bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serbian music criticism in the first half of the twentieth century: Its canon, its method and its educational role
Authors: Vasic Aleksandar
Published: November 2009

Serbian music criticism became a subject of professional music critics at the beginning of the twentieth century, after being developed by music amateurs throughout the whole previous century. The Serbian Literary Magazine (1901- 1914, 1920-1941), the forum of the Serbian modernist writers in the early 1900s, had a crucial role in shaping the Serbian music criticism and essayistics of the modern era. The Serbian elite musicians wrote for the SLM and therefore it reflects the most important issues of the early twentieth century Serbian music. The SLM undertook the mission of educating its readers. The music culture of the Serbian public was only recently developed. The public needed an introduction into the most important features of the European music, as well as developing its own taste in music. This paper deals with two aspects of the music criticism in the SLM, in view of its educational role: the problem of virtuosity and the method used by music critics in this magazine. The aesthetic canon of the SLM was marked by decisively negative attitude towards the virtuosity. Mainly concerned by educating the Serbian music public in the spirit of the highest music achievements in Europe, the music writers of the SLM criticized both domestic and foreign performers who favoured virtuosity over the 'essence' of music. Therefore, Niccol? Paganini, Franz Liszt, and even Peter Tchaikowsky with his Violin concerto became the subject of the magazine's criticism. However their attitude towards the interpreters with both musicality and virtuoso technique was always positive. That was evident in the writings on Jan Kubel?k. This educational mission also had its effect on the structure of critique writings in the SLM. In their wish to inform the Serbian public on the European music (which they did very professionally), the critics gave much more information on biographies, bibliographies and style of the European composers, than they valued the interpretation itself. That was by far the weakest aspect of music criticism in the SLM. Although the music criticism in the SLM was professional and analytic one, it often used the literary style and sometimes even profane expressions in describing the artistic value and performance, more than it was necessary for the genre of music criticism. The music critics of the SLM set high aesthetic standards before the Serbian music public, and therefore the virtuosity was rejected by them. At the same time, these highly professional critics did not possess a certain level of introspection that would allow them to abstain from using sometimes empty and unconvincing phrases instead of exact formulations suitable for the professional music criticism. In that respect, music critics in the SLM did not match the standards they themselves set before both the performers and the public in Serbia.
Searching for the right form: A self-taught village player recalling performance live
Authors: Jovanovic Jelena
Published: November 2009

Repertoire of the excellent self-taught traditional dvojnice-player, Miladin Arsenijevic, from the vicinity of Topola (central Serbia) consists of lyrical songs of a newer rural repertoire. During a 'cognitive interview', in his attempt to recall and reconstruct old-time traveler's (putnicko) playing through performance, a 'real music situation', he has gradually condensed the developed form of the homophonic shepherd's song into the fragmentary form of heterophonic traveler's playing. In this paper the accent is on the player's search and creative process in his attempt to derive the right musical form of a piece, using his long-term memory, since he has not heard or played the piece for quite a long time. It is also a successful attempt to bring musical data from passive to active musical memory, and a transit from one collective semantic musical code to another. The motoric component plays an important role as well. The analysis of musical change shows that musical memory is a distributive system, and data is organized in groups. Musical parameters change: rhythm and tone are changed first, while other parameters seem to depend mostly on the shape of the melodic model; they gradually change while this element finds its right form.
Driving Mishaps Among Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Cox Daniel J. , Ford Derek , Gonder-Frederick Linda , Clarke William , Mazze Roger , Weinger Katie , Ritterband Lee
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

Hypoglycemia-related neuroglycopenia disrupts cognitive-motor functioning, which can impact driving safety. Retrospective studies suggest that drivers with type 1 diabetes experience more collisions and citations than their nondiabetic spouses. We present the first prospective data documenting the occurrence of apparent neuroglycopenia-related driving performance impairments.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We completed the initial screening of 452 drivers from three geographically diverse centers who then reported monthly occurrences of driving “mishaps,” including collisions, citations, losing control, automatic driving, someone else taking over driving, and moderate or severe hypoglycemia while driving.

RESULTS

Over 12 months, 52% of the drivers reported at least one hypoglycemia-related driving mishap and 5% reported six or more. These mishaps were related to mileage driven, history of severe hypoglycemia, and use of insulin pump therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Many individuals with type 1 diabetes report hypoglycemia-related driving events. Clinicians should explore the recent experiences with hypoglycemia while driving and the risk of future events.
Rates of Progression in Diabetic Retinopathy During Different Time Periods
Authors: Wong Tien Y. , Mwamburi Mkaya , Klein Ronald , Larsen Michael , Flynn Harry , Hernandez-Medina Marisol , Ranganathan Gayatri , Wirostko Barbara , Pleil Andreas , Mitchell Paul
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis reviews rates of progression of diabetic retinopathy to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and/or severe visual loss (SVL) and temporal trends.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This systematic literature review and meta-analysis of prospective studies assesses progression of retinopathy among diabetic patients without treatment for retinopathy at baseline. Studies published between 1975 to February 2008 were identified. Outcomes of interest were rates of progression to PDR and/or SVL. Pooled baseline characteristics and outcome measures were summarized using weighted averages of counts and means. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared between two periods: 1975–1985 and 1986–2008.

