bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional assessment of children at Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital
Authors: Rijal P , Sharma A , Shrestha S , Upadhyay S
Published: December 2011

Background: Child malnutrition is the single biggest contributor to under-five morbidity and mortality. Objectives: To assess the prevalence and types of malnutrition in children below 60 months of age, attending outpatient department at Nepal medical college teaching hospital in Attarkhel, Kathmandu, Nepal. Methods: A prospective study was carried out in five hundred and twelve children below 60 months of age from September 2010 to April 2011. Children detailed history, sex, weight were recorded and length/height were measured using standard technique. The length /height and weight were plotted on WHO centiles curves.1The malnutrition were graded according to WHO classification. Result: Out of 512 children, according to WHO based on weight for age assessment , 148 (28.9%) were undernourished .Subsequently, in weight for height analysis, 73 (14.2%) were wasted and in height for age assessment, 64 (12.5%) were stunted. The present study also shows , 59 (11.5%), 50 (9.80%) and 14 (2.7%) children with acute, chronic and acute on chronic malnutrition. Conclusion: This study revealed that a high prevalence of undernutrition exists in Nepalese children. Overall, 28.9% children were undernourished. Illiteracy, large family size, not exclusively breast feeding, delayed weaning and low socio- economic status are the major risk factors for malnutrition. Keywords: anthropometry; undernutrition; World Health Organization. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5588   HR 2011; 9(3): 184-188
Knowledge and practice of mothers regarding breast feeding: a hospital based study
Authors: Chaudhary RN , Shah T , Raja S
Published: December 2011

Background: Although breastfeeding is a common practice in Nepal, proper breastfeeding is on the decline due to several factors. The impact of knowledge about breastfeeding practice, i.e., duration of breastfeeding, proper techniques, proper time of weaning is poorly understood. Objective: To assess the knowledge and actual practices of mothers regarding breastfeeding. Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out on 200 mothers of under 1 year old children who attending the pediatric Out Patient Department, well baby clinic and immunization clinic at BPKIHS, Dharan. Mothers were interviewed using pre-designed questionnaire. Result: All mothers knew that they had to breast feed their babies, but they did not have adequate knowledge about the appropriate way of breastfeeding. 10% knew that they have to initiate breast feeding within ½ hour of birth, 10% had idea on prelacteal feed, 25% had idea on importance of colostrums, 15% knew the meaning of exclusive breast feeding, and 15% of the mothers had idea on importance of night feeding. 41.5% mothers initiated breast feeding within ½ hour of birth, 33% mothers gave prelacteal feed, colostrum was fed by 95%, 15% were practicing exclusive breast feeding, 90% mothers were practicing night feeds, 15% mothers practiced feeding one side at a time, 60% mothers were practicing inappropriate attachment and positioning, None of the mothers got any advice regarding breast feeding during ANC visits. Conclusion: Undesirable cultural practices such as giving prelacteal feeds, late initiation of breastfeeding after birth, delay in introduction of weaning foods and avoiding exclusive breastfeeding are still prevalent among the mothers. The maternal knowledge towards breast feeding was inadequate and there was a big gap between actual and desired practices. Keywords: breast feeding; colostrums; weaning DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5590   HR 2011; 9(3): 194-200
Generalized granuloma annulare
Authors: Kar S , Mohankar A , Krishnan A , Preetha K
Published: December 2011

A 55 year old female came to Skin OPD with extensive pruritic annular papules and plaques over both upper limbs, lower limbs, back and abdomen. Biopsy from one of the lesion confirmed histopathologiclly Granuloma annulare. This case is being presented for its extensive skin involvement without any systemic disorder. Keywords: Generalized Granuloma Annulare DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5592  HR 2011; 9(3): 207-209
Hemangiopericytoma in the retroperitoneal space
Authors: Bajracharya A , Gupta R , Agrawal CS , Karki S
Published: December 2011

Introduction: A hemangiopericytoma is a rare, soft-tissue tumor of vascular origin derived from a pericyte of Zimmerman, which is a modified smooth muscle cell that surrounds the small blood vessels. Hemangiopericytomas can occur wherever there are vascular capillaries. However, there were no previous reports of a hemangiopericytoma in the retroperitoneal space. Case presentation: We describe the first reported case of a hemangiopericytoma found in the retroperitoneal space. A 25-year-old man presented with a palpable tumor on the left abdomen. Preoperative imaging indicated that the tumor was in the retroperitoneal space without invasion of other organs. A complete resection was performed via a midline incision. The histological and immunohistochemical staining patterns supported the diagnosis of a hemangiopericytoma. Conclusion: A complete resection without piecemeal excision is the best way to treat a hemangiopericytoma. Recognizing the presence of a hemangiopericytoma in the retroperitoneal space requires appropriate surgery. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5593   HR 2011; 9(3): 210-213
Comments on “Female Hydrocoele”
Authors: Maskey CP
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5594HR 2011; 9(3): 214
Acknowledgement v9i3
Authors: Editor The
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5596  HR 2011; 9(3): 216
Characteristics of Low-Speed Vehicle-Specific Power Distributions on Urban Restricted-Access Roadways in Beijing
Authors: Song Guohua , Yu Lei
Published: December 2011

