bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing and Inspecting for Progressive Epoxy Debonding in Bonded Insulated Rail Joints
Authors: Peltier Daniel C. , Barkan Christopher P. L.
Published: December 2009

Progressive epoxy debonding is a common factor in many failures of bonded, insulated joints (IJs) in heavy axle load railroad service. This paper describes a study in which IJs with different amounts of debonding were visually inspected and measured and then disassembled. The shape and area of the debonded region for each IJ was quantified and variability between joints recorded. Because of some degree of ambiguity in the visual appearance of the interior surfaces, two different criteria for identifying the boundaries of the debonded region are described and applied. Debonding usually extends farther along the upper and lower portions of the rail–joint bar interface, resulting in a V- or U-shaped debonded region. Additionally, debonding tends to be more extensive on one end of the joint than the other, although it appears that debonding is generally about equal on the field and gage sides. The total debonded area was compared with several linear measurements of damage to the externally visible top edge of the epoxy–insulator layer–-the part that is available for inspection in an in-service IJ. There is a strong correlation between the total debonded area in the joint and the total extent of damaged (missing or loose) top insulator edge. The debonded area can be estimated visually, with 80% confidence, to within 12,000 to 28,000 mm2, depending on which criteria are used to define the debonded region.
On the Spectral Entropy of Thermodynamic Paths for Elementary Systems
Authors: Graham Daniel J.
Published: December 2009

Systems do not elect thermodynamic pathways on their own. They operate in tandem with their surroundings. Pathway selection and traversal require coordinated work and heat exchanges along with parallel tuning of the system variables. Previous research by the author (Reference [1]) focused on the information expressed in thermodynamic pathways. Examined here is how spectral entropy is a by-product of information that depends intricately on the pathway structure. The spectral entropy has proven to be a valuable tool in diverse fields. This paper illustrates the contact between spectral entropy and the properties which distinguish ideal from non-ideal gases. The role of spectral entropy in the first and second laws of thermodynamics and heat → work conversions is also discussed.
Locating Acoustic Events Based on Large-Scale Sensor Networks
Authors: Kim Yungeun , Ahn Junho , Cha Hojung
Published: December 2009

Research on acoustic source localization is actively being conducted to enhance accuracy and coverage. However, the performance is inherently limited due to the use of expensive sensor nodes and inefficient communication methods. This paper proposes an acoustic source localization algorithm for a large area that uses low-cost sensor nodes. The proposed mechanism efficiently handles multiple acoustic sources by removing false-positive errors that arise from the different propagation ranges of radio and sound. Extensive outdoor experiments with real hardware validated that the proposed mechanism could localize four acoustic sources within a 3 m error in a 60 m by 60 m area, where conventional systems could hardly achieve similar performance.
An 11-year-old Boy with a Fever and Non-pruritic Rash
Authors: Zipkin Ronen , Moustafa Marwa , Rosenberg Shira
Published: December 2009

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Explain the differential diagnosis of a patient with rash and fever.

2.

Identify the typical presentation of murine typhus.

3.

Discuss the management of a patient with murine typhus.
Evaluation of Reducing Postoperative Hip Precautions in Total Hip Replacement: A Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Ververeli Prodromos A. , Lebby Eric B. , Tyler Cheryl , Fouad Carol
Published: December 2009

Currently, many rehabilitation protocols for total hip replacements (THRs) include activity restrictions to prevent postoperative dislocation. There is increasing demand for more efficient and safe rehabilitation protocols. This randomized prospective study evaluates the need for hip restrictions following a modified anterolateral procedure. From 2004 to 2008, 81 patients seeking elective THRs were randomly assigned into a standard rehabilitation group or an early rehabilitation group. The standard group included restrictions to avoid hip flexion >90° and avoidance of riding in a car for the first postoperative month. The early group had no flexion or car riding restrictions. Forty-three patients were in the standard group and 38 patients were in the early group. There were no significant demographic differences between the 2 groups. All patients completed the Short Form 12-question Health Survey and Harris Hip Score preoperatively and at 4 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year postoperatively. The time-points at which the patient first drove and ambulated with a cane, without a cane, and without a limp were also collected. No incidents of dislocation occurred. Patients in the early group were faster to ambulate with only a cane (
P
=.03), without a cane (
P
<.001), and without a limp (
P
=.003). They also drove earlier (
P
=.02). Pace of recovery was the only significant difference between the 2 groups. The early rehabilitation protocol increases the pace of recovery compared to a pathway with hip precautions without increasing complications.
Anatomic Variance of Interfacet Distance and Its Relationship to Facet Arthrosis and Disk Degeneration in the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Eubanks Jason David , Toy Jason O. , Messerschmitt Patrick , Cooperman Daniel R. , Ahn Nicholas U.
Published: December 2009

Inadequate separation of the L4-S1 facets predisposes individuals to spondylolytic defects. We proposed that decreased interfacet separation is a risk factor for increased lumbar degenerative disease. This study examined the correlation between interfacet distance and degenerative disease of the lumbar spine.

