bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Cetuximab, Irinotecan, Cisplatin, and Radiation Therapy for Patients With Locally Advanced Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Lee Michael S. , Mamon Harvey J. , Hong Theodore S. , Choi Noah C. , Fidias Panagiotis M. , Kwak Eunice L. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Ryan David P. , Bueno Raphael , Donahue Dean M. , Jaklitsch Michael T. , Lanuti Michael , Rattner David W. , Fuchs Charles S. , Enzinger Peter C.
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

To determine the efficacy and toxicity of weekly neoadjuvant cetuximab combined with irinotecan, cisplatin, and radiation therapy in patients with locally advanced esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

Methods and Materials.

Patients with stage IIA–IVA esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer were enrolled in a Simon's two-stage phase II study. Patients received weekly cetuximab on weeks 0–8 and irinotecan and cisplatin on weeks 1, 2, 4, and 5, with concurrent radiotherapy (50.4 Gy on weeks 1–6), followed by surgical resection.

Results.

In the first stage, 17 patients were enrolled, 16 of whom had adenocarcinoma. Because of a low pathologic complete response (pCR) rate in this cohort, the trial was discontinued for patients with adenocarcinoma but squamous cell carcinoma patients continued to be enrolled; two additional patients were enrolled before the study was closed as a result of poor accrual. Of the 19 patients enrolled, 18 patients proceeded to surgery, and 16 patients underwent an R0 resection. Three patients (16%) had a pCR. The median progression-free survival interval was 10 months, and the median overall survival duration was 31 months. Severe neutropenia occurred in 47% of patients, and severe diarrhea occurred in 47% of patients. One patient died preoperatively from sepsis, and one patient died prior to hospital discharge following surgical resection.

Conclusions.

This schedule of cetuximab in combination with irinotecan, cisplatin, and radiation therapy was toxic and did not achieve a sufficient pCR rate in patients with localized esophageal adenocarcinoma to undergo further evaluation.
Breast Implant–Associated ALCL: A Unique Entity in the Spectrum of CD30+ Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Story Sara K. , Schowalter Michael K. , Geskin Larisa J.
Published: February 2013

Learning Objectives

Describe the spectrum of diseases, represented by CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs), that can give rise to a reactive process. Discuss the favorable prognoses of reactive CD30+ LPDs and how they do not therefore require aggressive therapy. Explain how implant-associated ALCL (iALCL) follows Hanahan and Weinberg's principles and acquires the ability to metastasize with new mutations.

CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders represent a spectrum of diseases with distinct clinical phenotypes ranging from reactive conditions to aggressive systemic anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)− anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). In January 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a possible association between breast implants and ALCL, which was likened to systemic ALCL and treated accordingly. We analyzed existing data to see if implant-associated ALCL (iALCL) may represent a distinct entity, different from aggressive ALCL. We conducted a systematic review of publications regarding ALCL and breast implantation for 1990–2012 and contacted corresponding authors to obtain long-term follow-up where available. We identified 44 unique cases of iALCL, the majority of which were associated with seroma, had an ALK− phenotype (97%), and had a good prognosis, different from the expected 40% 5-year survival rate of patients with ALK− nodal ALCL (one case remitted spontaneously following implant removal; only two deaths have been reported to the FDA or in the scientific literature since 1990). The majority of these patients received cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone with or without radiation, but radiation alone also resulted in complete clinical responses. It appears that iALCL demonstrates a strong association with breast implants, a waxing and waning course, and an overall good prognosis, with morphology, cytokine profile, and biological behavior similar to those of primary cutaneous ALCL. Taken together, these data are suggestive that iALCL may start as a reactive process with the potential to progress and acquire an aggressive phenotype typical of its systemic counterpart. A larger analysis and prospective evaluation and follow-up of iALCL patients are necessary to definitively resolve the issue of the natural course of the disease and best therapeutic approaches for these patients.
Instrumentation and axial load testing of displacement piles
Authors: Bica Adriano V. D. , Prezzi Monica , Seo Hoyoung , Salgado Rodrigo , Kim Daehyeon
Published: February 2013

Despite the fact that results of many instrumented pile load tests have been reported in the literature, it is difficult to find well-documented instrumentation procedures that can be used when planning a load testing programme. A load test programme designed to investigate various aspects of the design and behaviour of driven steel piles is discussed in the present paper. Although the literature contains information on load testing of instrumented piles driven in either sand or clay, limited information is available regarding their axial load response in transitional soils (soils composed of various amounts of clay, silt and sand). Results are presented for fully instrumented axial load tests performed on an H pile and a closed-ended pipe pile driven into a multilayered soil profile consisting of transitional soils. In addition, the load testing planning, the instrumentation of the piles, the testing methods and the interpretation of the pile testing data are discussed in detail in the context of this and other load testing programmes described in the literature, in order to illustrate the various steps.
Assessment of burden of virus agents in an urban sewage treatment plant in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Fumian Tulio Machado , Vieira Carmen Baur , Leite José Paulo Gagliardi , Miagostovich Marize Pereira
Published: February 2013

