bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A preliminary investigation of Beta-hCG expression in patients with osteosarcoma
Authors: Masrouha K. Z. , Khattab R. , Tawil A. , Abdallah A. , Saghieh S. , Haidar R. , Abboud M. , Khoury N. J.
Published: February 2012

There are eight reported cases in the literature of osteosarcomas secreting β-hCG. Our primary aim was to investigate the rate of β-hCG expression in osteosarcoma and attempt to understand the characteristics of osteosarcomas that secrete β-hCG. We reviewed 37 histopathology slides (14 biopsies and 23 surgical specimens) from 32 patients with osteosarcoma. The slides were retrospectively stained for β-hCG expression. Patient and tumour characteristics, including age, gender, tumour location, subtype, proportion of necrosis, presence of metastases and recurrence were recorded. A total of five of the 32 tumours were found to be positive for β-hCG expression (one strongly and four weakly). This incidence of this expression was found in tumours with poor histological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

The use of β-hCG expression as a diagnostic, prognostic or follow-up marker is questionable and needs further investigation with a larger sample size.
The Pararectus approach for anterior intrapelvic management of acetabular fractures
Authors: Keel M. J. B. , Ecker T. M. , Cullmann J. L. , Bergmann M. , Bonel H. M. , Büchler L. , Siebenrock K. A. , Bastian J. D.
Published: February 2012

A new anterior intrapelvic approach for the surgical management of displaced acetabular fractures involving predominantly the anterior column and the quadrilateral plate is described. In order to establish five ‘windows’ for instrumentation, the extraperitoneal space is entered along the lateral border of the rectus abdominis muscle. This is the so-called ‘Pararectus’ approach. The feasibility of safe dissection and optimal instrumentation of the pelvis was assessed in five cadavers (ten hemipelves) before implementation in a series of 20 patients with a mean age of 59 years (17 to 90), of whom 17 were male. The clinical evaluation was undertaken between December 2009 and December 2010. The quality of reduction was assessed with post-operative CT scans and the occurrence of intra-operative complications was noted. In cadavers, sufficient extraperitoneal access and safe instrumentation of the pelvis were accomplished. In the patients, there was a statistically significant improvement in the reduction of the fracture (pre- versus post-operative: mean step-off 3.3 mm (sd 2.6) vs 0.1 mm (sd 0.3), p < 0.001; and mean gap 11.5 mm (sd 6.5) vs 0.8 mm (sd 1.3), p < 0.001). Lesions to the peritoneum were noted in two patients and minor vascular damage was noted in a further two patients. Multi-directional screw placement and various plate configurations were feasible in cadavers without significant retraction of soft tissues.

In the treatment of acetabular fractures predominantly involving the anterior column and the quadrilateral plate, the Pararectus approach allowed anatomical restoration with minimal morbidity related to the surgical access.
National in-hospital morbidity and mortality trends after lumbar fusion surgery between 1998 and 2008
Authors: Pumberger M. , Chiu Y-L. , Ma Y. , Girardi F. P. , Mazumdar M. , Memtsoudis S. G.
Published: February 2012

Increasing numbers of posterior lumbar fusions are being performed. The purpose of this study was to identify trends in demographics, mortality and major complications in patients undergoing primary posterior lumbar fusion. We accessed data collected for the Nationwide Inpatient Sample for each year between 1998 and 2008 and analysed trends in the number of lumbar fusions, mean patient age, comorbidity burden, length of hospital stay, discharge status, major peri-operative complications and mortality. An estimated 1 288 496 primary posterior lumbar fusion operations were performed between 1998 and 2008 in the United States. The total number of procedures, mean patient age and comorbidity burden increased over time. Hospital length of stay decreased, although the in-hospital mortality (adjusted and unadjusted for changes in length of hospital stay) remained stable. However, a significant increase was observed in peri-operative septic, pulmonary and cardiac complications. Although in-hospital mortality rates did not change over time in the setting of increases in mean patient age and comorbidity burden, some major peri-operative complications increased. These trends highlight the need for appropriate peri-operative services to optimise outcomes in an increasingly morbid and older population of patients undergoing lumbar fusion.
Diastematomyelia
Authors: Cheng B. , Li F. T. , Lin L.
Published: February 2012

Diastematomyelia is a rare congenital abnormality of the spinal cord. This paper summarises more than 30 years’ experience of treating this condition. Data were collected retrospectively on 138 patients with diastematomyelia (34 males, 104 females) who were treated at our hospital from May 1978 to April 2010. A total of 106 patients had double dural tubes (type 1 diastematomyelia), and 32 patients had single dural tubes (type 2 diastematomyelia). Radiographs, CT myelography, and MRI showed characteristic kyphoscoliosis, widening of the interpedicle distance, and bony, cartilaginous, and fibrous septum. The incidences of symptoms including characteristic changes of the dorsal skin, neurological disorders, and congenital spinal or foot deformity were significantly higher in type 1 than in type 2. Surgery is more effective for patients with type 1 diastematomyelia; patients without surgery showed no improvement.
Birmingham hip resurfacing at a mean of ten years
Authors: Coulter G. , Young D. A. , Dalziel R. E. , Shimmin A. J.
Published: February 2012

