Population distribution and habitat analysis of Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) in Abbottabad, Pakistan / Distribuição da população e análise de habitat de Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) em Abbottabad, Paquistão

The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). The "Point count Method" was used for population estimation and "Quadrates Method" for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

A trepadeira Rufous (Dendrocitta vagabunda) pertence à família corvidae, ordem Passeriformes que inclui cerca de 100 espécies. O estudo atual foi realizado para reunir informações sobre a distribuição da população e análise do habitat de D. vagabunda no distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados mensalmente pela manhã e à noite (2018-2019). O "método de contagem de pontos" foi usado para estimativa da população e o "método dos quadrados" para análise de habitat da área de estudo. O resultado mostra que uma densidade populacional média mensal de D. vagabunda foi máxima em Jhangra 0,14 ± 0,039 / ha, enquanto a mínima em Havelian 0,11 ± 0,022/ha. Não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05) entre as densidades populacionais mensais de D. vagabunda, entretanto foi encontrada diferença significativa (p <0,05) entre os períodos matutino e noturno da população da espécie. O presente estudo revelou que o índice de valor de importância (IVI) das espécies de plantas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 59,6 ± 12,6, 50,1 ± 6,9, 53,4 ± 6,3, 66,8 ± 10 e 60,1 ± 7,7. Da mesma forma, a frequência de arbustos em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 33,3 ± 4,2, 45 ± 9,4, 46,7 ± 8,2, 55,6 ± 22,2 e 37,5 ± 8,5. Da mesma forma, a frequência de ervas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi: 40,4 ± 6,0, 37,5 ± 5,6, 53,3 ± 7,4, 48,5 ± 5,2 e 46,9 ± 7,4, respectivamente. Nossos resultados mostram a área de estudo como habitat adequado para D. vagabunda.

Cytomorphological Features of Hyperchromatic Crowded Groups in Liquid-Based Cervicovaginal Cytology: A Single Institutional Experience

BACKGROUND: Hyperchromatic crowed groups (HCGs) are defined as three-dimensional aggregates of crowded cells with hyperchromatic nuclei, and are frequently encountered in cervicovaginal liquid-based cytology (LBC). Here, we aimed to examine the prevalence of HCGs in cervicovaginal LBC and the cytomorphological characteristics of various epithelial cell clusters presenting as HCGs.METHODS: We first examined the prevalence of HCGs in a “routine cohort” of LBC cytology (n=331), consisting of all cervicovaginal LBCs accessioned over 3 days from outpatient clinics (n=179) and the screening population (n=152). Then we examined a second “high-grade epithelial cell abnormalities (H-ECA) cohort” (n=69) of LBCs diagnosed as high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or adenocarcinoma during 1 year.RESULTS: HCGs was observed in 34.4% of the routine cohort and were significantly more frequent in the epithelial cell abnormality category compared to the non-neoplastic category (p=.003). The majority of HCGs represented atrophy (70%). Of the 69 histologically confirmed H-ECA cases, all contained HCGs. The majority of cases were HSIL (62%), followed by SCC (16%). Individually scattered neoplastic cells outside the HCGs were significantly more frequent in SCCs compared to glandular neoplasia (p=.002). Despite the obscuring thick nature of the HCGs, examining the edges and the different focal planes of the HCGs and the background were helpful in defining the nature of the HCGs.CONCLUSIONS: HCGs were frequently observed in cervicovaginal LBC and were mostly non-neoplastic; however, neoplastic HCGs were mostly high-grade lesions. Being aware of the cytomorphological features of different HCGs is important in order to avoid potential false-negative cytology interpretation.

