bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Claiming Liberalism: Enrique Krauze, Vuelta, Letras Libres, and the Reconfigurations of the Mexican Intellectual Class
Authors: Prado Ignacio M. Sánchez
Published: March 2010

This article analyzes the impact that Enrique Krauze, Vuelta and Letras Libres have had in the reconfiguration of the figure of the public intellectual in Mexico, as well as their role in the formulation of liberalism from Mexico. The article traces the different configurations of intellectual practice implicit in both magazines, as well as the intellectual genealogies traced both by the different authors published by them, and by the intellectual sources of Krauze's work. The text concludes with a reflection on the impact of this intellectual line in the relationship between culture and the public intellectual in today's Mexico.
From Travelogues to Political Intervention in Juliet Barrett Rublee's Flame of Mexico
Authors: Arredondo Isabel
Published: March 2010

Although she is absent from most film histories, feminist activist Juliet Barrett Rublee produced what is probably the first US feature film made entirely in Mexico, Flame of Mexico (1932). This article argues that Flame is a crossover film; it shares with film travelogues the desire to bring US audiences the world beyond our reach, but it crosses over by creating a dramatic narrative that addresses US-Mexico policy, specifically the effects of the oil laws of President Calles (1925). Unlike typical 1920s US films, Rublee makes the US character, the oil investor Thorton, the villain.
Pas de deux: la mutua lectura de Octavio Paz y Robert Motherwell
Authors: de Schmidt Aurora Camacho
Published: March 2010

Este artículo examina el diálogo pictórico-poético entre Octavio Paz y Robert Motherwell, el eminente representante del arte expresionista abstracto norteamericano. Juntos produjeron un libro (Nueva York, 1987) que contiene 26 litografías en que Motherwell interpreta tres poemas de Paz, incluyendo el que éste había escrito sobre su obra. Analizando la difícil relación entre imagen pictórica y la poesía que la interpreta, o viceversa, pretendo mostrar que estos dos grandes artistas del siglo XX hicieron de ese diálogo una búsqueda humanista y metafísica. Finalmente sugiero que la conciencia de las dimensiones trágicas de la historia de México está presente en el encuentro de Paz con la pintura de Motherwell.
Diet-induced alterations in hepatic progesterone (P4) catabolic enzyme activity and P4 clearance rate in lactating dairy cows
Authors: Lemley C O , Vonnahme K A , Tager L R , Krause K M , Wilson M E
Published: March 2010

Elevated rates of steroid clearance may lead to lower reproductive success in several mammalian species. Cytochrome P450 (EC 1.14.14.1) and aldo-keto reductases (AKR; EC 1.1.1.145–151) are involved in the first phase of steroid inactivation, before second phase conjugation and excretion of the steroid metabolite. The current objectives were to determine liver blood flow (LBF), hepatic enzyme activity, and metabolic clearance rate (MCR) of progesterone (P4) in dairy cows consuming isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets formulated to cause divergent insulin secretion. Insulin concentrations increased by 22% in cows fed the high cornstarch diet, and both cytochrome P450 2C and cytochrome P450 3A activities were decreased (P<0.05) by ∼50%, while AKR1C tended (P<0.10) to be lower in cows fed the high cornstarch diet. LBF was similar between the two diets (1891±91 l/h). MCR of P4 tended (P<0.10) to be lower in cows fed the high cornstarch diet (25±5 l/h×BW0.75) versus the high fiber diet (40±6 l/h×BW0.75). The half-life of P4 was increased (P<0.05) in cows fed the high cornstarch diet (73±10 min) versus the high fiber diet (24±10 min). In summary, cows with elevated insulin concentrations and lower enzyme activity showed a decrease in P4 clearance without any changes in LBF. This dietary relationship with hepatic enzyme activity may explain some of the observed alterations in steroid profiles during the estrous cycle or gestation of the high producing dairy cow.
Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Prevalence and Treatment Referral Among Asian Americans Undergoing Community-Based Hepatitis Screening
Authors: Hwang Jessica P. , Mohseni Mahfam , Gor Beverly J. , Wen Sijin , Guerrero Heather , Vierling John M.
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We sought to identify cross-sectional hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HCV prevalence among Asian Americans at a community health fair and to assess referral rates.

Methods. We determined HBV prevalence with hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc), and antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs). We determined HCV prevalence with hepatitis C antibodies. Successful referral occurred when participants with HBV or HCV were contacted, medically evaluated, and given contact information of liver specialists for care.

Results. Of 202 people screened, 118 were Asian Americans (65 Chinese and 39 Vietnamese). Twelve had chronic HBV with positive HBsAg. However, chronic HBV prevalence increased from 10.2% to 13.6% by concomitant HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs testing. Prevalence of HCV was 6% overall but 15.4% among Vietnamese. Overall, 83% of patients with chronic HBV and 100% of patients with occult HBV or HCV were successfully referred.