Sewage discharge is considered to be the main source of virus contamination in aquatic environments. There is no correlation between the presence of viruses and the presence of fecal coliforms in water; therefore virological markers are needed when monitoring contamination. This study investigates DNA and RNA virus concentrations in wastewater and evaluates a potential virus marker of human contamination. Influent and effluent samples were collected twice a month throughout a 1-year period. Viruses were detected using quantitative polymerase chain reaction protocols; nucleotide sequencing was carried out for virus genotyping. Human adenovirus (HAdV) and polyomavirus JC (JCPyV) were the most prevalent viruses found in influent samples (100%) with a virus load that ranged from 106 to 105 genome copies per liter (gc l–1). Norovirus genogroup II (NoV GII) and human astrovirus (HAstV) were less prevalent, and ranged from 104 to 103gc l–1. Quantitative data on virus profiles in wastewaters stress the high level of rotavirus species A environmental dissemination and address the potential of HAdV as a useful virological marker of virus contamination in aquatic environments. This study corroborates other studies performed in developed countries on DNA viruses as good markers of human fecal contamination.
Occurrence of thermotolerant Campylobacter spp. and adenoviruses in Finnish bathing waters and purified sewage effluents
Authors: Hokajärvi Anna-Maria , Pitkänen Tarja , Siljanen Henri M. P. , Nakari Ulla-Maija , Torvinen Eila , Siitonen Anja , Miettinen Ilkka T.
Published: February 2013

A total of 50 Finnish bathing water samples and 34 sewage effluent samples originating from 17 locations were studied in the summers of 2006 and 2007. Campylobacter were present in 58% and adenoviruses in 12% of all bathing water samples; 53% of all sewage effluent samples were positive for Campylobacter spp. and 59% for adenoviruses. C. jejuni was the most common Campylobacter species found and human adenovirus serotype 41 was the most common identified adenovirus type. Bathing water temperature displayed a significant negative relationship with the occurrence of Campylobacter. One location had identical pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns of C. coli isolates in the bathing water and in sewage effluent, suggesting that sewage effluent was the source of C. coli at this bathing site. The counts of faecal indicator bacteria were not able to predict the presence of Campylobacter spp. or adenoviruses in the bathing waters. Thus the observed common presence of these pathogens in Finnish sewage effluents and bathing waters may represent a public health risk. The low water temperature in Finland may enhance the prevalence of Campylobacter in bathing waters. More attention needs to be paid to minimizing the concentrations of intestinal pathogens in bathing waters.
Mathematical Cognition in Metaphors Expressed Through Photography / Matematyczne Poznanie Poprzez Metafory Wyrażone Fotografią
Authors: Makiewicz Małgorzata
Published: February 2013

The paper signals the foundations of the new method of teaching mathematics that is currently emerging from the concept of human cognition and the constructivist paradigm. The presented examples of the hermeneutic research conducted for 17 years are concerned with an analysis of the formulated mathematical problems in the language of photographic metaphors. Thoughts expressed through the photographic image and text consisting of the caption and the description (dual coding) reveal the structure of cognitive networks of authors of photographs, which has a special significance in creation of the new didactics that will fulfil the needs of the contemporary photosociety. Mathematical photoeducation free transition between art and mathematics lies on the student’s artistic sensitivity and on enlivening the student’s cognitive expression in a space distant from the classroom (at a lake, in the playground, on the skating ring or during a field excursion to a mineral museum). It utilizes the student’s natural interest in observable natural phenomena and in man-made objects. This kind of creativity, which relies on independent uncovering or constructing of knowledge with the help of a photographic camera, opens the gates to an entirely new space of mathematical didactics, as it brings to students’ awareness specific ways of association leading to accomplishment cognitive processes in relation to abstract mathematical objects.
Affix Acquisition Order in Serbian EFL Learners
Authors: Danilović Jelena , Savić Jovana Dimitrijević , Dimitrijević Marta
Published: February 2013

Given that affix knowledge plays a vital role in the development of L1/L2 knowledge, the aim of this paper is to explore Mochizuki and Aizawa’s (2000) notion about the order of affix acquisition in the Serbian EFL context. We will attempt to analyze correlations between the EFL learners’ vocabulary size and their affix knowledge and postulate the order of affix acquisition.
Internalization and Production of Metaphorical Expressions with EFL Students
Authors: Radić-Bojanić Biljana
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the results of qualitative research with 20 EFL students, who were exposed to structured metaphorical input for one academic year. It will be demonstrated how metaphorical expressions covered in classes are used spontaneously by students in writing tasks some time after they had been introduced and practiced, which is clear evidence of internalization that surfaces during production.
Queenship, Power, and Elizabethan Mentalities in Shakespeare’s Histories
Authors: Percec Dana
Published: February 2013

