bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Hong Kong Democratizing?
Authors: Boniface Dexter S. , Alon Ilan
Published: September 2010

We argue that the transition to Chinese authority has not undermined democratic governance in Hong Kong and that voice and accountability have improved since the handover. We seek to explain this surprising result and conclude with a discussion of the implications of our findings for China, Taiwan, and cross-strait relations.
Non-Traditional Security in China-ASEAN Cooperation: The Institutionalization of Regional Security Cooperation and the Evolution of East Asian Regionalism
Authors: Arase David
Published: September 2010

The institutionalization of China-ASEAN non-traditional security cooperation is underappreciated, even though its significance should be apparent to Western analysts. Appreciating China-ASEAN non-traditional security cooperation leads to the realization that it has strategic significance, and that the broader China-ASEAN multilateral process is the most institutionally developed expression of East Asian regionalism today.
Picking Your Next Ventilator
Authors: Mammel Mark C. , King Natalie
Published: September 2010

Selection of new ventilator systems for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), once a simple process due to the limited number of products available, is now a time-consuming, complex, and multidisciplinary undertaking. Making the best selection involves input from all clinical partners as well as hospital administration. Because ventilator systems now often may be used across the age spectrum, it is necessary to consider whether these devices will be used outside of the NICU. The selection process involves first choosing a multidisciplinary committee, followed by determination of performance and data handling standards. Costs and implementation strategies play a critical role in this process. A request for proposals is prepared and vendors selected for device presentation. Bench testing, either inhouse or by review of others' data, is required, and a clinical evaluation may be part of the process. Finally, the selection is made and the real work begins.
Effective Academic Vocabulary Instruction in the Urban Middle School
Authors: Kelley Joan G. , Lesaux Nonie K. , Kieffer Michael J. , Faller S. Elisabeth
Published: September 2010

In urban middle schools, educators find it challenging to meet the literacy needs of the many struggling readers in their classrooms, including language‐minority (LM) learners and students from low‐income backgrounds. One strategy for improving these students' reading comprehension is to teach essential academic vocabulary in a meaningful, engaging, and systematic way. This article describes the development and evaluation of an academic vocabulary curriculum for sixth‐grade mainstream classrooms with large numbers of LM learners who struggle with comprehension. In a study conducted in 21 sixth‐grade classrooms, the curriculum was found to be effective both in improving students' vocabulary and reading comprehension and in supporting teachers' learning about how to teach academic vocabulary. Seven universal learnings for all classrooms are described and illustrated with specific examples of activities, perspectives from teachers, and insights from students, drawn from the study.
A Framework for Supporting Scientific Language in Primary Grades
Authors: Honig Sheryl L.
Published: September 2010

In this article, the author reports on findings of second and third graders' science writing about Jupiter in order to describe their expressive fluency with scientific discourse. The students' artifacts were created within a setting of integrated science/literacy instruction in which students participated in hands‐on science activities, engaged in extended talk around scientific ideas, and read and wrote scientific texts. The author also presents a framework for evaluating the written scientific discourse of second‐ and third‐grade students. This framework essentially offers teachers a language for the assessment and support of students' scientific language acquisition. Its value lies in the potential for educators to use such a framework to support the full participation of all students in the field of science.
New York State Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists' Views on Pre–Sinus Lift Referral
Authors: Cote Michael T. , Segelnick Stuart L. , Rastogi Amita , Schoor Robert
Published: September 2010

Background: Dental implant surgery in the posterior maxilla often involves the maxillary sinuses. Sinus surgery for dental implants is highly successful, but the preoperative risk is difficult to assess because a routine preoperative evaluation does not include an intranasal examination by an otolaryngologist. The purpose of the present study is to obtain the opinions of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists located within New York state in an effort to establish a referral protocol before performing a maxillary sinus elevation. This study assesses the need to consult an ENT specialist for evaluation and treatment recommendations in the pretreatment workup.

Methods: A questionnaire and a stamped, return envelope with an identification number was mailed to 302 physicians who maintained a current ENT‐specialty practice or practiced that specialty in a hospital or clinic setting in New York state. The requirement criteria included a valid address and specialty designation. Up to two follow‐up phone calls were made, and another questionnaire was mailed 30 days after the initial mailing. The questionnaire included eight computerized tomography (CT)–scan images that represented different sinus configurations. Answers to the five questions were statistically evaluated and analyzed. A total of 63 recipients returned the questionnaire and were included in the study.

Results: A majority of 58.7% (95% confidence interval: 46.9% to 71.1%) of respondents recommended that a maxillary sinus CT scan should be routinely prescribed before a sinus‐lift surgery. Patient symptoms that ENT specialists suggested indicated referral included nose complications/problems (40.1%) and sinus issues (23.6%). Of the eight CT‐scan images, referral suggestions were >50% for the following: an occluded sinus with septum, inflammation at the base of the sinus only, a sinus with a generalized thickened membrane, an oroantral fistula, a thickened sinus membrane in association with teeth that had endodontic and/or periodontic involvement, and a nearly completely occluded sinus that was missing palatal bone. For patients with seasonal allergies, ENT specialists suggested delaying surgery (20.6%) or controlling symptoms before surgery (41.3%). Concerns included a past history of a sinus surgery (87.3%), chronic sinusitis (85.7%), presence of ostium stenosis (68.3%), nasal or sinus obstruction (82.5%), and oroantral fistulation (74.6%).