The emission modeling approach has evolved from using the average speed associated with the driving cycle to using the parameter vehicle-specific power (VSP). With this evolution, a new research need focuses on developing ways to characterize traffic conditions by using the VSP distribution. For urban restricted-access roadways, an applicable mathematical model has been developed in existing studies to describe the VSP distributions based on the average travel speed for traffic with a speed higher than 20 km/h. For the average travel speed lower than 20 km/h, the characteristics of VSP distribution are still unclear. For this reason, this study uses large samples of second-by-second floating car data, collected from the expressways in Beijing, to associate the VSP distributions with the average travel speed from 0 to 20 km/h. After VSP distributions of 1,195 pieces of 60-s speed segments are examined, regular patterns are found between the VSP distribution and the average travel speed. Specifically, the highest fraction always appears in the VSP bin of 0, which decreases monotonically with the increase of the average travel speed. A mathematical model of VSP distribution is proposed on the basis of the separate analysis of VSP fractions in negative, zero, and positive VSP bins. A comparative analysis between the estimated and actual fuel consumption demonstrates that the proposed VSP distribution model is reliable and accurate for the estimation of fuel consumption. The findings of this study may help in monitoring the dynamic traffic fuel consumption or emissions when the real-time speed data are available.
Isolation and Characterization of Ciprofloxacin Resistant Salmonella from the Wastes of Hospital Patients
Authors: Chowdhury AMMA , Anwar M Nural
Published: December 2011

In this investigation, 12 ciprofloxacin resistant Salmonella were isolated from medical waste samples. Identified Salmonella isolates were then subjected to sensitivity analysis against five antibiotics. All the ciprofloxacin resistant Salmonella isolates were resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin, and penicillin and were considered multidrug resistant. Growth of four ciprofloxacin resistant Salmonella from four medical samples at various concentrations (50 to 500 mg/ml) was measured. Three of four Salmonella isolates from medical samples showed growth even against 500 mg/ml of ciprofloxacin. The occurrence of these highly resistant isolates in medical samples indicated the high percentage of undigested ciprofloxacin in medical waste sample. Agarose gel electrophoresis of these 12 isolates showed no plasmid DNA band indicating that observed resistance might be chromosomal gene mediated. Key words: Hospital wastes; Salmonella; Ciprofloxacin; Multidrug resistant DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9160 BJM 2010; 27(1): 6-9
Microbial Degradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon
Authors: Ahamed Forkan , Hasibullah M , Ferdouse Jannatul , Anwar M Nurul
Published: December 2011

The present research was undertaken to isolate and characterize petroleum hydrocarbon degrading microbes from ship-breaking yards at Vatiary and Kumira coast in Chittagong. Twenty different petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated composite samples were collected and the total bacterial count was found to vary between 2.7×103 cfu/ gm and 1.77×107 cfu/ gm. Ten isolates were finally selected through secondary screening by Bushnell-Hass mineral salt medium using kerosene, diesel and engine oil as carbon source. They were provisionally identified and found closely related to the species Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas alcaligenes, Listeria grayi, Bacillus pasteurii, Bacillus badius, Bacillus cirroflagellosus, Bacillus circulans, Bacillus brevis and Citrobacter freundii. Greasy spot test was used as the primary indicator of microbial degradation of kerosene, diesel and engine oil. A more specific experiment was carried out to estimate the rate of degradation by the isolates. The highest (96.8%) degradation of diesel was shown by B. brevis, followed by 92%, 88.8% and 84.8% of diesel degradation by the strains of P. alcaligenes, B. cirroflagellosus and C. freundii, respectively. The highest degradation of kerosene (78.26%) and engine oil (43.97%) by S. aureus and L. monocytogenes respectively, were also observed. Keywords: Microbes; Petroleum hydrocarbon; Degradation DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9161 BJM 2010; 27(1): 10-13
Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Escherichia coli from Goat of Apparently Healthy and Clinical Cases
Authors: Abdullah Abu Sayeed M , Khan M Shahidur Rahman , Alam Munirul , Haq Farjana , Hassan Jayedul
Published: December 2011

The prevalence of E. coli in faecal sample of apparently healthy and clinical cases of goats was investigated. A total of 150 samples of which 90 from clinical cases and 60 from apparently healthy goat were examined. Among the samples examined, 65(72.22%) and 25(41.67%) were found to be positive for E. coli in clinical and healthy cases respectably. The banding pattern of chromosome of isolated E. coli from goats of apparently healthy and clinical cases was also carried out by Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis through which the clonal relation between the isolated E. coli was studied. Chromosomal banding pattern of E. coli from goat of apparently healthy cases from same and different location were found identical which indicates similar clonal origin of E. coli. On the other hand, banding pattern of E. coli chromosome from diseased goat of different location were found dissimilar which may be either due to difference in origin of E. coli clone or phage encoded chromosome which can muted E. coli isolates. Thus it can be concluded that Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis profile varies according to severity of the disease.Keywords: Goat; E. coli; Isolation; Molecular CharacterizationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9162BJM 2010; 27(1): 14-17
Effects of Inoculation with Rhizobium and Arbuscular Mycorrhiza and Phosphorus on Growth, Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Pea Grown in Soil
Authors: Rahman MM , Solaiman ARM , Khanam D , Karim AJM Sirajul , Karim MA
Published: December 2011