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies comprising 27,120 diabetic patients (mean age 49.8 years) were included. After 4 years, pooled incidence rates for PDR and SVL were 11.0 and 7.2%, respectively. Rates were lower among participants in 1986–2008 than in 1975–1985. After 10 years, similar patterns were observed. Participants in 1986–2008 studies had lower proportions of PDR and non-PDR at all time points than participants in 1975–1985 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Since 1985, diabetic patients have lower rates of progression to PDR and SVL. These findings may reflect an increased awareness of retinopathy risk factors; earlier identification and initiation of care for patients with retinopathy; and improved medical management of glucose, blood pressure, and serum lipids. Differences in baseline characteristics, particularly in the prevalence and severity of retinopathy, could also have contributed to these temporal differences.
Prospective Study of Pre-Gravid Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chen Liwei , Hu Frank B. , Yeung Edwina , Willett Walter , Zhang Cuilin
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

Consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) was related to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance in several recent studies among middle- or older-aged populations. Studies on SSB consumption and glucose intolerance among pregnant women, however, are lacking. We therefore examined the association between regular SSB consumption before pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a prospective study among 13,475 U.S. women who reported at least one singleton pregnancy between 1992 and 2001 in the Nurses' Health Study II. GDM was self-reported and validated by medical record review in a subsample. Cox proportional hazards models with multivariate adjustments were applied to examine the association of SSB consumption with GDM risk.

RESULTS

During 10 years of follow-up, 860 incident GDM case subjects were identified. After adjustment for age, parity, race, physical activity, smoking, alcohol intake, prepregnancy BMI, and Western dietary pattern, intake of sugar-sweetened cola was positively associated with the risk of GDM, whereas no significant association was found for other SSBs and diet beverages. Compared with women who consumed <1 serving/month, those who consumed ≥5 servings/week of sugar-sweetened cola had a 22% greater GDM risk (relative risk 1.22 [95% CI 1.01–1.47]).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from this study suggest that prepregnancy higher consumption of sugar-sweetened cola (≥5 servings/week) is associated with an elevated GDM risk, whereas no significant association with GDM risk was observed for other SSBs and diet beverages.
Influence of PAHs on ligninolytic enzymes of the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus D1
Authors: Pozdnyakova Natalia , Nikiforova Svetlana , Turkovskaya Olga
Published: November 2009

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), their derivatives, and their degradation products were assayed for the ability to enhance activities of ligninolytic enzymes (laccase and versatile peroxidase) of the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus D1. The activities of both laccase and versatile peroxidase were induced by the PAHs, their derivatives, and their degradation products. Laccase was produced mostly in the first 7–10 days, whereas the production of versatile peroxidase began after 5–7 days of cultivation. Non-denaturing PAGE showed the presence of additional forms of laccase and versatile peroxidase in the presence of the xenobiotics in the cultivation medium. The difference in the production time for these enzymes may reflect that laccases are involved in the first stages of PAHs degradation and that versatile peroxidase can be necessary for oxidation of some degradation products. This is the first report on versatile peroxidase induction by PAHs and their derivatives.
ACAT-1, Cav-1 and PrP expression in scrapie susceptible and resistant sheep
Authors: Orrù Cristina , Abete Claudia , Dolores Cannas M. , Mulas Claudia , Norfo Claudia , Mandas Antonella , Vascellari Sarah , Colla Paolo , Dessì Sandra , Pani Alessandra
Published: November 2009

Scrapie is a prion disease for which no means of ante-mortem diagnosis is available. We recently found a relationship between cell susceptibility to scrapie and altered cholesterol homeostasis. In brains and in skin fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy and scrapie-affected sheep carrying a scrapie-susceptible genotype, the levels of cholesterol esters were consistently higher than in tissues and cultures derived from animals with a scrapie-resistant genotype. Here we show that intracellular accumulation of cholesterol esters (CE) in fibroblasts derived from scrapie-susceptible sheep was accompanied by parallel alterations in the expression level of acyl-coenzymeA: cholesterol-acyltransferase (ACAT1) and caveolin-1 (Cav-1) that are involved in the pathways leading to intracellular cholesterol esterification and trafficking. Comparative analysis of cellular prion protein (PrPc) mRNA, showed an higher expression level in cells from animals carrying a susceptible genotype, with or without Scrapie. These data suggest that CE accumulation in peripheral cells, together with the altered expression of some proteins implicated in intracellular cholesterol homeostasis, might serve to identify a distinctive lipid metabolic profile associated with increased susceptibility to develop prion disease following infection.
In-vivo effects of nociceptin and its structural analogue [Orn9] nociceptin on the antioxidant status of rat blood and liver after carrageenan-induced paw inflammation
Authors: Petrov Lubomir , Tzvetanova Elina , Pavlova Almira , Alexandrova Albena , Zamfirova Rositsa , Kirkova Margarita , Todorov Simeon
Published: November 2009