The paper looks at the way in which the notion of queenship - in connection or in contrast with that of kingship and royalty in general - is reflected in Shakespeare’s historical tetralogies and in Henry VIII. It is argued that all royal figures, male and female, featured in these plays, are presented by Shakespeare in accordance not only with Tudor historiography, but also with Elizabeth I’s own strategies of self-representation. Thus, the major notions to be looked into are virtue, legitimacy, agency, as well as, more generally, early modern religious and political issues concerning gender relations
Analysis of sediment particle velocity in wave motion based on wave flume experiments
Authors: Krupiński Adam
Published: February 2013

The experiment described was one of the elements of research into sediment transport conducted by the Division of Geotechnics of West-Pomeranian University of Technology. The experimental analyses were performed within the framework of the project “Building a knowledge transfer network on the directions and perspectives of developing wave laboratory and in situ research using innovative research equipment” launched by the Institute of Hydroengineering of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Gdańsk. The objective of the experiment was to determine relations between sediment transport and wave motion parameters and then use the obtained results to modify formulas defining sediment transport in rivers, like Ackers-White formula, by introducing basic parameters of wave motion as the force generating bed material transport. The article presents selected results of the experiment concerning sediment velocity field analysis conducted for different parameters of wave motion. The velocity vectors of particles suspended in water were measured with a Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) apparatus registering suspended particles in a measurement flume by producing a series of laser pulses and analysing their displacement with a high-sensitivity camera connected to a computer. The article presents velocity fields of suspended bed material particles measured in the longitudinal section of the wave flume and their comparison with water velocity profiles calculated for the definite wave parameters. The results presented will be used in further research for relating parameters essential for the description of monochromatic wave motion to basic sediment transport parameters and „transforming” mean velocity and dynamic velocity in steady motion to mean wave front velocity and dynamic velocity in wave motion for a single wave.
System dynamics model for policy scenarios of organic farming development
Authors: Rozman Črtomir , Pažek Karmen , Prišenk Jernej , Škraba Andrej , Kljajić Miroljub
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the system dynamics model of organic farming development in order to support decision making. The model seeks answers to strategic questions related to the level of organically utilized area, levels of production and crop selection in a long-term dynamic context. The model will be used for simulation of different policy scenarios for organic farming and their impact on economic and environmental parameters of organic production at an aggregate level. Using the model, several policy scenarios were performed.
The need for simulation in complex industrial systems
Authors: Aboura Khalid , Kljajić Miroljub , Eskandarian Ali
Published: February 2013

We discuss the concept of simulation and its application in the resolution of problems in complex industrial systems. Most problems of serious scale, be it an inventory problem, a production and distribution problem, a management of resources or process improvement, all real world problems require a mix of generic, data algorithmic and Ad-hoc solutions making the best of available information. We describe two projects in which analytical solutions were applied or contemplated. The first case study uses linear programming in the optimal allocation of advertising resources by a major internet service provider. The second study, in a series of projects, analyses options for the expansion of the production and distribution network of mining products, as part of a sensitive strategic business review. Using the examples, we make the case for the need of simulation in complex industrial problems where analytical solutions may be attempted but where the size and complexity of the problem forces a Monte Carlo approach.
Wind Influence on the Formation of Nearshore Currents in the Southern Baltic: Numerical Modelling Results
Authors: Sokolov Andrei , Chubarenko Boris
Published: February 2013