The experiment was conducted in pot at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh to study the response of pea (Pisum sativum) cv. IPSA Motorshuti-3 to dual inoculation with Rhizobium (R) and Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) in presence and absence of phosphorus (P) on root colonization, spore population, nodulation, nitrogenase activity, growth, yield, and nutrient uptake by shoot. The performance of Rhizobium inoculant alone was superior to control in all the parameters of the crop studied. Among the treatments dual inoculation with Rhizobium and Arbuscular Mycorrhiza in combination with 25 kg P ha-1 performed best in recording per cent root colonization, number and dry weight of nodules, dry weight of shoots, nitrogenase activity, number of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod, pod and seed yields, and nutrient uptake by pea. This treatment combination recorded green pod yield of 12.0 g/plant (140 % increase over control) and mature pod yield of 7.0 g/plant (146% increase over control). The effect of this treatment was however similar to the effect of dual inoculation with R and AM in combination with 12.5 kg P ha-1 in most of the parameters. From the view point of nodulation, nitrogenase activity, growth, and yield of pea, dual inoculation with Rhizobium inoculant and arbuscular mycorrhiza in combination with 25 kg P ha-1 was considered to be the best for the supply of balanced combination of nutrients for achieving the maximum output through cultivation of pea in Shallow Red Brown Terrace soil of Bangladesh. Keywords: Pea; Rhizobium; Arbuscular mycorrhiza; Phosphorus DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9164 BJM 2010; 27(1): 22-27
Plasmid Curing of Escherichia coli Cells with Ethidium Bromide, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate and Acridine Orange
Authors: Zaman MA , Pasha MH , Akhter MZ
Published: December 2011

The plasmid eliminating abilities of acridine orange, ethidium bromide and sodium dodecyl sulfate were investigated on multi drug resistant Escherichia coli from urinary tract infection specimens. Three different concentrations of each curing agent (Et-Br, SDS and AO) were used. The frequencies of cured cells were 5.55 % (with 50 μg/ml) and 11.76 % (with 75 μg/ml) for acridine orange, 14.29 % (with 100 μg/ml), 21.05 % (with 100 μg/ ml), 17.65 % (with 125 μg/ml) for ethidium bromide and 7.4 % (with 10 % w/v) & 6.67 % (with 10 % w/v) for sodium dodecyl sulfate. However, no cured cells were obtained from 100 μg/ml acridine orange, 75 μg/ml ethidium bromide and 8 and 12 % SDS. Analysis of profiles of wild type and plasmid cured strains by electrophoresis yielded bands of varying sizes for wild type cells, but none were obtained for Et-Br cured cells. Acridine orange treated cells could eliminate only plasmids of 2.7 MDa and another smaller than 2 MDa. Key Words: Plasmid curing; Escherichia coli; Ethidium Bromide; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Acridine Orange. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i1.9165 BJM 2010; 27(1): 28-31
Growth, sporulation and toxin production by Bacillus thuringiensis isolates in media based on mustard-seed meal
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Hasibul , Akter Asma , Ilias Mohammad , Khan Shakila N , Hoq M Mozammel
Published: December 2011

This study was aimed at the large scale production and application of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) biopesticide in Bangladesh agriculture from locally available cheap raw materials. B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki HD-73 (reference strain) and two other indigenous isolates of B. thuringiensis namely Bt-Soil-47 and Bt-Insect-1i demonstrated satisfactory growth of sporulation and endotoxin production in a medium prepared from de-fatted mustard-seed meal (oil cake) as carbon and nitrogen sources at 30°C. A correlation of growth, sporulation and endotoxin production pattern was obtained through the systematic study over the period of 72 h. Time course study of the growth of all three Bt isolates demonstrated similar pattern; however, spore-crystal complex formation of the indigenous Bt isolates was different with respect to the reference strain. The two indigenous isolates formed the maximum sporecrystal complex at 36 h, whereas the reference strain did the same at 66 h. Hence, the productivity of endotoxin formation of the indigenous isolates, 34.30×10-3 and 37.50times;10-3 g/L/h respectively, were higher than that of the reference strain (21.37×10-3 g/L/h). Spore-crystal complex of the bacilli was recovered as dry powder which can be applied suitably in field to test their insecticidal activity. Molecular size of endotoxin of the isolates analyzed by SDS-PAGE resembled the typical sizes of the δ-endotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis. Keywords: Bacillus thuringiensis; spore-crystal complex; δ-endotoxin. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i2.9172 BJM 2010; 27(2): 51-55
Antimicrobial activity of n-hexane and Ethyl acetate extracts of Erythrina stricta Roxb
Authors: Hussain Mohammad Musarraf , Mughal M Mizanur Rahman , Alam Md Masud , Dastagir Mohammad Golam , Billah AHM Masum , Ismail M
Published: December 2011

