE.
Morphological Study on Age Related Changes of Prostate
Authors: Ahmed Rukshana , Ara Shamim , Begum Manowara , Kishwara Segupta , Rayhan Khandaker Abu , Mahbub Sabiha , Begum Tahmina
Published: September 2010

Context: Prostate related clinical conditions such as prostatic benign hyperplasia and carcinoma prostate are major medical conditions within aging population. Detailed morphological knowledge is essential for proper diagnosis and management of prostatic disease. Study design: Descriptive type of study. Place and Period of study: Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from August 2006 to June 2007. Materials: Present study was performed on 70 post mortem human prostate. The samples were collected from unclaimed dead bodies that were under examination in the Morgue of Department of Forensic Medicine of Dhaka Medical College, Method: The samples were divided into three age group; Group A (10-20 years), Group B (21-40 years), Group C (41-70 years). All samples were studied morphologically. Result: Statistically significant positive correlation was found between age and weight, length, transverse diameter, antero-posterior diameter of prostate. Conclusion: There were changes in the morphology of prostate in relation to age. Keywords: Prostate; morphology. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6085 Bangladesh J. Anat. 2009; 7(2) : 68-72
Location and Number of Human Parathyroid Glands  A Postmortem Study
Authors: Mahbub Sabiha , Ara Shamim , Alim Abdul , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Faruque ABM Omar , Ahmed Rukshana , Kishwara Segupta
Published: September 2010

Context: The parathyroid gland, the last major organ to be recognized in humans, is an essential endocrine gland. The hormone secreted by the parathyroid gland provides a powerful mechanism for controlling extracellular calcium and phosphate concentrations. Knowledge of location and number of parathyroid gland is essential to surgeon, endocrinologist, sonologist and pathologist for better diagnosis and management of parathyroid diseases. Study design: A descriptive type of study. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from January 2008 to December 2008. Materials: The present study was performed on post mortem parathyroid glands of 60 Bangladeshi people in different age groups. Total 207 parathyroid glands were taken from this 60 cadavers. The samples were collected from the unclaimed dead bodies within 24 hours after death that were under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine of Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. Methods: The samples were divided into three different age groups ranging from 15 to 75 years. The three groups are group A (10-30 years), group B (31-60 years) and group C (61-90 years). All samples were studied morphologically. Results: In the present study of 60 cadavers, 207 parathyroid glands were identified in relation to posterior border of thyroid lobe. And most of the superior parathyroid glands were found on the middle third of the posterior border of the thyroid lobe and most of the inferior parathyroid glands were found on the lower third of the posterior border of the thyroid lobe. In this study the highest number of parathyroid glands per person was four, found in about 63.333% of cases and lowest was one, found in 5% of cases, two parathyroid glands were found in 8.33% of cases and three parathyroid glands were found in 23.33% of cases. The average number of parathyroid glands per person was 3.45. Conclusion: The parathyroid glands vary in number and location. Key words: Location; number; parathyroid gland. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6086 Bangladesh J. Anat. 2009; 7(2) : 73-79
Morphometric Measurements of Heart in Adult Male Bangladeshi People In Relation to the Age and Height of the Individual
Authors: Kibria GM , Akhter Nargis Rafiqa , Hossain Md Muazzem , Akhter Salina , Zakariah Md
Published: September 2010

Context: Standardization of heart morphometry in Bangladeshi Bangali population might help for the proper choice for surgical intervention and prosthetic replacement in cardiac surgery. Having this context in mind the study was carried out on hearts of adult Bangali male people. Study design: A descriptive type of study Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from February 1999 to May 1999. Materials: Thirty seven (37) apparently normal postmortem hearts of adult Bangladeshi Bangali males, collected from the morgue of Department of Forensic Medicine, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. Method: Age of the subject was noted from the concerned department. Length of the deceased was measured with a measuring tape from the level of vertex to the outer border of heel. Length (from apex to base) and breadth (at broadest diameter) of the heart were measured with slide calipers. Weight was measured with weighing machine. Result: The length of the hearts varied from 9.38 to 12.30 cm with mean value 11.10 (+ 0.46) cm. Breadth varied from 6.81 to 11.50 cm with mean value 9.38 (+ 1.03) cm. Weight ranged from 150 to 394 gm with mean value 235.92 (+ 41.72) gm. Length of the heart showed a non-significant positive correlation with the age of an individual but a significant positive correlation with the height. Key words: Heart; Age; Height DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6087 Bangladesh J. Anat. 2009; 7(2) : 80-83
Gentamicin Induced Nephrotoxicity in Long Evans Rat - An Experimental Study
Authors: Saha Rama , Choudhury SAR
Published: September 2010

