bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thirty‐two component finite element models of a horse and donkey digit
Authors: Collins S. N. , Murray R. C. , Kneissl S. , Stanek C. , Hinterhofer C.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: The finite element (FE) method is the most powerful modelling technique available to explicate the biomechanics of the digit. It has already proved to be of high value in human podiatry. However, accurate models of the complex anatomy of the horse and donkey digit are currently lacking.

Objectives: To develop FE models of the horse and donkey digit from computed tomography data, including all functionally relevant anatomy, and to perform simulations to replicate prestrain in the flexor tendons and quasistatic weightbearing.

Methods: Computed tomography data of the front right digits were obtained under general anaesthesia. The anatomy was rationalised into 32 functional components. The FE models were generated using a forward engineering technique. Linear or nonlinear material properties were applied according to published data. Prestraining of the flexor tendons was achieved by z‐direction displacement, and loading by the application of 1 × body mass.

Results: The resultant FE models comprised over 106 elements. Z‐direction displacement of the digital flexor tendons to compensate for general anaesthesia relaxation gave von Mises stress levels up to 1.34 MPa for the deep and 0.56 MPa for the superficial in the horse and 0.78 MPa and 0.27 MPa in the donkey, respectively. Weightbearing resulted in capsular deformation patterns consistent with in vivo observations, and maximum stress levels of 1.46 MPa for the horse and 0.89 MPa for the donkey.

Conclusion: These high resolution FE models could give new insight into the biomechanics of the equid digit and provide new data regarding stress and strain levels within the tissues of the digit that are unobtainable by other means.

Potential relevance: Application of the FE modelling technique could enable investigation of the biomechanics of orthopaedic problems and may provide a mechanistic basis for enhanced preventative and remedial management and treatment.
Subscapular lymph node abscessation as a result of metastatic Streptococcus equi subspecies equi infection: An atypical presentation of bastard strangles in a mare
Authors: Whelchel D. D. , Arnold C. E. , Chaffin M. K.
Published: February 2009

The case reported here represents an atypical presentation of bastard strangles in an 18‐year‐old Arab mare. The horse initially presented for progressive neck pain characterised by reluctance to lateral and ventroflexion of the neck. Subsequent diagnostics revealed a subscapular abscess and aspirates of the mass cultured positive for Streptococcus equi ssp. equi. Surgical drainage and debridement of the abscess was performed under general anaesthesia. Six months post surgery, the mare had made a complete recovery.
Crime Specialization across the Canadian Provinces
Authors: Andresen Martin A.
Published: February 2009

For many years, the Canadian provinces have exhibited a pattern where crime rates increase from east to west. Despite this regional pattern of crime being of long standing, there has been little research that attempts to explain it. This present article approaches the problem by calling the pattern itself into question. Using an alternative measure of crime, the location quotient, it is shown that western Canada does not simply have higher levels of all crime in Canada. Rather, while a given individual is more likely to be a victim of a crime in the western provinces, not all crimes are disproportionately higher in the west. It is found that different provinces have different tendencies in relation to particular kinds of crime, and this implies that focusing only on the level of criminal activity may be misleading.
The Saga Continues: Canadian Legislative Attempts to Reform Cannabis Law in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Hyshka Elaine
Published: February 2009

In July 2003, in an article published in the Canadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Fischer, Ala-Leppilampi, Single, and Robins wondered whether Canada's long “saga of promise, hesitation, and retreat” in cannabis law reform was coming to an end, after 30 years of inertia. Their optimism was rooted in the federal government's apparent determination to decriminalize cannabis possession and in an existing socio-political context favourable to reform. Indeed, the government had recently tabled legislation that would decriminalize the possession of small amounts of cannabis, making it a ticketable offence. However, this bill died before it could be passed into law. Two later versions of this legislation also failed to pass through the House of Commons. This paper picks up where Fischer et al. (2003) left off, by updating and reviewing developments in Canadian cannabis policy between 2003 and 2008. It reviews the provisions proposed by Bill C-38 and its successors, tracing the bills’ movements through Parliament and then delineates the positions of key interest groups regarding the decriminalization of minor cannabis possession. It concludes by reflecting on the contemporary period to show that Canada's “saga of promise, hesitation, and retreat” in cannabis law reform continues unabated.
Simulation Study on Optimization of Injection Molding Process for Thin-shell Plastic Parts via the Taguchi Method and Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: Chuang M.-T. , Yang Y.-K.
Published: February 2009

This paper deals with the application computer-aided engineering integrated with statistical techniques to reduce warpage variation due to injection molding process parameters during the production of thin-shell plastic components. For this purpose, Moldflow simulation runs are carried out by utilizing the combination of process parameters based on a three-level L18 orthogonal array table. An optimal parameter combination of the injection molding process is obtained via grey relational analysis (GRA). By analyzing the grey relational grade matrix, the degree of influence for each controllable process factor onto warpage can be found. Additionally, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) is also applied to identify the most significant factor; the melt temperature and the packing pressure are found to be the most significant factors in the simulation process for an injection molding process of thin-shell plastic parts.
Germany's Meta-narrative Memory Culture: Skeptical Narratives and Minotaurs
Authors: Gudehus Christian
Published: February 2009