Conclusions. Concomitant HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs testing permits diagnosis of chronic, occult HBV infections missed by testing with HBsAg alone. Persons identified with HBV or HCV at community health fairs can be successfully referred.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Health in the United States: What the Patterns Tell Us
Authors: Braveman Paula A. , Cubbin Catherine , Egerter Susan , Williams David R. , Pamuk Elsie
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We aimed to describe socioeconomic disparities in the United States across multiple health indicators and socioeconomic groups.

Methods. Using recent national data on 5 child (infant mortality, health status, activity limitation, healthy eating, sedentary adolescents) and 6 adult (life expectancy, health status, activity limitation, heart disease, diabetes, obesity) health indicators, we examined indicator rates across multiple income or education categories, overall and within racial/ethnic groups.

Results. Those with the lowest income and who were least educated were consistently least healthy, but for most indicators, even groups with intermediate income and education levels were less healthy than the wealthiest and most educated. Gradient patterns were seen often among non-Hispanic Blacks and Whites but less consistently among Hispanics.

Conclusions. Health in the United States is often, though not invariably, patterned strongly along both socioeconomic and racial/ethnic lines, suggesting links between hierarchies of social advantage and health. Worse health among the most socially disadvantaged argues for policies prioritizing those groups, but pervasive gradient patterns also indicate a need to address a wider socioeconomic spectrum—which may help garner political support. Routine health reporting should examine socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparity patterns, jointly and separately.
Explaining Ethnic Disparities in Patient Safety: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Suurmond Jeanine , Uiters Ellen , de Bruijne Martine C. , Stronks Karien , Essink-Bot Marie-Louise
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We explored characteristics of in-hospital care and treatment of immigrant patients to better understand the processes underlying ethnic disparities in patient safety.

Methods. We conducted semistructured interviews with care providers regarding patient safety events involving immigrant patients in in-hospital medical care and treatment, for a total of 30 cases. Interviews were transcribed and qualitatively analyzed with a framework method.

Results. Three key patterns were identified from the analysis. Patient safety events occur because of (1) inappropriate responses by health care providers to objective characteristics of immigrant patients, such as low Dutch language proficiency, lack of health insurance, or genetic conditions; (2) misunderstandings between patients and care providers because of differences in illness perceptions and expectations about care and treatment; and (3) inappropriate care because of providers' prejudices against or stereotypical ideas regarding immigrant patients.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that organizational and health professional practices contribute to the higher risk of patient safety events. Descriptive epidemiological research is needed to explore the impact of the 3 patterns on patient safety.
Customizing Survey Instruments and Data Collection to Reach Hispanic/Latino Adults in Border Communities in Texas
Authors: O'Hegarty Michelle , Pederson Linda L. , Thorne Stacy L. , Caraballo Ralph S. , Evans Brian , Athey Leslie , McMichael Joseph
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We sought to modify an instrument and to use it to collect information on smoking knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors among Hispanics/Latinos, and to adapt survey methods to obtain high participation levels.

Methods. Promotoras (outreach workers) conducted face-to-face interviews with 1485 Hispanic adults (July 2007–April 2008). The project team used GeoFrame field enumeration methods to develop a sampling frame from households in randomly selected colonias (residential areas along the Texas–Mexico border that may lack some basic necessities (e.g. portable water), in El Paso, Texas.

Results. The revised questionnaire included 36 unchanged items from the State Adult Tobacco Survey, 7 modified items, and 17 new items focusing on possible culturally specific quitting methods, secondhand smoke issues, and attitudes and knowledge about tobacco use that might be unique for Hispanic/Latino groups. The eligibility rate was 90.2%, and the conservative combined completed screener and interview response rate was 80.0%.

Conclusions. Strategic, targeted, carefully designed methods and surveys can achieve high reach and response rates in hard-to-reach populations. Similar procedures could be used to obtain cooperation of groups who may not be accessible with traditional methods.
Coverage and Framing of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities in US Newspapers, 1996–2005
Authors: Kim Annice E. , Kumanyika Shiriki , Shive Daniel , Igweatu Uzy , Kim Son-Ho
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We examined how causes of and solutions to racial/ethnic health disparities are covered and framed in newspapers over time.

Methods. We used LexisNexis to identify articles on racial/ethnic health disparities published from 1996 through 2005 in 40 US newspapers. We coded articles for diseases and racial/ethnic groups mentioned; whether causes and solutions were framed as genetic, behavioral, health care, or societal responsibility; and whether a social-justice rationale for eliminating racial/ethnic health disparities was invoked.

Results. We identified 3823 racial/ethnic health disparity articles. Coverage peaked in 1998 and has declined since. Disparities in HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular disease, and cancer generated the most coverage. Articles focused primarily on African Americans. Only 30% of articles provided causal or solution explanations, with academic researchers providing the most causal explanations and advocacy groups providing the most solutions. For both causes and solutions, behavioral explanations dominated the discourse, followed by societal, health care, and genetic explanations. Only 4% of articles invoked a social-justice rationale.