Four hundred forty-four cadaveric lumbar spines were examined for evidence of lumbar facet arthrosis and disk degeneration. Arthrosis at each level was graded from 0 to 4 on a continuum from no arthritis to complete ankylosis. These results were then examined in relation to interfacet spread. Interfacet distances were measured at each level (L1-S1). The difference in interfacet spread (L4-S1) was then correlated to facet arthrosis and disk degeneration. In individuals younger than 50 years (n=251), increased interfacet spread (L4-S1) was associated with less facet arthrosis at the L5/Sl level (
P
<.05). Similarly, in individuals younger than 40 years (n=149), increased interfacet spread (L4-S1) was associated with less disk degeneration at the L5/S1 level (
P
<.03).

Insufficient increase in interfacet distances (L4-S1) correlates with a greater risk of developing and maintaining spondylolytic defects. Similarly, this study suggests that increased interfacet spread (L4-S1) protects against early degenerative changes at the L5/Sl level. The more pyramidal the L4-S1 facet cascade, the lower the arthrosis. This effect appears early in the degenerative process before facet arthrosis and disk degeneration have become ubiquitous. In individuals younger than 50 years, increased interfacet distance correlates with less L5/Sl facet arthrosis.
Posterior Thigh Compartment Syndrome as a Result of a Basketball Injury
Authors: Mallo Gregory C. , Stanat Scott J.C. , Al-Humadi Mohaned , Divaris Nicholas
Published: December 2009

Acute compartment syndrome of the thigh is a serious although rare occurrence that was sparsely documented in the orthopedic literature until Schwartz et al reported on a series of 21 cases. Although classically associated with high-energy femur fracture, thigh contusion, or the use of military anti-shock trousers, compartment syndrome of the thigh has recently been diagnosed in seemingly low-energy injuries.

A complete hamstring avulsion from its ischial origin during routine ambulation and rupture of the quadriceps tendon after a low-energy fall have been shown to result in compartment syndrome. In light of the potential medicolegal ramifications surrounding the diagnosis of compartment syndrome, emergency room consultations to rule out compartment syndrome are on the rise. Specifically, the time to fasciotomy was found to be linearly related to indemnity payment, and a fasciotomy performed within 8 hours was uniformly associated with a successful defense.

This article describes a case of a 29-year-old healthy man who developed posterior thigh compartment syndrome as a result of an intrasubstance tear of the biceps femoris muscle sustained while attempting a lay-up during a recreational basketball game. His posterior thigh compartment pressure measured 70 mm Hg and he required emergent posterior thigh compartment fasciotomy.
Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Patient With Hardcastle Syndrome
Authors: Jamil Wiqqas , Allami Mohammad K. , Mbakada Nikita , Kluge Wolfram
Published: December 2009

Diaphyseal medullary stenosis is a rare skeletal dysplasia of unknown etiology with potential autosomal dominant genetic inheritance. A variant of diaphyseal medullary stenosis has been associated with a high risk of malignant transformation, specifically in the form of malignant fibrous histiocytoma. This potential combination of diaphyseal medullary stenosis and malignant fibrous histiocytoma is known as Hardcastle syndrome.

This article presents a case of a 32-year-old man with osteoarthrosis of the knee as a consequence of Hardcastle syndrome for which he underwent a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a satisfactory outcome. Our case demonstrates pathological and radiological signs of skull involvement, which has not previously been reported in the literature as a manifestation of this condition.

We discuss the differential diagnoses of diaphyseal dysplasia that should be considered in such cases and advocate the use of a triad of preoperative radiological investigations, including early thallium isotope bone, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography. We also discuss the use of long-stemmed prostheses, extramedullary femoral alignment, and the concerns of using Computer Assisted Surgery for total knee arthroplasty in patients with diaphyseal medullary stenosis.

With the short-term success of TKA in Hardcastle syndrome, we found that TKA could be considered as an alternative treatment option in symptomatic patients. However, due to the fact that the potential for malignant transformation in this syndrome is unchanged by a TKA, the patient should remain under close clinical and radiological follow-up.
Solitary Pelvic Osteochondroma Causing L5 Nerve Root Compression
Authors: Kim Whoan Jeang , Kim Kap Jung , Lee Sang Ki , Choy Won-Sik
Published: December 2009

Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumor, accounting for more than one-third of all benign bone tumors. It usually develops at the metaphysis of the long bones, especially the distal femur and proximal tibia. Approximately 40% of osteochondromas are found around the knee. Osteochondroma commonly presents as a painless mass and is incidentally identified via plain radiographs. Thus, surgical excision is not routinely recommended unless the tumor causes clinical symptoms or cosmetic distress.

Osteochondroma located in the pelvis is unusual. Spinal nerve root compressions due to pelvic osteochondroma are also rarely reported. We assessed the solitary pelvic osteochondroma of a 33-year-old man mimicking spinal disease. An exostotic bony projection composed of dense calcification of the cartilaginous cap arose from the iliac crest, which was located just lateral to the right sacroiliac joint in the paravertebral area, L5 level. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an irregular, exophytic outgrowing calcified mass with cartilage cap and exostotic mass compressed to the proximal part of the right L5 nerve root lateral to the nerve root foramen. The L5 nerve root was focally compressed and thinned.