Context: Gentamicin is an antibiotic used in gram-negative infection. It is an nephrotoxic agent. Proximal tubular epithelial cells are selectively sensitive to gentamicin. Objective: To observe the toxic effect of gentamicin on epithelial cells of proximal convoluted tubule in Long Evans rats. Study design: An experimental study. Plan and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology of IPGMR Dhaka during the period of 1995 to 1996. Materials and methods: Eighteen mature long Evans rats were divided into three groups A, B & C. The rats of group A were treated with vehicle and group B and C were treated with gentamicin 50gm and 100gm respectively. Blood urea and serum creatinine were measured and microscopic damaged cells were counted. Result: There was significant increase in serum creatinin and blood urea in gentamicin treated groups. Microscopic examination of kidney showed necrosis of proximal tubular cells. Conclusion: It can be concluded from this study that gentamicin has toxic effects on renal tubule. Key words: Gentamicin. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6088 Bangladesh J. Anat. 2009; 7(2) :84-86
Need Assessment for Undergraduate Medical Curriculum of Bangladesh Through Exploring The Views of Government Primary Health Care Doctors
Authors: Alam Kazi Khairul , Nargis Tahmina , Khan Tabassum Ferdous , Kasem Md Abul , Faruque Md
Published: September 2010

Objective: To identify the relevancy of contents of undergraduate medical curriculum of Bangladesh for providing service at primary health care (PHC) level through exploring the views of government PHC doctors. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted upon the government doctors who were working at primary health care level of Bangladesh. A total of 545 doctors of 176 upozilas of 62 districts of the country participated in this study by filling mailed self administered semi-structured questionnaires Result: It was found that majority of doctors were satisfied on their skill and knowledge that they acquired at undergraduate level. Their opinions indicated that clinical subjects of MBBS course need more emphasis than basic subjects. On the basis of their opinion a total of 129 health problems are prioritized according to the load of the health problems at the working place of PHC doctors. Conclusion: Curriculum of undergraduate medical education should be reviewed and more emphasis should be given on skills especially on the clinical subjects keeping in mind common health problem of Bangladesh Key words: Need Assessment Medical Curriculum; Medical Education Bangladesh; Undergraduate Curriculum Bangladesh; Health Needs Bangladesh; Curriculum Development Bangladesh.
Morphological and Histological Study of The Pyramidal Lobe of The Thyroid Gland in Bangladeshi People - A Postmortem Study
Authors: Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Alim Abu , Mahbub Sabiha , Kishwara Segupta , Begum Manowara , Khatun Monira , Ara Shamima
Published: September 2010