The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells is well balanced with their elimination by the antioxidant defence system. This balance is essential for maintenance of physiological conditions, and its disturbance (oxidative stress) has been suggested as a potential pathogenic mechanism in a variety of diseases, accompanied by inflammation. In this study, the in-vivo effects of nociceptin (N/OFQ(1–13)NH2) and its structure analogue [Orn9]N/OFQ(1–13)NH2 were studied on markers of oxidative stress in erythrocytes and liver of rats 4 hours after subplantar administration of carrageenan (CG) (1%, 100 µl) in the right hind paw. A considerable inflammatory oedema of the paw was observed. CG did not change blood haemoglobin content, hematocrit value, glutathione level and antioxidant enzyme activities in the erythrocytes, but there was an increase in lipid peroxidation. In liver, CG-induced imbalance was manifested by an increase in lipid peroxidation and a decrease in glutathione level. Both peptides (20 µg, i.p.), when administered alone, had no effect on all parameters tested. When either [Orn9]N/OFQ(1–13)NH2 or N/OFQ(1–13)NH2 was injected simultaneously with CG or 15 minutes before it, they did not affect the CG-induced changes in the antioxidant status of the erythrocytes and liver. Our results suggest that the peptides tested did not play a role in the free radical processes that accompany CG-induced paw inflammation.
The role of acidity profile in the nanotubular growth of polyaniline
Authors: Konyushenko Elena , Trchová Miroslava , Stejskal Jaroslav , Sapurina Irina
Published: November 2009

Conditions of polyaniline (PANI) nanotubes preparation were analyzed. Aniline was oxidized with ammonium peroxydisulfate in 0.4 M acetic acid. There are two subsequent oxidation steps and the products were collected after each of them. At pH > 3, neutral aniline molecules are oxidized to non-conducting aniline oligomers. These produce templates for the subsequent growth of PANI nanotubes, which takes place preferably at pH 2–3. At pH < 2, granular morphology of the conducting PANI is obtained. High final acidity of the medium should be avoided in the preparation of nanotubes, e.g., by reducing the amount of sulfuric acid which is a by-product. Reduction of the peroxydisulfate-to-aniline mole ratio was tested for this purpose in the present study. Lowering of the reaction temperature from 20°C to −4°C had a positive effect on the formation of nanotubes.
Fuels obtained by thermal cracking of individual and mixed polymers
Authors: Mlynková Božena , Bajus Martin , Hájeková Elena , Kostrab Gabriel , Mravec Dušan
Published: November 2009

Utilization of oils/waxes obtained from thermal cracking of individual LDPE (low density polyethylene), HDPE (high density polyethylene), LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), or cracking of mixed polymers PP/LDPE (1: 1 mass ratio), HDPE/LDPE/PP (1: 1: 1 mass ratio), HDPE/LDPE/LLDPE/PP (1: 1: 1: 1 mass ratio) for the production of automotive gasolines and diesel fuels is overviewed. Thermal cracking was carried out in a batch reactor at 450°C in the presence of nitrogen. The principal process products, gaseous and liquid hydrocarbon fractions, are similar to the refinery cracking products. Liquid cracking products are unstable due to the olefins content and their chemical composition and their properties strongly depend on the feed composition. Naphtha and diesel fractions were hydrogenated over a Pd/C catalyst. Bromine numbers of hydrogenated fractions decreased to values from 0.02 g to 6.9 g of Br2 per 100 g of the sample. Research octane numbers (RON) before the hydrogenation of naphtha fractions were in the range from 80.5 to 93.4. After the hydrogenation of naphtha fractions, RON decreased to values from 61.0 to 93.6. Diesel indexes (DI) for diesel fractions were in the range from 73.7 to 75.6. After the hydrogenation of diesel fractions, DI increased up to 104.9.
Core scale heterogeneity and resistivity modeling for accurate fluid status and saturation evaluation in non Archie Carbonate reservoir, Libya
Authors: Elsadawi A. , Umbhauer Francois , Rebelle Michel , Leduc Jean Pierre , Guyotte Eric
Published: November 2009

Low Resistivity Pay intervals are often present along carbonate reservoirs sections and bring a lot of problems in fluid determination and saturation assessment. An integrated methodology has been developed from a well documented Libyan field case to tackle these problems. The resistivity logs run in this reservoir formation, drilled with water based mud, lead after interpretation to predict values of water saturation higher than 70%, despite low BSW observed after perforation. The feeling was that actual water saturation was much lower, from core observations showing that the problematic interval was very heterogeneous, with macro porous oil bearing patches embedded in a micro porous water bearing background. This particular texture could have generated an electrical bypass of hydrocarbon filled connected porosity, leading to a biased estimation of oil volume while interpreting resistivity with conventional Archie's m=n=2 parameters. The workflow designed to improve such formations characterisation follows 3 steps:–Acquisition and processing of Computed Tomography scanner images to visualise reservoir heterogeneities in 3D along the cored section, completed by minipermeameter acquisitions to characterise them in terms of reservoir quality.–Building of a core scale geological model of the cored interval and of its wellbore section, constrained by a CT scan derived facies cube and petrophysical properties based on core measurements (conventional plugs, core minipermeameter, SCAL data, including Interfacial Tension and capillary Pressure measurements). A reference average saturation data was obtained from this core scale geomodel.–Forward modelling of the resistivity response of a 2D section derived from the core geomodel, using a research software simulating the invasion process, to be compared with field acquired resistivity curves.