Conclusions: Within the limits of the study, an attempt is made to develop a preoperative protocol, and 63 responses from ENT specialists suggested that the majority (58.7%) would recommend a maxillary CT scan before a sinus‐lift surgery. Their greatest concerns were a prior sinus surgery, severe sinus inflammation, nasal/sinus obstruction, and oroantral fistulation.
Fenestration peak solar heat gain: A review of the cloudless day condition as conservative hypothesis
Authors: Fontana Lucia , Quintino Alessandro
Published: September 2010

Peak solar heat gain through fenestration, particularly for clear and cloudy
day conditions, was estimated, using an approach based on the ASHRAE
methodology and considering the correlation between hourly clearness index kT
and diffuse ratio of the total radiation. Hourly SHGCLEAR and SHGCLOUDY
values for surfaces facing the basic cardinal orientations and the horizontal
surface, at different latitudes, on the 21st day of each month, have been
computed and compared. Results show that in many cases solar heat gain for
cloudy day may exceed that for clear day. For wall exposures near the North
the clear day condition could not be the most conservative condition for the
peak SHG evaluation.
Energy savings and emission reductions in industrial boilers
Authors: Saidur R.
Published: September 2010

In this paper energy use of boiler fan motors has been estimated using energy
audit data. Energy savings using VSD by modulating fan speed has been
estimated as well. Bill savings and associated emission reductions using VSD
have been estimated and presented in this paper. It has been found that
139,412 MWh, 268,866, 159,328 MWh, and 99,580 MWh electrical energy can be
saved for 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% motor loadings, respectively for 60% speed
reduction. Corresponding bill savings for the aforementioned energy savings
have been found to be US$7,318,335, US$14,113,933, US$8,363,812, and
US135,911,944 for 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% motor loadings, respectively for 60%
speed reduction. Along with energy savings, 69,770,744 kg, 134,558,329 kg,
79,738,065 kg, 49,836,603 kg of CO2 emission can be avoided for the
associated energy savings as a result of energy savings using VSD for 40%,
60%, 80% and 100% motor loadings. Moreover, 32,503,558 GJ of fossil fuel can
be saved for the flue gas temperature reduction as a result of reducing fan
motor speed reduction. Flue gas energy savings for oxegen trim system has
been estimated and found to be 549,310,130 GJ for 16.9% of excess air
reduction with payback period less than a day.
Mass transfer control of a backward-facing step flow by local forcing-effect of Reynolds number
Authors: Mehrez Zouhaier , Bouterra Mourad , El Cafsi , Belghith Ali , Le Quere
Published: September 2010

The control of fluid mechanics and mass transfer in separated and reattaching
flow over a backward-facing step by a local forcing, is studied using Large
Eddy Simulation (LES). To control the flow, the local forcing is realized by
a sinusoidal oscillating jet at the step edge. The Reynolds number is varied
in the range 10000 ? Re ? 50000 and the Schmidt number is fixed at 1. The
found results show that the flow structure is modified and the local mass
transfer is enhanced by the applied forcing. The observed changes depend on
the Reynolds number and vary with the frequency and amplitude of the local
forcing. For the all Reynolds numbers, the largest recirculation zone size
reduction is obtained at the optimum forcing frequency St = 0.25. At this
frequency the local mass transfer enhancement attains the maximum.
Convective heat and mass transfer in a non-Newtonian-flow formation in Couette motion in magnetohydrodynamics with time-varing suction
Authors: Salama Faiza
Published: September 2010

An analysis is carried out to study the effect of heat and mass transfer on a
non-Newtonian-fluid between two infinite parallel walls, one of them moving
with a uniform velocity under the action of a transverse magnetic field. The
moving wall moves with constant velocity in the direction of fluid flow while
the free stream velocity is assumed to follow the exponentially increasing
small perturbation law. Time-dependent wall suction is assumed to occur at
permeable surface. The governing equations for the flow are transformed into
a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by perturbation
technique and are solved numerically by using the shooting technique with
fourth order Runge-Kutta integration scheme. The effect of non-Newtonian
parameter, magnetic pressure parameter, Schmidt number, Grashof number and
modified Grashof number on velocity, temperature, concentration and the
induced magnetic field are discussed. Numerical results are given and
illustrated graphically for the considered Problem.
Experimental examination of sulphur dioxide separation from mixture of gas in dry procedure with the aid of calcium carbonate
Authors: Djuric Slavko , Omerovic Midhat , Brankov Sasa , Dzaferovic Ejub , Stanojevic Petko
Published: September 2010