Background: The pyramidal lobe of the thyroid gland is an embryonic remnant of the caudal end of the thyroglossal tract. The pyramidal lobe is formed from normal thyroid tissue. A fibrous band, levator glandulae thyroideae, is found occasionally and extending upwards from the apex of the pyramidal lobe. As all thyroid diseases are found to be present in the pyramidal lobe, the study of the pyramidal lobe bears a great importance. Study design: Cross-sectional descriptive type of study. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from January to December 2008. Materials: The present study was performed on 60 post mortem human thyroid gland (39 male and 21 female) collected from unclaimed dead bodies which were in the morgue under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. Methods: The samples were divided into three age-groups including Group A (10 -20 years), Group B (21- 50 years) & Group C (>50 years) and the pyramidal lobes were studied both morphologically i.e. position, length, breadth, thickness, its association with levator glandulae thyroideae and histologically including presence of thyroid tissue, percentage proportion of parenchyma and stroma. Results: The pyramidal lobe was found in 25 cases out of 60 (41.67%) and situated more on the left side (56%). The mean±SD length of the pyramidal lobe of the thyroid gland was 10.83±0.75 mm in group A, 12.80±3.05 mm in group B and 11.00±1.41 mm in group C. The mean±SD breadth of the pyramidal lobe was 5.50±1.22 mm in group A, 7.60±2.06 mm in group B and 6.75±0.96 mm in group C. The mean±SD thickness of the pyramidal lobe was 3.00±0.00 mm in group A, 3.27±0.59 mm in group B and 3.00±0.96 mm in group C. The levator glandulae thyroideae was found in 12 cases out of 60 (20%) and extended from the apex of the pyramidal lobe to the body of the hyoid bone. The proportion of the parenchyma increases with advancing age upto 50 years. Key Words: morphology; histology; pyramidal lobe; thyroid gland DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6095 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2009, Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 94-100
Stature Estimation Using Head Measurements in Bangladeshi Garo Adult Females
Authors: Akhter Zakia , Begum Jahan Ara , Banu Mst Laila Anjuman , Alam Md Mahbubul , Hossain Samira , Amin Nahid Farhana , Uddin Md Mesbah , Yasmin Quazi Samsunnahar
Published: September 2010

Context: Stature is the height of the person in the upright posture. It is an important measure of physical identity. Interrelationships among different body measurements may be used to estimate one from another in case of missing body parts. As any part of the human skeleton can be found as the evidences, there arise a need to investigate whether there is any possible significant correlation between stature and any parts in human body. Garos, our study subject living in Bangladesh are usually recognized as an ethnic community, they have a separate identity and their physical appearance is distinctive to some extent. The present study was conducted with the intention to establish ethnic specific anthropometric data for the Bangladeshi Garo tribal populations and also to determine whether there is any correlation between the measured values of the stature and the physically measured cranial variables, to estimate (using respective multiplication factor) the stature from the physically derived cranial measurements and to assess the effectiveness of such estimation. Study design: The study was an observational, cross-sectional and descriptive in nature with some analytical components. Study settings and study period: The study was carried out in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, during the session of January to December 2008. Selections of the subjects: A total number of one hundred Garo female subjects were included from Dhaka city and Mymensingh district. Methods: Cranial dimension such as head circumference, head length and stature were measured using a measuring tape, spreading caliper, steel plate and steel tape. Results: Head circumference showed significant positive correlation with stature but head length did not reach statistically significant level with stature. No significant difference was found between the ‘measured' and ‘estimated' stature for head circumference and head length. Key words: Anthropometry; stature; correlation; head circumference; head length DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6096 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2009, Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 101-104
Intimal Thickness of the Right Renal Artery: A Postmortem Study
Authors: Naher Saifun , Naushaba Humaira , Ara Shamim , Khatun Shahara , Begum Jesmin Ara
Published: September 2010

Context: Atherosclerosis is the most frequent intimal disease of large and medium sized arteries. It is characterized by the intimal thickening and lipid deposition. Atherosclerosis can affect the kidneys directly by renal stenosis or as a frequent site of atherosclerotic disease. The seemingly increased incidence of atherosclerotic disorders in the country, their fatal consequences and the paucity of relevant data of the present study was carried out to find out such information which help workers at all levels playing their roles in planning and execution of the prevention and management aspects of atherosclerotic disorders. Study design: The study was observational, cross sectional & analytical in nature. Place and period of study: Department of Anatomy, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka, during the study period of 2005 to 2006. Materials and Methods: Six good Mallory-Azan stained histological slides, section from proximal 2cm of right renal arteries of three age groups (lower 8-29 years, middle 30-40 years, higher 42-92 years) were prepared for this study. After standardizing the ocular micrometer with the stage micrometer for the particular objective and eyepiece, each study slide was placed in the place of stage micrometer and intimal thickness was measured in ocular micrometer division. Result: The present study revealed that mean intimal thickness increased along with increasing age. Unpaired student ‘t' test for statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p <0.001,p<0.01) in mean intimal thickness of right renal artery, between the lower and middle age groups as well as the lower and higher age groups. Key words: Intimal thickness; right renal artery; postmortem. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6097 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2009, Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 105-108
Internal Diameter of the Main Pancreatic Duct  A Post Mortem Study
Authors: Shahriah Sunjida , Ahmed Md Shameem , Alam Md Jahangir , Rayhan Khandaker Abu , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Begum Gul Newaz , Ahmed Rukshana , Ara Shamim
Published: September 2010

