bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Male Group Dynamics and Inter‐male Aggression of Guanacos in Southern Chile1)
Authors: Wilson Paul , Franklin William L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract and Summary

Group dynamics and aggressive behavior of guanaco (Lama guanicoe) male groups (MGs) were described and quantified. All‐male groups consisted of yearling, subadult, and adult males. Yearlings joined MGs from early Sep. to Feb., but the majority entered groups in Dec. and Jan. Adult males dispersed from MGs in Jan. and Feb. to establish or challenge tor territories. Young females were occasionally observed in MGs, but not during the height of the breeding season.

Aggressive activity rates peaked in Jan., and older males were more aggressively active than younger males, initiating more threats and receiving fewer. After the breeding season, rates of aggression decreased but mean durations of two ear threats increased, suggesting that threats may replace energetically costly fighting as a sign of increased aggressiveness. Guanaco fighting style was similar to that of Equidae, in that fights proceeded in an unpredictable manner to unbalance and bite the opponent. The guanaco chest‐ram was hypothesized to be a ritualized behavior that coevolved with the large camelid canine teeth. Male guanacos spend 3–4 years in all‐male groups where they assess size and fighting ability via chest‐rams and playfighting, thus presumably improving fighting skills that may ultimately affect reproductive success. Comparisons with horned ungulates are also discussed.

Die Arbeit beschreibt und quantifiziert die Gruppendynamik und das aggressive Verhalten in Guanako‐Männchengruppen. Diese Gruppen (max. 167 Tiere) enthalten Jährlinge, Jugendliche und Adulte. Die Jährlinge stoßen von September bis Februar (die meisten im Dezember bis Januar) hinzu, die Adulten verlassen die Gruppen im Januar und Februar., um Reviere zu besetzen. Gelegentlich sieht man auch junge Weibchen in diesen Gruppen, aber nicht wahrend der Hauptfortpflanzungszeit.

Aggressives Verhalten kulminiert im Januar, bei den alten ist es stärker ausgeprägt als bei jungen Männchen; je älter, desto mehr Drohungen teilen sie aus, desto weniger Drohungen empfangen sie, und desto häufiger werden drohende Ohrstellungen. Nach der Fortpflanzungszeit werden Aggressionen sel‐tener, zwei bestimmte Ohren‐Drohungen nehmen aber an Dauer zu, wahr‐scheinlich stellvertretend für energieaufwendiges Kämpfen. Kämpfe verlaufen — wie bei Equiden — unvoraussagbar und zielen darauf, den Gegner zu beißen und aus dem Gleichgewicht zu bringen. Guanakos haben mehr Dominanzgesten und tauschen sie häufiger aus als gehörnte Ungulaten, die auch mehr ritualisierte Gesten haben. Das Bruststoßen der Guanakos hat sich wohl zusammen mit den großen Canini der Kamelartigen entwickelt. Guanako‐Männchen verbringen 3–4 Jahre in Männchengruppen und lernen durch Bruststoßen und spielerisches Kämpfen ihre Größe einschätzen.
Evidence for Mate Choice in a Sulphur Butterfly (Colias eurytheme)
Authors: Rutowski Ronald L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract and Summary

Available information suggests that male alfalfa butterflies (Colias eurytheme) make a nutrient investment during copulation. Sexual selection theory predicts that females, to maximize the material they receive, should preferentially mate with large, young, persistent males. In addition, males, to maximize the return on their investment, are predicted to mate preferentially with large females. To test these predictions, observations were made on interactions between lab‐reared virgin females and males flying in the field. About half of all interactions ended in copulation. Analysis of the interactions revealed that: 1) young (fresh) males are more successful in courtship than old (worn) males, 2) males accepted by females are significantly less variable in size than males rejected by females, 3) persistence increases, up to a point, a male's chances of attaining copulation, and 4) the size of females accepted by males is less variable than that of rejected females. These results support the predictions in part but leave unanswered questions about why exceptionally large conspecific individuals are unattractive to members of both sexes.

Die Interaktionen noch unbesamter Weibchen von Colias eurytheme mit umherfliegenden Männchen lassen vermuten, daß beide Geschlechter in der “Balz”‐Phase eine Partnerwahl treffen. Weibchen paaren sich bevorzugt mit frischgeschlüpften Männchen mittlerer Größe, die das fliegende Weibchen 7–10 s lang oder das sitzende Weibchen 4–5 s lang umbalzen. Diese Alters‐und Größenbevorzugung zeigt sich auch an verpaarten — im Gegensatz zu einzeln gefangenen — Männchen. Männchen bevorzugen mittelgroße Weibchen.
The Timing of Mating by Postpartum Estrous Rats
Authors: Hedricks Cynthia , McClintock Martha K.
Published: August 2010

Abstract and Summary

In Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) postpartum copulation began later, and was more rapid than mating during a cycling estrus. Faster postpartum mating was a result of shorter intervals between intromissions, rather than fewer intromissions. In addition, postpartum pairs showed a trend towards fewer ejaculatory series. Postpartum female sexual initiation and her attractiveness to the male produced rapid postpartum mating. Preliminary evidence indicates that pups' presence does not determine faster postpartum mating, yet postpartum females did exhibit time‐sharing relationships between their mating and maternal demands. We hypothesize that the rapid pace of postpartum mating is produced by intrinsic neuroendocrine changes characteristic of postpartum estrus and possibly by sexual experience.
Urine Washing Behavior in the Woolly Spider Monkey (Brachyteles arachnoides)
Authors: Milton Katharine
Published: August 2010