En bloc excision, the treatment of choice of symptomatic osteochondroma, was performed. The patient had complete resolution of symptoms postoperatively, and other neurologic symptoms may be expected to improve over time.
Symptomatic Loose Bodies of the Knee Located in a Popliteal Cyst
Authors: Froelich John M. , Hillard-Sembell Diane
Published: December 2009

Locating loose bodies in a knee arthroscopically can be challenging. Common locations for loose bodies to hide include the lateral and medial gutters as well as under the menisci. In 1986, Fergusson and Burge reported a single case of a loose body intermittently traveling between the intracapsular space and an extracapsular popliteal cyst. This article describes a similar event involving a 22-year-old man.

Our patient experienced recurrent symptomatic loose bodies in the knee requiring previous knee arthroscopies. Most recently the patient had a radiographically documented and clinically symptomatic intra-articular knee loose body prior to surgery. Initial basic diagnostic knee arthroscopy did not reveal the loose body. On further arthroscopic evaluation of the posteromedial compartment of the knee, a capsular opening to a popliteal cyst was discovered. An accessory posteromedial portal was then used to directly visualize the contents of the cyst. Three loose bodies capable of traveling between the cyst and the joint were discovered. Transillumination allowed for safe localization of the cyst and subsequent percutaneous removal of the loose bodies under direct arthroscopic visualization.

We recommend direct arthroscopic visualization of the posteromedial and posterolateral compartments of the knee when a known loose body cannot be located during basic diagnostic knee arthroscopy.
Extraskeletal Myxoid Chondrosarcoma: Rare Presentation in the Knee Joint Space
Authors: Alexander Gerald E. , Henderson Eric R. , Rodriguez Alexa R. , Bui Marilyn M. , Cheong David , Letson G. Douglas
Published: December 2009

Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma is a malignant cartilage tumor that rarely presents in the joint space. This article presents a case of a man who presented with a 1-year history of continuous growth of a mass over the medial aspect of his right knee. Radiographs demonstrated osteoarthritis, and arthroscopy was performed for degenerative joint disease. At the time of surgery, an intra-articular mass was encountered and an unplanned biopsy was performed. Pathological analysis revealed the mass to be a primary extraskeletal, intra-articular chondrosarcoma. He had no history of malignancy. He underwent extra-articular resection of the lesion and reconstruction with endoprosthesis. The patient's clinical course required multiple re-operations, and pulmonary metastases developed. A gastrocnemius flap was performed for wound coverage in proximity to the resected arthroscopy portals.

This case emphasizes the importance of proper preoperative imaging and planning for lesion biopsies. Proper initial management may have led to lesser overall morbidity. Review of the literature reveals that this is the only reported case of a primary intraarticular extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma.
Mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant SkQR1 selectively protects MDR (Pgp 170)‐negative cells against oxidative stress
Authors: Fetisova Elena K. , Avetisyan Armine V. , Izyumov Denis S. , Korotetskaya Mariya V. , Chernyak Boris V. , Skulachev Vladimir P.
Published: December 2009

A conjugate of plastoquinone with decylrhodamine 19 (SkQR1) selectively accumulates in mitochondria of normal and tumor cells. SkQR1 protected the cellular pool of reduced glutathione under oxidative stress. Overexpression of P‐glycoprotein (Pgp 170) multidrug resistance pump strongly suppresses accumulation of SkQR1. The inhibitors of Pgp 170 stimulate accumulation of SkQR1 in various cell lines indicating that SkQR1 is a substrate of Pgp 170. The protective effect of SkQR1 against oxidative stress is diminished in the cells overexpressing Pgp 170. It is suggested that mitochondria‐targeted antioxidants could selectively protect normal (Pgp 170‐negative) cells against the toxic effect of anti‐cancer treatments related to oxidative stress.
The scholarly exchange of knowledge in Operations Management
Authors: Linderman Kevin , Chandrasekaran Aravind
Published: December 2009

A number of studies have investigated the quality of journals in Operations Management. This research steps back from these studies and investigates the exchange of ideas within Operations Management journals and between other management disciplines (Management, Marketing, and Finance) during the last decade (1998–2007). Journal citation metrics provide a measure for the exchange of scholarly ideas. Operations Management (OM) journals show a willingness to cross‐pollinate ideas with other management disciplines. But, they also tend to have a higher level of self citations and lower level of within discipline citation exchanges when compared to other management disciplines. As a result, Operations Management journals may reflect methodological silos in the field that could potentially dampen scholarly exchange. In general, increasing the diversity of scholarly exchanges within Operations Management, and conducting more cross‐disciplinary research with other management disciples should improve the scholarly development of Operations Management.
Climate change since 11.5 ka on the Diancang Massif on the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Jiangqiang , Zhang Wei , Cui Zhijiu , Yi Chaolu , Chen Yixin , Xu Xiangke
Published: December 2009

