bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Dirty Air”
Authors: Yeats George
Published: January 2012

This essay argues that the literary atmosphere of Charles Dickens’s Little Dorrit (1855–57) reciprocates the condition of the mid-century London air, as Dickens understood it. Through exploring the novel’s connections with contemporary medical-political debates about air purity, I hope to show that the novel can be read as a study of atmospheric influence, in both material and moral terms. In particular, I examine the metaphorical and phenomenal roles of airborne pollutants in the narrative. Dickens repeatedly correlates socioeconomic with meteorological climates: toxic investment spreads like an epidemic miasma; shady business dealings leave murky deposits; debtors are trapped in conditions of bodily and psychological stagnancy. Eventually these clouds lift from the imprisoned Clennam: as forms of atmospheric contamination the Marshalsea’s imprisoned air, the tainted ambience of the Clennam house are purified or dispersed. In Little Dorrit air becomes a medium of interchange between the body and its environment, between individuals and their society, and between the literal and the figurative.
“It Proves that Aestheticism Ought to Be Discarded”
Authors: Fischler Alan
Published: January 2012

Since the 1881 premiere of Patience, the sixth Gilbert and Sullivan opera, there has been abundant speculation about the real-life models on whom Gilbert based his rival poets, the “Fleshy” Reginald Bunthorne and the “Idyllic” Archibald Grosvenor. But all conjectures have failed to take account of the fact that, in Bunthorne, Gilbert conflates the beliefs and practices of Pre-Raphaelitism with those of Aestheticism—two artistic movements that were diametric opposites. Gilbert himself certainly knew the difference between them, but the reasons for his conflation may lie in his and his public’s perception that both movements were rooted in rebelliousness against prevailing bourgeois norms. Inasmuch as Bunthorne represents both, Dante Gabriel Rossetti would be his most likely antecedent, but Gilbert’s poet is probably an amalgamation of many of the major figures associated with each of these movements. Grosvenor, meanwhile, becomes the conqueror of Bunthorne by throwing off aestheticism and adopting bourgeois norms himself—and therefore he ought ultimately to be identified with another writer whose poetic practices and championship of middle-class values much resemble Grosvenor’s. That writer is W. S. Gilbert himself, who made a very lucrative career out of flattering the prejudices of respectable Victorian society.
The natural history of macroprolactinaemia
Authors: Hattori Naoki , Adachi Takashi , Ishihara Takashi , Shimatsu Akira
Published: January 2012

Objective

Macroprolactinaemia is a condition in which serum prolactin (PRL) consists mainly of large molecular weight PRL (macroPRL). The aim of this study was to examine the natural history of macroprolactinaemia.

Design and participants

Six hundred and fifty-four hospital workers participated in this study, including 27 subjects with macroprolactinaemia and 627 controls. MacroPRL and serum PRL concentrations were evaluated over a 4-year period. The ratio of macroPRL was examined by the polyethylene glycol (PEG) method and gel filtration chromatography. IgG-bound PRL and anti-PRL autoantibodies were examined by protein G and 125I-PRL binding studies respectively.

Results

Over the 4 years of the study, all 27 macroprolactinaemic subjects had persistent macroprolactinaemia without the development of raised free PRL, while none of the 627 controls developed macroprolactinaemia. The ratios of PEG–precipitable PRL and IgG-bound PRL did not significantly change, but 125I-PRL binding ratios significantly increased. As a whole, total and free serum PRL concentrations did not significantly change in subjects with macroprolactinaemia over the 4-year period. However, hyperprolactinaemia developed in five of the 18 macroprolactinaemic subjects who were initially normoprolactinaemic along with an increase in anti-PRL autoantibody titres. One of the remaining nine macroprolactinaemic subjects who were initially hyperprolactinaemic showed a decrease in serum PRL concentrations, which occurred concomitantly with a decrease in the anti-PRL autoantibody titre.

Conclusions

Macroprolactinaemia may develop before middle age and is likely a chronic condition leading to hyperprolactinaemia.
A history of cranial radiotherapy is associated with a higher visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio in men with pituitary insufficiency
Authors: Borgers Anke J , Alkemade Anneke , Venema Henk W , Fliers Eric , Bisschop Peter H
Published: January 2012

Objective

Endocrine deficiencies, like GH and estrogen deficiencies, are likely candidates to explain increased visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio in patients with pituitary insufficiency. However, recent reports pointed to cranial radiotherapy (CRT) as an additional determinant of an unfavorable fat distribution. Therefore, we determined the effect of CRT on abdominal fat distribution in men with treated pituitary insufficiency.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Thirty-five consecutive male subjects (16 men with and 19 men without CRT aged 62±12 and 56±14 years respectively,P=0.175) visiting our Endocrine Outpatient Clinic for pituitary insufficiency were invited to participate in this study. A standardized single-slice abdominal CT scan at the level of fourth lumbar vertebra was performed to determine visceral fat area, subcutaneous fat area, and visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio. In addition, we assessed body mass index, total fat percentage with bioelectrical impedance analysis, resting energy expenditure with indirect calorimetry, calorie intake using a diary, and serum hormone concentrations.

