bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comunicação e saúde nos manuais dos organismos internacionais para situações de emergência e desastre: intervenção e hegemonia
Authors: Lindenmeyer Luciana , Martins Carla Macedo
Published: April 2015

O artigo analisa o discurso dos organismos internacionais sobre comunicação em saúde na situação de ‘emergência e desastre’, a partir de dois manuais, um produzido pela Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS), outro pela Organização Panamericana de Saúde (OPAS). A análise considera a atuação destes organismos como determinada pela lógica da ‘intervenção’, que tende a apagar as desigualdades sociais produzidas pela forma societária do capital em âmbito nacional e mundial. Tal lógica se expressa, nos manuais, nos sentidos de ‘população’, ‘emergência e desastre’ e ‘comunicação’. O artigo conclui indicando que são produzidos os seguintes efeitos discursivo-ideológicos: uma desconexão entre a emergência e o desastre e a vida social; uma legitimação da desigualdade inter-nações; uma desresponsabilização do Estado nacional em relação às condições sociais de saúde desumanas; e uma perspectiva linear e instrumental da comunicação.
Intervenções Realizadas no Ambiente de Trabalho para o Uso de Drogas: Revisão Sistemática
Authors: Ferreira Maira Leon , Sartes Laisa Marcorela Andreoli
Published: April 2015

O uso abusivo de drogas no ambiente de trabalho gera consequências como absenteísmo, baixa produtividade, aumento de custos para empregados e empregadores, piora na saúde do indivíduo e acidentes de trabalho.Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão sistemática de artigos científicos sobre as intervenções realizadas no ambiente de trabalho para o uso de drogas, publicados no período de 2002 até 2012.Método: Os artigos foram pesquisados em seis bancos de dados: Medline (PUBMED), PsychINFO, Web of Science, Lilacs, PEPSIC e Scielo. Os descritores variaram de acordo com o controle de vocabulário de cada base de dados. Inicialmente foram encontrados 97 artigos que foram classificados em Descritivos; Revisões, Medições e Intervenções. A análise de conteúdo foi aplicada a dez artigos que se tratavam de intervenções realizadas no local de trabalho.Resultados: Todos os artigos da revisão sistemática tiveram resultados positivos quanto a seus objetivos de pesquisa, porém todos tiveram falhas metodológicas.Conclusão: Conclui-se que o conjunto de estudos avaliados ainda é insuficiente de evidências científicas e demandam mais estudos que busquem investigar a validade das intervenções e sua aplicabilidade no contexto de trabalho.
O papel do Estado nas políticas públicas de saúde: um panorama sobre o debate do conceito de Estado e o caso brasileiro
Authors: Pessoto Umberto Catarino , Ribeiro Eduardo Augusto Werneck , Guimarães Raul Borges
Published: April 2015

Este artigo é resultado de uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa, visando o desenvolvimento de um panorama acerca do debate ideológico sobre a concepção de Estado nas políticas de saúde. Nele, argumentamos que o papel do Estado brasileiro no desenvolvimento da política de saúde, mesmo sob a pressão do mercado globalizado, pode criar alternativas para promover e direcionar o desenvolvimento econômico e social, e que isso não significa submeter-se às restrições econômicas impostas pelo ideal liberal de mercado. Apresentamos parte de uma discussão teórica acerca da construção e presença do Estado na América Latina e, particularmente, no Brasil, tomando como referências as abordagens da tradição marxista e da liberal sobre a questão. Essa discussão permite-nos entender que o papel histórico do Estado na manutenção de políticas públicas sociais, especificamente as de saúde, é uma alternativa para que o controle público amenize a intensa mobilidade de capital promovida pela globalização econômica. Nesse sentido, o tema torna a saúde nacional uma questão importante das Ciências Sociais, por que é na historicidade da construção do sistema de saúde brasileiro, como política pública, que se pode espelhar a própria reconstrução do arcabouço institucional do Estado brasileiro, com a instauração de instâncias de negociação entre as diversas esferas de poder que fortalecem esse mesmo Estado no processo de redemocratização da sociedade brasileira.
Implicaciones del marco teórico de lo imaginario en la Psicología Social
Authors: Vicente Teresa Aracena
Published: April 2015

En el presente estudio abordaremos dos de las principales concepciones sobre los mecanismos implicados en la construcción significativa del mundo. Hablamos de la Teoría de las Representaciones Sociales (TRS), formulada desde la psicología, y del marco teórico de lo imaginario, formulado principalmente desde la antropología y la filosofía. Procederemos exponiendo, primero, la TRS y, posteriormente, los acercamientos al marco teórico de lo imaginario desde diferentes disciplinas, para señalar las aportaciones que ofrece este último a la psicología social, aportaciones éstas que complementan las de la TRS. Así, este estudio tiene como objetivos realizar un análisis teórico de la TRS y del marco teórico de lo imaginario y especificar las contribuciones e implicaciones del marco teórico de lo imaginario a la psicología social (y, más concretamente, a la psicología cultural) de modo a observar cómo el concepto de imaginario social incluye y trasciende al de representación social(RS). Consideraremos las implicaciones ontológicas, epistemológicas, metodológicas y para la salud de la utilización del marco teórico de lo imaginario en la psicología cultural. En este sentido, propondremos la adopción de dicho concepto por la psicología, considerando que el mismo es fundamental por su capacidad explicativa, comprensiva, interpretativa y crítica.
Comparative analysis between condom use clusters and risk behaviours among Portuguese university students
Authors: Gomes Alexandra , Nunes Cristina
Published: April 2015