The crude n-hexane and ethyl acetate extract of the stem bark of E. stricta were subjected to microbiological investigation and were found to be significantly inhibitory to microbial growth, with the average zone of inhibition 12–17 and 10–16 mm, respectively. In the cytotoxic observation, the n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts were found to show LC50 of 2.1 and 0.316 mg/ml respectively. Key words: Erythrina stricta; Fabaceae; Antimicrobial activities; Cytotoxicity observation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v27i2.9176 BJM 2010; 27(2): 65-66
Risk factor Analysis and Angiographic Profiles in First 228 Cases Undergone Coronary Angiography in Cardiac Cath Lab of Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Authors: Islam AEMM , Faruque M , Chowdhury AW , Khan HIR , Haque MS , Ali MS , Khan M , Sharma PK , Anar F , Karim MA , Rashid MA
Published: December 2011

Background: Coronary artery diseases are one of the major challenges faced by cardiologists. Control of certain risk factors for CAD is associated with decrease in mortality and morbidity from myocardial infarction and unstable angina. So, identification and taking appropriate measures for primary and secondary prevention of such risk factors is, therefore, of great importance. This retrospective study was carried at the newly set up cath lab in Dhaka Medical college. Materials and Methods: Total 228 consecutive case undergone diagnostic coronary angiogram from 10th January 2007 to31st January 2009 out of which 194(80%) were male and 34 (20%) were female. In both sexes most of the patients were between 41 to 60 years of age. Risk factors of the patients were evaluated. Results: In females commonest risk factor was Diabetes (58.8%) followed by dyslipidaemia (35.3%). In males commonest risk factor was hypertension (30.9%) followed by smoking (29.9%) and diabetes (28.3%). In males 44.3% patients presented with acute myocardial infarction followed by stable angina (43.3%); but in females stable angina was the commonest presentation (50.0%) followed by myocardial infarction (38.2%).CAG findings revealed that in males 33.5% had double vessel disease 26.8% followed by single vessel 26.8% and multivessel disease 25.3%. In females normal CAG was found in 35.5% followed by double vessel 23.5%, multivessel 20.6% and single vessel 20.6%. On the basis of CAG findings; in males 41.8% patients were recommended for CABG, followed by PTCA & stenting 26.3% and medical therapy 30.0%; where as in females 55.9% were recommended for medical therapy , followed by CABG 32.4% and PTCA & stenting11.8%. Conclusion: The commonest presentation of CAD was 4th and 5th decades in both sexes. Diabetes and dyslipidaemia were more common in females whereas hypertension and smoking were more common in males. Myocardial infarction and stable angina were most common presentation in both sexes though in males myocardial infarction was more common. In males the angiographic severity of CAD was more and they were more subjected for CABG in comparison to females. Key words: Risk factors; Coronary angiography. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9179 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 122-125
Study of 89 Cases of Peripheral Vascular Disease by CT Angiography
Authors: Faruque M , Islam AEMM , Haque S , Islam MT , Kibria MG , Hossain M , Salam MA , Rahman F , Hasnat MA , Khan HIL Rahman
Published: December 2011

Objective: The purpose of this study was to observe the morphological pattern by CT angiography and risk factors for development of peripheral vascular disease in Bangladeshi patient suffering from peripheral vascular disease using a multidetector scanner in the evaluation of patients with peripheral vascular disease. Subject and Method: Eighty nine patients with peripheral vascular disease who were referred for evaluation of peripheral vascular disease underwent CT angiography. We scanned patients from the level of the cerebral arteries to the pedal arteries in a single helical scan. CT angiograms were produced using maximum-intensity-projection, multiplanous reformation and reconstructions. Findings were graded according to nine categories: 1, normal (0% stenosis); 2, mild (1-49% stenosis); 3, moderate (50-74% stenosis); 4, severe (>75% stenosis); 5, tortuosity; 6, aneurysm, 7, calcification, 8, Arteriovenous malformation (AVM), and 9, haematoma. Results: We found Most of the patients in our study were male (69 out of 89 patients). The mean age was 54.49 ±18.36 in male and 49.45 ±17.89 for female. Commonest risk factor in our study was hypertension 46.1%, followed by diabetes 30.3%, family history 27% smoking 23.6%, dyslipidaemia13.5%. Stenosis (5.61%) was the predominate lesion followed by haematoma (4.49%), Arterio –venous malformation (4.49%). Abdominal aorta was mostly affected in the studied population (58.43%) followed by Lower limb (37.08%), Carotid (22.47%), Renal (7.87%) and Upper limb arteries (4.49%). Conclusion: CT angiography is a noninvasive technique for the imaging of peripheral vascular disease. Since no data is available from a well designed study in PVD in our country, till then the data obtained from this study can be used in Bangladesh. Key words: CT angiogram; Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9185 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 155-162
High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Mohsin MK , Ahmed MU
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9188Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 178-186
Acute Massive Pulmonary Embolism (AMPE): From Therapeutic to Protective Management - A Case Report
Authors: Reza AQM , G Attawar Sandeep , Munwar S , Siddique AB , Talukder SU , Hasan A , Islam AHMW
Published: December 2011

Key words: Massive Pulmonary embolism; Embolectomy; IVC Filter.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9191 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 213-217
Coil Occlusion of Coronary Cameral Fistula: A Case Report
Authors: Begum NNF , Haque AFM Shamsul , Rahman MF
Published: December 2011

