bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of surgical wounds on the uterus after laparoscopic myomectomy
Authors: Sedlar Srdjan , Jokic Zoran , Dimitrijevic Aleksandra , Zivanovic Aleksandar
Published: January 2010

Introduction. The advantages of laparoscopic removal of a myoma over classical surgical technique are shorter hospital stay, rapid recovery and less pain after surgery, as well as a lower frequency of ileus and thromboembolic complications. The surgical technique of laparoscopic removal of myoma involves four basic stages: incision on the wall of the uterus, separation of the myoma from the healthy uterine tissue, to stop bleeding and removal of the myoma from the abdomen. Apart from these four basic stages, it is also necessary to establish a new integrity of the uterine wall, especially in women planning pregnancy. Objective. The aim of the paper is to present the procedures used in the treatment of uterine wall defect during the laparoscopic removal of the myoma. Methods. We analyzed 96 patients who were indicated for laparoscopic myomectomy. All patients were divided into four groups according to the type of the technique of haemostasis and treatment of the defect on the uterine wall: electrocoagulation, electrocoagulation with application of argon plasma, a single suture and extended suture. Results. In order to stop bleeding, we most often used electrocoagulation by monopolar electricity, i.e. in 39.6% of the patients. To stop bleeding and treat the defect of the uterine wall, we used a single suture in 21.9% and in 11.4% patients we used the extended suture. The manner of uterine wall treatment did not have a statistically significant influence on the results of haematological parameters (p>0.05), consumption of carbon dioxide (p>0.05) and the duration of surgical procedure (p>0.05). The increased use of antibiotics (p<0.05) in the group of patients in whom we treated the defect by sutures on the uterus, the length of postsurgical hospitalization and absence from work (p<0.01) was statistically significant. Conclusion. To achieve a better reconstruction of the uterus, it is recommended to use sutures with laparoscopic removal of myoma.
Arthrosonography and biomarkers in the evaluation of destructive knee cartilage osteoarthrosis
Authors: Zivanovic Sandra , Petrovic-Rackov Ljiljana , Zivanovic Aleksandar
Published: January 2010

Introduction. Knee osteoarthrosis (OA) is a degenerative disease with progressive loss of cartilage of joints and bone destruction. During this process, the release of fragments of connective tissue matrix is detected in the biological fluids such as human cartilage glycoprotein (YKL-40), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and collagen type I C terminal telopeptid (CTX-I). Objective. The aim of the study was to determine the degree of connection cartilage thickness measured by ultrasound with serum concentrations of biomarkers YKL-40, COMP and CTX-I in patients with primary knee OA. Methods. The analysis included 88 patients with the diagnosis of knee OA. Ultrasound examination of knees were done by two rheumatologists. The analysis of serum samples determined the concentration of COMP, YKL-40 and CTX-I by the ELISA method. Results. The average age of patients was 69.97?9.37 years and the duration of knee OA 6.46?6.73 years. The average cartilage thickness of the femoral condyle was 1.33?0.20 mm; of the medial condyle (MC) (front access) 1.30?0.23 mm, (rear access) 1.30?0.29 mm and lateral condyli (LC) (front access) 1.39?0.27 mm. The average cartilage thickness of MC (front access) was 1.27 mm (0.98-1.42 mm), (rear access) 1.27 mm (0.84-1.46 mm) and LC (front access) 1.36 mm (1.01-1.57 mm) (p=0.002). There was a significant connection in the negative direction between the patients' age and the cartilage thickness of MC (front and rear access) and LC (front access) (r=-0.253; p=0.017). There was a significant negative direction of interrelationship between the cartilage thickness of MC (front access) (r=-0.259; p=0.015) and LC (front access) and the disease duration (r=-0.259; p=0.015). In patients with knee OA lasting for 5 years the measured cartilage thickness was 1.27 mm (1.16-1.49 mm), and 0.99 mm (0.94-1.23 mm) (p=0.007) in those lasting for 20 years. There was a significant relationship in a negative direction between the concentration of YKL-40 and cartilage thickness of MC (front access) (r=-0.249; p=0.019). Conclusion. The progressive loss of cartilage during the long-term evolution of osteoarthrosis is most extensive in the femoral MC. The increased serum levels of YKL-40 can be a good indicator of joint cartilage destruction.
Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia: Case report
Authors: Miladinovic-Djukanovic Natasa , Djokovic Jelena , Torbica Nikola , Popevic Martin
Published: January 2010

Introduction. Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia is a particular form of inflammatory and fibroproliferative lung disease. The disease onset is subacute with cough, dyspnoea, fever, weight loss, and elevation of biological inflammatory markers. Chest imaging usually shows multifocal alveolar opacities predominating in the subpleural regions. Lung biopsy reveals budding connective tissue filling the distal airspaces. Case outline. A 57-year-old electrician complaining of cough, dyspnoea, and fatigue was diagnosed with pneumonia and treated with antibiotics and antihistaminics. After clinical and radiographic progression of the disease, open lung biopsy was performed, some 15 months after the disease onset. The diagnosis of cryptogenic organising pneumonia was made. The patient was treated with oral and inhalatory corticosteroids and finally with cytostatics, which led to a partial improvement of his condition. However, work capacity was lost and the quality of life seriously deteriorated. Conclusion. The diagnosis is established by combining clinical, radiological and histological criteria. Similarities with other disease processes can lead to a delayed or erroneous diagnosis. Most patients respond well to corticosteroid therapy (prednisone or methyl-prednisolone). Relapses are frequent but can generally be controlled.
Paralytic dislocations of the hip in adolescence: Orthopaedic treatment
Authors: Cobeljic Goran
Published: January 2010

