bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Murdering and Denouncing Jews in the Polish Countryside, 1942-1945
Authors: Engelking Barbara
Published: July 2011

The Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Poland had several phases. First, Jews were marked with the Star of David badge, then isolated in ghettos, and—at the end—they were murdered in the extermination camps. But thousands of Jews had managed to escape both from ghettos and from camps. Often they were jumping from the trains going to Treblinka, or—after surviving a shooting—escaping from a mass grave. All of them wanted to survive the war. Some tried to stay in the cities; others were looking for help in the countryside. The article is about those Jews who wanted to live through the war among Polish peasants but were betrayed, denounced to the Germans, or murdered.
Jedwabne before the Court
Authors: Persak Krzysztof
Published: July 2011

On 10 July 1941, Jewish inhabitants of the little town of Jedwabne were burnt alive in a barn by their Polish neighbors. This was probably the worst act of violence inflicted on Jews by the Poles during World War II. By examining postwar legal proceedings related to the Jedwabne massacre, this article looks at the attitude of Polish authorities towards crimes committed by the Poles on Jews during the war as well as the reaction of the local community to its own dark past. Although a group of perpetrators were put on trial in 1949 and 1953, criminal court files reveal the indolence and ineffectiveness of Communist Poland’s justice in such cases. The documents also expose a conspiracy of silence among residents of Jedwabne and their solidarity with the defendants. On the other hand, a scrutiny of civil court proceedings discloses mechanisms of appropriation of the victims’ property by the perpetrators. An analysis of a subsequent investigation into the Jedwabne case carried out in the 1960s and 1970s proves that it predominantly aimed at erasing the truth about Polish involvement in the crime, and as its result German gendarmes were officially pointed out as the sole culprits. Only after the restitution of democracy in 1989 was Poland able to openly confront black pages of its history including the Jedwabne massacre.
Cries of the Mob in the Pogroms in Rzeszów (June 1945), Cracow (August 1945), and Kielce (July 1946) as a Source for the State of Mind of the Participants
Authors: Tokarska-Bakir Joanna
Published: July 2011

Although the starting point for all the Polish postwar pogroms (save for one) was a blood libel, this particular motif did not attract the historians’ attention until recently. Theories on plots devised by “Soviet advisors” or “Zionists” enjoyed an incomparably greater popularity. This article, based upon the documentation of the Rzeszów and Kielce pogroms, the most recent ethnographic resources (2005—2009), the documentation used in Marcel Łoziński’s documentary Świadkowie ( The Witnesses; made in 1980s), and an intensive search at the National Remembrance Institute (IPN), reveals a uniform social-mental formation of those partaking in the pogroms—the attackers and militiamen disciplining them, public prosecutors, and judges. All of them—including militiamen and Security Service officers—were subject to a blood libel suggestion. Traces of this thread have survived till this day in some segments of Polish society—not only in the countryside population, despite any appearances. This article aims at showing how an anti-Jewish alliance was getting formed in the first years after the liberation, on the grounds of a gradually strengthening “Polish national socialism,” and along with it, a synthesis of religious anti-Semitism (Jew as a “kidnapper/bloodsucker”) and a modern anti-Semitism (Jew as a “capitalist/bloodsucker” and “Judeo-communists” contaminating a sound national/party organism).
Propulsion performance diagnostics and optimization based on the estimation of measurement biases and hybrid optimization
Authors: Zhang J , Tang H L , Shen G Z , Yang L Y
Published: July 2011

This article deals with performance diagnostics and optimization of aircraft propulsion systems. To eliminate the adverse effects of unknown measurement biases on performance diagnostics, a new design approach based on measurement biases estimation is proposed. In this approach, measurement biases and the component deviation parameters (CDPs) are treated as a part of the augmented state vector, and multiple Kalman filters are designed based on different biases hypotheses to estimate the augmented states. Through the estimated measurement biases, the effects of actual biases are eliminated and accurate performance diagnostics is achieved. Moreover, considering the synthesis influence of linearization errors and initial values on the conventional linear programming (LP) method, a hybrid optimization algorithm based on LP and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) is investigated to improve the optimization accuracy and convergence speed. This algorithm uses a parallel subregion LP method to obtain the global feasible initial value, and then utilizes the SQP algorithm to search for the optimal solution. Simulations are carried out at cruise-operating conditions. The results demonstrate that the CDPs are estimated accurately, and the propulsion performance and online optimization ability are also improved.
Effect of flapping kinematics on the mean lift of an insect-like flapping wing
Authors: Phillips N , Knowles K
Published: July 2011