Congenital coronary artery fistula is a rare anomaly that can cause several types of morbidity and mortality. Interventional occlusion of coronary artery fistula has become a well-accepted alternative to surgical therapy. A coronary cameral fistula originating from right coronary artery (RCA) and draining to right atrium (RA) was occluded with a detachable coil in a two years old girl in catheterization laboratory of Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Dhaka. This is the first ever case of coil occlusion of coronary cameral fistula in Bangladesh, which led to the writing of this report. Keywords: Coronary Cameral Fistula; Coil occlusion. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9192 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 218-221
Permanent Pacemaker for Sick Sinus Syndrome with Absent Right Superior Vena Cava  A Case Report.
Authors: Chanda PK , Ahmed N , Biswas S , Mehedi MM , DasGupta S , Rahman MA , Ahmed F
Published: December 2011

A 42 year old patient, admitted into our hospital for permanent implantation. Implantation of a permanent pacemaker was attempted by the transvenous approach via venous puncture of cephalic vein & subclavian vein on both sides but guide wire failed to pass. Coronary angiogram with cardiac catheterization was done & revealed absence of right superior vena cava and presence of persistant left superior vena cava. Under endotracheal general anesthesia (GA) with limited left thoracotomy epicardial pacemaker was implanted. Key Words: Permanent pacemaker; superior vena cava; persistent left superior vena cava DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v3i2.9195   Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 3(2): 230-232
Numerical Analysis of the Magnetic Field of High-Current Busducts and GIL Systems
Authors: Sarajcev Petar
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a numerical computation method for determining the magnetic field of high-current busducts of circular cross-section geometry, based on the subdivision of the busduct phase conductors and screens into the conductor filaments and the subsequent application of the mesh-current method, with the aid of the geometric mean distance method. The mathematical model takes into account the skin effect and the proximity effects, as well as the complete electromagnetic coupling between phase conductors and metal enclosures (i.e., screens) of the single-phase isolated busduct system (of circular cross-section geometry). This model could be readily applied to the computation of the magnetic field of the Gas Insulated Transmission Lines (GIL) as well.
Combined Extraction Processes of Lipid from Chlorella vulgaris Microalgae: Microwave Prior to Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction
Authors: Dejoye Céline , Vian Maryline Abert , Lumia Guy , Bouscarle Christian , Charton Frederic , Chemat Farid
Published: December 2011

Extraction yields and fatty acid profiles from freeze-dried Chlorella vulgaris by microwave pretreatment followed by supercritical carbon dioxide (MW-SCCO2) extraction were compared with those obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction alone (SCCO2). Work performed with pressure range of 20–28 Mpa and temperature interval of 40–70 °C, gave the highest extraction yield (w/w dry weight) at 28 MPa/40 °C. MW-SCCO2 allowed to obtain the highest extraction yield (4.73%) compared to SCCO2 extraction alone (1.81%). Qualitative and quantitative analyses of microalgae oil showed that palmitic, oleic, linoleic and α-linolenic acid were the most abundant identified fatty acids. Oils obtained by MW-SCCO2 extraction had the highest concentrations of fatty acids compared to SCCO2 extraction without pretreatment. Native form, and microwave pretreated and untreated microalgae were observed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). SEM micrographs of pretreated microalgae present tearing wall agglomerates. After SCCO2, microwave pretreated microalgae presented several micro cracks; while native form microalgae wall was slightly damaged.
Fabrication of Micrometer- and Nanometer-Scale Polymer Structures by Visible Light Induced Dielectrophoresis (DEP) Force
Authors: Wang Shue , Liang Wenfeng , Dong Zaili , Lee Vincent G. B. , Li Wen J.
Published: December 2011

We report in this paper a novel, inexpensive and flexible method for fabricating micrometer- and nanometer-scale three-dimensional (3D) polymer structures using visible light sources instead of ultra-violet (UV) light sources or lasers. This method also does not require the conventional micro-photolithographic technique (i.e., photolithographic masks) for patterning and fabricating polymer structures such as hydrogels. The major materials and methods required for this novel fabrication technology are: (1) any cross-linked network of photoactive polymers (examples of fabricated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-diacrylate hydrogel structures are shown in this paper); (2) an Optically-induced Dielectrophoresis (ODEP) System which includes an “ODEP chip” (i.e., any chip that changes its surface conductivity when exposed to visible light), an optical microscope, a projector, and a computer; and (3) an animator software hosted on a computer that can generate virtual or dynamic patterns which can be projected onto the “ODEP chip” through the use of a projector and a condenser lens. Essentially, by placing a photosensitive polymer solution inside the microfluidic platform formed by the “ODEP chip” bonded to another substrate, and applying an alternating current (a.c.) electrical potential across the polymer solution (typically ~20 Vp-p at 10 kHz), solid polymer micro/nano structures can then be formed on the “ODEP chip” surface when visible-light is projected onto the chip. The 2D lateral geometry (x and y dimensions) and the thickness (height) of the micro/nano structures are dictated by the image geometry of the visible light projected onto the “ODEP chip” and also the time duration of projection. Typically, after an image projection with intensity ranging from ~0.2 to 0.4 mW/cm2 for 10 s, ~200 nm high structures can be formed. In our current system, the thickness of these polymer structures can be controlled to form from ~200 nanometers to ~3 micrometers structures. However, in the in-plane dimensions, only ~7 μm resolution can be achieved now, due to the optical diffraction limit and the physical dimensions of DMD mirrors in the projector. Nevertheless, with higher quality optical components, the in-plane resolution is expected to be sub-micron.
Dynamic Sensing Performance of a Point-Wise Fiber Bragg Grating Displacement Measurement System Integrated in an Active Structural Control System
Authors: Chuang Kuo-Chih , Liao Heng-Tseng , Ma Chien-Ching
Published: December 2011