The research on condom use has been focused on high-risk individuals, paying less attention to those who have moderate risk or safe sexual conducts. In order to design accurate interventions, potential differences among the condom use behavior groups must be considered. The goal was to assess possible differences in individuals presenting different types of risk behavior. 140 heterosexual university students answered a self-reported questionnaire about their sexual history, condom use habits, sexual self-esteem, sexual satisfaction, sexual control, attitudes towards condoms, self-efficacy to condom use, and emotions and feelings during sexual intercourse. A cluster analysis was conducted using the results about condom use and risk behaviors. Three groups with different risk levels emerged, presenting differences over sexual self-efficacy, attitudes towards condoms, socio-demographic variables, and sexual history. The results suggest the condom use inconsistency is highly associated with other risk behaviors but the contrary does not necessarily happens. Condom use consistent users also presented risk behaviors as smoking and drinking. The group differences suggest the risks were more affected by the combination of lack of skills with a negative attitude toward condoms than by contextual or personal variables. These differences sustain the need of an intervention adjusted to the individual's risk levels, since they differ on skills and beliefs that may hinder or promote the adoption of health behaviors.
Oral manifestations of HIV positive children
Authors: Gallottini Magalhães Marina , Franco Bueno Daniela , Serra Edna , Gonçalves Rhoner
Published: April 2015

Oral manifestations in HIV positive children were observed in thirty-eight HIV infected children that have received care at the Special Care Dentistry Center (SCDC) of the School of Dentistry, University of Sao Paulo. Results have shown that 52.63% of the children presented at least one oral manifestation related with HIV/AIDS. Angular cheilitis occurred in 28.94%, parotid gland bilateral enlargement, pseudomembranous candidiasis and erythematous candidiais in 18.42%, conventional gingivitis in 13.15%, herpes simplex in 5.26%, hairy leukoplakia, recurrent aphtous ulcer and condyloma acuminatum in 2.63%. Although enamel hypoplasia occurred in 23.68%, this could not be attributed specifically to HIV infection.
Shear bond strength of six restorative materials
Authors: Almuammar Majed , Schulman Allen , Salama Fouad
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine and compare the shear bond strength of a conventional glassionomer cement, a resin modified glass-ionomer, a composite resin and three compomer restorative materials. Dentin of the occlusal surfaces from sixty extracted human permanent molars were prepared for shear bond strength testing. The specimens were randomly divided into six groups of 10 each. Dentinal surfaces were treated according to the instructions of manufacturers for each material. Each restorative material was placed inside nylon cylinders 2 mm high with an internal diameter of 3 mm, which were placed perpendicular to dentin surfaces. Shear bond strengths were determined using an Universal Testing Machine at crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min in a compression mode. Conventional glass-ionomer, Ketac-Molar aplicap showed the lowest mean shear bond strength 3.77 ± 1.76 (X ± SD MPa) and the composite resin, Heliomolar showed the highest mean shear bond strength 16.54 ± 1.65 while the mean bond strength of Fuji II LC was 9.55 ± 1.06. The shear bond strengths of compomer restorative materials were 12.83 ± 1.42, 10.64 ± 1.42 and 11.19 ± 1.19 for Compoglass, Hytac and Dyract respectively. ANOVA revealed statistically significant differences in the mean shear bond strengths of all groups (P<0.001). No statistically significant difference was found between the three compomer materials (P>0.5). Ketac-Molar and composite resin showed statistically significant difference (P<0.0005). The mode of fracture varied between materials. It is concluded that the compomer restorative materials show higher shear bond strength than conventional glass-ionomer and resin modified glass-ionomer, but less than composite resin. The fracture mode is not related to the shear bond strengths values.
Amelogenesis imperfecta: enamel ultra structure and molecular studies
Authors: Gopinath V. , Al –Salihi K. , Yean Yean Chan , Chan Li Ann Melissa , Ravichandran M.
Published: April 2015

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a hereditary disorder resulting in generalized defects in the enamel.The case reported here is of a seven-year-old male child with yellow color of all his teeth.Two of his primary molars were extracted due to dental abscess with advanced root resorption. Histologically hypoplastic enamel layer, positively birefringent, generalized pitting, roughness with irregular general cracked borders were observed. Scanning electron microscope, revealed extensive irregular, disorganized rough superficial enamel layer.The enamel was irregularly decussate with filamentous prisms accompanied by small rounded formations. The morphological and histological examination of the tooth revealed that this patient has the features of AI.For genetic study blood sample were collected from the patient and PCR analysis revealed that there is no mutation in exons 1-7 of AMELX gene on the X chromosome of the patient. Hence, it is probable that the AI of this patient is not X-linked. It is more likely to be an autosomal mutation.
Design Criteria for High Power Engines Crankshafts
Authors: Baragetti S.
Published: April 2015

