bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some Studies to Establish the Reaction Mechanism for the Reduction of Iron Ore‐Graphite Composite Pellets in a Packed Bed Reactor
Authors: Chowdhury G. M. , Murmu C. S. , Roy S. K. , Roy G. G.
Published: November 2010

In this article an attempt has been made to propose a reaction mechanism for the reduction of iron ore‐graphite composite pellets in a packed bed reactor through experiments and mathematical models developed by the authors previously, along with some new supportive experimental data. A tailor made thermo‐gravimetric setup with a provision of packed bed has been developed to carry out isothermal experiments at elevated temperature and in controlled atmosphere. A kinetic model that calculates the evolution of various phases of iron oxides and a thermal model that calculates the temperature at the surface and centre of the cylindrical packed bed have been used along with experimental data under different operating conditions to formulate the reaction mechanism. It is proposed that reduction of iron ore‐graphite composite pellets in packed bed is initially heat transfer controlled and become mass transfer controlled at the later stage of reduction. The role of heat and mass transfer has been ascertained by observing the effect of C/Fe2O3 molar ratios, size of pellets, and CO gas in reactive atmosphere on the extent of reduction and the predicted temperature gradient, carbon consumption rate within the packed bed during the course of reduction.
An Insight into the Mechanism and Kinetics of Reactions In BOF Steelmaking: Theory vs Practice
Authors: Shukla A. K. , Deo B. , Millman S. , Snoeijer B. , Overbosch A. , Kapilashrami A.
Published: November 2010

A thermodynamic (equilibrium) model is developed for the BOF process. The predictions of this model show the trend of reactions when the process is considered to be at thermodynamic equilibrium. In the case of a real process, however, some tuning and adaptation becomes necessary to make more accurate predictions. A dynamic model is developed in which the kinetics of scrap dissolution is also incorporated. A comparison of the results of the equilibrium and dynamic models (made with some tuning parameters) reveals that mixing is the prime factor which can alter the course of reaction at any particular instant. Mixing is greatly affected by oxygen flow rate, lance height and the nature of scrap. The understanding of the secrets of process dynamics becomes clearer with this approach, providing a good insight into the process.
Investigation of Flow Characteristics in a Six‐Strand CC Tundish Combining Plant Measurements, Physical and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Warzecha M. , Merder T. , Pfeifer H. , Pieprzyca J.
Published: November 2010

The tundish plays a major role in the continuous casting process. The flow in a tundish has a very substantial effect on the quality of the final product and on efficient casting conditions. Efforts are being made worldwide to obtain the most favourable shape of tundish interior by using dams, weirs and gas curtains. The aim of these flow control devices is to reduce the dead zone areas and improve the conditions for the separation of non‐metallic inclusions. Numerous model studies are being carried out to explain the effect of the tundish working space shape and steel flow conditions on the inclusions floating processes. The presented article shows the results of investigations performed to obtain the mass exchange characteristics in the investigated tundish. The measurements were done directly at the steel plant during normal working conditions. By controlling the changing content of manganese in steel, the residence time distribution (RTD) characteristics were acquired. The RTD characteristics are also obtained with a water model of the tundish with dimensional scale of 1:3. Parallel to the water model, numerical simulation based on mathematical modelling of fluid flow, relying on the system of differential equations, is employed in the research work. Numerical simulations were carried out with the finite‐volume commercial code FLUENT using the standard k‐ε turbulence model. The primary purpose of the investigations carried out is to present the characteristics describing the transitory zone in a six‐strand tundish. It is shown that the F‐curve, describing the transitory zone, can be obtained by using different measurement techniques. Tracer concentration characteristics for the model of tundish obtained from both modelling techniques ‐ physical as well as numerical ‐ are very similar.
Gestational age‐ and estimated fetal weight‐adjusted reference ranges for myocardial tissue Doppler indices at 24–41 weeks' gestation
Authors: Comas M. , Crispi F. , Gómez O. , Puerto B. , Figueras F. , Gratacós E.
Published: November 2010

Objectives

To construct gestational age (GA)‐ and estimated fetal weight (EFW)‐adjusted reference ranges for tissue Doppler cardiac function parameters from 24 to 41 weeks' gestation.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional observational study involving 213 singleton pregnancies between 24 and 41 weeks' gestation. Myocardial peak velocities and myocardial performance index (MPI′) were measured by tissue Doppler ultrasonography (values indicated by ‘prime’) in the left and right annulus and interventricular septum. Left and right atrioventricular parameters were also measured by conventional Doppler and ratios between the values found by the two methods calculated. Regression analysis was used to determine GA‐ and EFW‐adjusted reference ranges and to construct nomograms for tissue Doppler parameters.

Results

All myocardial peak velocities, left and right E′/A′ and left MPI′ showed a progressive increase with GA. In contrast, left and right E/E′ showed a progressive decline. Septal E′/A′, and right and septal MPI′ remained constant. Myocardial peak velocities showed a progressive increase with increasing fetal weight.