This approach allowed to verify that the bias in saturation evaluation was, as expected, directly explained by the complex 3D heterogeneity of the reservoir, not detected by conventional logs, and not accurately represented by the conventional values of Archie's parameters. Average water saturation value of 51%, derived from core geomodel was found more consistant with production data, through fractional flow analysis, than the 77% one obtained from resistivity logs interpretation, considering conventional Archie's parameters. These results can be used to correct the log saturation of equivalent facies intervals in case resistivity tools only are available, providing image log or geological knowledge lead to their identification.
Indoor Housing during Development Affects Moult, Carotenoid Circulation and Beak Colouration of Mallard Ducks (Anas Platyrhynchos)
Authors: Butler Michael W. , McGraw Kevin J.
Published: November 2009

Developmental conditions are known to influence adult phenotypes, including naturally selected traits such as structural size, as well as sexually selected traits such as song and colouration. Biotic environmental factors, e.g., neonatal nutrition and health, are especially known to shape expression of adult traits, but there are fewer investigations on the role of abiotic conditions (e.g., lighting, climate) during the post-natal period. Moreover, the majority of such studies in birds is limited to galliforms and fail to examine sexual signals. We reared mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) drakes under several different husbandry regimes-outdoors with a natural, early-spring photoperiod, or indoors with an artificial, late-spring photoperiod provided by either high-quality or low-quality indoor lights. We tracked growth, moult progress, antioxidant (carotenoid and vitamin A) circulation, and beak colouration (a sexually selected trait) during development and into adulthood. It was found that birds housed outdoors completed moult significantly faster and exhibited more saturated beak colouration at adulthood compared to birds reared indoors under either high or low-quality lighting. Body mass and antioxidant circulation generally did not differ between outdoor-reared birds and those reared indoors on high-quality lighting; however, those reared under high-quality indoor light were heavier than those reared under low-quality light. These results indicate that environmental conditions during ontogeny can impact the development of a sexually attractive phenotype (e.g., faster moult, more colourful bare-parts) in mallards, although the nature of our experimental design does not identify specific causal factors. This finding has implications for the proper husbandry and plumage maintenance of a model avian species.
Population Status of Breeding Saker Falcons (Falco Cherrug)in Turkey
Authors: Dixon Andrew , Ragyov Dimitar , Ayas Zafer , Deli Mehmet , Demerdzhiev Dimitar , Angelov Ivaylo , Kmetova Elena , Nedyalkov Nedko
Published: November 2009

The Saker Falcon Falco cherrug breeds in Turkey and also occurs in the country during passage and in winter. Turkey represents the southwestern range limit of the global breeding distribution of the species and is relatively isolated from the neighbouring population centres in Europe and Central Asia. A review of literature and other record sources indicated that the 19th century breeding population in Thrace had disappeared by the 1950s, in line with dramatic declines in the Southern Balkans. We could find no data on the Saker Falcon population elsewhere in Turkey prior to the 1960s. In the 1960s, the Saker Falcon was a rare breeding species found mainly in steppe habitats of Central and Eastern Anatolia. Despite increased ornithological recording activity in the country, the number of Saker Falcon records declined in the 1980s and 1990s, probably because of habitat loss, a reduction in the Anatolian Souslik (Spermophilus xanthoprymnus) population and the activities of falcon trappers. A recent resurgence in records since 2000 probably reflects an increase in ornithological recording by resident and visiting ornithologists. Our survey in 2007 confirmed that the Saker is a rare breeding species in Central and Eastern Anatolia despite there being much apparently suitable habitat and prey available in these regions. It is not clear whether or not the Saker population in Turkey is currently held at a low level by anthropogenic factors or whether the low population size is a characteristic of an isolated population of a species occurring at the edge its global distribution range.
Italian Autochthonous Chicken Breeds Conservation: Evaluation of Biodiversity in Valdarnese Bianca Breed (Gallus Gallus Gallus Domesticus)
Authors: Strillacci Maria G. , Marelli Stefano P. , Cozzi Maria C. , Colombo Elena , Polli Michele , Gualtieri’ Manuela , Cristalli Alessandro , Pignattelli Paolo , Longeri Maria , Cavalchini Luigi Guidobono
Published: November 2009

Three fowl breeds, Valdarnese Bianca, a traditional white feathered breed from Tuscany, Golden Comet® a commercial hybrid and Livornese Bianca, a white leghorn type, were genotyped at eight microsatellite loci. A total of 74 alleles were detected with locus ADL181 recorded the lowest (six alleles) and locus ADL136 the highest (15 alleles) allele frequencies respectively. Heterozygosity values ranged from 0.210 (locus ADL210) to 0.742 (locus ADL176). The Wright's fixation index values were 0.089 (FST), 0.300 (FIs) and 0.363 (FIT). Factorial correspondence analysis and a dendrogram individual tree constructed using individual genetic distances showed genetic differentiation of the three breeds.
Weak Correlation between Eggshell Thickness and Breaking Strength in Japanese Quail Suggests a need for Separate Assessment
Authors: Niemann Lars , Gericke Christine , Grote Konstanze , Chahoud Ibrahim
Published: November 2009

