bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of Hypertension in Bangladesh: A Review
Authors: Biswas Tuhin , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Islam Anwar
Published: October 2016

Hypertension is a major public health problemglobally in both the developed and developing countries. Hypertension leads to cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure and is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. The risk factors for hypertension, which can mostly be prevented through simple health promotion and preventive measures are mostly known. However, papers documenting the strategies for prevention of hypertension in Bangladesh is not available. The aim of this review study was to identify and discuss different approaches to prevent hypertension in Bangladesh. We performed a systematic search using electronic as well as manual method for published and unpublished reports of prevention of hypertension. We then identified and discussed prevention strategies for hypertension suitable for Bangladesh context. Although several methods have shown to prevent hypertension, the challenge remains in implementing these methods in resource poor settings. Integrated action based on comprehensive policy and stepwise implementation should be adopted taking into consideration of local needs. Hypertension prevention should focus on awareness generation, health promotion and reduction of common risk factors using a combination of population based approach and targeted individual interventions. Consorted actions should be taken as a priority to prevent hypertension through intersectoral, multidisciplinary and multilevel approach by the Government, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), civil societies and create greater awareness among the population for a healthy life-style.J MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 30-35
Ankylosing Spondylitis with Peripheral Neuropathy - A Rare Case Report
Authors: Biswas Sarmistha , Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Biswas Prodip Kumar , Rashid Md Harun Ur , Sarkar Prodip Kumar , Chowdhury Mostofa Kamal , Chowdhury Umme Kulsum , Bala Chandra Shekhar
Published: October 2016

Ankylosing Spondylosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of joints predominantly affecting the sacroiliac joints and spine. Besides the joints, it affects many extra articular sites like heart, eye, lungs etc. Neurological complication is very rare in AS. Here we report a case of a 30 years old man of AS with peripheral neuropathy.J MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 36-38
Bradyarrhythmia as a presenting feature of subclinical hyperthyroidism
Authors: Neki NS
Published: October 2016

Subclinical hyperthyroidism appears to be a common disorder. It may be caused by exogenous or endogenous factors: excessive TSH suppressive therapy with L-thyroxine (L-T4) for benign thyroidnodular disease, differentiated thyroid cancer, or hormone over-replacement in patients withhypothyroidism are the most frequent causes. Consistent evidence indicates that subclinicalhyperthyroidism reduces the quality of life, affecting both the psycho and somatic components ofwell-being, and produces relevant signs and symptoms of excessive thyroid hormone action, oftenmimicking adrenergic overactivityJ MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 39-40
A Rare Presentation of Sarcoidosis with SIADH: A Case Report
Authors: Banday Tanveer Hassan , Naik Vikas , Waseem Nadaf
Published: October 2016

We report a case of 60 year old male, who presented with acute change in mental status characterized by lethargy and decreased level of consciousness since one day. Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disorder of unknown etiology which involves multiple systems. The central nervous system is affected in only 5-15% of patients with sarcoidosis. Neurosarcoidosis is a rare disorder with variable clinical course and prognosis. Treatment consists mainly of high-dose corticosteroids, which usually have to be taken long-term.J MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 41-42
A Rare Presentation of Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Saroj Mandal , Manjunath - , Shymalendu Das , Debasrita Mandal , Souvik Kanjilal , Prakash Hazra , Manotash Panja
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 43-45
Lateral Ventricular Epidermoid with Severe Coarse Tremor and Weakness in Opposite Limbs: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Chowdhury Forhad Hossain , Haque Mohammod Raziul , Kawsar Khandkar Ali , Haque Momtazul
Published: October 2016

Intracranial epidermoid tumor is rare and intraventricular epidermoid is further rare. Occurrence of epidermoids is common in posterior carnial fossa. Fourth ventricle is relatively common site for intraventricular epidermoid. Epidermoid tumor in lateral ventricle is very rare. Such a tumor presenting with severe progressive coarse tremor and weakness in opposite side of the body probably had never been reported. The epidermoid was removed by endoscope assisted microsurgical technique. Post operatively patient recovered from tremor limbs weakness. Here we report a very rare case of lateral intraventricular epidermoid with tremor and weakness in opposite limbs as well as surgical techniques with short review of related literatures.J MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 46-50
Visceral Leishmaniasis Turning into Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Mukerrama Shegufta Mishket , Kabir Ahmedul , Deb Sudip Ranjan , Dhruba Avishek Sarker , Hasan Pratyay , Hossain Anwar , Hossain Mahbub
Published: October 2016

Kala-azar and chronic liver disease are conditions frequently seen in our country. In some instances, when features of both diseases co-exist, it may pose as a diagnostic dilemma. We intend to report a case here, where presence of such features led to much confusion.J MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 51-54
Tree-in-Bud Sign
Authors: Ghoshal Bhaswati , Das Sibes K , Das Anirban , Basuthakur Sumitra
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 55-56
A Middle Aged Man Presented with Recurrent Hypokalaemia and Basal Ganglia Calcification
Authors: Das Aparna , Sultana Rabab , Kahhar MA
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE January 2016; 17 (1) : 57-58
Laboratory Investigation: Are They Always Useful?
Authors: Karim Md Enamul
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 59
Cardiovascular changes in Smokeless Tobacco Users in a Tertiary Level Hospital
Authors: Habib Nasrin , Rashid Mamunur , Alam Tanbira , Rahman SM Niazur , Shirin Lubna
Published: October 2016