The Diancang Massif is located in a region linking the Tibetan and Yungui Plateaus. Climatically, it is in a transition belt between the south and middle subtropical zones, controlled by Indian monsoon and westerlies. Thus, this study provides more evidences on the evolution of Indian monsoon since the Holocene. We reconstruct the history of climate on the Diancang Massif since 11.5 ka, using integrated correlation of glacial activities, early human settlement sites, and climate proxies abstracted from variations in grain size, magnetic susceptibility, geochemical composition, and pollen in lacustrine sediments. Six climatic stages have been identified. Stage I, from 11.5 ka to 9.0 ka, is a relatively wet period, corresponding to the onset of the Holocene; from 9.5 ka to 6.0 ka, the climate is arid; a cold period follows from 6.0 ka to 5.3 ka, and this is succeeded by a temperate stage from 5.3 ka to 4.0 ka; from 4.0 ka to 0.73 ka the climate is again arid. Compared with other regions dominated by the Indian monsoon, there is a delay in response of the climate on the Diancang Massif to the onset of the Holocene.
Simulating the effects of grassland management and grass ensiling on methane emission from lactating cows
Authors: BANNINK A. , SMITS M. C. J. , KEBREAB E. , MILLS J. A. N. , ELLIS J. L. , KLOP A. , FRANCE J. , DIJKSTRA J.
Published: December 2009

A dynamic, mechanistic model of enteric fermentation was used to investigate the effect of type and quality of grass forage, dry matter intake (DMI) and proportion of concentrates in dietary dry matter (DM) on variation in methane (CH4) emission from enteric fermentation in dairy cows. The model represents substrate degradation and microbial fermentation processes in rumen and hindgut and, in particular, the effects of type of substrate fermented and of pH on the production of individual volatile fatty acids and CH4as end-products of fermentation. Effects of type and quality of fresh and ensiled grass were evaluated by distinguishing two N fertilization rates of grassland and two stages of grass maturity. Simulation results indicated a strong impact of the amount and type of grass consumed on CH4emission, with a maximum difference (across all forage types and all levels of DMI) of 49 and 77% in g CH4/kg fat and protein corrected milk (FCM) for diets with a proportion of concentrates in dietary DM of 0·1 and 0·4, respectively (values ranging from 10·2 to 19·5 g CH4/kg FCM). The lowest emission was established for early cut, high fertilized grass silage (GS) and high fertilized grass herbage (GH). The highest emission was found for late cut, low-fertilized GS. The N fertilization rate had the largest impact, followed by stage of grass maturity at harvesting and by the distinction between GH and GS. Emission expressed in g CH4/kg FCM declined on average 14% with an increase of DMI from 14 to 18 kg/day for grass forage diets with a proportion of concentrates of 0·1, and on average 29% with an increase of DMI from 14 to 23 kg/day for diets with a proportion of concentrates of 0·4. Simulation results indicated that a high proportion of concentrates in dietary DM may lead to a further reduction of CH4emission per kg FCM mainly as a result of a higher DMI and milk yield, in comparison to low concentrate diets. Simulation results were evaluated against independent data obtained at three different laboratories in indirect calorimetry trials with cows consuming GH mainly. The model predicted the average of observed values reasonably, but systematic deviations remained between individual laboratories and root mean squared prediction error was a proportion of 0·12 of the observed mean. Both observed and predicted emission expressed in g CH4/kg DM intake decreased upon an increase in dietary N:organic matter (OM) ratio. The model reproduced reasonably well the variation in measured CH4emission in cattle sheds on Dutch dairy farms and indicated that on average a fraction of 0·28 of the total emissions must have originated from manure under these circumstances.
In vitromanipulation of gene expression in larvalSchistosoma: a model for postgenomic approaches in Trematoda
Authors: YOSHINO TIMOTHY P. , DINGUIRARD NATHALIE , DE MORAES MOURÃO MARINA
Published: December 2009

With rapid developments in DNA and protein sequencing technologies, combined with powerful bioinformatics tools, a continued acceleration of gene identification in parasitic helminths is predicted, potentially leading to discovery of new drug and vaccine targets, enhanced diagnostics and insights into the complex biology underlying host-parasite interactions. For the schistosome blood flukes, with the recent completion of genome sequencing and comprehensive transcriptomic datasets, there has accumulated massive amounts of gene sequence data, for which, in the vast majority of cases, little is known about actual functions within the intact organism. In this review we attempt to bring together traditionalin vitrocultivation approaches and recent emergent technologies of molecular genomics, transcriptomics and genetic manipulation to illustrate the considerable progress made in our understanding of trematode gene expression and function during development of the intramolluscan larval stages. Using several prominent trematode families (Schistosomatidae, Fasciolidae, Echinostomatidae), we have focused on the current status ofin vitrolarval isolation/cultivation as a source of valuable raw material supporting gene discovery efforts in model digeneans that include whole genome sequencing, transcript and protein expression profiling during larval development, and progress made in thein vitromanipulation of genes and their expression in larval trematodes using transgenic and RNA interference (RNAi) approaches.
High levels of oxidative stress in rats infected withBlastocystis hominis
Authors: CHANDRAMATHI S. , SURESH K. , SHUBA S. , MAHMOOD A. , KUPPUSAMY U. R.
Published: December 2009