Determining the pathogenicity of bacteria present in wetland waters and crow feces in Bothell / Determinando a patogenicidade de bactérias presentes naságuas dos pântanos e em fezes de corvos em Bothell

This study will determine the pathogenicity of bacteria isolated from the wetland waters and crows feces within the UWBothell campus. This emanated from the need to determine whether the American crow (Corvus brachyrhyncos) has arole in the epidemiology of diarrheal disease along with its significant con-tribution to the high level of fecal coliformsin the stream water that runs through the crow roosting area. Modified from previous studies, we developed protocolsto culture Escherichia coli and Campylobacter, both are known to be pathogenic and present in crow feces, to isolateDNA from cultures or samples, and to perform PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)/qPCR (Quantitative PolymeraseChain Reaction) to detect virulence genes. We found that the virulence genes eae and rfb that are necessary to causediarrhea were absent in a representative number of E. coli strains isolated from the water samples and the fecal samples.The virulence genes flaA and cad in the Campylobacter species were detected in fecal samples (77.8% and 73%,respectively) and in water samples (75% each). In conclusion, our hypothesis could not be verified, but our resultssuggest that the Campylobacter isolated from wetland water and crow feces are potentially pathogenic. However, theresults are not conclusive and more sample and virulence genes specific to ex-traintestinal pathogenic E. coli, need to bescreened in order to accurately assess the pathogenicity of these bacteria

Este estudo determinará a patogenicidade de bactérias isoladas das águas pantanais e fezes de corvos den-tro do campusUW (University of Washington) Bothell. Este estudo emanou da necessidade de determinar se o corvo americano (Corvusbrachyrhyncos) tem um papel na epidemiologia da doença diarréica, junta-mente com sua contribuição significativapara o alto nível de coliformes fecais na água do fluxo que per-corre a área onde as aves se alojam. Modificado a partirde estudos anteriores, desenvolvemos protocolos para cultura de Escherichia coli e Campylobacter, ambas conhecidaspor serem patogênicas e presentes em fezes de corvos, isolar DNA de culturas ou amostras e realizar PCR/qPCR paradetectar genes de virulên-cia. Descobriu-se que os genes de virulência eae e rfb que são necessários para causar diarreiaestavam au-sentes num número representativo de estirpes de E. coli isoladas das amostras de água e das amostras fecais.Os genes de virulência flaA e cad em espécies de Campylobacter foram detectados em amostras fecais (77,8% e73%, respectivamente) e em amostras de água (75% cada). Concluindo, nossa hipotese não pôde ser confirmada, masnossos resultados sugerem que a Campylobacter isolada das amostras de água e de fezes de corvo é potencialmentepatogênica. No entanto, os resultados não são conclusivos e mais amostras e genes de virulência específicos para E. coliextraintestinal patogênica necessitam ser identificados, a fim de avaliar com precisão a patogenicidade destas bactérias

Calcar Femorale in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Hip Secondary to Developmental Dysplasia

BACKGROUND: We investigated whether the calcar femorale, a cortical septum in the region of the lesser trochanter of the femur, correlates with results of femoral stem implantation in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip secondary to developmental dysplasia using computed tomography. METHODS: This retrospective study included 277 hips (41 males and 236 females; age, 37 to 92 years) of patients who had presented to Okayama Medical Center with hip pain. Of these, a total of 219 hips (31 males and 188 females) had previously undergone total hip arthroplasty. According to the Crowe classification, 147 hips were classified as Crowe grade I, 72 hips as Crowe grade II–IV, and 58 hips as normal. RESULTS: The calcar femorale was identified in 267 hips (96.4%). The calcar femorale was significantly shorter and more anteverted in Crowe grade II–IV hips than in Crowe grade I or normal hips. Significant differences in the shape of the calcar femorale were found according to the severity of hip deformity. Three stem designs were analyzed: single-wedge (59 hips), double-wedge metaphyseal filling (147 hips), and modular (13 hips). Single-wedge stems were inserted more parallel to the calcar femorale rather than femoral neck anteversion, while other types of stems scraped the calcar femorale. CONCLUSIONS: The angle of the calcar femorale differs according to the severity of hip deformity, and the calcar femorale might thus serve as a more useful reference for stem insertion than femoral neck anteversion in total hip arthroplasty using a single-wedge stem.

Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty Involving Trochanteric Osteotomy without Subtrochanteric Shortening for High Hip Dislocation

BACKGROUND: Total hip arthroplasty with subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy is widely performed for high hip dislocation. However, suboptimal leg length discrepancy correction and nonunion of the osteotomy site remain concerns. Although total hip arthroplasty using trochanteric osteotomy without subtrochanteric osteotomy was introduced, cemented implants have been more commonly used than contemporary cementless implants in this procedure. We evaluated the long-term results of cementless total hip arthroplasty with trochanteric osteotomy without subtrochanteric osteotomy for high hip dislocation. METHODS: From 1990 to 2002, 27 cementless total hip arthroplasties using trochanteric osteotomy without subtrochanteric osteotomy were performed in 26 patients with Crowe III or IV high hip dislocation and a mean age of 36.4 ± 12.9 years. Seven ceramic-on-ceramic, 8 ceramic-on-polyethylene, 10 metal-on-polyethylene, and 2 metal-on-metal bearings were inserted. Mean follow-up was 15.1 ± 3.7 years. We retrospectively reviewed medical records and radiographic data and evaluated the clinical and radiological results including the Harris hip score, implant survival, correction of leg length discrepancy, and occurrence of complications. RESULTS: The mean Harris hip score and leg length discrepancy improved significantly from 73.3 to 94.9 points and from 4.3 cm to 1.0 cm, respectively. With revision for loosening set as the end point, implant survival rates at 10 and 15 years postoperatively were 96.0% and 90.9% for stems and 74.1% and 52.3% for cups. In 8 of 10 hips with the metal-on-polyethylene bearing and 4 of 8 hips with the ceramic-on-polyethylene bearing, revision surgery was performed for aseptic loosening. However, no revision was performed in hips with the ceramic-on-ceramic bearing or the metal-on-metal bearing. Implant survival was significantly different by the type of bearing surface. Two permanent neurologic complications occurred in patients with a limb lengthening over 3.5 cm. CONCLUSIONS: With proper selection of the bearing surface coupled with adjustment of lengthening, cementless total hip arthroplasty using trochanteric osteotomy without subtrochanteric osteotomy might be a favorable treatment option for high hip dislocation.

Relationship Between Cognitive Function and Dysphagia After Stroke

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the characteristics of cognitive deficits in patients with post-stroke dysphagia, and to analyze the relationships between cognitive dysfunction and severity of dysphagia in supratentorial stroke. METHODS: A total of 55 patients with first-ever supratentorial lesion stroke were enrolled retrospectively, within 3 months of onset. We rated dysphagia from 0 (normal) to 4 (severe) using the dysphagia severity scale (DSS) through clinical examinations and videofluoroscopic swallowing studies (VFSS). The subjects were classified either as non-dysphagic (scale 0) or dysphagic (scale 1 to 4). We compared general characteristics, stroke severity and the functional scores of the two groups. We then performed comprehensive cognitive function tests and investigated the differences in cognitive performance between the two groups, and analyzed the correlation between cognitive test scores, DSS, and parameters of oral and pharyngeal phase. RESULTS: Fugl-Meyer motor assessment, the Berg Balance Scale, and the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index showed significant differences between the two groups. Cognitive test scores for the dysphagia group were significantly lower than the non-dysphagia group. Significant correlations were shown between dysphagia severity and certain cognitive subtest scores: visual span backward (p=0.039), trail making tests A (p=0.042) and B (p=0.002), and Raven progressive matrices (p=0.002). The presence of dysphagia was also significantly correlated with cognitive subtests, in particular for visual attention and executive attention (odds ratio [OR]=1.009; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.002–1.016; p=0.017). Parameters of premature loss were also significantly correlated with the same subtests (OR=1.009; 95% CI, 1.002–1.016; p=0.017). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that cognitive function is associated with the presence and severity of post-stroke dysphagia. Above all, visual attention and executive functions may have meaningful influence on the oral phase of swallowing in stroke patients with supratentorial lesions.