Background: Tobacco has close association with cardiovascular parameters such as hypertension and pulse rate. Tobacco can be consumed as cigarette and also as smokeless tobacco. However, the relationship between smokeless tobacco uses on blood pressure remains unknown, especially in tertiary level hospitals.Objective: smokeless tobacco use might have influence on cardiovascular parameters, for instance pulse rate and blood pressure.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess cardiovascular changes in among adult male smokeless tobacco (ST) users. For this purpose, 30 male respondents were selected. The participants were selected from medicine out patient department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Pulse rate and blood pressure was measured and ST use behaviour was assessed using self-reports. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS17.Results: In this study, the mean (±SD) of pulse rate was 84.07±11.011beat/min. The mean (SD) of systolic blood pressure was 154.50 (SD26.79) mm of and the mean (SD) of diastolic blood pressure was 96.67(SD10.93) mm of Hg in smokeless tobacco users.Conclusion: Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were higher in smokeless tobacco users in the tertiary level hospital. However, mean pulse rate was within the normal range.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 61-65
Comparative Evaluation of Ultrasonography and Computed Tomography in Pancreatic Lesions
Authors: Gupta Samita , Mittal Amit , Arion Raj Kumar , Singal Rikki
Published: October 2016

Background: Aims and Objectives - 1) to do a comparative evaluation of ultrasonography and computed tomography in pancreatic lesions and assess their role as a useful diagnostic tool. 2) To correlate the USG and CT findings with fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC)/ histopathological findings/ laboratory tests / therapeutic follow up wherever performed,Material and Methods: The present study was carried out in the Department of Radio-diagnosis, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala. Thirty patients presenting with signs and symptoms of suspected pancreatic lesions referred from various wards and outpatient departments were included in the study.Results: On USG, inflammatory lesions were diagnosed in 15 cases (50%), and on CT scan, the diagnosis was made in 18 patients (60%). Combining the USG & CT findings of inflammatory lesions, the provisional radiological diagnosis of focal pancreatitis was made in 1 case but it was proven to be adenocarcinoma on FNAC. Provisional diagnosis of adenocarcinoma was made in 8 cases, lymphoma in 2 cases, macrocystic adenoma in 1 case and cystadenocarcinoma in 1 case on both USG and CT scan. However on FNAC, adenocarcinoma was proved in 10 patients, lymphoma was found in one case. Thus the provisional radiological diagnosis was correct in 28 patients (93.7%).Conclusion: Sonography detected pancreatic pathology in 27 cases (90%) but CT scan detected pancreatic lesions in all the 30 patients (100%). Present study had been undertaken to do a comparative evaluation of ultrasonography and computed tomography in pancreatic lesions and correlated the findings with fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) / HPE / laboratory tests / therapeutic follow up wherever performed. A need thus exists for multiple studies to produce significant in  road towards the appropriate imaging diagnosis of pancreatic pathologies as despite the rapid advances in imaging techniques, the overall impact of these modalities on the management and outcome of patients is still debatableJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 66-78
Identification of Rh alloantibody in Thalassaemia Patients
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Rahman Atiar , Easmin Fatema , Hoque Md Mazharul , Islam Kashfia , Shormin Sonia , Biswas Jolly
Published: October 2016

Summary: Thalassaemiais a congenital hemolytic disorder caused by partial or complete deficiency of ? or ? globin chain synthesis. The disease is treated by lifelong red cell transfusion. So they are at high risk of developing allo-antibodies, resulting difficult to obtain compatible blood, results in, haemolysis & occasionally life threatening events.Objectives: To find out the frequency of Rhesus alloantibodies among the thalassaemic patients.Methods: This cross sectional study was done in the department of transfusion medicine in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from 01-07-2010 to 03-07-2011. Sample size was 100 and the data was collected by face to face interview. Purposive sampling method was applied using inclusion & exclusion criteria. Statically analysis of the result was obtained by using window based computer software devised with Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS-15) (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL, USA).Result: In the present study all respondent were Rh D-positive. Out of 100 respondents 2 (2.0%) had positive direct Coombsand 6 (6.0%) had positive indirect Coomds test. Out of 6 respondent with Rhesus all-antibody, 4 (66.7%) had anti E antibody, 1(16.7%) had anti c antibody and 1 (16.7%) had non specific antibody.Conclusion: In this study among the 100 respondents of thalassaemic patients who receive regular blood transfusion 6 (6.0%) had developed rhesus allo-antibody among with the most common was Anti E antibody 4 (66.7%). Such information may enable understanding and prevention of this serious and common complication.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 79-83
Knowledge of the Patients Family Member about Risk Factors and Complications of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Parvin Rehana , Hossain Kazi Jahangir , Zahur Tamanna , Karim Md Rizwanul , Islam ANM Shamsul , Riaz Baizid Khoorshid
Published: October 2016