Paralytic dislocation of the hip in adolescence is not typical, but presents a serious problem whether diagnosed primarily in adolescence or due to the lack of treatment or failed treatment in earlier age. It is characteristic of cerebral palsy and myelomeningocele. If the paralytic dislocation of the hip in adolescence is asymmetric, then pelvic obliquity, leg-length discrepancy, imbalance in sitting position, scoliosis and secondary spondylosis with all its consequences ensue. Complications like hip pains due to secondary arthrosis and walking ability impairment are frequent in ambulatory patients. The dislocation is the result of muscle imbalances in the hip region. The diagnosis is based on Illness history, clinical examination, neurological examination and radiography. Treatment is mostly operative, except in cases of pelvic symmetry and absence of difficulties. Pelvic and/or femoral osteotomy with or without open reduction of the hip is done in ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy. Soft-tissue surgery, hip flexors release and tenotomy of the hip adductors, are done in non-ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy. In patients with myelomeningocele soft-tissue surgery, hip flexors release and tractus iliotibialis resection on the lower side of the pelvis, are done regardless of the ability to walk. The same bone surgery procedures as in cerebral palsy are done only in ambulatory patients with unilateral dislocations if soft-tissue surgery failed.
Criteria selection for the assessment of Serbian lignites tendency to form deposits on power boilers heat transfer surfaces
Authors: Mladenovic Milica , MladenoviC Rastko , Manovic Vasilije , Radovanovic Milan , Stojiljkovic Dragoslava
Published: January 2010

Based on investigations of ash deposit formation, semi-empirical indicators for slagging and fouling, based on ash chemical composition and its fusion temperature, have been determined. These criteria-indicators, in suggested limits, describe the coals on which they are based (North-American and British) well. However, the experience in the thermal power production sector of Serbia shows that their literal application to domestic coals does not produce satisfactory results. This contribution provides an analysis of applicability and the choice of criteria that are suitable for Serbian coals. The focus of the contribution is on coal slagging indicators, since slagging has much heavier consequences on heat transfer inside the steam boiler, and on boiler operation as a whole. The basis for the analysis of chosen criteria comprises of the results of investigations of four coal fields - Kostolac, Kolubara, Kosovo (Serbia), and Ugljevik (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
Residual life estimation of a thermal power plant component: The high-pressure turbine housing case
Authors: Jovicic Gordana , Grabulov Vencislav , Maksimovic Stevan , Zivkovic Miroslav , Jovicic Nebojsa , Boskovic Goran , Maksimovic Katarina
Published: January 2010

This study focuses on the estimation of residual life of damaged thermal power plant components. The high-pressure turbine housing was chosen as an example of thermal power plant component where, during the years of exploitation, damage appeared in the form of dominant crack. Residual life estimation procedure, based upon experimental and numerical methods has been introduced and applied. Material properties were determined experimentally both at room and operating temperature, while all necessary calculations were performed by the special finite element method, so-called X-FEM. The residual life estimation of the damaged high-pressure turbine housing was performed by applying the Paris's law for crack growth analysis.
Experimental research of limits for thermal modulation transfer function
Authors: Tomic Ljubisa , Milinovic Momcilo
Published: January 2010

The paper presented testing of surface defects by pulse video thermography techniques. Such techniques rely on transient infrared radiation from the sample heated by the short duration flux initiated by flesh. Experimental measurements are realized by infrared sensor (FLIR camera). Testing results are considered for the samples with controlled designed defects beyond observed surfaces. The effects of response through the transparent wall are measured as infrared visible radiance. Researches with controlled samples are performed to verify visibility threshold of defect dimensions and forms, for possible use as modulation transfer function of defects hidden beyond the surfaces of thin metal walls. Dimensionless coefficients are derived for method estimations as the results from experimental research.
Finite element analysis of spot laser of steel welding temperature history
Authors: Shibib Khalid , Minshid Mohammed , Tahir Mayada
Published: January 2010

Laser welding process reduces the heat input to the work-piece which is the main goal in aerospace and electronics industries. A finite element model for axi-symmetric transient heat conduction has been used to predict temperature distribution through a steel cylinder subjected to CW laser beam of rectangular beam profile. Many numerical improvements had been used to reduce time of calculation and size of the program so as to achieve the task with minimum time required. An experimental determined absorptivity has been used to determine heat induced when laser interact with material. The heat affected zone and welding zone have been estimated to determine the effect of welding on material. The ratio of depth to width of the welding zone can be changed by proper selection of beam power to meet the specific production requirement. The temperature history obtained numerically has been compared with experimental data indicating good agreement.
Numerical three-dimensional analysis of the mechanism of flow and heat transfer in a vortex tube
Authors: Nezhad Hossein , Shamsoddini Rahim
Published: January 2010