Conclusions

Normal data of fetal myocardial peak velocities, their ratios and MPI′ by tissue Doppler adjusted by GA and EFW are provided. The reported reference values may be useful in research or clinical studies and can be used in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐Level CXCR4 Expression Correlates with Brain‐Specific Metastasis of Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Gang , Wang Zhou , Liu Xiang‐yan , Liu Fan‐ying
Published: November 2010

Background

Brain‐specific metastasis occurs frequently in lung cancer, and the mechanism is still unclear. The present study was designed to investigate the correlation between CXCR4 expression and brain‐specific metastasis of non‐small cell lung cancer.

Methods

The brain metastatic tumors and lung cancer tissues from 32 patients with solitary brain metastasis of non‐small cell lung cancer (M1 group), who underwent combined surgical treatment from January 1998 to June 2008, and 32 paired patients without distant metastasis (M0 group) and 30 patients with primary brain tumor, were examined by immunohistochemistry to detect the expression of CXCR4 protein. The difference of CXCR4 expression was compared by the McNemar χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test. Estimation of survival was calculated with the Kaplan–Meier method, and the statistical differences were analyzed with the log‐rank test.

Results

Overexpression of CXCR4 protein was observed in 29 (90.6%) M1 non‐small cell lung cancers and in all (100%) brain metastatic tumors, which was significantly higher than that in the paired M0 non‐small cell lung cancer and the primary brain tumors, respectively (p = 0.000). The 3‐ and 5‐year cumulative survival rates of patients with solitary brain metastasis of lung cancer were 21.9 and 12.5%, significantly lower than the corresponding survival rates of M0 group patients (p = 0.005).

Conclusions

CXCR4 protein was highly overexpressed in M1 non‐small cell lung cancer and brain metastatic tumors, which indicated that high‐level CXCR4 expression correlates with brain‐specific metastasis of non‐small cell lung cancer.
Evaluation of Trauma and Critical Care Training Courses on the Knowledge and Confidence of Participants in Kenya and Zambia
Authors: MacLeod Jana B. A. , Okech Moses , Labib Mohammed , Aphivantrakul Paul , Lupasha Emanual , Nthele Mzaza
Published: November 2010

Background

Trained health‐care personnel are essential for improved outcomes for injured and critically ill patients. The highest injury‐related mortality is seen in sub‐Saharan Africa, where there is a paucity of skilled personnel. Therefore, the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (COSECSA) along with Emory University provided an acute trauma care (ATC) and fundamental critical care support course (FCCS). This study evaluates the impact of American‐derived courses on the knowledge and confidence of participants from resource‐limited countries.

Methods

Courses were held in Lusaka, Zambia, and Nakuru, Kenya. Participants were COSECSA trainees and personnel from local institutions. The evaluation used a pre‐/postcourse multiple‐choice exam for knowledge acquisition and a pre‐/postcourse questionnaire for confidence assessment. Confidence was measured using a 5‐point Likert score, with 5 being the highest level of confidence. Confidence or self‐reported efficacy is correlated with increased performance of new skills.

Results

There were 75 participants (median age = 31 years, 67% male). Three‐quarters of the participants reported no prior specific training in either trauma or critical care. Knowledge increased from an average of 51 to 63.3% (p = 0.002) overall, with a 21.7% gain for those who scored in the lowest quartile. Confidence increased from pre‐ to postcourse on all measures tested: 22 clinical situations (10 trauma, 9 critical care, 3 either) and 15 procedures (p < 0.001 for all measures both individually and aggregated, Wilcoxon rank sum test). The strongest absolute increase in confidence, as well as the largest number of participants who reported any increase, were all in the procedures of cricothyroidotomy [median: pre = 3 (IQR: 2‐3) to post = 5 (IQR: 4‐5)], DPL [median: pre = 3 (IQR: 2‐4) to post = 5 (IQR: 4‐5)], and needle decompression [median: pre = 3 (IQR: 3‐4) to post = 5 (IQR: 5‐5)].

Conclusions

Participants from resource‐limited countries benefit from ATC/FCCS courses as demonstrated by increased knowledge and confidence across all topics presented. However, the strongest increase in confidence was in performing life‐saving procedures. Therefore, future courses should emphasize essential procedures, reduce didactics, and link knowledge acquisition to skill‐based teaching.
Patterns of Injury and Violence in Yaoundé Cameroon: An Analysis of Hospital Data
Authors: Juillard Catherine , Etoundi Mballa Georges Alain , Bilounga Ndongo Chancelline , Stevens Kent A. , Hyder Adnan A.
Published: November 2010

Background

Injuries are quickly becoming a leading cause of death globally, disproportionately affecting sub‐Saharan Africa, where reports on the epidemiology of injuries are extremely limited. Reports on the patterns and frequency of injuries are available from Cameroon are also scarce. This study explores the patterns of trauma seen at the emergency ward of the busiest trauma center in Cameroon’s capital city.

Materials and methods

Administrative records from January 1, 2007, through December 31, 2007, were retrospectively reviewed; information on age, gender, mechanism of injury, and outcome was abstracted for all trauma patients presenting to the emergency ward. Univariate analysis was performed to assess patterns of injuries in terms of mechanism, date, age, and gender. Bivariate analysis was used to explore potential relationships between demographic variables and mechanism of injury.

