bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of dynamic ice formation on hydraulic heterogeneity in steep streams
Authors: Stickler Morten , Alfredsen Knut T. , Linnansaari Tommi , Fjeldstad Hans‐Petter
Published: December 2009

During winter, different types of ice formation are commonly observed in northern boreal stream systems. Although largely overlooked today, river ice has profound effects on in‐stream hydraulics and therefore ice processes should be considered in freshwater stream management and assessment. In particular, limited knowledge exists about the impacts of dynamic ice formation on stream environments. Results presented from the changes of in‐stream heterogeneity in three steep stream environments caused by dynamic ice formation demonstrate that the formation of anchor ice and anchor ice dams may induce significant backwater effects by increasing wetted areas (maximum 43%) and water depths (maximum 241%) and reducing water velocities (maximum 70%); independent of minimal changes in discharge. Consequently, stream environments are transformed from fast‐flow to slow‐flow areas, even on a short temporal scale (<12 h). Furthermore, the anchor ice build‐up initiated static (surface) ice formation due to reduced local water velocities upstream ice dams. Thus, dynamic ice formation plays a key role in the balanced ice regime in steep stream environments and contributes largely to stable static ice cover in these environments. Observations from the present study suggest that the current paradigm emphasizing the role of discharge as the main controller of in‐stream heterogeneity may call for a modification in steep streams that experience seasonal ice formation. This is particularly important if future hydraulic‐/habitat models and assessment tools are to be implemented in freshwater management to realistically characterize steep stream environments in cold climate regions on a seasonal scale. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of single and two‐stage adaptive sampling designs for estimation of density and abundance of freshwater mussels in a large river
Authors: Smith D. R. , Rogala J. T. , Gray B. R. , Zigler S. J. , Newton T. J.
Published: December 2009

Reliable estimates of abundance are needed to assess consequences of proposed habitat restoration and enhancement projects on freshwater mussels in the Upper Mississippi River (UMR). Although there is general guidance on sampling techniques for population assessment of freshwater mussels, the actual performance of sampling designs can depend critically on the population density and spatial distribution at the project site. To evaluate various sampling designs, we simulated sampling of populations, which varied in density and degree of spatial clustering. Because of logistics and costs of large river sampling and spatial clustering of freshwater mussels, we focused on adaptive and non‐adaptive versions of single and two‐stage sampling. The candidate designs performed similarly in terms of precision (CV) and probability of species detection for fixed sample size. Both CV and species detection were determined largely by density, spatial distribution and sample size. However, designs did differ in the rate that occupied quadrats were encountered. Occupied units had a higher probability of selection using adaptive designs than conventional designs. We used two measures of cost: sample size (i.e. number of quadrats) and distance travelled between the quadrats. Adaptive and two‐stage designs tended to reduce distance between sampling units, and thus performed better when distance travelled was considered. Based on the comparisons, we provide general recommendations on the sampling designs for the freshwater mussels in the UMR, and presumably other large rivers. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discourses matter: Chinese ethnic minorities in sustainable development
Authors: Fu Rong , Zuo Ting , Lenihan Eamon
Published: December 2009

Ethnic minorities have always been an integrated part of development reality. Taking Nu people, one of the 56 ethnic minorities in China, for case study, the present article is an attempt to examine the multiple discourses concerning ethnic minority development in the country. Evidence based analysis is conducted to reveal the existence of three major layers of discourses in the arena of ethnic development and to compare in detail the cognitions, orientations, expression mechanisms and encounters between government, intermediary and community discourses. The paper proposes an intervention selection system to enlarge room for manoeuvre at the bottom. It also calls for a development warning system for ethnic minorities in development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Progressive collapse resisting capacity of braced frames
Authors: Kim Jinkoo , Lee Youngho , Choi Hyunhoon
Published: December 2009

In this study, the progressive collapse potential of braced frames was investigated using nonlinear static and dynamic analyses. Eight different bracing types were considered and their performances were compared with those of a special moment‐resisting frame designed with the same design load. According to the pushdown analysis results, most braced frames designed per current design codes satisfied the design guidelines for progressive collapse initiated by loss of a first story interior column; however, most model structures showed brittle failure mode caused by buckling of braces and columns. Among the braced frames considered, the inverted‐V type braced frames showed superior ductile behaviour during progressive collapse. The nonlinear dynamic analysis results showed that all the braced structures remained in stable condition after sudden removal of a column, and their deflections were less than that of the moment‐resisting frame. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Progressive collapse performance of irregular buildings
Authors: Kim Jinkoo , Hong Sumin
Published: December 2009

In this study, the progressive collapse‐resisting capacities of tilted or twisted buildings were evaluated by nonlinear static and dynamic analyses. For analysis models, 30‐storey tilted buildings with braced cores and 30‐storey twisted buildings with reinforced concrete cores were designed, and their performances were compared with those of the regular buildings. According to the analysis results, the progressive collapse potential of the tilted structures varied significantly, depending on the location of the removed column. It was also observed in the tilted structures that the plastic hinges formed not only in the bays from which a column was removed, but also in the nearby bays. Similar results were observed in the analysis of the twisted structures. The progressive collapse potentials of the tilted structure were high when a column was removed from the tilted side. However, the twisted structures considered in this study had progressive collapse potentials not very large compared with those of the corresponding regular structures, mainly because more structural elements were involved in resisting progressive collapse when a structural member was eliminated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Autonomous frequency regulation by controllable loads to increase acceptable wind power generation
Authors: Kondoh Junji
Published: December 2009

