bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exotic and native plants play equally important roles in supporting and structuring plant-hummingbird networks within urban green spaces
Authors: Sánchez Sánchez Monserrat , Lara Carlos
Published: February 2024

Background

Urban gardens, despite their transformed nature, serve as invaluable microcosms for a quantitative examination of floral resource provision to urban pollinators, considering the plant’s origin. Thus, knowledge has increased, emphasizing the importance of these green areas for hosting and conserving pollinator communities. However, there is a significant knowledge gap concerning the changing availability of these native and exotic floral resources over time and their impact on structuring interaction networks with specific pollinators.

Methods

Over a year-long period, monthly surveys were conducted to record both native and exotic plant species visited by hummingbirds in an urban garden at Tlaxcala, Mexico. Flower visits were recorded, and the total flowers on each plant visited were tallied. Additionally, all observed hummingbirds were recorded during the transect walks, regardless of plant visits, to determine hummingbird abundance. The interactions were summarized using matrices, and network descriptors like connectance, specializacion, nestedness, and modularity were computed. Plant and hummingbird species in the core and periphery of the network were also identified. Lastly, simulations were performed to assess the network’s resilience to the extinction of highly connected native and exotic plant species, including those previously situated in the network’s core.

Results

We recorded 4,674 interactions between 28 plant species, and eight hummingbird species. The majority of plants showed an ornithophilic syndrome, with 20 species considered exotic. Despite asynchronous flowering, there was overlap observed across different plant species throughout the year. Exotic plants like Jacaranda mimosifolia and Nicotiana glauca produced more flowers annually than native species. The abundance of hummingbirds varied throughout the study, with Saucerottia berillyna being the most abundant species. The plant-hummingbird network displayed high connectance, indicating generalization in their interaction. Significant nestedness was observed, mainly influenced by exotic plant species. The core of the network was enriched with exotic plants, while Basilinna leucotis and Cynanthus latirostris played central roles among hummingbirds. Network resilience to species extinction remained generally high.

Conclusions

Our findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics and structure of plant-hummingbird interactions in urban gardens, emphasizing the influence of exotic plant species and the network’s resilience to perturbations. Understanding and managing the impact of exotic plants on such networks is crucial for the conservation and sustainable functioning of urban ecosystems.
Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, Laser Therapy, and Ultrasound in Managing Temporomandibular Disorders: A Randomised Clinical Study
Authors: Yeladandi Mounika , Chavva Sunanda , Padala Swetha Bindu , Khanam Shugufta , Vemula Harika , Moparthi Himapriya
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMDs) are considered multifactorial, and several treatment approaches have been proposed for their effective management. The use of non invasive treatment modalities is recommended, which includes Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS), Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), acupuncture, ultrasound, and manual therapies. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of TENS, LLLT, and ultrasound therapy in patients suffering from TMDs. Materials and Methods: This prospective, randomised clinical trial was conducted on thirty patients (11 males, 19 females) clinically diagnosed with TMD associated with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) pain, clicking joint sound, pain in the muscles of mastication, and limited mouth opening. Patients were sequentially randomised into three groups to be treated with TENS, laser beam, and ultrasound therapies, respectively. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Score and painfree mouth opening were recorded before, during, and after treatment. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences(SPSS) version 16.0 statistical software. Statistical tests such as the paired sample t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and post-hoc Tukey test were performed. Results: There was a significant reduction in the VAS score in the TENS group (3.15), LLLT group (5.75), and ultrasound group (5.50) post-treatment (p<0.001). In addition, improvements in Mean Mouth Opening (MMO) levels were observed with TENS (7.80 mm), LLLT (9.09 mm), and ultrasound therapy (7.15 mm). These differences were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). The laser and ultrasound groups fared better than the TENS group in the reduction of VAS scores (p<0.05), and there was no significant difference in MMO among the three therapies. Conclusion: Reductions in VAS scores and improvements in mouth opening were noticed in all three groups post-treatment. The laser and ultrasound therapies were more effective in reducing pain compared to TENS therapy. Comparing pretreatment and mid-treatment values, laser beam therapy proved to be more effective in reducing pain scores compared to TENS and ultrasound therapy.
Comparison of Two Clinical Devices for the Measurement of Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions in Normal-Hearing Adults
Authors: Cañete Oscar M. , El-Haj-Ali Mouhamad , Fereczkowski Michal
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) are low-intensity sounds generated by the cochlea and associated with the function of the outer hair cells. Since OAE measurements do not require active participation of a listener, OAEs are considered an objective measure of cochlear function. While distortion-product OAEs (DPOAEs) are commonly used in clinical practice, limited information is available on the performance of various clinical devices. This study compared two commercial clinical devices, Titan and Eclipse from Interacoustics, and collected normative data for DPOAEs in people with normal hearing. The data collection and analysis were focused on signal and noise amplitudes as well as signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs).Subjects and Methods: Sixty-three participants with normal hearing (age 23.2±2.0 years) were included in the study. DPOAEs were measured at 31 frequencies ranging from 500 to 10,000 Hz.Results: DPOAE amplitude differed across frequencies. Additionally, a high number of unreliable responses were observed at the edge frequencies (<828 Hz and >6,072 Hz). There were no significant differences between the two devices in terms of DPOAE amplitudes, but the recorded-noise levels (amplitude) differed significantly. SNRs of the recorded OAEs were frequency dependent (higher frequencies showed larger SNRs), and significant differences in terms of SNR were found between the two devices.Conclusions: Despite the above-mentioned differences, the OAEs recorded with both devices met the pass criteria for the SNR (≥6 dB) consistently across frequencies, and thus the differences do not compromise the test outcomes. The frequency dependence of the OAE amplitudes and the corresponding SNRs may be relevant for clinical practice.
Translabyrinthine Excision of a Transmodiolar Intralabyrinthine Schwannoma Mimicking Meniere’s Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Goyal Sunil , Ravunnikutty Mahesh , Swami Himanshu , Yadav Sneha
Published: February 2024