A fully three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic model is used to analyze the mechanism of flow and heat transfer in a vortex tube. Vortex tube is a simple circular tube with interesting function and several industrial applications and contains one or more inlets and two outlets. It is used as a spot cooling device in industry. The past numerical investigations of vortex tube have been performed with the two-dimensional axisymmetric assumption but in the present work this problem is studied fully three-dimensional without making that assumption. Using this model, appropriate numerical results are presented to clarify physical understanding of the flow and energy separation inside the vortex tube. It is observed that there are considerable differences between the results of the two aforementioned models, and that the results of fully three-dimensional model are more accurate and agree better with available experimental data. Moreover, the parameters affecting the cooling efficiency of the vortex tube are discussed.
Thermal performance and economic assessment of masonry bricks
Authors: Ahmad Aftab , Al-Hadhrami Luai
Published: January 2010

The objective of this study was to assess the thermal performance and economic assessment of different types of clay and concrete masonry brick wall samples used in building construction. In this study, eighteen types of clay bricks and two types of concrete bricks were analyzed for thermal performance. The bricks were classified and grouped based on the brick configuration, material, and size. The analysis of the results shows that the equivalent thermal conductivity does not depend only on the brick material and configuration but also on the brick thickness. The bricks having same configuration and size, the equivalent thermal conductivity variation is large depending on the type of material used, especially for concrete brick. In general, the brick with lesser thickness has lower conductivity as compared to those having higher thickness. However, the effect of brick length on equivalent thermal conductivity is insignificant. The economic analysis showed that the insulated clay brick type 16 is the most economical brick among the types of brick studied. Moreover, it is worthwhile to note that the net present value of normal concrete brick (type 19) is reduced by about 45% by making the concrete brick lightweight (type 20).
Measurable values, numbers and fundamental physical constants: Is the Boltzmann constant Kb a fundamental physical constant?
Authors: Bormashenko Edward , Sheshnev Avigdor
Published: January 2010

The status of fundamental physical constants is discussed. The nature of fundamental physical constants is cleared up, based on the analysis of the Boltzmann constant. A new definition of measurable values, 'mathematical' and 'physical' numbers and fundamental physical constants is proposed. Mathematical numbers are defined as values insensitive to the choice of both units and frames of reference, whereas 'physical numbers' are dimensionless values, insensitive to transformations of units and sensitive to the transformations of the frames of reference. Fundamental constants are classified as values sensitive to transformations of the units and insensitive to transformations of the frames of reference. It is supposed that a fundamental physical constant necessarily allows diminishing the number of independent etalons in a system of units.
Educational effectiveness: Key findings
Authors: Teodorovic Jelena
Published: January 2010

This paper reviews recent and advanced studies on educational effectiveness. Section on integrated school effectiveness research is followed by a section on conceptually integrated models. The subsequent two sections focus on more methodological limitations of past research: the failure to accommodate the hierarchical nature of schooling and the inability to capture teacher effects. Finally, the last section sums up all relevant facts and research strands.
Quality of social relations and school achievement of students of different age
Authors: Spasenovic Vera
Published: January 2010

Social relations between students and their peers have not been studied more extensively in our expert scientific literature, and performed studies have rarely focused on the association between these relations and school achievement. Comparison of the quality of social relations and school achievement at different ages has been especially neglected, which is the basic goal of this paper. The sample comprised 235 fifth-grade students and 230 eighth-grade students from nine (18 in total) classes in each grade, selected from four schools from the narrow Belgrade area. Besides students, research also comprised their class teachers, whose number corresponded to the number of classes that students came from (18). Twenty-seven variables were entered in correlation matrix for fourth- and eighth-grade students, and factor analysis yielded nine factors, which were only slightly different between the two ages. In both cases, acceptance by peers and orientation towards peers had the biggest importance in explaining the total variability. The factors in multiple logistic regression which determined the school achievement of fifth-graders to the largest extent were their acceptance, parents' characteristics (educational level and employment) and social adaptation. When it comes to eighth-grade students, educational level of parents and social adaptation are directly correlated with school success, and aggressiveness is inversely correlated with this variable.
Influence of different modalities of cooperative work forms on adopting declarative and procedural knowledge in students
Authors: Miscevic-Kadijevic Gordana
Published: January 2010