This article is based on the findings of an empirical study that is being conducted in Austria, Poland, and Germany. The material consists of a total of sixty group discussions with families, people of different age groups, as well as individuals dealing professionally with history and memory, including historians, teachers, politicians, journalists, displaced persons, and Jewish communities. Even if there are differences within every country, one clearly can observe dominant country-specific ways of speaking about the past. The German discourse could be described as a meta-narrative. Germans do not speak mainly about the past itself, but rather about how it should or should not be represented. The narrations are highly skeptical and unheroic. By contrast, the Polish discourse is almost devoid of skeptical narratives. Notions such as “historical truth,” “national pride” and “national history” were dominant in the discussions. The article concludes by noting that even though the modes of narrating the past are different in Germany and Poland, its function remains untouched: the past is always a resource for the construction of coherence and meaning.
The National People's Army as an Object of (Non) Remembrance: The Place of East Germany's Military Heritage in Unified Germany
Authors: Leonhard Nina
Published: February 2009

On 3 October 1990, the National People's Army (NVA) of the German Democratic Republic, in which about 2.5 million East German citizens served their country, was dissolved. Its personnel either was removed from military service, placed into early retirement, or integrated into the Bundeswehr after a two-year selection and examination process. Since then, the NVA has turned into an object of history with no immediate significance for contemporary German society—despite efforts of former NVA officers to change the official interpretation of 1989-1990. This article examines the processes of remembering and forgetting with regard to East Germany's military heritage since 1990, contrasting the Bundeswehr's politics of memory and “army of unity” ethos not only with the former NVA soldiers' vision of the past, but also with the East German population's general attitude towards their former armed forces.
Women's Bodies Between National Hospitality and Domestic Biopolitics
Authors: DIPROSE ROSALYN
Published: February 2009

This paper develops a political ontology of hospitality from the philosophies of Arendt, Derrida and Levinas, paying particular attention to the gendered, temporal, and corporeal dimensions of hospitality. Arendt's claim, that central to the human condition and democratic plurality is the welcome of ‘natality’ (innovation or the birth of the new), is used to argue that the more that this hospitality becomes conditional under conservative political forces, the more that the time that it takes is given by women without acknowledgement or support. Women's bodies are thus caught within the dual poles of conservative government: regulation of the unpredictable expressions of ‘natality’ in the ‘home’ and management of the uniformity and ‘security’ of the nation. The limitations in Arendt's political ontology of hospitality are addressed by adding consideration of the operation of biopolitics and of the body as bios.
Valuing Climate Change Impacts on Human Health: Empirical Evidence from the Literature
Authors: Markandya Anil , Chiabai Aline
Published: February 2009

There is a broad consensus that climate change will increase the costs arising from diseases such as malaria and diarrhea and, furthermore, that the largest increases will be in developing countries. One of the problems is the lack of studies measuring these costs systematically and in detail. This paper critically reviews a number of studies about the costs of planned adaptation in the health context, and compares current health expenditures with MDGs which are felt to be inadequate when considering climate change impacts. The analysis serves also as a critical investigation of the methodologies used and aims at identifying research weaknesses and gaps.
Attitudes toward Methadone among Out-of-Treatment Minority Injection Drug Users: Implications for Health Disparities
Authors: Zaller Nickolas D. , Bazazi Alexander R. , Velazquez Lavinia , Rich Josiah D.
Published: February 2009

Injection drug use (IDU) continues to be a significant public health issue in the U.S. and internationally, and there is evidence to suggest that the burden of injection drug use and associatedmorbidity and mortality falls disproportionately on minority communities. IDU is responsible for a significant portion of new and existing HIV/AIDS cases in many parts of the world. In the U.S., the prevalence of HIV and hepatitis C virus is higher among populations of African-American and Latino injection drug users (IDUs) than among white IDUs. Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) has been demonstrated to effectively reduce opiate use, HIV risk behaviors and transmission, general mortality and criminal behavior, but opiate-dependent minorities are less likely to access MMT than whites. A better understanding of the obstacles minority IDUs face accessing treatment is needed to engage racial and ethnic disparities in IDU as well as drug-related morbidity and mortality. In this study, we explore knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about methadone among 53 out-of-treatment Latino and African-American IDUs in Providence, RI. Our findings suggest that negative perceptions of methadone persist among racial and ethnic minority IDUs in Providence, including beliefs that methadone is detrimental to health and that people should attempt to discontinue methadone treatment. Additional potential obstacles to entering methadone therapy include cost and the difficulty of regularly attending a methadone clinic as well as the belief that an individual on MMT is not abstinent from drugs. Substance use researchers and treatment professionals should engage minority communities, particularly Latino communities, in order to better understand the treatment needs of a diverse population, develop culturally appropriate MMT programs, and raise awareness of the benefits of MMT.
Hookah (Shisha, Narghile) Smoking and Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS). A Critical Review of the Relevant Literature and the Public Health Consequences
Authors: Chaouachi Kamal
Published: February 2009