Objective:Numerous studies have revealed the presence of oxidative stress in parasitic infections. However, such studies were lacking in the Malaysian population. Previously, we have provided evidence that oxidative stress is elevated in Malaysians infected with intestinal parasites. Stool examinations revealed that about 47·5% of them were infected with the polymorphic protozoa,Blastocystis hominis. However, they were found to have mixed infection with other intestinal parasites.Methodology:Therefore, in order to investigate the role ofB. hominisalone in affecting oxidative stress status, here we compared the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in urine and blood samples between uninfected andB. hominis-infected rats.Results:Infected rats exhibited elevated levels of oxidative indices namely advanced oxidative protein products (AOPP), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and lipid hydroperoxide (LHP) indicating that their overall oxidative damage level was higher. Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) was elevated at the initial stage of infection but decreased significantly during the last week of study duration suggesting that the antioxidant status of the host may be overwhelmed by oxidative damage.Conclusion:To date, this is the first comprehensivein vivostudy to provide evidence forBlastocystisinfection to correlate with significant oxidative burst leading to oxidative stress.
Anthelmintic activity of some Mediterranean browse plants against parasitic nematodes
Authors: MANOLARAKI F. , SOTIRAKI S. , STEFANAKIS A. , SKAMPARDONIS V. , VOLANIS M. , HOSTE H.
Published: December 2009

The anthelmintic properties of tannin-rich plants are being explored as an alternative to chemical drugs. Most data have been acquired on legume forages, but only few on browse plants. The present study aimed to (i) screen the in vitro effects of extracts from 7 Mediterranean plants on Haemonchus contortus, (ii) verify the role of tannins using an inhibitor, polyvinyl polypyrrolidone (PVPP) and (iii) verify the in vivo effects of extracts from 4 plants. Significant inhibition was shown in vitro using a larval migration inhibition (LMI) assay for all extracts except that from Olea europaea var. koroneiki. After adding PVPP, the LMI values were restored to control levels for all plants except Pistacia lentiscus and Ceratonia siliqua, confirming a role for tannins in the activity. In the in vivo experiment, 48 lambs composed 6 groups, depending on diet. On Day 0, groups G1–G5 received H. contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis larvae and G6 remained uninfected. The various diets were distributed from Days 14 to 45: P. lentiscus (G1), Quercus coccifera (G2), C. siliqua (G3), Onobrychis viciifolia (G4), or Medicago sativa for the 2 control groups (G5, G6). Egg excretion, packed cell volumes (PCVs) and inorganic phosphate were measured weekly throughout the entire experimental period. At slaughter, the worms were enumerated and their fecundity assessed. Consumption of the 4 browser plants did not provoke differences in pathophysiological measurements but there were significant decreases in egg excretion, mainly explained by significant decreases in worm fecundity for both species, without any statistical difference in worm numbers.
Migration and site selection of Ornithodiplostomum ptychocheilus (Trematoda: Digenea) metacercariae in the brain of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas)
Authors: MATISZ CHELSEA E. , GOATER CAMERON P. , BRAY DOUGLAS
Published: December 2009

The migration of subadult parasites to preferred sites within final hosts is well characterized. In contrast, the migration of larval stages of trematodes to specific sites within their second intermediate hosts is poorly understood. We used a serial necropsy approach to characterize the migration of Ornithodiplostomum ptychocheilus diplostomules from the point of cercarial penetration, to encystment within the outermost tissues of the brain of fathead minnows. Diplostomules utilized peripheral nerves to access the central nerve cord, or they used specific cranial nerves to directly access the brain. Within 3 h of exposure to cercariae, 46% of all diplostomules were observed within the medulla of the brain. Diplostomules subsequently utilized specific neural tracts to reach lateral regions of the outermost tissue layer of the optic lobes, the stratum marginale. Diplostomules remained in this layer during their 4-week growth phase, then shifted site to the adjacent meninges for encystment. Characterization of a habitat shift for developing versus encysted metacercariae helps explain the results of previous ecological studies that document transient changes in the effects of metacercariae on the surivival, behaviour, and anti-parasite defences of infected fish.
Molecular characterization of fiveSarcocystisspecies in red deer (Cervus elaphus), includingSarcocystis hjortin. sp., reveals that these species are not intermediate host specific
Authors: DAHLGREN STINA S. , GJERDE BJØRN
Published: December 2009

Muscle tissue from 37 red deer from Norway was examined for sarcocysts. Sarcocysts from 2 reindeer were obtained for comparative studies. Cysts were excised and morphologically classified by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and DNA sequence analysis. FiveSarcocystisspecies,Sarcocystis hjortin. sp.,Sarcocystis hardangeri, Sarcocystis ovalis, Sarcocystis rangiferi, andSarcocystis tarandi, were found. All 5 species have previously been identified from either reindeer or moose by their sarcocyst morphology and/or ssu rRNA gene sequence.S. hjortiwas the most prevalent species. Multiple variants of the ssu rRNA gene and the first internal transcribed spacer were found inS. rangiferiandS. tarandifrom both red deer and reindeer. Phylogenetic analyses indicated thatS. tarandioccurs in both red deer and reindeer, but it could not be clearly demonstrated whether the sequence variation withinS. rangiferibetween hosts was due to different paralogues or/and different species. DNA sequencing was necessary for definitive species identification, since the hair-like protrusions on the cysts ofS. hjortiwere not always recognizable by light microscopy and since different cervids harbourSarcocystisspecies with highly similar cyst morphology of which at least some are not intermediate host specific.
Two-year-old phonology: impact of input, motor and cognitive abilities on development
Authors: DODD BARBARA , McINTOSH BETH
Published: December 2009