The majority of papers on cooperative learning so far have discussed the variables of affective domain, and research within the cognitive domain, especially when it comes to different forms of knowledge, has not been conducted very much. Within the cognitive-developmental approach, Piaget's genetic-epistemological theory and Vygotsky's socio-cultural theory have the biggest importance for understanding cooperative learning and the topic we deal with. The influence of the three models of cooperative work in the instruction of Basic Science and Social Studies on the adoption of declarative and procedural knowledge of students is experimentally tested in the paper. The basis for formation of the applied models is grouping students within small homogenous, i.e. heterogeneous groups. The sample of respondents consisted of 259 students from 11 classes of the fourth grade of primary school. The experiment with parallel groups was applied. The results indicated that in students from experimental group the adoption of declarative and procedural knowledge in final measurement was better than in students from the control group, as well as that in final measurement there were no statistically significant differences with respect to adoption of the studied knowledge among the three subgroups in which different cooperative work models were applied. The obtained findings indicated that cooperative instruction yields good results when its theoretical assumptions are carefully operationalised, along with exhibiting patience and gradualism in working with students previously prepared for cooperation with peers.
The analysis of actual and symbolic models of secondary school students in Serbia
Authors: Stepanovic Ivana , Pavlovic-Babic Dragica , Krnjaic Zora
Published: January 2010

This paper deals with role models of secondary school students in Serbia. In the course of adolescence, there is a gradual separation from parental figures, and other persons become role models for behavior. For that reason, secondary school population is of interest when analyzing this phenomenon, particularly bearing in mind that role models influence not only social, but also other aspects of development. We analyzed role models from students' personal (actual models) and public life (symbolic models). The main aim was to determine who their actual and symbolic models are, and why secondary school students look up to them. Based on the data on secondary school students' actual models, it is possible to identify who important persons from their milieu are and why they are important to them. The data about the categories in which symbolic models can be divided, as well as about their occurrence, indicate the young people's system of values in these analyses. The sample comprises 2426 students from 26 schools in 9 Serbian towns. Actual and symbolic models were examined in separate questions, where students were asked to name up to three people from their private life or the world of celebrities that they look up to. 53,9% of students named their actual models, the most common being their mothers. Nearly half the examinees (49,3%) stated their symbolic models are public figures. Most symbolic models are from the world of show-business. The results show that parental figures remain the models of behavior throughout adolescence. The data about the categories of symbolic models show the young are drawn to the world of entertainment and indicate a weak role of schools as a potential source of models in the fields of science and culture who would promote cognitive values.
Stimulation of development of notion about syntax in pre-school children
Authors: Nikolic Mirjana
Published: January 2010

This paper presents a part of the research the goal of which was to study the notion about syntax as one of the meta-linguistic abilities that contributes to adoption of reading. Research comprised two hundred children of pre-school age, divided into two groups, balanced according to gender, intelligence and socioeconomic status. The research was conducted by an experimental method test-retest. In the initial measuring, experimental and control group were given the list comprising three kinds of experimental tasks for determining the level of development of notion about syntax, constructed by the author of the research. Experimental program consisted of tasks for stimulation of development of notion about syntax, which children practiced in the course of ten days (up to 30 minutes a day), with the help of previously trained pre-school teachers. After the ten-day training, final measuring in both groups was performed in both groups of respondents, by parallel form of tasks. The goal of the research was to determine whether it is possible to encourage the development of notion about syntax in children of pre-school age by systematic practice. The results of final measuring indicate that both in experimental and control group there have been significant improvements with respect to development of notion about syntax, and that the number of answers in which judgement was based on the semantic criterion (experience and meaning) was significantly reduced. In making judgements based on consequences (content of the sentence points to something which is a good or not a good thing to do, moral or immoral) there were no significant differences in the final compared to the initial measuring in both groups. Significant differences in retest were found in making judgements based on meaning. The mere experience with test material at pre-school age brings about the improvement of the notion about language, and practice contributes considerably to shifting the focus from the semantic to the grammatical criterion of judgement.
Curriculum as a support to investigative approach in learning chemistry
Authors: Tomasevic Biljana , Trivic Dragica , Bojovic Snezana
Published: January 2010

One of the main reasons for low achievement of our students in international tests is the lack of functional, applicable knowledge. Formation of such knowledge demands changing the usual way of implementation of instruction (transfer of ready-made knowledge) to learning through performing simple research and practical work. Considering the fact that instruction, as an organised process, takes place in frameworks determined in advance, which are arranged and regulated on the national level by curricula, it is assumed that this kind of approach must originate precisely from curricula, which is not the case in our educational practice. The goal of this paper was to determine the way in which this kind of approach in instruction and learning of chemistry can be supported by the curriculum, in order for it to become a part of regular teaching practice on the national level. The paper presents how different structural components of curricula from eight different educational systems (four European countries, one Asian country, two American federal states and one Canadian province) are used to promote and support the importance of research work in instruction and learning of chemistry. The curricula from Slovenia, England, Denmark, Malta, Singapore, North Carolina, Utah and Ontario were analyzed in order to determine the kind of information they offer within structural components and accordingly, the way in which each component promotes research approach to learning chemistry, how it guides the teacher in planning such activities in the classroom, organization and performing instruction, monitoring and evaluating students' achievements.
Influence of environmental factors on intellectual efficiency of pre-school children
Authors: Jovanovic Veljko , Smederevac Snezana , Tovilovic Snezana
Published: January 2010