We report the findings of an independent review of 230 consecutive Birmingham hip resurfacings (BHRs) in 213 patients (230 hips) at a mean follow-up of 10.4 years (9.6 to 11.7). A total of 11 hips underwent revision; six patients (six hips) died from unrelated causes; and 13 patients (16 hips) were lost to follow-up. The survival rate for the whole cohort was 94.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) 90.1 to 96.9). The survival rate in women was 89.1% (95% CI 79.2 to 94.4) and in men was 97.5% (95% CI 92.4 to 99.2). Women were 1.4 times more likely to suffer failure than men. For each millimetre increase in component size there was a 19% lower chance of a failure. The mean Oxford hip score was 45.0 (median 47.0, 28 to 48); mean University of California, Los Angeles activity score was 7.4 (median 8.0, 3 to 9); mean patient satisfaction score was 1.4 (median 1.0, 0 to 9). A total of eight hips had lysis in the femoral neck and two hips had acetabular lysis. One hip had progressive radiological changes around the peg of the femoral component. There was no evidence of progressive neck narrowing between five and ten years.

Our results confirm that BHR provides good functional outcome and durability for men, at a mean follow-up of ten years. We are now reluctant to undertake hip resurfacing in women with this implant.
Monitoring Uranium, Hydrogen, and Lithium and Their Isotopes Using a Compact Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Probe and High-Resolution Spectrometer
Authors: Cremers David A. , Beddingfield Alan , Smithwick Robert , Chinni Rosemarie C. , Jones C. Randy , Beardsley Burt , Karch Larry
Published: February 2012

The development of field-deployable instruments to monitor radiological, nuclear, and explosive (RNE) threats is of current interest for a number of assessment needs such as the on-site screening of suspect facilities and nuclear forensics. The presence of uranium and plutonium and radiological materials can be determined through monitoring the elemental emission spectrum using relatively low-resolution spectrometers. In addition, uranium compounds, explosives, and chemicals used in nuclear fuel processing (e.g., tributyl-phosphate) can be identified by applying chemometric analysis to the laser-induced breakdown (LIBS) spectrum recorded by these spectrometers. For nuclear forensic applications, however, isotopes of U and Pu and other elements (e.g., H and Li) must also be determined, requiring higher resolution spectrometers given the small magnitude of the isotope shifts for some of these elements (e.g., 25 pm for U and 13 pm for Pu). High-resolution spectrometers will be preferred for several reasons but these must fit into realistic field-based analysis scenarios. To address the need for field instrumentation, we evaluated a previously developed field-deployable hand-held LIBS interrogation probe combined with two relatively new high-resolution spectrometers (λ/δλ ∼ 75 000 and ~44 000) that have the potential to meet field-based analysis needs. These spectrometers are significantly smaller and lighter in weight than those previously used for isotopic analysis and one unit can provide simultaneous wide spectral coverage and high resolution in a relatively small package. The LIBS interrogation probe was developed initially for use with low resolution compact spectrometers in a person-portable backpack LIBS instrument. Here we present the results of an evaluation of the LIBS probe combined with a high-resolution spectrometer and demonstrate rapid detection of isotopes of uranium and hydrogen and highly enriched samples of 6Li and 7Li.
Silver Nanoparticles Deposited on Porous Silicon as a Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Active Substrate
Authors: Zeiri Leila , Rechav Katya , Porat Ze'ev , Zeiri Yehuda
Published: February 2012

Silver nanoparticles were deposited spontaneously from their aqueous solution on a porous silicon (PS) layer. The PS acts both as a reducing agent and as the substrate on which the nanoparticles nucleate. At higher silver ion concentrations, layers of nanoparticle aggregates were formed on the PS surface. The morphology of the metallic layers and their SERS activity were influenced by the concentrations of the silver ion solutions used for deposition. Raman measurements of rhodamine 6G (R6G) and crystal violet (CV) adsorbed on these surfaces showed remarkable enhancement of up to about 10 orders of magnitude.
A 5-kg Time-Resolved Luminescence Photometer with Multiple Excitation Sources
Authors: Chen Guoying
Published: February 2012

A luminescence photometer was developed based on lanthanide-sensitized luminescence to detect environmental pollutants and residues in foods including, in particular, two classes of antibiotics: tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Multiple excitation sources, a xenon flashlamp and ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs), were used to their advantages. A photomultiplier tube module, gated to reject time-domain interferences, was used as a photodetector. Using danofloxacin as a model analyte, luminescence signal was linear in more than three decades (0.5–2000 ng/mL) with R 2 > 0.998 in each decade. This photometer achieved a limit of detection of 2.0 ng/mL with 1.3% average relative standard deviation. It is field deployable at 4.6 kg and 15 W power consumption.
Digital Video: Engaging Students in Critical Media Literacy and Community Activism
Authors: DANIELS JESSIE
Published: February 2012

This article presents a strategy for teaching health communication that fosters critical media literacy through the strategic combination of digital video, documentary film, video worksheets, and peer-reviewed journal articles. Given the media-saturated environment in which notions
of health are shaped, critical media literacy skills are crucial to students in health-related fields. Cases of key concepts illustrated through documentary films and the peer-reviewed literature are presented. The article then explores how one class took the lead in designing a community
event that critically engaged both a YouTube video and a documentary film about police brutality as a public health issue.
Redefining Music Technology in the United States
Authors: Rees Fred J.
Published: February 2012