Results

A total of 6,234 injured people were seen at the Central Hospital of Yaoundé’s emergency ward during the year 2007. Males comprised 71% of those injured, and the mean age of injured patients was 29 years (SD = 14.9). Nearly 60% of the injuries were due to road traffic accidents, 46% of which involved a pedestrian. Intentional injuries were the second most common mechanism of injury (22.5%), 55% of which involved unarmed assault. Patients injured in falls were more likely to be admitted to the hospital (p < 0.001), whereas patients suffering intentional injuries and bites were less likely to be hospitalized (p < 0.001). Males were significantly more likely to be admitted than females (p < 0.001)

Discussion

Patterns in terms of age, gender, and mechanism of injury are similar to reports from other countries from the same geographic region, but the magnitude of cases reported is high for a single institution in an African city the size of Yaoundé. As the burden of disease is predicted to increase dramatically in sub‐Saharan Africa, immediate efforts in prevention and treatment in Cameroon are strongly warranted.
Clinical Value of Using Ultrasound to Assess Calcification Patterns in Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Lu Zhaohui , Mu Yiming , Zhu Haiqing , Luo Yukun , Kong Qinglong , Dou Jingtao , Lu Juming
Published: November 2010

Background

Differentiating between benign and malignant thyroid nodules is important for providing appropriate treatment. In the present study we examined the clinical usefulness of ultrasound in examining calcification patterns in thyroid nodules, and thus predict malignancy.

Methods

The records of 1,498 Chinese patients who underwent thyroidectomy for nodular thyroid disease were retrospectively examined. All patients underwent thyroid ultrasound within 1 month before surgery. Calcification patterns in thyroid nodules were examined, and tissue samples were analyzed to determine a pathological diagnosis. Calcifications were defined as macrocalcifications, microcalcifications, rim calcifications, or isolated calcifications.

Results

A total of 2,122 thyroid nodules were examined, and 259 nodules (12.2%) were found to be malignant. Papillary carcinoma accounted for 85.3% of all malignancies. The majority of benign lesions were nodular goiters. Calcification was detected in 49.6% of malignant nodules and 15.7% of benign nodules. Microcalcifications were significantly more common in malignant nodules as compared to benign nodules (33.7 vs. 6.4%; P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of microcalcifications for predicting malignancy were 33.7 and 93.6%, respectively, while the positive and negative likelihood ratios were 42.0 and 91.1%, respectively.

Conclusions

Calcifications, as detected by ultrasonography, are evident in benign and malignant thyroid nodules. Although microcalcifications are more common in malignant thyroid nodules than in benign ones, the clinical value of using the presence of microcalcifications alone for predicting malignancy is limited.
Mucin 1 and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C Expression Correlates with Lymph Node Metastatic Recurrence in Patients with N0 Esophageal Cancer After Ivor‐Lewis Esophagectomy
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Gang , Wang Zhou , Liu Xiang‐Yan , Liu Fan‐Ying
Published: November 2010

Background

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the risk factors associated with lymph node metastatic recurrence in patients with N0 esophageal cancer after Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomy based on the detection of Mucin 1 mRNA and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) C mRNA.

Methods

The subjects were 82 patients with pN0 esophageal cancer who underwent Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomy with two‐field lymph node dissection from January 2001 to January 2005. A total of 501 lymph nodes obtained from these patients were re‐evaluated by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to detect mucin l (MUC1) mRNA; VEGF‐C mRNA was also detected in esophageal cancer issues by RT‐PCR. The diagnosis of lymph node micrometastasis (LNMM) was based on the detection of MUC1 mRNA. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the survival rate and lymph nodal metastatic rate, the log‐rank test was performed to compare the recurrence rate, and Cox regression multivariate analysis was performed to determine independent prognostic factors.

Results

MUC1 mRNA was detected in 29 lymph nodes from 23 patients, which accounted for 5.79% of all the 501 lymph nodes and 28.05% of all 82 patients, respectively. Vascular endothelial growth factor C mRNA was identified in esophageal cancer issues from 42 (51.22%) patients. The overall 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates of 82 patients were 78.0 and 51.2%, respectively. First recurrence exhibiting lymph nodal metastasis was recognized in 37 patients (45.1%) in the first 3 years after operation. The lymph node metastatic rate in patients in the first 3 years after operation was significantly associated with T status (p < 0.05) and the lymph node metastatic rate of the patients with LNMM was significantly higher than that of the patients without LNMM (p < 0.01). The lymph node metastatic rate of the patients with VEGF‐C mRNA expression in esophageal cancer tissues was significantly higher than that of the patients without VEGF‐C mRNA expression (p < 0.01).The results of multivariate analysis confirmed that VEGF‐C mRNA expression in esophageal cancer tissues, LNMM, and T status in patients with N0 esophageal cancer were independent relevant factors for 3‐year lymph node metastatic recurrence after Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomy.