Associated Factors for Lumbar Degenerative Spondylolisthesis in Japanese Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Hip: A Radiographic Study

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. PURPOSE: To determine the presence and frequency of factors for degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS) in patients with hip osteoarthritis (OA). OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE: OA of the hip joint (hip OA) in Japanese patients is associated with a high incidence of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DS). However the associated factors for DS in patients with hip OA are unclear. METHODS: The study included 518 patients (59 men and 459 women) with a mean age of 63.8 years who underwent total hip arthroplasty for hip OA at our hospital between January 2004 and May 2014. The presence of DS was assessed using preoperative standing lateral radiographs of the hip joint including the lower lumbar spine. To identify the associated factors for DS in patients with hip OA, multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted in which the presence or absence of DS was used as a dependent variable, and age, female sex, body mass index (BMI), sacral slope (SS), Crowe classification, and primary OA (P-OA) not associated with acetabular dysplasia were independent variables. RESULTS: Patients with DS accounted for 114 (22.0%) of 518 cases. In multiple logistic regression analysis to identify associated factors for DS in patients with hip OA, the odds ratio for age was 1.05 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.08), female sex was 2.48 (95% CI, 1.11–5.54), BMI was 1.08 (95% CI, 1.02–1.14), SS was 1.07 (95% CI, 1.04–1.09), Crowe classification was 0.60 (95% CI, 0.40–0.91), and P-OA was 1.90 (95% CI, 1.20–3.75). CONCLUSIONS: Age, female sex, BMI, SS, low Crowe classification, and P-OA are independently associated factors for DS in patients with hip OA.

Cementless Total Hip Arthroplasty in Dysplastic Hips

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical and radiological results after cementless total hip arthroplasty in dysplastic hips. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 36 cases that underwent total hip arthroplasty using a cementless prosthesis in our hospital from July 1990 to May 2008. The average time of of follow-up was 103.7 months. In total, 27 cases about 24 patients were women, and 8 cases about 7 patients were men. The average age at the time of operation was 55.7 years(29-80 years). In total, 26 cases were Crowe type I and 8 cases were Crowe type II. One case was Crowe type IV. Acetabular cup angles and the contact ratio between the acetabular cup and the host bone were measured, and the grafting bone was observed for absorption in the follow-up radiographs. Revision of components was defined as a failure. RESULTS: Harris hip score was improved from 55.1 points pre-operatively to 86.1 points in the last follow-up. Revision was done in 12 cases(33.3%). Altogether, 10 cases revised the acetabular cup for osteolysis and polyethylene wear and 2 cases exchanged a polyethylene liner for only liner wear. CONCLUSION: Total hip arthroplasty in the dysplastic hip using a cementless acetabular cup, not a hydroxyapatite-coated acetabular cup, showed good clinical and radiological results when the contact ratio between acetabular cup and bone was above 70%.

Gastrointestinal helminths of magpies [Pica pica], rooks [Corvus frugilegus] and carrion crows [Corvus corone] in Mazandaran province, north of Iran

Corvidae is a cosmopolitan family of oscine birds including crows, rooks, magpies, jays, chough, and ravens. These birds are migratory species, especially in the shortage of foods, so they can act like vectors for a wide range of microorganisms. They live generally in temperate climates and in a very close contact with human residential areas as well as poultry farms. There is no available information in the literature concerning the parasitic infections of these three species of corvidae in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran, so this study was conducted to clarify this. As there are three species of corvid birds in Mazandaran Province, 106 birds including 79 magpies, 11 rooks, and 16 carrion crows were examined between winter 2007 and spring 2008 at post mortem for gastrointestinal helminths. The helminths were drawn and identified morphologically in the Laboratory of Parasitology, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran and also partly in the School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, based on the reference books and identification keys like Soulsby, Khalil et al. and Anderson et al. Four species of nematodes, 2 species of cestodes, 1 species of trematodes and 1 species of acanthocephalans were identified in these three corvid species. Five species of the helminths are identified for the first time in Iran, and the acanthocephalan species is new host record for rooks. It is clear that these corvid birds have diverse range of helminths and can act as carriers for infecting the domestic fowls