While its presence in the commercial music world has long been obvious, music professors and school teachers in the United States have largely ignored or retreated from engaging in or creating technological tools for their work. Many had no experience with music technology during their
education while others who employ technological resources have had to learn about them on their own. At the same time, there is growing evidence of interdisciplinary research, particularly in music cognition and neuroscience along with creative initiatives in telematics and new instrument
development that hold implications for the future of the field. As an academic discipline, music technology is young, with a growing number of tertiary degree programmes that cover a vast territory of specializations related to the field, thus offering no clear identity to it. To address these
issues, this article proposes a comprehensive definition of music technology that takes them into account.
Guardians of Their Own Health
Authors: O'Rourke Kathryn E.
Published: February 2012

José Villagrán García's Tuberculosis Sanatorium at Huipulco (1929–36), outside of Mexico City, was one of Mexico's first important modern buildings. Commissioned by the federal government and designed to cure and transform the Mexican working class, the project reflected its architect's pioneering integration of architectural rationalism, Julien Guadet's theories, and the reform ambitions of the Mexican government. At Huipulco, Villagrán also referenced established sanatorium design as a means of visually associating Mexican architecture and medicine with admired European practices in both fields. In Guardians of Their Own Health: Tuberculosis, Rationalism, and Reform in Modern Mexico, Kathryn E. O'Rourke argues that understood in the context of Mexican social policy and compared to buildings by Guadet's famous student Auguste Perret, the Huipulco Sanatorium reveals the reach of French rationalism and the complex genesis of modern architecture in Mexico. Its story helps to historicize and particularize the International Style within histories of modern architecture and open further the question of how modern architecture was understood by architects working beyond European centers.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly(p-phenylene ethynylene)s with nitroxyl radical endgroups
Authors: Schroeter Michael , Behl M. , Weder C. , Lendlein A.
Published: February 2012

The generation of terminal N-Hydroxyl substituents in p-phenylene ethynylene based compounds is presented. P-phenylene ethynylene derivatives were synthesized in a Sonogashira coupling reaction. N-Hydroxyl groups could be introduced by lithiation of iodine moieties and subsequent reaction with the 2-methyl-2-nitrosopropane generated by the cleavage of its dimer. The synthesis by lithiation was found to be more effective compared to the reaction with the Grignard reagent and the chloro-derivative. The resulting compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, UV and PL spectroscopy and were shown to be sensitive towards oxidation. This new approach of introducing additional charge carriers by nitroxyl endgroups might enable conjugated polymers with enhanced conductivity.
Cholesterol Biosensor Based on Nanodiamond-Polypyrrole Conducting Nanocomposite Membrane
Authors: Villalba Pedro , Basnayaka Punya , Ladanov Mikhail , Liriano Beverly , Ram Manoj , Mohapatra Subhra , Kumar Ashok
Published: February 2012

In this work we present the synthesis, characterization and application of the nanodiamond- polypyrrole nanocomposite films as electrochemical active electrode for sensing cholesterol. Cholesterol oxidase and esterase have been covalently attached to the surface of the films. Results showed that the inclusion of nanodiamond to the polymeric matrix increment the surface area and provide carboxylic groups capable to perform reaction with the amide groups present in the enzymes. Further, the sensitivity of the electrode to the cholesterol content have been examined.
Optimizing Morphology and Structure with Multi-Signal FIB/SEM Tomography
Authors: Giannuzzi Lucille A.
Published: February 2012

Focused ion beam (FIB) milling coupled with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the same platform enables 3D microstructural analysis of structures using FIB for serial sectioning and SEM for imaging. Since FIB milling is a destructive technique, the acquisition of multiple signals from each slice is desirable. The feasibility of collecting both an inlens backscattered electron (BSE) signal and an inlens secondary electron (SE) simultaneously from a single scan of the electron beam from each FIB slice is demonstrated. The simultaneous acquisition of two different SE signals from two different detectors (inlens vs. Everhart-Thornley (ET) detector) is also possible. Obtaining multiple signals from each FIB slice with one scan increases the acquisition throughput. In addition, optimization of microstructural and morphological information from the target is achieved using multi-signals. Examples of multi-signal FIB/SEM tomography from a dental implant will be provided where both material contrast from the bone/ceramic coating/Ti substrate phases and porosity in the ceramic coating will be characterized.
Human behavior and sustainability
Authors: Fischer Joern , Dyball Robert , Fazey Ioan , Gross Catherine , Dovers Stephen , Ehrlich Paul R , Brulle Robert J , Christensen Carleton , Borden Richard J
Published: February 2012