A two-dimensional numerical model was used for a simulation of vertical average longshore currents generated by both wind friction and wind-wave action in the nearshore zone. The modelling domain includes the southern part of the Baltic Proper (all boundaries were closed). Wind, uniform in space and varying in time, was the only forcing in the model. The correlation coefficient higher than 0.8 was obtained by model calibration versus the field measurements of currents conducted at the Lubiatowo field station (southern Baltic) during about 1.5 months in 2006. Comparative simulations of total currents including both wind-induced drift and wave components, and of total currents including only a wind-induced drift component, showed that the input of the drift component into currents in the nearshore zone is greater than commonly believed.Wind-induced drift strongly dominates outside the zone of wave transformation, and its input into the total resulting currents remains noticeable even in a zone between the shoreline and the depth of the first wave breaking. Thus, wind-induced drift constitutes up to 50% of the resulting longshore currents for longshore winds and no less than 20% of the longshore component of currents for winds at 45 degrees to the longshore direction.
Assessment of L-Arginine as an Effect of Exogenous Nitric Oxide (No) on Expression of Markers of Cellular Stress in Rats’ Hepatocytes
Authors: Pedrycz Agnieszka , Boratyński Zbigniew , Orłowski Marcin , Siermontowski Piotr
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was immunohistochemical evaluation of heat shock protein (Hsp70) and p-53 proteins in the Larginine- induced cellular stress in hepatocytes of rats. Sixteen white Wistar female rats were divided into two equal groups. The rats from the experimental group received per os 40 mg/kg b.w. of L-arginine every day for 2 weeks and were decapitated after 3 weeks of the experiment. The rats from the control group received in the same manner 2 ml of distilled water and were decapitated after 3 weeks of the experiment. After decapitation specimens from the liver were collected, fixed in 10% formalin, and then embedded in paraffin blocks. Proteins Hsp70 and p-53 were detected on slides using the standard three step immunohistochemical method. The quantitative evaluation of Hsp70 and p-53 expression showed that the area of positive staining in the liver of the experimental rats (Hsp70 305,763.00 μm² +/-58,289.66, p-53 9,551.42 μm² +/-1,078.86) was comparable to that in the control groups (Hsp70 291,636.80 μm² +/-34,492.31, p-53 14,104.67 μm² +/-3,571.35). Our experiment showed, that L-arginine as a precursor of exogenous nitric oxide given to rats in dose similar to that used in pregnant women treated for hypertension did not exhibit an influence on hepatocytes.
Influence of 8-Hour Road Transportation on Selected Physiological Parameters in Horses
Authors: Niedźwiedź Artur , Zawadzki Marcin , Filipowski Henryk , Nicpoń Józef
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to assess the physiological responses in mature healthy horses prior to an 8 h transport, as well as immediately and 24 h after transportation in a horse truck, under autumn conditions typical for central Poland. The study was conducted on a group of 60 horses of different breed. Horses ranged from 4 to 10 years of age. Venous blood was taken 3 times: I - directly before loading the horses to the trailer, II - directly after unloading the horses from the trailer, III - after period of 24 h resting. There was no change in the concentrations of urea, cholesterol, creatinine, and magnesium and in the activity of alkaline phosphatase during the three subsequent samplings. Albumin, total protein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, creatine kinase, and triglycerides were mostly influenced by the transport. The obtained results indicate that the transportation of horses alters concentrations of physiological variables of their metabolism.
Effect of PRNP Gene Polymorphism on Reproductive Performance of Mother Sheep and their Offspring Growth
Authors: Gruszecki Tomasz M. , Greguła-Kania Monika , Niżnikowski Roman , Pięta Mirosław , Kostro Krzysztof , Szymanowska Anna , Miduch Anna , Strzelec Ewa
Published: February 2013

The polymorphism of prion protein (PrP) amino acids in codons 136 (A/V), 154 (R/H); and 171 (Q/R/H) was established. Reproductive performance of mother sheep was evaluated analysing the fertility coefficient and litter size, i.e. the number of born and reared lambs. The studies included mothers of synthetic lines BCP - 111 sheep and SCP - 104 sheep born in 2001-2007. In the examined ovine PRNP gene, the following four alleles were identified: ARR, AHQ, ARQ, and VRQ, with the absence of the ARH allele. The highest frequency was determined for the ARR (49.8%) and ARQ (45.8%) alleles. In the studied sheep population, the occurrence of seven different genotypes was reported. It was found that 71.6% of the animals had the genotypes ARR/ARR, ARR/ARQ, and ARR/AHQ, which are regarded as the most resistant to scrapie, while 7.9% of the population had ARR/VRQ-bearing genotypes (low resistance) or ARQ/VRQ ones (high susceptibility to scrapie). The analysis of the obtained results indicates that the PRNP genotype does not affect reproduction efficiency of mothers, or their offspring growth. It was concluded that flock elimination of ewes of genotypes with high and very high susceptibility to scrapie will not reduce the reproduction parameters of ewes or growth of their lambs.
Determination of Chlorotetracycline and Doxycycline in Medicated Feedingstuffs by Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Patyra Ewelina , Kowalczyk Ewelina , Kwiatek Krzysztof
Published: February 2013

High performance liquid chromatography method with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) was developed and optimised for the determination of tetracyclines (TCs) in medicated feedingstuffs. The extraction of the analyte from feedingstuffs was performed with Na2EDTA-McIlvaine buffer (pH 2.5 and pH 4). The extracts were cleaned up by solid phase extraction using octadecyl cartridges (C18). The samples were dried up and redissolved in the mixture of oxalic acid and methanol. Separation was performed on reserved phase column (Phenomenex C18, 250 x 4.6 mm, 5 μm) by multistep gradient elution, which provided better chromatographic separation. The analysis was performed at a wavelength of 390 nm. Validation study of the method revealed that all obtained calibration curves showed good linearity R= 0.9985 for doxycycline (DC) and R= 0.9981 for chlorotetracycline (CTC) over the range of 25-2,000 mg/kg. The analytical procedure was successfully adapted for quantitative determination of DC and CTC in medicated feedingstuff samples. Validation included determination of specificity, linearity, and repeatability. Mean recovery for spiked samples was 93.1% for CTC and 93.2% for DC. The results of validation of the analytical procedure proved that presented method is efficient, precise and useful for quantification of DC and CTC in medicated feedingstuffs.
Efficacy of Intestinal Scraping Technique in the Detection of Echinococcus Multilocularis - Estimation of the Limit of the Detection and Comparison with Sedimentation and Counting Technique
Authors: Karamon Jacek , Sroka Jacek , Cencek Tomasz , Kochanowski Maciej , Dąbrowska Joanna
Published: February 2013

