bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of computer‐aided 3D surgery and stereolithographic modelling for vector orientation in premaxillary and trans‐sinusoidal maxillary distraction osteogenesis
Authors: Varol Altan , Basa Selçuk
Published: March 2009

Background

Maxillary distraction osteogenesis is a challenging procedure when it is performed with internal submerged distractors due to obligation of setting accurate distraction vectors.

Methods

Five patients with severe maxillary retrognathy were planned with Mimics 10.01 CMF and Simplant 10.01 software. Distraction vectors and rods of distractors were arranged in 3D environment and on STL models. All patients were operated under general anaesthesia and complete Le Fort I downfracture was performed.

Results

All distractions were performed according to orientated vectors. All patients achieved stable occlusion and satisfactory aesthetic outcome at the end of the treatment period.

Conclusion

Preoperative bending of internal maxillary distractors prevents significant loss of operation time. 3D computer‐aided surgical simulation and model surgery provide accurate orientation of distraction vectors for premaxillary and internal trans‐sinusoidal maxillary distraction. Combination of virtual surgical simulation and stereolithographic models surgery can be validated as an effective method of preoperative planning for complicated maxillofacial surgery cases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A generalized linear models approach to spatial scan statistics for covariate adjustment
Authors: Jung Inkyung
Published: March 2009

The spatial scan statistic proposed by Kulldorff (Commun. Statist.—Theory Methods 1997; 26:1481–1496) is one of the most widely used methods for detecting spatial clusters and evaluating their statistical significance. However, it is not fully capable of adjusting for all types of confounding covariates. In this article, a generalized linear models (GLM) approach to construct spatial scan statistics, which is readily in a form for covariate adjustment, is proposed. Using GLM, spatial scan statistics for different probability models can be formulated in a single framework. The test statistic is based on the log‐likelihood ratio test statistic and evaluated using Monte Carlo hypothesis testing. The proposed method is illustrated using Texas female breast cancer data concerning late versus early stage cancer cases with covariates of race/ethnicity and age group. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A theoretical study on commodity material flow
Authors: Xu Shoubo
Published: March 2009

This paper is consisted of four parts. The first part argues that e‐commerce and e‐commercial affairs are two different concepts. The second part discusses the property of commodity; that is, a commodity is characterized by six important characteristics including material, flow, owner, region, time and information. The third part puts forward a theory on commodity material flows (MFs) in which the concept of ‘six essential commodities for production and living’ is proposed. It is the first time that the movement rules of ‘six essential commodities for production and living’ and ‘input‐production‐circulation‐consumption’ in the social economic development process was proposed. Commodity physical flow, commodity capital flow and commodity information flow are considered as the three different states of commodity MFs, and they must follow the rule of the entire commodity movement. The theory of commodity MF includes commodity physical flow theory, commodity capital flow theory and commodity information flow theory. The core is commodity physical flow theory. The fourth part further discuses three flows, i.e. commodity physical flow, capital flow and information flow, indicating that three flows are contradictory but complementary, suggesting the systems thinking of ‘three flows integration’, ‘three flows combination’ and ‘three flows incorporation’. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theory of six forces of essential factors of production
Authors: Xu Shoubo
Published: March 2009

In this paper, the author proposes a basic theory in technological economics—Theory of Six Forces of Essential Factors of Production (SFEFP) for the first time. This theory includes six principles: (1) the principle of material and value of six forces; (2) the principle of possession and consumption of six forces; (3) the principle of spatial unification of six forces; (4) the principle of common interactions of six forces; (5) the principle of inter‐replacement of six forces and (6) the principle of cooperative development of six forces. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tolerance to fast: rational and practical evaluation in children with hypoketonaemia
Authors: Walter J. H.
Published: March 2009

Prolonged fasting in children with disorder of fat oxidation or ketone body synthesis can lead not only to hypoglycaemia but also to the accumulation of toxic metabolites. The length of time such patients can be safely fasted is important information for caregivers. Most children with MCAD deficiency when well can tolerate ‘normal’ periods without food, but in more severe disorders such as LCHAD deficiency even these may be associated with acute or chronic damage. Guidelines have been published for safe fasting periods in MCAD but not in other conditions. In the absence of such recommendations, a rational approach must be based on an understanding of the normal physiology of fasting in children of different ages and the pathophysiology associated with the child's particular disorder. Intercurrent infections pose a particular risk and may significantly reduce fasting tolerance.
Algal defenses, population stability, and the risk of herbivore extinctions: a chemostat model and experiment
Authors: van der Stap Irene , Vos Matthijs , Kooi Bob W. , Mulling Bram T. M. , van Donk Ellen , Mooij Wolf M.
Published: March 2009