Hookah (narghile, shisha, “water-pipe”) smoking is now seen by public health officials as a global tobacco epidemic. Cigarette Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) is classically understood as a combination of Side-Stream Smoke (SSS) and Exhaled Main-Stream Smoke (EMSS), both diluted and aged. Some of the corresponding cigarette studies have served as the scientific basis for stringent legislation on indoor smoking across the world. Interestingly, one of the distinctive traits of the hookah device is that it generates almost no SSS. Indeed, its ETS is made up almost exclusively by the smoke exhaled by the smoker (EMSS), i.e. which has been filtered by the hookah at the level of the bowl, inside the water, along the hose and then by the smoker’s respiratory tract itself. The present paper reviews the sparse and scattered scientific evidence available about hookah EMSS and the corresponding inferences that can be drawn from the composition of cigarette EMSS. The reviewed literature shows that most of hookah ETS is made up of EMSS and that the latter qualitatively differs from MSS. Keeping in mind that the first victim of passive smoking is the active smoker her/himself, the toxicity of hookah ETS for non-smokers should not be overestimated and hyped in an unscientific way.
Mitochondrial DNA Instability and Metabolic Shift in Human Cancers
Authors: Lee Hsin-Chen , Wei Yau-Huei
Published: February 2009

A shift in glucose metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis is one of the biochemical hallmarks of tumor cells. Mitochondrial defects have been proposed to play an important role in the initiation and/or progression of various types of cancer. In the past decade, a wide spectrum of mutations and depletion of mtDNA have been identified in human cancers. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that activation of oncogenes or mutation of tumor suppressor genes, such as p53, can lead to the upregulation of glycolytic enzymes or inhibition of the biogenesis or assembly of respiratory enzyme complexes such as cytochrome c oxidase. These findings may explain, at least in part, the well documented phenomena of elevated glucose uptake and mitochondrial defects in cancers. In this article, we review the somatic mtDNA alterations with clinicopathological correlations in human cancers, and their potential roles in tumorigenesis, cancer progression, and metastasis. The signaling pathways involved in the shift from aerobic metabolism to glycolysis in human cancers are also discussed.
A Systems Biology Approach to Investigating Apoptotic Stimuli as Effectors of Cell Metabolism: Practical Application of Top-Down Control Analysis to Attached Neurons
Authors: Jekabsons Mika   B.
Published: February 2009

Reduced glycolytic and mitochondrial respiration rates are common features of apoptosis that may reflect key events contributing to cell death. However, it is unclear to what extent the rate changes can be explained by direct alterations in the kinetics of the participating reactions, as changes in the concentrations of intermediates also affect reaction rates. Direct kinetic changes can be identified, ranked, and compared to the indirect effects mediated by the intermediates using top-down control analysis. Flux changes that are explained primarily by direct effects are likely to be prime targets of the pathways that signal death, and thus important contributors to apoptosis. Control analysis concepts relevant to identifying such effects are reviewed. Metabolic flux measurements are essential for this approach, but can be technically difficult, particularly when using adherent cells such as neurons. A simple method is described that renders such measurements feasible.
Correction: Vatani, A., et al. Prediction of Standard Enthalpy of Formation by a QSPR Model. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2007, 8, 407-432.
Authors: Vatani Ali , Mehrpooya Mehdi , Gharagheizi Farhad
Published: February 2009

We found an error in our paper published in the Int. J. Mol. Sci. recently [1]: on page 409, the Equation (2) should be printed as: [...]
4-[(Pyridin-3-ylmethylene)amino]phenyloctadecanoate
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Ong Lay-Khoon , Win Yip-Foo , Koh Teck-Ming , Yeap Guan-Yeow
Published: February 2009

A new Schiff base 4-[(pyridin-3-ylmethylene)amino]phenyloctadecanoate was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
The X-Ray Crystal Structures of Primary Aryl Substituted Selenoamides
Authors: Li Yang , Hua Guo-Xiong , Slawin Alexandra  M. Z. , Woollins J. Derek
Published: February 2009

The X-ray structures of 12 primary selenoamides are reported. Metric parameters are provided, together with an illustration of the range of hydrogen bonding motifs.
Synthesis of 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D Analogues Featuring a S2-symmetric CD-ring Core
Authors: Minne Garrett , Verlinden Lieve , Verstuyf Annemieke , De Clercq Pierre J.
Published: February 2009

Three analogues of 1a,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), featuring a trans-fused decalin C,D-core with local S2-symmetry, and possessing identical side-chain and seco-B,A-ring structures, have been synthesized starting from readily available (4aR,8aS)-octahydronaphthalene-1,5-dione (7). The very short sequences involve the simultaneous introduction of the side-chain and seco-B,A-ring fragments via Suzuki and Sonogashira coupling reactions. The analogues are devoid of relevant biological activity.
Improving Ship Detection with Polarimetric SAR based on Convolution between Co-polarization Channels
Authors: Li Haiyan , He Yijun , Wang Wenguang
Published: February 2009