Based on experimental evidence obtained in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), concurrent determination of eggshell breaking strength in avian reproduction studies in addition to the routine parameter eggshell thickness is recommended. After transformation of breaking strength data, a regression analysis was performed on a large sample of eggs (n = 815) from untreated hens. A need for concurrent assessment of both endpoints was substantiated by their poor correlation that became apparent by a rather low coefficient of determination (r2) of less than 15%. It was further supported by strongly diverging results when sub-sets of eggs from smaller and more homogenous groups of quail in a number of one-generation studies were analysed for correlation of the two parameters.
Glycaemic Status of Diabetic Patients Attending a District Diabetic Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Ekram ARM Saifuddin , Huda M Nazmul
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3786TAJ 2008; 21(2)
Neurological Manifestations of Puffer Fish Poisoning and Its Outcome: Study of 83 Cases
Authors: Haque M Azizul , Islam Q Tarikul , Razzak MA , Faiz MA , Bari M Iqbal
Published: November 2009

The study was carried out in Medicine and Pediatrics Department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, and Natore Sadar Hospital, both are located in the northern territory of Bangladesh. Period of study ranged from admission of patients till discharge. On 8th June 2008, 83 patients of Singra Upazilla Natore were admitted in Rajshahi Medical College Hospital and Natore Sadar Hospital with the history of consumption of Puffer fish. A presumptive diagnosis of Puffer fish poisoning was made on the basis of classical clinical presentations followed by Puffer fish ingestion. Blood and urine samples from 38 patients were sent to Frankfurt, Germany for toxicological analysis. The cases were clinically reviewed periodically and routine investigations were done. Report of the toxicological study confirmed the diagnosis of tetrodotoxin poisoning. Important neurological symptoms observed were peri-oral paresthesia (71), tingling over entire body (50), dizziness (35), headache (20). Muscular paralysis of the limbs was noted in 13 patients, of which 7 patients developed respiratory involvement. All the patients who developed respiratory involvement died. Early diagnosis and supportive management could ensure a safe and favorable outcome. Management of respiratory failure by ventilator support can be life saving. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3790 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 121-125
Clinico-Pathological Correlation of Abdominal Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Mostanzid SM , Ashraf F , Haque M
Published: November 2009

Abdominal lymphadenopathies are not uncommon in our population that we encounter during laparotomy done for various reasons. Many times patients present with chronic abdominal pain, even features of intestinal obstruction where mesenteric tuberculosis remains at the background. This study was done with an aim to see the clinico- pathological relation of incidental findings of abdominal lymphadenopathy found during laparotomy which was done for other causes. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3791 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 126-131
Surgical Repair of Open Achilles Tendon Injuries Using No.1 Prolene to Pull Down the Proximal Tendon: A Safe Technique
Authors: Ahmed Sayed , Roy Debashis , Ahmed S Uddin , Haque M Enamul , Rahman Moshidur
Published: November 2009

From July 1998 to October 2004 forty-seven patients with open tendo-Achilles injuries were treated pull down the proximal tendon with no.1 prolene. In this surgical method no.1 prolene was threaded through the proximal tendon and the same suture material passed through the distal tendon and its bilateral ends were tightened over the rubber button either under the heel or by the sides of the heel. Box sutures apposed cut ends of the tendon. The ankle was placed in the cast in near neutral position. At six weeks the cast was removed and active flexion program was started. Partial weight bearing was allowed at seven weeks and full bearing was allowed at ten weeks after surgery. The average follow up period is 1.8 years. All the patients exhibited full range of motion at the final follow-up. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3792 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 132-134
Urological Injuries Following Obstetric and Gynecological Surgeries
Authors: Robbani ABM Golam , Ashraf Fatema , Akhtar Hasina , Mostanzid SM
Published: November 2009

Obstetric and gynecological surgeries are not uncommon cause of iatrogenic injury to the urinary tract. In this study, we retrospectively report our experiences with these injuries over the last 8 years. Between January-2000 and December-2008, 80 female with age range of 21 to 65 years, presented to us with various urological injuries following obstetric or gynecological surgeries. The types of injury were as follows: vesico-vaginal fistula (56), uretero-vaginal fistula (14), unilateral ureteral ligation (5), bilateral ureteral ligation (2), ureteral trans-section (2), and vesico-uterine fistula (1). In this series, all patients of urological injuries due to obstetric or gynecological surgery were cured of their complications and were free of any complain related to the procedures, except 3 cases of VVF who experienced a failed initial repair. They were managed successfully by 2nd surgery. Injury may occur during obstetric and gynecological surgeries to the urinary tract. This iatrogenic injury imposes a great impact on physical and mental conditions of the patient and her family. Therefore, it is mandatory for the gynecologists and obstetricians to pay careful attention to the anatomy of the urinary tract in order to avoid such iatrogenic injuries. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3793 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 135-139
Early Hepatotoxicity of Methotrexate in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Parvin M Shakila , Rashid Mamun Ur , Ekram ARM Saifuddin , Begum H Ara
Published: November 2009