Conclusions

Vascular endothelial growth factor C mRNA expression in esophageal cancer tissues, LNMM, and T status in patients with N0 esophageal cancer were independent risk factors for 3‐year lymph node metastatic recurrence after Ivor‐Lewis esophagectomy. Adjunctive therapy might be beneficial in controlling the locoregional recurrence and elevated healing rates for certain patients.
Therapeutic Strategy for Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma in Japan Based on a Newly Established Guideline Managed by Japanese Society of Thyroid Surgeons and Japanese Association of Endocrine Surgeons
Authors: Takami Hiroshi , Ito Yasuhiro , Okamoto Takahiro , Yoshida Akira
Published: November 2010

Background

Therapeutic strategy for patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) in Japan has differed from that in Western countries. Total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation has been a standard therapy in Western countries, while limited thyroidectomy has been widely accepted in Japan. We newly established guidelines for clinical practice in treating thyroid tumors based on evidence from previous publications and the accumulation of data from patients in Japan. We present our therapeutic recommendations for DTC patients based on these guidelines.

Methods

From the 55 clinical questions (CQ) in our guideline, we selected CQ regarding the treatment of DTC. We commented on each and compared it with the corresponding regions in Western guidelines.

Results

For papillary carcinoma, we strongly or moderately recommend total thyroidectomy for patients with tumors larger than 4 cm, clinical node metastasis, distant metastasis, or significant extrathyroid extension, while hemithyroidectomy is acceptable for T1N0M0 patients. In contrast to Western guidelines, routine central compartment dissection is recommended for papillary carcinoma in our guidelines. Completion total thyroidectomy is recommended for patients who were scheduled for hemithyroidectomy under a preoperative diagnosis of follicular neoplasm and were pathologically confirmed as having follicular carcinoma if the pathological diagnosis indicated widely invasive carcinoma or carcinoma having poorly differentiated components. RAI ablation is also recommended for DTC with aggressive clinicopathological features, but its indication is narrower than that in Western guidelines, not only because of the limitations on RAI, but also because it is our policy that patients without high‐risk features do not require RAI ablation.

Conclusion

It is important to treat DTC patients individually according to their clinicopathological features rather than uniformly. We hope that policies regarding the treatment of DTC patients in Western countries and Japan will find the optimal compromise in the future, leading to the best treatments for patients with thyroid carcinoma all over the world.
Preoperative Toll‐like Receptor Expression in Monocytes is Associated with Host Immunological Responses Following Gastrointestinal Surgery
Authors: Ono Satoshi , Tsujimoto Hironori , Hiraki Shu‐ichi , Kinoshita Manabu , Hase Kazuo
Published: November 2010

Background

The present study was designed to evaluate the relationship between preoperative Toll‐like receptor (TLR) expression in peripheral blood monocytes (PBMC) and the postoperative inflammatory cytokine secretion from PBMC, as well as the postoperative infectious complications in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods

Peripheral blood monocytes were isolated from 26 patients on the preoperative day and on postoperative day 1 (POD1). The monocytes were stained for CD14, TLR2, and TLR4 surface expression and stimulated ex vivo with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), after which the culture supernatant tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin (IL)‐1β, and interferon gamma (IFNγ) concentrations were measured in the culture supernatant. Postoperative clinical courses were monitored.

Results

There was a significant positive correlation between preoperative TLR4 expression and clinical stage in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. A significant negative correlation between preoperative TLR2 or TLR4 expression and the preoperative TNFα and IL‐1β production was found. Furthermore, there was a significant negative correlation between preoperative TLR2 or TLR4 expression and postoperative inflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusions

Preoperative high expression of TLR on monocytes reduces the capacity for LPS‐induced inflammatory cytokine production from monocytes. An analysis of preoperative TLR expression may therefore help to elucidate the systemic immunological response and the clinical course following gastrointestinal surgery.
Interference of asexual and sexual reproduction in the green hydra
Authors: Kaliszewicz Anita
Published: November 2010

The green hydra, Hydra viridissima, has three sexes: hermaphrodite, male, and female. I investigated the reproductive strategies of the green hydra and the relationship between asexual budding and sexual reproduction. The proportion of mature individuals in the asexually reproducing population increased with increasing temperature. Sexual reproduction did not interrupt asexual budding in hermaphrodites or males; sexual reproduction did interrupt asexual budding in females. Sexual reproduction also resulted in exponential population growth during the reproductive season. The number of asexual buds on each parental individual was positively correlated with the parental individual size in asexual individuals and in males. The same positive correlation was found between the number of testicles and the size of males. These correlations reflect a common tendency in asexual and sexual reproduction: larger parental individuals have a greater number of propagules or gametes. No correlation was found between size and buds or size and gonads in hermaphrodites; hermaphrodites had at most one asexual bud and were significantly larger than males, females, and asexual individuals. The larger size of hermaphrodites supports the hypothesis that producing both female and male gonads is more energetically costly than producing only one type of gamete (gonochorism).
Influence of Drop Deformability on the Stability of Decane‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Osorio Paola , Urbina‐Villalba German
Published: November 2010