The convolution between co-polarization amplitude only data is studied to improve ship detection performance. The different statistical behaviors of ships and surrounding ocean are characterized a by two-dimensional convolution function (2D-CF) between different polarization channels. The convolution value of the ocean decreases relative to initial data, while that of ships increases. Therefore the contrast of ships to ocean is increased. The opposite variation trend of ocean and ships can distinguish the high intensity ocean clutter from ships’ signatures. The new criterion can generally avoid mistaken detection by a constant false alarm rate detector. Our new ship detector is compared with other polarimetric approaches, and the results confirm the robustness of the proposed method.
Combining Multiple Algorithms for Road Network Tracking from Multiple Source Remotely Sensed Imagery: a Practical System and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Lin Xiangguo , Liu Zhengjun , Zhang Jixian , Shen Jing
Published: February 2009

In light of the increasing availability of commercial high-resolution imaging sensors, automatic interpretation tools are needed to extractroad features. Currently, many approaches for road extraction are available, but it is acknowledged that there is no single method that would be successful in extracting all types of roads from any remotely sensed imagery. In this paper, a novel classification of roads is proposed, based on both the roads’ geometrical, radiometric properties and the characteristics of the sensors. Subsequently, a general road tracking framework is proposed, and one or more suitable road trackers are designed or combined for each type of roads. Extensive experiments are performed to extract roads from aerial/satellite imagery, and the results show that a combination strategy can automatically extract more than 60% of the total roads from very high resolution imagery such as QuickBird and DMC images, with a time-saving of approximately 20%, and acceptable spatial accuracy. It is proven that a combination of multiple algorithms is more reliable, more efficient and more robust for extracting road networks from multiple-source remotely sensed imagery than the individual algorithms.
Competence and Certification of Registered Nurses and Safety of Patients in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Kendall-Gallagher Deborah , Blegen Mary A.
Published: February 2009

Background Adverse events that place patients at risk for harm are common in intensive care units. Clinicians’ level of knowledge and judgment appear to play a role in the prevention, mitigation, and creation of adverse advents. Research suggests a possible association between nurses’ specialty certification and clinical expertise. The relationship between specialty certification and clinical competence of registered nurses and safety of patients is a relatively new area of inquiry in nursing.

Objective To explore the relationship between the proportion of certified staff nurses in a unit and risk of harm to patients.

Methods Hierarchical linear modeling was used in a secondary data analysis of 48 intensive care units from a random sample of 29 hospitals to examine the relationships between unit certification rates, organizational nursing characteristics (magnet status, staffing, education, and experience), and rates of medication administration errors, falls, skin breakdown, and 3 types of nosocomial infections. Medicare case mix index was used to adjust for patient risk.

Results Unit proportion of certified staff registered nurses was inversely related to rate of falls, and total hours of nursing care was positively related to medication administration errors. The mean number of years of experience of registered nurses in the unit was inversely related to frequency of urinary tract infections; however, the small sample size requires that caution be exercised when interpreting results.

Conclusions Specialty certification and competence of registered nurses are related to patients’ safety. Further research on this relationship is needed.
Differences in Glucose Values Obtained From Point-of-Care Glucose Meters and Laboratory Analysis in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Cook Anjannette , Laughlin Delyla , Moore Margery , North Doreen , Wilkins Kathleen , Wong Gay , Wallace-Scroggs Allyson , Halvorsen Lisa
Published: February 2009

Background Blood for glucose analysis is often obtained interchangeably from indwelling catheters and fingersticks.

Objectives To determine the level of agreement between glucose values obtained by laboratory analysis and with a point-of-care device for blood from 2 different sources: fingerstick and a central venous catheter.

Methods A method-comparison design was used. Point-of-care values for blood from fingersticks and catheters were compared with laboratory values for blood from catheters in a convenience sample of 67 critically ill patients. The effects of hematocrit level and finger edema on differences in glucose values between the 2 methods were also evaluated. A t test was used to determine differences in glucose values obtained via the 2 methods. Differences and limits of agreement were also calculated.

Results Laboratory glucose values for blood from a catheter differed significantly from point-of-care values for blood from the catheter (t1,66 = −9.18; P < .001) and from a fingerstick (t1,66 = 6.53; P < .001). Glucose values for the 2 methods differed by 20 mg/dL or more for 1 of 6 patients (15%) for catheter samples and for 1 of 5 (21%) for fingerstick samples. Point-of-care glucose values for fingerstick and catheter samples did not differ (P = .98). Hematocrit level significantly explained the difference in glucose values between the 2 methods for both catheter (R2 = 0.288; P < .001) and fingerstick (R2 = 0.280; P = .02) samples.