An experimental investigation of the effects of varying flapping kinematics on the mean lift produced by an insect-like flapping wing in hover is presented. This was performed with application to flapping-wing micro-air vehicles (FMAVs) in mind. Experiments were accomplished with a first-of-its-kind mechanical flapping-wing apparatus capable of reproducing a wide range of insect-like wing motions in air on the FMAV scale (~150 mm wingspan). This apparatus gives an insect-like wing the three controllable degrees of freedom required to produce the three separate motions necessary for mimicking an insect-like flapping-wing trajectory: sweeping (side to side), plunging (up and down), and pitching (angle of attack variation). Lift was measured via a force balance while the following kinematic parameters were varied: flapping frequency ( f ), angle of attack at mid-stroke (αmid), timing of pitch reversal with stroke reversal (rotation phase), stroke amplitude (Φ), and plunge amplitude (Θ). Results revealed that mean lift scaled with f  1.5 and varied proportionally with Φ. A pitch reversal advanced by up to 5 per cent of the flapping period relative to stroke reversal was found to maximize mean lift, and delayed pitch reversals were detrimental to mean lift. Of the parameters tested, mean lift was also maximized for αmid = 45° and Θ = 8.6°.
Public knowledge and its discontents
Authors: Kitcher Philip
Published: July 2011

Ideally, public knowledge should encapsulate the achievements of millennia of inquiry, making them available to individuals and groups for the promotion of their various ends. I explore the ways in which the actual situation fails to live up to this ideal. Our investigations are not always directed towards the questions of most concern to most people, the results on which experts agree are not always based on reasons the broader public is prepared to endorse, and the dissemination of information is so distorted as to make supposedly free discussion and debate an unproductive shouting match. The consequences for democracy are severe, since a healthy system of public knowledge, able to discharge its function, is an essential component of a flourishing democratic society.
Democracy, accountability, and education
Authors: Levinson Meira
Published: July 2011

Educational standards, assessments, and accountability systems are of immense political moment around the world. But there is no developed theory exploring the role that these systems should play within a democratic polity in particular. On the one hand, well-designed standards are public goods, supported by assessment and accountability mechanisms. They have the potential to serve democratic goods in particular, such as transparency, equality, and public discourse. On the other hand, their very potential to advance systemic democratic goods signals a level of reach and power that threatens the achievement of these same democratic values along other dimensions. This is especially evident in the contemporary United States. Adults’ democratically legitimate control over education within a democracy may well undercut children’s legitimate claims to receiving an education that equips them for democracy. Because the latter should trump the former, democratic goods are best achieved through embedding very limited educational standards, assessments, and accountability measures within an educational system that selects, trains, and provides ongoing support to civically engaged and thoughtful educators. Under such circumstances, they may promote a virtuous circle that builds capacity, motivation, and public support for strong and effective civic education practices, while still offering the adult public a strong democratic voice in public schools.
Effects of temperature on interface microstructure and strength properties of titanium–niobium stainless steel diffusion bonded joints
Authors: Kundu S , Chatterjee S
Published: July 2011

The effects of temperature on interface microstructure and strength properties of Ti/stainless diffusion bonded joint using Nb interlayer, processed in the temperature range 800–950°C for 1·5 h in vacuum were investigated. The stainless steel/Nb interface is free from intermetallic phase up to 900°C; however, Fe2Nb+Fe7Nb6 phase mixture has been observed at 950°C processing temperature. The Nb/Ti interface is free from intermetallic for all processing temperatures. The maximum tensile strength of ∼287 MPa (∼90% of Ti) and shear strength ∼222 MPa (∼75% of Ti) along with 6·9% ductility have been achieved in the diffusion bonded joints, when processed at 900°C. The bonded samples failure takes place through the stainless steel/Nb interface for all processing temperatures during the loading.
Development of high strength hot rolled steel sheet for wheel disc application
Authors: Jha G , Haldar A , Bhaskar M S , Venugopalan T
Published: July 2011

A hot rolled steel with unique combination of high strength and excellent ductility coupled with high hole expansion ratio has been developed for automotive applications using a new metallurgical approach. The steel chemistry and processing parameters were designed in such a way that austenite–ferrite phase transformation takes place at lower temperature with interphase precipitation of very fine carbides. A fine ferritic microstructure was produced with an average grain size of 3·4 μm resulting into attractive mechanical properties. Interphase precipitation was used as one of the major strengthening mechanisms apart from grain refinement. This led to an achievement of tensile strength as high as 800 MPa (min.) with an excellent stretch formability and low impact transition temperature. This is a potential grade with unique features which can have wider applications.
Effect of Ce on microstructures and mechanical properties of rapidly solidified Mg–Zn alloy
Authors: Zhou T , Xia H , Chen Z H
Published: July 2011