Context: Main pancreatic duct is an important vessel for transport of pancreatic exocrine secretion. It gradually tapers towards the tail. Progressive narrowing of the internal diameter of the main pancreatic duct is dangerous for removal of pancreatic or dislodged gallbladder calculi. Study design: A descriptive type of study. Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, from August 2005 to December 2006. Materials: The present study was performed on 75 male humans. The samples were collected from the unclaimed dead bodies within 24 hours after death that were under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine of Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. Method: The samples were divided into 7 different age groups and comparative studies were made between different groups. All samples were studied morphologically. Internal diameter of the main pancreatic duct was measured at four points with the help of a dissecting microscope. Result: Internal diameter of the main pancreatic duct increased progressively with age, which showed positive correlation and was statistically significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: Further studies with large sample in both sexes, comparison of internal diameter of main pancreatic duct with in situ X-ray, corrosion cast of the pancreatic ductal system, pancreatic ductal histological studies are recommended. Key words: Main pancreatic duct; internal diameter. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v7i2.6098 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2009, Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 109-116
History of Research Ethics
Authors: Ara Shamim
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6099Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 1-3
Histological Study on the Diameter of the Lymphoid Follicle of Vermiform Appendix in Bangladeshi People
Authors: Paul Uttam Kumar , Naushaba Humaira , Alam Md Jahangir , Begum Tahmina , Hossain Md Moazzem , Rahman Md Atiar
Published: September 2010

Context: The vermiform appendix is an abdominal organ performing the immunological function. Histological characteristics of this organ show its specialized immunological function. Vermiform appendix is involved in different disease processes such as appendicitis, carcinoma and diverticulitis. Appendicitis is the most important clinical condition. An appropriate anatomical knowledge about vermiform appendix is important for surgeons, pathologists and other physicians for proper diagnosis and management of appendicitis and carcinoma. Study design: Descriptive type of study. Place and period of the study: Department of Anatomy, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka from January 2006 to June 2007. Materials: Sixty (60) human postmortem vermiform appendix, age ranging from 0 to 65 years. Samples were collected from unclaimed dead bodies within 24 hours of death from the morgue of Sir Salimullah Medical College and Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. Method: The samples were divided into five (5) different age groups. Result: Diameter of lymphoid follicles reduced with the advancing age and showed negative correlation with age which was highly significant (P<0.001). Key words: Lymphoid follicle; vermiform appendix. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6100 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 5-9
Age Related Changes in Weight of the Thymus Gland of Bangladeshi People
Authors: Begum Meherunnessa , Paul Uttam Kumar , Alam Md Jahangir
Published: September 2010

Context: Thymus is intimately related to the immuno regulatory mechanism of the body, its weight in general as well as at different age in a particular population might also be related to the overall immune status of that population. Thus the knowledge of the weight of the thymus at different ages may be helpful in planning of the medical and surgical treatment of thymus related problem as well as dealing patients from immunologic aspects Objective: To measure the age related changes in weight of the thymus gland of Bangladeshi people Study design: A descriptive type of study Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, IPGMR Dhaka from October 1996 to March 1997. Materials: 40 (forty) thymuses from Bangladeshi cadaver of either sex were taken for this study. Method: The collected samples were divided into four age groups ranged from still born to sixty years old individuals and comparative studies were done between different age groups. Result: The thymuses increased significantly in weight steadily through the increasing age groups from the still born babies to <16yrs and then declines through the age still higher. Conclusion: In the present study the weight of the thymus increases through the increasing age groups and then declined. Key words: Thymus; Weight DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6101 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 10-12
Role of Vitamin E on Indomethacin induced low pH of Seminal Fluid in Long Evans Rats
Authors: Alam Md Jahangir , Naushaba Humaira , Paul Uttam Kumar , Begum Tahmina , Shahriah Sunjida , Ahmed Md Shameem , Hossain Md Moazzem
Published: September 2010