Conclusions Use of a commonly used point-of-care device when precise glucose values are needed may lead to faulty treatment decisions.
Patients’ Bath Basins as Potential Sources of Infection: A Multicenter Sampling Study
Authors: Johnson Debra , Lineweaver Lauri , Maze Lenora M.
Published: February 2009

Background Nosocomial infections are a marked burden on the US health care system and are linked to a high number of patient deaths.

Objective To identify and quantify bacteria in patients’ bath basins and evaluate the basins as a possible reservoir for bacterial colonization and a risk factor for subsequent hospital-acquired infection.

Methods In a prospective study at 3 acute care hospitals, 92 bath basins, including basins from 3 intensive care units, were evaluated. Sterile culture sponges were used to obtain samples from the basins. The culture sponges were sent to an outside laboratory, and qualitative and quantitative microbial tests were conducted and the results reported.

Results Some form of bacteria grew in 98% of the samples (90 sponges), either by plating or on enrichment (95% confidence interval, 92%–99.7%). The organisms with the highest positive rates of growth on enrichment were enterococci (54%), gram-negative organisms (32%), Staphylococcus aureus (23%), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (13%), methicillin-resistant S aureus (8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5%), Candida albicans (3%), and Escherichia coli (2%). Mean plate counts, in colony-forming units, were 10 187 for gram-negative organisms, 99 for E coli, 30 for P aeruginosa, 86 for S aureus, 207 for enterococci, and 31 for vancomycin-resistant enterococci.

Conclusions Bath basins are a reservoir for bacteria and may be a source of transmission of hospital-acquired infections. Increased awareness of bath basins as a possible source of transmission of hospital-acquired infections is needed, particularly for high-risk patients.
Mycobacterium fortuitum abdominal wall abscesses following liposuction
Authors: Al Soub Hussam , Al-Maslamani Eman , Al-Maslamani Mona
Published: February 2009

We describe here a case of abdominal abscesses due to Mycobacterium fortuitum following liposuction. The abscesses developed three months after the procedure and diagnosis was delayed for five months. The clues for diagnosis were persistent pus discharge in spite of broad spectrum antibiotics and failure to grow any organisms on routine culture. This condition has been rarely reported; however, the increasing number of liposuction procedures done and awareness among physicians will probably result in the identification of more cases. Combination antibiotic therapy with surgical drainage in more extensive diseases is essential for cure.
Retinoblastoma: A spectrum of manifestations in three cases on B-scan
Authors: Aironi V. D. , Chougule Sonesh , Khetarpal Suneet , Bhati Gopalsingh
Published: February 2009

Retinoblastoma is a primary intraocular neoplasm of childhood, presenting with leukocoria.We present a spectrum of three cases. First two cases are of bilateral retinoblastoma and last case is a retinoblastoma of right eye. All cases are confirmed to be retinoblastoma on operation and consequent histopathological study.
Evaluation of coronary artery disease by computed tomography angiography and calcium scoring on a 16-slice MDCT scanner in diabetic and nondiabetic patients
Authors: Agarwal Vikrant , Kundu Bijon , Sharma Surendra
Published: February 2009

Objectives : To evaluate the coronary arteries by CT angiography (CTA) and calcium scoring (CS) with 16-slice MDCT for detection of coronary artery disease (CAD) by plaque detection, plaque characterization as well as quantifying luminal narrowing and to correlate the incidence and severity of CAD in diabetic and nondiabetic subjects. Materials and Methods: One hundred and five patients (76 men, 29 women) aged 26-89 years underwent MDCT angiography with CS. Significant luminal stenosis was defined as a reduction in lumen diameter greater than or equal to 50%. The presence of calcification was determined by using the Agatston method. Incidence and severity of CAD were noted in diabetic (DM) and nondiabetic (nonDM) patients. Results : On comparing the CS in patients with DM and nonDM, there was a marked increase in the CS in diabetic patients. Seventy six per cent of diabetic patients showed calcific plaques whereas only 37% of nonDM patients showed calcific plaques. Conclusion: DM patients show significantly more CS than nonDM patients. Calcific plaques are more common in DM than nonDM patients. Double and triple vessel involvement is more common in DM than the nonDM patients.
Single umbilical artery: Prevalence and clinical significance in prenatal sonography
Authors: Ghatresamani Fatemeh , Javadrashid Reza , Tarzamni Mohammad K , Farhang Sara
Published: February 2009

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of single umbilical artery (SUA) in an Iranian population and to determine the absent side and its association with malformations. Methods: We prospectively studied 3240 singleton pregnancies of 14 to 30 weeks of gestational age with USG. The absent side, pregnancy data, and the perinatal outcome were reviewed. Results: SUA occurred in 1.1% of pregnancies. The artery was absent on the left side in 27 (71.1%). Nine of those with SUA had malformations (24%) and there were three deaths. The average stage of pregnancy at which SUA was diagnosed was at 27 weeks and 2 days. 20 fetuses were male. Conclusion: The prevalence of SUA and associated anomalies in our population seems to be similar to that reported in other countries. Absence of the left artery was more common. Evaluating cord vessels at the 20 th week of pregnancy is valuable and fetuses with an isolated SUA will benefit from a more detailed assessment and USG monitoring.
Case report: Epidermoid cyst misdiagnosed as a loculated pericardial effusion
Authors: Sharma NC , Sharma Anshu , Bajaj Manish
Published: February 2009