This paper refers to an experiment of SO2 absorption to the particles of
sorbent CaCO3, the mass of sample was 100 g with fractional composition of
500-700?m and 1100-1300?m. During the experiment the temperature varied from
200 and 400?C. The aim of this experiment described in this paper, is to
examine the influence of lower reaction temperature, the size of sorbent
particles and reaction time to the degree of SO2 absorption and determining
the degree of CaCO3 sorbent utilization. The results show that at the
reaction temperature of approximately 200?C and average diameter of sorbent
particles ?600?m, the absorption degree of SO2 absorption to the particles of
sorbent is between 42-66%. Reaching temperature of 400?C and with the same
fractional composition of the sorbent, ?600?m, the absorption degree of SO2
is slightly higher and it is somewhere around 45-78%. With greater diameters
sorbent particle of ?1200?m, absorption degree of SO2 is a bit lower. The
determined degree of utilized sorbent CaCO3 is considerably lower and it
reaches up to 6.87%. The acquired results indicate that besides CaO, Ca(OH)2
and CaMg(CO3)2 it is reasonable to inject the CaCO3 sorbent, in the areas of
lower temperatures i.e. in the flue channel of the thermal power plant.
Effects of hypercapnia, hypocapnia, and hyperoxemia on brain morphometrics determined by use of T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs
Authors: Rioja Eva , McDonell Wayne N. , Kerr Carolyn L. , Dobson Howard , Konyer Norman B. , Poma Roberto , Chalmers Heather J. , Noseworthy Michael D.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To evaluate the effects of various combinations of Paco2 and Pao2 values on brain morphometrics.

Animals—6 healthy adult dogs.

Procedures—A modified Latin square design for randomization was used. Dogs were anesthetized with propofol (6 to 8 mg/kg, IV), and anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane (1.7%) and atracurium (0.2 mg/kg, IV, q 30 min). Three targeted values of Paco2 (20, 40, and 80 mm Hg) and 2 values of Pao2 (100 and 500 mm Hg) were achieved in each dog, yielding 6 combinations during a single magnetic resonance (MR) imaging session. When the endpoints were reached, dogs were given at least 5 minutes for physiologic variables to stabilize before T1-weighted MR images were obtained. Total brain volume (TBV) and lateral ventricular volume (LVV) were calculated from manually drawn contours of areas of interest by use of a software program, with each dog serving as its own control animal. Three blinded investigators subjectively evaluated the lateral ventricular size (LVS) and the cerebral sulci width (CSW). Brain morphometric values were compared among the target blood gas states.

Results—No significant differences in TBV were found among target states. The LVV was significantly greater during hypocapnia, compared with hypercapnia at the same Pao2 value. With regard to the subjective evaluations, there were no significant differences among evaluators or among combinations of Pao2 and Paco2 values.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The changes observed in LVV during hypocapnia and hypercapnia may serve as a potential confounding factor when neuromorphometric evaluations are performed in anesthetized dogs. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1011–1018)
Evaluation of the effect of bolus administration of 50% dextrose solution on measures of electrolyte and energy balance in postpartum dairy cows
Authors: Wagner Sarah A. , Schimek Daniel E.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To determine the effect of IV administration of a bolus of 50% dextrose solution on electrolyte and energy balance and effect of blood collection site on serum electrolyte values in postparturient dairy cows.

Animals—24 clinically normal multiparous cows.

Procedures—A bolus of 50% dextrose solution (0.5 L [n = 8 cows]), 50% dextrose solution (1.0 L [8]), or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (1.0 L, control treatment [8]) was administered via jugular venipuncture 5 to 10 days after parturition. Pretreatment and posttreatment blood samples were analyzed for concentrations of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, glucose, insulin, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and nonesterified fatty acids. Coccygeal vessel and jugular vein blood samples were obtained prior to treatment, and electrolyte concentrations were compared.

Results—Treatment with 50% dextrose decreased phosphorus concentration in serum, compared with the control treatment. Suppression of BHBA and nonesterified fatty acid concentrations following dextrose treatment lasted for < 12 hours; mean BHBA concentrations in all groups were increased 24 hours after treatment. Mean serum phosphorus concentration in coccygeal vessel blood samples was 0.67 mg/dL greater than the concentration in jugular vein blood samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Postpartum cows treated with dextrose solution may be at risk for hypophosphatemia, and 1 treatment with 0.5 or 1 L of 50% dextrose solution is unlikely to prevent or resolve acetonemia (ketosis). The risk of hypophosphatemia may be underestimated when coccygeal vessel blood samples are used for diagnosis. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1074–1080)
Radiological changes of the operated and adjacent segments following cervical arthroplasty after a minimum 24-month follow-up: comparison between the Bryan and Prodisc-C devices
Authors: Ryu Kyeong-Sik , Park Chun-Kun , Jun Sung-Chul , Huh Han-Yong
Published: September 2010

Object

The purposes of this retrospective study were to determine the radiological changes at the index and adjacent levels after cervical arthroplasty using the Bryan disc and Prodisc-C disc after a minimum 24 months follow-up, and to demonstrate the possible clinical factors related to these changes.

Methods

Following single-level cervical arthroplasty using either the Bryan disc or Prodisc-C, the degree of facet degeneration and other radiological changes at the index and adjacent levels were assessed by observing radiographs and CT scans at a minimum 24 months after the operations. These findings were determined in relation to the clinical outcome, various perioperative factors, and prosthesis factors. Thirty-six patients were included in this investigation (19 in the Bryan disc group and 17 in the Prodisc-C group).