Output power fluctuation of high penetration of wind power causes demand and supply imbalance in electric power systems and results in frequency deviation if the fluctuation is not fully compensated by other regulable power plants. In Japan, some electric utilities have started to accept only the wind farms which disconnect and give up generating power during light‐load periods with less adjustable reserve. Otherwise, wind farms are required to employ battery energy storage systems (BESSs) to charge the generated power during the light‐load periods. Instead of these uneconomical solutions, this paper proposes autonomous frequency regulation by controllable loads such as electric water heaters (EWHs). In the paper, the acceptable increase of wind power generation by the proposed load control has been evaluated quantitatively in the power system of the Hokkaido Island in Japan. The result indicates that the acceptable increase of wind power generation goes from 250 to 675 MW by applying the proposed autonomous frequency regulation on all EWHs, and the total cost to implement the autonomous frequency regulation on the EWHs is around 1/26 compared with a solution using BESSs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning and characterization of a glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (NAD+) gene from the halotolerant yeast Pichia farinosa
Authors: Peng Feng , Li Gang , Wang Xiaoxing , Jiang Yan , Yang Yi
Published: December 2009

In this study, a novel glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (NAD+) (EC1.1.1.8) gene (PfGPD) was cloned from halotolerant yeast Pichia farinosa, using degenerate reverse transcription (RT)–PCR and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) methods. The full‐length cDNA of the PfGPD gene is 1403 bp, which has an open reading frame (ORF) encoding 370 amino acids. PfGPD is conserved with other glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase genes and presents a single copy in the P. farinosa genome. Transcriptional analysis revealed that PfGPD gene expression level was high after 2 h induction in a hyperosmotic environment containing 2 M NaCl and returned to normal within 6 h. These results suggest that the PfGPD gene is induced by salt stress. Yeast complementation experiment indicated that PfGPD complements gpd1 mutation in S. cerevisiae. The Accession No. for PfGPD in GenBank is EF601986. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amino acid residues involved in ligand preference of the Snf3 transporter‐like sensor in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Dietvorst Judith , Karhumaa Kaisa , Kielland‐Brandt Morten C. , Brandt Anders
Published: December 2009

Snf3 is a plasma membrane protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae able to sense the presence of glucose. Although the Snf3 protein does not transport sugars, it shares sequence similarity with various glucose transporters from other organisms. We investigated the sugar specificity/preferences of Snf3. The ability of cells to sense sugars in vivo was monitored by following the degradation of the Mth1 protein, an early event in the signal pathway. Our study reveals that Snf3, in addition to glucose, also senses fructose and mannose, as well as the glucose analogues 2‐deoxyglucose, 3‐O‐methylglucoside and 6‐deoxyglucose. The signalling proficiency of a non‐phosphorylatable analogue strongly supports the notion that sensing through Snf3 does not require sugar phosphorylation. Sequence comparisons of Snf3 to glucose transporters indicated amino acid residues possibly involved in sensing of sugars other than glucose. By site‐specific mutagenesis of the structural gene, roles of specific residues in Snf3 could be established. Change of isoleucine‐374 to valine in transmembrane segment 7 of Snf3 partially abolished sensing of fructose and mannose, while mutagenesis causing a change of phenylalanine‐462 to tyrosine in transmembrane segment 10 of Snf3 abolished sensing of fructose. Neither of these amino acid changes affected the ability of Snf3 to sense glucose, nor did they permit Snf3 to sense galactose. These data indicate a similarity between a ligand binding site of the sensor Snf3 and binding sites used for facilitated hexose transport in the GLUT proteins. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and characterization of the type 2C protein phosphatase Ptc4p in the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans
Authors: Zhao Jingwen , Sun Xin , Fang Jiaping , Liu Wei , Feng Chen , Jiang Linghuo
Published: December 2009

Type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2C) are monomeric enzymes and their activities require the presence of magnesium or manganese ions. There are seven PP2C genes, named from PTC1 to PTC7, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In the current study we identified the CaPTC4 gene in Candida albicans and demonstrated that the CaPtc4p protein is a typical PP2C enzyme, which is highly conserved in fungal species. Deletion of CaPTC4 renders Candida cells sensitive to sodium and potassium ions as well as to antifungal azole drugs. In addition, we have shown that CaPtc4p is localized in the mitochondrion, suggesting that CaPtc4p is likely to be involved in the regulation of a mitochondrial function related to ion homeostasis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey of elephant husbandry and foot health in North American zoos
Authors: Lewis Karen D. , Shepherdson David J. , Owens Terrah M. , Keele Mike
Published: December 2009