Conclusions. The dominance of behavioral explanations may limit public support for policy solutions to eliminate racial/ethnic health disparities. Future research should examine the design and dissemination of effective messages about the social determinants of health.
PREJUDICE & POLICY Racial Discrimination in the Union Army Disability Pension System, 1865-1906
Authors: Wilson Sven E.
Published: March 2010

The Union Army disability pension was an early experiment in colorblind social policy. However, it shortchanged Blacks in 2 ways. First, the law was unable to account for the challenges Blacks faced in proving their eligibility because of the legacy of slavery and discrimination against Black troops during the Civil War. Second, the increasing leniency accorded White soldiers by the Pension Bureau was not extended in the same measure to Blacks. Active discrimination against Blacks resulted in part from local discretion, evidenced by the significantly lower approval rates for both White and Black veterans in the South. Furthermore, when Whites and Blacks claimed disabilities that were easily verifiable, outcomes were similar, but when verification required a degree of trust, Blacks fared considerably worse than Whites.
Racial Disparities in Receipt of Influenza and Pneumococcus Vaccinations Among US Nursing-Home Residents
Authors: Li Yue , Mukamel Dana B.
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We examined racial disparities in receipt and documentation of influenza and pneumococcus vaccinations among nursing-home residents.

Methods. We performed secondary analyses of data from a nationally representative survey of White (n = 11 448) and Black (n = 1174) nursing-home residents in 2004. Bivariate and multivariate analyses determined racial disparities in receipt of influenza vaccination in 2003 and 2004, receipt of pneumococcus vaccination ever, and having a documented history for each vaccination.

Results. The overall vaccination rate was 76.2% for influenza and 48.5% for pneumococcus infection. Compared with Whites, Blacks showed a 13% lower vaccination rate and a 5% higher undocumentation rate for influenza, and a 15% lower vaccination rate and a 7% higher undocumentation rate for pneumococcus. For influenza, the odds ratio (OR) for Blacks being unvaccinated was 1.84 (P ≤ .001), and the OR for Blacks having undocumented vaccination was 1.85 (P = .001). For pneumococcus infection, the OR for Blacks being unvaccinated was 1.70 (P ≤ .001), and the OR for Blacks having undocumented vaccination was 1.95 (P ≤ .001). Stratified analyses confirmed persistent racial disparities among subpopulations.

Conclusions. Racial disparities exist in vaccination coverage among US nursing-home residents. Targeted interventions to improve vaccination coverage for minority nursing-home residents are warranted.
The Boston Safe Shops Model: An Integrated Approach to Community Environmental and Occupational Health
Authors: Roelofs Cora , Shoemaker Paul , Skogstrom Tiffany , Acevedo Persio , Kendrick Jumaane , Nguyen Nancie
Published: March 2010

Small, immigrant-owned businesses, such as auto repair shops and nail salons, often face barriers to environmental and occupational health compliance and may be a source of neighborhood pollution complaints. The Boston Public Health Commission established the Safe Shops Project to improve safety and environmental practices in such businesses using a community partnership model that incorporates enforcement inspection findings, worker training, technical assistance, and referral to health care and business resources. This integrated technical assistance approach has led to improved occupational health and environmental conditions, adoption of pollution prevention technologies, novel problem-solving, and dozens of health screenings and insurance referrals for workers and their neighbors.
Decline in US Breast Cancer Rates After the Women's Health Initiative: Socioeconomic and Racial/Ethnic Differentials
Authors: Krieger Nancy , Chen Jarvis T. , Waterman Pamela D.
Published: March 2010

Objectives. We investigated whether there were socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities in recent reported declines in overall US breast cancer incidence rates attributed to post-2002 declines in hormone therapy use following publication of the Women's Health Initiative study.

Methods. We analyzed 1992–2005 US breast cancer incidence data from the US Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Result (SEER) 13 Registries Database, stratified by race/ethnicity, county income level, age, and estrogen receptor (ER) status.

Results. As we hypothesized, between 1992 and 2005, the temporal pattern of rising and then falling US breast cancer incidence rates occurred only among White non-Hispanic women who lived in high-income counties, were aged 50 years and older, and had ER-positive tumors. No such trends were evident—regardless of county income level, ER status, or age—among Black non-Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, or—where numbers were sufficient to conduct meaningful analyses—American Indian/Alaska Native women.

Conclusions. The recent decline in US breast cancer incidence was not equally beneficial to all women, but instead mirrored the social patterning of hormone therapy use. Joint information on socioeconomic resources and race/ethnicity is vital for correctly understanding disease distribution, including that of breast cancer.
Community-Based Participatory Research Contributions to Intervention Research: The Intersection of Science and Practice to Improve Health Equity
Authors: Wallerstein Nina , Duran Bonnie
Published: March 2010

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) has emerged in the last decades as a transformative research paradigm that bridges the gap between science and practice through community engagement and social action to increase health equity.

CBPR expands the potential for the translational sciences to develop, implement, and disseminate effective interventions across diverse communities through strategies to redress power imbalances; facilitate mutual benefit among community and academic partners; and promote reciprocal knowledge translation, incorporating community theories into the research.