Results

At the index level, progression of facet arthrosis (PFA) was observed in 7 of 36 levels (1 level with the Bryan disc, 6 with the Prodisc-C). At adjacent levels, PFA was minimally observed. Heterotopic ossification (HO) was observed at 19 levels (11 with the Bryan disc, 8 with Prodisc-C). Progression of facet arthrosis at the index segments was positively related to malposition of the prosthesis on the frontal plane, and decreased postoperative functional spinal unit range of motion at the index level. Occurrence of HO was correlated with the preoperative calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament at the operated level, regardless of prosthesis type. Clinical outcome and the occurrence of PFA or HO did not show any significant relationship.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the incidence of PFA at the index level is 19.4% after a minimum 24-month follow-up, and occurs more frequently in the Prodisc-C group. Progression of facet arthrosis is related to less functional spinal unit range of motion and anterior placement of the prosthesis. The occurrence rate of HO is high, regardless of the type of prosthesis, and it is significantly correlated with preoperative calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament at the operated level.
Cavernous malformations of the optic pathway and hypothalamus: analysis of 65 cases in the literature
Authors: Liu James K. , Lu Yuan , Raslan Ahmed M. , Gultekin S. Humayun , Delashaw Johnny B.
Published: September 2010

Object

Cavernous malformations (CMs) of the optic pathway and hypothalamus (OPH) are extremely rare. Patients with these lesions typically present with chiasmal apoplexy, characterized by sudden visual loss, acute headaches, retroorbital pain, and nausea. Surgical removal is the recommended treatment to restore or preserve vision and to eliminate the risk of future hemorrhage. However, the anatomical location and eloquence of nearby neural structures can make these lesions difficult to access and remove. In this study, the authors review the literature for reported cases of OPH CMs to analyze clinical and radiographic presentations as well as surgical approaches and neurological outcomes.

Methods

A MEDLINE/PubMed search was performed, revealing 64 cases of OPH CMs. The authors report an additional case in the study, making a total of 65 cases. Each case was analyzed for clinical presentation, lesion location, radiographic features, treatment method, and visual outcome.

Results

In 65 patients with OPH CMs, the optic chiasm was affected in 54 cases, the optic nerve(s) in 35, the optic tract in 13, and the hypothalamus in 5. Loss of visual field and acuity was the most common presenting symptom (98%), followed by headache (60%). The onset of symptoms was acute in 58% of patients, subacute in 15%, and chronic progressive in 26%. Computed tomography scans revealed hyperdense suprasellar lesions, with calcification visible in 56% of cases. Magnetic resonance imaging typically demonstrated a heterogeneous lesion with mixed signal intensities suggestive of blood of different ages. The lesion was often surrounded by a peripheral rim of hypointensity on T2-weighted images in 60% of cases. Minimal or no enhancement occurred after the administration of gadolinium. Hemorrhage was reported in 82% of cases. Most patients were surgically treated (97%) using gross-total resection (60%), subtotal resection (6%), biopsy procedure alone (6%), biopsy procedure with decompression (23%), and biopsy procedure followed by radiation (2%). Those patients who underwent gross-total resection had the highest rate of visual improvement (85%). Two patients were treated conservatively, resulting in complete blindness in 1 patient and spontaneous recovery of vision in the other patient.

Conclusions

Cavernous malformations of the OPH are rare and challenging lesions. Gross-total resection of these lesions is associated with favorable visual outcomes. Emergent surgery is warranted in patients presenting with chiasmal apoplexy to prevent permanent damage to the visual pathway.
Prognostic factors for the outcome of surgical and conservative treatment of symptomatic spinal cord cavernous malformations: a review of a series of 20 patients
Authors: Steiger Hans-Jakob , Turowski Bernd , Hänggi Daniel
Published: September 2010

Object

In this study, the authors present a review of a series of 20 intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations (SCCMs) with particular focus on MR imaging and prognostic factors.

Methods

Between 1994 and 2009, 20 patients with SCCM were treated under the care of the senior author. The diagnosis was made in all patients after the onset of clinical symptoms. The age of the 9 men and 11 women ranged between 26 and 71 years (median 38.5 years). The duration of symptoms prior to referral ranged from 1 week to 9 years (median 6.5 months). At the time of referral, 4 patients had no significant neurological deficits, 10 patients suffered significant functional restrictions, and 6 patients presented with severe paraparesis and loss of functional strength. None of the patients had complete paraplegia. Seventeen patients underwent microsurgical removal, while 3 patients opted for conservative therapy. For the present analysis, the medical records and MR images and/or reports were reviewed. Classification of length of history, pretreatment status, MR imaging pattern, and treatment modality was done and correlated with outcome.

Results

The cavernoma was located at the cervical level in 8 patients and between T-1 and L-1 in 12 patients. The cavernoma appeared as mainly T2 hyperintense on MR images in 7 patients, mainly T2 hypointense in 2 patients, and mixed in the remaining 10 patients. The craniocaudal extension of the core varied between 5 and 45 mm. In 2 patients with cervical cavernomas, a distinct T2 signal of the spinal cord cranial and distal to the cavernoma was seen, and in a patient with a large thoracic cavernoma, T2 extinction cranial and caudal to the cavernoma was seen as a sign of hemosiderosis. Neurological deficits improved postoperatively in 12 of the surgically treated patients, remained stable in 2, and deteriorated in 3. The 3 patients who were conservatively treated remained stable over a follow-up of 3–9 years. Postoperative improvement was seen in 5 of 7 surgical patients with a history of symptoms of 2 months or less, 5 of 6 patients with a history of 2–24 months, and in 2 of 4 patients with a history of more than 2 years. Two of the 3 patients with postoperative deterioration had a history of more than 2 years and the third a short history of 1 month.