The foot health of elephants in human care is a longstanding concern. In 2001, the AZA Standards for Elephant Management and Care were published recommending husbandry to improve foot health. This article reports the results of a 2006 survey: basic statistics describing facility, husbandry, and foot health attributes are reported and relationships among variables are investigated. Median area available to elephants exceeded Standard recommendations (755 ft2 per elephant indoor and 10,000 ft2 outdoor). Concrete makes up 69% of indoor area and natural substrates account for 85% of outdzoor area. Elephants in AZA facilities received an average of 45.5 min/day of exercise, and facilities with a structured exercise plan provided significantly more exercise than did facilities without a structured exercise plan (z=−2.522, P=0.012). Enrichment is important to psychological health and may also stimulate activity beneficial to foot health; 95% of institutions had a structured enrichment program. Preventative foot care was nearly universal, and 100% of facilities performed routine nail and pad trimming. However, foot pathology has not been eradicated; 33% of institutions reported at least one pathology in the previous year. This study found a strong inverse relationship between foot pathology and exercise (χ2(3)=24.34, P<0.001). Younger herds were less likely to have a member diagnosed with arthritis (χ2(1)=8.90, P=0.003). Lameness was unrelated to age or pathology, and only the presence of arthritis explained lameness (z=−7.81, P<0.001). African elephants seemed to experience lower rates of foot pathology and arthritis than Asian elephants; however, this was explained by differences in age. Zoo Biol 29:221–236, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of a Visible Simulation Surgery Technique in Preoperation Planning for Intrahepatic Calculi
Authors: Fang Chi Hua , Xie Ao Wen , Chen Mian Ling , Huang Yan Peng , Lu Chao Min , Li Xiao Feng , Pan Jia Hui , Peng Feng Ping
Published: December 2009

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate a visible simulation surgery technique for choosing the best surgical plan in patients with intrahepatic calculi.

Methods

A medical image processing system was used to process computed tomography (CT) scanning data collected from four cases of intrahepatic calculi. Models of liver and bile ducts in standard template library format were processed by a free‐form modeling system and reconstructed three‐dimensionally. Accurate digital information about the bile duct system, lesions, calculi distribution, and adjacent organs from all directions, multiple angles, and multi‐strata were used to choose the best surgical plan. Then, visible simulation surgery was performed with simulation operation software.

Results

Three‐dimensionally reconstructed models provide clarity with strong relief perception and a user‐friendly interface. Visible simulation surgery performed based on three‐dimensionally reconstructed models led to optimal operation planning.

Conclusions

Visible simulation surgery is more objective and complete than routine preoperative examinations to choose the best operation plan for intrahepatic calculi.
Effect of Liver Transplantation on Spleen Size, Collateral Veins, and Platelet Counts
Authors: Chikamori Fumio , Nishida Seigo , Selvaggi Gennaro , Tryphonopoulos Panagiotis , Moon Jang I. , Levi David M. , Kato Tomoaki , Island Eddie R. , Maki Akira , Tekin Akin , Tzakis Andreas G.
Published: December 2009

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of liver transplantation on the spleen size, spontaneous splenorenal shunt (SRS) function, and platelet counts in patients with hypersplenism.

Methods

Between December 2001 and February 2007, 462 adult patients underwent orthotopic liver transplantations (OLTX) at our institution. Of these patients, CT or MRI information was reviewed retrospectively in 55 patients. Volume measurements of the spleen and liver, spleen/liver volume ratio (S/L ratio), presence and size of SRS, and platelet counts were evaluated before and after OLTX.

Results

Mean spleen volume decreased from 827 ± 463 ml to 662 ± 376 ml after OLTX (p < 0.01). Five (11%) patients returned to normal‐range spleen size after OLTX. SRS was observed in 19 patients before OLTX (35%). The diameter of SRS also significantly decreased from 1.0 ± 0.5 cm before OLTX to 0.7 ± 0.5 cm after OLTX (p < 0.05). SRS disappeared in 16% of patients (3/19). S/L ratio significantly decreased from 0.65 ± 0.33 to 0.38 ± 0.17 (p < 0.01) after OLTX. Platelet counts significantly increased after OLTX (p < 0.01). Improvement of the platelet count in the group with postoperative S/L ratio >0.35 was not as good as that in the group with S/L ratio <0.35 (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Spleen size and SRS size became significantly smaller after OLTX. However, patients with postoperative S/L ratio >0.35 tend to have lower platelet counts after OLTX.
Left Heart Pump‐Assisted Myocardial Revascularization Favorably Affects Neutrophil Apoptosis
Authors: Stassano Paolo , Di Tommaso Luigi , Monaco Mario , Mastrogiovanni Generoso , Musumeci Antonino , Contaldo Antonio , Pepino Paolo
Published: December 2009

Objectives

Granulocyte apoptosis is a key control process in the clearance of neutrophils from inflammatory sites, and its rate is modulated by a number of inflammatory mediators. In this study, we investigated whether the use of left ventricular‐assisted technique (LVA) in beating heart myocardial revascularization would exert less impact on neutrophil apoptosis compared with conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methods

Forty consecutive patients who underwent myocardial revascularization were randomly assigned to LVA (group A, 21 patients) or CPB (group B, 19 patients). Blood samples for detection of interleukin‐6, interleukin‐8, and tumor necrosis factor‐α were measured at baseline and at various time points postoperatively. Neutrophil apoptosis was detected by light microscopy as well as by the annexin‐V assays together with the activity of caspase 3 on postoperative samples.