The reliability of any mechanical system, in which the linear displacement of a piston is converted into the
rotation of a power transmission shaft, strongly depends on the reliability of the crankshaft. The crankshaft is the critical
component and any damage occurring to the crankshaft may put the mechanical system out of order. The numerical finite
element simulation of crankshafts with multiple rods is often time consuming even if quite accurate if the aim is to
evaluate the stress-strain behavior at the notched area and verify the component. The development of a simplified
numerical model would prove effective to reduce the time needed to reach a good approximation design of the crankshaft.
The aim of this paper is to give the designer a numerical procedure that allows to determine the strain and stress state and
verify crankshafts having two or more rods.
Single-shot Multi-slice T1 Mapping at High Spatial Resolution – Inversion-Recovery FLASH with Radial Undersampling and Iterative Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Roeloffs Volkert , Merboldt K. Dietmar , Voit Dirk , Schätz Sebastian , Frahm Jens
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

To develop a method for T1 mapping at high spatial resolution and for multiple slices.

Methods:

The proposed method emerges as a single-shot inversion-recovery experiment which covers the entire spin-lattice
relaxation process by serial acquisitions of highly undersampled radial FLASH images, either in single-slice or
multi-slice mode. Serial image reconstructions are performed in time-reversed order and first involve regularized nonlinear
inversion (NLINV) to estimate optimum coil sensitivity profiles. Subsequently, the coil profiles are fixed for the calculation
of differently T1-weighted frames and the resulting linear inverse problem is solved by a conjugate gradient (CG)
technique. T1 values are obtained by pixelwise fitting with a Deichmann correction modified for multi-slice applications.

Results:

T1 accuracy was validated for a reference phantom. For human brain, T1 maps were obtained at 0.5 mm resolution
for single-slice acquisitions and at 0.75 mm resolution for up to 5 simultaneous slices (5 mm thickness). Corresponding
T1 maps of the liver were acquired at 1 mm and 1.5 mm resolution, respectively. All T1 values were in agreement
with literature data.

Conclusion:

Inversion-recovery sequences with highly undersampled radial FLASH images and NLINV/CG reconstruction
allow for fast, robust and accurate T1 mapping at high spatial resolution and for multiple slices.
The identity of Diocletians according to the De administrando imperio
Authors: Komatina Predrag
Published: April 2015

The article discusses the issue of ethnic identity of the Diocletians
referred to by the emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus in his work De
administrando imperio. Of all the tribes of the southern part of the eastern
Adriatic coast, only for them the emperor fails to point out that they
belonged to the Serbs. Based on the analysis of various segments of the
emperor?s narrative on the South Slavs, we come to the conclusion that he
considered Diocletians to be Serbs also, although he nowhere explicitly
recorded that.
The emergence of the title Velikii Kniaz’ in Rus’ and the Povest’ Vremennykh let
Authors: Raev Mikhail
Published: April 2015

This article examines the issue of when the title of Velikii Kniaz? was first
used in the light of accumulated textual analyses of the Povest? Vremennykh
Let. Section 2 presents the current state of research. Section 3 outlines the
historiographical viewpoints on the Povest? and how the time of its
composition relates to first use of the title. Particular emphasis falls on
four Byzantine-Rus? treaties mentioned in the Povest?. It is argued that the
time when first version of the PVL emerged - the 1110s - sets a terminus ante
quem on the introduction of the title of Grand Prince in Kievan Rus?. Section
4 investigates two other sources discussed in current research: a letter by
Metropolitan Nikephoros to Prince Vladimir Monomakh, and the seal of Prince
Mstislav. Section 5 offers two explanations of why the title entered
Byzantine usage and of when conditions for it became ripe in Kievan Rus?.
Historical basis of the Miracula of Saint Symeon in Stefan the First-Crowned’s life of Symeon
Authors: Komatina Ivana
Published: April 2015

The paper is devoted to the research of the so-called Catalog of Miracles in
the Life of Saint Symeon by Stefan the First-Crowned. Because the miracles
are divided in the Life into those in which Symeon-Nemanja is revealed as a
Saint, and those in which his heir Stefan the First-Crowned conquers the
enemies of the Serbian State with his help, the attention is paid on research
of their historical basis and chronological frame, as well as their religious
essence.
Whole-Exome Sequencing Reveals CLCNKB Mutations in a Case of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death
Authors: Lopez Hector U. , Haverfield Eden , Chung Wendy K.
Published: April 2015

Cases of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) leave many families devastated, especially in those without an identified cause of death. Here, we describe the case of an apparently healthy 15-day-old infant who died suddenly and unexpectedly. Through whole-exome sequencing, the infant was posthumously found to have 2 mutations in the CLCNKB gene, leading to a molecular diagnosis of Bartter syndrome type III, the likely cause of death. This case illustrates the potential utility of exome sequencing in cases of SUID to suggest a diagnosis, with important implications for families, allowing them to come to closure over the cause of death, informing their future reproductive decisions, and minimizing the risk of recurrence.
Automated Peritoneal Dialysis: An alternative to Continuous Ambulatory or a First Choice Treatment?
Authors: Dounousi Evangelia , Duni Anila , Leivaditis Konstantinos , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: April 2015