Acute Respiratory Infections in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Isolation of Viruses and the Characteristics of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

PURPOSE: Recently, it is easy to find the causal virus of acute respiratory infections using multiplex RT-PCR. The aim of this study is to show the distribution of respiratory viruses and to define the characteristics of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections compared to other respiratory viral infections. METHODS: This was a prospective observational study conducted in the NICU. The infants with acute respiratory infections were performed multiplex RT-PCR using nasal swabs. The demographics, initial symptoms, course of illness, and laboratory and imaging findings were recorded. The infants were divided into RSV and No RSV groups. RESULTS: Twenty-three infants (50%) were in the RSV group. Rhinovirus was the second most common virus. Coinfections with two viruses accounted for 6.5% of respiratory infections. The number of preterm infants, exposure to cigarette smoke and having siblings were not different between the two groups. Infections in the postnatal care center were more common in the RSV group than the No RSV group (60.9% vs. 21.7%, P=.007). Dyspnea (34.8% vs. 8.7%, P=.032) and pneumonia (73.9% vs. 43.5%, P=.036) were more common in the RSV group. The RSV group frequently needed oxygen (52.5% vs. 13.0%, P=.005) and received nothing by mouth (43.5% vs. 13.0%, P=.022). The incidence of right upper consolidation was higher in RSV group (56.5% vs. 8.7%, P=.001). CONCLUSION: This study showed that other viruses than RSV can induce respiratory infections in neonates and young infants born prematurely. RSV infections have a more severe course of illness than other respiratory viruses. We have to be careful of prevention even for healthy neonates especially in crowed situations, such as the postnatal care center.

A mechanical model of wing and theoretical estimate of taper factor for three gliding birds.

We tested a mechanical model of wing,which was constructed using the measurements of wingspan and wing area taken from three species of gliding birds.In this model,we estimated the taper factors of the wings for jackdaw (Corrus monedula), Harris' hawk (Parabuteo unicinctas) and Lagger falcon (Falco jugger) as 1.8, 1.5 and 1.8,respectively. Likewise, by using the data linear regression and curve estimation method,as well as estimating the taper factors and the angle between the humerus and the body, we calculated the relationship between wingspan,wing area and the speed necessary to meet the aerodynamic requirements of sustained flight.In addition,we calculated the relationship between the speed,wing area and wingspan for a specific angle between the humerus and the body over the range of stall speed to maximum speed of gliding flight.We then compared the results for these three species of gliding birds. These comparisons suggest that the aerodynamic characteristics of Harris' hawk wings are similar to those of the falcon but different from those of the jackdaw.This paper also presents two simple equations to estimate the minimum angle between the humerus and the body as well as the minimum span ratio of a bird in gliding flight.

Gait Analysis before and after Total Hip Arthroplasty in Hip Dysplasia and Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the abnormal gait patterns and gait improvements after a total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with hip dysplasia and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-four patients (mean age of 43.7 years) with hip dysplasia who underwent THA were divided into the Crowe types (15 type 1, 11 type 2, 3 type 3, and 5 type 4), and gait analyses of these patients were performed using the Vicon 370 motion analysis system. The results of this group were compared with those of 39 age and gender matched patients with ONFH who received a THA and a group of 24 individuals with normal hips. RESULTS: Preoperatively, the gait pattern of the hip dysplasia group did not differ significantly from that of the ONFH group with respect to the temporal gait measurement parameters, kinematics, and kinetics. However, the hip dysplasia group had a different gait pattern than the normal control group and one year after surgery, there were significant differences in the moments and powers of the hip flexors and abductors of patients with severe hip dysplasia (Crowe types 3 and 4) compared with those of the ONFH patients. CONCLUSION: There were less postoperative gait improvements in the patients with severe hip dysplasia than in those with ONFH who had a relatively normal anatomy. These observations might be the result of their weakened hip muscles, particularly the flexors and abductors, despite their increased range of motion after surgery. Perioperative muscle strengthening exercises may be needed to improve gait patterns in patients with hip dysplasia.