Results

Preoperative clinical and demographic data did not differ between the two groups. The two groups also were similar with respect to mortality, number of grafts performed, duration of extracorporeal circulation, and need for inotropes. However postoperatively, spontaneous apoptosis was significantly delayed in neutrophils from CPB patients compared with LVA patients. Neutrophils were activated, as indicated by increased surface expression of CD11b. Caspase 3 activity was found to be significantly reduced in neutrophils from CPB patients after 18 and 24 hours of culture.

Conclusions

Patients who underwent beating heart myocardial revascularization with LVA show a better preserved neutrophil apoptosis than patients treated with the CPB.
Poor Late Survival After Surgical Treatment of Pleural Empyema
Authors: Mikkola Reija , Kelahaara Janna , Heikkinen Jouni , Lahtinen Jarmo , Biancari Fausto
Published: December 2009

Background

We have evaluated the outcome of patients who underwent surgical treatment of parapneumonic pleural empyema.

Methods

This study included 143 consecutive patients older than 18 years who were operated on for parapneumonic pleural empyema.

Results

The overall survival at 30 days, 3 months, 5 years, and 10 years was 97.2, 92.3, 80.6, and 61.9%, respectively. Serum albumin (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.65‐0.94), cerebrovascular disease (OR = 30.49, 95% CI = 1.35‐689.05), pulmonary embolism (OR = 984.63, 95% CI = 7.81‐124206.8), and Thoracoscore (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.10‐2.35) were independent predictors of 3‐month overall survival. Age (RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.03‐1.14), serum albumin (RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.82‐0.98), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (RR = 5.14, 95% CI = 1.3319.84), and cerebrovascular disease (RR = 6.76, 95% CI = 1.33‐34.34) were independent predictors of pneumonia/pleural empyema‐related death. Twenty‐two patients required 33 reinterventions after the primary procedure: 19 patients after primary thoracoscopy and 3 patients after primary thoracotomy. Reintervention did not have any significant impact on 30‐day mortality (4.5% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.49), but it affected 3‐month mortality (26.1% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.0001). Reoperation was an independent predictor of late overall survival (at 10 years: 35.5% vs. 67.4%, RR = 2.95, 95% CI = 1.33‐6.57) and freedom from pneumonia/pleural empyema‐related death (at 10 years: 73.9% vs. 91.3%, RR = 4.40, 95% CI = 1.24‐15.66).

Conclusions

Surgical treatment of pleural empyema can be associated with good immediate results, but longer follow‐up showed that pneumonia/pleural empyema‐related mortality and all‐cause mortality are rather poor.
Émergence, migrations et routinisation du pourcentage dans les sciences du politique (XVIIe-XIXe siècles)
Authors: Beaud Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2009

Cet article explore les voies par lesquelles le pourcentage s'est imposé dans les sciences du politique. D’abord utilisé dans le domaine financier, le pourcentage est incorporé, en 1662, par Graunt dans le champ des études de mortalité; au début du XIXe siècle, il migre vers les études de croissance de la population, puis il gagne d’autres territoires pour devenir un outil d’application générale. Chaque migration s’inscrit dans le cadre de l’émergence d’une nouvelle problématique:« naissance de la mortalité » dans un cas; « naissance de la population » dans l’autre. Le recours aux pourcentages apparaît ainsi comme un des éléments de la fondation de l’objectivisme statistique.
Pour une épistémologie de la controverse historiographique
Authors: Hoock Jochen , Kaiser Wolfgang
Published: December 2009

Les grandes controverses historiographiques se sont généralement déroulées sur plusieurs fronts. L’article essaie de replacer les débats actuels dans le contexte et l’horizon de différentes expériences de recherche afin de dégager leur apport théorique et empirique. En envisageant surtout les rapports controversés entre histoire sociale et anthropologie historique, il cherche à dégager les récurrences qui le lient à d’autres débats dont les moments forts autour de 1800 et de 1900 reflètent des crises aux connotations politiques mais aussi aux conséquences épistémologiques évidentes.
Jeux d'échelles. Une histoire internationale
Authors: Anheim Étienne , Castelli Gattinara Enrico
Published: December 2009

Le livre Jeux d’échelles. La microanalyse à l’expérience, paru en 1996 sous la direction de Jacques Revel, a été traduit en Italie en 2006 par les éditions de la Viella sous le titre Giochi di Scala. La microstoria alla prova dell ‘esperienza. Cette occasion a semblé propice à un retour historiographique et épistémologique sur l’expérience microhistorique entre la France et l’Italie. Il s’agit d’entrecroiser les réflexions d’un historien français et d’un philosophe italien, pour chercher à mettre en évidence, à distance, les présupposés théoriques de la microhistoire, et à mesurer les déplacements opérés.
The Benefits of Computed Tomographic Colonography in Reducing a Long Colonoscopy Waiting List
Authors: Behrens Carola , Stevenson Giles , Eddy Richard , Pearson David , Hayashi Allen , Audet Louise , Mathieson John
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The Radiology Department, Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria, BC, with the support of gastroenterologists and surgeons, was awarded a BC Innovation fund to run a pilot project of computed tomographic colonography to reduce an unacceptably long 2-year colonoscopy waiting list. Funds were approved in April 2007 for a 1-year project, which was completed on March 31, 2008.