Sustainability demands changes in human behavior. To this end, priority areas include reforming formal institutions, strengthening the institutions of civil society, improving citizen engagement, curbing consumption and population growth, addressing social justice issues, and reflecting on value and belief systems. We review existing knowledge across these areas and conclude that the global sustainability deficit is not primarily the result of a lack of academic knowledge. Rather, unsustainable behaviors result from a vicious cycle, where traditional market and state institutions reinforce disincentives for more sustainable behaviors while, at the same time, the institutions of civil society lack momentum to effectively promote fundamental reforms of those institutions. Achieving more sustainable behaviors requires this cycle to be broken. We call on readers to contribute to social change through involvement in initiatives like the Ecological Society of America's Earth Stewardship Initiative or the nascent Millennium Alliance for Humanity & the Biosphere.
Reducing Maternal Mortality in Uganda: Applying the “Three Delays” Framework
Authors: Ellis Cathryn , Schummers Laura , Rostoker Jean-Francois
Published: February 2012

PURPOSE: This article examines maternal mortality in Uganda through the “Three Delays” framework. This framework asserts that maternal mortality in developing countries results from three delays to accessing appropriate health care: (a) the delay in making a timely decision to seek medical assistance, (b) the delay in reaching a health facility, and (c) the delay in provision of adequate care at a health facility.

STUDY DESIGN: This study provides a review and synthesis of literature published about maternal mortality, the “Three Delays” concept, Uganda, and sub-Saharan Africa between 1995 and 2010.

MAJOR FINDINGS: The “Three Delays” framework has relevance in the Ugandan context. This framework allows for an integrated and critical analysis of the interactions between cultural factors that contribute to the first delay and inadequate emergency obstetrical care related to the third delay.

MAJOR CONCLUSION: In order to reduce maternal mortality in Uganda, governments and institutions must become responsive to the cultural and health needs of women and their families. Initiatives that increase educational and financial status of women, antenatal care, and rates of institutional care may reduce maternal mortality in the long term. Improvements to emergency obstetrical services are likely to have the most significant impact in the short term.
Pulmonary Epithelial Apoptosis in Fetal down Syndrome: Not Higher than Normal
Authors: Bruijn Martijn , von der Thüsen Jan H. , van der Loos Chris M. , de Krijger Ronald R. , van Loenhout Rhiannon B. , Bos Albert P. , van Woensel Job B.M.
Published: February 2012

Children with Down syndrome (DS) are at high risk for acute lung injury (ALI). Pulmonary epithelial apoptosis is an important factor in the pathophysiology of ALI. Whether the risk of ALI in DS is associated with a high level of pulmonary epithelial apoptosis is not known. We hypothesized that the percentage of apoptotic epithelial cells is higher in DS than in control lungs. Lung tissue sections from autopsies of 21 fetuses with DS and 12 controls were stained with antibodies against the epithelial marker pan-cytokeratin (CK) and apoptosis marker activated caspase-3 (aC3). Spectral imaging software was used to quantify the mean percentage of pixels that showed colocalization of CK and aC3. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) gestational age in weeks was 18.7 (1.4) in DS and 18.9 (2.0) in controls ( P = 0.67). The mean (SD) percentage of CK-positive pixels was 27.2% (4.7%) in DS compared to 27.1% (6.2%) in controls ( P = 0.97). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) percentage of CK-positive pixels that showed colocalization of aC3 was 0.16% (0.18%) in DS compared to 0.27% (0.24%) in controls ( P = 0.45). The mean (SD) number of CK-positive pixels increased from 22.5% (5.2%) to 30.4% (4.6%) with the appearance of saccular morphology in controls but not in DS ( P = 0.01). The percentage of apoptotic epithelial cells in DS fetal lungs does not differ from that in controls. However, we did find a difference in the development of epithelial structures between DS and controls that may be associated with anomalies in alveolar development found at birth in DS.
The Contribution of Extramedullary Hematopoiesis to Hepatomegaly in Anemic Hydrops Fetalis: A Study in Alpha-Thalassemia Hydrops Fetalis
Authors: Taweevisit Mana , Thorner Paul S.
Published: February 2012

Massive hepatomegaly is a common finding in hydrops fetalis (HF) arising from hemoglobinopathies. It has been suggested that extramedullary hematopoiesis, which is markedly increased in response to anemia, plays a principal role in hepatomegaly via sinusoidal obstruction and distortion of the intrahepatic architecture. To test this concept, the authors compared 20 cases of α-thalassemia (hemoglobin Bart, 15 cases; hemoglobin H, 5 cases) with 19 cases of HF arising from other causes and 39 control nonhydrops cases. The mean liver weight in α-thalassemia cases was significantly heavier than in control cases and in hydrops fetalis cases due to other causes ( P < 0.01). This was not explainable on the basis of extramedullary hematopoiesis (erythropoiesis or myelopoiesis) or hemosiderin deposition, since cases of HF from other causes, especially related to anemia, showed similar findings to α-thalassemia cases. While these processes no doubt contribute to hepatic weight, the major factor would still be high-output cardiac failure causing hepatic congestion.
Effect of nitrous oxide on the minimum alveolar concentration for sevoflurane and the minimum alveolar concentration derivatives that prevent motor movement and autonomic responses in dogs
Authors: Seddighi Reza , Egger Christine M. , Rohrbach Barton W. , Hobbs Meredith , Doherty Thomas J.
Published: February 2012

Objective—To investigate the effects of the concurrent administration of 70% N2O on the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) for sevoflurane in dogs, the MAC derivative that blocks motor movement (MACNM), and the MAC derivative that blocks autonomic responses (MACBAR).