The rapidly solidified (RS) Mg–Zn based alloys with Ce addition were produced via atomising the alloy melt and subsequent splat quenching on the water cooled copper twin rollers in the form of flakes. The effects of Ce additions on the microstructures, phase compositions, thermal stability and isochronal age hardening behaviour of the RS Mg–Zn alloy were systematically investigated. The RS Mg–6Zn alloy is characterised by fine grains in the size of 6–10 μm and is composed of α-Mg, Mg51Zn20 and a small quantity of MgZn2 and Mg2Zn3 phases. With the increment of Ce, the microstructures of the alloys are refined, and the volume fractions of dispersions are increased remarkably. The stable intermetallic compounds, i.e. the MgxZnyCez ternary phases, are formed in the RS Mg–Zn–Ce alloys at the expense of the Mg51Zn20 phases, which leads to the enhanced thermal stability of the alloys, especially for the Mg–6Zn–5Ce alloy. In the alloy, the atomic percentage ratio of Zn/Ce in the MgxZnyCez phase is close to two, and the maximum hardness is 91·5±7 HV after annealing at 200°C for 1 h. However, the age hardening behaviour of the alloys decreases with the increment of Ce, and the main reason is discussed.
Role of materials surface topography on mammalian cell response
Authors: Anselme K , Bigerelle M
Published: July 2011

Many approaches are used to modify the surface topography of implant materials. Some produce unordered surfaces using, for example, classical implant surface treatments, whereas others produce ordered surfaces by micro- and nanopatterning techniques. Surface topographies can be characterised by several methods that can acquire two-dimensional profiles or three-dimensional measurements and calculate different roughness parameters. The importance of using systematically several roughness parameters for correlation with biological response, and of consider these parameters at different scales will be demonstrated. Furthermore, it will be described, from a general point of view, how cells are able to identify and respond to surface topography. The role of membrane receptors, cytoskeleton, filopods and intracellular signal transduction in the response to topography will be considered and discussed. A critical review of more than 300 papers provides the basis for illustrating how mammalian cells respond to surface topography and how their rugophilia, the increased cell response to rougher surfaces, is a function of cell phenotype. For the first time, the rugophilia of cells from different tissue origins is compared in a synthetic table.
Microstructural characterisation of friction stir processed aluminium
Authors: Yadav D , Bauri R
Published: July 2011

Friction stir processing was carried out on commercially pure aluminium, and a detailed microstructural characterisation was performed by electron backscattered diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Friction stir processing resulted in significant grain refinement with narrow grain size distribution. The microstructure showed fine and equiaxed grains, with some ultrafine grains being also observed. Electron backscattered diffraction studies showed majority of the boundaries to be high angle, confirming the occurrence of dynamic recrystallisation (DRX). Transmission electron microscopy observations revealed dislocation arrangement into subgrain boundaries, grains having different dislocation densities and in different stages/degrees of recovery. Electron backscattered diffraction analysis also revealed a progressive transformation of sub-grain boundaries into high angle grain boundaries. A multimechanism of dynamic recovery, continuous DRX and discontinuous DRX seems to be operating during the process. The microstructure is not affected by changing the rotation speed from 640 to 800 rev min−1, except that the grain size was marginally larger for higher rotational speed.
Transformational Aspects of Arvo Pärt's Tintinnabuli Music
Authors: Roeder John
Published: July 2011

Arvo Pärt's strict and elemental compositional procedures, which have been described and evaluated critically by several scholars, are here expressed via a mathematical formalism drawn from theories of musical transformations. The analytical opportunities that this perspective provides are demonstrated by attributing the melodic and harmonic structures of complete pieces—Fratres, Passio, and The Beatitudes—to the interaction of a very small set of transformations. This representation reveals similarities of form as well as of process among them. It also shows how Pärt's signature harmonic procedure, tintinnabulation, sometimes governs melodic procedure and has melodic meaning while also making it possible to define and recognize harmonic areas, distinctions among harmonies, and systematic reasons for cadences. For instance, transformational expressions for Passio show the interpenetration of melody and harmony and define the field of possibilities in which each melodic/harmonic change takes place—a “space” in which the changes can be heard as meaningful in relation both to themselves and to the text. Overall, these results suggest how the ostensibly mechanical melodic and harmonic processes in this music can be heard as nuanced and expressive. More theoretically, the transformational representation reveals some formal properties of tintinnabulation that suggest some interesting generalizations.
Contextual-Inversion Spaces
Authors: Straus Joseph N.
Published: July 2011

This article creates transformational spaces for interpreting progressions of sets belonging to the same T/I equivalence class. Within these spaces, sets are placed in proximity based upon contextual inversion, specifically those contextual inversions that (like the familiar neo-Riemannian L, P, and R) preserve common tones. Sequential enchaining of contextual inversions will generally define simple, straight-line motions within the spaces described in this article. The musical motions of works by Webern, Schoenberg, and Stravinsky are measured against the systematic standard enshrined in the spaces, with both conformity and deviation suggesting interpretive possibilities. All appendixes for this article are available as supplementary material at http://dx.doi.org/10.1215/00222909-1219196
Empire or Imperialism
Authors: Haug Wolfgang Fritz
Published: July 2011

Haug pursues two objectives in this essay. First, he wants to develop a better understanding of the global conflicts at the beginning of the twenty-first century. To reach that understanding, it is, he argues, necessary to get beyond the crude empiricist language of the mainstream. Secondly, therefore, he elaborates and further develops certain key aspects of Antonio Gramsci's theory of hegemony (consensual leadership through multilateralism vs. mere supremacy, “hegemonic sacrifice,” etc.) in order better to grasp the lines of conflicts in national as well as international politics.