The use of the various forms of Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) has considerably increased in the past few years. This increase is driven by improved cycler design, apparent lifestyle advantages, and the increased ability to achieve adequacy and ultrafiltration targets. It is therefore reasonable to raise the question whether APD is superior to Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD). APD is considered the most suitable Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) modality for high transporters as well as for assisted PD. It has also been associated with improved compliance, lower intraperitoneal pressure and possibly lower incidence of peritonitis. On the other hand, there are concerns regarding increased cost, a more rapid decline in residual renal function, inadequate sodium removal and disturbed sleep. Besides its beneficial results in high transporters, other medical advantages of APD still remain unclear. Individual patient’s choice remains the most important indication for applying APD, which should be made available to all patients starting PD.
Kidney Complications Due to Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation-A Disorder of an Increasing Incidence?
Authors: Orlic Lidija , Mikolasevic Ivana , Pavletic-Persic Martina , Jelic Ita , Raspor-Flajsman Sanja , Racki Sanjin
Published: April 2015

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is becoming an increasingly popular treatment considering that it is the only curative option for many malignant and non-malignant diseases. Many patients treated in this way have been followed for two or three decades post-transplant and are presumed to be cured. But, on the other hand, a great proportion of these patients are experiencing long-term side effects after HSCT, including non-malignant organ or tissue dysfunction, changes in quality of life, infections and secondary malignancy. Renal complications caused by HSCT are high and are associated with the development of both acute and chronic kidney failure. So, considering the increasing numbers of HSCT survivors many years after the transplantation, chronic kidney disease due to HSCT is becoming a growing problem and represents a new population of patients who are presented to nephrologists. The three most common forms of chronic kidney disease related to HSCT are: chronic calcineurin nephrotoxicity, glomerular disease after HSCT and HSCT associated thrombotic microangiopathy.
Oral and Salivary Changes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Belazelkovska Ana , Popovska Mirjana , Spasovski Goce , Masin-Spasovska Jelka , Cekovska Svetlana , Atanasovska-Stojanovska Aneta , Mitic Kristina , Radojkova-Nikolovska Vera
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Kidney disease is associated with many abnormalities in the oral health status as well as with alterations in salivary flow and composition. The aim of this study was to evaluate and to correlate oral clinical findings, salivary flow (SF) and salivary pH values in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) not yet on hemodyalisis treatment, those undergoing hemodialysis and in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods. In a cross-sectional study 90 patients were included. The cohort was composed of three groups: 30 patients with CKD (serum creatinine values under 120 μmol/L-group 1), 30 patients with CKD on hemodialysis (group 2) and 30 kidney transplanted patients (group 3). The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals. Oral symptoms, signs and lesions: salivary volume, salivary pH and SF of stimulated and unstimulated saliva were evaluated.

Results. Among patients with CKD without dialysis treatment inverse relationship was found between uremic fetor, unpleasant taste and unstimulated SF and also between xerostomia and stimulated SF. Negative correlation between thirst and unstimulated salivary flow was found in both groups, patients with CKD on dialysis and kidney transplant group. Furthermore, in kidney-transplant patients a negative correlation was found between petechiae and SF, while in group of patients with CKD on hemodialysis the same negative correlation was registered between uremic fetor and stimulated SF.

Conclusions. Salivary flow was significantly lower in hemodialysis patients, while the highest was in the kidney-transplant recipients accompanied with improvement in the other oral clinical findings observed in our study.
Clinical profile and Outcome of Enteric Fever in hospitalized children aged 6 months to 2 years
Authors: Hyder Rumy Tabrez , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Ahmed Shafi , Islam Md Sirajul , Islam Farooqul
Published: April 2015

Background : Enteric fever is a common endemic disease in Bangladesh.1 Enteric fever caused by Salmonella typhi (typhoid fever) is a major therapeutic consideration of all prolonged illnesses with pyrexia in pediatric practices particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh.Objectives :To evaluate the clinical profile and outcome of enteric fever in hospitalized children aged 6 months to 2 years.Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in the paediatric medicine unit of Dhaka Shishu Hospital during the period of November 2003 to August 2004. Forty children (age 6 months to 2 years) with specific criteria for diagnosing enteric fever enrolled in this study. Statistical analysis were done using the SPSS. All the data were expressed in percentage, mean or standard deviation.Anova test was used as the test for significance.Results : The clinical features, laboratory data, response to treatment were studied in 40 cases of enteric fever(daignosed by prefixed criteria). Majority of the patients belonged to the age group between 9 months to 2 years. Fever was the main presenting feature in all the cases (100%).Other associated features were anorexia (95%), vomiting(85%), diarrhea (80%), abdominal distension(75%), cough (70%), pallor (70%) and lethargy (50%). Of the signs, high temperature 101OF (95%), coated tongue (92.5%), tachycardia (90%), toxic appearance (87.5%) and anemia (70%) were the commonest features while hepatomegaly was present in 37.5% of cases. Typhoid fever was the most frequent (82.5%) enteric fever and the Widal test was significantly positive in 100% of cases. Blood culture was positive in 4 cases only with S. typhi in 3 cases (75%) and S. paratyphi A in 1 case (25%) and all isolated organisms were sensitive to Ceftriaxone and Ciprofloxacin. The outcome of the study population was assessed in terms of improved, cured, failure of treatment, complications and relapse. Cure rate was high (82.5%) in the study group. In the remaining 17.5%, the patients were considered improved. No case of relapse was recorded during the follow-up period of these patients. Failure of improvement or deterioration of clinical condition after treatment was not noted in this study. Complications were minimal in the study population and none of the patients died in this study.Conclusion: Contrary to the popular belief and west-oriented teaching, typhoid is certainly common in infants and young children in countries of the Third World and younger children are more likely to present with a non-specific febrile illness which makes the diagnosis difficult and as such adequate knowledge of the clinical presentations of this age group is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(1) 2013: 301-305
Bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Yasmeen BH Nazma
Published: April 2015