Animals—7 adult sexually intact male mixed-breed dogs.

Procedures—For each dog, anesthesia was induced with sevoflurane delivered via a face mask. Initially, the baseline MAC, MACNM, and MACBAR for sevoflurane were determined by use of a noxious stimulus (50 V, 50 Hz, and 10 milliseconds) applied subcutaneously over a midulnar region. Nitrous oxide (70%) was added to the breathing circuit, and MAC, MACNM, and MACBAR were determined again. Percentage changes from the respective baseline concentrations for MAC, MACNM’ and MACBAR were calculated after the administration of N2O.

Results—Baseline median values for the MAC, MACNM, and MACBAR for sevoflurane were 1.75%, 2.00%, and 2.50%, respectively. Addition of 70% N2O significantly decreased MAC, MACNM, and MACBAR by 24.4%, 25.0%, and 35.2%, respectively, and these values did not differ significantly from each other.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Supplementation with 70% N2O caused a clinically important and significant decrease in the MAC, MACNM’ and MACBAR for sevoflurane in dogs.
Effect of Simvastatin on Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1–Induced Myofibroblast Differentiation and Collagen Production in Nasal Polyp-Derived Fibroblasts
Authors: Park Il-Ho , Park Se-Jin , Cho Jung-Sun , Moon You-Mi , Moon Jun-Hyeok , Kim Tae Hoon , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Heung-Man
Published: February 2012

Background

Statins are the most commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Statins exert not only lipid-lowering but also other cellular effects, including antifibrotic properties. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of simvastatin on transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta-1–induced myofibroblast differentiation and collagen production in nasal polyp-derived fibroblasts (NPDFs) and to verify the mechanism of the effect of simvastatin in TGF-beta-1–induced myofibroblast differentiation in NPDFs.

Methods

NPDFs were pretreated with simvastatin with or without mevalonate or Y-27643 for 2 hours before induction by TGF-beta-1. The expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and collagen type IV mRNA was determined by a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of alpha-SMA protein was determined by immunofluorescent cytochemical staining. Total soluble collagen production was analyzed by the SirCol collagen dye-binding assay (Biocolor, Belfast, U.K.). Phosphorylation of Smad 2/3 was evaluated by Western blot analysis.

Results

In TGF-beta-1–induced NPDFs, simvastatin significantly inhibited the expressions of α-SMA and collagen type IV mRNA and reduced alpha-SMA and collagen protein levels. Pretreatment with mevalonate reversed the effect of simvastatin. The expression of alpha-SMA mRNA and protein was significantly decreased by pretreatment with Y-27632. The TGF-beta-1–induced expression of pSmad 2/3 protein was notably decreased by pretreatment with simvastatin.

Conclusion

We showed that simvastatin inhibits TGF-beta-1–induced myofibroblast differentiation (expression of alpha-SMA) and collagen production in NPDFs and Rho/Rock and TGF-β/Smad signaling is involved as an underlying mechanism. The results of our study suggest that simvastatin is a possible candidate for the suppression of nasal polyp formation.
Cytologic Alterations in Nasal Mucosa after Sphenopalatine Artery Ligation in Patients with Vasomotor Rhinitis
Authors: Cassano Michele , Russo Luigi , Del Giudice Alessandro Maselli , Gelardi Matteo
Published: February 2012

Background

Vasomotor rhinitis (VR) seems to be related to an imbalance between cholinergic and adrenergic activity in the autonomic nervous system. The nerve fibers of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems reach the nose through the posterior nasal nerve, which, after crossing the sphenopalatine foramen, distributes to the mucosa following the branches of the sphenopalatine vessels. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of sphenopalatine artery ligation on nasal function and nasal cytology in patients with VR.

Methods

Thirty patients with VR and bilateral inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) were randomly assigned to receive endoscopic inferior turbinoplasty either with or without sphenopalatine artery ligation. Pre- (baseline) and postsurgical (1-year follow-up) assessment included fiber endoscopy, active anterior rhinomanometry, measurement of mucociliary transport time (MTt), and nasal cytology examination.

Results

At 1-year follow-up there was a statistically significant improvement in nasal resistances in both groups but not on intergroup comparison; MTt significantly decreased in both groups (p < 0.01) and was significantly better (p < 0.05) in the group that had undergone sphenopalatine artery ligation. Among the patients in this group, significantly fewer were found to have altered ciliated cells (p < 0.005) or a hyperchromatic supranuclear stria (p < 0.005) on nasal cytology; the differences were statistically significant also on in intergroup comparison (p < 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

In patients with vasomotor rhinopathy and ITH, improvement in symptoms, nasal resistance, ciliated cell trophism, and MTt was observed after sphenopalatine artery ligation.
Subcutaneous and Sublingual Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis: What is the Evidence?
Authors: Wise Sarah K. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: February 2012

Background

Increasing interest in sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) among practitioners and patients has resulted in numerous publications and clinical trials in recent years. With the clinical growth of SLIT, discussions of its efficacy, safety, and immunologic effects have intensified, as have comparisons to subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT). In the United States, SCIT has been the traditional form of immunotherapy for inhalant allergy and is the only immunotherapy method approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at this time. The similarities and differences between SLIT and SCIT are often discussed, yet clinical studies directly comparing these immunotherapy methods are scarce.