Haug takes as his starting point the guiding question of a 2006 conference in Athens, namely whether the current political conjuncture should be interpreted as one of imperialism or, in Hardt and Negri's sense, as empire. He recasts this question from one of interpretation to one of history, and in so doing he rearticulates the concepts of empire vs. imperialism. He sees transnational high-tech capitalism as having arrived at a crossroads. One path from this crossroads, he argues, leads to rival imperialisms; and the other path leads to the formation of a regulated world market flanked by world ecological and social politics, to, in short, an “empire” of transnational capitalism.

The big question underlying Haug's project is this: Will the United States succeed, after the political, military, and economic debacle of the phase of the unilateral “imperialist” politics of George W. Bush, in recovering a political leadership role in the world? The effort of the United States under President Obama to do so must contend with the Bush legacy, consisting of two unwinnable wars, a deep economic crisis that began as a financial crisis, and a politically and culturally divided nation. Haug's essay does not pretend to answer this larger question; its more modest purpose is foundational, that is, to articulate the question more clearly and to establish the prerequisites and criteria for a proper answer.
Toward a Refutation of Malevolent Voices
Authors: Xun Lu
Published: July 2011

“Po e'sheng lun” (Toward a refutation of malevolent voices) is an essay from the formative period of the famous Chinese writer Lu Xun (1881-1936), penned in Tokyo in the classical Chinese language, and first published in December of 1908 (issue no. 8 of Henan, a soon-to-be-banned journal run by Chinese students in Japan). In many ways it is the most extraordinary of the essays of his Japan period, in that it defends a number of markedly unpopular positions. Lu Xun begins by painting a dark vision of the intellectual and political climes in China at the time of this writing, depicting China as “corroded at the core and wavering spiritually” with all channels for discussion blocked (by the control of the Qing dynasty at home) and the people's minds deluded by the rash doctrines of demagogues and opportunists (active abroad). The author then states his belief that the nation's hope lies in the sincerity and dedication of her intellectuals, especially those who have had experience abroad. By giving voice to their heartfelt sentiments (xinsheng), they may still be able to break through the walls of darkness and silence, and deliver the nation from falsehood and chicanery. But he qualifies this by stressing the limited number of persons with unmitigatedly sincere intention. He ultimately takes China's scholar-gentry to task for having a far greater degree of moral culpability in the present situation than they are willing to admit, rather than blaming it all on the corruption of the dynasty or the avarice of foreign aggressors. In the course of the same argument, he springs to the defense of Buddhism, myth, and religious observances, arguing that those members of the gentry who, presenting themselves as enlightened members of a modern intelligentsia, attack Buddhism as superstition, and superstition as the root of China's backwardness, are merely attempting to foist the blame they ought rightly take themselves onto someone else's shoulders. He further excoriates the simplistic popular trends toward nationalism as bestial jingoism and chauvinism. He ends by exhorting the Chinese to promote the cause of freedom in other countries, as did Byron in aiding the Greek struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire.
The State and the Market: Chinese TV Serials and the Case of Woju (Dwelling Narrowness)
Authors: Hung Ruth Y. Y.
Published: July 2011

The production, consumption, and state control of Chinese TV serial drama can be seen as an instrument of power and profit maximization as well as a medium for mass education and homogenization in the form of popular culture. The serial drama Woju 蜗居 (Dwelling narrowness) (2009) exemplifies the ways in which a prime-time TV serial in twenty-first-century China is a politically, socially, and commercially significant enterprise. Since the 1980s, prime-time serials have emerged as a distinctly successful medium with and through which the Chinese party-state exercises ideological control by entertainment rather than oppression. Indeed, not only did Woju enjoy huge audience popularity, it also benefited from considerable tolerance of the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television (SARFT), which, according to the website Danwai, allowed the drama to “slip” through its guidelines.
Polyaniline as a Functional Binder for LiFePO4 Cathodes in Lithium Batteries
Authors: Tamura Takashi , Aoki Yosuke , Ohsawa Toshiyuki , Dokko Kaoru
Published: July 2011