The aim of the study was to estimate the effectiveness of intestinal scraping technique (IST) in the detection of Echinococcus multilocularis. The experimental assessment of the limit of detection and comparison with “gold standard” (sedimentation and counting technique - SCT) was also performed. Samples of fox small intestines experimentally enriched with known numbers of E. multilocularis tapeworms, were used. Twenty four samples containing 10, 30, 60, and 90 E. multilocularis tapeworms were prepared. Moreover, in order to compare IST with SCT, 127 intestines of foxes were examined using both methods. The limit of detection was estimated at 30 E. multilocularis tapeworms per sample of the intestine. Moreover, mean number of Echinococcus found by IST were several dozen times lower than the real content of these tapeworms in the samples (on average only 2 to 3.2% of worms were recovered). Among 127 intestinal samples examined with the use of two methods, eight samples (8.2%) were positive by SCT and only two (1.6%) when IST was used. A relatively high limit of detection estimated experimentally in the first part of the study, as well as, the results obtained in field investigations showed clearly that IST method could significantly decrease the reliability of the results of investigations, especially carried out in regions where a very low prevalence of E.
multilocularis occurs or in countries, which want to demonstrate that they are free from this parasite.
The Roman Catholic parish in Poland as the local community
Authors: Mariański Janusz
Published: February 2013

In the Roman Catholic Church a parish is the smallest legal unit and it is the milieu for religious, social, and cultural activities for a group of people joined together in a geographical area. The purpose of this article is a sociological study examining the Catholic parish in Poland as a local community. Today a parish along with its community is exposed to social change and to myriad forces characteristic of the postmodern culture. In Poland two opposite forces characterize the life of a parish community: on the one side, secularization and individualization, and on the other side, socialization and evangelization. The subjective dimension of a local community, which is related to identification of people with a local parish, along with social bonds with the parish as a local community, are discussed in the first two sections of the article. In subsequent sections some issues related to common activities, membership in movements, religious communities, and Catholic associations within the parish will be presented. While the agency of people in the parish community is theoretically acknowledged, it is still not fully implemented. The discussion is based on the data obtained from major public opinion institutes in Poland.
Topical Treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas – Where Are We Now? / Topikalni tretman infantilnih hemangioma – gde smo danas?
Authors: Semkova Kristina , Marina Sonya , Kazandjieva Jana
Published: February 2013

Infantile hemangiomas are the most common, benign vascular tumors of infancy. Their main feature is spontaneous involution over months to years after an initial phase of rapid proliferation. Small, superficial lesions usually resolve without sequel, but scarring and disfigurement are still possible, while the cosmetic outcome is unpredictable. Thus, inflantile hemangiomas benefit from non-aggressive topical treatment, because it is safe and with an overall outcome comparable to spontaneous involution. The available topical agents reported in the literature to satisfy these requirements are topical beta-blockers, imiquimod and topical corticosteroids. However, none of these have been assessed in randomized controlled trials, and standardized treatment recommendations about precise dosing and patient selection are not available yet.
Atypical presentations of primary genital syphilis in HIV-negative homosexually active men: a case series
Authors: Bjekić Milan D. , Marković Milica D. , Šipetić Sandra B.
Published: February 2013

We report four cases of primary syphilis of the penis in HIV-negative men having unprotected insertive oral sexual intercourse with men. Patients presented with atypical penile lesions mimicking genital herpes, balanitis, lichen planus and fi xed drug eruption. Syphilis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of other genital diseases, both sexually or non-sexually transmitted. Considering the increasing incidence of atypical manifestations of syphilis, serological tests for syphilis should also be performed more often.
Nasjonal Identitet, Det Overnaturlige, Og Oversettelsesstrategier
Authors: Lange Tadeusz Wojciech
Published: February 2013

The article discusses translation strategies used by the author when dealing with culture-specific references/concepts in the rendition in Polish of the Norwegian fantasy trilogy The Sign of the
Elves by Sigbjørn Mostue. The challenge here lay in that the novels feature a number of characters inspired by Norwegian folklore. Of the following translation strategies that in the author’s opinion are possible, but not as yet fully listed anywhere, i.e. 1) direct borrowing 2) literal translation 3) direct borrowing + footnote 4) literal translation + footnote 5) direct borrowing + descriptive explanation 6) literal translation + descriptive explanation 7) substitution with another reference from source culture 8) substitution with another reference from target culture 9) substitution with another reference from universal/global culture 10) substitution with translator’s own coinage 11) evasion by simplification 12) evasion by omission, strategies 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 11 were used in the translation in question. In his choice of the (mostly functional) equivalents in the target language, the translator drew upon two main sources: Slavic demonology and role-playing games (RPGs).
”Hvid Udenpå. Indeni er Jeg Helt... Grå”.1
Authors: Schab Sylwia Izabela
Published: February 2013