Abstract and Summary

Free‐ranging woolly spider monkeys of both sexes deposit urine on the hand, foot or tail. The eliciting stimulus for this behavior in females is unknown. In males, it frequently appears to be the presence of a sexually receptive female or copulatory activity. Male and female woolly spider monkeys do not associate on any habitual daily basis and individual females may forage alone rather than with conspecifics. Given this fluid pattern of social structure, the most important function of urine washing for a female woolly spider monkey may be to advertise her state of sexual receptivity to any males passing over her foraging path. Males may use urine to facilitate individual recognition.
Interspecific Communication in Cooperative Herding: Acoustic and Visual Signals from Human Shepherds and Herding Dogs
Authors: McConnell Patricia B. , Baylis Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract and Summary

Visual displays from dog to sheep and acoustic signals from shepherd to dog were analyzed during cooperative herding by human shepherds and Border collie dogs. Unlike other breeds, Border collies herded livestock by approaching it in the stalking posture of a hunting mammalian predator. Data on mature trained and immature untrained Border collies showed that the posture was innate, but was refined by training and experience. Selection for behavioral rather than morphological traits has resulted in stereotyped breed‐specific behavior but considerable morphologic variation. The whistle signal repertoires of 14 shepherd/dog herding teams showed a strong correlation between acoustic structures and messages of whistles that intended to stimulate or inhibit the dog's activity toward stock. No correlation was found between acoustic structures used for directional messages. Stimulating signals were short, rapidly repeated notes, with a tendency to rise in frequency. Inhibiting signals were prolonged, descending single notes. Comparable acoustic structures in non‐human primate and avian repertoires suggest that the observed correlation is found in similar contexts in those groups. We hypothesize that the appropriate use of these acoustic structures increases the probability of the desired response from the canid receivers.
Melanoma diagnosis: Australian dermatologists' number needed to treat
Authors: Chia Alvin LK , Simonova Galina , Dutta Bish , Lim Adrian , Shumack Stephen
Published: August 2010

A retrospective audit of melanoma clinical diagnoses was undertaken for a group of 35 Australian dermatologists. This was compared with the histological diagnoses. In a 1‐year period, 195 of the 686 clinically suspicious lesions were histologically confirmed as melanoma. Therefore, the number needed to treat for histological referrals for melanoma is four for this group of dermatologists. In addition, we found that the sensitivity for the diagnosis of melanoma was 89.1% if we consider all lesions that are possibly clinically suspicious of melanoma. Our results suggest that the clinical diagnosis of melanoma may not be difficult for lesions that are clinically characteristic.
Cutaneous penile and perianal Crohn's disease treated with a combination of medical and surgical interventions
Authors: Rajpara Sanjay M , Siddha Sanjay K , Ormerod Anthony D , Kerr Keith M , Kolhe Prahalad S
Published: August 2010

A 73‐year‐old man presented with fistulizing cutaneous Crohn's disease of the penis and perianal area without involvement of the gastrointestinal tract. The disease failed to respond to topical clobetasol propionate and oral cyclosporin and methotrexate. A combination treatment of minocycline, thalidomide and prednisolone brought the disease under control and induced remission. Surgery with excision and skin grafting were required to produce cure.
Microsporum canis in a neonatal intensive care unit patient
Authors: Mulholland Adrian , Casey Terry , Cartwright David
Published: August 2010

A 45‐day‐old male neonate (born 25 weeks and 5 days) presented with an annular, erythematosquamous eruption covering the head, neck, trunk, upper limbs and thighs. The eruption most resembled tinea corporis, however unusual the setting. Routine fungal culture grew Microsporum canis. No contacts could be identified. No previous case of tinea corporis had been seen in this neonatal unit, and very few reports are in the literature, particularly regarding this zoophilic organism. Our patient cleared with topical miconazole 2% cream applied twice daily for 24 days. This case highlights the importance of considering dermatophyte infection even in neonatal intensive care.
Granular parakeratosis of multiple intertriginous areas
Authors: Burford Carol
Published: August 2010

A 60‐year‐old woman presented with a 4‐year history of a recurrent reddish‐brown macular eruption mainly involving the submammary and inguinal flexures and with transient involvement of the axillae. The eruption usually flared during winter and would settle spontaneously within a few months. At presentation, it had persisted longer than usual into the warmer weather and varied in clinical appearance over the time of observation, at times showing psoriasiform features and hyperkeratosis. Biopsy revealed features typical of granular parakeratosis. It was unresponsive to multiple topical and oral antifungal agents, oral antibiotic therapy, topical corticosteroids and emollients, but eventually resolved with a combination of 1% hydrocortisone cream and 1% clotrimazole cream to which the patient added a commercial topical vitamin E preparation.
Fingertip dermatitis refractory to topical corticosteroids associated with nail–patella syndrome
Authors: Sakata Shinichiro , Opie Jacinta , Howard Anne
Published: August 2010