The present study was undertaken to evaluate methotrexate induced early hepatotoxicity in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This study was carried out on ARA criteria fulfilling 35 diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis patients of either gender, aged 20-60 years, presented in Medicine Department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi from July 2007 to June 2008. Patients with normal liver function tests and HBsAg and anti-HCV negative cases were given oral Methotrexate (10-25mg/week) for 3 months. Baseline level of SGPT, serum bilirubin and prothrombin time was 10.07±0.32u/l, 0.59±0.03mg/dl and 12.97±0.34 seconds respectively. After 3 months of methotrexate therapy, level of SGPT, serum bilirubin and prothrombin time was found to be 12.60±1.16 u/l, 0.70±0.06mg/dl and 13.87±0.45 seconds respectively. During methotrexate therapy SGPT level changed significantly (p<0.05). Change of serum bilirubin and prothrombin time was not significant. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3795 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 147-151
Role of Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Urinary Bladder Neoplasm with Histopathological Correlation
Authors: Islam AHM Tohurul , Mostafa Syeda Nazlee , Rahman Mizanur , Nahar Ziban
Published: November 2009

A descriptive study was carried out on 41 consecutive patients of clinically suspected bladder tumor presented with haematuria, which were studied by ultrasonography and was confirmed histopathologically. Per abdominal sonographic scan of KUB region, especially lower abdomen was done in full bladder state in supine position. Bladder lumens as well as peri-vesical structures were also studied. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography were 96.87% and 60% respectively. The accuracy of ultrasonography was 91.89%. Positive predictive value 93.39% and negative predictive value was 75%. Histopathological types of bladder tumor where 90.63% were transitional cell carcinoma, 6.25% were adenocarcinoma and 3.13% were squamous cell carcinoma. The highest incidence was noted in the posterior wall of the bladder (53.13%) followed by lateral walls (35.50%), roof (03.13%) & the bladder neck (06.25%). The peak age incidence was in 5th to 7th decade, having mean age 57.4 ±2.3 years. Male to female ratio was 9.67:1 and most of them having the habit of smoking (81.25%). Highest incidence of bladder tumor was found in subjects belonging to blood group ‘O' (53.13%), followed by ‘A' (25%), ‘B' (18.75%) ‘AB' (3.13%). All the cases belong to Rhesus positive group. Bladder tumor was higher among the low socio-economic group (43.75%), followed by below average (34.38%), average (15.63%) and good (6.25%). Ultrasound is a very useful modality in diagnosis of urinary bladder neoplasm, which is cheap, easily available, noninvasive and negligible discomfort. So, sonographic scan can be recommended as a useful diagnostic modality in respect of urinary bladder neoplasm. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3797 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 155-159
Study on Deliberate Self Harm in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Hussain AA Mamun , Ekram ARM Saifuddin , Alim MA , Ahad MA , Qais S , Alam M
Published: November 2009

The term ‘Deliberate Self Harm' (DSH) is often used to describe behaviors through which people inflict acute harm upon themselves with non-fatal outcome, when the behaviors are somewhat linked to, but do not result in death. This cross-sectional retrospective study included 66 subjects admitted with DSH in the Department of Medicine of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital during the period of January 2006 to July 2006. Among the respondents 57.57% were female and 42.42% were male, when they were mostly Muslims (89.39%) and only 10.61% were Hindus. As regards to occupation 46.96% were students, 30.30% were housewives and rest belong to others. 68.01% were in the age of 17-28 years. 50% were uneducated, 24.24% completed SSC and rests were in other classes. 42.42% were married, 45.45% were unmarried and others were either separated or divorced. DSH was mostly preceded by recent quarrel (34.84%), followed by poor interaction with parents (19.69%) and rejection of love (18.18%). The common adopted method of self-harm were ingestion of poisons (59.09%) and different self-medication (30.30%). 93.93% had the first attempt, 4.54% had second attempt and only 1 had the third attempt. The motivations were frustration (59.09%), making other feel guilty (25.75%) and to die (10.60%). Psychiatric diagnosis included relational problem (54.54%), major depressive disorder (34.84%), schizophrenia (4.54%) and adjustment disorder (3.03%). This study, in fact suggests a special need for the assessment of DSH and formulation of a comprehensive treatment approach. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3798 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 160-165
Cleidocranial Dysplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Haque M Azizul , Ekram ARM Saifuddin , Huda M Durrul
Published: November 2009

Cleidocranial dysplasia is an autosomal dominant disorder with a wide range of expression, characterized by clavicular aplasia or hypoplasia, retarded cranial ossification, supernumerary teeth, short stature and a variety of other skeletal abnormalities. We are reporting a case of Cleidocranial dysplasia with literature is review. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3799   TAJ 2008; 21(2): 166-169
Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Hoque M Azizul , Haque M Zahirul , Alam ABM Saiful , Islam AHM Tohurul , Rashid DA , Hossain M Jahangir
Published: November 2009

We report a case of a middle aged lady who presented with alteration of consciousness and dysphasia. She was found to have hyponatremia which was corrected rapidly. After initial improvement, she subsequently developed marked deterioration of conscious level with upper motor sign signs in all four limbs. Osmotic demyelination syndrome was diagnosed by MRI. Severe hyponatremia carries a risk of cerebral edema with a significant mortality, but correcting it too rapidly can result in even more disastrous condition- osmotic demyelination syndrome. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3800   TAJ 2008; 21(2): 170-173
Neurofibromatosis Type 2 Presenting with Ptosis
Authors: Islam AHM Tohurul , Tarafdar SR , Sheik T Rahman
Published: November 2009