Results

Subjects with CRT had a smaller subcutaneous fat area (225.1 (71.1–480.7) vs 269.0 (133.2–59.9) cm2,P=0.022) and a higher visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio (0.79 (0.39–1.55) vs 0.63 (0.23–0.88),P=0.001) than subjects without CRT. Both the groups were comparable for body mass index, waist–hip ratio, resting energy expenditure, and calorie intake. Importantly, serum hormone concentrations were similar.

Conclusion

In men treated for pituitary insufficiency, previous CRT is associated with a higher visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio.
The microRNA expression changes associated with malignancy and SDHB mutation in pheochromocytoma
Authors: Patterson E , Webb R , Weisbrod A , Bian B , He M , Zhang L , Holloway A K , Krishna R , Nilubol N , Pacak K , Kebebew E
Published: January 2012

Currently, the diagnosis of malignant pheochromocytoma can only be made when there is clinical evidence of metastasis or extensive local invasion. Thus, there is a need for new diagnostic marker(s) to identify tumors with malignant potential. The purpose of this study was to identify microRNAs (miRNAs) that are differentially expressed between benign and malignant pheochromocytomas and assess their diagnostic accuracy. Toward this aim, we analyzed miRNA expression in benign and malignant pheochromocytoma tumor samples using whole genome microarray profiling. Microarray analysis identified eight miRNAs that were significantly differentially expressed between benign and malignant pheochromocytomas. We measured a subset of these miRNAs directly by RT-PCR and found that miR-483-5p, miR-183, and miR-101 had significantly higher expression in malignant tumors as compared to their benign counterparts. Area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) analysis indicated that miR-483-5p, miR-101, and miR-183 could be useful diagnostic markers for distinguishing malignant from benign pheochromocytomas. In addition, these miRNAs could be detected in pheochromocytoma patient serum. Overall our data suggest that misexpression of miR-483-5p, miR-101, and miR-183 is associated with malignant pheochromocytoma.
Advantage of oblique collision for debris protector
Authors: Shiota Ichiro , Kohri Hitoshi , Yumoto Atsushi , Kato Masahiko , Tanaka Koji , Sasaki Susumu
Published: January 2012

Space solar power system (SSPS) is expected as one of future sustainable energy sources. Collision of debris with SSPS in space is a matter of concern. The debris flies at a speed of more than 7000 m/s and the kinetic energy of the debris is enormous. Then the SSPS will be easily destroyed even if a small debris collides with it. In a former paper, we discussed possibility to construct a thin and light weight CFRP protector by oblique collision. In the former experiment, the CFRP panel was 3 mm in thickness and was cross-laminated unidirectionally aligned carbon fiber sheets. The collision angle was less than 30 degree. In this experiment, a CFRP panel with laminated plain-weave carbon fiber sheets was used. The thickness was also 3 mm. As the result, the projectile did not penetrate the CFRP panel at a collision angle of less than 60 degree. Moreover, the projectile did not rebound but slid along the panel surface at the smaller collision angle than 60 degree. From these results, a prospect to construct a thin and lightweight protective panel was obtained. A novel shape of a protector based on oblique collision is proposed.
The Cancer Mortality in High Natural Radiation Areas in Poland
Authors: Fornalski Krzysztof Wojciech , Dobrzyński Ludwik
Published: January 2012

The cancer mortality ratios (CMRs) in Poland in high and low level radiation areas were analyzed based on information from national cancer registry. Presented ecological study concerned six regions, extending from the largest administration areas (a group of voivodeships), to the smallest regions (single counties). The data show that the relative risk of cancer deaths is lower in the higher radiation level areas. The decrease by 1.17%/mSv/year (p = 0.02) of all cancer deaths and by 0.82%/mSv/year (p = 0.2) of lung cancers only are observed.
The Effectiveness of Long-Term Agalsidase Alfa Therapy in the Treatment of Fabry Nephropathy
Authors: Feriozzi Sandro , Torras Joan , Cybulla Markus , Nicholls Kathy , Sunder-Plassmann Gere , West Michael
Published: January 2012

Background and objectives

Fabry disease is a rare X-linked disease with multisystemic manifestations. This study investigated the effectiveness of long-term enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase alfa in Fabry nephropathy treatment.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In this observational study, data on patients receiving agalsidase alfa (0.2 mg/kg every other week) were extracted from the Fabry Outcome Survey, an international registry of patients with Fabry disease. Serum creatinine and estimated GFR (eGFR) at baseline and after ≥5 years of treatment were assessed; 24-hour urinary protein excretion and BP measurements were also reviewed. The eGFR was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration formula. Patients with an eGFR <30 ml/min per 1.73 m2 were excluded.

Results

Renal function was assessed in 208 patients (mean enzyme replacement therapy, 7.4 years; range, 5.0–11.2 years). Mean yearly change in eGFR was −2.2 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in men and −0.7 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in women (95% confidence limits, −2.8; −1.7 and −1.4; 0.0, respectively). Patients with 24-hour protein excretion >1 g/24 h had poorer renal function at baseline and follow-up compared with patients with protein excretion of 500–1000 mg/24 h or with proteinuria <500 mg/24 h. Renal function was worse in patients with baseline arterial hypertension, and there was a more rapid yearly decline compared with normotensive patients.