Intralabyrinthine schwannomas (ILSs) are rare tumors involving the otic capsule. Notably, they are often misdiagnosed because their symptoms mimic those of other, more common inner ear pathologies. Diagnosis requires high-resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which reveals filling defects (using a T2-weighted MRI sequence) or focal enhancement (using a T1-weighted MRI sequence with gadolinium enhancement) in the inner ear. A 52-year-old male patient with intractable vertigo or single-sided deafness should raise suspicion of this clinical entity as a differential diagnosis. Translabyrinthine excision of the tumor along with auditory rehabilitation using a cochlear implant can provide good outcomes with minimal morbidity in carefully selected cases. Here, we present an interesting case of a transmodiolar ILS mimicking Meniere’s disease, wherein surgery using the translabyrinthine approach and an extended cochleostomy yielded favorable outcomes.
Effect of Preservative Methods on Organoleptic Characteristics of Broiler Neck Meat
Authors: Sesan Lawal Wasiu , Olusola Salam Modupe , Owoidoho-okon Gana Esther , Omowumi Alege Rukaya , Oyetayo Oyagbola Elizabeth , Tawakalitu Ahmed , Toyin Abdukadri-Harron Hajarat,
Published: February 2024

The effect of preservative methods on organoleptic characteristics of broiler chicken neck is investigated, forty pieces  of broiler neck meat was purchased from ipata frozen meat shop, ten (10) pieces each of the meat part was fried using electronic deep frier in ground nut oil and another ten (10) was roasted with oven for 30minutes at 1200C  and evaluation was carried out almost immediately after which ten (10) each was again fried and roasted, then keep at room temperature for two (2) weeks and at the end of the two weeks, sensory evaluation was again carried out, after each taste the questionnaire was filled, the nine point edonic scale was used as questionnaire, the panelist were ten (10) each for both boys and girls with their ages ranging from 18-22 years old, the experiment lasted three (3) weeks and it was conducted in Agricultural garden of the Department of Agricultural Technology. The data collected was then analyzed using Randomized combined block design (RCBD) statistic tool and at the end the panelist preferred the roasted meat (P<0.05), this may be as a result of the heat that actually killed the microorganisms that can cause spoilage while the oil that was used in frying may be the cause of spoilage (rancidity)  in fried meat, It was therefore concluded that when meat is well roated it lasted longer that when it is fried because the oil used in frying may be also be the cause of spoilage from rancidity.
Microcontroller Implementation in Precision Planting: A Review
Authors: Beg Asif , Chauhan N. S.
Published: February 2024

Precision farming, also known as precision agriculture, is a crop management method that optimizes agricultural production by utilizing technology and data for precise placement of seed, fertilizer and pesticides. It enhances increase crop yields, reduce waste, and reduce environmental impact by applying the appropriate amount of inputs, such as seed, water, fertilizer, and pesticides for each crop. Farmers can reduce expenses by reducing the usage of expensive inputs while increasing yields and crop quality by employing precision farming techniques. Commercially available planters normally use mechanical metering systems which have many limitations including, skidding of the wheel, non-uniform seed rate, wastage of the seed and higher maintenance cost. It is evident from recent researchers that irregularly in seed placement, which is generally caused due to wheel slippage and seed metering systems powered by electric or hydraulic motor can maintain accurate seed placement and can work at higher speeds compared to traditional planters.
Beyond Economic Growth: Does Natural Gas Consumption and Price Promote Trade in Top Gas Producing African Nations?- An Evidence from Time Series Analysis
Authors: Alwell Nteegah, , Okechukwu Nwatu, Victor
Published: February 2024