We identify the barriers and challenges within the intervention and implementation sciences, discuss how CBPR can address these challenges, provide an illustrative research example, and discuss next steps to advance the translational science of CBPR.
Sour Gas Gathering In Alberta
Authors: Berry A.L.
Published: March 2010

Seventy percent of all natural gas going to market from, Alberta is produced from sour gas fields. Without the recent advances in design, construction and operation of gathering systems to collect this sour gas for treating at central points prior to transmission in large diameterlines, this potential would not have been realized. The Canadian Standards Association draft gas pipe line code contains requirements for material and equipment, design, installation, inspection, operation and control of these systems.

Introduction

In 1952 Alberta's first central gas treating plant, capable of producing elemental sulphur from hydrogen sulphide in the raw natural gas commenced operation with a capacity of 30 long tons of sulphur per day. During the past 15 years, because of the demand for -clean dry gasfor domestic fuel and the world demand for elemental sulphur, nineteen major treating plants capable of producing elemental sulphur have been built in Alberta with total production in excess of 5,000 long tons ofsulphur per day. The total maximum day delivery to main transmission lines is now in excess of 2 billion cubic feet with some 70% of this coming from the sour gas fields.

METHODS

In general there are two main methods by which sour gas is gathered in the fields; one method is by removal of water at the well and the other is by transporting the whole well stream. The major problems are hydrate control and corrosion control which are much more critical in a sour gassystem than in a sweet gas system.

DRY SOUR GAS GATHERING – In a dry system the sour gas is dehydrated at the wellhead to remove sufficient water to lower the hydrate formation temperature to less than the lowest flowing temperature in the system. The most common methods are as follows:

Glycol Dehydration – Usually used where operating pressures are in the order of'1200 psig or less. If the gas being collected is not too sour, the standard glycol dehydration unit may be used and the regeneration fuel is taken from the well stream. Where the well stream is very sour, the use of well stream gas for fuel creates problems in pollution control and therefore sweet fuel gas is returned from the central treating plant through a separate system usually in the same ditch as the sour gas gathering system. In some cases the rich glycol is piped to the central plant for treating and the lean glycol returned in a separate line.

Dry Desiccant Dehydration – This type of system has been used for operating pressures in the 2000 psi range where it has been considered necessary to effect almost complete removal of water fromthe system.

WET SOUR GAS GATHERING – In a wet system it is necessary to provide sufficient heat to maintain the gathering system temperature at all points above the hydrate point of the sour gas being transmitted. The most common methods are as follows:

Heater Systems – This is the most common installation in Alberta for wet systems.
The Tangleflags North Pilot A Horizontal Well Steamflood
Authors: Jespersen P.J. , Fontaine T.J.
Published: March 2010

Primary production from the Tangleflags North Lloydminster sand in the steamflood project area commenced in 1982. Despite encouraging initial oil rates, rapid water coning rendered operations uneconomic with recoveries of less than 1% of oil-in-place. The area is underlain by an extensive aquifer and oil viscosity is 13,000 mPa.s. This paper describes preliminary feasibility investigations and the results of a steamflood field pilot which commenced operation in late 1987. Discussion of operating experience including well design considerations, is included. The project has recently been expanded Gild now includes two horizontal producing wells and Jive steam injectors. Performance to date is encouraging and agrees well with early numerical model predictions.

Introduction

The Tanglenags North field is located twenty-two miles northeast of the city of L1oydminster, as shown in Figure 1, and has been producing heavy oil since 1977. Development of the Lloydminster sand reservoir initially took place in the vicinity of the discovery well at BlO-1O-52-25 W3M. Drilling to confirm an extension of the channel sand trend to lands north of the North Saskatchewan River was carried out during the period 1982 to 1985, delinealing what is now designated as the steamflood project area. Despite generally good initial oil productivity, primary recovery has been poor due to rapid coning in of water from the underlying aquifer. High water cut and resulting poor economics have resulted in the suspension or abandonment of all but one vertical primary producing well in the steamflood project area. Recovery to date by the vertical wells has amounted to only 0.6% of the original oil-in-place. Well performance and recovery status for the project area wells is summarized in Table 1.

Excellent pay thickness and reservoir quality in the Lloydminster zone led to consideration of steam injection methods to improve recovery efficiency, although the presence of a bottom water zone and a gas cap represented significant obstacles. Preliminary work in the form of a cyclic steam injection test, laboratory core floods and numerical reservoir simulation, led to the drilling of a horizontal producing well in the fall of 1987. Steam injection through an array of vertical wells commenced in June of 1988 and a second horizontal producing well was added in the fall of 1990. By the end of May 1991, cumulative oil production from the project was 151,200 m3 (951 MSTB) and a peak monthly oil rate of 370 m3/d (2330 B/D) had been achieved.
Solids Flow Models for Gas - Flowing Solids - Fixed Bed Contactors
Authors: Nikacevic Nikola M , Dudukovic Milorad P.
Published: March 2010