Objective: To assess knowledge about risk factors and complication of coronary heart disease (CHD).Method: It was a cross-sectional type of study and research participants were one of the family members of the patient suffering from coronary heart disease. The sample population and unit of sample were households. A total of 147 participants were selected from Inpatient Department of the National Institute of Cardio-Vascular Disease, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka from January 2013 to July 2013 following purposive method of sampling on the basis of defined selection criteria. The research instrument was a pre-tested face-to-face interviewer questionnaire. Knowledge level of the respondents was assessed using Likert type of scale incorporate in the questionnaire.Results: Most of the research participants (95.2%, n=140) were educated and only 4.8% (n=07) found illiterate. In profession, 29.9% (n=44) of the respondents were housewife, 36.1% (n=53) service holder, 22.4% (n=24) businessmen and 11.6% (n=17) students. Their average monthly income was Tk. 9149±108 and their family income was Tk. 3448±7 in average. The mean age of the respondents was 33.1±6.8 years of which 76.9% (n=113) married and rest of them (23.1%, n=34) unmarried. Among the respondents, 50.3(n=74) were male and 49.7% (n=73) female respectively. The level of knowledge of the respondents about risk factors and complication of coronary heart disease on the basis of gender, education and occupation was assessed. Of them, 75.5% (n=111) had poor knowledge about risk factors and complication of coronary heart disease, 24.5% (n=36) satisfactory knowledge and none of them had good knowledge about it which was significantly associated with the level of education, occupational and monthly income status of the respondents.Conclusion: An individual can modify or avoid many risk factors to prevent CHD or minimize the complication of CHD except age and genetic factors. However, need based health education and behavioral change intervention programs among the risk populations (target populations) and to ensure easy access in public healthcare facilities may be the most important applicable ways to control and/or prevention of CHD in Bangladesh.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 84-90
Microorganisms Profile and their Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern Isolated from the Lower Respiratory Tract of Mechanically Ventilated Patients in the Intensive Care Unit of A Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka
Authors: Jamil Sarker Mohammad Tauhid , Faruq Mohammad Omar , Saleheen Shafiqus , Biswas Prodip Kumar , Hossain Mohammed Shahadat , Hossain Syed Zakir , Arifuzzaman Mohammad , Basu Bimal Kumar , Kabir Anwarul , Alam Ferdous , Tulsan Suresh Kumar
Published: October 2016

Objective: Aim of the study was to know the microorganisms profile and determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of the LRT isolates from mechanically ventilated (MV) patients admitted to the ICU. This prospective observational study was done in Department of Critical Care Medicine (ICU) of BIRDEM General Hospital Dhaka from July, 2011 to December, 2011.Methods: Blind Tracheal Aspirate or Broncho Alveolar Lavage or both from 110 consecutive patients (total 130 samples) admitted to the ICU requiring MV were cultured, identified, and antibiotic sensitivity was performed by standard methods.Results: A total of 130 samples were analyzed. Growth was obtained in 93.8% of the samples yielding 143 organisms. Many (21 samples) yielded more than one organism. The major organism isolated were Acinetobacter sp. (54.5%), Pseudomonas sp.(14.7%), Klebsiella sp. (7.7%).Candida sp. (7.0%), Staphylococcus aureus(7.0%), Escherichia coli (4.9%).Proteus and Flavobacterium accounted for 4.2% of the isolates. All the isolates were highly resistant (>90%) to cephalosporins and >70% to fluoroquinolones. The frequency of third generation cephalosporin resistant E. coli, Klebsiellaand imipenem resistant Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter were>90%. Acinetobacter was remarkably resistant to most antibiotics including imipenem (>90% resistant) and Piperacillin+Tazobactum (>85% resistant), but most of the members of the Enterobacteriacae group and Acinetobacter showed maximum sensitivity to colistin (80%-100%).Conclusion: Nonfermenters Gram Negative Bacilli (GNB)-Acinetobacter sp. & Pseudomonas sp. are the most common etiological agents of LRT infections in ICU. There is an alarmingly high rate of resistance to cephalosporin and ²â-lactamase inhibitor group of drugs. Colistin was found to be the most sensitive drug against all GNB.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 91-94
Study On Stroke In Young Patient Due To Cardiac Disease in Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka City
Authors: Saha Sanjoy Kumar , Biswas Prodip Kumar , Mukta Meherunessa , Hossain Mohammed Shahadat , Basu Mimal Kumar , Rahman Fahreen , Alam Ferdous , Kabir Anwarul
Published: October 2016