The effects of inducible defenses and constitutive defenses on population dynamics were investigated in a freshwater plankton system with rotifers as predators and different algal strains as prey. We made predictions for these systems using a chemostat predator–prey model and focused on population stability and predator persistence as a function of flow‐through rate. The model exhibits three major types of behavior at a high nutrient concentration: (1) at high dilution rates, only algae exist; (2) at intermediate dilution rates, algae and rotifers show stable coexistence; (3) at low dilution rates, large population fluctuations occur, with low minimum densities entailing a risk of stochastic rotifer extinctions. The size and location of the corresponding areas in parameter space critically depend on the type of algal defense strategy. In an 83‐day high‐nutrient chemostat experiment we changed the dilution rate every 3 weeks, from 0.7 to 0.5 to 0.3 to 0.1 per day. Within this range of dilution rates, rotifers and algae coexisted, and population fluctuations of algae clearly increased as dilution rates decreased. The CV of herbivore densities was highest at the end of the experiment, when the dilution rate was low. On day 80, herbivorous rotifers had become undetectable in all three chemostats with permanently defended algae (where rotifer densities had already been low) and in two out of three chemostats where rotifers had been feeding on algae with inducible defenses (that represented more edible food). We interpret our results in relation to the paradox of enrichment.
Interactions between membrane‐bound cellulose synthases involved in the synthesis of the secondary cell wall
Authors: Timmers Jaap , Vernhettes Samantha , Desprez Thierry , Vincken Jean-Paul , Visser Richard G.F. , Trindade Luisa M.
Published: March 2009

MINT‐6951199: CESA8 (uniprotkb:Q8LPK5) physically interacts (MI:0218) with CESA8 (uniprotkb:Q8LPK5) by bimolecular fluorescence complementation (MI:0809)
Ethylene signaling may be involved in the regulation of tocopherol biosynthesis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Cela Jana , Falk Jon , Munné-Bosch Sergi
Published: March 2009

Tocopherol biosynthesis was investigated in ein3‐1, etr1‐1 and eto1‐1 mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana, which show a defect in ethylene signaling, perception and over‐produce ethylene, respectively. A mutation in the EIN3 gene delayed the water‐stress related increase in α‐tocopherol and caused a reduction in the levels of this antioxidant by ca. 30% compared to the wild type. In contrast to the wild type and ein3‐1 mutants, both etr1‐1 and eto1‐1 mutants showed a sharp (up to 5‐fold) increase in α‐tocopherol levels during leaf aging. It is concluded that ethylene perception and signaling may be involved in the regulation of tocopherol biosynthesis during water stress and leaf aging.
Specific anti-Leishmania spp. antibodies in stray cats in Greece
Authors: Diakou Anastasia , Papadopoulos Elias , Lazarides Kostantinos
Published: March 2009

Greece is a highly endemic country for Leishmania species. Canine cases of leishmaniosis are recorded in different parts of the country. However, no case of feline leishmaniosis has been reported yet. In the present study, the seroprevalence in cats was investigated as a first approach to measuring Leishmania spp. infection of this animal species, in Greece. For this purpose, blood serum samples from 284 stray adult cats, living in the major area of Thessaloniki (Northern Greece), were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of anti- Leishmania spp. IgG. Eleven (3.87%) of the examined animals were found positive. The prevalence was lower in cats than in dogs coming from the same area, based on previous studies. Despite the low seroprevalence for Leishmania spp. in cats, leishmaniosis may be taken into consideration concerning the differential diagnosis of the feline diseases, especially in endemic areas.
Evaluation of cardiorespiratory effects of combinations of dexmedetomidine and atropine in cats
Authors: Monteiro Eduardo R. , Campagnol Daniela , Parrilha Letícia R. , Furlan Luísa Z.
Published: March 2009