Methods

This article describes the challenges of delivering a high-volume computed tomographic colonography program at a busy community hospital, with discussion of the results for the 2,005 patients who were examined.

Results

Colonoscopy was avoided in 1,462 patients whose computed tomographic studies showed no significant lesions. In the remainder of patients, only lesions larger than 5 mm were reported, with a total of 508 lesions identified in 433 patients. There were 57 cancers of which 52 were reported as either definite or possible cancers, whereas 5 were not seen on initial scans. Some of the patients with cancer had been on the colonoscopy waiting list for 2 years. In addition, there were 461 patients with significant extracolonic findings, including 84 who required urgent or semi-urgent further management for previously unsuspected conditions, such as pneumonia, aneurysms larger than 5 cm, and a range of solid renal, hepatic, and pancreatic masses. There were no procedural complications from the computed tomographic colon studies.

Conclusions

We have shown that it is feasible to run a high volume CTC service in a general hospital given hospital support and funding. The benefits in this group of over 2000 patients included avoidance of colonoscopy in over 70% of patients, detection of significant polyps or cancer in approximately 20% of patients, and identification of clinically important conditions in 7%–18% depending on the definition used. The estimated costs including capital, operating, and professional fees were in the range of $400.
Magnetic Resonance Cisternographic Evaluation of Glossopharyngeal, Vagus, and Accessory Nerves
Authors: Hatipoglu Hatice Gul , Durakoglugil Tugba , Sakman Bulent , Yuksel Enis
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The individual visualization of the glossopharyngeal, vagus, and accessory nerves has been a troublesome issue. After the recent developments in the microsurgical field, the detailed knowledge of the relationship of these nerves and the tumour has gained importance. The purpose of this study is to compare the visibility of each of these nerves.

Methods

Thirty patients (M/F: 14/16; mean age 52.46 years) with complaints of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss were examined with routine temporal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study. The imaging protocol consisted of 3-dimensional fast imaging with steady state acquisition in axial and sagittal oblique planes in addition to routine sequences. These images were transferred to a workstation and reformatted. Visibility of the nerves was evaluated by consensus of 2 radiologists who used an evaluation scale of 2 (excellently visible), 1 (partially visible), to 0 (not visible).

Results

In 26 patients, both sides were scanned; in 4 patients, only one side was scanned. A total of 168 nerves were investigated. The rates for visualization for each nerve were as follows: glossopharyngeal nerve, 100% and 100%; vagus nerve, 67.9% and 100%; and accessory nerve, 10.8% and 83.85% on axial and sagittal oblique 3-dimensional fast imaging with steady state acquisition, respectively.

Conclusions

Glossopharyngeal, vagus, and accessory nerve assessment improved when images were obtained in the sagittal oblique plane to the jugular foramen.
Use of Chinese herbal medicine among menopausal women in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Lih‐Chi , Wang Bi‐Ru , Chen I‐Chin , Shao Chun‐Hui
Published: December 2009

Objective

To assess the patterns of use of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) used by women in Taiwan to treat menopausal symptoms.

Methods

A retrospective review of the records of women who received CHM therapies for menopausal symptoms at the Traditional Medicine Center, Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, between January 2003 and December 2006. The average number of therapies per prescription, dosage, and duration of the prescription were recorded. The most commonly prescribed herbs and formulae were also recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

The records of 3432 women who were administered a total of 19370 CHMs to treat symptoms of the menopause were reviewed. The average number of drugs per prescription was 5.64. Most of the prescriptions (97.1%) were prescribed to be taken 3 times a day. The most commonly prescribed Chinese herb was Leonurus heterophyllus. Jia‐Wey‐Shiau‐Yau‐San was the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal formula.

Conclusion

CHM is commonly used in Taiwan for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. The efficacy and safety of CHM drugs used for the management of menopausal symptoms require further study.
Determination of biotypes ofDactylopius tomentosus(Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) and insights into the taxonomic relationships of their hosts,Cylindropuntiaspp.
Authors: Mathenge C.W. , Holford P. , Hoffmann J.H. , Zimmermann H.G. , Spooner-Hart R. , Beattie G.A.C.
Published: December 2009