Objectives: Study of the risk factors associated with stoke due to cardiac disease in age group between 18 to 45 years of age,evaluate the risk factor of hospitalized stroke patients & to search for cardiac disease associated with stroke also appropriate preventive measure applicable for our country.Materials & Methods: Non randomized prospective observational study was carried out in the department of Neurology, Medicine & Cardiology unit of Dhaka Medical College Hospital between the periods of July 2009 to December 2009. Fifty (50) consecutive indoor patients more than 18 years of both sex admitted with suspicion of stroke. Diagnosis of stroke will be made from details clinical history clinical examination and confirmed by CT scan or MRI.Result: Fifty patients were randomly chosen for this study, of which 26 (52%) patients were male, 24 (48%) patients were female & male: female ratio was 1.08:1. Highest incidence of stroke was in between 3rd & 4th decade. The incidence of ischemic stroke 46 (92%) & hemorrhagic stroke 4(8%).Cardio embolism is the major (92%) risk factor for ischemic stroke. Among the cardiac risk factors, valvular disease (64%), MI (16%), &IHD (10%), Atrial fibrillation 8%, Patent foramen ovale 2%.Among the patients 33.33% of women with cerebral infarction were using OCP. Majority of the patients in this study were sedentary worker (45%). Among the stroke patients 8% & 10% had previous H/O stroke & TIA respectively.Conclusion: In this study a number of modifiable risk factors were identified, of which valvular heart disease & HTN are important risk factor next are DM & IHD smoking. Most of the valvular heart diseases are rheumatic in origin, which can be prevented through primary & secondary prevention of rheumatic fever.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 95-99
Recent Advancement on Current Trend in The Management of Endocrine Emergency in Critically Ill Patient
Authors: Ferdous HS , Afsana Faria , Qureshi Nazmulkabir , Rouf Rushda SB , Parvez AA , Mir AS
Published: October 2016

Endocrine emergencies represent a group of potentially life-threatening conditions that are frequently overlooked, resulting in delays in both diagnosis and treatment, factors that further contribute to their already high associated mortality rates. Although endocrine emergencies are often encountered in patients with a known endocrinopathy, the emergency may be the initial presentation in previously undiagnosed individuals. If these endocrine disorders are not rapidly identified or if specific treatment is delayed, significant complications or even death may occur. Careful evaluation of clinical history and a high degree of suspicion are the corner stone to diagnose such problems. Aggressive management of the patient is equally important as the complications are devastating and can prove highly fatal. The present article is an attempt to review some of the common endocrine emergencies in intensive care unit and the challenges associated with their diagnosis and management.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 100-108
The High You Fly, the Drier you are: Tips for the Frequent and Long Haul Flyers
Authors: Rahman SM Niazur
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 109-110
Coronary Artery Aneurysm - Two Case Reports
Authors: Saroj Mandal , Manjunath - , Shymalendu Das , Debasrita Mandal , Souvik Kanjilal , Prakash Hazra , Manotash Panja
Published: October 2016

Coronary aneurysms are defined as a localized dilatation that exceeds 1.5 times the diameter of the adjacent segment of artery. Aneurysms can be saccular (transverse larger than the longitudinal axis) or fusiform (longitudinal at least twice the transverse axis). These should be distinguished from coronary artery ectasia in which there is diffuse dilatation involving greater than 50% of the coronary arteryJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 111-114
Impacted Intra Sphenoid Foreign Body in an Adult: A Rare Event and a Lucky Survivor
Authors: Patro Sourabha Kumar , Verma Roshan , Panda Naresh K
Published: October 2016

Nasal foreign bodies are rare events occurring mostly in children. However they can be seen in adults as a result of trauma resulting from road traffic accidents and bullet injuries. However these foreign bodies, if associated with high velocity, can cause greater harm at skull base by casing injury to vital structures. Hence safe planning and removal is warranted. We present a case of a 48 year old female with an impacted metallic foreign body in the sphenoid. Endoscopic removal of the foreign body was was done.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 115-117
The Plane Headache: A Frequent but Little Known Entity
Authors: Eduardo Esteban Zubero , Ángel Mauri-Llerdá José
Published: October 2016

Airplane headache is a newly diagnosed pathology and can be relatively common given current technologies. In this work we explain the case of a 34 year old woman and a revision of symptoms (hemicranial headache landing and / or takeoff of the plane) and treatments (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) of this pathology.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 118-119
Vertebral Compression Fractures as a Presenting Feature of AcuteLymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Das Aparna , Nobi Farnaz , Banik Gobinda , Kahhar Md Azizul
Published: October 2016

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is one of the most common malignancies in children and adolescent accounting for 30% of all the cancers. We report an interesting case of Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia(ALL) with an unusual presentation.This 15year- old girl came with a progressive low back pain for three months following a history of fall for 5 month ago with intact consciousness. The physical examination showed gibbus over lumbar spine with tenderness. Images showed generalized osteopenia with multiple vertebral body collapse.Complete blood count revealed pancytopenia with raised ESRwithout any blast cell. Bone marrow aspirate was suggestive of ALL.Young ALL patients usually present with symptoms due to cytopenias, fever and bone pains. Although asymptomatic skeletal involvement may be present in patients with ALL, rarely patients present with pathological fractures. Therefore a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose such case.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 120-121
Seropositive Neuromyelitis Optica (Devics Disease): A Rare Case Report
Authors: Rahaman Md Golam Ur , Haque Azizul , Adhikary Shuvra , Tabassum Chowdhury Tamanna , Kabir Ahmedul , Deb Sudip Ranjan
Published: October 2016