Methods

A literature review of specific issues and controversies between SLIT and SCIT for allergic rhinitis was conducted.

Results

Safety, efficacy, and immunologic effects of these two immunotherapy techniques are reviewed.

Conclusion

Unanswered questions relating to SLIT are examined.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis due to House-Dust Mites in Spain
Authors: Valero Antonio , Justicia José L. , Vidal Carmen , Rodríguez Virginia , Muñoz Rosa , García Mario A.
Published: February 2012

Background

The prevalence of allergic rhinitis due to house-dust mites (HDMs) is high and increasing. Treatment guidelines and consensus statements are available, but few data exist on how these are followed in clinical practice in Spain. This study was designed to collect data on diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis due to HDMs and adherence to guidelines in Spanish specialized clinical practice.

Methods

In this observational study, patients referred to specialists for a first consultation were collected. Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis due to HDMs was confirmed by skin-prick tests and measurement of specific immunoglobulin E levels. Variables included patient demographics, diagnosis, and treatment. Moreover, investigators answered a questionnaire on their attitudes to allergic rhinitis treatment.

Results

Two hundred forty-seven clinicians collected evaluable data from 519 patients (mean age, 24.8 years; SD, 11.9 years; 54% women) with confirmed allergic rhinitis (86.2% with moderate or severe disease and 70.5% with persistent disease; 40% with concomitant asthma) caused by Dermatophagoides. In 85.6% of patients, symptoms had not improved since diagnosis and good disease control was only being achieved in 43.4%. At the study visit, pharmacologic treatment was prescribed in 98.3% and allergen immunotherapy was prescribed in 52.2% of patients.

Conclusion

When patients with HDM-induced allergic rhinitis are referred to an allergy specialist in Spain, they have moderate-to-severe persistent disease and are generally not achieving good control with symptomatic treatment. Allergen immunotherapy is prescribed in approximately one-half of patients. In this representative sample of Spanish allergy specialists, the level of adherence to clinical guidelines in these patients is encouraging.
Orally Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Patients with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis during Natural Pollen Season
Authors: Ciebiada Maciej , Cichocki Piotr , Kasztalska Karolina , Majewski Sebastian , Gorska-Ciebiada Malgorzata , Gorski Pawel
Published: February 2012

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is the endogenous molecule involved in regulatory, protective, and defensive mechanisms. Although exhaled NO (ENO) has been used to monitor patients with asthma, possible usage of ENO in allergic rhinitis (AR) still needs to be evaluated. The authors wanted to determine the levels of NO exhaled orally both out of the pollen season and during the natural pollen exposure in patients with AR without asthma.

Methods

Forty-six patients without asthma, with seasonal AR (SAR) and 15 healthy, nonreactive, nonatopic subjects as a control group were investigated. ENO, congestion score, and peak nasal inspiratory flows (PNIFs) were measured in all subjects 6 weeks before the pollen season, at the height of the pollen season, and 6 weeks after the end of the pollen season.

Results

Patients with SAR had significantly higher basal ENO values compared with healthy control. The number of parts of NO increased in both groups during the pollen season but only in AR patients was the increase significant compared with the levels before the pollen season. Those with SAR and high levels of NO in exhaled air at the height of the pollen season had significantly lower PNIF rates and higher obstruction scores than out of the pollen season and in the healthy group.

Conclusion

Natural exposure may lead to an elevation of ENO in the patients with SAR without asthma. We estimate that the increased ENO may result from subclinical allergic inflammation present within the lower airways of nonasthmatic patients with SAR.
Aspirin-exacerbated Respiratory Disease in China: A Cohort Investigation and Literature Review
Authors: Fan Yunping , Feng Shaoyan , Xia Wentong , Qu Lijuan , Li Xiaomin , Chen Shulin , Ding Minhong , Lai Yinyan , Shi Jianbo , Xu Geng , Li Huabin
Published: February 2012

Background

Although the prevalence of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) in western populations is high, AERD is rather rare in China, and few related studies have been published to date.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort investigation on the incidence of AERD in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in southern China. A literature search of the China Academic Journal Network Publishing Database was conducted to obtain an overview of the incidence of AERD in the Chinese population, and previous studies on the incidence of AERD were reviewed.

Results

We found 2 patients with aspirin hypersensitivity among 351 consecutive CRS (309 with nasal polyps [NPs]) patients, suggesting a rate of 0.57% in the CRS population. Forty-five articles about AERD were obtained by Chinese-language literature searches. In total, 346 cases of AERD were reported during the past 30 years.