Previous research has rarely compared the contributions of different underlying abilities to phonological acquisition. In this study, the auditory-visual speech perception, oro-motor and rule abstraction skills of 62 typically developing two-year olds were assessed and contrasted with the accuracy of their spoken phonology. Measures included auditory-visual speech perception, production of isolated and sequenced oro-motor movements, and verbal and non-verbal rule abstraction. Abilities in all three domains contributed to phonological acquisition. However, the use of atypical phonological rules was associated with lower levels of phonological accuracy and a linear regression indicated that this measure of rule abstraction had greater explanatory power than the measures of input processing and output skill.
Local meteorological conditions, dynamics of seroconversion to Toxoplasma gondii in cats (Felis catus) and oocyst burden in a rural environment
Authors: AFONSO E. , THULLIEZ P. , GILOT-FROMONT E.
Published: December 2009

The aim of this study was to analyse the spatio-temporal dynamics of Toxoplasma gondii infection in long-term monitoring of domestic cats (8–15 years) in three populations living in rural France. Overall seroprevalence was 52·7% (modified agglutination test ⩾1:40). Incidence was 0·26–0·39 seroconversions/cat per year, and the estimated rate of soil contamination by T. gondii oocysts ranged between 31 and 3600 oocysts/m2 per year, depending on the population. Incidence risk in cats was related to mean precipitation, explaining both the spatial and temporal variability in risk: local conditions explained differences between the three study sites and incidence risk increased during rainy years. This study brings rare quantitative information on the level of contamination of the environment by T. gondii oocysts, and suggests that the spatio-temporal distribution of incidence risk in cats may reflect both the influence of rain on prey populations and infectivity of T. gondii oocysts.
Staphylococcal cassette chromosomemec(SCCmec) in methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci. A review and the experience in a tertiary-care setting
Authors: GARZA-GONZÁLEZ E. , MORFÍN-OTERO R. , LLACA-DÍAZ J. M. , RODRIGUEZ-NORIEGA E.
Published: December 2009

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) are increasingly recognized to cause clinically significant infections, withS. epidermidisoften cited as the third most common cause of nosocomial sepsis. Among CNS, there is a high prevalence of methicillin resistance associated with staphylococcal cassette chromosome (SCCmec) elements. Although identical SCCmectypes can exist inS. aureusand CNS, some novel classes of SCCmecmay be unique to CNS. Differences in the accuracy of identification of CNS species and use of non-standardized methods for the detection of methicillin resistance have led to confusing data in the literature. In addition to the review of SCCmecin CNS, in this paper we report a 2-year surveillance of methicillin-resistant CNS in a tertiary-care hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico.
An approach to the formal specification of lingware
Authors: GARGOURI BILEL , JMAIEL MOHAMED , HAMADOU ABDELMAJID BEN
Published: December 2009

This paper has two purposes. First, it suggests a formal approach for specifying and verifying lingware. This approach is based on a unified notation of the main existing formalisms for describing linguistic knowledge (i.e. Formal Grammars, Unification Grammars, HPSG, etc.) on the one hand, and the integration of data and processing on the other. Accordingly, a lingware specification includes all related aspects in a unified framework. This facilitates the development of a lingware system, since one has to follow a single development process instead of two separate ones. Secondly, it presents an environment for the formal specification of lingware, based on the suggested approach, which is neither restricted to a particular kind of application nor to a particular class of linguistic formalisms. This environment provides interfaces enabling the specification of both linguistic knowledge and functional aspects of a lingware system. Linguistic knowledge is specified with the usual grammatical formalisms, whereas functional aspects are specified with a suitable formal notation. Both descriptions will be integrated into the same framework to obtain a complete requirement specification that can be refined towards an executable program.
Structured surveillance of patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease after peripheral vascular interventions
Authors: Weiss  , Bergert
Published: December 2009

Longterm follow-up and surveillance after either an endovascular or an open surgical vascular intervention is an essential part of the angiologist’s or vascular surgeon’s care for patients with peripheral arterial disease. This includes diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors, selection and monitoring of antiplatelet and/or anticoagulant therapy after revascularization, and surveillance of the results of the vascular intervention. This integrated approach to patients’ care will improve patients’ prognosis quoad vitam and quoad extremitatem and their quality of life. We summarize the rationale and evidence-based practical approaches and guidelines for structured long term surveillance of patients with peripheral arterial disease after a vascular intervention.
Surgical reconstructions in peripheral arterial occlusive disease
Authors: Debus  , Lohrenz  , Diener  , Winkler  , Larena-Avellaneda
Published: December 2009