Conclusions

This study suggests that long-term agalsidase alfa therapy is able to stabilize the rate of Fabry nephropathy progression in women and is associated with a mild to moderate decline of renal function in men.
Relationship between Impulsiveness and Deviant Behavior among Adolescents in the Classroom: Age and Sex Differences
Authors: Esteban Ángeles , Tabernero Carmen
Published: January 2012

To assess the relationship between impulsiveness and deviant behavior among 103 adolescents, taking into account their sociodemographic characteristics, the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and a self-assessment measure with regard to disruptive and deviant behaviors which had occurred in the last 90 days were used. The results show that impulsiveness and disruptive behavior in the classroom were related to deviant behavior outside of the classroom. Therefore, age and sex explained the relationship between impulsiveness and behavior. The older adolescents and the girls showed less disruptive behaviors than the younger participants and the boys; both variables showed an interactive effect on disruptive behavior. The age at which sexual activity commenced and the number of sexual partners were also significantly related to impulsiveness and disruptive and deviant behavior. Similarly, impulsiveness was shown to have a significant relationship with disruptive and deviant behavior, and disruptive behavior was shown to have a significant relationship with deviant behavior.
Evaluating a Brief Measure of Social Self-Efficacy among U.S. Adolescents
Authors: Zullig Keith J. , Teoli Daniel A. , Valois Robert F.
Published: January 2012

Preliminary data were collected to evaluate the performance of a social self-efficacy measure among 4,061 public high school adolescents. Principal-axis factor analysis was followed by a 4-way between-groups analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test for differences in the Total score means on selected demographic estimates and their interactions. Relations between the Total score and selected risk behaviors were examined through a series of one-way ANOVAs and the Tukey HSD test. Factor analysis results suggested a one-factor model best explained the factor structure of the scale items (factor loading range = .64–.77, eigenvalue = 4.05, h2 = .51). Females reported a significantly higher mean Total social self-efficacy rating than males, while White students reported a significantly higher mean Total social self-efficacy rating than Black and Asian students. Statistically significant lower mean Total social self-efficacy ratings were also noted for those who reported physical fighting, avoiding school, and being bullied.
Left-Handedness in Professional Basketball: Prevalence, Performance, and Survival
Authors: Lawler Tyler P. , Lawler Frank H.
Published: January 2012

Performance and handedness data were examined for 3,647 professional basketball players who participated in at least five games during the period between 1946 and 2009. Left-handed players comprised 5.1% of all professional basketball players compared to the 11% prevalence in the general population. Left-handers had better performance averages, in terms of the number of points, rebounds, and blocks over their careers, as well as other measures, and had significantly longer careers than right-handed players. Handedness was not significantly related to mean or median life expectancy.
Facilitation of Corticospinal Excitability during Motor Imagery of Wrist Movement with Visual or Quantitative Inspection of EMG Activity
Authors: Oku Kosuke , Ishida Hiroyasu , Okada Yohei , Hiraoka Koichi
Published: January 2012

The present study investigated facilitation of corticospinal excitability during motor imagery of wrist movement with visual or quantitative inspection of background electromyographic (EMG) activity. Ten healthy participants imagined wrist extension from a first-person perspective in response to a start cue. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered to the motor cortex 2 sec. after the start cue. EMG signals were recorded from the extensor carpi radialis muscle. Trials with background EMG activity were discarded based on visual inspection. Both motor-evoked potential (MEP) and background EMG amplitudes increased during motor imagery. The amount of increase in MEP amplitude was positively correlated with the amount of increase in background EMG amplitude during motor imagery. The statistically significant increase in MEP amplitude during motor imagery disappeared when the effect of muscle activity was statistically eliminated or after trials with background EMG activity were discarded based on strict quantitative criteria. Facilitation of corticospinal excitability during motor imagery of wrist movement depends partially on muscle activity. Discarding background EMG activity during motor imagery based on visual inspection is not sufficient to equalize background EMG amplitude between resting and motor imagery. Discarding trials with background EMG activity through strict quantitative criteria is useful to equalize background EMG amplitude between at rest and during motor imagery.
Concurrent Visual Feedback and Spatial Accuracy in Continuous Aiming Movements
Authors: Sherwood David E. , Rothman Kelly K.
Published: January 2012

The effect of concurrent visual feedback (CVF) on continuous aiming movements was investigated in the preferred hand of participants of college age ( ns = 12 men, 8 women). Participants made continuous rapid reversal movements with a lightweight lever in the sagittal plane. Participants attempted to reach a short target (20°) and a long target (60°) in separate constant practice conditions, but alternated between the two targets in a variable practice condition. Four blocks of practice trials were provided in each condition, with 40 movements made in each. CVF of the position-time trace was provided for the first 20 movements of each block, but was removed for the remaining 20 movements in each block. Movements were more accurate and consistent during constant practice compared to variable practice where the short target was overshot and the long target was undershot. CVF reduced errors in all conditions, compared to movements without CVF, particularly for the short target during variable practice. The results suggest that the interference generated by alternating targets can be modulated by providing visual feedback, but once the visual feedback was removed, errors increased markedly.
The First 100 Milliseconds of a Face: On the Microgenesis of Early Face Processing
Authors: Carbon Claus-Christian
Published: January 2012