The aim of the article is to discuss the problem of hybrid identity, as it is presented in Jakob Ejersbo’s “Africa-trilogy” (2009). As the methodological framework for the analysis serve some of the main notions borrowed from postcolonial studies (as hybridity and contact zone), as well as Zygmunt Bauman’s diagnoses on “the liquid modernity” (among others his understanding of identity and his tourist and vagabond metaphors). The latter ones indicate the universal dimension of Ejersbo’s prose, which until now has been read mainly from the postcolonial critique’s position and as a polemical comment on the Scandinavian self-understanding as a region, which has never been included in the colonial project and which sets an example on providing humanitarian aid.
Den nya Kvinnan Behöver den nye Mannen.
Authors: Szymoniak Katarzyna
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this paper is to problematize and compare the construction of masculine identity in two Swedish novels, Fru
Marianne (1887) by Victoria Benedictsson and Dotter till en dotter (1977) by Inger Alfvén. The analysis is focused on how the male characters in these novels are constructed in the light of masculinity studies. In order to do that two types of masculine identity are considered: the New Man and hegemonic man. In both novels a change of the masculine identity pattern from the hegemonic masculinity towards the identity of the New Man can be observed, even though this process is performed differently. In the construction of male protagonists both authors refer to the same materialistic and symbolic attributes, however, these attributes are valued differently and play a different role in construction of masculine identity. In construction of the masculine identity Benedictsson combines the attributes of the New Man with the positive features of the hegemonic man, whereas Alfvén rejects the hegemonic masculinity as oppressive and constructs the male protagonist as the New Man.
Drømmen om Å Bli en Annen.
Authors: Katarzyna Tunkiel
Published: February 2013

The paper gives an analysis of three functions of the protagonist’s wandering in the essayistic novel Gå. Eller kunsten å leve
et vilt og poetisk liv (2006, Walk. Or the art of living a wild and poetic life) by the Norwegian author Tomas Espedal. The analysis is inspired by the interpretation of the novel by Finn Tveito (2010) and focuses primarily on wandering in urban space, in and around the cities of Bergen and Paris. The functions identified in the paper are: (city) wandering defined as a search of a metaphorical home, as acting realised on two different levels, and as a way to accept the protagonist's role as a writer. Apart from this, the paper is an attempt to portray the wanderer's identity as a postmodern man and an artist.
Nesting by the Eurasian eagle owl (Bubo bubo) in a nest of the whitetailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
Authors: Pačenovský Samuel , Chrašč Peter , Repel Matej
Published: February 2013

In 2011 and 201 2 two breedings by a pair of Eurasian eagle owls were observed in an old white-tailed eagles’ nest at Blatná Polianka in the Senianske rybníky SPA. The nest was situated in a grey poplar tree 1 5-20 m above the ground in a treebuffer by the rivulet Okna, in open lowland landscape without woodland, just with linear tree vegetation and scattered trees. In 2011 incubation of the clutch was observed and the female was present in the nest even at the end ofApril, when the fledglings were probably already present in the nest, but no more data on their further success were obtained. In 201 2 the pair of Eurasian eagle owls bred in the same nest again, but in May the nest was already abandoned and we suppose predation of the clutch, probably by ravens. This occasion is the third known breeding attempt by the Eurasian eagle owl in a raptor nest built in a tree, and the first known occasion of breeding in a white-tailed eagles’ nest in Slovakia. The obtained data also document the further spreading of the species in the Dolný Zemplín region into unusual habitats of a lowland agricultural landscape with very few trees.
Comparative assesment of steady-state pipeline gas flow models / Analiza porównawcza modeli przepływu gazu w rurociągu w stanach ustalonych
Authors: Chaczykowski Maciej , Osiadacz Andrzej J.
Published: February 2013

One-dimensional, non-isothermal flow of gas in a straight pipe has been considered to predict pressure and temperature profiles along the horizontal pipeline under steady-state conditions. Selected analytical models for the simplified calculation of these profiles are evaluated on the basis of the numerical solution of the accurate model, which incorporates the convective term in the momentum equation and the kinetic energy term in the energy equation, while treating the enthalpy as a function of pressure and temperature. For closure of the system of the conservation equations, the GERG 2004 equation of state was chosen. In order to present the discrepancies introduced by the models, the results of the numerical and analytical solutions are compared with the field data. The results show that in the case of the high pressure gas transmission system, the effects of the convective term in the momentum equation and the kinetic energy term in the energy equation are negligible for pipeline pressure and temperature calculation accuracies. It also indicates that real gas effects play an important role in the temperature distribution along the pipeline and cannot be neglected from the calculation when approximate analytical equations are used.
Dust Control with Use of Air-Water Spraying System / Redukcja Zapylenia Powietrza Z Wykorzystaniem Zraszania Powietrzno-Wodnego
Authors: Prostański Dariusz
Published: February 2013

Results from testing the dust control efficiency, when using air-water spraying system in comparison to the typical water spraying system are presented in the paper. The tests were carried out in conditions of longwall mining and at the places of run-of-mine transportation.