The Classification and Clinical Characteristics of the Crow`s Feet in Koreans

Most common signs of human aging often include skin fold and wrinkles in the lateral canthal area. It is called "crow's feet". The accordion-like activity of the orbicularis oculi muscle during movements of facial expression accentuates this phenomenon because the muscle shortens but the skin does not. The purpose of this study is to present the classification of the crow's feet and to look for it's clinical characteristics in Koreans. The pictures of lateral view of the crows feet in 105 patients taken with digital camera are classified by their age, sex, types and degree of direction. Results show that there are three types of crows feet such as upper, lower and bidirectional types. Bidirectional type is the most common type(85%), lower directional type is 15% and upper directional type is 5%. In thirties, bidirectional type is 50% but the rate of this type increases in older groups. So in over sixties, bidirectional type is almost 100%. There are no differences between the two sexes. The degree of the direction of wrinkles increases in thirties and forties, but in fifties or over no difference was seen. In summary, this study could be helpful to decide the procedure in correction of the crow's feet.

Cementless Total Hip Replacement Arthroplasty with Subtrochanteric Shortening Osteotomy in Crowe IV Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of the current study is to introduce a surgical technique of total hip arthroplasty, by which a postsurgical neurologic deficit can be prevented and excellent clinical and radiological outcome can be obtained in patients with Crowe IV developmental dysplasia of the hip. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve hip joints underwent hip joint arthroplasty at our hospital between October 1995 and November 1997 due to hip joint arthritis secondary to developmental dysplasia of the hip. Among them six hip joints of five patients which belonged to the Crowe Classification IV were operated using cementless total hip arthroplasty with subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy. The medical records and radiographs of these five patients were reviewed. The average follow up period was 61.2 months (range of 40 to 77 months). Preoperative Harris hip score ranged from 61 to 71 (average, 66.2) points. Leg length discrepancy ranged from 2.0 to 5.5 (average, 4.1) cm. RESULTS: Harris Hip Score was improved to 95.3 (87 to 100) points at the last follow-up examination. The postoperative leg length was same bilaterally in five cases except for one case. Bone union in the osteotomy site was obtained three months after surgery. The radiolucent area and findings of movement of the acetabular cup were not observed. Subcidence of the femoral stem or pedestal formation was not observed in five cases. In one case, revision was done for the subcidence of 5 mm or more with radiolucent line around the entire stem and pedestal formation at 48 months postoperatively. One case showed femoral nerve paralysis immediately after the surgery, which recovered completely in six months after the surgery. CONCLUSION: This surgical technique is a useful method in total hip arthroplasty for the Crowe IV developmental dysplasia of the hip without permanent neurologic deficit.

Effects of Soy Protein and Isoflavones on Bone Mineral Density in Crowing Female Rats

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of soy protein and soy isoflavones on bone and mineral density in young female Sprague-Dawley rats. Fifty eight rats (body Weight 75+/-5 g) were randomly assigned to one of four groups, consuming casein, soy protein concentrate, soy protein isolate (57 mg isoflavones/100 g diet) or casein added isoflavones (57 mg isoflavones /100 g diet). All rats were fed on experimental diet and deionized water ad libitum for 9 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) were measured using PIXImus (GE Lunar Co, Wisconsin, USA) in spine and femur on 3, 6, 9 weeks after feeding. The serum and urine concentrations of Ca and P were determined. Diet did not affect weight gain and mean food intake. Food efficiency ratio was lower In soy protein groups. The serum concentration of Ca and P were not changed by soy protein and isoflavones. Urinary Ca and P excretion were not significantly different. Spine BMD was significantly increased by soy protein isolate on 3 and 6 weeks after feeding. Femur BMD was significantly increased in the groups of soy protein isolate and isoflavones adding on after 9 weeks. Therefore, soy protein with rich isoflavones may be beneficial on spine and femur BMD increasement in growing female rats.