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF 2), formerly called bilateral Acoustic Neurofibromatosis, is a distinct disease, which must be separated clinically and radiologically from Neurofibromatosis type 1. We presented a case of NF 2 of 20-year-old female presented with a rare symptom, rightsided ptosis due to superior rectus muscle paresis, multiple subcutaneous nodules and hearing impairment. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3801 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 174-176
Precocious Puberty: A Case Report
Authors: Akhtar Hasina , Guha Kaberi , Nahar Ziban
Published: November 2009

A 3-year-old girl was brought to Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for breast development and excessive vaginal discharge. Her medical history and family history were unremarkable. From investigations she was diagnosed as a case of precocious puberty. This case report emphasized how this condition should be evaluated and how the girl was managed. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3802 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 177-179
Malignant Melanoma in Anal Canal : A Case Report
Authors: Hasan M , Haque ANMM , Haque MR
Published: November 2009

A 60 years old postmenopausal lady was admitted in the surgery department of Islami Bank Medical College Hospital with complaints of a lump in anal region and occasional per rectal bleeding for six months. Examination revealed a small well defined globular mass in anal canal which extended from the anal verge up to lower rectum internally. Internal part was ulcerated from where foul smelling discharge was coming out. She had no history of exposure to any radiation or any surgery over the anal canal. On radiogram of the chest a cannon ball shadow was found. Incisional biopsy of the lesion revealed malignant melanoma. Abdomino-perineal resection of rectum and anal canal was done for the lesion with an uneventful postoperative period. Adjuvant therapy could not be instituted because the patient could not afford it. The patient carried herself well until she died at the ninth month postoperatively. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3803 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 180-181
Dietary Trans Fatty Acids: Impact on Serum Lipoproteins and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Ahsan Raghib
Published: November 2009

Recently, there has been considerable concern on the atherogenic potential of Trans Fatty Acids (TFA) present in food products produced with hydrogenated vegetable and marine oils. Hydrogenated fats containing TFAs are harmful for heart. Health authorities and Food regulatory agencies across the world, including WHO and FAO, have suggested food manufacturers to lower TFA content in their food products and called for a mandatory food labeling on packs for consumer information and protection. doi: 10.3329/taj.v21i2.3805 TAJ 2008; 21(2): 194-198
Examining Factors in the Research Institute on Addictions Self-Inventory (RIASI): Associations with Alcohol Use and Problems at Assessment and Follow-Up
Authors: Mann Robert E. , Stoduto Gina , Flam Zalcman Rosely , Nochajski Thomas H. , Hall Louise , Dill Patricia , Wells-Parker Elisabeth
Published: November 2009

Impaired driving is a leading cause of alcohol-related deaths and injuries. Rehabilitation or remedial programs, involving assessment and screening of convicted impaired drivers to determine problem severity and appropriate programs, are an important component of society’s response to this problem. Ontario’s remedial program, Back on Track (BOT), involves an assessment process that includes administration of the Research Institute on Addictions Self-Inventory (RIASI) to determine assignment to an education or treatment program. The purpose of this study is to identify factors within the RIASI and examine how factor scores are associated with alcohol use and problem indicators at assessment and six-month follow-up. The sample included 22,298 individuals who completed BOT from 2000 to 2005. Principal component factor analysis with varimax rotation was conducted on RIASI data and an eight factor solution was retained: (1) Negative Affect, (2) Sensation Seeking, (3) Alcohol-Quantity, (4) Social Conformity, (5) High Risk Lifestyle, (6) Alcohol Problems, (7) Interpersonal Competence, and (8) Family History. Regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between factors and alcohol and problem measures obtained at assessment and at follow-up. Most factors, except for Interpersonal Competence, were associated with more alcohol use and problems at assessment. A similar pattern was observed at 6-month follow-up, but interestingly some factors (Negative Affect, Sensation Seeking, Alcohol-Quantity and Family History) predicted fewer days of alcohol use. The Interpersonal Competence factor was associated with significantly lower levels of alcohol use and problems at both assessment and follow-up. This work suggests that the RIASI provides information on several domains that have important relationships with alcohol problem severity and outcomes.
Effect of Interface Structure on Mechanical Properties of Advanced Composite Materials
Authors: Gan Yong  X.
Published: November 2009

This paper deals with the effect of interface structures on the mechanical properties of fiber reinforced composite materials. First, the background of research, development and applications on hybrid composite materials is introduced. Second, metal/polymer composite bonded structures are discussed. Then, the rationale is given for nanostructuring the interface in composite materials and structures by introducing nanoscale features such as nanopores and nanofibers. The effects of modifying matrices and nano-architecturing interfaces on the mechanical properties of nanocomposite materials are examined. A nonlinear damage model for characterizing the deformation behavior of polymeric nanocomposites is presented and the application of this model to carbon nanotube-reinforced and reactive graphite nanotube-reinforced epoxy composite materials is shown.
Synthesis of 4-[4-(4-nitrobenzylideneiminophenylene)phenyleneimino methylidene] phenol
Authors: Marin L. , Cozan V.
Published: November 2009