Conclusions

Although a satisfactory outcome can be achieved through surgical treatment of SCCMs, some patients worsen after surgery or during the postoperative course. Long-term stability is possible in oligosymptomatic conservatively treated patients. The prevalence and pathophysiological importance of segmental spinal cord edema and hemosiderosis is incompletely understood at the present time.
Clinical presentation and surgical management of intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations
Authors: Lu Daniel C. , Lawton Michael T.
Published: September 2010

Object

Intramedullary cavernous malformation (CM) is a rare entity, accounting for 5% of all intraspinal lesions. The objective in this study was to define the clinical characteristics of this disease, detail the surgical approach and technique, and present the clinical outcome.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed in 22 patients with histologically confirmed CMs. The authors used a laminectomy approach for midline dorsal lesions, with unilateral radical facetectomy and dentate ligament resection for laterally or ventrally located lesions. Patient profiles, operative indications, surgical approaches, operative findings, complications, and long-term follow-up were reviewed.

Results

The average age of patients in the cohort was 43 ± 14 years, the average duration of symptoms was 7 ± 7 months, and the average follow-up was 6 ± 4 years. The average size of the lesion was 1 ± 0.4 cm, the average surgical time was 4 ± 0.96 hours, and the average estimated blood loss was 350 ± 131 ml. The rate of complication was 5% (1 patient; due to a wound infection). According to the McCormick classification, the score for the cohort was 1.8 ± 1.2 preoperatively, 2.1 ± 1.2 postoperatively, and 1.3 ± 0.65 at late follow-up. (All preceding values are given as the mean ± SD.) There was a significant neurological improvement at follow-up compared with the preoperative state (p < 0.05). The majority of patients (50%) had a stable outcome compared with their preoperative state, with a large proportion (41%) having an improved outcome. A minority of patients (9%) had a worsened outcome due to dysesthetic pain. Patients with dysesthesia had a longer duration of clinical symptoms prior to surgery compared with patients without dysesthesia (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The authors demonstrated the safety, efficacy, and durability of their surgical approach for resection of spinal intramedullary CM. Proper examination, preoperative imaging, and prompt surgical intervention were necessary for a satisfactory outcome.
Radiographic assessment of snap-shunt failure
Authors: Rughani Anand I. , Tranmer Bruce I. , Florman Jeffrey E. , Wilson James T.
Published: September 2010

Accurate assessment of imaging studies in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunts can be aided by empirical findings. The authors characterize an objective measurement easily performed on head CT scans with the goal of producing clear evidence of shunt fracture or disconnection in patients with a snap shunt–type system.

The authors describe 2 cases of ventriculoperitoneal shunt failure involving a fracture and a disconnection associated with a snap-shunt assembly. In both cases the initial clinical symptoms were not convincing for shunt malfunction, and the interpretation of the CT finding failed to immediately identify the abnormality. As the clinical picture became more convincing for shunt malfunction, each patient subsequently underwent successful shunt revision. The authors reviewed the CT scans of 10 patients with an intact and functioning snap-shunt system to characterize the normal appearance of the snap-shunt connection.

On CT scans the distance between the radiopaque portion of the ventricular catheter and the radiopaque portion of the reservoir dome measures an average of 4.72 mm (range 4.6–4.9 mm, 95% CI 4.63–4.81 mm). In the authors' patient with a fractured ventricular catheter, this interval measured 7.8 mm, and in the patient with a disconnection it measured 7.7 mm.

In comparison with the range of normal values, a radiolucent interval significantly greater than 4.9 mm should promptly raise concern for a disconnected or fractured shunt in this system. This measurement may prove particularly useful when serial imaging is not readily available.
Care of pediatric neurosurgical patients in Iraq in 2007: clinical and ethical experience of a field hospital
Authors: Martin Jonathan E. , Teff Richard J. , Spinella Philip C.
Published: September 2010

Object

Care for host-nation pediatric casualties and disease or nonbattle injuries is an essential mission of deployed military medical assets. Clinical experience with pediatric patients at field hospitals has been increasingly reported since 2001, with neurotrauma identified as a major cause of morbidity and death in this population. A concentrated pediatric neurosurgical experience at a deployed medical facility has not been reported. The authors reviewed their experience with pediatric neurosurgical patients at a field hospital in Iraq in 2007 to provide insight into the management of this patient population.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted using a prospective database constructed by the authors for quality improvement during a single combat rotation in 2007.

Results

Forty-two patients among 287 consultations were 17 years of age or younger. Twenty-six of these children were 8 years old or younger. Penetrating head injuries were the most common indication for consultation (22 of 42 patients). Twenty-eight of 130 surgical procedures were performed in the children. One patient died in the perioperative period, for a trauma-related operative mortality rate of 4%. Seven patients received palliative care based on the extent of presenting injuries. Twenty-five patients were discharged with minimal or no neurological deficits.