Effects of BCG or AG60 on Gastric Parietal Cells of the Mouse Implanted with Ehrlich Carcinoma Cells / 대한해부학회지

This experiment was performed to evaluate the morphological responses of the gastric parietal cells of mouse inoculated with Ehrlich carcinoma cells, following administration of Bacillus Calmette -Guerin (BCG) or acriflavine -guanosine composition (AG60, Taerim Pharm. Co. Seoul, Korea). In the experimental groups, each mouse was inoculated with 1 X 10(7) Ehrlich carcinoma cells subcutaneously in the inguinal area. From next day, 0.2 ml of saline, BCG (0.03 X 10(8) ~0.32 X 10(8) CFU) or AG60 (30 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously to the animals every other day. Animals were sacrificed on the 14th day from the first injection. Pieces of the tissue were taken from the stomach, prefixed with 2.5% glutaraldehyde -1.5% paraformaldehyde, followed by post -fixation with 1% osmium tetroxide. The ultrathin sections stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate were observed with a JEM 100CX -II electron microscope. In the experimental control, the BCG and the AG60 treated groups, most parietal cells showed reduced lumenal spaces of the intracellular canaliculi, since microvilli of intracellular canaliculi were very irregularly shaped and crowed with each other. And in the BCG and the AG60 treated mice, myelin figures, lysosomes and multivesicular bodies in the parietal cells were observed more frequently than in those of the experimental control ones. In the BCG treated rats, membranes of the tubulovesicles of the parietal cells were disintegrated, but the similar changes were not observed in the AG60 treated mice,. Above results suggest that the BCG treated animals inoculated with Ehrlich carcinoma cells might suffer from reduced acid secretion of the parietal cell, since the disintegration of the tubulovesicular membranes in the parietal cells are occurred following injections. Whereas AG60 dose not affect remakably defect on the parietal cells.

The Clinical Results of Total Hip Replacement Arthroplasty for Infection Hip Sequelae with Dislocation and Severe Shortening / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of total hip replacement arthroplasty (THRA) in sequelae of the infected hip with dislocation and severe shortening. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 22 cases of THRA performed from January 1985 to March 1995, for painful, dislocated hips secondary to infection in childhood, with shortening of the limb more than 5 cm. Among 22 cases, seventeen were pyogenic infection sequelae, and five were tuberculous infection sequelae. RESULTS: Mean followup period was 44 months (range: 24-111 months) . The mean value of the Harris score was increased to 86.7, which had been 61. The mean postoperative limb-length discrepancy was 1.8 cm and amount of correction ranged from 2.5 cm to 6.1 cm (average : 4.2 cm) . There was remarkable difference between the Crowe Group I and combined Group II and III in correction of shortening. The incidence of radiological loosening was not related to preoperative morbid period or the age of patients. CONCLUSION: The main resistant factor in lengthening of the affected limb was soft tissue contracture related to old age or long term after infection, and complication rate (14%) was higher than that in the other kinds of disease on hip.