The prognosis of patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAD) is directly correlated with the severity of the disease. In critically ischemic legs, after one year only 50 % will be alive with a preserved leg. The other 50 % will die or undergo an amputation during this time. Reconstructive surgery is highly effective in PAD caused by extensive arterial lesions. Depending on the localization of the occlusion, operative procedures range from local desobliteration to profundoplasty and from aortofemoral to femorodistal bypass procedures. Especially in critical ischemia, time is of the essence for limb salvage. Evidence-based data for diagnosis and operative treatment are described in detail. Only the consequent use of these critical techniques can improve the prognosis of these patients.
Computer and internet use in vascular outpatients - ready for interactive applications?
Authors: Richter  , Schneider  , Klein-Weigel
Published: December 2009

Background: Exploring patients’ computer and internet use, their expectations and attitudes is mandatory for successful introduction of interactive online health-care applications in Angiology. Patients and methods: We included 165 outpatients suffering from peripheral arterial disease (PAD; n = 62) and chronic venous and / or lymphatic disease (CVLD; n = 103) in a cross-sectional-study. Patients answered a paper-based questionnaire. Results: Patients were predominantly female (54.5 %). 142 (86.1 %) reported regular computer use for 9.7 ± 5.8 years and 134 (81.2 %) used the internet for 6.2 ± 3.6 years. CVLD-patients and internet-user were younger and higher educated, resulting in a significant difference in computer and internet use between the disease groups (p < 0.01 for both). Time spent online summed up to 4.3 ± 2.2 days per week and 1.44 ± 1.2 hours per day for all internet users without significant differences between the groups. The topics retrieved from the internet covered a wide spectrum and searches for health information were mentioned by 41.2 %. Although confidence in the internet (3.3 ± 1.1 on a 1-6 Likert scale) and reliability in information retrieved from the internet (3.1 ± 1.1) were relatively low, health-related issues were of high actual and future interest. 42.8 % of the patients were even interested in interactive applications like health educational programs, 37.4 % in self-reported assessments and outcome questionnaires and 26.9 % in chatforums; 50 % demanded access to their medical data on an Internetserver. Compared to older participants those < 50 yrs. used the internet more often for shopping, chatting, and e-mailing, but not for health information retrieval and interactive applications. Conclusions: Computers are commonly used and the internet has been adopted as an important source of information by patients suffering from PAD and CVLD. Besides, the internet offers great potentials and new opportunities for interactive disease (self-)management in angiology. To increase confidence and reliability in the medium a careful introduction and evaluation of these new online applications is mandatory.
Long-term outcome of patients with mild intermittent claudication under secondary prevention
Authors: Taute  , Thommes  , Taute  , Rapmund  , Lindner  , Podhaisky
Published: December 2009

Background: The known natural history of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is determined by the generalization of atherosclerosis with resulting high cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of this prospective study was to record all vascular and non-vascular events in patients with mild intermittent claudication (IC) undergoing secondary preventive measures in a 10-year follow-up and to determine the time-points at which systemic localizations of atherosclerotic events develop. Patients and methods: Patients who originally had an isolated Fontaine stage IIa PAD were included in the follow-up which involved assessments carried out on an annual basis. The incidence and timepoints of vascular (i.e., myocardial infarction, stroke, critical limb ischemia, vascular death), and nonvascular events (i.e., cancer, non vascular death) were recorded and compared with the known natural history. Results: 534 events (vascular: 433) concerning 109 claudicants (M/F: 88/21; 60.8 ± 8.8 years; ABI 0.66 ± 0.11) were recorded over an average follow-up period of 104 months. 25.7% of the claudicants died, 39% due to vascular events, 36% due to cancer disease and 25% due to other events. A deterioration of PAD (n = 108) was the most frequent event after 20 months, followed by angina pectoris (n = 41) and cancer diseases (n = 20) after 42 and 45 months, stroke (n = 19) after 58 months, myocardial infarction (n = 12) after 63 months, and finally critical limb ischemia (n = 27) and amputations (n = 10) after 80 and 114 months (median). 111 revascularizations were carried out. 62.3% of the claudicants developed a polyvascular disease, with 20% in a trivascular territory. Conclusions: A high vascular comorbidity also develops under secondary prevention as an expression of the continuing generalization of the atherosclerotic process in PAD. The causes for death are determined both by the vascular and the tumor related comorbidity.
Significance of infection markers and microbiological findings during tissue processing of cryopreserved arterial homografts for the early postoperative course
Authors: Bisdas  , Mattner  , Ott  , Pichlmaier  , Wilhelmi  , Haverich  , Teebken
Published: December 2009