Three solids flow models for gas  flowing solids  fixed bed contactors are analyzed. They all presume axial dispersion in the dynamic, freely flowing zone, but they differ in the interpretation of the stagnant zone. The models have been examined and the model parameters have been optimized on the basis of two types of tracer experiments. One provides step response curves for flowing solids at the exit and the other presents the response curves of the static flowing solids holdup. The model which assumes axial dispersion and exchange between dynamic and two active static zones, most accurately describes the solids flow pattern. A simpler model which presumes exchange between dynamic and one static zone can be used if there is no need for a precise description of the behavior of stagnant particles. The most simple axial dispersion model is not realistic, as it does not explain stagnancy at all, which was experimentally observed for the gas  flowing solids  fixed bed contactors.
Training Phrase-Based Machine Translation Models on the Cloud: Open Source Machine Translation Toolkit Chaski
Authors: Gao Qin , Vogel Stephan
Published: March 2010

Training Phrase-Based Machine Translation Models on the Cloud: Open Source Machine Translation Toolkit Chaski

In this paper we present an opensource machine translation toolkit Chaski which is capable of training phrase-based machine translation models on Hadoop clusters. The toolkit provides a full training pipeline including distributed word alignment, word clustering and phrase extraction. The toolkit also provides an extended error-tolerance mechanism over standard Hadoop error-tolerance framework. The paper will describe the underlying methodology and the design of the system, together with instructions of how to run the system on Hadoop clusters.
Long-Term Stability and Minimal Detectable Change of the Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test
Authors: Hall Toby , Briffa Kathy , Hopper Diana , Robinson Kim
Published: March 2010

Study Design

Reliability of clinical measurements over time.

Objectives

To determine the long-term stability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the flexion-rotation test (FRT) measurements over days in subjects with cervicogenic headache (CGH).

Background

The FRT is used by physical therapists to assist in identifying upper cervical movement impairment, as well as to gauge treatment effectiveness. Test-retest reliability for the FRT has been reported, but the stability of range-of-motion measures taken during the FRT over time and the MDC have not been investigated.

Methods

Fifteen subjects with CGH were evaluated on headache-free days using the FRT by a blinded examiner at baseline, 2, 4, and 14 days later. An additional 10 asymptomatic subjects were included for blinding purposes. On each occasion, the examiner measured range of motion and determined whether the FRT was positive or negative.

Results

For subjects with CGH, there was no significant change in FRT range of motion over days (P>.05). Intraclass correlation coefficients for intratester reliability were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.90 to 0.98) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.94 to 0.99) for right and left rotation, respectively. MDC90 was 4.7° for right rotation and 7° for left rotation. Examiner interpretation of the FRT was consistent over time, with κ= 0.92.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that FRT measurements are stable over time, and the MDC90 indicates that a change in FRT range of motion of at least 7° is required to be confident that a change has occurred due to an intervention rather than measurement error. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther2010;40(4):225–229. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3100
Reducing Impact Loading During Running With the Use of Real-Time Visual Feedback
Authors: Crowell Harrison Philip , Milner Clare E. , Hamill Joseph , Davis Irene S.
Published: March 2010

Study Design

Single-subject with repeated measures.

Objectives

To determine if runners can use real-time visual feedback from an accelerometer to achieve immediate reductions in tibial acceleration and vertical-force loading rates.

Background

Stress fractures are a common injury among runners. Previous studies suggest that runners with higher than normal tibial acceleration and vertical-force loading rates are at increased risk for tibial stress fractures. If these runners can be trained to reduce the loading on their lower extremities, it may reduce their risk of stress fractures.

Methods

Five subjects participated in this study. All subjects ran on a treadmill, instrumented with force transducers, during a single 30-minute session that was divided into warm-up, feedback, no-feedback, and cool-down periods. During running, the subjects also wore an accelerometer taped to their distal right tibia. Peak positive acceleration of the tibia, vertical force impact peak, and average and instantaneous vertical-force loading rates were assessed at the end of the warm-up, feedback, and no-feedback periods.

Results

Single-subject analysis revealed that 4 of the 5 subjects had significant reductions in their peak positive acceleration at the end of the no-feedback period compared to the warm-up. In addition, all of the subjects had significant decreases in impact peak and vertical ground reaction force loading rates at the end of the no-feedback period.

Conclusions

In a single session of training with real-time visual feedback, it appears that most runners can reduce the types of lower extremity loading associated with stress fractures. This may lead to training programs that reduce the risk of stress fractures for runners.

Level of Evidence

Prevention, level 5. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(4):206–213. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3166
Outcome and survival following primary and repeat surgery for World Health Organization Grade III meningiomas
Authors: Sughrue Michael E. , Sanai Nader , Shangari Gopal , Parsa Andrew T. , Berger Mitchel S. , McDermott Michael W.
Published: March 2010

Object

Despite an increased understanding of the biology of malignant meningioma tumor progression, there is a paucity of published clinical data on factors affecting outcomes following treatment for these lesions. The authors present the largest case series to date dealing with these tumors, providing analysis of 63 patients.

Methods

The authors identified all patients undergoing resection of WHO Grade III tumors at their institution over a 16-year period. They analyzed clinical data from these patients, and performed Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses to determine the impact of different clinical characteristics and different treatment modalities on survival following initial and repeat surgery for these lesions.