Face recognition involves both processing of information relating to features (e.g., eyes, nose, mouth, hair, i.e., featural processing), as well as the spatial relation between these features (configural processing). In a sequential matching task, participants had to decide whether two faces that differed in either featural or relational aspects were identical or different. In order to test for the microgenesis of face recognition (the development of processing onsets), presentation times of the backward-masked target face were varied (32, 42, 53, 63, 74, 84, or 94 msec.). To test for specific processing onsets and the processing of different facial areas, both featurally and relationally modified faces were manipulated in terms of changes to one facial area (eyes or nose or mouth), two, or three facial areas. For featural processing, an early onset for the eyes and mouth was at 32 msec. of presentation time, but a late onset for the nose was detected. For relationally differing faces, all onsets were delayed.
Method of Presentation and Sex Differences When Using a Revised Figural Drawing Scale to Measure Body Size Estimation and Dissatisfaction
Authors: Gardner Rick M. , Brown Dana L.
Published: January 2012

The present study examined whether a revision of the Gardner, Jappe, and Gardner (2009) BIAS-BD figural drawing scale gave more accurate estimations of body size estimation and body dissatisfaction than a prior version. It also examined whether the order of figure presentation led to differing values for body size estimation and body dissatisfaction. The revised BIAS–BD scale included a continuous line beneath 17 figural drawings ordered in either ascending or descending size. Results were compared with previous studies using the original scale in which the 17 figural drawings were presented in a random order and, additionally, with a method using an adjustable video image by which the participants estimated their perceived body size by adjusting the width of their static image. The scale was presented to 330 undergraduate university students, including 199 women and 131 men. Overall, compared to BMIs calculated from the participants' reports of their height and weight, men and women participants gave less accurate estimations of body size using the revised scale when compared to the original BIAS–BD scale and video methodology. Participants reported significantly less body dissatisfaction than with the original scale. There was no significant difference in body size estimation when the figures were presented in ascending or descending size. Body dissatisfaction was greater for women than men, and when the figures were presented in descending order. Methodological considerations for using figural drawing scales in body image research are discussed.
Memory Instructions, Vocalization, Mock Crimes, and Concealed Information Tests with a Polygraph
Authors: Bradley M. T. , Malik F. J. , Cullen M. C.
Published: January 2012

Accuracy rates with polygraphs using concealed information tests (CITs) depend on memory for crime details. Some participants read instructions on murdering a dummy victim that specified exact crime details asked on the subsequent CIT. Others read instructions not stating details, but still requiring interaction with the exact same details for the crime. For example, the murder weapon was under four heavy boxes. Instructions stated either “… remove the 4 boxes …” or “… remove the boxes …” Thus, each group removed four boxes, but only one group was primed with the number “4” beforehand. In addition, the victim unexpectedly shouted at some participants during the crime. An innocent group was not exposed to either manipulation. Memory, detection scores, and detection rates were lower for guilty participants not primed with details. Sound affected detection scores but not memory, and there was no interaction between the two factors. Information tests are limited by how crime information is received.
Effect of Respondent Code Location on Survey Response Rate
Authors: King Keith A. , Vidourek Rebecca A.
Published: January 2012

Survey response rates were examined for differences based on the location of the respondent code, a numerical code placed on the survey versus a numerical code placed on the return envelope. A four-page survey on criteria and procedures used when hiring health education faculty members was mailed to program coordinators of university health education programs ( N = 223). Half of the coordinators ( n = 112) received coded surveys (surveys that had a written overt three-digit code at the top right corner of the first page of the survey). The other half of the coordinators ( n = 111) received coded return envelopes (return envelopes with a six-digit code typed directly under the return mailing address). A total of 132 coordinators returned completed surveys (62%). Response rate did not differ significantly based on placement of respondent code. Survey researchers are thus recommended to devote their efforts to other inducement strategies to increase response rates.
Measuring Procedural Imitation Aptitude in Children: Further Validation of the Preschool Imitation and Praxis Scale (PIPS)
Authors: Vanvuchelen Marleen , Roeyers Herbert , de Weerdt Willy
Published: January 2012

The Preschool Imitation and Praxis Scale (PIPS) was developed to measure bodily and procedural imitation aptitude in young children. However, the investigation of procedural imitation is more complex than that of bodily imitation. The procedural imitation tasks of the PIPS mainly consisted of unusual acts upon objects (for example, switching on a lamp in a toy animal with the forehead). This study assessed the suitability of these tasks by ruling out nonimitative learning in 15 typically developing children between 12 and 55 mo. of age (6 girls, 9 boys). Results indicated that the tasks seem novel and unlikely to be performed spontaneously by the children. In addition, the number of target acts performed by the children in the imitation condition was significantly higher than in the baseline, investigator-manipulation, and imitation-enhancement nonimitative control conditions. Finally, the tasks elicited more frequently imitative behaviour than end-state emulation. Therefore, the tasks appear appropriate to measure procedural imitation, and the findings support the theoretical validity of the PIPS.
The Use of Feedback in Education: A Complex Instructional Strategy
Authors: Langer Philip
Published: January 2012