The azomethine 1 was prepared as described elsewhere [1].[...]
Total Synthesis and Absolute Configuration of the Marine Norditerpenoid Xestenone
Authors: Ota Koichiro , Kurokawa Takao , Kawashima Etsuko , Miyaoka Hiroaki
Published: November 2009

Xestenone is a marine norditerpenoid found in the northeastern Pacific sponge Xestospongia vanilla. The relative configuration of C-3 and C-7 in xestenone was determined by NOESY spectral analysis. However the relative configuration of C-12 and the absolute configuration of this compound were not determined. The authors have now achieved the total synthesis of xestenone using their developed one-pot synthesis of cyclopentane derivatives employing allyl phenyl sulfone and an epoxy iodide as a key step. The relative and absolute configurations of xestenone were thus successfully determined by this synthesis.
A Submarine Journey: The Pyrrole-Imidazole Alkaloids
Authors: Forte Barbara , Malgesini Beatrice , Piutti Claudia , Quartieri Francesca , Scolaro Alessandra , Papeo Gianluca
Published: November 2009

In his most celebrated tale “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, Oscar Wilde stated that “those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril”. This sentence could be a prophetical warning for the practitioner who voluntarily challenges himself with trying to synthesize marine sponge-deriving pyrrole-imidazole alkaloids. This now nearly triple-digit membered community has been growing exponentially in the last 20 years, both in terms of new representatives and topological complexity − from simple, achiral oroidin to the breathtaking 12-ring stylissadines A and B, each possessing 16 stereocenters. While the biosynthesis and the role in the sponge economy of most of these alkaloids still lies in the realm of speculations, significant biological activities for some of them have clearly emerged. This review will account for the progress in achieving the total synthesis of the more biologically enticing members of this class of natural products.
Regioselective Synthesis of New 2-(E)-Cyano(thiazolidin-2-ylidene)thiazoles
Authors: Bakavoli Mehdi , Beyzaie Hamid , Rahimizadeh Mohammad , Eshghi Hossein , Takjoo Reza
Published: November 2009

Cyclocondensation of 2-[bis(methylthio)methylene]malononitrile (1) and cysteamine (2) afforded 2-(thiazolidin-2-ylidene)malononitrile (3). This compound on treatment with NaSH gave the corresponding thioamide derivative 4a in a regioselective manner on the basis of its single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Reaction of this compound with several α-bromocarbonyl compounds gave new 2-(E)-cyano(thiazolidin-2-ylidene)thiazoles 5a-g.
New Cucurbitane Triterpenoids and Steroidal Glycoside from Momordica charantia
Authors: Liu Jie-Qing , Chen Jian-Chao , Wang Cui-Fang , Qiu Ming-Hua
Published: November 2009

Three new cucurbitane triterpenoids 1–3 and one new steroidal glycoside 4, were isolated together with ten known compounds from Momordica charantia. The structures of new compounds were determined to be 19(R)-n-butanoxy-5β,19-epoxycucurbita-6,23-diene-3β,25-diol 3-O-β-glucopyranoside (1), 23-O-β-allopyranosylecucurbita-5,24-dien-7α,3β,22(R),23(S)-tetraol 3-O-β-allopyranoside. (2), 23(R),24(S),25-trihydroxycucurbit-5-ene 3-O-{[β-glucopyranosyl(1→6)]-O-β-glucopyranosyl}-25-O-β-glucopyranoside (3), and 24(R)-stigmastan-3β,5α,6β-triol-25-ene 3-O-β-glucopyranoside (4), respectively. Their structures were elucidated by the combination of mass spectrometry (MS), one and two-dimensional NMR experiments and chemical reactions.
Synthesis and Study of Novel Coumarin Derivatives Potentially Utilizable as Memory Media
Authors: Flašík Radoslav , Stankovičová Henrieta , Gáplovský Anton , Donovalová Jana
Published: November 2009

Novel coumarin derivatives, 2-oxo-2H-chromenecarbaldehyde hydrazones were prepared by reaction of substituted 2-oxo-2H-chromenecarbaldehydes with N-aminoimides in ethanol in the presence of 4-toluenesulfonic acid as catalyst. The photochromic and thermochromic properties of the prepared compounds were investigated.
Sustainability of Ancient Water Supply Facilities in Jerusalem
Authors: Barghouth Jamal M. , Al-Sa`ed Rashed M. Y.
Published: November 2009

This paper presents an overview on the sustainability of ancient water supply systems in Jerusalem from the Chalcolithic period (4500–3200 B.C.) until the present time. Archaeological evidences and landscape settings were applied utilizing all available and accessible literature relevant to ancient water resources management in Jerusalem. Irrigated agriculture was practiced for many centuries in this region, hence sustainable water supply facilities were erected, including well developed aqueducts, water harvesting pools and irrigation channels for water storage and landscaping purposes. To cope with seismic events, soil subsidence and water leakage, ancient water engineers and architects applied innovative construction methods for the erection of water pools, channels and aqueduct systems. Ancient water supply systems in Jerusalem are valuable treasures of past civilizations and crucial urban environmental facilities and their protection is consistent with sustainable development principles. Effective environmental assessment as a decision-making process for sustainable development can be applied to preserve threatened ancient water facilities from major development proposals and urban infrastructure projects in Jerusalem.