The basic goal of this research was to study the influence of environmental factors on intellectual efficiency of pre-school children. Research participants were 149 children (52 Roma, 48 non-Roma children of average socioeconomic status and 49 children of low socioeconomic status), of the average age of 81 months. Data were collected during maturity evaluation for school in primary schools in Sabac and Sremska Mitrovica. Children's intellectual abilities were assessed by the School Maturity Test, and the data on socioeconomic status and educational climate were obtained from parents, by administering the Questionnaire for collecting data about the child and the family and Interview with the parent. Results of covariance analysis indicated that the quality of stimulation, parental ambitions and financial status of the family have the biggest effect on intellectual achievement of children. Poorer cognitive efficiency is demonstrated by children who grow up in poverty and non-stimulative environment, and whose parents have low ambitions regarding their child's education. When these variables are controlled, there are no differences between groups in either of cognitive functions. The abilities of visual and motor coordination and attention proved out to be the most sensitive to the influences of environmental factors. The results indicate that environmental factors have a pervasive effect, since, besides the influence on manipulative abilities, they also determine achievement on tests used to estimate verbal abilities.
Effects of Antecedent GABAA Activation With Alprazolam on Counterregulatory Responses to Hypoglycemia in Healthy Humans
Authors: Hedrington Maka S. , Farmerie Stephnie , Ertl Andrew C. , Wang Zhihui , Tate Donna B. , Davis Stephen N.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

To date, there are no data investigating the effects of GABAA activation on counterregulatory responses during repeated hypoglycemia in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of prior GABAA activation using the benzodiazepine alprazolam on the neuroendocrine and autonomic nervous system (ANS) and metabolic counterregulatory responses during next-day hypoglycemia in healthy humans.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Twenty-eight healthy individuals (14 male and 14 female, age 27 ± 6 years, BMI 24 ± 3 kg/m2, and A1C 5.2 ± 0.1%) participated in four randomized, double-blind, 2-day studies. Day 1 consisted of either morning and afternoon 2-h hyperinsulinemic euglycemia or 2-h hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (2.9 mmol/l) with either 1 mg alprazolam or placebo administered 30 min before the start of each clamp. Day 2 consisted of a single-step hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamp of 2.9 mmol/l.

RESULTS

Despite similar hypoglycemia (2.9 ± 1 mmol/l) and insulinemia (672 ± 108 pmol/l) during day 2 studies, GABAA activation with alprazolam during day 1 euglycemia resulted in significant blunting (P < 0.05) of ANS (epinephrine, norepinephrine, muscle sympathetic nerve activity, and pancreatic polypeptide), neuroendocrine (glucagon and growth hormone), and metabolic (glucose kinetics, lipolysis, and glycogenolysis) counterregulatory responses. GABAA activation with alprazolam during prior hypoglycemia caused further significant (P < 0.05) decrements in subsequent glucagon, growth hormone, pancreatic polypeptide, and muscle sympathetic nerve activity counterregulatory responses.

CONCLUSIONS

Alprazolam activation of GABAA pathways during day 1 hypoglycemia can play an important role in regulating a spectrum of key physiologic responses during subsequent (day 2) hypoglycemia in healthy man.
The Implicit Prejudiced Attitudes of Teachers
Authors: van den Bergh Linda , Denessen Eddie , Hornstra Lisette , Voeten Marinus , Holland Rob W.
Published: January 2010

Ethnic minority students are at risk for school failure and show a heightened susceptibility to negative teacher expectancy effects. In the present study, whether the prejudiced attitudes of teachers relate to their expectations and the academic achievement of their students is examined. The prejudiced attitudes of 41 elementary school teachers were assessed via self-report and an Implicit Association Test. Teacher expectations and achievement scores for 434 students were obtained. Multilevel analyses showed no relations with the self-report measure of prejudiced attitudes. The implicit measure of teacher prejudiced attitudes, however, was found to explain differing ethnic achievement gap sizes across classrooms via teacher expectations. The results of this study also suggest that the use of implicit attitude measures may be important in educational research.
Exploring Sources of Reading Comprehension Difficulties Among Language Minority Learners and Their Classmates in Early Adolescence
Authors: Lesaux Nonie K. , Kieffer Michael J.
Published: January 2010

This study explores the nature of reading comprehension difficulties among early adolescent language minority (LM) learners and native English speakers in urban schools. Sixth-grade students (399 LM learners, 182 native English speakers) were screened for difficulties, using a standardized measure of reading comprehension. Of these, 262 students (201 LM learners, 61 native English speakers) with a score at or below the 35th percentile were administered measures of oral language and reading. More LM learners than their peers were classified as struggling readers (60% vs. 40%, respectively). However, latent class analysis demonstrated that the two populations were evenly distributed among three skill profiles of struggling readers. Despite relative differences in word reading accuracy and fluency, each profile was characterized by low vocabulary knowledge. The majority of struggling readers were found to have developed basic fluency skills. The findings demonstrate the need for middle schools to identify why students are having comprehension difficulties and to target instruction to meet their specific needs, given the wide variation in the struggling reader population. Moreover, they suggest that treating LM learners as a separate group based on their status as second-language learners may not be appropriate.
Environmental tobacco smoke exposure and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: SALMASI GISELLE , GRADY ROSHEEN , JONES JENNIFER , MCDONALD SARAH D. ,   On behalf of the Knowledge Synthesis Group*
Published: January 2010