The study examined the role of natural gas consumption and price in enhancing trade among top gas producing nations in Africa. To accomplish the study's objective, data on natural gas consumption, natural gas price, and gasoline motor fuel (used as a reference variable) was gathered from the World Bank and the International Energy Agency. These data were then analysed using the panel ARDL methodology to examine the relationship between trade openness and natural gas consumption and price in the six leading gas producing nations in Africa – Nigeria, Angola, Algeria, Egypt, Libya, and Gabon. The findings of our study indicates that a rise in the price of natural gas has a positive impact on the trade and growth levels in the economies of the leading gas-producing nations in Africa. As the price rises, there is a corresponding increase in commerce, particularly in exports. This leads to a growth in real GDP and a greater contribution of the energy sector to the overall economic development. The increase in trade and economic development leads to greater trade openness, with the price of natural gas playing a crucial role in this improvement. The trade facilitation in the chosen African nations that produce natural gas was greatly hindered by the high prices of natural gas (natural gas consumption) and the usage of petrol for vehicle fuel. Based on these findings, the study suggested that: liberalising the oil and gas sector in gas producing nations would be beneficial to their economy. This would encourage competition, stabilise prices, strengthen gas infrastructure, and boost trade and development in gas producing nations in the African sub region.
The Minimum Superior Dominating Energy of Graphs
Authors: Tejaskumar R  , Ismayil A Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Kathiresan and Marimuthu were the pioneers of superior distance in graphs. The same authors put forth the concept of superior domination in 2008. Superior distance is the shortest walk between any two vertices including their respective neighbours. The minimum superior dominating energy  is defined by the sum of the eigenvalues and it is obtained from the minimum superior dominating  matrix . The minimum superior dominating energy for star and crown graphs are computed. Properties of eigenvalues of minimum superior dominating matrix for star, cocktail party, complete and crown graphs are discussed. Results related to upper and lower bounds of minimum superior dominating energy for star, cocktail party, complete and crown graphs are stated and proved.
Estimation of Yield Losses Caused by Insect Pests on Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)
Authors: Muchhadiya D. V. , Patel J. J. , Patel D. R. , Patel R. B.
Published: February 2024

Field experiment was carried out to estimate the yield losses in pigeon pea crop due to insect pests during kharif 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 at College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Bharuch (Gujarat). Results revealed that avoidable yield loss due to insect pests in pigeon pea was recorded up to 38.48% when no plant protection measures are taken. Amongst different insect pests, the maximum damage was recorded due to pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (34.90%) followed by pod sucking bugs, Clavigralla gibbosa (29.75%) and pod fly, Melanogromyza obtusa (23.64%). Pod damage due to spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata and tur plume moth, Exelastis atomosa was recorded up to 14.09% and 5.60%, respectively.
Comparative Evaluations of Abnormal Behaviour, Panting, Lamb Mortality and Fleece Cleanliness in Kenguri Sheep under Intensive and Extensive Rearing Systems, Yadgir District, India
Authors: Kanakaraja M. G.  , Sagar M.  , Niranjan D.  , Nayaka Shivappa , Hemanth P.
Published: February 2024

The important welfare issues of Kenguri sheep faced during group welfare assessment were analyzed during the study.

Total of 20 each intensive and extensive Kenguri sheep farms having the herd size ranging from 35 to 300 and 25 to 1480, respectively were cited for group welfare assessment in Yadgir (i.e., Northern Eastern dry agro-climatic zone) district of Karnataka state, India.

 Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kawadimatti, Yadgir, UAS, Raichur. Here each selected herd raised up in both intensive and extensive rearing systems was assessed for 20 minutes, during the months of January and February of the year 2022.

The group level welfare indicators such as abnormal behaviour (stereotypy), panting, lamb mortality and fleece cleanliness were evaluated as per Animal Welfare Indicators assessment protocol for sheep. The overall first group level welfare assessment was significant in between the intensive and extensive rearing systems.

The comparative welfare study among total of 40 sheep farms revealed that, the stereotypy observed was 4.88 and 1.24%, panting was 1.71 and 3.66%, mild heat stress was 2.18 and 6.49%, lamb mortality was 30.06 and 26.47% in lambs born alive and 0.89 and 2.03%, in lambs born dead. Losses upto weaning was 3.40 and 4.45% and minimum ewes mated was 45.73 and 42.48%. Minimum lambs reared was 30.48 and 26.52%; Fleece cleanliness was very wet that is 2.19 and 3.47%, and filthiness is 0.14 and 1.11% of animals in both intensive and extensive rearing systems, respectively.

This study may boost the quality of animal assessment for getting better value-added products under the frame work of welfare status in farming community in the future.
Macroeconomic Determinants of Domestic Investment in Nigeria: Comparing Theory and Empirics
Authors: Effiong Isaac, Samuel , Moses Akpan, Ofonime
Published: February 2024

This article examined the macroeconomic determinants of domestic investments in Nigeria in the light of mainstream investment theories using annual data from 1982 to 2020. We adopt an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model to examine the long run and short run relationships between the dependent and the explanatory variables. From the reviewed economic theories, we identified interest rate, output, savings, government expenditure, money supply, stock market performance and inflation as macroeconomic determinants of investment which we used as explanatory variables in our model. The findings of this study shows that government expenditure, money supply and inflation were significant determinants of investment in the short run while all the variables except interest rate were significant determinants of investment only in the long run. Interest rate was not significant as a determinant of investment within the period of study. The findings of this study add credence to most of the various economic theories reviewed. It shows that investment in Nigeria can be significantly driven by policies because the identified macroeconomic determinants of investment in Nigeria are variables that the policy authorities can influence through policy decisions. We recommend among other things, improvement in financial intermediation and the involvement of domestic firms in the execution of government projects.
A educação omnilateral na sociologia de Florestan Fernandes
Authors: Dos Santos Gomes Junior Elson
Published: February 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar a proposta omnilateral de educação na sociologia de Florestan Fernandes. A metodologia empregada é de cunho qualitativo-bibliográfico e norteia-se a partir das obras de cunho educacional, utilizando-se do teor crítico extraído pelo sociólogo paulista de fontes marxianas e marxistas. Neste sentido, o percurso explicativo consiste na apresentação de uma perspectiva de formação humana em Florestan, em seguida a correlação entre educação, Estado e sociedade em sua sociologia e, por último, como estes elementos corroboram a necessidade de uma educação omnilateral.
O Banco Mundial e seu projeto educacional para a América Latina e o Caribe: racismo, exploração e alienação
Authors: Gomes da Conceição André
Published: February 2024