Neuromyelitis optica or Devics disease is a rare inflammatory demyelinating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system which affects the spinal cord and optic nerves and usually associated with increased disability and morbidity. The purpose of this case report is to present this rare disease and focus on diagnostic criteria. NMO is often misdiagnosed as Multiple Sclerosis. The discovery of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) immunoglobulin G (IgG), directed against aquaporin-4 (AQP4), has dramatically changed the clinical definition of NMO and is important in the diagnostic criteria of this disease. Also longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions (3 or more spinal segments) are characteristic of NMO. Here we report a case of a 14 year old girl presented with weakness of all four limbs with left sided complete blindness. NMO was diagnosed because of characteristic MRI finding and positive Aquaporin 4 IgG positive.J MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 122-124
A Young Girl with Tuberous Sclerosis Presenting with Recurrent Episodes of Convulsion & Right Sided Hemiparesis
Authors: Sarker Partha Sarathi , Akhter Sarmin , Rahman Md Saidur , Chowdhury Md Monjurul Kader , Biswas Palash Kumar , Azad Khan Abul kalam
Published: October 2016

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is a neurocutaneous syndrome manifested by involvement of multiple system including CNS, kidney, skin, heart, lungs & eye. It is usually characterized by triad of skin lesions (96%), seizures (90%) & mental retardation (70%). Most common lesions associated with TSC are angiofibroma of face, ashleaf macules, shagreen patches, subependymal nodules, cortical tubers, mental retardation &angiomyolipoma of kidney. Here we report a case of a 14 years old girl who presented with recurrent episodes of convulsion, mental retardation & progressive weakness of right side of body. We investigated the patient to find out the etiology of her illness. After cranial imaging & other necessary investigations several major & minor criteria were established, which helped us to reach the final diagnosisJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 125-129
Warrior in the wind pipe: Round worm in airway causing difficult endo-tracheal intubation
Authors: Fernandes Kavina , George Peter , Venkatesha Bannur M
Published: October 2016

Abstract not availableJ MEDICINE July 2016; 17 (2) : 130
X-ray Diffraction Evidence for Low Force Actin-Attached and Rigor-Like Cross-Bridges in the Contractile Cycle
Authors: Eakins Felicity , Pinali Christian , Gleeson Anthony , Knupp Carlo , Squire John
Published: October 2016

Defining the structural changes involved in the myosin cross-bridge cycle on actin in active muscle by X-ray diffraction will involve recording of the whole two dimensional (2D) X-ray diffraction pattern from active muscle in a time-resolved manner. Bony fish muscle is the most highly ordered vertebrate striated muscle to study. With partial sarcomere length (SL) control we show that changes in the fish muscle equatorial A-band (10) and (11) reflections, along with (10)/(11) intensity ratio and the tension, are much more rapid than without such control. Times to 50% change with SL control were 19.5 (±2.0) ms, 17.0 (±1.1) ms, 13.9 (±0.4) ms and 22.5 (±0.8) ms, respectively, compared to 25.0 (±3.4) ms, 20.5 (±2.6) ms, 15.4 (±0.6) ms and 33.8 (±0.6) ms without control. The (11) intensity and the (10)/(11) intensity ratio both still change ahead of tension, supporting the likelihood of the presence of a head population close to or on actin, but producing little or no force, in the early stages of the contractile cycle. Higher order equatorials (e.g., (30), (31), and (32)), more sensitive to crossbridge conformation and distribution, also change very rapidly and overshoot their tension plateau values by a factor of around two, well before the tension plateau has been reached, once again indicating an early low-force cross-bridge state in the contractile cycle. Modelling of these intensity changes suggests the presence of probably two different actin-attached myosin head structural states (mainly low-force attached and rigor-like). No more than two main attached structural states are necessary and sufficient to explain the observations. We find that 48% of the heads are off actin giving a resting diffraction pattern, 20% of heads are in the weak binding conformation and 32% of the heads are in the strong (rigor-like) state. The strong states account for 96% of the tension at the tetanus plateau.
Crash Frequency Analysis Using Hurdle Models with Random Effects Considering Short-Term Panel Data
Authors: Chen Feng , Ma Xiaoxiang , Chen Suren , Yang Lin
Published: October 2016

Random effect panel data hurdle models are established to research the daily crash frequency on a mountainous section of highway I-70 in Colorado. Road Weather Information System (RWIS) real-time traffic and weather and road surface conditions are merged into the models incorporating road characteristics. The random effect hurdle negative binomial (REHNB) model is developed to study the daily crash frequency along with three other competing models. The proposed model considers the serial correlation of observations, the unbalanced panel-data structure, and dominating zeroes. Based on several statistical tests, the REHNB model is identified as the most appropriate one among four candidate models for a typical mountainous highway. The results show that: (1) the presence of over-dispersion in the short-term crash frequency data is due to both excess zeros and unobserved heterogeneity in the crash data; and (2) the REHNB model is suitable for this type of data. Moreover, time-varying variables including weather conditions, road surface conditions and traffic conditions are found to play importation roles in crash frequency. Besides the methodological advancements, the proposed technology bears great potential for engineering applications to develop short-term crash frequency models by utilizing detailed data from field monitoring data such as RWIS, which is becoming more accessible around the world.
Cytotoxicity of Odorous Compounds from Poultry Manure
Authors: Nowak Adriana , Matusiak Katarzyna , Borowski Sebastian , Bakuła Tadeusz , Opaliński Sebastian , Kołacz Roman , Gutarowska Beata
Published: October 2016