Conclusions

Pediatric patients represent a significant proportion of the neurosurgical patient volume at field medical hospitals in the Iraqi theater. The mature medical theater environment present in 2007 allowed for remarkable diagnostic evaluation and treatment of these patients. Penetrating and closed craniospinal injuries were the most common indication for consultation. Disease and nonbattle injuries were also encountered, with care provided when deemed appropriate. The deployed environment presents unique medical and ethical challenges to neurosurgeons serving in forward medical facilities.
Basic Biochemical Constituents and Profiles of Amino Acids in the Post Larvae of Macrobrachium rosenbergii Fed with Spirulina and Yeast Enriched Artemia
Authors: Bhavan P. S. , Devi V. G. , Shanti R. , Radhakrishnan S. , Poongodi R.
Published: September 2010

This study was aimed to assess the growth performance of Macrobrachium rosenbergii post larvae fed with Spirulina and yeast enriched Artemia for 60 days. The length and body weight in prawns fed with enriched Artemia were increased significantly (P<0.05) However, Spirulina enriched Artemia fed prawns produced better growth than that of the yeast enriched Artemia fed prawns. Spirulina enriched Artemia acquired more level of total protein, amino acids and lipid than yeast enriched Artemia. While, yeast enriched Artemia acquired higher level of total carbohydrate than that of the Spirulina enriched Artemia. The similar trends in the content of biochemical constituents were also recorded in prawns fed with enriched Artemia. The content of essential amino acids, such as phenylalanine, leucine, tyrosine, isoleucine, tryptophan, methionine, valine, threonine, arginine, histidine and lysine were found to be higher in prawns fed with Spirulina enriched Artemia than that of prawns fed with yeast enriched Artemia.  Spirulina has produced better growth in M. rosenbergii than that of yeast. However, yeast as well produced appreciable growth when compared with control. Therefore, both Spirulina and yeast can be taken as supplementary materials in feed management practices.    Keywords: Prawn; Artemia; Spirulina; Yeast; Protein; Amino acid; Lipid; Carbohydrate. © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.3663                  J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 539-549 (2010)
Quality of Ground and Surface Water of Rajshahi City Area for Sustainable Drinking Water Source
Authors: Rasul M. T. , Jahan M. S.
Published: September 2010

An investigation was carried out to assess the water qualities and extents of impurities in groundwater and surface water (Padma river water) in Rajshahi City area. Water samples from a total of 330 tube wells and five spots of the river Padma were analysed for physicochemical, biological and hydrological parameters with standard methods. Among all considered parameters of ground water, concentrations of arsenic, iron, manganese, total hardness, and total coliform and faecal coliform bacteria were found above the permissible limits for potable water. In case of the river Padma, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total coliform, faecal coliform and suspended solids exceeded permissible limits. Both ground and river water must be treated properly before distribution for drinking purpose. Finally, the Padma is recommended as the most sustainable drinking water source for Rajshahi City Corporation area. Keywords: Rajshahi City; Ground water; Surface water; Quality control. © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.4093                 J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 579-586 (2010)
Quantum field theory on the degenerate Moyal space
Authors: Grosse Harald , Vignes-Tourneret Fabien
Published: September 2010

We prove that the self-interacting scalar field on the four-dimensional
degenerate
Moyal plane is renormalisable to all orders when adding a suitable counterterm to the Lagrangian. Despite the apparent simplicity of the model, it raises several non-trivial questions. Our result is a first step towards the definition of renormalisable quantum field theories on a non-commutative Minkowski space.
The Heisenberg–Lorentz quantum group
Authors: Kasprzak Paweł
Published: September 2010

In this article we present a new C

^*

-algebraic deformation of the Lorentz group. It is obtained by means of the Rieffel deformation applied to

\mathrm{SL}(2,ℂ)

. We give a detailed description of the resulting quantum group

\mathbb{G} = (A,Δ)

in terms of generators

\hat α, \hat β, \hat γ, \hat δ \in A^η

–  the quantum counterparts of the matrix coefficients

α, β, γ, δ

of the fundamental representation of

\mathrm{SL}(2,ℂ)

. In order to construct

\hat β

–   the most involved of the four generators – we first define it on the quantum Borel subgroup

\mathbb G_0\subset\mathbb G

, then on the quantum complement of the Borel subgroup and finally we perform the gluing procedure. In order to classify representations of the C

{}^*

-algebra

A

and to analyze the action of the comultiplication

Δ

on the generators

\hat α, \hat β, \hat γ, \hat δ

we employ the duality in the theory of locally compact quantum groups.
Mini-Workshop: History of Mathematics in Germany, 1920-1960
Authors: Epple Moritz , Remmert Volker , Schappacher Norbert
Published: September 2010

The Mini-Workshop dealt with the history of mathematics in Germany between 1920 and 1960, with a particular focus on the social history of mathematics. For the period under discussion research in the history of mathematics is faced with some fundamental problems, which cannot be addressed by individuals. Consequently the Mini-Workshop’s aim was to develop future perspectives and methods for research and ways to organise new research projects. Among the topics addressed during the Mini-Workshop were the international relations of mathematicians in Germany before, during and after World War II; the prosopography of mathematicians in Germany from before 1933 into the 1950s; the role of mathematics as a key technology in World War II; and the professional policies from the 1920s to the 1950s.
Disciplines and Styles in Pure Mathematics, 1800-2000
Authors: Rowe David , Volkert Klaus , Nabonnand Philippe , Remmert Volker
Published: September 2010