Background. While active maternal tobacco smoking has well established adverse perinatal outcomes, the effects of passive maternal smoking, also called environmental tobacco exposure (ETS), are less well studied and less consistent. Objective: To determine to the effect of ETS on perinatal outcomes. Search strategy. Medline, EMBASE and reference lists were searched. Selection criteria. Studies comparing ETS‐exposed pregnant women with those unexposed which adequately addressed active maternal smoking. Data collection and analysis. Two reviewers independently assessed titles, abstracts, full studies, extracted data and assessed quality. Dichotomous data were pooled using odds ratios (OR) and continuous data with weighted mean differences (WMD) using a random effects model. Main results. Seventy‐six articles were included with a total of 48,439 ETS‐exposed women and 90,918 unexposed women. ETS‐exposed infants weighed less [WMD –60 g, 95% confidence interval (CI) –80 to –39 g], with a trend towards increased low birthweight (LBW, < 2,500 g; RR 1.16; 95% CI 0.99–1.36), although the duration of gestation and preterm delivery were similar (WMD 0.02 weeks, 95% CI –0.09 to 0.12 weeks and RR 1.07; 95% CI 0.93–1.22). ETS‐exposed infants had longer infant lengths (1.75 cm; 95% CI 1.37–2.12 cm), increased risks of congenital anomalies (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.03–1.34) and a trend towards smaller head circumferences (–0.11 cm; 95% CI –0.22 to 0.01 cm). Conclusions. ETS‐exposed women have increased risks of infants with lower birthweight, congenital anomalies, longer lengths, and trends towards smaller head circumferences and LBW.
The imaging of stab injuries
Authors: de Vries Coert S. , Africa Mogoeemang , Gebremariam Fekade A. , van Rensburg J. Janse , Otto Susan F. , Potgieter Henrik F.
Published: January 2010

In the trauma unit of the Bloemfontein Academic Complex, the total number of stab wounds seen represents approximately 70.5% of penetrating injuries, which is 6.4% of 5004 trauma cases seen in a period of 1 year. The other cases are gunshot wounds and pedestrian or motor vehicle accidents. Specific guidelines and protocols are followed for penetrating trauma management. All imaging modalities are utilized, with chest radiography the mainstay of thoracic imaging in patients having sustained sharp penetrating chest injuries. Computed tomography (CT) is being used more frequently as the primary imaging modality in the evaluation of hemodynamically stable patients with penetrating injuries. The improved speed of data acquisition and superior image reconstruction of multidetector CT (MDCT) has further driven this change in imaging approach. Although digital subtraction angiography (DSA) has been the reference standard for the diagnosis of traumatic vascular injuries, it is giving way to faster, less invasive, and less personnel-intensive imaging techniques, e.g., MDCT angiography. Given the fact that we work in an academic environment and that we have a dedicated interventional unit, arteriography is still frequently performed and still has its place as the “gold standard” in the diagnosis of vascular injuries. Penetrating chest injuries suspected of traversing the mediastinum or extending near the posterior mediastinal structures dictate esophageal and tracheal evaluation. Although radiology has a role to play, direct visualization (esophagoscopy, bronchoscopy) remains the most reliable method of excluding injuries to these structures. Transthoracic ultrasound (echocardiography) has become indispensable in helping to evaluate injuries to the heart and the ascending and descending aortas. More recent work has demonstrated that ultrasonography can also be used to detect hemothoraces and pneumothoraces with accuracy.
Intramuscular manifestation of non-hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma: Prevalence, clinical signs, and computed tomography features
Authors: Surov Alexey , Holzhausen Hans-Jürgen , Arnold Dirk , Schmidt Jörg , Spielmann Rolf-Peter , Behrmann Curd
Published: January 2010

Background: Intramuscular manifestations of malignant immunoproliferative diseases (IMMID) are very rare.

Purpose: To determine the prevalence and the clinical features of IMMID in a large series of patients, and to analyze their radiological appearances.

Material and Methods: Between 1997 and 2007, 20 patients with IMMID (non-Hodgkin lymphoma [NHL], n=14, and myeloma, n=6) were identified. All patients underwent computed tomography (CT). In five cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was additionally performed.

Results: Clinically, 16 patients presented with local pain and soft-tissue swelling. In four patients, IMMID was found incidentally. The most common site was the erector spinae muscle, followed by the iliopsoas and pelvic muscles. In 13 cases of IMMID, diffuse mass-forming muscle infiltration was found. Focal intramuscular masses were identified in seven cases.