Host specialization to form biotypes is common among phytophagous insects, and it has been hypothesised that biotypes ofDactylopius tomentosusL. (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) occur.D.tomentosusis an important biological control agent forCylindropuntiacacti when they occur as weeds. Additionally, there is uncertainty surrounding the taxonomic status of some species ofCylindropuntia. This study aimed to confirm the existence ofD. tomentosusbiotypes and to assess whether host specialization can help to resolve this systematic uncertainty. For this study, the host specificity and performance of ten provenances ofD. tomentosuscollected fromC. cholla,C. fulgidavar.fulgida,C. imbricata,C. f. var.mamillata,C. roseaandC. tunicataand reared onC. cholla,C. fulgidavar.fulgida,C. imbricataandC. roseawere investigated. Five life-history parameters were measured including: crawler development time and survival, female development time, and the weight and number of eggs produced by females. Results revealed significant variation in host specificity with provenances either thriving, surviving or dying on the different hosts, thus demonstrating the existence of biotypes. Also, host specificity was related to host species and not to the geographic locality from which either the host or provenance was sourced. These findings suggest that the characteristics ofCylindropuntiaspecies may differ sufficiently, there by presenting different selection pressures that induce and sustain distinct biotypes ofD. tomentosus. The observed host use patterns of the biotypes separated the plant species into two groups that accorded with known phylogenetic relationships amongCylindropuntiaspecies, suggesting that biotypes can be used to elucidate their taxonomic relatedness. Besides advancing our knowledge of the ecology and evolution ofD. tomentosus, these novel findings have important implications for the biological control ofCylindropuntiaspecies.
Aggregation in insect communities colonizing cattle-dung
Authors: Wall R. , Lee C.M.
Published: December 2009

Ruminant dung is a highly ephemeral, patchily distributed resource, which is used by a diverse community of invertebrate species. In such environments, high levels of insect aggregation may be important in facilitating stability and coexistence across patchily distributed populations. The aim of the present work was to quantify the aggregation of the insects colonising cow-dung in cattle pasture in southwest England and to test the hypothesis that the dung-pat community assemblage observed was the result of stochastic colonization. This was examined using batches of ten standardised, 1.5 kg, artificial cow pats placed out in cattle pastures in each of 24 weeks between May and October in 2001. Pats were left exposed in the field for seven days before being brought back to the laboratory, where any insect colonizers were collected and identified. Individual pats contained, on average, only half the number of insect taxa present in an entire batch put out at any one time. All larval coleopteran taxa, 20 of the 22 adult coleopteran taxa and 22 of the 23 dipteran taxa, showed significant aggregation, with the abundance of most taxa within pats approximating a negative binomial distribution. A simulation analysis was used to show that the observed relative frequency of taxa within pats did not differ from that expected by chance if colonisation is a random binomial event in which each species colonises a pat independently of all other species. Aggregated populations, of even highly abundant insects, may be more susceptible to the deleterious effects of insecticidal contaminants in dung than if they were evenly distributed, if by chance they colonize a pat containing insecticidal residues from a recently treated animal.
Is grid turbulence Saffman turbulence?
Authors: KROGSTAD P.-Å. , DAVIDSON P. A.
Published: December 2009

There has been a longstanding debate as to whether the large scales in grid turbulence should be classified as of the Batchelor or Saffman type. In the former, the integral scales, u and ℓ, satisfy u2ℓ5 ≈ constant, while in Saffman turbulence we have u2ℓ3 = constant. For strictly homogeneous turbulence the energy decay rates in these two types of turbulence differ, with u2 ~ t−10/7 in Batchelor turbulence and u2 ~ t−6/5 in Saffman turbulence. We present high-resolution measurements of grid turbulence taken in a large wind tunnel. The particularly large test section allows us to measure energy decay exponents with high accuracy. We find that the turbulence behind the grid is almost certainly of the Saffman type, with u2ℓ3 = constant. The measured energy decay exponent, however, is found to lie slightly below the theoretical prediction of u2 ~ t−1.2. Rather we find u2 ~ t−n, with n = 1.13±0.02. This discrepancy is shown to arise from a weak temporal decay of the dimensionless energy dissipation coefficient, εℓ/u3, which is normally taken to be constant in strictly homogeneous turbulence, but which varies very slowly in grid turbulence.
Turbulent drag reduction with polymer additive in rough pipes
Authors: YANG SHU-QING , DOU G.
Published: December 2009

Friction factor of drag-reducing flow with presence of polymers in a rough pipe has been investigated based on the eddy diffusivity model, which shows that the ratio of effective viscosity caused by polymers to kinematic viscosity of fluid should be proportional to the Reynolds number, i.e.u∗R/ν and the proportionality factor depends on polymer's type and concentration. A formula of flow resistance covering all regions from laminar, transitional and fully turbulent flows has been derived, and it is valid in hydraulically smooth, transitional and fully rough regimes. This new formula has been tested against Nikuradse and Virk's experimental data in both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid flows. The agreement between the measured and predicted friction factors is satisfactory, indicating that the addition of polymer into Newtonian fluid flow leads to the non-zero effective viscosity and it also thickens the viscous sublayer, subsequently the drag is reduced. The investigation shows that the effect of polymer also changes the velocity at the top of roughness elements. Both experimental data and theoretical predictions indicate that, if same polymer solution is used, the drag reduction (DR) in roughened pipes becomes smaller relative to smooth pipe flows at the same Reynolds number.
Measurement of cytoplasmic streaming in single plant cells by magnetic resonance velocimetry
Authors: VAN DE MEENT JAN-WILLEM , SEDERMAN ANDY J. , GLADDEN LYNN F. , GOLDSTEIN RAYMOND E.
Published: December 2009