Also the results of stand tests of different types of nozzles both for air-water and for water spaying systems carried out at KOMAG’s laboratory and in real conditions are presented. The benefits resulting from air-water spraying system have been determined.
A checklist of Mycobiota recorded in burnt and unburnt Pinus mugo plantations in the Curonian spit (Lithuania)
Authors: Kutorga Ernestas , Adamonytė Gražina , Iršėnaitė Reda , Kasparavičius Jonas , Markovskaja Svetlana , Motiejūnaitė Jurga , Treigienė Aušra
Published: February 2013

Kutorga E., Adamonytė G., Iršėnaitė R., Kasparavičius J., Markovskaja S., Motiejūnaitė J., Treigienė A., 2012: A checklist of mycobiota recorded in burnt and unburnt Pinus mugo plantations in the Curonian Spit (Lithuania) [Degusių ir nedegusių kalninės pušies (Pinus mugo) plantacijų Kuršių nerijoje (Lietuva) mikobiotos konspektas]. - Bot. Lith., 18(1): 66-79. A devastating crown-fire occurred in May 2006 in mountain pine (Pinus mugo) plantations located in the Curonian Spit (Lithuania). During different seasons (spring and autumn) from 2007 to 2009, the mycobiota (including myxobiota) of burnt and unburnt P. mugo stands was examined in permanent sampling plots. The mycobiota checklist provides data on species composition and substrates occupied by fungi and myxomycetes. A total of 390 species of fungi and myxomycetes were recorded. At unburnt sites, 262 species were identified, 215 - at burnt sites. Forty three species were registered for the first time in Lithuania. Rare and noteworthy species are commented.
Preliminary Data on Distribution and Identification of Diphasiastrum × Zeilleri (Rouy) Holub in Lithuania
Authors: Tupčiauskaitė Jūratė , Žemgulytė Toma
Published: February 2013

Tupčiauskaitė J., Žemgulytė T., 2012: Preliminary data on distribution and identification of Diphasiastrum × zeilleri (Rouy) Holub in Lithuania [Pirminiai duomenys apie Diphasiastrum × zeilleri (Rouy) Holub paplitimą ir identifikavimą Lietuvoje]. - Bot. Lith., 18(2): 147-153.

The paper presents preliminary data on distribution of Diphasiastrum × zeilleri in Lithuania based on the collections of Vilnius University Herbarium (WI) and the data of Polish herbaria. According to these data, 25 localities of Diphasiastrum × zeilleri were revealed. The description of Diphasiastrum × zeilleri, the list of its specimens from WI collections, the pictures of typical embranchment of these species and the dorsal and ventral sides of branches from the Herbarium collections, the identification key of Diphasiastrum complanatum, D. tristachyum, D. × zeiller were analysed. WI Diphasiastrum genus collection includes: D. complanatum (46 branches, 19 herbarium sheets), D. × zeilleri (33 branches, 17 herbarium sheets) and D. tristachyum (21 branches, 7 herbarium sheets), specimens.
Brain abscesses: management and outcome analysis in a series of 84 patients during 12 year period
Authors: Gorgan M. , Neacsu Angela , Bucur Narcisa , Pruna V. , Lipan Catalina , Sandu Aurelia Mihaela , Cristescu Catioara Fanica
Published: February 2013

Authors analyze 84 cases of brain abscesses operated between January 2000 and December 2011, in the Fourth Neurosurgical Department by the same surgical team. We underline the general series profile: the mean age was 42.96 years (range: 11-75 years old), 72.62% were males, association with heart defects in seven cases (8.33%), positive bacteriological examination for germs in only 37 cases (44.04%), all negative for HIV infection. The median number of days to diagnosis was 9. Most frequent clinical presentations included headache (40.47%), fever (35.71%), focal neurologic deficits (29.76%), increased intracranial pressure (28.57%) and seizures (11.90%).

The majority of cases (76.19%, n=64) presented a supposed medical condition favoring dissemination of a previous infection: malnutrition, tuberculosis, chronic alcoholism, chronic liver malady, neglected dental or ear infections, and only 5 cases (5.95%) had been diagnosed with secondary immunodeficiency syndromes following autoimmune systemic diseases.

According to our treatment policy all cases except for two (treated by puncture and aspiration) benefited of open surgery and total removal of the lesions, without local recurrence. Outcome was favorable in 82.14% (n=69) of subjects. General morbidity was 26.19%, and mortality stood at 7.14%. Six cases remained with permanent motor deficit (7.14%) and four (4.76%) with controllable seizures. Out of a total of 33.33% (n=28) of complications, 64.28% were due to medical causes.