Emulsion stability simulations of nondeformable and deformable droplets are used to justify the change in the number of aggregates as a function of time shown by (decane + CCl4)/water emulsions stabilized with either sodium di‐octyl‐sulfosuccinate (DOSS) or sodium oleate (NaOl). It is found that the results of the simulations depend sensitively on the value of the bending modulus B0 of the surfactant monolayer. The experimental data of DOSS and NaOl emulsions can only be accurately reproduced by assuming the occurrence of deformable droplets in both cases, along with a significant variation of B0 as a function of the salt concentration [NaCl]. Otherwise only reasonable agreement is found. In the second scenario, the rates predicted by the simulations of nondeformable droplets are closer to the experimental values of the emulsions stabilized with [NaOl] = 0.5 mM, [NaOl] = 1.0 mM, and [DOSS] = 0.42 mM. Conversely, the rates predicted by the simulations of deformable droplets are closer to the experimental data of the system containing [NaOl] = 2.0 mM.
Metabolic Effects of Krill Oil are Essentially Similar to Those of Fish Oil but at Lower Dose of EPA and DHA, in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Ulven Stine M. , Kirkhus Bente , Lamglait Amandine , Basu Samar , Elind Elisabeth , Haider Trond , Berge Kjetil , Vik Hogne , Pedersen Jan I.
Published: November 2010

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the effects of krill oil and fish oil on serum lipids and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation and to evaluate if different molecular forms, triacylglycerol and phospholipids, of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) influence the plasma level of EPA and DHA differently. One hundred thirteen subjects with normal or slightly elevated total blood cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels were randomized into three groups and given either six capsules of krill oil (N = 36; 3.0 g/day, EPA + DHA = 543 mg) or three capsules of fish oil (N = 40; 1.8 g/day, EPA + DHA = 864 mg) daily for 7 weeks. A third group did not receive any supplementation and served as controls (N = 37). A significant increase in plasma EPA, DHA, and DPA was observed in the subjects supplemented with n‐3 PUFAs as compared with the controls, but there were no significant differences in the changes in any of the n‐3 PUFAs between the fish oil and the krill oil groups. No statistically significant differences in changes in any of the serum lipids or the markers of oxidative stress and inflammation between the study groups were observed. Krill oil and fish oil thus represent comparable dietary sources of n‐3 PUFAs, even if the EPA + DHA dose in the krill oil was 62.8% of that in the fish oil.
Minimizing the Cost of Biodiesel Blends for Specified Cloud Points
Authors: Wang Paul S. , Thompson Joseph , Van Gerpen Jon
Published: November 2010

When used as a biodiesel fuel, isopropyl esters are expensive compared to the more common methyl esters. However, isopropyl esters have better cold flow properties than methyl esters, allowing the use of highly saturated feedstocks such as tallow or lard. It has not been determined if isopropyl esters can be part of an economical biodiesel (B100) blend for a specified cloud point, which allows for an objective material cost comparison. This work explores this question through the use of an empirical cloud point model that has been developed and validated. Constrained cost minimization was performed using the cloud point model and historical prices for alcohols and triglycerides. Case studies using 2003 and 2006 average prices are presented. The results indicate that an expensive component such as isopropyl ester can be part of an economical blend under the market conditions. For isopropyl esters to be feasible as an economical blend component, they have to be derived from a highly saturated feedstock that is less expensive than soybean oil by .10/lb. This price differential is most applicable to a biodiesel blend that has a cloud point between 5 and 10 °C.
Effect of Stripping Methods on the Oxidative Stability of Three Unconventional Oils
Authors: Mariod Abdalbasit , Matthäus Bertrand , Hussein Ismail H.
Published: November 2010

Stripped and non‐stripped oils from Sclerocarya birrea [marula oil (SCO)], Aspongopus viduatus [melon bug oil (MBO)] and Agonoscelis pubescens [sorghum bug oil (SBO)], traditionally used for nutritional applications in Sudan, were investigated for their fatty acid and tocopherol composition, and their oxidative stability. Three stripping methods were used, phenolic compounds extraction, silicic acid column, and aluminum oxide column. The stripping methods did not affect the fatty acid composition. Non‐stripped SCO, MBO and SBO contained oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic acids, which were not significantly (P < 0.05) different than stripped SCO, MBO and SBO. The stripping methods’ effect on the tocopherol composition of the studied oils, the total amount of tocopherol in non‐stripped oils decreased by extraction of phenolic compounds, mean that part of the tocopherols was extracted with the phenolic compounds. No traces of tocopherols were found in oils stripped using silicic and aluminum columns and the tocopherols were eliminated during the stripping processes. The stability of SCO, MBO and SBO oils was 43, 38 and 5.1 h, respectively, this stability decreased by 22.0, 37.6 and 23.5%, respectively after extraction of phenolic compounds. This stability decreased by 96.9, 98.2 and 90.2% respectively, when stripped using the aluminium column and decreased by 92.6, 96.1 and 86.3% when stripped by the silicic column. It is possible to assume that the tocopherols and phenolic compounds play a more active role in the oxidative stability of the oils than the fatty acid composition and phytosterols.
Obscure pathology of pulled elbow: Dynamic high-resolution ultrasound-assisted classification
Authors: Diab Hossam S. , Hamed Manal M. S. , Allam Yasser
Published: November 2010

Aim

Pulled elbow or nursemaid's elbow is a radial head subluxation caused by a sudden pull on the extended pronated forearm. Children with pulled elbow usually respond dramatically for reduction, yet others show delayed improvement with no clear pathologic explanation. The aim of our study is to propose an explanation for the varying clinical response after the reduction of pulled elbow aided by ultrasound classification of the underlying pathology and its impact on management.