A 25-year old man presented with a mediastinal lesion which was initially diagnosed as a loculated pericardial collection on echocardiography. Subsequent imaging showed it to be a cystic mediastinal mass, and following surgery and histopathology, it turned out to be an epidermoid cyst.
Right-sided hemiagenesis of the thyroid lobe and isthmus: A case report
Authors: Tiwari Prabhat Kumar , Baxi M , Baxi J , Koirala D
Published: February 2009

Unilateral or bilateral hypoplasia or agenesis of one or both thyroid lobes, with or without isthmic agenesis, is a rare developmental anomaly. Hemiagenesis of the left lobe is far commoner than of the right. Clinically, these patients may be euthyroid, hyperthyroid, or hypothyroid. Ultrasonography is usually able to diagnose this condition easily, as we demonstrate in this case report of a 37-year-old lady with an incidentally detected thyroid nodule who was found to have hemiagenesis of the right lobe and isthmus.
Case series: Nocardiosis of the brain and lungs
Authors: Sud Seema , Buxi TBS , Anand Ish , Rohatgi Anshu
Published: February 2009

Localized and multisystem nocardiosis is an opportunistic disease that occurs commonly in immunocompromised patients. Rarely, it is also seen in immunocompetent individuals. The lungs and brain are commonly involved. Typical, but nonspecific, findings are often seen on imaging and the presence of concomitant lesions in these two systems often suggests this diagnosis. We report two cases of cerebral and pulmonary involvement by nocardiosis.
CT perfusion in acute stroke
Authors: Khandelwal Niranjan
Published: February 2009

Stroke is a heterogeneous syndrome caused by multiple mechanisms, all of which result in disruption of normal cerebral blood flow and thereby cause cerebral dysfunction. Its early diagnosis is important as its treatment is dependent on the time elapsed since ictus. Delay in diagnosis and treatment translates into increase neuronal loss and thereby increased morbidity. CT scan, and in particular perfusion CT, has helped greatly in the early diagnosis of stroke. This article is an endeavor to explain the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia and the role of CT perfusion in detecting it.
PET/CT: Current status in India
Authors: Rangarajan Venkatesh , Purandare Nilendu C , Sharma Anshu R , Shah Sneha
Published: February 2009

PET/CT is a new modality with integration of PET and CT systems. In India, since December 2004 there has been a steady increase in the number of imaging systems. From stand-alone PET/CT systems with on-site cyclotrons, mostly in the government sector, the modality has matured to such an extent that, today, the majority of the PET/CT scanners and cyclotrons are in the private setup; also, scanners situated in different locations (and even different cities) share the isotope produced from one cyclotron. This shows how much this field has developed and reflects the confidence of the end users. The current status of PET/CT in India is indeed healthy and heartening and the future certainly looks promising.
Absent pulmonary valve syndrome with tetralogy of Fallot and associated dextrocardia detected at an early gestational age of 26 weeks
Authors: Bharati Alpa H , Naware Ajita , Merchant Suleman A
Published: February 2009

Absent pulmonary valve syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly, usually seen in association with a ventricular septal defect. It has been reported to occur in 3-6% of cases of tetralogy of Fallot. Absence of the pulmonary valve results in a dilated main pulmonary artery, which can be seen as a cystic, pulsatile, paracardiac lesion on antenatal USG. Such a lesion, though rare, can easily be detected. We report a case of this rare anomaly which was present in association with a ventricular septal defect, tetralogy of Fallot, and dextrocardia. The case was detected at 26 weeks of gestation.
Case report: Antenatal diagnosis of congenital high airway obstruction syndrome - laryngeal atresia
Authors: Garg Mukesh Kumar
Published: February 2009

Congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS) is a near fatal condition of multifactorial inheritence, in which the fetus has a dilated trachea, enlarged echogenic lungs, an inverted or flattened diaphagram, and ascites. A case of CHAOS, diagnosed antenatally on USG at 28 weeks of gestation, is being reported here.
Case Report: Macrodystrophia lipomatosa - Illustration of two cases
Authors: Singla V , Virmani V , Tuli P , Singh P , Khandelwal N
Published: February 2009

Macrodystrophia lipomatosa is a rare cause of congenital macrodactyly, characterized by progressive proliferation of all mesenchymal elements, with a disproportionate increase in fibroadipose tissue. This developmental anomaly is reportedly more common in the foot than in the hand, with a predilection for the plantar and median nerve distribution. We present two cases of MDL of the hand, one of which had an unusual nerve territory distribution, making clinical diagnosis difficult. Preoperative diagnosis was however made on the basis of radiography and MRI and was later confirmed on surgery.
Case Report: Congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of face
Authors: Rajeswaran Rangasami , Murthy Jyotsna , Chandrasekharan Anupama , Joseph Santhosh
Published: February 2009

Congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of the face is a rare condition characterized by diffuse fatty infiltration of the facial soft tissues. There may be muscle involvement along with associated bony hyperplasia. It is a type of lipomatous tumor that is congenital in origin; it is rare and seen usually in childhood. We recently saw an 11-year-old girl with this condition. She presented with a swelling of the right side of the face that had been present since birth; there were typical findings on plain radiographs, CT, and MRI. The patient underwent cosmetic surgery. Histopathological examination showed mature adipocytes without any capsule.
Fetal environment
Authors: Kinare Arun
Published: February 2009

The intrauterine environment has a strong influence on pregnancy outcome. The placenta and the umbilical cord together form the main supply line of the fetus. Amniotic fluid also serves important functions. These three main components decide whether there will be an uneventful pregnancy and the successful birth of a healthy baby. An insult to the intrauterine environment has an impact on the programming of the fetus, which can become evident in later life, mainly in the form of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain learning disabilities. The past two decades have witnessed major contributions from researchers in this field, who have included ultrasonologists, epidemiologists, neonatologists, and pediatricians. Besides being responsible for these delayed postnatal effects, abnormalities of the placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid also have associations with structural and chromosomal disorders. Population and race also influence pregnancy outcomes to some extent in certain situations. USG is the most sensitive imaging tool currently available for evaluation of these factors and can offer considerable information in this area. This article aims at reviewing the USG-related developments in this area and the anatomy, physiology, and various pathologies of the placenta, umbilical cord, and the amniotic fluid.
Extraconal cavernous hemangioma of orbit: A case report
Authors: Anand Rama , Deria Kavita , Sharma Pankaj , Narula MK. , Garg Rajiv
Published: February 2009

Cavernous hemangioma is the most common benign noninfiltrative neoplasm of the orbit. Most cavernous hemangiomas are intraconal and lateral in location. We present a case of a cavernous hemangioma with an unusual extraconal and superomedial location.
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for osteoid osteoma: How we do it
Authors: Jankharia Bhavin , Burute Nishigandha
Published: February 2009

Aims and Objectives: To describe our technique for performing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in osteoid osteoma and to evaluate the results of treatment. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 40 patients in whom RFA was performed for osteoid osteomas between October 2005 and February 2008. The lesions were located in the femur (n = 22), tibia (n = 10), humerus (n = 2), acetabulum (n = 2), radius (n = 1), fibula (n = 1), patella (n = 1), and calcaneum (n = 1). The procedure was performed using a standard technique. Results: Technical success was achieved in all patients, with intranidal localization of the needle and complete ablation. All patients were fully weight bearing 2-3 h after the procedure. Successful pain relief was achieved in all patients within 48 h. Immediate complications included a case of minor thermal skin burn and a small cortical chip fracture, which healed on its own. There were no delayed complications. The average follow-up period was 12 months. Two patients (5% of cases) had recurrence of pain after intervals of 5 and 8 months, respectively, following the ablation; this was due to recurrence of the lesion. Complete pain relief was however achieved after a second ablation in both cases. Thus, our primary and secondary clinical success rates were 95 and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: RFA is a safe, quick, minimally invasive, and extremely effective method for the management of osteoid osteomas.
Fetal echocardiography
Authors: Chaubal Nitin G. , Chaubal Jyoti
Published: February 2009

USG performed with a high-end machine, using a good cine-loop facility is extremely helpful in the diagnosis of fetal cardiac anomalies. In fetal echocardiography, the four-chamber view and the outflow-tract view are used to diagnose cardiac anomalies. The most important objective during a targeted anomaly scan is to identify those cases that need a dedicated fetal echocardiogram. Associated truncal and chromosomal anomalies need to be identified. This review shows how fetal echocardiography, apart from identifying structural defects in the fetal heart, can be used to look at rhythm abnormalities and other functional aspects of the fetal heart.
Intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas: A Review
Authors: Gupta AK , Periakaruppan AL
Published: February 2009

Dural arteriovenous fistulas are fistulas connecting the branches of dural arteries to dural veins or a venous sinus. Digital subtraction angiography remains the gold standard for diagnosing these fistulas. Endovascular treatment is one of the first line options available for their management. This review article reviews the etiopathogenesis, natural history, common classification systems and various available treatment options.
64-slice CT imaging in a case of total anomalous pulmonary venous circulation
Authors: Shaheen Feroze , Gojwari Tariq A. , Andrabi Manzoor , Sofi Sanjid , Singh Manjit
Published: February 2009

For long, catheter angiography has been the investigation of choice for the diagnosis of congenital anomalies of the heart such as total anomalous pulmonary venous circulation (TAPVC). In the last few years, MRI and multislice CT scan have also been introduced for this purpose. We report a case where 64-slice CT scan was found very useful in the evaluation of TAPVC.
Pictorial essay: MRI of the fetal brain
Authors: Rao B Ganesh , Ramamurthy BS
Published: February 2009