Conclusion: NHL mostly manifests as diffuse muscle enlargement, whereas myelomas form focal intramuscular masses. Nevertheless, CT and MR appearances are nonspecific and can be misinterpreted as muscle sarcoma or inflammatory disease. Although rare, muscle involvement should be considered in the differential diagnosis of muscle disorders in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma.
Book Review
Authors: Revheim Mona-Elisabeth
Published: January 2010

Computed Tomography: Physical Principles, Clinical Applications, and Quality Control. Third edition. Edited by E. Seeram. London: Saunders/Elsevier, 2009. 536 pages, 488 fi gures. ISBN: 978-1-4160-2895-6. Price (paperback): USD 55.82
Feasibility of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) follow-up as the primary imaging modality after coiling of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Bakker Nicolaas A. , Westerlaan Henriette E. , Metzemaekers Jan D. M. , van Dijk J. Marc C. , Eshghi Omid S. , Mooij Jan Jakob A. , Groen Rob J. M.
Published: January 2010

Background: Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is still regarded as the gold standard for detecting residual flow in treated aneurysms. Recent reports have also shown excellent results from magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging. This is an important observation, since DSA is associated with a risk of medical complications, is time consuming, and is more expensive.

Purpose: To determine whether MRA could replace conventional DSA and serve as the primary postinterventional imaging modality in patients with coiled intracranial aneurysms.

Material and Methods: We studied a prospectively enrolled cohort of 190 patients treated endovascularly for a first-ruptured and/or unruptured intracranial aneurysm between January 2004 and December 2008. The imaging protocol included a 1.5T time-of-flight (TOF) MRA and a DSA at 3 months (on the same day) and, depending on comparability, a 1.5T TOF-MRA or DSA 1 year after treatment. All images were evaluated by a multidisciplinary panel.

Results: In 141/190 patients, both an MRA and DSA were performed after 3-month follow-up. In 2/141 patients (1.4%), (small) neck remnants gave false-negative MRA results. In one patient (0.7%), this led to additional neurosurgical clipping of the aneurysm. In 25/141 patients, future follow-up (>3 months) consisted of DSA because of various reasons. In 24/25 of these patients, primary MRA images alone would invariably have led to additional DSA imaging.

Conclusion: The present study shows that 1.5T TOF-MRA is a feasible primary follow-up modality after coiling of intracranial aneurysms. Given our data, we now suggest that, in every patient with a coiled intracranial aneurysm, the first follow-up, 3 months after coiling, should be an MRA study. Only when this MRA is inconclusive (e.g., because of coil artifacts), or in the case of suspicion of recanalization, should DSA be performed additionally.
A review of new developments in the Friedel–Crafts alkylation – From green chemistry to asymmetric catalysis
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Nachtsheim Boris J
Published: January 2010

The development of efficient Friedel–Crafts alkylations of arenes and heteroarenes using only catalytic amounts of a Lewis acid has gained much attention over the last decade. The new catalytic approaches described in this review are favoured over classical Friedel–Crafts conditions as benzyl-, propargyl- and allyl alcohols, or styrenes, can be used instead of toxic benzyl halides. Additionally, only low catalyst loadings are needed to provide a wide range of products. Following a short introduction about the origin and classical definition of the Friedel–Crafts reaction, the review will describe the different environmentally benign substrates which can be applied today as an approach towards greener processes. Additionally, the first diastereoselective and enantioselective Friedel–Crafts-type alkylations will be highlighted.
Academician Milko Matičetov’s Ninetieth Birthday
Authors: Kropej Monika
Published: January 2010

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Análisis cinético y estadístico de la precipitación en una aleación de Cu-0,49Co-0,44Ti, mediante microcalorimetría y medidas de microdureza
Authors: Donoso E. , Díaz G.
Published: January 2010

Mediante calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC) se estudió la cinética de precipitación de átomos de cobalto y titanio a partir de una solución sólida de Cu-0,49Co-0,44Ti, templada desde 1.173 K. El análisis de las curvas calorimétricas muestran la presencia de una reacción exotérmica la cual se atribuye a la formación de partículas de CoTi en la matriz de cobre. La energía de activación de la reacción fue estimada a partir del método de Kissinger modificado. Los parámetros cinéticos fueron calculados mediante el formalismo de Johnson- Mehl-Avrami. Por otra parte, se efectuó un análisis estadístico del proceso de precipitación, mediante medidas de microdureza Vickers, empleando una función de distribución de probabilidad deWeibull. Se estimaron los parámetros deWeibull mediante el método de mínimos cuadrados. La bondad de ajuste se analizó considerando el test de chi-cuadrado con un nivel de confianza del 95 %. A medida que se incrementó el tiempo de envejecimiento, para igual temperatura de recocido, incrementó el valor del módulo deWeibull, lo cual puede atribuirse a la precipitación de la fase CoTi.
A NOTE ON PRODENIA ORNITHOGALLI GN. (LEPIDOPTERA, PHALAENIDAE)
Authors: McDunnough J.
Published: January 2010

In the ‘Contributions’ Vol. V (2) 80/1, Benjamin has attempted to straighten out the synonymy of this species and the allied praefica Grt. Unfortunately, after carefully checking over the material in our Collection, I find that he has only added to the nomenclatorial confusion.
INFLUENCE OF WATER CURRENT ON CASE WEIGHT IN LARVAE OF THE CADDISFLY,GOERA CALCARATABANKS
Authors: Webster Dwight A. , Webster Priscilla C.
Published: January 2010