Conclusion

Given the large population of NPs in China, the prevalence of AERD is very low, and this may be related to the reduced levels of nasal tissue eosinophilia and subsequent low asthma comorbidity.
Black Carbon Aerosol over a High Altitude (~ 4.52 km) Station in Western Indian Himalayas
Authors: Chaubey Jai Prakash , Babu S Suresh , Gogoi Mukunda M , Kompalli Sobhan Kumar , Sreekanth V , Moorthy K Krishna , Prabhu Tushar P
Published: February 2012

Continuous measurements of mass concentration of Black Carbon (BC) aerosols, measured from a high altitude (~ 4.5 km above msl) location, Hanle (32.78°N, 78.95°E) in the western Himalayas, during August 2009 to July 2010 have been examined. The day-to-day variations in BC mass concentration (MB) were rather subdued in winter months while quite conspicuous during the spring months. It showed a well defined annual cycle with a maximum (109 ± 78 ng m-3) during spring and minimum during the winter (66 ± 62 ng m-3) season with an annual average MB of 78 ± 64 ng m-3. Examining the frequency distribution, it was found that 64 % of the values were below annual mean MB showing a rather pristine nature for this near free tropospheric region. Trajectory clustering and concentration weighted trajectory (CWT) analysis indicated that, most of the year, the site is influenced from the advection from west and south west Asian locations and only for a small period from the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP). The observations are compared with other high altitude measurements, over the globe in general and around the Himalayan region. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i3.5930 JIE 2011; 8(3): 42-51
Comparison of Ground Based Measurements of Solar UV Index with Satellite Estimation at Four Sites of Nepal
Authors: Sharma Niranjan P , Bhattarai Binod K , Sapkota Balkrishna , Kjeldstad Berit
Published: February 2012

The main objective of this study is to compare the ground based measurements and satellite estimation of solar UV index in four sites namely, Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar and Lukla. Kathmandu (27.72°N, 85.32°E), Pokhara (28.22°N, 83.32°E) Biratnagar (26.45°N, 87.27° E) and Lukla ( 27.69°N, 86.73°E) and are located at an elevation of 1350m, 800m, 72m and 2850m respectively from the sea level. The ground based measurements and satellite estimation were performed by NILUUV irradiance meter and EOS Aura OMI satellite. The NILUUV irradiance meter is a six channel radiometer designed to measure hemispherical irradiances on a flat surface. The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) on board, the NASA EOS Aura space craft is a nadir viewing spectrometer that measures solar reflected and back scattered light in ultraviolet and visible spectrum. The study shows that OMI overestimate the ground based data before monsoon by 71.28%, 47.29%, 27.92% and 35.83% respectively at Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar and Lukla. However during the monsoon period the same comes down to 8.55%, 15.63%, 10.74%, and 11.33% respectively. The main reason behind these discrepancies might be due to the spatial resolution of the satellite which estimates the UV Index on the basis of 13×24 km2 in nadir where as the ground measurement is for a single point. The correlation between satellite derived and ground measured ozone column was found to be 91 % and 89% for Kathmandu and Lukla respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i3.5932 JIE 2011; 8(3): 58-71
Solar UV Irradiance Measurements at Four Sites in Tibet
Authors: Gelsor Norsang , Pingcuo Nima , Wangmu Tsoja , Kjeldstad Berit , Chen Yi-Chun , Frett Øyvind , Stamnes Jakob J , Bhattarai Binod K , Dhalback Arne
Published: February 2012

We present solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiance measurements at four sites in Tibet (Lhasa, Linzhi, Nagqu, and Tingri) for the period between July 2008 and September 2010. Erythemal UV dose rates and irradiances of solar UVA, UVB for all four sites are presented. Days with clear sky cloud transmittance (CLT) larger than 100% are particularly selected and analyzed for the four sites. Comparisons between the four sites are also carried out, and the clear-sky data analyses for the summer time show that Tingri (near Mt. Everest) has the highest UV irradiance, Lhasa the second highest, while Nagchu (Northen Tibet) and Linzhi (Eastern Tibet) have a bit lower values. Tingri has the strongest UV level among the four sites around the year, mainly due to increased albedo caused by snow-covered surroundings. UV data for Lhasa for the period from 2004 to 2010 are also analyzed, showing that the UV instantaneous irradiance trend for the recent six-year period is stable. However, the number of clear-sky days in Lhasa has increased over the recent six years, causing an increase in the yearly-integrated total UV irradiance. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i3.5934 JIE 2011; 8(3): 75-86
Variation of Black Carbon Aerosols on Six Continuous Strike Days of Kathmandu Valley: A Case Study
Authors: Sharma Ram K , Bhattarai Binod K , Sapkota Balkrishna , Gewali Mohan B , Kjeldstad Berit
Published: February 2012

Black carbon (BC) aerosols concentrations were measured using an aethalometer AE 31 at Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Lalitpur, Nepal an urban location of Kathmandu valley. The monitoring was conducted from May 2009 to April 2010. In this paper only the data on 30th April (working day) and six continuous strike days (1- 6 May 2010) are analyzed to find out the actual mass of BC aerosols when vehicular and industrial emission was nearly zero. The daily average BC aerosols on these six days are 4.6, 3.0, 7.6, 7.0, 6.1 and 5.5 μg /m3 respectively. Low concentration of BC aerosols in the earlier days is attributed to rain. The decreasing trend in the later days is due to dispersion of collected people from different parts of the country in the valley for the effective operation of strike. It has been found that the average BC aerosols concentration on strike days is (5.6 ± 1.16) μg /m3 while it is (10 ± 4.9) μg /m3 on 30th April, a regular working day. This indicates vehicles and industries emit about 44% of BC in Kathmandu. The average for the month of April, BC comes out to be 12 ± 4.4 μg /m3 showing the contribution from vehicle and industry to be about 55%. Further, it has been observed that the hourly BC aerosols concentration in the strike days does not follow the typical diurnal variation as in the working days. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i3.5937 JIE 2011; 8(3): 105-113
An Improved Model for the Estimation of Solar Radiation from Satellite Data for Thailand
Authors: Janjai Serm , Masiri Itsara , Pattarapanitchai Somjet , Laksanaboonsong Jarungsaeng
Published: February 2012