Results

Sixty-three patients met inclusion criteria and were analyzed further. The median clinical follow-up time was 5 years (range 1–22 years). The 2-, 5-, and 10-year overall survival rates following initial operation were 82, 61, and 40%, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated a marked survival benefit with repeat operation (53 vs 25 months, p = 0.02). Interestingly, patients treated with near-total resection experienced improved overall survival when compared with patients treated with gross-total resection at initial (p = 0.035) and repeat operations (p = 0.005). Twelve (19%) of 63 patients experienced significant neurological morbidity referable to the resection of their tumors.

Conclusions

Surgery is an effective treatment for WHO Grade III meningiomas at presentation and recurrence; however, aggressive attempts to achieve gross-total resection can be associated with significant neurological risk.
Clinical evaluation of flat-panel detector compared with multislice computed tomography in 65 patients with acute intracranial hemorrhage: initial results
Authors: Struffert Tobias , Eyupoglu Ilker Y. , Huttner Hagen B. , Engelhorn Tobias , Doelken Marc , Saake Marc , Ganslandt Oliver , Doerfler Arnd
Published: March 2010

Object

The goal in this study was to compare flat-panel detector (FD) CT with multislice (MS) CT in the visualization of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), intraventricular hemorrhage, and external ventricular drains (EVDs) to evaluate the diagnostic quality and limitations of the new FD CT imaging modality.

Methods

Neuroimages obtained in 65 patients, including 24 with EVDs, were reviewed by 2 independent, experienced clinicians. Lesions in all patients were investigated with FD CT and MS CT. The numbers of slices positive for ICH and SAH were counted, and for ICH the diameter and area of the lesion was measured. The positioning of drains was assessed. The presence of ventricular blood was noted. Statistical analysis was performed by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) to evaluate the level of inter- and intraobserver agreement, and linear regression analysis was done to visualize the results of the numbers of ICH- and SAH-positive slices.

Results

The authors found high interobserver agreement regarding the number of slices with evidence of ICH (r = 0.89 for MS CT, r = 0.78 for FD CT) and SAH (r = 0.88 for MS CT, r = 0.9 for FD CT). Thin layers of blood in the ventricles were not detected on FD CT in 36.4% of cases. Six of 7 perimesencephalic SAHs were not seen on FD CT scans. The EVDs could be assessed with both modalities in 83.3% of cases, but the position of the drain could not be determined with FD CT in 16.7% (4 of 24 cases).

Conclusions

In some respects, FD CT is of limited use for the visualization of intracranial hemorrhage. However, despite limited contrast resolution, ICH and EVDs can be reliably demonstrated. Perimesencephalic SAH and thin layers of blood in the occipital horns may not be detected using FD CT. Further evaluation and improvement of the image quality is necessary before FD CT will provide identical quality in comparison with MS CT.
The role of radical microsurgical resection in multimodal treatment for skull base meningioma
Authors: Ichinose Tsutomu , Goto Takeo , Ishibashi Kenichi , Takami Toshihiro , Ohata Kenji
Published: March 2010

Object

Because resection followed by timely stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is becoming a standard strategy for skull base meningiomas, the role of initial surgical tumor reduction in this combined treatment should be clarified.

Methods

This study examined 161 patients with benign skull base meningiomas surgically treated at Osaka City University between January 1985 and December 2005. The mean follow-up period was 95.3 months. Patients were categorized into 3 groups based on the operative period and into 4 groups based on tumor location. Maximal resection was performed as first therapy throughout all periods. In the early period (1985–1994), in the absence of SRS, total excision of the tumor was intentionally performed for surgical cure of the disease. In the mid and late periods (1995–2000 and 2001–2005), small parts of the tumor invading critical neurovascular structures were left untouched to obtain good functional results. Residual tumors with high proliferation potential (Ki 67 index > 4%) or with progressive tendencies were treated with SRS. The extent of initial tumor resection, recurrence rate, Karnofsky Performance Scale score, and complication rate were investigated in each group.

Results

The mean tumor equivalent diameter of residual tumors was 3.67 mm in the no-recurrence group and 11.7 mm in the recurrence group. The mean tumor resection rate (TRR) was 98.5% in the no-recurrence group and 90.1% in the recurrence group. A significant relationship was seen between postoperative tumor size, TRR, and recurrence rate (p < 0.001), but the recurrence rate showed no significant relationship with any other factors such as operative period (p = 0.48), tumor location (p = 0.76), or preoperative tumor size (p = 0.067). The mean TRR was maintained throughout all operative periods, but the complication rate was lowest and postoperative Karnofsky Performance Scale score was best in the late period (p < 0.001 each). Late-period results were as follows: mean TRR, 97.9%; mortality rate, 0%; and severe morbidity rate, 0%. Stereotactic radiosurgery procedures were added in 27 cases (16.8%) across all periods. Throughout all follow-up periods, 158 tumors were satisfactorily controlled by maximal possible excision alone or in combination with adequate SRS.