A 14‐year‐old girl and her 47‐year‐old father presented with fingernails that were hypoplastic, spoon‐shaped and ridged since birth. Fingertip dermatitis and paronychia were also observed in the daughter, which had been present since birth and had progressively worsened. The daughter denied trauma to her fingernails or chronic exposure to irritants and allergens. She had previously tried topical corticosteroids for 18 months without any benefit. We put forward the possibility of chronic paronychia and fingertip dermatitis, refractory to topical corticosteroids, as associations of digital nail–patella syndrome.
Laptop computers and children with disabilities: Factors influencing success
Authors: Priest Naomi , May Esther
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine factors perceived to influence the successful use of laptop computers by clients of the Crippled Children’s Association of South Australia. The study was conducted in two phases: (i) a consultation phase involving key stakeholders; and (ii) a survey phase in which a questionnaire was distributed. Five key themes were identified by the consultation phase which grouped together similar factors perceived to influence the successful use of laptop computers. These themes were factors related to: (i) the laptop user; (ii) the laptop user’s parents/family; (iii) attributes of the laptop; (iv) the laptop user’s school; and (v) support and assistance which the laptop user may receive. A questionnaire was developed around these themes. Participants rated the importance of factors within these themes in relation to successful laptop computer use by children with disabilities. Results identified the most important factors across the whole sample were portability and teachers ability to adapt learning tasks to suit laptop use. However, each stakeholder group rated different factors as most important. Recommendations for a collaborative approach to laptop computer prescription, ongoing follow up and quality assurance, and the provision of training and development opportunities are suggested.
Occupational therapists and the concept of power: A review of the literature
Authors: Griffin Susan
Published: August 2010

The concept of power is discussed in the broader health literature and the occupational therapy literature from three perspectives. These are the trait approaches to professionalization, the medical dominance perspective and the view of health care work places as organizations. The results of the review suggest that the power of the profession of occupational therapy is linked to a number of factors. These include its status as an occupation, the fact that the majority of its members are women and the extent to which therapists have knowledge and skills related to working with other disciplines in a changing political climate. While the review enables the type of knowledge and skills which would assist therapists to develop and exercise their power within the health sector to be suggested, the extent to which therapists actually possess the knowledge and skills is unknown due to a lack of research in the area.
Effectiveness of electronic aids to daily living: Increased independence and decreased frustration
Authors: Croser Ruth , Garrett Rob , Seeger Barry , Davies Paul
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of a short‐term trial of electronic aids to daily living on people’s perceived levels of independence and frustration when using mains‐powered or infrared controlled appliances. Eight subjects trialed various electronic aid options over a 2‐week period to assist them to access appliances they considered to be a high priority. Subjects rated their independence, frustration level and average time taken to complete the task before, during and after the equipment trial. Results were analyzed as single case study designs run in parallel. All participants indicated the use of electronic aids to daily living increased independence, decreased frustration and decreased time taken to complete the task. As a result of these positive findings, further research in this area may be undertaken. Initially a demonstration centre for clients to trial new home automation technologies is to be set up at the Independent Living Centre of South Australia.
Inpatients’ perspectives of occupational therapy in acute mental health
Authors: Lim Kee Hean , Morris Julia , Craik Christine
Published: August 2010

Background:  Research into service users’ views of occupational therapy in acute mental health is extremely limited. This collaborative study by the South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust and the Brunel University (UK) obtained inpatients’ perspectives of occupational therapy.

Methods:  Service users and occupational therapists were involved in designing a self‐report questionnaire and, following training, in recruiting participants and collecting data.

Results:  Sixty‐four (28.6%) inpatients responded and most had met an occupational therapist who had explained the purpose of the intervention. The most frequent group interventions were arts and crafts, relaxation, community meetings, cookery, sports and gym, with the latter two rated as the most beneficial. There was much less choice about individual goals and interventions. A highly significant and positive correlation was found between occupational therapy meeting the needs of individuals and it improving the inpatients’ daily functioning and quality of their admission.

Conclusions:  Occupational therapists need to provide more individual interventions and more fully involve inpatients in deciding on individual goals. Group interventions, which are meaningful, relevant and with an occupational focus, are most beneficial. Further research examining the effectiveness of cookery and sport and gym and establishing the benefits of engaging in group and individual interventions in acute wards is warranted.
Use of diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound in the management of upper gastrointestinal malignancy
Authors: Tang Chung‐Ngai , Siu Wing‐Tai , Ka‐Wah Li Michael
Published: August 2010

Background: Despite various preoperative imaging methods, unnecessary laparotomy is still quite common in upper gastrointestinal surgery. There have been some studies demonstrating the use of diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound in the detection of small peritoneal seedling and vascular encasement of major vessels respectively, and these are the findings often inadequately assessed by preoperative imaging.

Objective: This is a study to evaluate the use of diagnostic laparoscopy and selective laparoscopic ultrasound in the management of upper gastrointestinal malignancy.

Method: A prospective study was carried out during the period from January 1996 to December 1997. Patients with upper gastrointestinal malignancy underwent diagnostic laparoscopy and selective laparoscopic ultrasound before resection. The role of laparoscopic staging was evaluated according to the number of patients who avoided unnecessary laparotomy.

Results: There were 159 patients of mean age 62.8 years diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal tumours during the study period. These patients had various upper gastrointestinal malignancies: gastric carcinoma (89), oesophageal carcinoma (27), hepatobiliary malignancy (26), peri‐ampullary carcinoma (15) and small bowel tumour (2). Routine diagnostic laparoscopy and selective laparoscopic ultrasound were carried out for these patients unless there were contraindications such as a history of previous upper gastrointestinal surgery or the patient required palliative procedure irrespective of resectability. There were 106 diagnostic laparoscopies and 42 laparoscopic ultrasounds performed. Unnecessary operations were avoided in 32 patients (30%) due to either diffuse carcinomatosis or locally advanced tumour with encasement of major vessels. The role of laparoscopic staging in avoiding unnecessary surgery was particularly pronounced in peri‐ampullary carcinoma (46%) and hepatobiliary malignancy (38%).