Abstract not availableNorthern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 323-324
Comparative study between two empirical antibiotic regime in the management of childhood malignancy with fever
Authors: Helaly Laila , Sarker Md Zakir Hossain , Mannan MA , Hossain Md Tafazzal , Ahmed Shafi , Begum Momtaj
Published: April 2015

Objective : The present prospective randomized clinical trial was carried out to assess whether combined cefepime and amikacin as empirical antibiotic therapy was more effective than combined ceftriaxone and gentamicin in the treatment of febrile neutropenic children with malignant diseases.Material & Methods : The study was conducted in the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology unit of BSMMU over a period of 2 years. (From January 2006 to December 2007) Hospitalised pediatric cancer patients who developed febrile neutropenia following chemotherapy or radiotherapy were the study population. A total 64 cases were consecutively included in the study and were randomly assigned to either cefepime & amikacin group (Group- A) or ceftriaxone & gentamicin group (Group-B). The Group-A received cefepime 1500 mg/m2/dose infused over 15 minutes in two divided doses intravenously(IV) while amikacin was administered as thrice daily dose of 200 mg/m2/dose. Patients of Group-B received ceftriaxone 1500 mg/m2/dose in two divided doses and gentamicin 60 mg/m2/dose thrice daily IV. The therapy was continued until absolute neutrophil counts reached >1000 neutrophils/mm3. The treatment outcome was considered successful if fever resolves within 4 days and does not recur within 7 days of completion of therapy. Of the 64 patients, 13 cases were excluded from the final analysis.Results : Bacteria were isolated from culture in only 16.7% of cases Group-A and 9.5% of group-B. Patients E. coli was the most common isolate found in blood specimen (37%). Following intervention, 90% of cefepime & amikacin group and 85.6% of ceftriaxone & gentamicin group improved absolute neutrophil count to >1000/mm3 of blood. Persistence of fever after start of study drug and duration of antibiotic therapy were significantly less in the former group than those in later group (p = 0.049 and p = 0.004 respectively). Only 1 patient of group B had recurrence of infection within 7 days of treatment completion. The mean duration of hospital stay was less in the former group (7.97 ± 2.61 days) than that in the latter group (11.00 ± 3.42 days) (p = 0.06). Evaluation of final outcome shows that majority (86.6%) of cefepime & amikacin group had successful outcome, while majority of ceftriaxone & gentamicin group (81%) failed to resolve infection with continuation of fever for > 4 days.Conclusion : The study concluded that combined cefepime and amikacin is a better option for empirical treatment of fever and neutropenia in children with malignancies than combined ceftriaxone and gentamicin (p<0.001).Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 329-331
Assessment of relevance and effectiveness of community health workforce (CHW) development system in Bangladesh
Authors: Talukder Md Humayun Kabir , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Nazneen Rumana , Hossain Md Zakir , Chowdhury Ishrat Jahan
Published: April 2015

Background : Community Health Workforce (CHW) development has a rich history in South East Asian Region (SEAR). The first Community Health Unit was established in Sri Lanka in 1926 and then practiced over many of the regional countries like, Thailand, Mayanmar and India. Community Health Workers are in the fore front workforce to bring about change through community health programmes to national levels. In Bangladesh, there are also different categories of health workforce serving in the health care delivery system.Objectives : To assess relevance and effectiveness of community health workforce (CHW) development system in Bangladesh.Methods : This cross sectional study was conducted from 1st November 2010-30th April 2011 by purposive sampling technique. Study population were directors, administrators, principals, teachers of different institutes/ organizations and community health workers working in different corners of Bangladesh. Study places were different divisional towns of Bangladesh. Previously developed questionnaire & checklist were used for the collection of data from the institutes/ organizations by data collectors. These data were edited, processed and was analysed by using SPSS soft ware and a small portion by manually. No strong ethical issues were involved in this activity.Results : Study revealed that all the respondents (100%) are in favour of production of CHW in Bangladesh through formal academic institutional or pre service education (61.4%) .Most of the respondents (56.8%) viewed that there are scopes of utilisation of produced CHW in rural areas and most of the respondents (63.6%) also viewed that terminal/marginalized/underprivileged peoples of hard to reach areas at least can be served by CHW. Regarding the competency of produced CHW few of the respondents (43.2%) viewed positively. Most of the respondents (86.4%) viewed that both govt. & non govt. sectors should produce CHW with a very good coordination and co-operation. Study revealed the institutional capacities or situations about physical facilities, ongoing course, audiovisual aids, library, manpower and assessment procedure.Conclusion : Study revealed that there is strong & logical relevance present for the production of CHW in Bangladesh. So the existing Human Resource for Health (HRH) policy is to be revised & revisited as a time felt need to develop more competent CHW for Bangladesh to serve the marginalized, terminal, people of remote, rural & hard to reach areas.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 332-335
A case of intractable Dysmenorrhoea
Authors: Shati Mariam Faruqui , Begum Nasreen , Jahan Nasim
Published: April 2015