The use of feedback to improve students' academic performance involves complex instructional strategies. There are a number of instructional problems within these strategies that may be overlooked. These include the influence of emotional responses, interactions between teacher and student, and levels of cognitive processing involved. Feedback should be viewed as an interactive, empirically driven, problem-solving process.
Influence of Background on Precision of 3D Depth Judgment Tasks in a Real Environment
Authors: Gómez Aurora Torrents , Aznar-Casanova I. Antonio , Cardona Genís
Published: January 2012

Presently, little is known about the effect of curved backgrounds against which the target stimulus is presented on precision in stereoacuity. The experiment analyzed the influence of stimulus orientation and 3D background configuration on stereoscopic vision. Participants were instructed to perform 3D visual alignment tasks on a modified version of the Howard-Dolman apparatus, whereupon precision in depth perception for different curved backgrounds (flat, black, concave, and convex) was evaluated. In addition, the influence of stimulus orientation (0°, 45°, and 90°) on precision was examined. The findings revealed an underestimation in the perceived depth in all background configurations, indicating highest and lowest precision outcomes for convex and concave backgrounds, respectively. In addition, a significant interaction of background and orientation was found. It was concluded that, in a real environment, background local depth cues are integrated with target stimuli to contribute to depth perception.
Interactive Processing among Parts, Configuration, and Orientation of Complex Objects
Authors: Li Shiqi , Zhou Guomei
Published: January 2012

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the representation of parts and the configuration and orientation of complex objects were separate or interdependent. Participants were asked to match parts and configuration of novel 3-D objects with constant or varied features in irrelevant dimensions. The results of both Exp. 1 (sequential matching) and Exp. 2 (simultaneous matching) showed that both sensitivity and response time (RT) of part matching were influenced by whether the irrelevant configuration remained constant or varied. Both sensitivity and RT for configuration matching were affected by the variation of irrelevant parts in Exp. 2, but only sensitivity was affected in Exp. 1. These results demonstrated an interdependent pattern of representations of parts and relations but different interactive patterns in memory and perception. The results of Exp. 3 showed orientation dependency in a configuration-matching task but orientation invariance in a part-matching task. Consistent with a study done in 2000 by Edelman and Intrator, these results suggest an interactive processing between configuration and orientation but an independent processing between the parts and orientation.
Use of 11C-methionine PET parametric response map for monitoring WT1 immunotherapy response in recurrent malignant glioma
Authors: Chiba Yasuyoshi , Kinoshita Manabu , Okita Yoshiko , Tsuboi Akihiro , Isohashi Kayako , Kagawa Naoki , Fujimoto Yasunori , Oji Yusuke , Oka Yoshihiro , Shimosegawa Eku , Morita Satoshi , Hatazawa Jun , Sugiyama Haruo , Hashimoto Naoya , Yoshimine Toshiki
Published: January 2012

Object

Immunotherapy targeting the Wilms tumor 1 (WT1) gene product is a promising treatment modality for patients with malignant gliomas, and there have been reports of encouraging results. It has become clear, however, that Gd-enhanced MR imaging does not reflect prognosis, thereby necessitating a more robust imaging evaluation system for monitoring response to WT1 immunotherapy. To meet this demand, the authors performed a voxel-wise parametric response map (PRM) analysis of 11C-methionine PET (MET-PET) in WT1 immunotherapy and compared the data with the overall survival after initiation of WT1 immunotherapy (OSWT1).

Methods

Fourteen patients with recurrent malignant glioma were included in the study, and OSWT1 was compared with: 1) volume and length change in the contrast area of the tumor on Gd-enhanced MR images; 2) change in maximum uptake of 11C-methionine; and 3) a more detailed voxel-wise PRM analysis of MET-PET pre- and post-WT1 immunotherapy.

Results

The PRM analysis was able to identify the following 3 areas within the tumor core: 1) area with no change in 11C-methionine uptake pre- and posttreatment; 2) area with increased 11C-methionine uptake posttreatment (PRM+MET); and 3) area with decreased 11C-methionine uptake posttreatment. While the results of Gd-enhanced MR imaging volumetric and conventional MET-PET analysis did not correlate with OSWT1 (p = 0.270 for Gd-enhanced MR imaging length, p = 0.960 for Gd-enhanced MR imaging volume, and p = 0.110 for MET-PET), the percentage of PRM+MET area showed excellent correlation (p = 0.008) with OSWT1.

Conclusions

This study describes the limited value of Gd-enhanced MR imaging and highlights the potential of voxel-wise PRM analysis of MET-PET for monitoring treatment response in immunotherapy for malignant gliomas. Clinical trial registration no.: UMIN000002001.
Supracerebellar transtentorial approach—resection of the tentorium instead of an opening—to provide broad exposure of the mediobasal temporal lobe: anatomical aspects and surgical applications
Authors: de Oliveira Jean G. , Párraga Richard Gonzalo , Chaddad-Neto Feres , Ribas Guilherme Carvalhal , de Oliveira Evandro P. L.
Published: January 2012

Object

The aim of this study was to describe the surgical anatomy of the mediobasal aspect of the temporal lobe and the supracerebellar transtentorial (SCTT) approach performed not with an opening, but with the resection of the tentorium, as an alternative route for the neurosurgical management of vascular and tumoral lesions arising from this region.