Conclusions

The combination of maximal possible resection and additional SRS improves functional outcomes in patients with skull base meningioma. A TRR greater than 97% in volume can be achieved with satisfactory functional preservation and will lead to excellent tumor control in combined treatment of skull base meningioma.
Simulation Model for Stochastic Analysis and Performance Evaluation of Condensate System of a Thermal Power Plant
Authors: Gupta Sorabh , Tewari PC
Published: March 2010

This paper discusses the stochastic analysis and performance evaluation of condensate system of a thermal plant. These opportunities will be identified by evaluation of a simulation model to be built for the condensate system. The present system under study consists of six subsystems A, B, C, D, E, and F arranged in series with two feasible states: working and failed. After drawing transition diagram, differential equations are generated and then a probabilistic simulated simulation model using Markov approach has been developed considering some assumptions. Performance matrix for each subsystem is also developed, which provide various availability levels. On the basis of this study, performance of each subsystem of condensate system is evaluated and then maintenance decisions are made for subsystems. Key words: Transition diagram; Markov approach; Performance matrix; Maintenance decisions. DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v44i4.4587 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 44(4), 387-398, 2009
Measurement of Natural and Artifical Radionuclides of Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni Extract
Authors: Salam M Abdus , Ahmed Kabir , Morshed AJM , Hossain MK , Chowdhury S Yesmin , Chowdhury Md Musa
Published: March 2010

Present study was carried out to measure the natural and artificial radionuclides of two different extract of Stevia Rebandiana Bertoni and a standard sugar solution. Factor affecting low-background Germanium Spectroscopy with HPGE Detectors, which is sensitive to all Gamma energies have been used for the measurement of natural and artifical radionuclides in stevia extracts and sugar solution. By analyzing two different types of Stevia extract samples and standard sugar solution sample, no significant presence of natural radionuclides were observed compared with background count. We also didn't find any artificial radionuclides in these three samples. So based on above observation we conclude that the leaves of Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni extract is very safe to use as substitute of sugar as sweetener in foods and beverages for diabetics and obese people due to their potent sweetener stevioside and free of artifical radionuclides. Key Words: Natural radionuclides; Artificial radionuclides; Stevia extract; Sweetener; Food additives DOI: 10.3329/bjsir.v44i4.4600 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 44(4), 467-472, 2009
Density of intraspecific competitors determines the occurrence and benefits of accelerated germination
Authors: Orrock John L. , Christopher Cory C.
Published: March 2010

Germination is a key process in plant recruitment and population dynamics, and seeds are expected to be under strong selection pressure to germinate under conditions that maximize subsequent plant survival. Increased rates of germination (i.e., accelerated germination) may occur in competitive environments. We examined the effects of conspecific density on the timing of germination of seeds of a bird‐dispersed plant, Phytolacca americana (Phytolaccaceae, L.), in three different competitive environments. By comparing germination of seeds sown at the same time at different densities, we quantify the benefits of accelerated germination under conditions in which differences in performance among seedlings are attributable to germination timing only, and not to being sown at different times. We find that although the probability of germination is unchanged, the time to initiation of germination is significantly shorter when competition is greater. We also show that plants that germinate earlier are larger and have higher growth rates because they have more time to grow without competitors. Our work demonstrates that shifts in germination timing in response to competition can yield significant dividends for seeds that germinate earliest, but we caution that the magnitude and consequences of accelerated germination will likely depend on the competitive neighborhood.
Drought stress signals in modern and subfossil Quercus laurifolia (Fagaceae) leaves reflect winter precipitation in southern Florida tied to El Niño–Southern Oscillation activity
Authors: Wagner‐Cremer Friederike , Donders Timme H. , Visscher Henk
Published: March 2010

In the present study, structural xeromorphic features in modern and subfossil Quercus laurifolia leaves from southern Florida were quantified to reconstruct past precipitation changes in sensitive terrestrial settings. Absolute cell numbers/mm2, quantified as epidermal cell density (ED) have been analyzed on leaves from herbarium collections as well as the leaves accumulated during the past 125 years in peat deposits. The results reveal a common principal correlation between the measured ED and winter precipitation (November through March, NDJFM: Herbarium r = −0.74; peat profiles FAK98 r = −0.72, FAK02 r = −0.53) providing a measure of seasonal drought stress. In Florida, the amount of winter precipitation depends on El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) activity, where El Niño years produce wet and cold winters, while La Niña winters are dry and warm. The negative correlation between cell numbers and winter precipitation has the potential to record precipitation variability from subfossil leaves on near‐annual to decadal time scales. In subtropical, terrestrial environments, where traditional paleo‐proxies are limited, systematic analysis of leaf morphological characteristics can provide important information on precipitation changes through time.
A reassessment of the function of floral nectar in Croton suberosus (Euphorbiaceae): A reward for plant defenders and pollinators
Authors: Narbona Eduardo , Dirzo Rodolfo
Published: March 2010