Skin Characteristics of Normal Korean Subjects According to Sex and Site using Non-Invasive Bioengineering Methods / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: During the last few years, the in vivo study of the physiological parameters of the skin by non-invasive methods has been considerably developed. So far, there have been some reports on the skin characteristics only in parts, but there has not been any criteria to classify those of normal subjects. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to investigate the skin characteristics of healthy Korean subjects according to sex and sites using non-invasive methods. METHODS: To determine normal levels of sebum, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin elasticity and skin color according to sex, 163 subjects (male; 124, female; 39) were used to investigate 5 different anatomical sites. 6 different instruments were used: The Sebummeter SM 410, Corneometer CM 820, Evaporimeter EP1, Cutometer SEM 474, Chromameter CR-121, and Mexameter MX 16, for evaluating sebum excretion rate, capacitance, TEWL, mechanical property and skin color respectively. RESULTS: Differences were noticed depending on the anatomical sites and sex. Most of the measuring parameters were significantly different according to sites and sex. The values of sebum levels, capacitance and TEWL were higher in the males on the cheek, forehead and crows foot, whereas in the females, higher values were observed on the dorsum of the hand. The skin elasticity varied considerably among the nine-parameters but, for the elastic ratio (R2, R5), the females showed significantly higher values than the males in all sites except the forehead. Skin lightness (L* value) was higher in the females, whereas the males showed lugher values in the category of redness (a* value) and yellowness (b* value). The values of the eqrthema index (EI) and melanin index (MI) were also higher in the males on all sites. Correlations between the skin parameters mentioned above were calculated. A negative, correlation between capacitance and TEWL was observed only on the cheek (male/female, r =-0.2/ r =-0.4, p<0.05). The L* value correlated negatively with MI. Mioreover the values between a* and El also showed sipificant correlations in the male (cheek and dorsum of hand, y =0.2, forehead and crows foot, r =0.3, p<0.05). There were considerably significant correlations between the visual pigmentation score and instrumental skin parameters in the males (visual pigmentation score vs. L* value measured by Chromameter ; cheek/crows foot, r = -0.3/y =-0.4, visual pigmentation score vs. MI by Mexameter ; cheek/crows foot, r =0.2/ r =0.4, viisual winkle score vs. sebum excretion rate measured by Sebumeter ; cheek, r=0.2, visual winkle score vs. elasticity parameters measured by Cutometer ; cheek, R2/R5/R7, r =-0.3/ r =-0.2/ r =-0.3, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Skin physiological parameters can be evaluated by non-invasive skin bioengineering methods which show quantitative modifications in physiological conditions in relation to sites and sex.

A study on the relationship between tooth size and arch dimension in dental crowding / 대한치과교정학회지

This study was undertaken to examine relationship between tooth size and arch dimension in dental crowding. Two groups of dental casts were selected on the basis of dental crowding. One group, consisting of 51 pairs of dental casts (24 male and 27 female), exhibited remarkable dental crowding. A second group, consisting of 60 pairs of dental casts (30 male and 30 female), exhibited little or no crowding. Mean and standard deviation of the following parameters were used to compare two groups: individual and collective mesiodistal tooth diameters, buccal and lingual arch widths and arch area. The following results were obtained. 1. The crowed group revealed larger tooth size than non crowd group. (p<0.01) 2. The crowded group smaller maxillary dental arch dimension than noncrowded group except lingual arch width at canine region. (p<0.01) 3. The crowded group revealed smaller mandibular dental arch dimension than noncrowded group except lingal arch width at second premolar region in the male and buccal arch width at canine, premolar region in the female. (p<0.01) 4. The crowded group revealed smaller arch area than noncrowded group in the female (p<0.01), but there was no significance in the male.

Clinical and Genetic Studies of Tuberous Sclerosis / 대한피부과학회지

The present clinical study was attempted to estimate the frequency of tuberous sclerosis using a paradigm. similar to the one employed by Crowe et al and to determine the genetic charaeteristics of the people of Chonnam Pravince regarding said disease. In addition other clinical manifestations were observed. Twenty-five subjects had visited the Department of Dermatology of Chonnam Medical University Hospital between 1970 and l980. Relatives of the subjects were examined whenever possible. The results of this study show that the incidence of this syndrome m Chonnam Province is probably in the region of l/80, 000~90,000. The sex ratio was nearly equal,12 males to 13 females. The mean age at first visit was about fifteen. OnIy 20 per cent of the cases have a familial history of the disease but the correct, incidence is probably higher since some patients provided incomplete family histories This clinical study suggests that tuberous sclerosis is an autosomal dominant inheritance disease with variable expressivity evidenced by the fact that although five of eleven of the groups offspring developed tuberosus sclerosis There were differences in the clinical features between the parent and the chiid.