Chemically synthesized polyaniline (PANI) can be used as a functional binder in the manufacture of the LiFePO4 cathode of lithium batteries, and it provides LiFePO4 particles with effective conduction paths, leading to a very low resistance electrode.
Rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps for perineal reconstruction: modifications to the technique based on a large single-centre experience
Authors: McMenamin DM , Clements D , Edwards TJ , Fitton AR , Douie WJP
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

Perineal wound breakdown with delayed wound healing represents a significant cause of morbidity following surgery and radiotherapy to the perineum. The rectus abdominis myocutaneous (RAM) flap has been used increasingly to reconstruct the perineum with good effect. We describe our six-year experience of reconstruction of the perineum with the RAM flap and share some surgical adjuncts we believe are useful.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective case note review of all patients who underwent a reconstruction of the perineum using the RAM flap between August 2003 and October 2009. Indications for the flap, complication rates and outcomes were all observed.

RESULTS

We conducted 16 RAM flap procedures, 15 of which (94%) were primary repairs and 1 (6%) a secondary repair. Three (19%) developed donor site hernias, two (12.5%) developed minor perineal wound infections, eight (50%) developed minor perineal wound breakdown and in one (6%) flap failure was observed. No perineal hernias were observed. There were no surgical mortalities.

CONCLUSIONS

The RAM flap has a high success rate and an acceptable morbidity rate and is a useful tool in the reconstruction of complex perineal wounds. Modifications to the standard surgical technique may reduce complications and improve the versatility of this flap.
Peritonsillar abscess after tonsillectomy: a review of the literature
Authors: Farmer SEJ , Khatwa MA , Zeitoun HMM
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a common condition with a complicated aetiology. PTA after tonsillectomy is rare. This literature review of PTA in the absence of tonsil tissue aims to collate experience of these cases and examine the wider implications for understanding the aetiology of PTA formation.

METHODS

A structured literature review was performed using Ovid MEDLINE®. Keywords ‘quinsy’ or ‘peritonsillar abscess’ were combined with ‘tonsillectomy’.

RESULTS

The search resulted in 212 citations and the identification of 11 cases of PTA formation in the absence of tonsil tissue. The most common indication for tonsillectomy was recurrent tonsillitis or PTA. Nine patients had no interval peritonsillar infection (ie a peritonsillar infection after a tonsillectomy) prior to presenting with the PTA. The mean interval between tonsillectomy and PTA was 16 years. All patients were managed either by incision and drainage or by needle aspiration with or without antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

PTA in the absence of tonsil tissue is rare. Potential sources of infection include congenital branchial fistulas, Weber's glands and dental disease. These alternatives should also be considered in patients presenting with PTA formation in the absence of concurrent tonsillitis and may influence management decisions.
Intraoperative cell salvage versus postoperative autologous blood transfusion in hip arthroplasty: a retrospective service evaluation
Authors: Mason L , Fitzgerald C , Powell-Tuck J , Rice R
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

A number of ways of reducing blood loss in arthroplasty have been explored, including preoperative autologous transfusion, intraoperative cell salvage and postoperative autologous transfusions. Both intraoperative blood salvage and postoperative retransfusion drains have been shown to be effective in reducing blood loss in total hip arthroplasty. In our department there was a change in practice from using postoperative retransfusion drains to intraoperative cell salvage. To our knowledge no study has directly compared using intraoperative blood salvage and postoperative retransfusion drains alone in total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

This was a retrospective service evaluation including all primary hip arthroplasty performed under our care between January 2006 and December 2008. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A used a postoperative autologous blood transfusion (ABT) drain and Group B used intraoperative cell salvage.

RESULTS

A total of 144 patients were included in this study: 84 in Group A and 60 in Group B. The mean haemoglobin difference for Group A was 3.96g/dl (standard deviation [SD]: 1.52) and for Group B it was 3.46g/dl (SD: 1.42). The mean haematocrit difference for Group A was 0.12% (SD: 0.05) and for Group B it was 0.10% (SD: 0.04). Using an independent t-test for the comparison of means, a significant difference was found between Group A and B both in regards to haemoglobin difference (p=0.009) and haematocrit difference (p=0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

We feel that intraoperative cell salvage provides a more efficient method of reducing blood loss than postoperative retransfusion in primary total hip replacement. A prospective randomised study would be useful to ascertain any clinical difference between the two methods.
A single institution experience with skin sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction
Authors: Doddi S , Singhal T , Kasem A , Desai A
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

Skin sparing mastectomies (SSMs) represent a surgical approach that preserves the natural skin envelope of the breast and, when combined with immediate reconstruction, offers a good cosmetic outcome. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the risk of local recurrence (LR) in this series with the known rate of recurrence following a conventional mastectomy.

METHODS

A total of 108 patients with breast cancer who underwent an SSM and immediate breast reconstruction over a 6-year period were reviewed.