Follow-up had been extended up to three years for at least 2/3 of patients, who resolved in time medical or surgical conditions which determined cerebral dissemination of the infection. Despite of a poor medical and biological condition, the patients with brain abscess outside of HIV infections benefit from neurosurgical adequate treatment, and if supportive medical and general therapy is continued and sustained, the healing and survival in good neurological status is the rule. Hematogenous spread and advance age were predictors of poor prognosis. Our findings are similar to the results of recent works, although in our series, there is a higher frequency of aerobe germs
Exoticism in Jean Rhys’s Wide Sargasso Sea
Authors: Voicu Cristina-Georgiana
Published: February 2013

The notion of an endless and exotic space reflected in the title of Jean Rhys’s novel includes the possibility of hidden meanings as well as an intense feeling of the unknown and the inexpressible, which permeates the entire story and becomes an important source of the sublime. The self-conscious use of exoticist techniques and modalities of cultural representation might be considered less as a response to the phenomenon of the postcolonial exotic than as a further symptom of it, a result of the commodification of cultural difference.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder in the Bluest Eye
Authors: Beian Liana N.
Published: February 2013

The present work aims at finding relevant correspondences between Body Dysmorphic Disorder and the literary context of this novel’s main character, Pecola. The creation of such strong interdependence between a literary character and a psychological phenomenon represents a challenge on account of their apparently disparate natures but is nevertheless an enterprise capable of offering great literary and artistic satisfaction to both the reader and the author.
Lady Audley’s Sphinxian Mystery?
Authors: Raducanu Adriana
Published: February 2013

The present study is based on the analysis of the themes of madness and monstrosity, depicted through the female character, in Mary Elizabeth Braddon’s well-known Lady Audley’s Secret. It discusses the elusive nature of madness and monstrosity that may be perceived as attributes of reader, writer and characters alike; it also considers the possibility of ‘madness’ as subversive survival strategy and/or escape from narrow patriarchal, political, social and cultural confines
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Dhungel K , Ansari S , Ahmad K , Sah PL , Gupta MK , Adhikary S , Rauniyar RK
Published: February 2013

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a rare condition caused by compression of the third portion of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the aorta, causing symptoms of duodenal outflow obstruction. We report a case of SMAS in a young emaciated female with well-documented diagnostic imaging findings. Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences | Volume 02 | Number 01 | Jan-Jun 2013 | Page 73-76 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njms.v2i1.7657
Vestibular schwannomas in the modern era: epidemiology, treatment trends, and disparities in management
Authors: Babu Ranjith , Sharma Richa , Bagley Jacob H. , Hatef Jeffrey , Friedman Allan H. , Adamson Cory
Published: February 2013

Object

There are a variety of treatment options for the management of vestibular schwannomas (VSs), including microsurgical resection, radiotherapy, and observation. Although the choice of treatment is dependent on various patient factors, physician bias has been shown to significantly affect treatment choice for VS. In this study the authors describe the current epidemiology of VS and treatment trends in the US in the modern era. They also illustrate patient and tumor characteristics and elucidate their effect on tumor management.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with VS were identified through the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database, spanning the years 2004–2009. Age-adjusted incidence rates were calculated and adjusted using the 2000 US standard population. The chi-square and Student t-tests were used to evaluate differences between patient and tumor characteristics. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the effects of various patient and tumor characteristics on the choice of tumor treatment.

Results

A total of 6225 patients with VSs treated between 2004 and 2009 were identified. The overall incidence rate was 1.2 per 100,000 population per year. The median age of patients with VS was 55 years, with the majority of patients being Caucasian (83.16%). Of all patients, 3053 (49.04%) received surgery only, with 1466 (23.55%) receiving radiotherapy alone. Both surgery and radiation were only used in 123 patients (1.98%), with 1504 patients not undergoing any treatment (24.16%). Increasing age correlated with decreased use of surgery (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.95–0.96; p < 0.0001), whereas increasing tumor size was associated with the increased use of surgery (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.04–1.05; p < 0.0001). Older age was associated with an increased likelihood of conservative management (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.04–1.05; p < 0.0001). Racial disparities were also seen, with African American patients being significantly less likely to receive surgical treatment compared with Caucasians (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.35–0.70; p < 0.0001), despite having larger tumors at diagnosis.

Conclusions

The incidence of vestibular schwannomas in the US is 1.2 per 100,000 population per year. Although many studies have demonstrated improved outcomes with the use of radiotherapy for small- to medium-sized VSs, surgery is still the most commonly used treatment modality for these tumors. Racial disparities also exist in the treatment of VSs, with African American patients being half as likely to receive surgery and nearly twice as likely to have their VSs managed conservatively despite presenting with larger tumors. Further studies are needed to elucidate the reasons for treatment disparities and investigate the nationwide trend of resection for the treatment of small VSs.