O objetivo geral deste texto é analisar o livro “Professores Excelentes: como melhorar a aprendizagem dos estudantes na América Latina e no Caribe”, produzido pelo pessoal que serve ao Banco Mundial. Para isso, como objetivo específico, tornou-se necessário apresentar a teoria do capital humano, a qual orienta as políticas educacionais promovidas pelo banco. O segundo objetivo específico é identificar os argumentos do pessoal do Banco Mundial à luz da teoria do capital humano e do neoliberalismo. Concluiu-se que três dimensões são fundamentais para se compreenderem as ideias contidas no livro analisado: a dimensão econômica; a dimensão colonialista; e a dimensão ideológica.
As pautas feministas ameaçam a unidade classista? Uma análise marxista das desigualdades de gênero no capitalismo com foco na conjuntura brasileira
Authors: Bulhões Larissa
Published: February 2024

O artigo critica o fetiche das leis econômicas que sustenta a tese dos sistemas duais no campo do feminismo marxista, em defesa do avanço da teoria unitária, a qual explicita a inerência das opressões na conformação da ordem social burguesa. Analisa os impactos das desigualdades de gênero na realidade das mulheres trabalhadoras brasileiras, no processo de subjetivação burguês e no papel dos coletivos feministas nas organizações classistas. Na correlação entre as ofensivas antigênero e a ascensão da extrema-direita no Brasil, expõe a centralidade das pautas feministas, LGBTQIA+ e antirracistas na luta anticapitalista.
Gênero e ciências da natureza: o feminismo marxista e a história de Irène Joliot-Curie
Authors: Cabral Lima Larissa , Massi Luciana
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho buscou traçar historicamente a relação entre marxismo e gênero, com foco na questão da mulher na ciência. Para isso buscamos as principais autoras feministas marxistas, obras do marxismo clássico relacionadas à mulher e autoras contemporâneas brasileiras. Por meio delas sistematizamos algumas tendências do feminismo marxista ao explorar os fatores que influenciam a posição da mulher na sociedade. Por fim, a partir de quatro teses que articulam o marxismo à história de mulheres cientistas, analisamos alguns aspectos da história de Irène Joliot-Curie visando conexões entre gênero e marxismo, situando-a como mulher e cientista em seu contexto histórico e social de produção de conhecimento.
É possível ser anticapitalista e lutar por direitos sexuais? Marx e Foucault em uma perspectiva queer
Authors: Van Pelt Eder
Published: February 2024

O artigo desenvolve uma análise sobre o modo como o marxismo entende os processos de sujeição no direito e suas desconfianças em relação às políticas identitárias e de reconhecimento relacionadas com as questões envolvendo orientação sexual e identidade de gênero e sua defesa dos direitos sexuais. Ao mesmo tempo, busca em Foucault a proposta de um modelo escalonado de práticas de liberdade, segundo uma perspectiva queer. Esse escalonamento permite-nos ver as lutas emancipatórias como etapas de um processo mais amplo e complexo. Portanto, não é correto pensar que a crítica marxista sempre entenderá os direitos sexuais como fórmulas adequadas ao aprimoramento do capitalismo, se elas forem pensadas como lutas emancipatórias por dentro do direito e para além do direito. A metodologia adotada é baseada em revisão bibliográfica qualitativa.
Diálogos feministas a partir da Teoria da Reprodução Social: por uma concepção unitária de classe, gênero, raça e sexualidade
Authors: Oliveira Rayane Noronha , Benitez Martins Carla
Published: February 2024

O ensaio pretende realizar um diálogo entre feminismos e marxismo, a partir da Teoria da Reprodução Social. Para tanto, parte-se do materialismo histórico-dialético e das contribuições que o legado marxista oferece às lutas das mulheres, populações negras e LGBTQIAPN+. Aproximando-se das dimensões que envolvem a relação entre classe, gênero, sexualidade e raça, em tempos de manipulação das agendas pelo neoliberalismo, são propostas algumas reflexões que podem contribuir na unidade da luta contra o capital.
Selective Intraoperative Cholangiography and Single‐Stage Management of Common Bile Duct Stone in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Wu Shih‐Chi , Chen Feng‐Chi , Lo Chong‐Jeh
Published: October 2005

Background

There are still debates and controversies in the detection and the management of common bile duct (CBD) stones in the era of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). This prospective study was performed to evaluate a single‐stage management of CBD stone during LC.

Methods

Between May 1998 and January 2000, 249 consecutive patients with gallstone and cholecystitis were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 52.5 ± 12.4 years. Male to female ratio was 106:143. All patients underwent abdominal sonography and the determination of the serum biochemical profile preoperatively. Patients presented with sepsis or with total bilirubin ≥ 6 ng/dL were excluded from the study.