RESULTS

A follow-up of more than eight years showed that three patients (2.78%) had developed LR.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of LR is low with SSMs and is comparable to that seen with conventional mastectomies.
Pancreatic and peripancreatic somatostatinomas
Authors: Williamson JML , Thorn CC , Spalding D , Williamson RCN
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND

Somatostatinomas are rare neuroendocrine tumours with an annual incidence of 1 in 40 million. They arise in the pancreas or periampullary duodenum. Most are clinically non-secretory and do not cause the somatostatinoma syndrome. Many are metastatic at presentation and their management is typically multimodal.

CASE HISTORIES

Four cases of somatostatinoma are described. Two patients with periampullary disease presented with biliary obstruction, one with frank jaundice and one with incidental bile duct obstruction on investigation of hepatitis B. Each patient had type 1 neurofibromatosis and resection of the somatostatinoma by means of a pylorus-preserving proximal pancreaticoduodenectomy has resulted in long-term survival. Another two patients with metastatic pancreatic somatostatinomas presented with abdominal pain. Contrasting management illustrates current treatment strategies that are dependent in part on the distribution of the disease.

DISCUSSION

The pathophysiology, presentation, clinical associations and role of diagnostic imaging are discussed for periampullary and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours. Operative treatment has an important role in both the curative and palliative settings in conjunction with appropriate medical treatments and these are described. Management options depend on the extent of the disease and the cases are used to illustrate the rationale of such strategies.
Native nephrectomy in transplant patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Patel P , Horsfield C , Compton F , Taylor J , Koffman G , Olsburgh J
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

This study examined the clinical indications and timing for native nephrectomy (NN), together with the associated pathological findings in transplant patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) at our institute over a period of 20 years.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of ADPKD patients who had undergone both kidney transplantation and NN. Patients were identified from the kidney transplant database between 1988 and 2008 at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital and the notes reviewed. All NN specimens were re-reviewed and reported according to current guidelines.

RESULTS

There were 157 kidney transplants performed for ADPKD (114 cadaveric and 43 living donor). Of these, 31 required NN (28 bilateral). The timing of NN was pre-transplant in 10 cases, at the time of the transplant in 1 case and post-transplant in 20 cases. The indications for NN were urinary tract infection (n=14, 45%), pain (n=12, 39%), tumour suspicion (n=3, 10%), haematuria (n=1, 3%) and space (n=1, 3%). Mortality in this NN series was 3%, with a 65% surgical morbidity rate. The length of hospital stay post-NN was significantly longer with open compared with laparoscopic techniques (p=0.003). There were two renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) in this series. Both patients presented with macroscopic haematuria (bilateral pT1a papillary RCCs in one case and a pT3b clear cell RCC in the other case). The incidence of RCC in this series of ADPKD transplant patients was 1.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated that the majority of ADPKD patients do not require NN, with only 20% of our series undergoing this procedure. The timing of NN is variable and dictated by indication. NN was only required to make space for transplantation in one case (combined kidney and pancreas transplant). The main indications for NN were recurrent infection and pain, where NN can provide a successful outcome. Laparoscopic NN can be performed safely in patients with ADPKD. Haematuria in such patients should not be assumed to be of benign origin and requires exclusion of urinary tract malignancy as the incidence of RCC in this population is at least as common as in the general population.
Isolated gallbladder perforation following blunt abdominal trauma in a six-year-old child
Authors: Jaggard Matthew KJ , Johal Nav , Haddad Munther , Choudhry Muhammad
Published: July 2011

Isolated perforation of the gallbladder secondary to blunt trauma is rare. Furthermore, only a few cases exist in the infant age group. It has vague symptoms and interpretation of the radiology imaging is challenging. Diagnosis is usually made at operation. We report the case of a six-year-old boy who fell on to the handlebars of his scooter, sustaining an isolated gallbladder perforation. The authors highlight the importance of interpreting the volume of intraperitoneal fluid and early diagnostic laparoscopy.
Alveolar soft part sarcoma causing perianal abscess
Authors: Sullivan Niall , McCulloch Tom , Leverton David
Published: July 2011

A 34-year-old woman presented with a perianal abscess that communicated with the vagina. There was a background of a one-year history of a conservatively treated, traumatic, paravaginal haematoma. Histology of the fistula tract showed alveolar soft part sarcoma and subsequent imaging identified a large soft tissue mass in the pelvis with lung metastases. Alveolar soft part sarcoma is a rare soft tissue sarcoma of unknown cellular origin affecting predominantly young women, often in deep soft tissues and lower extremities.
Swelling in the upper arm: the presentation and management of an isolated brachial artery aneurysm
Authors: Alagaratnam S , Choong A , Lau T , Munro M , Loh A
Published: July 2011