This paper presents an improved model for estimating surface solar radiation from satellite data for Thailand. Digital data from the visible channel of the GOES9 and MTSAT-1R satellites were used as the main input data of the model. This model accounted for the scattering of solar radiation by clouds, absorption of solar radiation by water vapour, ozone and gases and solar radiation depletion by aerosols. Additionally, the multiple reflections between the atmosphere and the ground in satellite band, which were ignored in the original model, were included in the improved model. For testing its validity, the model was employed to calculate monthly average daily global solar radiation at 38 solar monitoring stations in Thailand. It was found that the solar radiation calculated from the model and that obtained from the measurements were in good agreement, with a root mean square difference (RMSD) of 6.1% and mean bias difference (MBD) of 0.3%. The performance of the improved model was better than that of the original model. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v8i3.5939 JIE 2011; 8(3): 130-139
Effect Of Levels And Sources Of Protein On The Performance And Nutrient Digestibility In Black Bengal Goat
Authors: Ullah MB , Islam KMS , Akbar MA , Khaleduzzaman ABM , Debi MR
Published: February 2012

Sixteen castrated male Black Bengal goats (aged between 8 and 10 months and average live weight 9.16 kg) were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design to study the effect of protein levels and sources on growth and nutrient digestibility under intensive condition for 56 days. The sources of protein were mustard oil cake (MOC) and soybean meal (SBM). Level of protein in each sources were 22 (HP-high protein) and 16 (LP-low protein) percentage. The dietary treatments were (T1) MOC-HP, (T2) MOC-LP, (T3) SBM-HP and (T4) SBM-LP. Concentrate diets as well as dal grass was fed throughout the experimental period and last week considered for digestibility trial. Average daily live weight gain of goats was 42, 41, 43, and 52 g for the diets T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. The result showed no significant (P>0.05) variation between protein sources and their levels on growth performance. Intake of DM was 425, 389, 407 and 437 g/d which were 4.2, 3.8, 4.0 and 4.1 percent of their body weight for the diets T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Intake of CP was 59, 46, 56 and 50 g/d respectively. The sources of protein did not influence the intake of CP (P>0.05), but their levels had (P<0.05) effect on it. Digestibility of DM was 62, 58, 69 and 68 percent respectively. OM digestibility (g/100g) was 67, 64, 71 and 73 for the diets T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Digestibility (g/100g) of CP was 62, 60, 70 and 69 for the diets T1, T2, T3 and T4 respectively. Thus the result showed that the digestibility of DM, CP and OM was significantly higher for SBM than MOC but their levels varied insignificantly. Therefore low protein supplementation (16%) in a concentrate mixture containing mustard oil cake and/or soybean meal could be suggested for optimizing growth performance of Black Bengal Goat under intensive management system.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9912BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 53-60
Effect Of Wheat Bran Substitution For Corn And Dehydrated Alfalfa On Finishing Lambs
Authors: Islam MS , Khan M , Reza A
Published: February 2012

Two trials with finishing lambs were conducted to study the effect of substituting wheat bran for either dehydrated alfalfa pellets or corn. In trial 1, the basal ration fed to lambs was compared by replacing dehydrated alfalfa (12.5%) with wheat bran. Growth responses to wheat bran or dehydrated alfalfa were not different (P>0.74). In trial 2, thirty-two lambs were blocked by weight and randomly assigned to four treatments consisting of the basal ration plus three different levels of wheat bran (22%, 46% and 68%) substituted for corn. The results indicated that animals on the control diet (without wheat bran) performed better (α = 0.5) than the three wheat bran diets, where the two lowest level of wheat bran diet either maintained or gained weight. Animals on the highest level of wheat bran lost weight. Gain response to the corn diet was higher (P<0.25 and P<0.003) than 22% and 46% wheat bran supplemented diets. Results also indicated that diet- A (control) and diet-C (46% wheat bran) had similar DM digestibilities, where as the diet-B (22% wheat bran) gave higher digestibilities for DM, ADF and NDF. ADF digestibility was very low in control diet (A) as compared to diet-B (22% wheat bran) and diet-C (46% wheat bran) because the control diet contained little fiber. Higher protein digestibility was observed in diet-A. Although, diet-B performed better than diet-C, Performance of diet-B was not parallel to that of diet-A and difference between diet-B and diet-C was not statistically significant (P>0.05). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9913 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 61-66
Anemia in Bangladesh: A Longstanding, Preventable Public Health Problem
Authors: Floral MS , Islam MS
Published: February 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmj.v39i3.8471