Conclusion: In summary, diagnostic laparoscopy and selective laparoscopic ultrasound are useful in avoiding unnecessary laparotomy particularly in hepatobiliary and peri‐ampullary malignancy.
ENDOSCOPIC MANAGEMENT OF SUBMANDIBULAR SIALOLITHIASIS
Authors: Chu W. , Chow T.L. , Lim B.H. , Kwok S.P.Y.
Published: August 2010

Background: Transoral removal and sialoadenectomy remain the main method of treatment for submandibular stone. However, missed ductal stone and risk of lingual nerve or hypoglossal nerve injury is not uncommon. We attempt to avoid the above complications by an innovative method.

Methods: There were 6 females and 5 males, age ranged from 19 to 89 years. The procedures were performed under general anaesthesia, CO2 laser papillotomy of the submandibular orifice was done and a 3.1 mm rigid scope was inserted under vision with normal saline irrigation. Stones were either broken down by laser or retrieved by Dormia‐basket or forcep.

Results: A total of 11 patients underwent the procedure. Therapeutic procedure was performed in 9 patients as the stones were identified and removed. Another two patients underwent diagnostic procedure only and no stone was found. One stone was identified and clearance achieved in 7 patients. More than 3 stones were removed in each of the other two patients. Pain and swelling of the submandibular gland subsided in 9 patients within 4 weeks after the procedure. There was persistent swelling more than 6 months after the procedure in one patient but no residual stone was revealed by CT scan of submandibular gland. One patient has residual stone demonstrated by sialogram which was performed because of persistent symptoms.

No lingual nerve or hypoglossal nerve injury was detected in any patient.

None of the patient need submandibular sialoadenectomy for stone removal.

Conclusion: CO2 laser papillotomy and sialodoscopy is a new and efficacious treatment for submandibular ductal stone. It reduces the incidence of missed stone, nerve injury and chance of sialoadenectomy.
A FEASIBILITY CASE CONTROLLED STUDY OF DAY CASE HAEMORRHOIDECTOMY
Authors: Lam D.T.Y. , Fong W.N. , Lam S.C.W. , Kwok S.P.Y.
Published: August 2010

Introduction: Haemorrhoidectomy is traditionally an in‐patient procedure. With many benefits, day surgery arrangement is an attractive alternative. We explored the feasibility of day surgery haemorrhoidectomy in a case controlled design.

Method: A single surgeon’s experience of day‐surgery haemorrhoidectomy between 1 July 1999 and 31 March 2000 was compared with in‐patient haemorrhoidectomy during the same period. The operations were performed in a government funded public hospital. Statistical tests were applied where appropriate.

Results: There were 30 day‐surgery and 15 in‐patient haemorrhoidectomies. The groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, severity of haemorrhoids, method and duration of haemorrhoidectomy, blood loss, residual haemorrhoids, follow up duration and unplanned re‐admission rate. Significantly more day‐patients received general than spinal anaesthesia. Twenty‐six of 30 (87%) patients were successfully discharged after day‐surgery. Two were admitted for transient fever (< 24 hours), 1 for micturition syncope and 1 for acute urinary retention. There were 4 unplanned re‐admissions after day‐surgery: 1 for pain and 3 for secondary bleeding. All stopped spontaneously. All the 3 unplanned re‐admissions after in‐patient surgery were for secondary bleeding. All stopped spontaneously. Patient stay was significantly shorter with day‐surgery (1 ± 1 day) than in‐patient arrangement (4 ± 1.6 days).

Conclusion: Day‐surgery haemorrhoidectomy is feasible. The significantly shorter hospital stay implies savings in public medical expenses.
2‐PORT LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY USING A MODIFIED LAPAROSCOPE
Authors: Poon C.M. , Lee D.W.H. , Chan K.W. , Chan K.C. , Cheung M.H.Y. , Lee K.W.
Published: August 2010

Introduction: We previously reported 2‐port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) had better patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, it was a technically demanding procedure even in expert hands. We recently have modified the laparoscope for this procedure.

Method: From September 2000, we prospectively recruited patients for elective LC using the modified laparoscope. This newly devised laparoscope could achieve a wider operative view. 2‐port LC was performed using a 10 mm modified operating laparoscope through a 11 mm supraumbilical port and a 5 mm subxyphoid port as shown. Traction suture or additional 5 mm port will be added in difficult cases.

Results: Over a 1‐month period, we performed 14 LC (M : F = 5 : 9). The median age was 54.5 (interquartile range (IQR) 45–67.75). The indications for LC were symptomatic gallstones (11), biliary pancreatitis (1), post‐cholecystitis (1) and gallbladder polyp (1). Median operative time was 53 min (IQR 38–61). 2 patients required additional traction suture or an additional 5 mm port. There was no conversion to open surgery. Median total hospital stay and postoperative hospital stay were 3 days (IQR 2–3.5) and 2 days (IQR 1–2.25) respectively. Median oral postoperative analgesia requirement was 1 dose (IQR 0–3).

Conclusion: The initial results of 2‐port LC using this modified operating laparoscope is safe and rewarding.
INTRAOPERATIVE ANGIOGRAPHY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF NEUROVASCULAR DISORDERS *
Authors: Lui Wai‐Man , Fan Yiu‐Wah , Cheng Pui‐Wai , Wong Wai‐Cheong
Published: August 2010

The advantages of high‐quality intraoperative angiography in cerebrovascular surgery are readily apparent. Intraoperative assessment of the vascular anatomy before the wound is closed allows for recognition and correction of technical defects and reduced the need for another operation. Apart from verifying a perfect surgical result after clipping of cerebral aneurysms or excision of arteriovenous malformation (AVM), this technique can assist in the intraoperative localization of small vascular malformations; document the patency of bypass graft; and demonstrate inadvertent occlusion of normal arteries.