True aneurysms of the brachial artery are uncommon. We describe the presentation and surgical management of an isolated, brachial artery aneurysm in a 64-year-old woman. Excision of the aneurysm and long saphenous venous interposition grafting was performed with no postoperative complications and histology demonstrated true aneurysmal degeneration.
Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis secondary to dermoid cyst rupture: a case report
Authors: Fossey SJ , Simson JNL
Published: July 2011

This case report documents the presentation and management of a 26-year-old female patient diagnosed with SEP secondary to dermoid cyst rupture. The authors postulate that acute chemical peritonitis secondary to dermoid cyst rupture can develop into SEP resulting in the clinical features depicted in this case report.
Conservative surgery in the management of a benign ovarian cystic teratoma presenting as a rectal mass: a case report
Authors: Rajaganeshan R , Wang H , Abouleid A , Scott G , Selvasekar CR
Published: July 2011

Ovarian cystic teratomas constitute 10–15% of all ovarian tumours and are the most common ovarian neoplasms found in adolescence and during pregnancy. Nevertheless, ovarian cystic teratomas have also been described in patients aged 1-91 years. We report an unusual case of a benign ovarian cystic teratoma presenting as a rectal mass that was managed surgically using radical resection by a multidisciplinary team. This case report highlights the importance of preoperative investigations including colonoscopy and radiological investigations. A dedicated pelvic radiologist/pathologist and the involvement of a multidisciplinary team at the time of initial diagnosis and a gynaecologist and colorectal surgeon at the time of surgery will lead to an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment. Although rare, erosion of an ovarian dermoid into the rectum should be considered in young women who have an atypical presentation and are found to have a lesion in the rectum with biopsies indicating benign pathology.
Testicular pain as a presentation of Cowden syndrome
Authors: Alnajjar Hussain M , Sahai Arun , Keane Andrew , Gordon Stephen
Published: July 2011

This case report outlines a rare case in Cowden syndrome and PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) gene mutation and how it may initially present to the urologist. Also known as multiple hamartoma syndrome, Cowden syndrome is a rare disorder associated with the development of several types of malignancy. A thorough search of the literature reveals limited information regarding its presentation to the urologist. We report the case of a 47-year-old gentleman with a two-week history of worsening pain and swelling in his left testicle. Testicular ultrasound revealed multiple hyperechoic areas bilaterally suggestive of multiple lipomas. He was also found to have macrocephaly, freckling of his glans and foreskin and an enlarged nodular goitre and the geneticist diagnosed Cowden syndrome. The disease is discussed and guidance is given on its management and follow up.
The use and effectiveness of cadaveric workshops in higher surgical training: a systematic review
Authors: Gilbody J , Prasthofer AW , Ho K , Costa ML
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this systematic review is to describe the use of cadavers in postgraduate surgical training, to determine the effect of cadaveric training sessions on surgical trainees' technical skills performance and to determine how trainees perceive the use of cadaveric workshops as a training tool.

METHODS

An electronic literature search was performed, restricted to the English language, of MEDLINE®, Embase™, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL®), Centre for Agricultural Bioscience (CAB) Abstracts, the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC™) database, the British Education Index, the Australian Education Index, the Cochrane Library and the Best Evidence in Medical Education website. Studies that were eligible for review included primary studies evaluating the use of human cadaveric surgical workshops for surgical skills training in postgraduate surgical trainees and those that included a formal assessment of skills performance or trainee satisfaction after the training session.

RESULTS

Eight studies were identified as satisfying the eligibility criteria. One study showed a benefit from cadaveric workshop training with regard to the ability of trainees to perform relatively simple emergency procedures and one showed weak evidence of a benefit in performing more complex surgical procedures. Three studies showed that trainees valued the experience of cadaveric training.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence for the effectiveness of cadaveric workshops in surgical training is currently limited. In particular, there is little research into how these workshops improve the performance of surgical trainees during subsequent live surgery. However, both trainees and assessors hold them in high regard and feel they help to improve operative skills. Further research into the role of cadaveric workshops is required.
A new recreational mechanism for the boxer’s knuckle: cause for concern?
Authors: Javed M , Hemington-Gorse S , Shokrollahi K
Published: July 2011

Traumatic injuries of the metacarpophalangeal joints are a common occurrence in professional and recreational sports such as boxing and martial arts, especially the fourth and fifth metacarpals. Injury usually results from a forceful impact with a clenched fist. The spectrum of injuries varies from simple skin laceration to extensor mechanism disruption, dorsal capsule rupture, metacarpal fractures and carpometacarpal joint injuries. These injuries are well documented in boxers as well as in patients who had been involved in fights and assaults. We report on two patients sustaining similar injuries to the dorsum of the hand but following punching of a recreational ’punching machine’. We describe the patterns of injury encountered and summarise the treatment. For clinical and safety reasons as well as the potential medicolegal implications, we believe it is important to highlight this mechanism of injury.
Polymer-embedded gold and gold/silver nanoparticle-modified electrodes and their applications in catalysis and sensors
Authors: Manivannan Shanmugam , Ramaraj Ramasamy
Published: July 2011