Results

244 (98%) patients underwent LC and 5 (2%) patients were converted to open cholecystectomy. Intraoperative cholangiogram (IOC) was only performed in patients who fulfilled our predetermined criteria. Among 90 patients who had IOC, only 23 patients had CBD stones that were removed either by transcystic duct stone extraction (61%) or CBD exploration (39%). The additional procedures to remove CBD stone did not prolong the hospitalization. There were four wound infections and one cystic stump leakage. One patient developed CBD stone during the follow‐up period up to 37 months.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that routine use of IOC during LC is not necessary. In addition, single‐stage approach for the management of CBD stone during LC is feasible and should be considered by laparoscopic surgeons.
Mortality in Severely Injured Elderly Trauma Patients—When Does Age Become a Risk Factor?
Authors: Kuhne Christian A. , Ruchholtz Steffen , Kaiser Gernot M. , Nast‐Kolb Dieter
Published: October 2005

Age is a well‐known risk factor in trauma patients. The aim of the present study was to define the age‐dependent cut‐off for increasing mortality in multiple injured patients. Pre‐existing medical conditions in older age and impaired age‐dependent physiologic reserve contributing to a worse outcome in multiple injured elderly patients are discussed as reasons for increased mortality. A retrospective clinical study of a statewide trauma data set from 1993 through 2000 included 5375 patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16 who were stratified by age. The ISS and Abbreviated Injury Score (AIS) quantified the injury severity. Outcome measures were mortality, shock, multiple organ failure, and severe head injury. Mortality in this series increased beginning at age 56 years, and that increase was independent of the ISS. The mortality rate increased from 7.3% (patients 46–55 years of age) to 13.0% (patients ages 56–65 years) in patients with ISS 16–24; from 23.8% to 32.1% in those with ISS 25–50; and from 62.2% to 82.1% in those with ISS 51–75 (P ≤ 0.05). Severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) was the most frequent cause of death, with a significant peak in patients older than 75 years. The incidence of lethal multiple organ failure increased significantly beginning at age 56 years (P ≤ 0.05), but it showed no further increase in patients aged 76 years or older. In contrast, the incidence of lethal shock showed a significant increase from age 76 years (P ≤ 0.05), but not at age 56 years. However, from age 56 years, mortality increased significantly in patients who sustained multiple trauma—an increase that was independent of trauma severity.
Impact of Emergency Surgery in the Outcome of Rectal and Left Colon Carcinoma
Authors: Coco Claudio , Verbo Alessandro , Manno Alberto , Mattana Claudio , Covino Marcello , Pedretti Giorgio , Petito Luigi , Rizzo Gianluca , Picciocchi Aurelio
Published: October 2005

The negative results in terms of morbidity, mortality and survival among emergency treated patients affected by colorectal cancer are well known. The specific contribution of emergency surgery to adverse outcome is not clear because of the presence in all series of other possible determinants of a poor prognosis. We used a case‐control study design to compare a group of 50 patients operated on for cancer of the rectum and left colon presented as emergencies in our department during the last 14 years, and an equal number of patients who underwent elective procedures during the same period. All records of these patients were reviewed and matched for age, stage, tumor location, and medical comorbidities (coronaropathy, diabetes mellitus, cerebral vascular deficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Outcome measures included length of hospital stay, morbidity, mortality, and actuarial 5‐year survival. Univariate and multivariate analysis of factors potentially influencing survival was performed on the entire population of 100 patients. Age, tumor location, stage of disease, and medical comorbidities were well matched by intent of the study design. Overall surgical morbidity (44% versus 12% P = 0.0004), length of hospital stay (16, 64 versus 10, 97 days P = 0.0026) and postoperative mortality (4% versus 0% P = 0.4949) resulted higher in the emergency group. Actuarial overall 5‐year survival was not different between the two groups. The only variables independently predictive of survival in multivariate analysis were age and rectal location of the tumor. Postoperative surgical mortality and long‐term survival appear not to be influenced by emergency presentation of colorectal cancer; the negative impact of the emergency procedures is confined to the immediate postoperative period and is probably connected to the acute medical pathology often presented by patients in emergency situations. Dealing with this kind of patient’s accurate preoperative assessment and solution of acute medical pathologies before surgical treatment are mandatory.
Intraoperative Monitoring of Intact PTH in Surgery for Renal Hyperparathyroidism as an Indicator of Complete Parathyroid Removal
Authors: Elizondo Miguel Echenique , Díaz‐Aguirregoitia Francisco Javier , Amondarain José Antonio , Vidaur Fernando
Published: October 2005