Typically, plant–pollinator interactions are recognized as mutualistic relationships. Flower visitors, however, can potentially play multiple roles. The floral nectar in Croton suberosus has been proposed to operate as a reward for predators, especially the wasp Polistes instabilis (Vespidae), which kills herbivorous insects, while the plant has been thought to be mainly wind‐pollinated. In this study, we reassessed the pollination mode of C. suberosus and the possible role of its flower visitors. Pollinator exclusion experiments demonstrated that C. suberosus should be considered a strictly entomophilous species. Inflorescences of C. suberosus were visited by a diverse entomofauna involving 28 taxa belonging to six orders; however, wasps and bees were the only visitors that carried C. suberosus pollen. The visitation rate of wasps was approximately four times that of bees. This observation, combined with the fact that the small size of bees makes effective contact of their bodies with the stigma difficult, strongly suggests that large wasps are responsible for most of the effective pollination of C. suberosus. Among the wasp visitors, P. instabilis seems to be one of the most important. These findings expose an unusual plant–insect interaction, in which the plant provides nectar and wasps pollinate and defend the plant.
Precipitation trends in the Kalu Ganga basin in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ampitiyawatta AD , Guo Shenglian
Published: March 2010

Kalu Ganga basin is one of the most important river basins in Sri Lanka which receives very high rainfalls and has higher discharges. Due to its hydrological and topographical characteristics, the lower flood plain suffers from frequent floods and it affects socio-economic profile greatly. During the past several years, many researchers have investigated climatic changes of main river basins of the country, but no studies have been done on climatic changes in Kalu Ganga basin. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate precipitation trends in Kalu Ganga basin. Annual and monthly precipitation trends were detected with Mann-Kendall statistical test. Negative trends of annual precipitation were found in all the analyzed rainfall gauging stations. As an average, -0.98 trend with the annual rainfall reduction of 12.03 mm/year was found. April and August were observed to have strong decreasing trends. July and November displayed strong increasing trends. In conclusion, whole the Kalu Ganga basin has a decreasing trend of annual precipitation and it is clear that slight climatic changes may have affected the magnitude and timing of the precipitation within the study area Key words: Kalu Ganga basin; precipitation; trend; Mann-Kendall statistical test. DOI: 10.4038/jas.v4i1.1641 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2009, vol. 4, no. 1 pp.10-18
Genetic enhancement of sugarcane (Saccharum sp. hybrids) for resistance to red rot disease and economic traits
Authors: Babu C , Koodalingam K , Natarajan US , Shanthi RM , Govindaraj P
Published: March 2010

The present experiment was conducted at Sugarcane Breeding Institute (ICAR), Coimbatore to generate diverse genetic stocks for resistance to red rot disease caused by Colletotrichum falcatum Went. and other important economic traits. This study was carried out with progenies obtained from 39 crosses involving 45 parental clones of interspecific and intervarietal origin. The interspecific origin involves diverse forms of Saccharum officinarum and S. spontaneum that are hitherto unutilized in the breeding programme. The progenies were evaluated for resistance to red rot disease and economic traits such as cane yield and quality. Out of 39 crosses investigated for race specific resistance as a qualitative trait, 18 crosses showed a simple Mendelian segregation of monogenic nature. Parent progeny regression analysis suggested that about 50% of the variation in the population could be attributed to additive genetic variance (horizontal resistance). Two crosses involving susceptible parents viz., 971235 (S) x Co 1148 (S) and Co 88028 (S) x Co 775 (S) contributed 28-30% resistant progenies. These transgressive segregants are likely to be stable in their resistance due to additive genetic action and could be used as donor parents in red rot resistance breeding programmes for imparting race non-specific resistance. The present investigation has also identified some specific cross combinations for yield, quality in addition to red rot resistance for further exploitation in breeding programme. Key words: Genetic enhancement; Saccharum sp. Hybrids; red rot resistance DOI: 10.4038/jas.v4i3.1648 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2009, vol. 4, no. 3 pp.97-107
Effects of copper sulphate and cobalt chloride on in vitro performances of traditional indica rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties in Sri Lanka
Authors: Amarasinghe AAY
Published: March 2010

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of copper sulphate and cobalt chloride on the rate of callus proliferation and the in vitro regeneration in nine indica rice varieties and a Japonica variety. The disinfected seeds were inoculated in callus initiation medium composed of N6 basal elements, 1000 mg/l proline, 2 mg/l 2,4-D and 3% (w/v) sucrose to screen high responsive varieties. Calli of screened varieties were used to determine the effects of additives on in vitro responses in proliferation and regeneration media. Taipei 309, Pachcha Perumal, Heenati Vee and Suvandel were screened as high responsive varieties at P ≤ 0.05. The rate of callus proliferation in the screened varieties was significantly higher in the medium supplemented with 5 mg/l copper sulphate and 5-10 mg/l cobalt chloride together (P < 0.05). In regeneration, the highest number of normal plants with the least number of albino plants could be obtained in the media containing 5 mg/l copper sulphate in combination with 5 mg/l cobalt chloride. The results in this study indicate that the in vitro performance in Sri Lankan traditional indica rice varieties can be improved by using the media containing both copper sulphate and cobalt chloride. Key words: Rice; copper sulphate; cobalt chloride; Indica; Japonica DOI: 10.4038/jas.v4i3.1652 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2009, vol. 4, no. 3 pp.132-141