The cardiovascular effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with atropine were studied in six cats. Cats underwent four treatments in a randomized crossover design as follows: DEX15, saline+dexmedetomidine 15 μg/kg; DEX30, saline+dexmedetomidine 30 μg/kg; ADEX15, atropine+dexmedetomidine 15 μg/kg; ADEX30, atropine+dexmedetomidine 30 μg/kg. Pulse rate (PR) and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) decreased in DEX15 and DEX30. Premedication with atropine was effective in preventing bradycardia (PR<100 beats/min) and resulted in a biphasic effect in blood pressure. Hypertension was followed by a gradual decrease in SAP. Rate pressure product decreased in DEX15 and DEX30 whereas in ADEX15 and ADEX30 it remained within baseline values for at least 60 min. Although premedication with atropine in cats sedated with dexmedetomidine prevents bradycardia, it induces hypertension and increases myocardial oxygen consumption. The magnitude of cardiovascular effects produced by dexmedetomidine in cats does not seem to be dose-related.
Late Holocene Vegetation and Climate Oscillations in the Qaidam Basin of the Northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhao Yan , Yu Zicheng , Liu Xiuju , Zhao Cheng , Chen Fahu , Zhang Ke
Published: March 2009

Pollen evidence from sediment cores at Hurleg and Toson lakes in the Qaidam Basin was obtained to examine vegetation and climatic change in the northeastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. The chronologies were controlled by 210Pb and 137Cs analysis and AMS 14C dating. Pollen assemblages from both lakes are dominated by Chenopodiaceae (∼ 40%), Artemisia (∼ 30–35%) and Poaceae (∼ 20–25%), with continued occurrence but low abundance of Nitraria, Ephedra, and Cyperaceae. Artemisia/Chenopodiaceae (A/C) pollen ratios from two lakes show coherent large oscillations at centennial timescale during the last 1000 yr. A/C ratios were high around AD 1170, 1270, 1450, 1700 and 1920, suggesting that the vegetation was more “steppe-like” under a relatively moist climate than that during the intervening periods. Wet-dry climate shifts at the two lakes (2800 m asl) are in opposite phases to precipitation changes derived from tree-ring records in the surrounding mountains (> 3700 m asl) and to pollen and snow accumulation records from Dunde ice core (5300 m asl), showing that a dry climate in the basin corresponds with a wet interval in the mountains, especially around AD 1600. This contrasting pattern implies that topography might have played an important role in mediating moisture changes at regional scale in this topographically complex region.
The evolution of a tropical rainforest/grassland mosaic in southeastern Brazil since 28,000 14C yr BP based on carbon isotopes and pollen records
Authors: Ruiz Pessenda Luiz Carlos , De Oliveira Paulo Eduardo , Mofatto Milene , de Medeiros Vanda Brito , Francischetti Garcia Ricardo José , Aravena Ramon , Bendassoli José Albertino , Zuniga Leite Acácio , Saad Antonio Roberto , Lincoln Etchebehere Mario
Published: March 2009

The lack of paleoecological records from the montane Atlantic Rainforest of coastal Brazil, a hotspot of biological diversity, has been a major obstacle to our understanding of the vegetational changes since the last glacial cycle. We present carbon isotope and pollen records to assess the impact of the glaciation on the native vegetation of the Serra do Mar rainforest in São Paulo, Brazil. From ca. 28,000 to ∼ 22,000 14C yr BP, a subtropical forest with conifer trees is indicative of cool and humid conditions. In agreement carbon isotopic data on soil organic matter suggest the presence of C3 plants and perhaps C4 plants from ∼ 28,000 to ∼ 19,000 14C yr BP. The significant increase in the sedimentation rate and algal spores from ∼ 19,450 to ∼ 19,000 14C yr BP indicates increasing humidity, associated to an erosion process between ∼ 19,000 and ∼ 15,600 14C yr BP. From ∼ 15,600 14C yr BP to present there is a substantial increase in arboreal elements and herbs, indicating more humid and warmer climate. From ∼ 19,000 to ∼ 1000 14C yr BP, δ13C values indicated the predominance of C3 plants. These results are in agreement with studies in speleothems of caves, which suggest humid conditions during the last glacial maximum.
Short stature and obesity: positive association in adults but inverse association in children and adolescents
Authors: Bosy-Westphal Anja , Plachta-Danielzik Sandra , Dörhöfer Ralf-Peter , Müller Manfred J.
Published: March 2009