In the setting of total parathyroidectomy and autotransplantation surgery (TPT × AS) as treatment for secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), we evaluated whether intraoperative parathyroid hormone (iPTH) monitoring is useful as a reference for total parathyroid removal. We conducted a prospective, open, single value measurement efficacy study of the intraoperative (i.o.) diagnostic monitoring of iPTH in a cohort of surgical patients. All patients (n = 25) underwent TPT × AS at the Department of Surgery, Donostia Hospital from January 2002 to October 2004. The primary outcome measures were kinetics of serum levels of iPTH during surgery and prediction time of the of descent of PTH levels (measured in the clinic on the day of admission and intraoperatively during induction of anesthesia, every 5 and 10 minutes after removal of the adenoma, and again 24 hours thereafter). iPTH levels returned to normal in all 25 patients, decreasing from pathological levels at the beginning of the operation (1302.24 + 424.9 pg/ml) to half (50%) values at the third intraoperative determination, minute 10 (614.8 ± 196.62), becoming undetectable at 24 hours. Frozen sections were conclusive for parathyroid tissue (20.56 + 10.3 minutes after removal). Intraoperative measurement of iPTH is useful in the prediction complete removal of all parathyroid tissue prior to autotransplantation, thus avoiding persistence of disease because of incomplete surgery.
ET‐18‐O‐CH3‐induced apoptosis is causally linked to COX‐2 upregulation in H‐ras transformed human breast epithelial cells
Authors: Na Hye-Kyung , Inoue Hiroyasu , Surh Young-Joon
Published: October 2005

Abnormally elevated expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) has been frequently observed in transformed or malignant cells, and certain non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs with COX‐2 inhibitory activity exert anti‐neoplastic or chemopreventive effects. Contrary to this notion, we have found that a novel alkylphospholipid type antitumor agent ET‐18‐O‐CH3 (1‐O‐octadecyl‐2‐O‐methyl‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine) induces COX‐2 expression in H‐ras transformed human breast epithelial cells (MCF10A‐ras) while it causes apoptosis at the same concentration range. The addition of a selective COX‐2 inhibitor SC‐58635 and COX‐2 gene knock down with the siRNA blocked ET‐18‐O‐CH3‐induced apoptosis, suggesting that COX‐2 induction by this drug is causally linked to its apoptosis inducing activity. ET‐18‐O‐CH3 enhanced the transcriptional activities of cyclic AMP response element which is a key regulator of COX‐2 expression. 15‐Deoxy‐Δ12,14 prostaglandin J2 is, an endogenous ligand for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), has been known to possess proapoptotic potential in diverse cell types. ET‐18‐O‐CH3 treatment resulted in elevated release of 15d‐PGJ2 and DNA binding and transcriptional activity of PPARγ. Based on these findings, it is likely that ET‐18‐O‐CH3 induces COX‐2 expression and production of 15d‐PGJ2 which may mediate the ET‐18‐O‐CH3‐induced apoptosis in MCF10A‐ras cells.
Synthesis of (di)nucleoside polyphosphates by the ubiquitin activating enzyme E1
Authors: Günther Sillero Maria A. , de Diego Anabel , Silles Eduardo , Sillero Antonio
Published: October 2005

Previous work from this laboratory had shown that ligases may catalyze the synthesis of (di)nucleoside polyphosphates. Here, we show that one of the enzymes of the proteasome system (E1 or the ubiquitin (Ub) activating enzyme, EC 6.3.2.19) catalyzes very effectively (k
cat
= 0.29 ± 0.05 s−1) the transfer of AMP from the E–AMP–ubiquitin complex to tripolyphosphate or tetrapolyphosphate with formation of adenosine tetra‐ or pentaphosphate (p4A or p5A), respectively. Whereas the concomitant formation of AMP is stimulated by the presence of dithiothreitol in a concentration dependent manner, the synthesis of p4A is only slightly inhibited by this compound. Previous treatment of the enzyme (E1) with iodoacetamide inhibited only partially the synthesis of p4A. p4A can substitute for ATP as substrate of the reaction to generate the ubiquityl adenylate complex. A small amount of diadenosine pentaphosphate (Ap5A) was also synthesized in the presence of p4A.
Improvement of coverage and utilization of EmOC services in southwestern Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M.T. , Hossain M.M. , Islam M.A. , Haque Y.A.
Published: October 2005

Objective

The Government of Bangladesh has implemented safe motherhood programs throughout the country supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) aimed at reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of the interventions on the UN emergency obstetric care (EmOC) process indicators in Khulna division, Bangladesh.

Methods

Of the 71 government health facilities in Khulna division, 32 were providing comprehensive and 20 were providing basic EmOC services. Another 4 facilities were providing comprehensive or basic EmOC services during the first three‐quarters but became non‐functional during the last quarter. EmOC data, from January to December 2002, were collected from all these 56 facilities to determine the levels of EmOC process indicators relative to the UN guidelines and compared with baseline data from 1998 to 1999.

Results

There were 1.04 and 0.64 comprehensive and basic EmOC facilities respectively per 500,000 population. When compared with the baseline data, the coverage of comprehensive EmOC services was substantially increased from 0.23 to 1.04 per 500,000 population, which achieves the minimum UN standards but the coverage of basic EmOC services remained the same. The data also showed that, compared with the baseline survey, the proportion of births at the EmOC facilities increased 119% from 5.3% to 11.7% (p < 0.001), met need increased 141% from 11.1% to 26.6% (p < 0.001), and cesarean section as a proportion of all expected births, increased 151% from 0.5% to 1.3% (p < 0.001), while the overall case fatality rate (CFR) decreased by 51% (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

With the exception of coverage of basic EmOC after the interventions, there was significant improvement in all the EmOC process indicators in Khulna division. However, most of the process indicators are still far from the minimum recommended UN standards.