Long-term exposure and inhalation of odorous compounds from poultry manure can be harmful to farm workers and the surrounding residents as well as animals. The aim of the present study was to determine the cytotoxicity and IC50 values of common odorous compounds such as ammonium, dimethylamine, trimethylamine, butyric acid, phenol, and indole in the chick liver hepatocellular carcinoma cell line LMH (Leghorn Male Hepatoma), in vitro, using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and PrestoBlue cytotoxicity assays. The cells were microscopically examined for any morphological changes post treatment. Dimethylamine exhibited the strongest cytotoxic effect on LMH cells with an IC50 value of 0.06% and 0.04% after an exposure of 24 h and 48 h, respectively. Both ammonium and trimethylamine had comparable cytotoxicity and their IC50 values were 0.08% and 0.04% after 24 h and 48 h, respectively. Of note, indole had the lowest cytotoxicity as the majority of cells were viable even after 72 h exposure. Thus, the IC50 for indole was not calculated. Results achieved from both MTT and PrestoBlue assays were comparable. Moreover, the morphological changes induced by the tested odours in LMH cells resulted in monolayer destruction, cytoplasm vacuolisation, chromatin condensation, and changes in nucleus and cell shape. Our study showed harmful effects of odorous compounds in chick tissues.
Spatiotemporal Variation of Precipitation Regime in China from 1961 to 2014 from the Standardized Precipitation Index
Authors: Yuan Xuefeng , Jian Jinshi , Jiang Gang
Published: October 2016

Prediction of drought and flood events can be difficult, but the standardized precipitation index (SPI) calculated from monthly data may be a useful tool for predicting future dryness/wetness events in China. The rainy season SPI was calculated from monthly precipitation data from 3804 meteorological stations in China. The spatiotemporal variation, periodic change, and trend in rainy season SPI from 1961 to 2014 in eight regions were investigated. The results indicate that the rainy season SPI is valuable for assessing dryness/wetness spatial and temporal variations. The SPI time series in the northwest and southwest show increasing trends, while northeast China, south China, and Taiwan show more than one upward/downward trend during the study period, and the SPI time series in central, east, and north China show no change in trend. South China has an approximately 10-year periodic oscillation, while the other regions show an approximately 16-year periodic oscillation. The results of this study imply that the SPI can be used to explore historical drought/flood spatiotemporal variations, as well as to predict future wetness/dryness variations.
miR-92a-3p Exerts Various Effects in Glioma and Glioma Stem-Like Cells Specifically Targeting CDH1/β-Catenin and Notch-1/Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Song Hang , Zhang Yao , Liu Na , Zhao Sheng , Kong Yan , Yuan Liudi
Published: October 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in the regulation of tumor progression and stemness of cancer stem-like cells. Recently, miR-92a-3p was reported to be up-regulated in human glioma samples. Nevertheless, the precise role of miR-92a-3p in glioma cells and glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) has not been fully elucidated. It is necessary to clarify the function of miR-92a-3p in glioma and GSCs to develop novel therapeutic approaches for glioma patients. In the present study, we applied methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) assay and Transwell assay to measure the proliferation rate and metastatic potential of glioma cells. Meanwhile, the self-renewal ability of GSCs was detected by tumor sphere formation assay. The results revealed that down-regulation of miR-92a-3p suppressed the glioma cell malignancy in vitro. Moreover, knockdown of miR-92a-3p led to a reduction of tumorgenesis in vivo. Interestingly, we also observed that up-regulation of miR-92a-3p could inhibit the stemness of GSCs. Subsequent mechanistic investigation indicated that cadherin 1 (CDH1)/β-catenin signaling and Notch-1/Akt signaling were the downstream pathways of miR-92a-3p in glioma cells and GSCs, respectively. These results suggest that miR-92a-3p plays different roles in glioma cells and GSCs through regulating different signaling pathways.
Nanoindentation Characterization of a Ternary Clay-Based Composite Used in Ancient Chinese Construction
Authors: Hou Dongwei , Zhang Guoping , Pant Rohit , Shen Jack , Liu Mingming , Luo Hao
Published: October 2016

Ternary clay-based composite material (TCC), composed of lime, clay and sand, and usually modified with sticky rice and other organic compounds as additives, was widely used historically in Chinese construction and buildings due to its high mechanical performance. In this study, to gain an insight into the micromechanical mechanism of this cementitious material, the nanomechanical properties and volume fraction of mechanically different phases of the binder matrix are derived from the analysis of grid nanoindentation tests. Results show that there are five distinct mechanical phases, where the calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and geopolymer present in the binder matrix are almost identical to those produced in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and alkali-activated fly-ash geopolymer materials in nano-mechanical performance. The nano-mechanical behavior of calcite produced by the carbonation of lime in this binder is close to the calcite porous outer part of some sea urchin shells. Compared to OPC, the C-S-H contained in the TCC has a relatively lower ratio of indentation modulus to indentation hardness, implying a relatively lower resistance to material fracture. However, the geopolymer and calcite, at nearly the same volume content as the C-S-H, help to enhance the strength and durability of the TCC by their higher energy resistance capacity or higher strength compared to the C-S-H. Rediscovering of TCC offers a potential way to improve modern concrete’s strength and durability through synergy of multi-binders and the addition of organic materials if TCC can be advanced in terms of its workability and hardening rate.
Evaluation of Subsequent Heat Treatment Routes for Near-β Forged TA15 Ti-Alloy
Authors: Sun Zhichao , Wu Huili , Yang He
Published: October 2016