Lussenhop and Spence7 were among the pioneers to present their experiences with intraoperative angiographic studies, primarily in the management of intracranial arteriovenous malformations. Others extended the indications of intraoperative angiography in treating cerebral aneurysms, cerebral revascularization procedures and carotid endarterectomy surgery.

In this retrospective review, we reported our early experience in using intraoperative angiography after surgical treatment of arteriovenous malformation, cerebral aneurysms and extracranial‐intracranial (ECIC) bypass procedures.

From April 1999 to November 2000, 30 intraoperative digital substraction angiography were performed at Queen Mary Hospital. Of these 30 procedures (Table 1), 19 were done for cerebral aneurysm surgery; 10 were done for cerebral arteriovenous malformations; one was done for ECIC bypass surgery. Tables 1 outlines the neurovascular procedures included in this series.

From April 1999 to November 2000, a total of 32 intraoperative angiography were attempted. Two out of 32 were failed due to technical problem. In one patient the machine break down during the procedure and in the other patient intimal tear of the femoral artery was noted during the angiographic studies. The procedure was abandoned to avoid further damage to the femoral artery. Thirty patients had intraoperative angiography successfully done with no complication. Four studies were performed in prone position; one study in park bench position; 25 studies in supine position.

Our experience found that intraoperative angiography was safe and that it frequently revealed unclipped aneurysm, unexpected major vessels occlusion. The cost, time, effort, and complications of intraoperative angiography appear to be less than the cost, in financial terms, of reoperations and devastating postoperative complications.
PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF LAPAROSCOPIC TOTAL MESORECTAL EXCISION AND COLONIC J POUCH RECONSTRUCTION IN RECTAL CANCER
Authors: Tsang W.W.C. , Chung C.C. , Ha J.P.Y. , Chan S.W. , Kwok S.Y. , Li M.K.W.
Published: August 2010

Aim: Our objective was to assess the technical feasibility, safety and results of performing total mesorectal excision (TME), which is now the widely accepted operation of choice in low and mid‐rectal cancers, in the laparoscopic fashion.

Methods: From March 1999 onwards, all patients with low or mid‐rectal cancers who were admitted into our unit were subjected to laparoscopic TME (LTME) with a covering loop ileostomy. Exclusion criteria include (1) clinical or radiological evidence of distant metastasis; (2) locally advanced disease as evident by clinical perirectal tumour fixation or adjacent organ involvement on CAT scan. The ileostomy would be closed at around 12 weeks after the surgery and after the integrity of the anastomosis has been confirmed by a barium enema study. All patients would be followed at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after the ileostomy closure to assess their bowel function and any evidence of recurrence.

Results: 21 consecutive patients were subjected to LTME. There were 12 males and 9 females with a mean age of 63 (40–80). The average distance of the tumour from anal verge was 7.5 cm (4– 10 cm). The mean operating time was 197 min (135–300 min). Average blood loss was 144 mL (20–600 mL). There was no conversion. Mean postoperative stay was 10.5 days (7–21 days). The anastomosis was on average 4.2 cm (2–5 cm) from the anal verge. The average distal margin was 4.5 cm (3–6 cm). There were 5 Dukes’A, 6 Dukes’B and 10 Dukes’C diseases. There was no mortality or anastomotic leakage. At an averge follow‐up period of 10 months, there was no local recurrence but 2 systemic recurrence. Six patients developed 7 complications: 4 patients developed transient postoperative urine retention, including one male with impotence. One patient developed port‐site hernia which required re‐operation. One other patient developed pouchitis after ileostomy closure, which necessitated subsequent pouch excision. At 3 month after ileostomy closure, the average bowel motion was 4.5/day with no incontinence or constipation. 11% of the patient had faecal urgency and 22% had sensation of incomplete evacuation. At 6 month after ileosotmy closure, the average bowel motion was 1.8/day and there was no recorded incontinence, constipation, urgency or sensation of incomplete evacuation.

Conclusion: LTME is a feasible and safe operation with an acceptable operating time and morbidity rate. Preliminary functional outcome is comparable to open surgery.
2 LITRES OF POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG) VERSUS SODIUM PHOSPHATE AS BOWEL CLEANSING REGIMEN FOR COLONOSCOPY: A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Poon C.M. , Chan K.C. , Chan K.W. , Sin K.S. , Lee S.W.H. , Chan A.
Published: August 2010

Introduction: Sodium phosphate (Fleet Phosphosoda) has been reported to have equal effectiveness and better patient tolerance compared with 4 litres of PEG as bowel cleansing regimen. Poor patient tolerance invariably associated with large amount of fluid consumed. This study compared 2 litres of PEG with Fleet phosphosoda in effectiveness and patient tolerance.

Patients and method: From July 2000, 164 consecutive patients admitted to day surgery ward for elective colonoscopy were prospectively randomized to receive either a 2 litre PEG solution or a 90 mL oral sodium phosphate preparation in two divided doses with a litre of water in between. Patients with history of congestive heart failure, impaired renal function (Creatinine > 1.5 mg/dl) and previous colectomy were excluded from the study. A questionnaire was used to assess patients’ acceptance. Blinded endoscopists would score the adequacy of bowel preparation from rectum to caecum during colonoscopy.