Shorter than average adults are at a higher risk for obesity and are also more susceptible to diabetes and CVD, independent of BMI. In contrast, taller children have a higher risk of obesity. We hypothesised that short stature is related to adverse body composition and that the association between stature and obesity differs between generations. In a cross-sectional German database of 213 804 adults and 12 411 children and adolescents, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was compared between percentiles of height. The association between stature and percentage of fat mass (%FM), lean BMI (LBMI; kg/m2) or waist:hip ratio (in children only) was analysed within BMI groups. In adults, the prevalence of BMI >30 kg/m2 gradually increased with decreasing percentile of height whereas in children and adolescents, a positive association between height and weight status was observed. Short-stature women and girls had a 0·8–3·2 % lower %FM than tall subjects (P < 0·05), whereas no trend for %FM was observed in males. When compared with tall subjects, LBMI was 0·2–0·6 kg/m2 lower in short-stature men, as well as obese women (P < 0·05). There was a non-significant trend for a lower LBMI and a higher waist:hip ratio in shorter children. In conclusion, short stature is associated with an increased risk of obesity in adults. Cardiometabolic risk in short stature is not explained by an adverse body composition.
Some similarities in dietary clusters of pre-school children and their mothers
Authors: Ovaskainen Marja-Leena , Nevalainen Jaakko , Uusitalo Liisa , Tuokkola Jetta J. , Arkkola Tuula , Kronberg-Kippilä Carina , Veijola Riitta , Knip Mikael , Virtanen Suvi M.
Published: March 2009

The diet of pre-school children is determined by the parents and carers. The aim of the present study was to describe dietary clusters of pre-school children and their mothers in Finland, and analyse the similarity of dietary clusters within child–mother pairs. The present study comprised the mothers (n 4862) whose child was recruited in the Type 1 Diabetes Prediction and Prevention Nutrition Study and the children belonging to selected, cross-sectional age groups of 1 year (n 719), 3 years (n 708) and 6 years (n 841). The dietary data were collected from children by 3-d food records and from mothers by a FFQ validated for pregnant women. The food consumption data were analysed for patterns by hierarchical cluster analysis. Three main dietary clusters were identified in children: ‘healthy’ and ‘traditional’ in all three age groups, and ‘ready-to-eat baby foods’ in 1-year-olds and ‘fast foods, sweet’ in the older children. Six main clusters were identified among the mothers who completed a FFQ for their diet during pregnancy. Some familial dependence between dietary clusters of mother–child pairs was observed in 6-year-old children but not in younger children. Younger age and lower educational level of the mother were associated with the cluster ‘fast food, sweet’ only at the age of 3 years. The diets of pre-school children vary by age and only a slight similarity within dietary clusters of mother–child pairs was observed.
Politics in C Minor: The CDU/CSU between Germany and Europe since the Secular Sixties
Authors: Granieri Ronald J.
Published: March 2009

In 1962, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) faced an uncertain future. The governing party within the Federal Republic of Germany since the state's founding in 1949 (along with its Bavarian partner, the Christian Social Union, known collectively as the CDU/CSU or Union), the CDU had endured a bruising election campaign through the summer of 1961. The combination of a dynamic young Social Democratic challenger, Willy Brandt, and the building of the Berlin Wall had exposed frustration with the leadership style of octogenarian Chancellor and CDU Chair Konrad Adenauer, and cost the Union its absolute majority in the Bundestag. Electoral disappointment was followed by protracted coalition negotiations with the liberal Free Democratic Party (FDP), which nearly doubled its vote totals by promising voters a coalition “with the Union but without Adenauer.” The coalition negotiations dragged on well into late autumn and exposed internal divisions. Adenauer, the only chancellor the Federal Republic had ever known, had been forced to agree to retire before 1965 to allow his successor to prepare for the next campaign.
Rethinking the Role of Artisans in Modern German Development
Authors: Hansen Hal
Published: March 2009

Since so much of what distinguishes Germany's social-economic development from that of other advanced capitalist societies derives from the prominence of the handicrafts (Handwerk) and their institutional legacy, it is regrettable that artisan sightings have become so rare in recent central European scholarship.1It is especially so because disparaging postwar historiographic portrayals of “backward” late-nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century artisans leave us without a way to understand the emergence of a prosperousMittelstandof small and medium-sized craft producers in the postwar years. Moreover, inasmuch as the existence of a vibrant, legally distinct class of handicraft firms constitutes one of the most striking features of the modern German political economy, we need an account of how it evolved and why.2Furthermore, without this, we have no way to explain several other distinctive “peculiarities” of German institutional arrangements: an educational system that directs a majority of young Germans to practically oriented, work-based apprenticeships supplemented by part-time schooling instead of academically oriented, full-time secondary schools; a labor market that effectively professionalized all occupations and limited the creation of mere “jobs”; and a training system that, as it diffused from the craft to the industrial and service sectors, reinforced Germany's historic manufacturing preference for producing diversified, high-quality goods and services.3In short, no history of modern German economic, social, or political development can afford to dispense with artisans or their institutions.
“Assembly Line of Joys”: Touring Hamburg's Red Light District, 1949–1966
Authors: Sneeringer Julia
Published: March 2009