Patients and methods

Fifty children with a mean age of 3.8 ± 1.1 (standard deviation [SD]) years with pulled elbow were scanned by static and dynamic ultrasound utilizing the other elbow as the standard. The radial annular ligament (RAL) was examined for integrity and interposition, with measurement of the radiocapitellar distance. Reduction was performed following the hyperpronation technique, and postreduction splinting was guided by ultrasound findings. Postreduction scans and 1-year follow up were performed.

Results

Of the 50 included children, 39 (78%) had intact, yet interposed annular ligament (classified as type I) and 11 (22%) had torn annular ligament (classified as type II). The latter underwent splinting for 7 days. Three out of the 50 children had recurrent subluxation and constituted false-negative cases for the detection of torn ligament and represented the reoccurrence rate of 6%. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for the ultrasound diagnosis of torn RAL were 76.9, 92.3, and 92%, respectively.

Conclusion

Pulled elbow is classified as follows: type I, with an interposed RAL, and type II, with torn ligament.
Undermining the West from Within: European Populists, the Us and Russia
Authors: Chryssogelos Angelos-Stylianos
Published: November 2010

Populist parties of the Right and Left are on the rise in Western Europe, but little has been said about their foreign policy positions. This article outlines the basic elements of the positions of some important radical Right and Left populist parties on transatlantic relations, NATO, European security and EU-Russia relations. An examination of these positions reveals that European populist parties of the Right and Left are united by a common aversion to the ongoing modernisation and liberalisation of society and the economy—and that this aversion is reflected in foreign policies that conceptually and practically challenge the notion of the West. The centre-right is urged not to let populists appropriate yet another issue. Instead, it needs to challenge them (and particularly the populist Left) by consistently defending the merits of the Western community of values.
Parental support, partner support, and the trajectories of mastery from adolescence to early adulthood
Authors: Surjadi Florensia F. , Lorenz Frederick O. , Wickrama K.A.S. , Conger Rand D.
Published: November 2010

This study examines the long‐term associations among parental support, extra‐familial partner support, and the trajectories of sense of mastery from adolescence to the early adulthood years. Ten waves of panel data collected over a 16‐year period from the Iowa Family Transitions Project (N = 527) were used to test the hypotheses. Results indicated that parental support in adolescence was initially associated with higher levels of sense of mastery and with greater extra‐familial partner support during the transition to adulthood. Higher extra‐familial partner support was subsequently associated with an increase in sense of mastery during the transition to adulthood. Overall, our results underscore the importance of mastery in smoothing the adjustment to adulthood and the importance of supportive relationships in shaping a healthy sense of mastery.
The Strategic Importance of Relationships and Tools for Decision Making
Authors: Davey Tracey L.
Published: November 2010

This article presents a commentary on the importance of hospital board member and staff relations as they relate to ethical decision making for boards. Using a case study format, the author presents a series of reasonable ideas and expectations for healthcare organizations and a relative dialogue regarding the engagement of key stakeholders and tools used in the decision making process for boards.
Sustaining Leadership in an Unsustainable System
Authors: Trimnell Jean , Veldhorst Georgina , Witteveen Fred
Published: November 2010

Healthcare executive failures and departures are not only linked to the involved individuals' skills but also are often the result of complex dynamics reflecting larger system, societal, and global polarities and tensions. At the root of many of the challenges leaders face is system unsustainability. This article discusses common challenges as fractals of more complex dynamics, strategies for managing dynamics between organizations and their stakeholders, and approaches for leaders to sustain themselves within this unsustainable system.
La responsabilité du fait d'autrui des établissements envers les médecins: Avons-Nous atteint le point de bascule?
Authors: Hardcastle Lorian
Published: November 2010

Par le passé, les médecins étaient seuls responsables des soins aux patients, tandis que les hôpitaux se contentaient de fournir le matériel et le personnel infirmier. Malgré d'importants changements à la relation entre le médecin et l'hôpital, les tribunaux canadiens maintiennent que les médecins sont des entrepreneurs indépendants. On explore si les propositions en vue de lier la rémunération au rendement, d'accroître la participation des conseils d'administration ou de la direction à l'attribution de privilèges et de partager la responsabilité de la qualité entre les médecins, les conseils d'administration et d'autres intervenants inciteront les tribunaux à transférer aux hôpitaux la responsabilité du fait d'autrui en cas de négligence de la part d'un médecin.
HOPES FOR THE RADIATED BODY: URANIUM MINERS AND TRANSNATIONAL TECHNOPOLITICS IN NAMIBIA
Authors: HECHT GABRIELLE
Published: November 2010

This article explores the transnational politics of technology and science at the Rössing uranium mine in Namibia. During the 1980s, Rössing workers refashioned surveillance technologies into methods for trade union action. When national independence in 1990 failed to produce radical ruptures in the workplace, union leaders engaged in technopolitical strategies of extraversion, and became knowledge producers about their own exposure to workplace contaminants. Appeals to outside scientific authority carried the political promise of international accountability. But engaging in science meant accepting its boundaries, and workers ultimately discovered that technopolitical power could be limiting as well as liberating.
THE ROLE OF SLAVE LABOR IN GROUNDNUT PRODUCTION IN EARLY COLONIAL KANO
Authors: SALAU MOHAMMED BASHIR
Published: November 2010