Results:

PEG group (n = 85)
NaP group (n = 77)
P value

Age (median +/− IQR)

49 (37–66)
51 (41–69.5)
0.34

M : F ratio

39 : 46
38 : 39
0.66

Ease of consumption (mean +/− SD)

4.4 +/− 3.1
4.7 +/− 3.1
0.52

(0 = easy – 10 = difficult unscaled VAS)

Willingness to repeat procedure

3.6 +/− 3.1
4.0 +/− 3.1
0.44

(0 = willing – 10 = unwilling unscaled VAS)

Patient satisfaction

3.5 +/− 3.1
3.7 +/− 3.1
0.68

(0 = satisfy – 10 = unsatisfy unscaled VAS)

Endoscopic score: 0–5
Rectum
1.3 +/− 0.9
1.5 +/− 1.1
0.46

 0 = clear
Sigmoid colon
1.6 +/− 0.8
1.6 +/− 1.0
0.73

 1 = bubble obscured view or small amount of clear fluid

Descending colon
1.5 +/− 0.8
1.5 +/− 0.8
0.85

 2 = large amount of clear fluid
Transverse colon
1.3 +/− 0.8
1.4 +/− 0.8
0.41

 3 = fluid faeces  4 = semisolid faeces

Ascending colon
1.3 +/− 1.0
1.3 +/− 0.8
0.41

 5 = solid faeces
Caecum
1.4 +/− 1.1
1.0 +/− 0.7
0.01

Patients' experience on colonoscopy

17 (20%)
14 (18.4%)
0.77

Duration (mins)

22.5 +/− 13.9
20.4 +/− 13.1
0.33

Complete colonoscopy

79 (92.9%)
71 (92.2%)
0.86

Therapeutic procedure

20 (23.5%)
16 (20.8%)
0.67

Endoscopist satisfaction

3.0 +/− 2.0
2.9 +/− 2.0
0.83

Conclusion:

2 litres of PEG is equally effective and acceptable by patients compared with Fleet phosphosoda
MANAGEMENT OF TRIGEMINAL SCHWANNOMA: FROM POSTERIOR FOSSA TO FACE
Authors: Chan P.H. , Fan Y.W.
Published: August 2010

Trigeminal schwannomas are rare lesions. It can arise from any part of the nerve from its origin in posterior fossa to its peripheral branches in the face. It presents particular challenge to neurosurgeons because it commonly involves more than one compartment in the skull base. In the past three years, we managed 8 patients with trigeminal schwannoma. The presentation varied according to their location and size. Common symptoms include facial numbness, diplopia, hemiparesis, and facial pain. Six patients underwent surgery with total excision, one patient underwent subtotal surgical excision plus radiosurgery and one patient underwent radiosurgery alone. Surgical strategies included petrosal, middle fossa and facial maxillary swing approach. The choice of the surgical approach, surgical results and complications will be discussed.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF THE EXTERNAL VENTRICULAR DIVERSION OF CSF PERFORMED IN A LOCAL NEUROSURGICAL UNIT IN HK
Authors: Kwok K. , Yam K.Y. , Fong D.
Published: August 2010

Introduction: External ventricular diversion (EVD) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a simple neurosurgical procedure for the temporary relief of acute hydrocephalus due to various intracranial pathologies.

In Tuen Mun Hospital, the ventricles are drained usually via a frontal burr hole on the ipsilateral side into a close ventricular drainage system. The distal end of the drain is passed through a skin‐tunnel of 3–5 cm long and anchored to the skin. The system is handled with great care and full aseptic technique is exercised during CSF sampling. Apart from prophylactic antibiotic prior to surgery, no antibiotic is given during the course of drainage.

Because of the large bore size of the catheter, the drainage is usually more tolerant to thick clot or high protein content in the CSF during acute situations. If the patient remains shunt dependent, the external drainage is later taken over by a permanent ventricular shunt at a suitable time.

Method: Clinical records of the 107 cases of EVDs done between the period of March 1998 and September 2000 were reviewed, targeting at:

1) the local epidemiology of the EVDs we have performed, and

2) the outcomes and complications.

Results: EVD was very often done following spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage/ intraventricular haemorrhage (36%) and as an adjunct to surgical clipping of aneurysms (33%). Only 38 patients (35%) eventually needed a permanent shunt.

It was evidenced that the longer the placement of EVD, the more the complications.

Among these complications, EVD infection was of the greatest significance. EVD infection, which was diagnosed by positive CSF culture, was found in 9 cases (8.4%) of the 107 primary drainage.

Chest infection (50%) was the commonest co‐existing systemic infection, followed by urinary tract infection (20%).

Conculsion:

External ventricular diversion is a safe procedure if precaution is taken to avoid infection. In two third of cases, permanent shunt is not required precluding the morbidity of foreign body implantation.
THE APPLICATION OF STEREOTACTIC NAVIGATION GUIDANCE IN NASOPHARYNGECTOMY
Authors: To E.W.H. , Cheng J.H.H. , Pang P.C.W.
Published: August 2010

Aims: This study is to present the application of stereotactic navigation guidance in anterior skull base surgery. The anterior skull base is remote from the surface structure of the facial skeleton and create a difficult access for tumour resection. The location of the internal carotid arteries which lie at the paranasopharyngeal space and other structures can be identified precisely with the use of stereotactic navigation guidance to allow safe and exact tumour dissection and clearance in and around the anterior skull base region.