Dysmenorrhea (dysmenorrhoea or painful periods) is a medical condition of pain during menstruation that interferes with daily activities, defined by ACOG (American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists). Still, dysmenorrhea is often defined simply as menstrual pain or at least menstrual pain that is excessive. A 19yr old girl presented frequent dysmenorrhoea which was increasing in intensity and finally a lump was palpable on the left lower abdomen. She was treated surgically. A big mass size of a cricket ball was removed by laparotomy and patient was relieved from intractable dysmenorrhoea.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 351-352
Recent advances in the management of epilepsy
Authors: Islam Farooqul , Ahmed Shafi , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Begum Nasreen , Sharmin Shabnam , Hilaly Laila , Hyder Rumy Tabrez
Published: April 2015

Epilepsy is a complex disorder affecting brain function having a variety of contributing factors. The genetic predisposition plays a key role in the genesis of epilepsy. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) provide effective control in majority of patients with different seizure types. But some refractory cases and those who cannot tolerate the conventional AEDs, it is difficult to control the seizures adequately. On the basis of different mechanisms of action and considering the side effects of drugs, various newer approaches have been evolved during the recent years in the rational management of epilepsy. A brief account of these newer treatment modalities has been focused and incorporated in this review in order to enlighten the readers with the possible beneficial effect of this regimen and their limitations as well.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 353-356
Understanding Cultural Difference Management through Charles Taylor’s Philosophy: Case Studies from the Food Processing Industry
Authors: Ouellet Samuel , Facal Joseph , Hébert Louis
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we use the work of the philosopher, Charles Taylor, to investigate the role of culture on internationalization decisions. Using parameters related to key constructs such as positive liberty, social ontology, expressivism, civic republicanism and common spaces, we look at how culture influences the decisions regarding corporate international expansion. This framework was applied in a multi-interview design in four firms from the food processing industry from France and Canada. Results showed an obvious sensitivity to cultural difference and that managerial practices surrounding this issue tended to be intuitive and emergent. These practices were not crystallized in the form of a conscious and deliberate organizational strategy for dealing with cultural difference when planning foreign market entry. Our findings triggered further reflections on managerial implications such as the importance of searching more explicitly for cultural and organizational anchors when reviewing location factors.
Enhanced Load Power Sharing Accuracy in Droop-Controlled DC Microgrids with Both Mesh and Radial Configurations
Authors: Liu Yiqi , Wang Jianze , Li Ningning , Fu Yu , Ji Yanchao
Published: April 2015

The rational power sharing among different interface converters should be determined by the converter capacity. In order to guarantee that each converter operates at the ideal condition, considering the radial and mesh configuration, a modified strategy for load power sharing accuracy enhancement in droop-controlled DC microgrid is proposed in this paper. Two compensating terms which include averaging output power control and averaging DC voltage control of neighboring converters are employed. Since only the information of the neighboring converter is used, the complexity of the communication network can be reduced. The rational distribution of load power for different line resistance conditions is realized by using modified droop control that can be regarded as a distributed approach. Low bandwidth communication is used for exchanging sampled information between different converters. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method for different network configurations and line resistances under different communication delay is analyzed in detail. Simulation results derived from a DC microgrid with three converters is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink to verify the proposed approach. Experimental results from a 3 × 10 kW prototype also show the performance of the proposed modified droop control scheme.
Do People with Disabilities Have Difficulty Finding a Family Physician?
Authors: McColl Mary , Aiken Alice , Schaub Michael
Published: April 2015

Primary care has been ideally characterized as the medical home for all citizens, and yet recent data shows that approximately 6% do not have a family physician, and only 17.5% of family practices are open to new patients. Given acknowledged shortages of family physicians, this research asks the question: Do people with disabilities have particular difficulty finding a family physician? Health Care Connect (HCC) is a government-funded agency in Ontario Canada, designed to “help Ontarians who are without a family health care provider to find one”. Using data from HCC, supplemented by interviews with HCC staff, the study explores the average wait time for patients with disabilities to be linked with a primary care physician, and the challenges faced by agency staff in doing so. The study found that disabled registrants with the program are only slightly disadvantaged in terms of wait times to find a family physician, and success rates are ultimately comparable; however, agency staff report that there are a number of significant challenges associated with placing disabled patients.
Carotenoid Profile of Tomato Sauces: Effect of Cooking Time and Content of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Vallverdú-Queralt Anna , Regueiro Jorge , De Alvarenga José , Torrado Xavier , Lamuela-Raventos Rosa
Published: April 2015