Methods

Cadaveric specimens were used to illustrate the surgical anatomy of the mediobasal region of the temporal lobe. Demographic aspects, characteristics of lesions, clinical presentation, surgical results, follow-up findings, and outcomes were retrospectively reviewed for patients referred to receive the SCTT approach with tentorial resection.

Results

Ten patients (83%) were female and 2 (17%) were male. Their ages ranged from 6 to 59 years (mean 34.5 ± 15.8 years). All lesions (3 posterior cerebral artery aneurysms, 3 arteriovenous malformations, 3 cavernous malformations, and 3 tumors) were completely excluded or resected. After a mean follow-up period of 143 months (range 10–240 months), the mean postoperative Glasgow Outcome Scale score was 4.9.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the surgical anatomy provides improvement for microsurgical approaches. The evolution from a small opening to a resection of the tentorium absolutely changed the exposure of the mediobasal aspect of the temporal lobe. The SCTT approach with tentorial resection is an excellent alternative route to the posterior part of mediobasal aspect of the temporal lobe, and it was enough to achieve the best neurosurgical management of tumoral and vascular lesions located in this area.
Direct venous spinal reabsorption of cerebrospinal fluid: a new concept with serial magnetic resonance cisternography in rabbits
Authors: Biceroglu Huseyin , Albayram Sait , Ogullar Sabri , Hasiloglu Zehra Isik , Selcuk Hakan , Yuksel Odhan , Karaaslan Burak , Yildiz Can , Kiris Adem
Published: January 2012

Object

For nearly 100 years it has been believed that the main reabsorption of CSF occurs in arachnoid projections into the superior sagittal sinus, but a significant number of experiments and cases conflict with this hypothesis. According to recently published studies, CSF is permanently produced and absorbed in the whole CSF system. Clusters of arachnoidal villi, which are speculated to have a role in the reabsorption of CSF, have recently been revealed in the dorsal root of the spinal nerves. Huge absorptive surface areas of microvessels have been suggested to serve a putative role in reabsorption. The authors' aim was to observe direct venous connections between the subarachnoid space and the perispinal veins.

Methods

Eleven adult (6 months old) New Zealand white male rabbits weighing approximately 3.0 kg each were used in this experiment. After obtaining precontrast MR cisternography images, subarachnoid access was gained percutaneously via a cisternal approach by using a 20-gauge intravenous indwelling cannula. One rabbit died as a result of brainstem trauma during percutaneous cannulation before contrast administration, but contrast agent was still injected to see the possible MR imaging results of spinal CSF reabsorption after death. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 15, 60, 120, and 180 minutes after the administration of contrast agent. After intramuscular injections of anesthetic, 2 rabbits died 120 and 150 minutes after contrast injection, but the MR imaging study at 180 minutes after contrast injection was still performed.

Results

Direct connections between the subarachnoid space and the perispinal veins were observed in all rabbits during serial MR cisternography. The enhancement power was not affected by the amount of injected contrast agent or by cervical or lumbar penetration but was increased at higher contrast concentrations or upon seizure (physical activity).

Conclusions

Extracranial reabsorption of CSF has been finally proved with direct radiological confirmation of spinal venous reabsorption of CSF using serial MR cisternography. The authors believe that this study can help to develop a more accurate model of CSF dynamics, which will allow understanding of many CSF-related diseases, as well as the development of new strategies for treatment.
Preparation of Jam from Sapota (Achras zapota)
Authors: Ahmed T , Burhanuddin M , Haque MA , Hossain MA
Published: January 2012

An attempt was made to develop sapota jam to assess its prospect in marketability. The fruits were collected from local market and the pulp was extracted in the laboratory. Then the pulp was analyzed monthly for proximate composition. The proximate analysis of sapota pulp showed moisture 70.07%, ascorbic acid 8.90 mg/100g, pH 5.10, TSS 19.4% and total sugar 16.07%. No special change of ingredients was found during two months of storage. But, a little change was observed after four months. The products (jam) with three different formulations (50%, 75% and 100% pulp of the standard formula) were prepared. Sodium benzoate was added as preservative in a required quantity. These products were packed in appropriate container. A taste panel consisting 10 panelists adjudged the acceptability of the samples. The consumers’ preferences were measured by statistical analysis. Among the samples, jam made with 75% pulp of the standard formula (sample A2) was adjudged the best product by the panelists. Keywords: Jam; sapota; ascorbic acid; sugar; Achras zapotaDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v9i1-2.9473 The Agriculturists 2011; 9(1&2): 1-7
Association of Phomopsis vexans with Eggplant (Solanum melongena) Seeds, Seedlings and its Management
Authors: Islam MR , Meah MB
Published: January 2012