Method: Ten adult Chinese patients with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma which affects the nasopharynx or sphenoid sinus were studied between July 1999 and September 2000. All the patients were operated under general anaesthesia with the aid of stereotactic navigation guidance for location of the internal carotid arteries intra‐operatively.

Results: All the internal carotid arteries could be identified and located. The resection margins were all clear. There was no mortality or major morbidity. All patients recovery uneventfully and discharged home within 10 days and has got no recurrence on follow up ranging from 2 to 14 months.

Conclusion: Stereotactic navigation guidance is an effective technique in locating the internal carotid artery to allow safe tumour dissection in the anterior skull base region.
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE IN HONG KONG CHINESE: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY IN A REGIONAL HOSPITAL
Authors: Leung C.M. , Chung C.C. , Ng W.K. , Ip K.S. , Leong I.S. , Li F.T.W. , Kung K.N. , Lao W.C. , Luk Y.W. , Pang S.W. , Li M.K.W.
Published: August 2010

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is reported to be rare in the Hong Kong Chinese.

Aim: To study the characteristics of IBD in our ethnic Chinese.

Method: We performed a retrospective analysis of all consecutive Chinese patients of IBD diagnosed and treated at our hospital from year 1993 to 2000.

Results: There were 35 and 15 patients with an established diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), respectively, as determined by a combination of clinical, radiological, endoscopic and histologic criteria. The male to female ratio was 1 : 1.3 and 1 : 1.1 for UC and CD, respectively. The mean age at diagnosis was 42.0 (range, 18–79) and 41.1 (range, 10–74) for UC and CD, respectively. No documented positive correlation between smoking and CD was evident. None of the patients had a family history of IBD. Common presenting symptoms were blood in stool (86%), diarrhoea (71%), abdominal pain (49%) and weight loss (14%) for UC. Main presenting symptoms for CD were abdominal pain (55%), diarrhoea (45%), blood in stool (45%) and weight loss (36%). Extraintestinal manifestations were rare. One patient had sclerosing cholangitis in association with UC. Another patient with CD developed sacroiliitis. Of the 15 patients with CD, 8 had ileocolic disease (55%), 5 colonic disease alone (36%) and 2 isolated small intestine disease alone (9%). A predilection to involve the colon (87%) is a distinct feature. Of the 35 patient with UC, 11 had proctitis (31%), 8 rectosigmoiditis (24%), 3 left sided colitis (9%) and 13 extensive colitis (39%). All patients with UC responded to medical therapy. None required surgical resection. Ten patients (67%) with CD responded to medical therapy alone. Surgical resection was undertaken in 5 CD patients (33%).

Conclusions: In comparison with Western figures, a relatively higher proportion of distal colitis alone namely, proctitis and rectosigmoiditis was seen in our Chinese UC patients whereas a predilection to involve the colon was a distinct feature in our Chinese CD patients. A higher age at diagnosis and the absence of family history were also characteristic features of IBD patients in our series.
Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis Associated with Oral Contraceptives: A Case Report
Authors: Milne Peter Y. , Thomas2 Robert J. S.
Published: August 2010

Small‐bowel infarction resulting from mesenteric venous thrombosis is a rare but life‐threatening complication to which young women taking oral contraceptives are liable. The patient characteristically presents with an “acute abdomen” after a variable prodromal period of vague abdominal pain. The correct diagnosis can be made from the macroscopic appearance at laparotomy, provided the surgeon is alert to the condition. An accurate diagnosis is important, as anticoagulation measures must be instituted early to counter the commonly associated thromboembolic phenomena.
Occupational Compression of the Common Peroneal Nerve at the Neck of the Fibula
Authors: Sandhu Hardas Singh , Sandhey B. S.
Published: August 2010

Seven cases of common peroneal nerve compression were seen among farm workers. The symptoms followed working in a sitting position with forward advancement, a position commonly adopted in India for harvesting a crop and hoeing. Motor and sensory impairment was seen in the distribution of the common peroneal nerve, more marked in the distribution of the deep peroneal branch. Motor conduction time, estimated in two cases, was delayed. At exploration, the cause of the compression was found to be a tendinous arch extending along the posterior border of the peroneus longus, and curving backwards and upwards along the lateral border of the soleus. Excision of this arch, with elimination of the origin of the upper part of the peroneus longus, led to disappearance of the neurological deficits.
Granulomatous Mastitis
Authors: Koelmeyer T. D. , MacCormick D. E. M.
Published: August 2010

Granulomatous mastitis is a benign mammary lesion, which clinically can closely simulate breast cancer. The condition has only recently been recognised, less than a dozen cases being recorded in the English literature. Two further cases are presented, the histological features are illustrated, and the literature is reviewed.
Primary Rhabdomyosarcoma of the Heart: A Case Report, with Autopsy
Authors: Khanna Sushila , Khanna M. N. , Rastogi B. L. , Chaturvedi V. C. , Gupta S. K.
Published: August 2010

A case of rhabdomyosarcoma of the heart in a 45‐yeur‐old man is reported. The diagnosis was suspected because of refractory congestive cardiac failure, a bulge on the left cardiac border, and oesophageal displacement, and was confirmed histologically at necropsy.
Screening for Bacterial Vaginosis and Cervicitis Aimed at Preventing Premature Delivery
Authors: Begum Sayeda , Sagawa Tadashi , Fujimoto Seiichiro
Published: September 2010

Objective: We performed screening and treatment of bacterial vaginosis and cervicitis during pregnancy for prevention of premature delivery. The incidence and the etiology of lower genital tract infections and premature delivery were examined to elucidate the effectiveness and problems of this trial.