Recommendations

Efforts should continue to keep the EmOC facilities functional 24/7 while increasing the number of basic EmOC facilities, and improving utilization of services to reach the minimum UN standards. Community mobilization should be directed to understand the danger signs and utilization of services at functional facilities when necessary. Further research to identify the factors influencing utilization of EmOC services and continuous monitoring and periodical assessment of the process indicators are recommended to evaluate the overall situation from time to time.
A criteria‐based audit of the management of severe pre‐eclampsia in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Weeks A.D. , Alia G. , Ononge S. , Otolorin E.O. , Mirembe F.M.
Published: October 2005

Objective: To improve the quality of clinical care for women with severe pre‐eclampsia. Methods: A criteria‐based audit was conducted in a large government hospital in Uganda. Management practices were evaluated against standards developed by an expert panel by retrospectively evaluating 43 case files. Results of the audit were presented, and recommendations developed and implemented. A re‐audit was conducted 6 months later. Results: The initial audit showed that most standards were rarely achieved. Reasons were discussed. Guidelines were produced, additional supplies were purchased following a fundraising effort, labor ward procedures were streamlined, and staffing was increased. In the re‐audit there were significant improvements in diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Conclusion: Criteria‐based audit can improve the quality of maternity care in countries with limited resources.
Sublingual nitroglycerin for management of retained placenta
Authors: Bullarbo M. , Tjugum J. , Ekerhovd E.
Published: October 2005

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of sublingual nitroglycerin for management of retained placenta and to assess possible adverse effects of the treatment.

Method

Twenty‐four women were randomly selected to receive either 1 mg nitroglycerin or placebo tablets sublingually if intravenous oxytocin and controlled umbilical cord traction had failed to expel the placenta. Success rate for delivery of placenta, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood loss, and various side effects were examined.

Result

All 12 women in the nitroglycerin group had successful delivery of placenta, while removal of placenta was successful in only one of the 12 women in the placebo group. No adverse effects of clinical importance were registered.

Conclusion

Sublingual nitroglycerin for treatment of retained placenta seems to be effective without causing serious adverse effects. However, the definite clinical value needs to be evaluated in larger series of patients.
Risk and wealth effects of U.S. firm joint venture activity
Authors: Denning Karen C. , Hulburt Heather , Ferris Stephen P.
Published: October 2005

Using a sample of US firms engaged in joint venture activity primarily in the 1990s, we test the hypothesis that joint venture activity is motivated by a desire for efficient risk sharing. We find that approximately ninety‐six percent of our sample experiences a risk change in response to joint venture activity. A significant proportion of these experience a reduction in beta. No market price response is evident in conjunction with this reduction. In addition, the average parent firm experiences a significant increase in firm risk, which we attribute to taking on the risky joint venture. This increase in risk is particularly pronounced for firms engaged in international joint ventures and is accompanied by a positive market response. Investment stake, pre‐venture firm profitability, size and private risk increasing characteristics appear to influence the wealth character of the joint venture. We interpret that there may be a positive market premium for international diversification effects and/or for the flexibility that the real option joint venture opportunity provides.
Diode effect in magnetic tunnel junctions with impurities
Authors: Kanjouri F. , Ryzhanova N. , Strelkov N. , Vedyayev A. , Dieny B.
Published: October 2005

The influence on the I-V characteristics and tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) of impurities embedded into the insulating barrier (I) separating the two ferromagnetic electrodes (F) of a magnetic tunnel junction was theoretically investigated. When the energy of the electron bound state at the impurity site is close to the Fermi energy, the current and TMR are strongly enhanced in the vicinity of the impurity. If the position of the impurity inside the barrier is asymmetric, e.g., closer to one of the F∕I interfaces, the I-V characteristic exhibits a quasidiode behavior. The cases of a single impurity and of a planar random distribution of impurities were both studied.
Nanosecond time-resolved IR emission from molecules excited in a supersonic jet: Intramolecular dynamics of NO2 near dissociation
Authors: Ma Jianqiang , Liu Peng , Zhang Min , Dai Hai-Lung
Published: October 2005

IR emission from NO2 cooled in a supersonic jet and excited to a single, B̃B12 state rovibronic level at 22994.92cm−1 above the ground-state zero point was detected with 10−8-s time resolution. The IR emission together with the laser-induced fluorescence decay measurement allows the deduction of the relaxation dynamics near the dissociation of NO2. Following the excitation this single rovibronic B̃B12 level decays on 1.0-s time scale primarily through electronic radiation. Collisions induce internal conversion with a rate constant of 3.0×107Torr−1s−1 to the mixed Ã∕X̃ states. Collisions further induce internal conversion of the Ã∕X̃ mixed states into highly vibrationally excited levels in the X̃ states with a rate constant at least one order of magnitude slower. This mechanism results in the observation of a double-exponential decay in the laser-induced fluorescence and a rise in the IR emission intensity corresponding to the fast decay in the fluorescence intensity. The IR emission rate of the highly vibrationally excited X̃-state levels is estimated to be about one order of magnitude larger than the isoenergetic Ã∕X̃ mixed states and much larger than the B̃B12 level, both with much less vibrational excitation.
Internal quantum efficiency of high-brightness AlGaInP light-emitting devices
Authors: Altieri P. , Jaeger A. , Windisch R. , Linder N. , Stauss P. , Oberschmid R. , Streubel K.
Published: October 2005