Incidence of Phomopsis vexans on farmers’ eggplant seeds collected from different areas of Bangladesh varied from 0.0 to 7.5%. The highest incidence of P. vexans (7.50 %) was recorded in cultivar Dohazari and Rupgonj L collected from Chandanish and Rupgonj, respectively. No incidence of P. vexans was observed in the cultivar Katabegun and Jessore-L collected from Pabna and Monirampur, respectively. Very low seed infection was recorded in the cultivar Shingnath, Bijoy, Ishurdi-Land Longla-long collected respectively from Chandina, Modhukhali, Ishurdi and Kulaura. Seeds collected from HRC of BARI had higher seed infection by P. vexans. Seed selection had a significant impact on the incidence of P. vexans. Use of apparently healthy seed was found effective in controlling damping off, tipover and seedling blight of eggplant. The least incidence of P. vexans (1.25%) and the highest germination (86.75%) were recorded in apparently healthy seed as against 6.5% seed infection and 60% seed germination recorded in farmer’s seed. In the net house, the least incidence of damping off, tipover and seedling blight were recorded in case of apparently healthy seed. Seed treatment with hot water (56 °C for 15 minutes), garlic (Allium cepa L) bulb extract and Allamanda (Allamanda cathertica L) leaf extract, Trichoderma harzianum CP, Trichoderma harzianum T22 and Bavistin were found promising in controlling seedling diseases in the nursery and in increasing the seed germination. Combinations of apparently healthy seed (T2), treated with garlic bulb extract (T3) and soil treated with T. harzianum CP (T11) completely controlled damping off, tipover and seedling blight in the nursery bed and increased seed germination by 48.83% over control. Keywords: Eggplant; incidence; seed; seedling; disease; Phomopsis vexans; management DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v9i1-2.9474 The Agriculturists 2011; 9(1&2): 8-17
Genetic Variability and Path Analysis of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Zaman MA , Tuhina-Khatun M , Ullah MZ , Moniruzzamn M , Alam KH
Published: January 2012

An experiment was conducted at the Research farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, BARI, Hathazari, Chittagong during Rabi season (December to April), 2009-2010 for estimation of genetic variability, genetic parameters and correlation coefficient among different yield components in a randomized block design with three replications. Thirty four groundnut genotypes were tested in the experiment. Highly significant variations were observed among the genotypes for all the characters studied. The highest genetic coefficient of variation was observed for karnel yield per hectare, followed by karnel yield per plant, branches per plant, immature and mature nuts per plant, 100 kernal weight and plant height. The highest heritability was observed in karnel yield per pant (95.08%), followed by karnel yield per hectare (94.38%), 100 kernal weight (87.01%), immature and mature nuts per plant (82.24%, 80.32%), branches per plant (79.54%) and 100 nut weight (78.98%), while high values of genetic advance were obtained in all the characters except days to maturity and days to 50% flowering. The seed yield per plant showed the highly significant and positive association with nut size, number of nuts per plant, karnel size and days to 50% flowering. The number of mature nuts per plant had high positive direct effect on seed yield per hectare followed by nut size, shelling percentage, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. Therefore, branches per plant, plant height, nuts per plant, nut size, karnel size, days to 50% flowering, shelling percentage and days to maturity were identified to be the important characters which could be used in selection for yield. Keywords: Genetic variability; heritability; genetic advance; groundnut DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v9i1-2.9476 The Agriculturists 2011; 9(1&2): 29-36
Efficacy of Foliar Spray with Seven Fungicides and a Botanical to Control Scab (Elsinoe fawcettii) and Dieback (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) Diseases of Lemon
Authors: Siddiquee TA , Islam MR , Aminuzzaman FM , Faruq AN , Islam MM
Published: January 2012

An investigation was conducted in a six year old lemon (Citrus limon) garden during March to September 2007 to find out the effect of foliar spray with seven fungicides and a botanical on the severity of citrus scab (Elsinoe fawcettii) and dieback (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) of the crop. The tested fungicides were Dinthane M 45 (0.30%), Rovral 50 WP (0.10%), Bavistin 50 WP (0.10%), Champion 77 WP (0.20%), Cupravit 50 WP (0.20%), Tilt 250 EC (0.25%), Proud 250 EC (0.25%) and the botanical allamanda (Allamanda cathartica) leaf extract (1:4). The results showed that the fungicides and allamanda leaf extract are effective to achieve significant reduction in severity of scab and dieback diseases, and to increase fruit yield of lemon. The reduction of Percent Disease Index (PDI) of scab on leaf and fruit, and that of dieback ranged 26.45-83.87, 49.01-60.20 and 35.22- 58.01%, respectively after six months of first spray. The relationship of increase in fruit yield was directly and linearly correlated with percentage of reduction in severity of dieback diseases. Based on reduction of disease severity and increase of fruit yield, Allamanda leaf extract was noted as most effective material followed by Bavistin 50 WP, Tilt 250 EC, Cupravit 50 WP and Dithane M-45. Keywords: Citrus; scab; dieback; lemon; fungicide; botanical; control DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v9i1-2.9484 The Agriculturists 2011; 9(1&2): 99-105
Effects of Temperature, Rainfall and Relative Humidity on Leaf Spot of Jackfruit Seedling and its Eco-friendly Management
Authors: Chowdhury MSM , Hossain I
Published: January 2012