TA15 Ti-alloy is widely used to form key load-bearing components in the aerospace field, where excellent service performance is needed. Near-β forging technology provides an attractive way to form these complicated Ti-alloy components but subsequent heat treatment has a great impact on the final microstructure and mechanical properties. Therefore evaluation and determination of the heat treatment route is of particular significance. In this paper, for the near-β forged TA15 alloy, the formation and evolution of microstructures under different subsequent heat treatment routes (annealing, solution and aging, toughening and strengthening) were studied and the cooling mode after forging was also considered. Then, the type and characteristics of the obtained microstructures were discussed through quantitative metallographic analysis. The corresponding mechanical properties (tensile, impact toughness, and fracture toughness) and effects of microstructural characteristics were investigated. Finally, for a required microstructure and performance a reasonable heat treatment route was recommended. The work is of importance for the application and development of near-β forging technology.
The Role of the Bainitic Packet in Control of Impact Toughness in a Simulated CGHAZ of X90 Pipeline Steel
Authors: Guo Bin , Fan Lei , Wang Qian , Fu Zhibin , Wang Qingfeng , Zhang Fucheng
Published: October 2016

X90 pipeline steel was processed with the simulated coarse grain heat affect zone (CGHAZ) thermal cycle with heat input varying from 30 kJ/cm to 60 kJ/cm, the microstructures were investigated by means of optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscope (TEM), and the impact properties were evaluated from the welding thermal cycle treated samples. The results indicate that the microstructure is primarily composed of lath bainite. When decreasing the heat input, both bainite packet and block are significantly refined, and the toughness has an increased tendency due to the grain refinement. The fracture surfaces all present cleavage fracture for the samples with different heat inputs. Moreover, the average cleavage facet size for the CGHAZ is nearly equal to the average bainite packet size, and the bainitic packet boundary can strongly impede the crack propagation, indicating that the bainitic packet is the most effective unit in control of impact toughness in the simulated CGHAZ of X90 pipeline steel.
Comparison of Ultrasonic Welding and Thermal Bonding for the Integration of Thin Film Metal Electrodes in Injection Molded Polymeric Lab-on-Chip Systems for Electrochemistry
Authors: Matteucci Marco , Heiskanen Arto , Zór Kinga , Emnéus Jenny , Taboryski Rafael
Published: October 2016

We compare ultrasonic welding (UW) and thermal bonding (TB) for the integration of embedded thin-film gold electrodes for electrochemical applications in injection molded (IM) microfluidic chips. The UW bonded chips showed a significantly superior electrochemical performance compared to the ones obtained using TB. Parameters such as metal thickness of electrodes, depth of electrode embedding, delivered power, and height of energy directors (for UW), as well as pressure and temperature (for TB), were systematically studied to evaluate the two bonding methods and requirements for optimal electrochemical performance. The presented technology is intended for easy and effective integration of polymeric Lab-on-Chip systems to encourage their use in research, commercialization and education.
A Time-and-Motion Approach to Micro-Costing of High-Throughput Genomic Assays
Authors: Costa S. , Regier D.A. , Meissner B. , Cromwell I. , Ben-Neriah S. , Chavez E. , Hung S. , Steidl C. , Scott D.W. , Marra M.A. , Peacock S.J. , Connors J.M.
Published: October 2016

Background: Genomic technologies are increasingly used to guide clinical decision-making in cancer control. Economic evidence about the cost-effectiveness of genomic technologies is limited, in part because of a lack of published comprehensive cost estimates. In the present micro-costing study, we used a time-and-motion approach to derive cost estimates for 3 genomic assays and processes—digital gene expression profiling (GEP), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and targeted capture sequencing, including bioinformatics analysis—in the context of lymphoma patient management. Methods: The setting for the study was the Department of Lymphoid Cancer Research laboratory at the BC Cancer Agency in Vancouver, British Columbia. Mean per-case hands-on time and resource measurements were determined from a series of direct observations of each assay. Per-case cost estimates were calculated using a bottom-up costing approach, with labour, capital and equipment, supplies and reagents, and overhead costs included. Results: The most labour-intensive assay was found to be FISH at 258.2 minutes per case, followed by targeted capture sequencing (124.1 minutes per case) and digital GEP (14.9 minutes per case). Based on a historical case throughput of 180 cases annually, the mean per-case cost (2014 Canadian dollars) was estimated to be $1,029.16 for targeted capture sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, $596.60 for FISH, and $898.35 for digital GEP with an 807-gene code set. Conclusions: With the growing emphasis on personalized approaches to cancer management, the need for economic evaluations of high-throughput genomic assays is increasing. Through economic modelling and budget-impact analyses, the cost estimates presented here can be used to inform priority-setting decisions about the implementation of such assays in clinical practice.
Predictors of Adjuvant Treatment for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma at the Population Level
Authors: Kagedan D.J. , Dixon M.E. , Raju R.S. , Li Q. , Elmi M. , Shin E. , Liu N. , El-Sedfy A. , Paszat L. , Kiss A. , Earle C.C. , Mittmann N. , Coburn N.G.
Published: October 2016