In this work, a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing system which can measure the transient response of out-of-plane point-wise displacement responses is set up on a smart cantilever beam and the feasibility of its use as a feedback sensor in an active structural control system is studied experimentally. An FBG filter is employed in the proposed fiber sensing system to dynamically demodulate the responses obtained by the FBG displacement sensor with high sensitivity. For comparison, a laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) is utilized simultaneously to verify displacement detection ability of the FBG sensing system. An optical full-field measurement technique called amplitude-fluctuation electronic speckle pattern interferometry (AF-ESPI) is used to provide full-field vibration mode shapes and resonant frequencies. To verify the dynamic demodulation performance of the FBG filter, a traditional FBG strain sensor calibrated with a strain gauge is first employed to measure the dynamic strain of impact-induced vibrations. Then, system identification of the smart cantilever beam is performed by FBG strain and displacement sensors. Finally, by employing a velocity feedback control algorithm, the feasibility of integrating the proposed FBG displacement sensing system in a collocated feedback system is investigated and excellent dynamic feedback performance is demonstrated. In conclusion, our experiments show that the FBG sensor is capable of performing dynamic displacement feedback and/or strain measurements with high sensitivity and resolution.
Evidence for a Shift to Anaerobic Metabolism in Adipose Tissue in Efavirenz-Containing Regimens for HIV with Different Nucleoside Backbones
Authors: McGee Kirsty C , Shahmanesh Mohsen , Boothby Meg , Nightingale Peter , Gathercole Laura L , Tripathi Gyanendra , Harte Alison L , Shojaee-Moradie Fariba , Umpleby A Margot , Das Satyajit , Al-Daghri Nasser M , McTernan Philip G , Tomlinson Jeremy W
Published: December 2011

Background

Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment has been associated with abnormalities in lipid and mitochondrial metabolism. We compared patterns of gene expression in the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of HIV-positive subjects before and after 18–24 months of ARV therapy with HIV-negative controls.

Methods

HIV patients naive to ARV were randomized to receive zidovudine (AZT), lamivudine (3TC) with efavirenz (EFV) or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) with emtricitabine (FTC) and EFV. Healthy controls ( n=15) were matched for age, ethnicity and gender. Patients on a regimen containing abacavir (ABC), 3TC and EFV for 18–24 months were also tested. Genes involved in adipocyte glucocorticoid, lipid and mitochondrial metabolism, and adipocyte differentiation, were profiled with real-time PCR.

Results

AZT led to increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT; P=0.012) and VAT:SAT ratio ( P=0.036), whereas TDF increased SAT ( P=0.047) and peripheral fat/ lean body mass ratio ( P=0.017). HIV treatment-naive patients had lower plasma lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity ( P=0.0001) versus controls (remaining below controls after ARV; P=0.038–0.0001). The overall pattern of gene expression was similar across all treatment groups, being most marked with AZT and least with TDF. There was up-regulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α, uncoupling protein-2 and hexose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and down-regulation of nuclear respiratory factor-1, cytochrome oxidase B, cytochrome c oxidase-4, uncoupling protein-3, 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1, glucocorticoid receptor-α, fatty acid synthase, fatty acid binding protein-4, LPL and hormone sensitive lipase (18–24 months post-treatment versus pretreatment levels and controls; P<0.05 to <0.0001).

Conclusions

The decreased expression of genes involved in lipid and mitochondrial metabolism 18–24 months post-ARV treatment in SAT of HIV patients, in conjunction with the increase in uncoupling protein-2 and decrease in cytochrome oxidase B gene expression, provides evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction and a shift to anaerobic metabolism within SAT in EFV-containing ARV regimens.
Action Research as a Strategy for Teaching an Undergraduate Research Course
Authors: Rodriguez Rachel
Published: December 2011

Action research is rarely, if ever, referred to in the textbooks used in undergraduate nursing programs. While redesigning a 2009–2010 research course for junior-level baccalaureate nursing students, the action research strategy was used to conduct a semester-long research project. After identifying a list of 15 health risks on campus, students prioritized and came to consensus on the health problem to be targeted. Each week, students followed the steps of the research process as the related topic was covered in class. At the end of the semester, students presented their findings at the annual on-campus Student Research Conference. Students have since completed a total of three campus-wide research projects. The results of these projects have been incorporated as a required assignment in the senior-level Community Health Nursing course and are now being used to create health promotion materials for the campus e-magazine.
Effects of Mental Illness on the Family: Experiential Family Assessment to Promote Students’ Affective Learning
Authors: Keeley Ann C. , Chase Lana
Published: December 2011

Mental health nursing faculty are challenged to connect with students on an affective level in their courses. One important strategy to promote affective learning is to understand the experience of the family caregiver. There is relatively little student access to family caregivers of individuals who are identified as severely and persistently mentally ill. Consequently, nursing students may not appreciate the myriad psychosocial challenges and adaptations that family caregivers of these individuals are forced to make, often for a lifetime. This article describes a unique teaching strategy that promotes cognitive and affective learning while also providing students with a clear window into the dynamics of families of people with mental illness.
Non-Full-Thickness Macular Holes: A Closer Look
Authors: Michalewska Zofia
Published: December 2011