Methods: Three hundred sixty‐five pregnant women who attended the obstetrical outpatient clinic in our hospital were included as subjects. The screening was done at prenatal‐care visits around the 10th, 20th, and 30th gestational weeks.

Results: Fifty‐eight women were diagnosed as bacterial vaginosis and 54 women were successfully treated. Thirty‐five women were diagnosed as cervicitis and all were cured. Nine women (2.5%) delivered before the 37th gestational week and 1 woman delivered before the 35th gestational week because of cervical incompetence.

Conclusions: The treatment of bacterial vaginosis and cervicitis may prevent microbes in the lower genital tract from penetrating the intrauterine cavity and thereby reduce the incidence of premature delivery. 1992;
Productivity of Foreign and Domestic Firms in the Malaysian Manufacturing Industry*
Authors: Oguchi Noriyoshi , Amdzah Nor Aini Mohd , Bakar Zainon , Abidin Rauzah Zainal , Shaﬁi Mazlina
Published: August 2010

The relative position of total factor productivity (TFP) of both foreign and domestic ﬁrms in the manufacturing industry in Malaysia is estimated for three‐ and ﬁve‐digit level subsectors. It was found that the differences between foreign and domestic ﬁrms varied widely from sector to sector. However, for the manufacturing industry as a whole, TFP was approximately the same for foreign and domestic ﬁrms for the period 1994–1996.
Special Quotes Invoke Autocorrelation in Japanese Stock Prices*
Authors: Tsutsui Yoshiro , Hirayama Kenjiro , Tanaka Takahiro , Uesugi Nobutaka
Published: August 2010

It is reported in the present paper that 1‐min returns on TOPIX have exhibited significant autocorrelation at 5‐min intervals since 1997/1998. Special quotes that are issued whenever there is a price jump in excess of a predetermined band seem to be the source of this autocorrelation, because these have been automatically updated at 5‐min intervals since August 1998 and have appeared during the first 30 min from opening. Individual stock returns also exhibit fifth‐order autocorrelation, but this disappears when the data with special quotes are excluded from the sample. Therefore, the autocorrelation is caused by the special quotes: a type of market microstructure noise.
A SEMI‐MARKOV MODEL FOR EAR INFECTION
Authors: McGlLCHRIST C.A. , HlLLS L. J.
Published: August 2010

A recent study of the prevalence of middle ear infection among Australian aborigines reports, for different age groups, the number currently infected, the number currently not infected and the number who are currently not infected but have scarring of the ear drum showing evidence of a previous infection. Incidence and recovery are modelled by a semi‐Markov model in which incidence of the infection is allowed to be nonstationary.
ADJUSTING RESIDUALS IN ESTIMATION OF DISPERSION EFFECTS
Authors: Ghosh Subir , Duh Yi‐Jing
Published: August 2010

This paper studies a method of adjusting the ordinary least squares residuals, when estimating and comparing dispersions, at various levels of factors in a replicated factorial experiment. Using a general dispersion model, theoretical results demonstrate the benefits of the method of adjusting residuals. An illustrative example is included.
SOME SECOND ORDER ASYMPTOTICS IN NONLINEAR REGRESSION
Authors: Wei Bo‐Cheng
Published: August 2010

Some asymptotics related to statistical curvature are studied from a geometric point of view. The method of stochastic expansion is used to study the second order information loss and some conditional inference for the least squares estimator in nonlinear regression in which the samples are independent but not necessarily identically distributed.
ON AN IDENTITY FOR FINDING MOMENTS OF SAMPLE MOMENTS OF BIVARIATE NORMAL RANDOM VARIABLES
Authors: Prabhakaran V.T. , Mahajan V.K. , Uma
Published: August 2010

Probabilistic arguments are used to establish an identity useful for deriving the moments of the sample variances and covariance of a bivariate normal population. Some variances and covariances are derived to illustrate the use of the identity.
USE OF A LOG‐LINEAR MODEL TO COMPUTE THE EMPIRICAL SURVIVAL CURVE FROM INTERVAL‐CENSORED DATA, WITH APPLICATION TO DATA ON TESTS FOR HIV POSITIVITY
Authors: Becker Niels G. , Melbye Mads
Published: August 2010

We describe how a log‐linear model can be used to compute the nonparametric maximum likelihood estimate of the survival curve from interval‐censored data. This permits such computation to be performed with the aid of readily available statistical software such as GLIM or SAS. The method is illustrated with reference to data from a cohort of Danish homosexual men, each of whom was tested for HIV positivity on one or more of six possible follow‐up times.
BERNOULLI SAMPLING
Authors: Deshmukh Shailaja R.
Published: August 2010

The concepts of the Bernoulli count process of a point process and Bernoulli sampling of a discrete parameter stochastic process are introduced. The Bernoulli count process determines the stochastic structure of the point process, and a process obtained by thinning a discrete parameter stochastic process by Bernoulli sampling satisfies the same property. Stationarity and the Markov property remain invariant under Bernoulli sampling.
ROBUST ESTIMATION FOR EPIDEMIC MODELS
Authors: Marschner Ian C.
Published: August 2010

A robust approach to the analysis of epidemic data is suggested. This method is based on a natural extension of M‐estimation for i.i.d. observations where the distribution may be asymmetric. It is discussed initially in the context of a general discrete time stochastic process before being applied to previously studied epidemic models. In particular we consider a class of chain binomial models and models based on time dependent branching processes. Robustness and efficiency properties are studied through simulation and some previously analysed data sets are considered.