Background: To evaluate homograft implantation for the urgent treatment of vascular infections on the basis of the course of infection using microbiological findings in perioperatively obtained specimens and during homograft processing. Patients and methods: 85 patients were treated with cryopreserved homografts from 2004-2007. The microbiological findings of the decontamination process of homografts in the tissue bank were evaluated. The perioperative infection profile (microorganisms, CRP, leukocytes, body temperature) of the patients was analysed. Results: Complete microbiological and clinical follow-up for the postoperative course was available for 35 patients, who were treated with homografts from the same tissue bank and finally included into this study. 55 cryopreserved homografts were implanted. 35 / 55 (64 %) homografts were positive for microorganisms before decontamination. 3 / 35 (9 %) homografts remained positive after the decontamination. 33 patients were operated for prosthetic graft infection and 2 for an infiltration of a large vessel from neighbouring malignant disease. The most common infection agent was Staphylococcus aureus. Thirty-day mortality was 20 % (7 / 35). Only in 4 / 35 (11 %) patients were the microorganisms of the intraoperative swabs also detected during the postoperative course. The microorganisms were ORSA, Enterococcus faecium, Enterobacter aerogenes and Burkholderia cepacia. The patient with ORSA infection died on POD 11 from multiple organ failure and all other patients recovered. None of the postoperative swabs showed the homograft predecontamination microorganisms. Interestingly, a significant association (P = 0.003) between C-reactive protein increase two weeks after surgery and donor-recipient ABO mismatch was found. Conclusions: The implantation of homografts following the established decontamination is an alternative urgent therapeutic option in vascular infections with encouraging outcomes. The absence of the predecontamination focus in the postoperative specimens of patients, suggests that the postoperative course and outcomes show no strong relation to potential homograft contamination prior to the decontamination process.
Successful surgical treatment of Nicolau’s syndrome combined with intravenous iloprost
Authors: Gormus  , Tanyeli  , Senaran  , Duman  , Solak Görmüs  , Durgut
Published: December 2009

A 4 year-old boy was admitted to our clinic with symptoms of pain and ecchymosis in his right leg and foot after injection of benzathine penicilline. There was a localized gangrenous area at the femoral injection site. Doppler ultrasonography showed no arterial flow in the femoral artery and clear evidence of acute thrombosis of the superficial femoral and popliteal veins. Femoral arterial and venous thrombectomy and fasciotomy were performed immediately. After surgery the boy was treated by Iloprost infusion and enoxaparine. One week later necrotic changes had regressed, fasciotomies were closed and only the distal phalanx of the third toe needed amputation. Early surgical intervention and standard management combined with Iloprost infusion may help in healing the lesions by increasing extremity perfusion and may prevent extremity loss.
Occlusion of the celiac trunk, the inferior mesenteric artery and stenosis of the superior mesenteric artery in peripheral thrombangiitis obliterans
Authors: Çakmak  , Gyedu  , Akyol  , Kepenekçi İ. , Köksoy
Published: December 2009

Buerger‘s disease is an inflammatory occlusive disease which commonly involves medium-sized or smaller vessels of extremities. Mesenteric involvement in Buerger‘s disease is very rare. It can occur at any time during the course of the disease and presents with acute mesenteric ischaemia. In this study, a case of Buerger‘s disease with mesenteric involvement diagnosed before the onset of acute mesenteric ischaemia and managed endovascularly is reported.
How Goals and Beliefs Lead People into and Out of Depression
Authors: Rothbaum Fred , Morling Beth , Rusk Natalie
Published: December 2009

There is evidence that beliefs (cognitive vulnerabilities) and goals (to prove self-worth) contribute to depression but little consideration of how they work in tandem. Synthesizing research on beliefs and goals leads us to four propositions: (a) People with cognitive vulnerabilities often adopt self-worth goals (seeking to prove self-worth and to avoid proof of worthlessness). People with the opposite beliefs often adopt learning goals. (b) Stressors trigger depression largely because they lead people with self-worth goals to focus narrowly on goals to avoid proof of worthlessness. The same stressors do not lead people with learning goals to become depressed. (c) People with goals to avoid proof of worthlessness adopt defensive self-handicapping behaviors (e.g., effort withdrawal, rumination) when dealing with stressors, because those behaviors serve their goals. The same stressors lead people with learning goals to adopt constructive, problem-solving strategies. (d) A key to alleviating depression is fostering a shift from self-worth goals to learning goals and from the beliefs underlying self-worth goals to the opposite beliefs.
The “Other IQ”: Historiometric Assessments of Intelligence and Related Constructs
Authors: Simonton Dean Keith
Published: December 2009

Running parallel to mainstream research on the psychometric assessment of intelligence is another tradition of research on the historiometric assessment of intelligence and closely affiliated variables. Historiometric assessment is based on four data sources: (a) personality sketches (e.g., Intellectual Brilliance), (b) developmental histories (e.g., IQ), (c) content analyses (e.g., integrative complexity), and (d) expert surveys (e.g., Openness to Experience). The first two represent major lines of intelligence research that involved key figures in the development of corresponding psychometric methods (e.g., Galton, Terman, and Thorndike), whereas the last two constitute independent research paradigms that later intersected with the first two. The literature on U.S. presidents then provides an integrated illustration of the four historiometric approaches and how they converge on the same broad conclusions. Significantly, historiometric investigations on the relation between broadly defined intelligence and adulthood achievement obtain about the same effect size as that found in psychometric research (i.e., rs or βs = .25 ± .10). Because historiometric and psychometric studies have rather distinctive methodological advantages and disadvantages, this consistent outcome provides corroborative support for both sets of empirical findings.