Lamellar macular holes and macular pseudoholes are non-full-thickness defects of retinal tissue involving the anatomic fovea, thereby affecting central visual acuity. Non-full-thickness macular holes have been associated with myriad ocular conditions. Originally, lamellar macular holes were described as secondary to diabetic macular edema and macular pseudoholes as idiopathic. The pathogenesis of secondary non-full-thickness macular defects was recently confirmed by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. These may be mistaken for macular hole lesions, despite careful clinical examination. Careful biomicroscopic examination with a contact lens and optical coherence tomography help to ensure accurate diagnosis. Surgical management with or without air or gas tamponade improves visual acuity and foveal morphology in most eyes.
Retinoblastoma With Coats’ Response
Authors: Silva Ruwan A. , Dubovy Sander R. , Fernandes Cristina E. , Hess Ditte J. , Murray Timothy G.
Published: December 2011

Although it is well known that a variety of pediatric ocular diseases may clinically resemble retinoblastoma, perhaps of more concern is when the actual tumor mimics seemingly benign ocular lesions. The authors present two cases of retinoblastoma with a Coats’ response as evidence of the challenge often encountered in evaluating intraocular malignancies. The cases further emphasize the need for retaining a high level of clinical suspicion for more malicious diseases, often using repeated fundus evaluations when a diagnosis remains ambiguous.
effect of row arrangement, age of tiller seedling and number of tiller seedlings per hill on performance of transplant aman rice
Authors: Sarkar MAR , Paul SK , Hossain MA
Published: December 2011

The experiment was conducted to observe the effect of row arrangement, age of tiller seedlings and number of tiller seedlings hill-1 on the vegetative characters, yield and yield contributing characters of transplant aman rice. The experiment consisted of three levels of row arrangement viz. single row (row spacing 25cm), double row (row spacing 25-10-25cm)and triple row (row spacing 25-10-10-25cm), two types of tiller seedlings viz. 25 days and 35 days old; and three levels of number of tiller seedling hill-1 viz. 2, 4 and 6 seedlings hill-1. The experiment was laid out in a three factor Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The highest plant height, number of effective tillers hill-1, effectivity index of tillers, number of grains panicle-1 and harvest index were found in single row arrangement compared to double and triple row arrangements but number of total spikelets panicle-1 and grain yield were highest in double row arrangement. The highest number of non-bearing tillers hill-1, number of total tillers hill-1 and number of sterile spikelets panicle-1 were found in triple row arrangement compared to single and double row arrangements. The highest plant height, effectivity index of tillers, number of grains panicle-1, grain yield, harvest index and sterility percentage were found by transplanting 25-day old tiller seedlings. Number of total tillers hill-1, non-bearing tillers hill-1, straw yield and sterility percentage were highest by transplanting 35-day old tiller seedlings. Plant height, harvest index, grain yield and panicle length were highest when 2 tiller seedlings were transplanted hill-1. Number of total tillers hill-1 and number of non-bearing tillers hill-1 were highest when 6 tiller seedlings were transplanted hill-1.Transplanting in single and double row arrangements emerged out as a promising practice. This practice improved yield of transplant aman rice. Twenty five day old tiller seedlings was found to be suitable in respect of grain yield and 2 tiller seedlings hill-1 appeared to be enough for the cultivation of transplant aman rice. Key words: Row arrangement; tiller seedling; transplant aman riceDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v6i2.3860 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2011, vol .6, no 2, pp59-68
Effect of fruit and leaf exudates for the development of anthracnose and rust pathogens in uguressa
Authors: Wijesekara WMAUKM , Rajapakse RGAS , Dissanayake MLMC
Published: December 2011

Anthracnose and rust are widely spread diseases in leaves, ripening and ripe fruits of uguressa (Flacourta indica (Burmm.F). Merr) in Sri Lanka. An investigation carried out to determine the effect of fruit and leaf exudates for the development of anthracnose and rust pathogens in fruits and leaves of uguressa. The casual agent of anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and rust (Uromyces species) diseases were isolated and identified using morphological features of culture media, microscopic observations and Koch’s postulation. Exudates obtained from fruits of all maturity stages and leaves were separated into two fractions that are soluble in ether and water to investigate the effect fruit and leaf exudates for the differentiation of spores of both fungi. Conidia of C. gloeosporioides germinated and produced appressoria within 22 hours on fruit exudates of all maturity stages of uguressa fruits. The highest stimulation of conidia differentiation of C. gloeosporioides was observed in fruit exudates of ripe fruits which are highly susceptible for the anthracnose disease. Chemical substances found in both water soluble and ether soluble fractions enhanced conidia differentiation of C. gloeosporioides. Significantly highest lesion development of anthracnose found on ripe fruits compared to mature and immature fruits. Higher conidia differentiation of C. gloeosporioides was observed in original exudates of leaves compared to ether and water fractions. There was no effect of leaves and fruit exudates for germination on urediospores of Uromyces species. The study revealed uguressa fruits and leaf exudates have chemical substances to stimulate differentiation of spores of C. gloeosporioides and lesion development while there is no any chemical substances that stimulate the differentiation of Uromyces sp. Key words: Anthracnose; Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Exudates; Flacourta indica; Rust; Uromyces species DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v6i2.3862 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2011, vol .6, no 2, pp77-83
Quality standard labeling information on meat packs demanded by consumers and relationships with purchasing motives
Authors: De Silva PHGJ , Sandika SL
Published: December 2011