Background: In the present study, we aimed to describe, at the population level, patterns of adjuvant treatment use after curative-intent resection for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PCC) and to identify independent predictors of adjuvant treatment use. Methods: In this observational cohort study, patients undergoing PCC resection in the province of Ontario (population 13 million) during 2005–2010 were identified using the provincial cancer registry and were linked to administrative databases that include all treatments received and outcomes experienced in the province. Patients were defined as having received chemotherapy (CTX), chemoradiation (CRT), or observation (OBS). Clinicopathologic factors associated with the use of CTX, CRT, or OBS were identified by chi-square test. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of adjuvant treatment versus OBS, and CTX versus CRT. Results: Of the 397 patients included, 75.3% received adjuvant treatment (27.2% CRT, 48.1% CTX) and 24.7% received obs. Within a single-payer health care system with universal coverage of costs for CTX and CRT, substantial variation by geographic region was observed. Although the likelihood of receiving adjuvant treatment increased from 2005 to 2010 (p = 0.002), multivariate analysis revealed widespread variation between the treating hospitals (p = 0.001), and even between high-volume hepatopancreatobiliary hospitals (p = 0.0006). Younger age, positive lymph nodes, and positive surgical resection margins predicted an increased likelihood of receiving adjuvant treatment. Among patients receiving adjuvant treatment, positive margins and a low comorbidity burden were associated with CRT compared with CTX. Conclusions: Interinstitutional medical practice variation contributes significantly to differential patterns in the rate of adjuvant treatment for PCC. Whether such variation is warranted or unwarranted requires further investigation.
Book review: Balanced Ethics Review: A Guide for Institutional Review Board Members
Authors: Christie T.
Published: October 2016

Balanced Ethics Review is intended to be a guide for members of Institutional Review Boards[...]
Elongated and substituted triazine-based tricarboxylic acid linkers for MOFs
Authors: Klinkebiel Arne , Beyer Ole , Malawko Barbara , Lüning Ulrich
Published: October 2016

New triazine-based tricarboxylic acid linkers were prepared as elongated relatives of triazinetribenzoic acid (TATB). Additionally, functional groups (NO2, NH2, OMe, OH) were introduced for potential post-synthetic modification (PSM) of MOFs. Functionalized tris(4-bromoaryl)triazine “cores” (3a,3b) were obtained by unsymmetric trimerization mixing one equivalent of an acid chloride (OMe or NO2 substituted) with two equivalents of an unsubstituted nitrile. Triple Suzuki coupling of the cores 3 with suitable phenyl- and biphenylboronic acid derivatives provided elongated tricarboxylic acid linkers as carboxylic acids 17 and 20 or their esters 16 and 19. Reduction of the nitro group and cleavage of the methoxy group gave the respective amino and hydroxy-substituted triazine linkers.
THE MODERATING EFFECTS OF SLACK ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AMBIDEXTROUS STRATEGY AND PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM HIGH-TECH FIRMS IN CHINA
Authors: LUO Biao , LUO Changyue , GE Jiajia , ZHANG Dongli
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study is to examine the impacts of ambidexterity of exploration/exploitation on long-term performance and the moderating effects of slack resources. The methodology adopted is panel data analysis of a sample dataset of 125 high technology firms in China. The finding of this study shows that a moderating role of organizational slack between ambidexterity and long-term performance is strongly supported. The research and practical implications of this paper are: (1) Exploration and exploitation can be mutually enhancing instead of being fundamentally contradictory; (2) Slack resources moderate the relationship between ambidexterity and performance. The originality and value of the paper is that it is one of the earliest studies that empirically examine the moderating effects of slack resources on ambidexterity-performance relationship.
SPITZER SPACE TELESCOPE MID-IR LIGHT CURVES OF NEPTUNE
Authors: Stauffer John , Marley Mark S. , Gizis John E. , Rebull Luisa , Carey Sean J. , Krick Jessica , Ingalls James G. , Lowrance Patrick , Glaccum William , Kirkpatrick J. Davy , Simon Amy A. , Wong Michael H.
Published: October 2016

We have used the Spitzer Space Telescope in 2016 February to obtain high cadence, high signal-to-noise, 17 hr duration light curves of Neptune at 3.6 and 4.5 μm. The light curve duration was chosen to correspond to the rotation period of Neptune. Both light curves are slowly varying with time, with full amplitudes of 1.1 mag at 3.6 μm and 0.6 mag at 4.5 μm. We have also extracted sparsely sampled 18 hr light curves of Neptune at W1 (3.4 μm) and W2 (4.6 μm) from the Wide-feld Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE)/NEOWISE archive at six epochs in 2010–2015. These light curves all show similar shapes and amplitudes compared to the Spitzer light curves but with considerable variation from epoch to epoch. These amplitudes are much larger than those observed with Kepler/K2 in the visible (amplitude ∼0.02 mag) or at 845 nm with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) in 2015 and at 763 nm in 2016 (amplitude ∼0.2 mag). We interpret the Spitzer and WISE light curves as arising entirely from reflected solar photons, from higher levels in Neptune’s atmosphere than for K2. Methane gas is the dominant opacity source in Neptune’s atmosphere, and methane absorption bands are present in the HST 763 and 845 nm, WISE W1, and Spitzer 3.6 μm filters.