In the giant cylindrical cells found in Characean algae, multitudes of the molecular motor myosin transport the cytoplasm along opposing spiralling bands covering the inside of the cell wall, generating a helical shear flow in the large central vacuole. It has been suggested that such flows enhance mixing within the vacuole (van de Meent, Tuval & Goldstein,Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 101, 2008, paper no. 178102) and thereby play a role in regulating metabolism. For this to occur the membrane that encloses the vacuole, namely the tonoplast, must transmit efficiently the hydrodynamic shear generated in the cytoplasm. Existing measurements of streaming flows are of insufficient spatial resolution and extent to provide tests of fluid mechanical theories of such flows and information on the shear transmission. Here, using magnetic resonance velocimetry (MRV), we present the first measurements of cytoplasmic streaming velocities in single living cells. The spatial variation of the longitudinal velocity field in cross-sections of internodal cells ofChara corallinais obtained with spatial resolution of 16 μm and is shown to be in quantitative agreement with a recent theoretical analysis (Goldstein, Tuval & van de Meent,Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, vol. 105, 2008, p. 3663) of rotational cytoplasmic streaming driven by bidirectional helical forcing in the cytoplasm, with direct shear transmission by the tonoplast. These results highlight the open problem of understanding tonoplast motion induced by streaming. Moreover, this study suggests the suitability of MRV in the characterization of streaming flows in a variety of eukaryotic systems and for microfluidic phenomena in general.
Ectopic cervical thymus: case report and review of pathogenesis and management
Authors: Ahsan F , Allison R , White J
Published: December 2009

Objective:

Ectopic cervical thymus is a rare anomaly, and 50 per cent of cases occur in children. The aim of this report was to remind clinicians of this rare condition, which is part of the differential diagnosis of a paediatric neck lump.

Method:

Case report together with literature review of the pathogenesis and management of ectopic cervical thymus.

Results:

The ectopic cervical thymus is a rare cause of a benign neck mass, and is thus usually misdiagnosed as lymphadenopathy or neoplasia. We discuss its embryology, aetiology, presentation, histopathology, radiology and management, with reference to the reported case.

Conclusion:

Ectopic cervical thymus should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of a paediatric neck lump. The diagnosis can often be confirmed by cytology and radiology prior to surgical excision.
Congenital cholesteatoma of mastoid region manifesting as acute mastoiditis: case report and literature review
Authors: Hidaka H , Ishida E , Kaku K , Nishikawa H , Kobayashi T
Published: December 2009

Objectives:

We report an extremely rare case of congenital cholesteatoma of the mastoid region, presenting as acute mastoiditis. We also review the 16 previously reported cases of congenital cholesteatoma of the mastoid region.

Case report:

A 65-year-old man presented with left-sided, post-auricular swelling and pain. Acute mastoiditis was diagnosed, with computed tomography demonstrating destruction of the bony plates of the posterior cranial fossa and sigmoid sinus. Initial surgery revealed a cholesteatoma in the mastoid, with no extension into the aditus ad antrum or attic. These findings were confirmed by pathological and immunohistochemical analysis of the surgical specimen, the latter using involucrin. The cholesteatoma matrix was completely removed in a second operation.

Conclusions:

Including this case, only four of the 17 reported cases of congenital cholesteatoma of the mastoid region showed post-auricular pain or swelling, indicating acute mastoiditis. Clinicians should bear in mind that congenital cholesteatoma may be present in patients presenting with mastoiditis, particularly adults.
Stridor in Parkinson's disease: a case of ‘dry drowning’?
Authors: Gan E C , Lau D P , Cheah K L
Published: December 2009

Objectives:

(1) To present a rare case of stridor secondary to prolonged laryngospasm in a patient with Parkinson's disease, and (2) to review the literature on stridor in Parkinson's disease.

Methods:

We report a 73-year-old Parkinson's disease patient who developed acute stridor due to prolonged laryngospasm triggered by overspill of excessive secretions. The literature was reviewed, following a Medline search using the keywords ‘Parkinson's disease’ and ‘stridor’ or ‘airway obstruction’ or ‘laryngospasm’ or ‘laryngeal dystonia’ or ‘bilateral vocal cord palsy’.

Result:

Only 12 previously reported cases of stridor in Parkinson's disease patients were identified. Causes included bilateral vocal fold palsy (eight cases), laryngospasm (five), and dystonia of the jaw and neck muscles (two). The mechanism of laryngospasm in our patient was similar to ‘dry drowning’, and has not previously been described.

Conclusion:

Laryngospasm can be triggered in Parkinson's disease by excessive secretions entering the larynx. The mechanism is similar to ‘dry drowning’. Treatment focuses on reducing secretions. The use of botulinum toxin to reduce spasm is inappropriate in this situation. This case emphasises the importance of recognising different causes of stridor in Parkinson's disease patients, as this affects management.
Endoscopic, endonasal decompression of spinal stenosis with myelopathy secondary to cranio-vertebral tuberculosis: two cases
Authors: Puraviappan P , Tang I P , Yong D J , Prepageran N , Carrau R L , Kassam A B
Published: December 2009

Background:

Tuberculosis can cause extensive osseo-ligamentous destruction at the cranio-vertebral junction, leading to atlanto-axial instability and compression of vital cervico-medullary centres. This may manifest as quadriparesis, bulbar dysfunction and respiratory insufficiency.