The internal quantum efficiency of (AlxGa1−x)0.5In0.5P light-emitting devices (LEDs), with an emission wavelength ranging from 650 to 560 nm, is determined by means of a model that takes into account the radiative and nonradiative recombination in the active layer, the diffusive leakage of carriers into the confining layers, and the influence of photon recycling on the light extraction efficiency. The evaluation is based on measurements of the external quantum efficiency of the LEDs as a function of the operating current and temperature. The analysis provides the wavelength dependence of both the nonradiative recombination as well as the carrier leakage.
Characterization of a high-thermal-stability spiroanthracenefluorene-based blue-light-emitting polymer optical gain medium
Authors: Xia R. , Heliotis G. , Campoy-Quiles M. , Stavrinou P. N. , Bradley D. D. C. , Vak Doojin , Kim Dong-Yu
Published: October 2005

We report the solid-state optical gain characteristics of a spiroanthracenefluorene polymer, namely, poly(9-spiro(10,10-bis(2-ethylhexyl)-10H-anthracene)fluorene) (PEHSAF), specifically designed for thermal stability. An efficient stimulated emission occurs at λ=445nm under amplified spontaneous emission conditions for asymmetric slab waveguide structures. The modal gain and propagation loss coefficients were found to be g⩽38cm−1 and α=0.8cm−1, respectively. The PEHSAF stimulated emission characteristics are shown to be thermally stable in vacuo for temperatures up to 250 °C. Surface-emitting distributed feedback lasers have been fabricated by spin-coating PEHSAF onto one-dimensional grating structures. The lasers operate in the blue spectral region and exhibit low oscillation thresholds (⩾18nJ) and relatively high slope efficiencies (⩽5%). Varying the PEHSAF film thickness allows the tuning of the emission wavelength within a 16 nm window.
Fabrication and nonlinear optical properties of monodomain polymers derived from bent-core mesogens
Authors: Gallastegui J. A. , Folcia C. L. , Etxebarria J. , Ortega J. , Gimeno N. , Ros M. B.
Published: October 2005

Monodomain polymers derived from bent-core mesogens were obtained using the in situ photopolymerization technique under an in-plane electric field. The orientation of the samples was characterized using x-ray diffraction. It was found that the samples presented homeotropic alignment and ferroelectric ordering. Stable second-harmonic generation response was found at room temperature and under no field. The second-order susceptibility tensor was fully determined.
Influence of excitation density on photoluminescence of zinc oxide with different morphologies and dimensions
Authors: Shi W. S. , Cheng B. , Zhang L. , Samulski E. T.
Published: October 2005

Photoluminescence from zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, nanorods, microparticles, and single crystals was measured under various conditions of ultraviolet excitation. Near-band-gap and deep-level emissions were observed from all samples. The intensities of both emissions from each ZnO sample exhibited a different nonlinear dependence on the excitation density. These differences could be interpreted by the variation of the light scattering and the specific surface areas of the ZnO morphologies. The intensity ratio of the near-band-gap emission to the deep-level emission from the ZnO samples strongly depended on the density of the excitation light. Our results indicated that the intensity ratio of two emissions depends on the sample type (such as the dimension, specific surface area, etc.), as well as the experimental conditions (such as excitation density, radiation area, etc.). Therefore, this ratio could not be simply employed to unequivocally evaluate the quality of the ZnO.
The low-temperature a-SiNx films with high impermeability and high optical gap with application to organic light-emitting diode
Authors: Chang Hsu-Yu , Meng Chao-Yu , Huang Ching-Wei , Lee Si-Chen
Published: October 2005

A low-temperature passivation layer (≦100°C) with high impermeability and a high optical gap is required in top-emitting organic light-emitting diodes. Hydrogenated amorphous silicon nitride (a-SiNx:H) films fabricated by the plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor deposition of SiH4+NH3+N2 at 100°C fulfill this requirement. Infrared-absorption spectroscopy was used to monitor the permeability of the a-SiNx:H film. The optimum a-SiNx:H film with an optical gap of 3.1eV was fabricated at a gas ratio of SiH4:NH3:N2=10:3:197SCCM. The main absorption peaks of the a-SiNx:H films deposited at 70°C did not change at all, even following a 3000-h-long storage test.
Photoluminescence properties of quasialigned ZnCdO nanorods
Authors: Wang F. Z. , He H. P. , Ye Z. Z. , Zhu L. P.
Published: October 2005

We report on the photoluminescence (PL) properties of quasialigned ZnCdO single-crystal nanorods prepared by thermal evaporation of Zn and CdCl2 on a Si substrate using Au as a catalyst. The temperature-dependent PL spectra of the ZnCdO nanorods show that each spectrum displays an intense near-band-edge (NBE) emission around 3.1eV, as well as a weak defect-related band around 2.5eV. At low temperatures, the NBE band consists of three peaks at 3.23, 3.16, and 3.06eV. From time-integrated and time-resolved PL analyses, we suggest that the peak at 3.06eV is associated with carriers localized at potential minima induced by the Cd spatial inhomogeneous distribution in ZnCdO alloys. The peak at 3.16eV is attributed to the excitonic emission of ZnCdO, while the peak at 3.23eV is ascribed to bound excitons in ZnO.