This workshop addressed issues of discipline and style in number theory, algebra, geometry, topology, analysis, and mathematical physics. Most speakers presented case studies, but some offered global surveys of how stylistic shifts informed the transition and transformation of special research fields. Older traditions in established research communities were considered alongside newer trends, including changing views regarding the role of proof.
Microstructures in Solids: From Quantum Models to Continua
Authors: Mielke Alexander , Ortiz Michael
Published: September 2010

The mathematical theory of solids was studied from the modern perspective of materials with microcstructures. The discussed topics ranged from experimental findings, via numerical simulations and mathematical modeling to the analysis of models with microstructures. A special emphasis was given to theories providing rigorous insight into and justification of the limit passage between different scales.
Bayesian Spatiotemporal Analysis of Socio-Ecologic Drivers of Ross River Virus Transmission in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Hu Wenbiao , Clements Archie , Williams Gail , Tong Shilu , Mengersen Kerrie
Published: September 2010

This study aims to examine the impact of socio-ecologic factors on the transmission of Ross River virus (RRV) infection and to identify areas prone to social and ecologic-driven epidemics in Queensland, Australia. We used a Bayesian spatiotemporal conditional autoregressive model to quantify the relationship between monthly variation of RRV incidence and socio-ecologic factors and to determine spatiotemporal patterns. Our results show that the average increase in monthly RRV incidence was 2.4% (95% credible interval (CrI): 0.1–4.5%) and 2.0% (95% CrI: 1.6–2.3%) for a 1°C increase in monthly average maximum temperature and a 10 mm increase in monthly average rainfall, respectively. A significant spatiotemporal variation and interactive effect between temperature and rainfall on RRV incidence were found. No association between Socio-economic Index for Areas (SEIFA) and RRV was observed. The transmission of RRV in Queensland, Australia appeared to be primarily driven by ecologic variables rather than social factors.
An Exposure-Free Tool for Monitoring Adult Malaria Mosquito Populations
Authors: Govella Nicodem J. , Moore Jason D. , Killeen Gerry F.
Published: September 2010

Catches of Anopheles gambiae and An. arabiensis with the Ifakara Tent Trap-model B (ITT-B) correlate better with human landing catches than any other method but fail to reduce the proportion of blood-fed mosquito caught, which indicates that users are exposed to bites during collection. An improved C model (ITT-C) was developed and evaluated by comparing with ITT-B in semi-field and full-field conditions in southern Tanzania. The sensitivity of the ITT-C was approximately two times that of the ITT-B: relative rate (95% confidence interval) = 1.92 (1.52–2.42), 1.90 (1.48–2.43), and 2.30 (1.54–3.30) for field populations of An. arabiensis, Culex spp., and Mansonia spp., respectively. The ITT-C caught 73% less blood-fed An. arabiensis than the ITT-B in open field experiments and none in semi-field experiments, which confirmed that the C design is a safe trapping method. Validation of ITT-C by comparison with human landing catches and parasitologic measures of human infection status may be necessary to confirm that this design produces consistent and epidemiologically meaningful results.
Genetic Analysis of Influenza A/H1N1 of Swine Origin Virus (SOIV) Circulating in Central and South America
Authors: Sovero Merly , Garcia Josefina , Laguna-Torres V. Alberto , Gomez Jorge , Aleman Washington , Chicaiza Wilson , Barrantes Melvin , Sanchez Felix , Jimenez Mirna , Comach Guillermo , de Rivera Ivette Lorenzana , Barboza Alma , Aguayo Nicolas , Kochel Tadeusz
Published: September 2010

Since the first detection of swine origin virus (SOIV) on March 28, 2009, the virus has spread worldwide and oseltamivir-resistant strains have already been identified in the past months. Here, we show the phylogenetic analysis of 63 SOIV isolates from eight countries in Central and South America, and their sensitivity to oseltamivir.
Early Diagnosis of Dengue Infection Using a Commercial Dengue Duo Rapid Test Kit for the Detection of NS1, IGM, and IGG
Authors: Wang Seok Mui , Sekaran Shamala Devi
Published: September 2010

A commercial Dengue Duo rapid test kit was evaluated for early dengue diagnosis by detection of dengue virus NS1 antigen and immunoglobulin M (IgM)/IgG antibodies. A total of 420 patient serum samples were subjected to real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), in-house IgM capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hemagglutination inhibition assay, and the SD Dengue Duo rapid test. Of the 320 dengue acute and convalescent sera, dengue infection was detected by either serology or RT-PCR in 300 samples (93.75%), as compared with 289 samples (90.31%) in the combined SD Duo NS1/IgM. The NS1 detection rate is inversely proportional, whereas the IgM detection rate is directly proportional to the presence of IgG antibodies. The sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing acute dengue infection in the SD Duo NS1/IgM were 88.65% and 98.75%, respectively. The assay is sensitive and highly specific. Detection of both NS1 and IgM by SD Duo gave comparable detection rate by either serology or RT-PCR.
Rapid Detection of Lactate Dehydrogenase and Genotyping of Plasmodium falciparum in Saliva of Children with Acute Uncomplicated Malaria
Authors: Gbotosho Grace O. , Happi Christian T. , Folarin Onikepe , Keyamo Ochuko , Sowunmi Akintunde , Oduola Ayoade M. J.
Published: September 2010