Context: Indomethacin is the most commonly and widely used nonsteroidal antinflammatory analgesic and antipyretic drug. Though it is effective drug in various diseases, indomethacin causes inhibition of spermatogenesis by lowering the pH of seminal fluid leading to infertility. On the other hand, vitamin E enhances spermatogenesis by increasing pH of the seminal fluid. Therefore, the present study was designed to observe the protective role of vitamin E on indomethacin induced low pH of seminal fluid in testicular damage. Objective: To observe the effects of vitamin E on indomethacin induced low pH of seminal fluid in testicular damage in Long Evans rats. Study design: An experimental study. Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka in the period of August, 2005 to June, 2006. Materials and methods: Eightyfour mature Long Evans male rats were divided into four groups (I, II, III and IV). The rats of group I, II and III were treated with indomethacin at different doses and duration. Group IV rats were treated with indomethacin plus vitamin E at different doses for 49 days. The pH of seminal fluid were measured biochemically. Results: There was significant reduction (P<0.001) of pH of seminal fluid when the rats were treated with indomethacin at low (2 mg/kg body weight/day) and high (10 mg/kg body weight/day) doses for 7, 14 and 42 days, respectively. On the other hand, rats treated with indomethacin plus vitamin E for 49 days showed increase in pH of seminal fluid compared to other groups (P<0.001). Conclusion: It can be concluded from the study that vitamin E has potential role in the prevention of the antispermatogenic effects of indomethacin by increasing the pH of seminal fluid. Key words: seminal fluid; indomethacin; vitamin E   DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6103 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 13-15
Role of Flutamide on Testosterone Induced Prostatic Hyperplasia in Long Evans Rats
Authors: Rahman Md Atiar , Naushaba Humaira , Akter Jesmin , Paul Uttam Kumar , Khan Nahid Ahmed
Published: September 2010

Context: Testosterone is the male sex hormone responsible for growth of secondary sexual character and accessory sex organs. Despite the effectiveness as a male sex hormone, testosterone causes Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) resulting in urinary dysfunction. On the other hand, flutamide is a pure antitestosterone, which blocks the effects of Dihydro testosterone (DHT) at the testosterone receptor and prevents BPH. Therefore the present study was designed to observe the protective role of flutamide on testosterone induced prostatic hyperplasia. Objective: To observe the effects of flutamide on testosterone induced prostatic hyperplasia in Long Evans rats. Study design: An experimental study. Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Sir Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka during the period of July 2006 to June 2007. Materials & Methods: Forty five matured male long Evans rats of age 8-10 weeks and weighing 200-300 gms were used in this study. They were divided into three equal groups. Group A was vehicle (olive oil) control group, Group B was testosterone treated group and Group C was testosterone & flutamide treated group. Comparative study in different groups were done microscopically. Results: There was significant reduction (P<0.001) in prostatic hyperplasia. The mean percentage volume of stroma in flutamide treated rats was lower than the testosterone treated rats. Conclusion: It can be concluded from this study that flutamide is an effective drug against testosterone induced prostatic hyperplasia. Key words: Prostate; Testosterone; Flutamide. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6104 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 16-20
Prediction of Stature From Hand Length and Breadth  An Anthropometric Study on Christian Garo tribal Bangladeshi females
Authors: Hossain Samira , Begum Jahan Ara , Banu Mst Laila Anjuman , Rahman Md Fashiur , Akhter Zakia
Published: September 2010