Experiments were carried out during 2005-08 to study the effect of weather prevalence of seedling diseases of jackfruit in different areas of Bangladesh and develop an environment friendly disease management practice. Leaf spot causal pathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides was identified. Incidence and severity of leaf spot at seedling stage were studied and significant variations were observed depending on weather factors. Occurrence of seedling diseases was significantly influenced by temperature, rainfall and relative humidity. Comparative effectiveness of BAU-biofungicide either alone or in combination with two fungicides viz. Cupravit and Bavistin were evaluated on jackfruit in the nursery. Among the treatments applied, Trichoderma harzianum based BAU-Biofungicide showed best result in controlling leaf spot disease. Keywords: Jackfruit seedling; leaf spot disease; ecofriendly management; BAU-Biofungicide DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v9i1-2.9487The Agriculturists 2011; 9(1&2): 126-136
Lycopene - tomato's secret weapon against oxidative stress
Authors: Sarkar PD , Sahu A , Gupta T
Published: January 2012

Back ground: Lycopene, 40 carbon acyclic carotenoid containing 11 conjugated double bonds, is a phytochemical found in tomatoes and other red fruits. Oxygen derived free radicals are the most reactive species and as an antioxidant lycopene has a singlet oxygen quenching ability twice as high as that of ?-carotene and 10 times higher that of ?-tocoferol, lycopene participate in a host of chemical reactions to protect critical cellular biomolecules including lipid, proteins and DNA. Materials and Methods: The present study include 30 subjects having oxidative stress, age between 40-60 years, nonsmoker, with no history of chronic systemic illness and no medication were taken as patients.30 patients matched healthy subjects were taken as control. All subjects were selected from outpatient department of NSCB Medical College Jabalpur M.P. After estimation of base line antioxidant enzyme and vitamins, we supplement 180 gm of tomato (products like soup, paste. ketchup) contain 12 mg of lycopene to the patient group. After 60 days of lycopene supplementation oxidative stress biomarkers like SOD, GPX, GR, GSH, lipid peroxidation product MDA and other antioxidant vitamins A, vitamin C, vitamin E were estimated in patient's blood sample. Results: The main result of the study revealed that lipid per oxidation product MDA was found to be decreased significantly but after lycopene supplementation levels were improved. The results of SOD , GPX, GR, GSH,Vitamin A ,Vitamin E and Vitamin C were significantly increased after lycopene supplementation, it indicates the improved antioxidant profile after the supplementation of lycopene. Conclusion: There was a significant decrease in oxidative stress after the supplementation of lycopene therefore the study suggest that body's internal production of antioxidant is not enough to neutralize all free radicals, so increased dietary intake of antioxidant lycopene in the form of tomato products is beneficial, which is easily available in developing country like India. Key Words: Oxidative stress; Lycopene; MDA; GSH; SOD; Vitamin C; Vitamin E DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i4.9500 BJMS 2011; 10 (4): 275-279
Smoking habits of medical students in a private medical college of Bangladesh
Authors: Siddiqui MNA , Sultana S , Sharif T , Ekram ARMS
Published: January 2012

Objective: To assess trends of smoking and the relation between smoking behavior of undergraduate medical students and their attitudes towards smoking and treatment of tobacco dependence. Methodology: Data was collected from the medical students of Rajshahi Islami Bank Medical College, Bangladesh. A total of 200 male students completed the anonymous questionnaire. Response rate was 80.0%. Results: Of the respondents 20% and 80% were regular smokers and non-smokers respectively. Only 32.50 % of the regular smokers smoke less than ten cigarettes, 30.0 % smoke ten to twenty cigarettes whereas, 37.50% smoke more than 20 cigarettes per day. 25% started smoking at nineteen years of age, 22.5% started before this age and 27.5% and 25.0 % started at twenty and twenty one years of ages respectively. 70% started smoking just for pleasure. Only 29.72% smoke light cigarettes whereas 33.78% and 36.48% smoke medium and heavy cigarettes respectively. Almost 75% smokers agreed with the fact that smoking is harmful to health and 45% realized that their cigarette smoke bother others and again 70% of smokers have attempted to quit smoking but failed and 42.5% still wanted to quit smoking. About 55% of smokers complained that they suffer from chronic cough, 60% were lacking concentration in their studies and 45% felt that they were short of memory. Conclusions: Attitudes of smokers were significantly different on most items of tobacco, but knowledge of tobacco problem in the undergraduate medical students was not sufficient. Teaching about tobacco and related issues remains essential in the undergraduate medical course. Key words: Smoking; hazardous; cigarette; students; medical rducation; vurriculum DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i4.9501 BJMS 2011; 10 (4): 280-283
Thoracopagus conjoined twin - a case report
Authors: Sharmin F , Begum F , Parveen T , Khatun SF , Fatima W
Published: January 2012

A patient at her 38+ wks of pregnancy as a ultrasonographically diagnosed case of conjoined twin admitted in our department with ruptured membrane. Two live female babies joined at the chest were delivered by caesarean section. The parents refused a separation operation and the mother and the babies were discharged from hospital at 6th post natal day. A review of the literature suggests that early diagnosis by a combination of ultrasound and MRI is essential for management as it provides prognosis for viability and process of surgical separation and also the opportunity for early counseling of parents and termination if indicated. Key world: Conjoined twins; thoracopagus; prenatal diagnosis; separation procedure DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v10i4.9504 BJMS 2011; 10 (4): 289-292