The consumption of carotenoid-rich vegetables such as tomatoes and tomato sauces is associated with reduced risk of several chronic diseases. The predominant carotenoids in tomato products are in the (all-E) configuration, but (Z) isomers can be formed during thermal processing. The effect of cooking time (15, 30, 45 and 60 min) and the addition of extra virgin olive oil (5% and 10%) on the carotenoid extractability of tomato sauces was monitored using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) and LC-ultraviolet detection (LC-UV). The thermal treatment and the addition of extra virgin olive oil increased the levels of antioxidant activity, total carotenoids, Z-lycopene isomers, α-carotene and β-carotene. These results are of particular nutritional benefit since higher lycopene intake has been associated with a reduced risk of lethal prostate and a reduction of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Moreover, β-carotene has been reported to suppress the up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 gene expression in a dose dependent manner and to suppress UVA-induced HO-1 gene expression in cultured FEK4.
The miRNA Transcriptome Directly Reflects the Physiological and Biochemical Differences between Red, White, and Intermediate Muscle Fiber Types
Authors: Ma Jideng , Wang Hongmei , Liu Rui , Jin Long , Tang Qianzi , Wang Xun , Jiang Anan , Hu Yaodong , Li Zongwen , Zhu Li , Li Ruiqiang , Li Mingzhou , Li Xuewei
Published: April 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that can regulate their target genes at the post-transcriptional level. Skeletal muscle comprises different ﬁber types that can be broadly classified as red, intermediate, and white. Recently, a set of miRNAs was found expressed in a fiber type-specific manner in red and white fiber types. However, an in-depth analysis of the miRNA transcriptome differences between all three fiber types has not been undertaken. Herein, we collected 15 porcine skeletal muscles from different anatomical locations, which were then clearly divided into red, white, and intermediate fiber type based on the ratios of myosin heavy chain isoforms. We further illustrated that three muscles, which typically represented each muscle fiber type (i.e., red: peroneal longus (PL), intermediate: psoas major muscle (PMM), white: longissimus dorsi muscle (LDM)), have distinct metabolic patterns of mitochondrial and glycolytic enzyme levels. Furthermore, we constructed small RNA libraries for PL, PMM, and LDM using a deep sequencing approach. Results showed that the differentially expressed miRNAs were mainly enriched in PL and played a vital role in myogenesis and energy metabolism. Overall, this comprehensive analysis will contribute to a better understanding of the miRNA regulatory mechanism that achieves the phenotypic diversity of skeletal muscles.
Fabrication of Fe-Al Intermetallic Foams via Organic Compounds Assisted Sintering
Authors: Karczewski Krzysztof , Stępniowski Wojciech , Kaczor Piotr , Jóźwiak Stanisław
Published: April 2015

The influence of the addition of organic compounds, such as palmitic acid and cholesteryl myristate, on the porous structure of Fe-Al intermetallics formation has been investigated in detail in this paper. It was found that additives have a significant effect on the final porosity of the obtained sinters. Formed gaseous products from combustion play the role of the foaming agent during Fe-Al intermetallic alloy sintering. The influence of these additives is also clearly noticeable in chemical composition changes of the final products through the increase of carbon content in the porous structure. This is attributed to the thermal decomposition, namely combustion, of the organic additives.
Effect of Solids-To-Liquids, Na2SiO3-To-NaOH and Curing Temperature on the Palm Oil Boiler Ash (Si + Ca) Geopolymerisation System
Authors: Yahya Zarina , Abdullah Mohd , Hussin Kamarudin , Ismail Khairul , Razak Rafiza , Sandu Andrei
Published: April 2015

This paper investigates the effect of the solids-to-liquids (S/L) and Na2SiO3/NaOH ratios on the production of palm oil boiler ash (POBA) based geopolymer. Sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution were used as alkaline activator with a NaOH concentration of 14 M. The geopolymer samples were prepared with different S/L ratios (0.5, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, and 1.75) and Na2SiO3/NaOH ratios (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0). The main evaluation techniques in this study were compressive strength, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The results showed that the maximum compressive strength (11.9 MPa) was obtained at a S/L ratio and Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio of 1.5 and 2.5 at seven days of testing. v
Glycopolymeric Materials for Advanced Applications
Authors: Muñoz-Bonilla Alexandra , Fernández-García Marta
Published: April 2015

In recent years, glycopolymers have particularly revolutionized the world of macromolecular chemistry and materials in general. Nevertheless, it has been in this century when scientists realize that these materials present great versatility in biosensing, biorecognition, and biomedicine among other areas. This article highlights most relevant glycopolymeric materials, considering that they are only a small example of the research done in this emerging field. The examples described here are selected on the base of novelty, innovation and implementation of glycopolymeric materials. In addition, the future perspectives of this topic will be commented on.
Martensitic Transformation in Ni-Mn-Sn-Co Heusler Alloys
Authors: Deltell Alexandre , Escoda Lluisa , Saurina Joan , Suñol Joan
Published: April 2015