Metal nanoparticles encapsulated by silicate sol-gel matrix find numerous applications particularly in electrocatalysis and sensors. In our previous reports, we have reported the mono- and bi-metal gold, silver, and core/shell gold/silver nanoparticles embedded in functionalized silicate sol-gel matrices. Modified electrodes were fabricated using mono- and bi-metallic gold, silver, and core/shell gold/silver nanoparticles embedded in silicate sol-gel, and they were used for the electrocatalysis and sensing of H2O2 and simultaneous detection of hydrazine, sulfite, and nitrite. We have prepared the gold nanoparticles encapsulated by amine-functionalized silicate sol-gel matrix in a single step without using any external reducing agents. The gold nanoparticles were also synthesized by using amine-functionalized silane monomer in the presence of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), resulting in metal/polymer core/shell nanostructures. This nanocomposite material showed a synergistic stabilizing effect when compared to either silicate sol-gel matrix or β-CD alone as stabilizer. The synthesized gold nanoparticles were characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Modified electrodes were prepared by using the gold nanoparticles embedded in silicate sol-gel matrix, and their electrochemical characteristics were studied.
Cultivating Reputations: The Social Goal of Western Australian Primary School Bullies
Authors: Nathan Elijah , Houghton Stephen , Tan Carol , Carroll Annemaree
Published: July 2011

Aim: This research sought to determine the significance of reputation in the lives of bullies particularly in relation to the social purposes it serves and the goals that are met through its enhancement. Method: One hundred and thirty-two (62 males and 70 females) Western Australian Grades 5, 6 and 7 primary school children completed the Reputation Enhancement scale. Of these students, 38 had official records of suspension from school for bullying peers. Major Findings: A multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences between bullies and nonbullies in their reputational orientations. Bullies admired peers involved in nonconforming activities and believed that peers of the same age held similar views. Furthermore, these bullies believed that others perceived them as nonconforming and as breaking the rules, and they (i.e., the bullies) ideally wished to be perceived in this way. These findings are discussed in the light of reputation enhancement theory as a motivator for bullying and the approaches that schools might take to address it.
Septins at the annulus of mammalian sperm
Authors: Toure Aminata , Rode Baptiste , Hunnicutt Gary R. , Escalier Denise , Gacon Gérard
Published: July 2011

The annulus is an electron-dense ring structure connecting the midpiece and the principal piece of the mammalian sperm flagellum. Proteins from the septin family have been shown to localize to the annulus. A septin complex is assembled early in spermiogenesis with the cochaperone DNAJB13 and, in mature sperm, associates with Testis Anion Transporter 1; SLC26A8 (Tat1), a transmembrane protein of the SLC26 family. Studies in mice have shown that the annulus acts as a barrier to protein diffusion and controls correct organization of the midpiece. Consistent with these findings, absence of the annulus is associated with flagellum differentiation defects and asthenozoospermia in humans.
Einsatz der Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/ionisation-Time of Flight Massenspektrometrie (MALDI-TOF MS) in der mikrobiologischen Routinediagnostik/Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) in clinical microbiological routine diagnostics
Authors: Schubert Sören , Wieser Andreas
Published: July 2011

In der jüngsten Vergangenheit hat ein vollkommen neuartiger Ansatz zur Differenzierung von Bakterien und Pilzen die mikrobiologische Diagnostik erweitert: Die Identifikation von Keimen mittels MALDI-TOF Massenspektrometrie, die auf der Analyse ribosomaler Proteine beruht, ist bei vergleichbarer Validität der Untersuchungsergebnisse, wesentlich schneller als konventionelle, biochemische Differenzierungsverfahren. Neben der Identifizierung von Bakterienkolonien auf Festnährmedien können Bakterien und Sprosspilze aus positiven Blutkulturen oder direkt aus Urinproben analysiert werden. Derzeitige Weiterentwicklungen umfassen den Nachweis von β-Laktamase- und Carbapenemase-Aktivität der Bakterien sowie deren Genotypisierung unterhalb der Speziesebene.
Cluster Ion Beam Processing: Review of Current and Prospective Applications
Authors: Yamada Isao , Khoury Joseph
Published: July 2011

Cluster ion beam processes which employ ions comprised of a few hundred to several thousand atoms are being developed into a new field of ion beam technology. The processes are characterized by low energy surface interaction effects, lateral sputtering phenomena and high-rate chemical reaction effects. This paper reviews the current status of studies of the fundamental cluster ion beam characteristics as they apply to nanoscale processing and present industrial applications. As new prospective applications, techniques are now being developed to employ cluster ions in surface analysis tools such as XPS and SIMS and to modify surfaces of bio-materials. Results related to these new projects will also be reviewed.