MRI is a useful supplement to USG for the assessment of fetal brain malformations. Superior soft tissue contrast and the ability to depict sulcation and myelination are the strengths of MRI. Subtle or inconclusive USG abnormalities can be confirmed or ruled out by MRI. In some cases, additional findings detected with MRI often help in arriving at a definitive diagnosis, which is necessary for parental counseling and for guiding management. Fast T2W sequences form the basis of fetal MRI. There have been no reports of deleterious effects of MRI on the fetus. A few case examples are presented to illustrate the advantages of MRI.
Case series: TRAP sequence
Authors: Chandramouly M ,   Namitha
Published: February 2009

TRAP (twin reversed arterial perfusion) sequence / acardiac twinning is a rare anomaly that occurs in monozygotic monochorionic twins with an incidence of 1% and in 1 in 35,000 pregnancies overall. The anomalous twin appears as a heterogeneous mass, simulating a teratoma or intrauterine fetal demise. As the normal twin faces increased morbidity and mortality, antenatal diagnosis with gray-scale examination, and Doppler confirmation of the diagnosis of TRAP sequence in twin pregnancies, aids in proper prenatal management. We report two cases of TRAP sequence that we encountered over a single month, with the two cases having different outcomes.
Prenatal diagnosis of left ventricular aneurysm
Authors: Balakumar K
Published: February 2009

Fetal cardiac anomalies involving the ventricular and atrial septa, outflow tracts, chambers, and valves are often encountered in routine screening. However, the prenatal detection of a fetal left ventricular aneurysm is rare. This report describes the case of a left ventricular aneurysm that was diagnosed at 24 weeks of gestation; the diagnosis was later confirmed by postnatal echocardiography. This case is reported because of its rarity and the characteristic echocardiographic findings. An early specific antenatal USG diagnosis helps in prognostication and in counseling of the parents.
Untreated Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders Among Caregivers With Children Reported to Child Protective Services
Authors: Mark Tami L. , Dolan Melissa , Allaire Benjamin , Parish William , Strack Claire , Poehler Diana , Madden Emily , Butler Valeria
Published: April 2024

Importance

Mental and substance use disorders can interfere with parents’ ability to care for their children and are associated with a greater likelihood of child protective services involvement to address child maltreatment. Parent engagement in psychiatric and substance use disorder treatment can prevent child maltreatment and family separations.

Objective

To determine whether caregivers with psychiatric or substance use disorders whose children were referred to child protective services received Medicaid-funded psychiatric or substance use disorder treatment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Caregivers listed on child welfare records were linked with their Medicaid records using 2017 to 2020 Medicaid and child welfare data from Florida and Kentucky. Medicaid claims were analyzed to determine if caregivers had a psychiatric or substance use disorder diagnosis and whether those caregivers received counseling or medications. The analysis was conducted in 2023.

Exposure

Diagnosis of a psychiatric or substance use disorder in 2020.

Main Outcome and Measure

Receipt of psychiatric or substance use disorder counseling or medications.

Results

Of the 58 551 caregivers, 65% were aged between 26 and 40 years; 69% were female and 31% were male. Overall, 78% identified as White, 20% identified as Black/African American, and less than 1% identified as American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, or Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander. In 2020, 59% of caregivers with Medicaid and children referred to child protective services had a mental health or substance use disorder diagnosis, compared with 33% of age- and sex-matched Medicaid beneficiaries without children referred to child protective services (P < .001). Among caregivers with a psychiatric disorder, 38% received counseling and 67% received psychiatric medication. Among those with a substance use disorder, 40% received counseling and 38% received a substance use disorder medication.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case-control study, despite Medicaid coverage of an array of effective behavioral health treatments, large portions of caregivers with Medicaid coverage, who need treatment and whose children were referred to child protective services, were not receiving treatment. Medicaid and child welfare agencies should make a greater effort to connect caregivers to behavioral health services.
Increased ROS levels in mitochondrial outer membrane protein Mul1‐deficient oocytes result in abnormal preimplantation embryogenesis
Authors: Nakai Ann , Fukushima Yuki , Yamamoto Ayaka , Amatsu Yuki , Chen Xiaoyan , Nishigori Mitsuhiro , Yoshioka Yukino , Kaneko Mari , Koshiba Takumi , Watanabe Toshio
Published: April 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with oocyte maturation inhibition, and N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC) partially reduces their harmful effects. Mitochondrial E3 ubiquitin ligase 1 (Mul1) localizes to the mitochondrial outer membrane. We found that female Mul1‐deficient mice are infertile, and their oocytes contain high ROS concentrations. After fertilization, Mul1‐deficient embryos showed a DNA damage response (DDR) and abnormal preimplantation embryogenesis, which was rescued by NAC addition and ROS depletion. These observations clearly demonstrate that loss of Mul1 in oocytes increases ROS concentrations and triggers DDR, resulting in abnormal preimplantation embryogenesis. We conclude that manipulating the mitochondrial ROS levels in oocytes may be a potential therapeutic approach to target infertility.