The larvae of certain Trichoptera are known to fashion into their cases structures to which a “ballast” function has been ascribed (Stuck, 1900; Buchner, 1905; Rousseau, 1921; Lloyd. 1921; Needham and Lloyd, 1937). Of forms living in the Ithaca, New York, region the cases ofStenophylax scabripennis, Halesus guttifer, Neophylax, andGoera calcarataare offered as examples. The term “ballast” has been used to imply a balancing as well as a weighting purpose depending upon the particular species under discussion. Rousseau (1921) in describing the general types of caddis cases says “…. in the absence of current, they (the cases) do not in general offer such adaptations as those which we find in the larvae living in moving water.
NEW DESCRIPTIONS OF LARVAE OF FOREST INSECTS, VI, SEMIOTHISA, PARAPHIA, PROTOBOARMIA (LEPIDOPTERA, GEOMETRIDAE)
Authors: McGuffin W. C.
Published: January 2010

Egg: Ovate in shape, bluish green in colour, the surface divided by reticulations into small hexagonal areas. Laid singly on the needles of host tree.

First Instar: Head width 0.23 mm. Body 2.0 mm. in length and 0.23 mm. in width Brownish green body with light brown head.

Second Instar: Head width 0.5 mm. Body 4.6 mm. in length and 0.5 mm. in width. Body lined alternately with green and light green stripes. Spiracular line greenish white. Head brownish green.
NEW GENERA OF NORTH AMERICAN MUSCOID DIPTERA
Authors: Reinhard H. J.
Published: January 2010

The following descriptions of five new genera and species of Tachinidae are based upon material received from several sources as indicated below. Most of the species have been standing in my collection for a number of years pending the accumulation of longer series. My thanks are due A. R. Brooks for the loan of some additional material recently discovered in the extensive tachinid collections in the Canadian Department of Agriculture. The type or paratype specimens, of the two species represented by this material, are returned for deposit in the Canadian Collection, as detailed under the descriptions.
TWO NEW SUBSPECIES OF INCISALIA (LEPIDOPTERA, LYCAENIDAE)
Authors: Clench Harry K.
Published: January 2010

Through the kindness of Mr. Don B. Stallings, of Caldwell, Kansas, the author received for examination a small series of an Incisalia that appears to represent a race of the eastern I. henrici Grote and Robinson. This series was later augmented by about 40 more specimens from Mr. Stallings and 32 from an adjacent locality taken and sent by Mr. Robert Whittaker, of Eureka, Kansas. With this series it was possible to draw up a good description of the subspecies and to obtain quite accurate ideas as to the extent of its variation. In addition to this material, both Mr. Stallings and Mr. Whittaker sent further specimens for comparison, for which many thanks are due.
TWO UNNOTICED GENERIC NAMES IN THE SPHECOID WASPS, WITH NOTES ON OTHERS (HYMENOPTERA, ACULEATA)
Authors: Pate V. S. L.
Published: January 2010

Two hitherto unnoticed generic names in the sphecoid wasps have recently come to my attention. Although the first, Dryphus, is clearly a synonym, as may also the second, Stercobata, be, nevertheless, since both will preoccupy any future usage of these names far valid generic entities, they are noted here in order that they may eventually find their way into the proper universal lists of generic names of animals.

Notes on several previously known generic or subgeneric names are appended at the end.
TECHNIQUES FOR THE STUDY OF INSECT CHROMOSOMES
Authors: Smith Stanley G.
Published: January 2010

The present paper is concerned solely with methods of studying the chromosomes, their number, morphology, and behaviour, in insects. Much has already been written on general cytological techniques used in the study of animals and plants (1, 2, 3 and 4) but no special treatment regarding insects has as yet appeared. The techniques outlined in many standard text books are largely obsolete, and reprints of current improvements are frequently not available in the specialised entomological library. Therefore a review of the procedures commonly followed may not be out of place as a guide to the non-specialist.
A NEW CINYGMULA FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA (EPHEMEROPTERA)
Authors: McDunnough J.
Published: January 2010

Male. Body almost entirely brown with the meso- and metathoracic tergites deep pitch-black. The three posterior abdominal segments are more opaque, somewhat deeper brown and show traces of geminate dorsal lines; ventrally these segments are paler.
NOTES ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF PLEBEIUS SCUDDERI EMPETRI FRMN. AND P. SCUDDERI ASTER EDW. (LEPIDOPTERA, LYCAENIDAE)
Authors: Freeman T. N.
Published: January 2010

Plebeius scudderi empetri Frmn. was described from material taken in early July, 1936, in an Empetrum bog not far from the town of Baddeck on Cape Breton Island. Later in July of that year several similar bogs were observed in various parts of Nova Scotia, but with the exception of a single worn specimen captured in the Cape Canso region, no specimens of empteri were observed. This was thought to be due to the lateness of the season.
THE SUBARCTIC ODONATA OF NORTH AMERICA
Authors: Walker E. M.
Published: January 2010

More or less comprehensive lists have been published of the Odonata of the Canadian provinces and recently Mrs. Gloyd ('39) has brought together all the available records for Alaska, but very little has yet appeared regarding the species which inhabit the other northern parts of North America, viz., Newfoundland, Labrador and the Northwest and Yukon Territories of Canada.