Context: Body physique is influenced to a greater extent by climatic, hereditary, nutritional and racial factors. Since in Bangladesh variegated ethnic groups inhabit in different conditions, no single anthropometric formula is suitable. The stature prediction occupies relatively a central position in the anthropometric research. And estimation of stature of an individual from the mutilated or amputated limbs has obvious significance in the personal identification in the events of murders, accidents or natural disasters. The present study was undertaken to measure the stature, as well as some length and breadth of hand and to determine whether there is any correlation between the stature and the hand variables. And to estimate using respective multiplication factors the stature from these variables and to assess the effectiveness of the above estimations by comparing the ‘estimated' values with the ‘measured' values. Methods: The study was carried out with a total number of 100 Christian Garo adult females aged between 25 to 45 years. Hand length and breadth along with their stature were measured directly from the subjects by using anthropometric sliding, spreading calipers and measuring tape. The data were then statistically analyzed by computation to find out its normative value. Multiplication factors were estimated for estimating stature and comparison were made between measured and estimated stature using paired "t" test. Result: The mean normal values of the hand measurements (right and left hand length were 16.39 ± 0.72 cm and 16.33 ± 0.67 cm respectively and breadth of right and left hand were 7.22 ± 0.38 cm and 7.18 ± 0.3 cm respectively) and the stature (152.79 ± 5.62 cm) were found. The multiplication factors were estimated for the same hand measurements with the stature. Significant positive correlation was found in case of hand length with the stature. There was positive correlation (r=0.17, p=0.09 and r=0.15, p=0.12) between the stature and breadth of the right and left hand (Figure 3.21) but the result did not reach any statistically significant level. Key words: Anthropology; correlation; multiplication factor; stature DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6105 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 21-27
Anatomy as an Emerging Science and Career Option in View of Medical Students in Bangladesh
Authors: Chakraborty Sanjoy Kumar , Hakim Monjurul , Banu Mst Laila Anjuman , Yousuf BM Ali , Ali M Shosher , Shamim Kondkher Manzare
Published: September 2010

Three hundred and thirty four medical students were questioned regarding their views on anatomy as an emerging science and further career option. A questionnaire with 16 statements was given to these students and their answers were compiled. The results of this study were encouraging. 99% of students consider anatomy as an essential pillar of medical science. A vast majority (94%) felt that a sound knowledge of anatomy helped them in their clinical term. However, more than 50% termed anatomy was difficult to understand and more than two-third agreed to the question that the duration of teaching anatomy should not be limited to one and a half year. Though 73% placed anatomy apart with clinical subjects. More than 80% compared teaching anatomy as favorable as treating a patient. In Bangladesh, lack of satisfactory job opportunities and adequate research facilities limits the uptake of anatomy as a career option. Even with a modified curriculum two third were willing to become an anatomist. A formal course in teaching was welcomed by most in case they sought to become anatomist. Key words: Anatomy; an emerging science; career option; students view. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6106 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 28-33
Effect of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Gross Morphological Structure of Preterm Placenta
Authors: Akhter Fahima , Banu Mst Laila Anjuman , Ferdausi Roxana
Published: September 2010

Context: Preterm birth is the major cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. For the last few decades, it has become an important issue in public health policies of developing countries. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the high-risk factors for the preterm birth and altered fetal development. This pregnancy induced disorder leads to an increased level of all metabolic substances to the fetal circulation due to development of maternal insulin resistance. It imposes a heavy burden on the mother who is pregnant and these patients have a tendency toward metabolic instability. As there is an intimate relationship between the fetus and placenta, the present study aimed to observe the effect of this pregnancy induced disorder to the preterm placenta. Study design: The study was observational, analytical and cross sectional. Place and period of study: The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, BSMMU, Dhaka during the study period of January 2005 to December 2005. Materials and Methods: A total of forty-four samples were collected from women during 28 weeks to 36 completed weeks of gestation. Among them, twenty-two samples belonged to mothers having GDM and twenty-two belonged to normal pregnancy (control group). The placentas were examined to measure their diameter, thickness, cotyledons number, weight, and volume. Result: In this study, the GDM group showed significantly higher values for the variables of diameter, weight and volume. On the other hand, the thickness of the placenta showed lower values and cotyledons number showed higher values in GDM group but the result did not reach a significant level. Conclusion: The findings in this study supported that the gross morphological structure of the placentas in GDM mother did not present any specific, constant or uniform pattern of abnormality. Therefore, it is difficult to establish a clear cut correlation between the placental changes and diabetic state in the mother during pregnancy. However, increased placental weight, volume and diameter found in gestational diabetic mother have supported that these changes may be a long term compensatory mechanism, aiming to secure a sufficient nutrient supply to support the growth of large-for-gestational age (LGA) fetus. But the hormonal and metabolic abnormalities present in the diabetic mother and the fetus are important variables to be considered when studying the placenta. Key words: Preterm Placenta; GDM; Gross morphology. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6107 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 34-38
Peroperative Nerve Preservation During Open Hernia Repair
Authors: Kabir SF , Alam ABMK
Published: September 2010