Aim:

We report two patients presenting with spinal stenosis and cord compression secondary to cranio-vertebral tuberculosis, who were successfully decompressed via an endoscopic, endonasal approach.

Study design:

Two case reports.

Methods and results:

Both patients were successfully decompressed via an endoscopic, endonasal approach which provided access to the cranio-vertebral junction and upper cervical spine.

Conclusion:

An endoscopic, endonasal approach is feasible for the surgical management of cranio-vertebral junction stenosis; such an approach minimises surgical trauma to critical structures, reducing post-operative morbidity and the duration of hospital stay.
Does antrochoanal polyp present with epistaxis?
Authors: Sayed R H , Abu-Dief E E
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To compare the gross and microscopic appearance of antrochoanal polyps associated with recurrent epistaxis, with those with a more typical presentation.

Design:

Prospective, controlled study.

Methods:

All patients underwent clinical and endoscopic examination, computed tomography scanning, and examination under anaesthesia, in order to detect the gross diagnostic criteria for antrochoanal polyp. Histological findings on light microscopy were compared for polyps presenting with epistaxis versus those without. The number of predominant inflammatory cells in the corium was determined in both groups and statistically compared using the Studentt-test.

Results:

Recurrent epistaxis was a presenting symptom in 10/84 (11.9 per cent) patients with gross diagnostic criteria for antrochoanal polyp. Grossly, these patients' polyps had a reddish, vascular surface in parts. Histologically, these polyps showed a highly vascular stroma with multiple dilated blood vessels, the typical appearance of an angiomatous antrochoanal polyp. Thrombi at different stages of development were detected, with no infarcts. The remaining cases (88.1 per cent) had no history of epistaxis; histologically, these patients' polyps showed an oedematous connective tissue core with few inflammatory cells. Plasma cells were predominant in the angiomatous polyps, being significantly more prevalent than in the ordinary antrochoanal polyps (p < 0.00).

Conclusions:

It would appear that only angiomatous antrochoanal polyps present with epistaxis. Detection of the characteristic gross appearance of these polyps may help avoid unwanted surgery. Histopathological analysis confirms the diagnosis. A significantly increased number of plasma cells may be the underlying cause of the histological changes seen in angiomatous antrochoanal polyps.
Inferior vestibular neuritis: a novel subtype of vestibular neuritis
Authors: Zhang D , Fan Z , Han Y , Yu G , Wang H
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To report eight cases of inferior vestibular neuritis, in order to raise awareness of this new subtype of vestibular neuritis.

Materials and methods:

We retrospectively analysed 216 patients (104 males and 112 females; age range 10–64 years; mean age 38.4 years) with full clinical documentation who had attended our hospital's vertigo clinic between May 2007 and December 2008. All patients underwent systematic investigation, including hearing tests, radiology, caloric testing and vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing.

Results:

Of 216 patients with vestibular neuritis, eight cases were diagnosed as inferior vestibular neuritis, based on comprehensive analysis of test data. The clinical features of these eight patients were consistent with the characteristics of vestibular neuritis. The results of pure tone audiometry and caloric testing were normal, and the possibility of central lesions was excluded by cerebral computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging on admission. Six cases had unilateral loss of vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, whereas two had a unilateral lower amplitude of vestibular evoked myogenic potentials.

Conclusions:

Inferior vestibular neuritis is a novel subtype of vestibular neuritis, which involves the inferior vestibular nerve alone. Vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing is a useful aid to the diagnosis of inferior vestibular neuritis.
Vestibular schwannoma: role of conservative management
Authors: Suryanarayanan R , Ramsden R T , Saeed S R , Aggarwal R , King A T , Rutherford S A , Evans D G , Gillespie J E
Published: December 2009

Objective:

To assess the outcome of conservative management of vestibular schwannoma.

Study design:

Observational study.

Setting:

Tertiary referral centre.

Patients:

Four hundred and thirty-six patients with vestibular schwannoma (490 tumours), including 327 sporadic tumours and 163 tumours in 109 patients with neurofibromatosis type two.

Main outcome measures:

The relationship of tumour growth to tumour size at presentation, and to certain demographic features.

Results:

The initial tumour size was significantly larger in the neurofibromatosis type two group (11 mm) than in the sporadic vestibular schwannoma group (5.1 mm). In both groups, 68 per cent of tumours did not grow during follow up (mean 3.6 years; range one to 14 years). The mean growth rate was 1.1 mm/year (range 0–15 mm/year) for sporadic tumours and 1.7 mm/year (range 0–18 mm/year) for neurofibromatosis type two tumours. The tumour growth rate correlated positively with tumour size in the sporadic tumour group, and correlated negatively with age in the neurofibromatosis type two group.

Conclusion:

Two-thirds of vestibular schwannomas did not grow. Radiological surveillance is an acceptable approach in carefully selected patients. Once a sporadic vestibular schwannoma reaches 2 cm in intracranial diameter, it is likely to continue growing. We do not recommend conservative management for sporadic tumours with an intracranial diameter of 1.5 cm or more. Vestibular schwannoma management is more complex in patients with neurofibromatosis type two.