Thermal and structural austenite to martensite reversible transition was studied in melt spun ribbons of Ni50Mn40Sn5Co5, Ni50Mn37.5Sn7.5Co5 and Ni50Mn35Sn10Co5 (at. %) alloys. Analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns confirms that all alloys have martensitic structure at room temperature: four layered orthorhombic 4O for Ni50Mn40Sn5Co5, four layered orthorhombic 4O and seven-layered monoclinic 14M for Ni50Mn37.5Sn7.5Co5 and seven-layered monoclinic 14M for Ni50Mn35Sn5Co5. Analysis of differential scanning calorimetry scans shows that higher enthalpy and entropy changes are obtained for alloy Ni50Mn37.5Sn7.5Co5, whereas transition temperatures increases as increasing valence electron density.
Special Effect of Ionic Liquids on the Extraction of Flavonoid Glycosides from Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat by Microwave Assistance
Authors: Zhou Ying , Wu Datong , Cai Pengfei , Cheng Guifang , Huang Chaobiao , Pan Yuanjiang
Published: April 2015

A microwave-assisted extraction approach based on ionic liquids of different chain lengths was successfully applied to the extraction of ten flavonoid glycosides from the flowering heads of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. The pretreated sample was quantified by HPLC-ESI-MSn. The main components were identified as flavonoid glycosides, including three luteolin glycosides, three apigenin glycosides, three kaempferide glycosides, and one acacetin glycoside according to the characteristics of the corresponding CID mass spectrometric patterns. Eight ionic liquids from the imidazolium family with different chain lengths, namely, 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide, [Cnmim]Br, (n = 2–16) were studied as extraction medium in water. Results indicated that alkyl chain length had an irregular impact on the extraction efficiency. Moreover, the best extraction efficiency was achieved by 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide aqueous solution ([C12mim]Br). Besides the alkyl chain length of the cations, other factors influencing extraction efficiency were systematically investigated, including concentration of the IL solutions, extraction time, matrix-to-solvent ratio and irradiation power.
Proteomic Analysis of Polysaccharide-Milk Protein Interactions Induced by Chitosan
Authors: Chen Chun-Chi , Chen Shui-Tein , Hsieh Jung-Feng
Published: April 2015

The chitosan-induced coacervation of milk proteins was investigated using a proteomic approach. The addition of 0.8% chitosan to milk caused the milk proteins to coacervate after a 1 h incubation period. Approximately 86% of the milk proteins were present in the milk pellet fraction (MPF), and the protein concentration of the milk supernatant fraction (MSF) decreased from 29.4 ± 0.2 to 4.2 ± 0.6 mg/mL. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that the total intensities of serum albumin (BSA), αS-casein (αS-CN), β-casein (β-CN), κ-casein (κ-CN) and β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) in the MSF decreased to 8.5% ± 0.2%, 0.9% ± 0.3%, 0.7% ± 0.3%, 0.5% ± 0.2% and 15.0% ± 0.5%, respectively. Two-dimensional electrophoresis analysis indicated that αS1-, αS2-, β- and κ-CN and a fraction of the β-LG and BSA were found in the MSF following incubation with 0.8% chitosan. Isothermal titration calorimetry analysis indicated that binding of chitosan to milk proteins is an exothermic reaction based on binding titration curves of milk proteins dispersions with chitosan, and the enthalpy of binding (ΔH) and binding constant (Ka) were −7.85 × 104 cal/mol and 1.06 × 105/mol, respectively. These results suggested that the addition of 0.8% chitosan causes milk proteins to coacervate due to polysaccharide-protein interactions.
A Sensorless Predictive Current Controlled Boost Converter by Using an EKF with Load Variation Effect Elimination Function
Authors: Tong Qiaoling , Chen Chen , Zhang Qiao , Zou Xuecheng
Published: April 2015

To realize accurate current control for a boost converter, a precise measurement of the inductor current is required to achieve high resolution current regulating. Current sensors are widely used to measure the inductor current. However, the current sensors and their processing circuits significantly contribute extra hardware cost, delay and noise to the system. They can also harm the system reliability. Therefore, current sensorless control techniques can bring cost effective and reliable solutions for various boost converter applications. According to the derived accurate model, which contains a number of parasitics, the boost converter is a nonlinear system. An Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) is proposed for inductor current estimation and output voltage filtering. With this approach, the system can have the same advantages as sensored current control mode. To implement EKF, the load value is necessary. However, the load may vary from time to time. This can lead to errors of current estimation and filtered output voltage. To solve this issue, a load variation elimination effect elimination (LVEE) module is added. In addition, a predictive average current controller is used to regulate the current. Compared with conventional voltage controlled system, the transient response is greatly improved since it only takes two switching cycles for the current to reach its reference. Finally, experimental results are presented to verify the stable operation and output tracking capability for large-signal transients of the proposed algorithm.