The diagnosis of malaria in biological fluids other than blood using non-invasive, rapid diagnostic techniques provides a valuable approach in case management and epidemiological studies of malaria. Rapid detection of Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) in saliva samples from 130 of 144 children with microscopically confirmed P. falciparum infection was evaluated using Optimal-IT dipsticks. Genotyping of parasites was also performed in saliva and blood samples from a cohort of patients by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The sensitivity of the dipstick in whole-blood, whole-saliva, or supernatant of spun saliva samples was 97.2%, 77.9%, and 48.4%, respectively. The sensitivity of the dipstick in whole-saliva samples was significantly higher than in supernatant of spun saliva samples (P < 0.0005). Mutant T76 allele was detectable in 60% and 57% of blood and saliva samples, respectively. This finding shows rapid detection of pLDH in patient saliva.
The GITEWS ocean bottom sensor packages
Authors: Boebel O. , Busack M. , Flueh E. R. , Gouretski V. , Rohr H. , Macrander A. , Krabbenhoeft A. , Motz M. , Radtke T.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The German-Indonesian Tsunami Early Warning System (GITEWS) aims at reducing the risks posed by events such as the 26 December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. To minimize the lead time for tsunami alerts, to avoid false alarms, and to accurately predict tsunami wave heights, real-time observations of ocean bottom pressure from the deep ocean are required. As part of the GITEWS infrastructure, the parallel development of two ocean bottom sensor packages, PACT (Pressure based Acoustically Coupled Tsunameter) and OBU (Ocean Bottom Unit), was initiated. The sensor package requirements included bidirectional acoustic links between the bottom sensor packages and the hosting surface buoys, which are moored nearby. Furthermore, compatibility between these sensor systems and the overall GITEWS data-flow structure and command hierarchy was mandatory. While PACT aims at providing highly reliable, long term bottom pressure data only, OBU is based on ocean bottom seismometers to concurrently record sea-floor motion, necessitating highest data rates. This paper presents the technical design of PACT, OBU and the HydroAcoustic Modem (HAM.node) which is used by both systems, along with first results from instrument deployments off Indonesia.
HRTEM Study of the Mineral Phases in Human Cortical Bone
Authors: Xin Renlong , Leng Yang , Wang Ning
Published: August 2010

Although bone minerals have been widely studied by various techniques in previous studies, crystal structures and morphology of bone minerals remained as controversy. In this study, bone minerals were extracted from human cortical bone with ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid solution (pH 7.4, ambient temperature) and examined by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the majority of bone minerals were flake‐like and a few were needle‐like. Most of flake‐like minerals were less than 100 nm in their largest dimension and the needle‐like minerals have a width of ∼10 nm. Hydroxyapatite structure was identified in relatively thick bone minerals. However, octacalcium phosphate structure was identified in relatively thin flake‐like bone minerals. Moreover, central dark line defect similar to that reported in dentin and enamel crystals was observed in some of needle‐like bone minerals.
Simultaneous and Dual Emissive Imaging by Micro‐Contact Printing on the Surface of Electrostatically Assembled Water‐Soluble Poly(p‐phenylene) Using FRET
Authors: Kwak Chan Kyu , Kim Dai Geun , Kim Tae Hyeon , Lee Chang‐Soo , Lee Minjung , Lee Taek Seung
Published: August 2010

Poly{[2,5‐bis(3‐sulfonatobutoxy)‐1,4‐phenylene sodium salt]‐alt‐(1,4‐phenylene)}, which is an anionically charged, water‐soluble poly(para‐phenylene) derivative with aldehyde groups at both chain ends, is prepared via the Suzuki coupling reaction in order to develop a FRET energy donor, while simultaneously dual‐fluorescence‐patterning the protein. Regardless of the end‐capping, the synthesized polymer exhibits a good solubility in water with an absorption maximum at 338 nm and a photoluminescence maximum at 417 nm, similar to those of the the end‐capped polymer. The emission spectrum of the polymer overlaps the absorption spectrum of fluorescein, and therefore, the polymer can be used as an energy donor with fluorescein as the energy acceptor in the FRET mechanism. This polymer design not only takes advantage of the introduction of biotin at both chain ends (through a reaction with the aldehyde end groups) to realize the facile interaction with streptavidin, but also brings into play the electrostatic features of the anionic sulfonate groups to fabricate an electrostatic self‐assembly with polycation for the pattern substrate. The micropattern of fluorescein‐labeled streptavidin is fabricated on the polymer‐coated substrate through micro‐contact printing using a polydimethylsiloxane mold. As a result, the polymer substrate exhibits a dual fluorescence micropattern, which results from the blue emission color from the energy donor and the FRET‐amplified green emission from the energy acceptor. The high‐resolution patterning is carried out for the application of multiplexing by simultaneously imaging the patterned green‐emitting fluorescein by FRET and the surrounding blue‐emitting polymer according to an optical detection scheme.