Background: Peroperative identification and subsequent division or preservation of the inguinal nerves during open hernia repair may influence the incidence of chronic postoperative pain. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed to identify studies investigating the influence of different types of nerve management. Results: Based on three randomized studies the pooled mean percentage of patients with chronic pain after identification and division of the ilioinguinal nerve was similar to that after identification and preservation of the ilioinguinal nerve. Two cohort studies suggested that the incidence of chronic pain was significantly lower after identification of all inguinal nerves compared with no identification of any nerve. Another cohort study reported a significant difference in the incidence of chronic pain in favour of identification and facultative pragmatic division of the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve compared with no identification at all. Conclusion: The nerves should be identified during open hernia repair. Division of and preservation of the ilioinguinal nerve show similar results. Incidence of postoperative chronic pain may be decreased by preservation of inguinal nerves in open hernia repair. DOI: 10.3329/bja.v8i1.6108 Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy January 2010, Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 39-42
The Clinical Significance of Unknown Sequence Variants in BRCA Genes
Authors: Calò Valentina , Bruno Loredana , La Paglia Laura , Perez Marco , Margarese Naomi , Di Gaudio Francesca , Russo Antonio
Published: September 2010

Germline mutations in BRCA1/2 genes are responsible for a large proportion of hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancers. Many highly penetrant predisposition alleles have been identified and include frameshift or nonsense mutations that lead to the translation of a truncated protein. Other alleles contain missense mutations, which result in amino acid substitution and intronic variants with splicing effect. The discovery of variants of uncertain/unclassified significance (VUS) is a result that can complicate rather than improve the risk assessment process. VUSs are mainly missense mutations, but also include a number of intronic variants and in-frame deletions and insertions. Over 2,000 unique BRCA1 and BRCA2 missense variants have been identified, located throughout the whole gene (Breast Cancer Information Core Database (BIC database)). Up to 10–20% of the BRCA tests report the identification of a variant of uncertain significance. There are many methods to discriminate deleterious/high-risk from neutral/low-risk unclassified variants (i.e., analysis of the cosegregation in families of the VUS, measure of the influence of the VUSs on the wild-type protein activity, comparison of sequence conservation across multiple species), but only an integrated analysis of these methods can contribute to a real interpretation of the functional and clinical role of the discussed variants. The aim of our manuscript is to review the studies on BRCA VUS in order to clarify their clinical relevance.
Interaction of Stellate Cells with Pancreatic Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Habisch Hansjörg , Zhou Shaoxia , Siech Marco , Bachem Max G.
Published: September 2010

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by its late detection, aggressive growth, intense infiltration into adjacent tissue, early metastasis, resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy and a strong “desmoplastic reaction”. The dense stroma surrounding carcinoma cells is composed of fibroblasts, activated stellate cells (myofibroblast-like cells), various inflammatory cells, proliferating vascular structures, collagens and fibronectin. In particular the cellular components of the stroma produce the tumor microenvironment, which plays a critical role in tumor growth, invasion, spreading, metastasis, angiogenesis, inhibition of anoikis, and chemoresistance. Fibroblasts, myofibroblasts and activated stellate cells produce the extracellular matrix components and are thought to interact actively with tumor cells, thereby promoting cancer progression. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the role of pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) in the desmoplastic response of pancreas cancer and the effects of PSC on tumor progression, metastasis and drug resistance. Finally we present some novel ideas for tumor therapy by interfering with the cancer cell-host interaction.
Epigenetic Therapy in Human Choriocarcinoma
Authors: Takai Noriyuki , Narahara Hisashi
Published: September 2010

Because epigenetic alterations are believed to be involved in the repression of tumor suppressor genes and promotion of tumorigenesis in choriocarcinomas, novel compounds endowed with a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activity are an attractive therapeutic approach. HDAC inhibitors (HDACIs) were able to mediate inhibition of cell growth, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and the expression of genes related to the malignant phenotype in choriocarcinoma cell lines. In this review, we discuss the biologic and therapeutic effects of HDACIs in treating choriocarcinoma, with a special focus on preclinical studies.