This article reinforces the interpretation of numerous scholars who have highlighted the role of slave labor in groundnut production during the ‘cash-crop revolution’ in West Africa in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It also expands Jan Hogendorn's argument on the African initiatives involved in the expansion of groundnut production in colonial Northern Nigeria. In particular, it provides evidence of the key role of the emir of Kano (Abbas) and important merchants in the transition to groundnut cultivation and the significant use of slave labor by these large estate-holders. The article focuses mainly on the Fanisau unit of Kano.
PRELUDE TO THE ATLANTIC TRADE: NEW PERSPECTIVES ON SOUTHERN GHANA'S PRE-ATLANTIC HISTORY (800–1500)
Authors: CHOUIN GÉRARD L. , DECORSE CHRISTOPHER R.
Published: November 2010

The Ghanaian forest was well settled by agricultural communities prior to the opening of the Atlantic trade in the late fifteenth century. The most prominent of these settlements were earthworks sites, construction of which began in the first millenniumceand continued until their abrupt abandonment prior to the mid-fifteenth century. In this article, previous archaeological data are evaluated in light of current research to provide a plausible alternative hypothesis for the history of the Akan, placing that history in a much broader and deeper context.
A RE-INTERPRETATION OF THE KONGO–PORTUGUESE WAR OF 1622 ACCORDING TO NEW DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE
Authors: THORNTON JOHN , MOSTERMAN ANDREA
Published: November 2010

An important document in the Dutch Archives casts new light on the Kongo–Portuguese War of 1622, usually seen as a signal defeat for Kongo. This document shows that, after the Portuguese victory over Kongo at the Battle of Mbumbi, there was a second battle in which Kongo forces were victorious, and they in fact began the process of re-occupying lands the Portuguese had absorbed in earlier expansion. In addition, the document reveals the origins of a plan, conceived in Kongo, to form an alliance with the Dutch in order to attack Luanda and drive the Portuguese from Angola, a plan that was realized not in 1624 but in 1641.
Crustacean assemblages along the Guadiana River estuary (south-western
Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Sánchez-Moyano J. Emilio , García-Asencio Isabel
Published: November 2010

The spatial distribution of the subtidal crustacean assemblages of the Guadiana River
estuary was studied previous to the building of the Alqueva Dam (the biggest dam in
Europe). The differences between an estuarine and marine environment seem to be the main
reason responsible for the composition and distribution of the crustaceans along the study
zone. The Guadiana estuary has shown high number of species in comparison with other
nearby estuaries and this richness seems justified by the scarce influence of pollutants
(most of them have shown low or moderate values) and their hydrodynamic and granulometric
characteristics (76 species were found, 39 in the estuarine area). A gradient of
enrichment and structuring of the assemblages was shown from the upstream to the marine
zones and a spatial segregation of species was found along this estuarine environmental
gradient, e.g. the amphipod Corophium multisetosum and the isopod
Cyathura carinata in the upper estuary; the amphipod
Bathyporeia cf. pilosa and the isopods
Lekanesphera levii and Saduriella losadoi in the
middle estuary; the amphipod Melita hergensis in the mouth; and a high
number of species in the marine area. Since the Alqueva Dam will reduce the river
discharges and may cause changes in the abiotic characteristics such as granulometry of
sediments or salinity, this study establishes a baseline against which a monitoring
programme or follow-up studies could measure any significant effects of the dam or related
impacts.
Factors influencing spatial patterns of the ichthyofauna of low energy estuarine beaches in southern Brazil
Authors: Hackradt Carlos Werner , Félix-Hackradt Fabiana Cézar , Pichler Helen Audrey , Spach Henry Louis , de Oliveira e Santos Lilyane
Published: November 2010

Estuarine beaches are low energy environments found along the coast in several protected places around the world, such as estuaries, bays or areas protected by submerged bars or coral reefs. Although common, these places have been poorly studied. Using a seine net, six beaches were sampled along an environmental gradient for 12 months. During this period, an increase of the dominant species following the increase in salinity and energy values was observed, whilst the opposite pattern occurred for species richness and abundance. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed spatial and temporal variations between beaches and months. Depth and marginal habitats appear to be more important factors than wave height and period, temperature, salinity and pH, which are normally used to describe fish habitat utilization patterns in beaches and estuaries. Nevertheless, specific sampling designs should be proposed to evaluate properly these questions.
On the functional morphology of Pinna and Atrina larvae (Bivalvia: Pinnidae) from the Atlantic
Authors: Allen J.A.
Published: November 2010

A detailed account is given for the first time of the biological morphology of pinnid larvae taken from the north-west Atlantic. Three species were present in plankton samples taken from depths of 150–200 m. These were maintained in small aquaria and details of their anatomy, development and metamorphosis recorded and illustrated as far as the young adult stage.
On the diet and reproduction of the oilfishRuvettus pretiosus(Perciformes: Gempylidae) in the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Vasilakopoulos P. , Pavlidis M. , Tserpes G.
Published: November 2010