Worldwide, food-safety crises debates have come forward as an important aspect and apart from all debated food items, meat is accounted at top. Hence, a study was conducted to identify public awareness and adoption toward food certification standards and the factors that associate to Halal, SLS, ISO and HACCP purchase intention of meat. Purposive sampling approach was adopted and data were collected from 100 consumers who purchase meat products for their consumption through pre-tested structured questionnaire by personnel interview. The model explained R²= 0.69 and R²= 0.61 of the variability in awareness and adoption, respectively about the factors motivate consumers toward food certificate logo on meat packs. Around 80%, 46% and 30% of respondents have recorded as high awareness group with regard to SLS, ISO and HACCP standards respectively. Despite that utility of same information always or sometime on purchasing decision reported as low level. A significant relationship was observed for knowledge and utilizes logo of SLS, ISO, Halal and HACCP with socio demographic profiles including religion, gender, net income, education, occupation, interpersonal and mass media. Key words: Certificate standards; Meat packs; Awareness; Adoption DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v6i2.3863 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2011, vol .6, no 2, pp85-90
γδ T Cell Homing to Skin and Migration to Skin-Draining Lymph Nodes Is CCR7 Independent
Authors: Vrieling Manouk , Santema Wiebren , Van Rhijn Ildiko , Rutten Victor , Koets Ad
Published: December 2011

In most species, γδ T cells preferentially reside in epithelial tissues like the skin. Lymph duct cannulation experiments in cattle revealed that bovine dermal γδ T cells are able to migrate from the skin to the draining lymph nodes via the afferent lymph. For αβ T cells, it is generally accepted that epithelial and mucosal tissue egress is regulated by expression of the CCR7 chemokine receptor. In this study, we tracked the migratory route of bovine lymph-derived γδ T cells and examined their CCR7 cell surface expression in several compartments along this route. Total lymph cells from afferent and efferent origin were labeled with PKH fluorescent dyes and injected into the bloodstream. PKH+ cells already reappeared in the afferent lymph after 4 h. The vast majority of the PKH+ cells retrieved from the afferent lymph were of the WC1+ γδ T cell phenotype, proving that this PKH+ γδ T cell subset is able to home to and subsequently exit the skin. PKH+ γδ T cells from afferent and efferent lymph lack CCR7 surface expression and display high levels of CD62L compared with CD4 T cells, which do express CCR7. Skin homing receptors CCR4 and CCR10 in contrast were transcribed by both CD4 and γδ T cells. Our findings suggest that γδ T cell skin egress and migration into the peripheral lymphatics is CCR7-independent and possibly mediated by CD62L expression.
Loss of B7-H1 Expression by Recipient Parenchymal Cells Leads to Expansion of Infiltrating Donor CD8+ T Cells and Persistence of Graft-Versus-Host Disease
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Deng Ruishu , He Wei , Liu Can , Wang Miao , Young James , Meng Zhipeng , Du Chantal , Huang Wendong , Chen Lieping , Chen Yuanzhong , Martin Paul , Forman Stephen , Zeng Defu
Published: December 2011

Previous experimental studies have shown that acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is associated with two waves of donor CD8+ T cell expansion. In the current studies, we used in vivo bioluminescent imaging, in vivo BrdU labeling, and three different experimental GVHD systems to show that B7-H1 expression by recipient parenchymal cells controls the second wave of alloreactive donor CD8+ T cell expansion and the associated second phase of GVHD. Loss of B7-H1 expression by parenchymal cells during the course of GVHD was associated with persistent proliferation of donor CD8+ T cells in GVHD target tissues and continued tissue injury, whereas persistent expression of B7-H1 expression by parenchymal cells led to reduced proliferation of donor CD8+ T cells in GVHD target tissues and resolution of GVHD. These studies demonstrate that parenchymal cell expression of B7-H1 is required for tolerizing infiltrating T cells and preventing the persistence of GVHD. Our results suggest that therapies designed to preserve or restore expression of B7-H1 expression by parenchymal tissues in the recipient could prevent or ameliorate GVHD in humans.
Primary Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Retroperitoneum
Authors: Charhi Hind , Bernoussi Zakiya , Haddan Azzouz , Mesmoudi Siham , Elktaibi Abderrahim , Mansouri Fatima , Elktaibi Rachid , Lahlou Khalid , Jahid Ahmed , Mahassini Najat
Published: December 2011

Solitary fibrous tumor is an uncommon neoplasm affecting adults and typically located in the pleura and can also occur in a large number of other extra thoracic sites. We present the case of a solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) of the retroperitoneum and describe their histopathological and immunohistochemical features. The identification of SFT in the retroperitoneum is of importance because its clinico-pathological behaviour is still unclear. The pathologist plays a fundamental role in establishing both the positive and differential diagnosis.