The oilfish,Ruvettus pretiosus, is an incidental by-catch of the drifting surface longlines targeting swordfish and Thunnidae in the Mediterranean and elsewhere. Despite its global distribution and frequent occurrence in the catch of many fishing gears, little is known about its biology. In this study we examined the dietary preferences and reproductive biology of this species from specimens caught in the eastern Mediterranean. The most numerous and frequently occurring prey items were benthopelagic fish, followed by cephalopods. The sex-ratio was highly skewed in favour of females (1:8.4), while histological examination of the collected ovaries displayed six developmental stages (perinucleolar, early and late lipid stage; early, middle and late vitellogenesis). Oocyte diameter ranged from 23–69 μm at the perinucleolar stage to 224–366 μm at the late vitellogenesis stage. Spawning is expected to occur during mid and late summer; however there were no individuals available from this period. The findings are discussed in relation to the ecology of the species.
Chthamalid barnacles (Cirripedia: Thoracica) of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, Iran
Authors: Shahdadi Adnan , Sari Alireza
Published: November 2010

In the present study, chthamalid barnacles of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman were collected from the coastal zone of Iran. Extensive collecting of different habitat types resulted in finding two species: Chthamalus barnesi and Microeuraphia permitini. In addition to the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, the former species was also collected from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Both species are described and compared for their key characters with some representative members of the genera from other parts of the world.
In vivoinfection byTrypanosoma cruzi: The conserved FLY domain of the gp85/trans-sialidase family potentiates host infection
Authors: TONELLI R. R. , TORRECILHAS A. C. , JACYSYN J. F. , JULIANO M. A. , COLLI W. , ALVES M. J. M.
Published: November 2010

Trypanosoma cruziis a protozoan parasite that infects vertebrates, causing in humans a pathological condition known as Chagas’ disease. The infection of host cells byT. cruziinvolves a vast collection of molecules, including a family of 85 kDa GPI-anchored glycoproteins belonging to the gp85/trans-sialidase superfamily, which contains a conserved cell-binding sequence (VTVXNVFLYNR) known as FLY, for short. Herein, it is shown that BALB/c mice administered with a single dose (1μg/animal, intraperitoneally) of FLY-synthetic peptide are more susceptible to infection byT. cruzi, with increased systemic parasitaemia (2-fold) and mortality. Higher tissue parasitism was observed in bladder (7·6-fold), heart (3-fold) and small intestine (3·6-fold). Moreover, an intense inflammatory response and increment of CD4+T cells (1·7-fold) were detected in the heart of FLY-primed and infected animals, with a 5-fold relative increase of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+T (Treg) cells. Mice treated with anti-CD25 antibodies prior to infection, showed a decrease in parasitaemia in the FLY model employed. In conclusion, the results suggest that FLY facilitatesin vivoinfection byT. cruziand concurs with other factors to improve parasite survival to such an extent that might influence the progression of pathology in Chagas’ disease.
OPTIMAL BERNOULLI ROUTING IN AN UNRELIABLE M/G/1 RETRIAL QUEUE
Authors: Sherman Nathan P. , Kharoufeh Jeffrey P.
Published: November 2010

Recently, Sherman et al. [14] analyzed an M/G/1 retrial queuing model in which customers are forced to retry their service if interrupted by a server failure. Using classical techniques, they provided a stability analysis, queue length distributions, key performance parameters, and stochastic decomposition results. We analyze the system under a static Bernoulli routing policy that routes a proportion of arriving customers directly to the orbit when the server is busy or failed. In addition to providing the key performance parameters, we show that this system exhibits a dual stability structure, and we characterize the optimal Bernoulli routing policy that minimizes the total expected holding costs per unit time.
SOME NEW RESULTS ON ORDERING OF SIMPLE SPACINGS OF GENERALIZED ORDER STATISTICS
Authors: Xie Hongmei , Zhuang Weiwei
Published: November 2010

The concept of generalized order statistics was introduced as a unified approach to a variety of models of ordered random variables. The purpose of this article is to establish several stochastic comparisons of simple spacings in the mean residual life and the excess wealth orders under the more general assumptions on the parameters of the models.
ROLLER-COASTER FAILURE RATES AND MEAN RESIDUAL LIFE FUNCTIONS WITH APPLICATION TO THE EXTENDED GENERALIZED INVERSE GAUSSIAN MODEL
Authors: Gupta Ramesh C. , Viles Weston
Published: November 2010

The investigation in this article was motivated by an extended generalized inverse Gaussian (EGIG) distribution, which has more than one turning point of the failure rate for certain values of the parameters. In order to study the turning points of a failure rate, we appeal to Glaser's eta function, which is much simpler to handle. We present some general results for studying the reationship among the change points of Glaser's eta function, the failure rate, and the mean residual life function (MRLF). Additionally we establish an ordering among the number of change points of Glaser's eta function, the failure rate, and the MRLF. These results are used to investigate, in detail, the monotonicity of the three functions in the case of the EGIG. The EGIG model has one additional parameter, δ, than the generalized inverse Gaussian (GIG) model's three parameters; see Jorgensen [7]. It has been observed that the EGIG model fits certain datasets better than the GIG of Jorgensen [7]. Thus, the purpose of this article is to present some general results dealing with the relationship among the change points of the three functions described earlier. The EGIG model is used as an illustration.