Hamburg, as any tourist guide will tell you, occupies a unique position within Germany. Now, every city can make this claim, so what constitutes Hamburg's uniqueness? Natives would say it is the harbor (Germany's largest) and the water that flows through the metropolis that claims more bridges than Venice. But ask an outsider, German or not, and he or she will likely say the Reeperbahn, Hamburg's notorious red-light district, known also to music fans as the incubator of The Beatles. Historically speaking, the harbor has been this Hanseatic city's source of trade and prosperity, as well as a major transit point for overseas travelers; the nearby Reeperbahn has long been a magnet for those seeking pleasure and distraction from the cares of life. In the 1950s and 1960s—the years of West Germany's “Economic Miracle” (Wirtschaftswunder)—Hamburg saw greater numbers of visitors than ever before. These guests included Germans from west and east (before the Berlin Wall was erected in 1961); international tourists, particularly from neighboring countries; British NATO troops stationed in the northern Federal Republic; and seamen from around the world. Some chose Hamburg specifically as their destination, others passed through on their way to someplace else.
Epeirogenic transgression near a triple junction: the oldest (latest early–middle Cambrian) marine onlap of cratonic New York and Quebec
Authors: LANDING ED , AMATI LISA , FRANZI DAVID A.
Published: March 2009

The discovery of a fossiliferous interval (Altona Formation, new unit) under the Potsdam Formation requires a new geological synthesis of a large part of the northeast Laurentian craton. Potsdam sandstones can no longer be regarded as the oldest sedimentary unit on the middle Proterozoic Grenville orogen in northern New York and adjacent Quebec and Ontario. The thickest Potsdam sections (to 750 m) in the east Ottawa–Bonnechere aulocogen have been explained by deposition with normal faulting possibly associated with Ediacaran rifting (c. 570 Ma) that led to formation of the Iapetus Ocean. However, sparse trilobite faunas show a terminal early Cambrian–middle middle Cambrian age of the Altona, and indicate much later marine transgression (c. 510 Ma) of the northeast Laurentian craton. Altona deposition was followed by rapid accumulation of lower Potsdam (Ausable Member) sandstone in the middle–late middle Cambrian. The Altona–Ausable succession is probably conformable. The Altona is a lower transgressive systems tract unit deposited on the inner shelf (sandstone, reddish mudstone, and carbonates) followed by aggradation and the deposition of highstand systems tract, current cross-bedded, in part terrestrial(?), feldspathic Ausable sandstone. Unexpectedly late Altona transgression and rapid Ausable deposition may reflect renewed subsidence in the Ottawa–Bonnechere aulocogen with coeval (terminal early Cambrian) faulting that formed the anoxic Franklin Basin on the Vermont platform. Thus, the oldest cover units on the northeast New York–Quebec craton record late stages in a cooling history near an Ediacaran triple junction defined by the Quebec Reentrant and New York Promontory and the Ottawa–Bonnechere aulocogen.
Evaluation of different primers for PCR-DGGE analysis of cheese-associated enterococci
Authors: Lorbeg Petra Mohar , Majhenič Andreja Čanžek , Rogelj Irena
Published: March 2009

Enterococci represent an important part of bacterial microbiota in different types of artisanal cheeses, made from either raw or pasteurized milk. Polymerase chain reaction denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) of ribosomal DNA is currently one of the most frequently used fingerprinting method to study diversity and dynamics of microbial communities and also a tool for microbial identification. Among several primer pairs for DGGE analysis published so far, six primer pairs amplifying different variable regions of 16S rDNA were selected and applied in our DGGE analysis of 12 species belonging to genusEnterococcusand eight other bacterial species often found in cheeses (seven lactobacilli and oneLactoccocus lactis). When DGGE procedures were optimized, the same set of primers was used for DGGE analysis of five cheese samples. Our study demonstrates that the use of different primer pairs generate significant differences in DGGE analysis of enterococcal population, consequently, appropriate primers regarding the purpose of analysis can be selected. For differentiation and identification of pure enterococcal isolates, primer pair P1V1/P2V1 showed the most promising results since all 12 enterococcal isolates gave distinctive DGGE fingerprints, but with multiple bands patterns; therefore, these primers do not seem to be appropriate for identification of enterococcal species in mixed cultures. Use of primer pairs HDA1/HDA2 and V3f/V3r amplifying V3 region showed better potential for detection and identification of enterococci in mixed communities, but since some bacterial species showed the same fingerprint, for clear identification combination of DGGE and some other method (e.g. species specific PCR) or combined DGGE analysis using two primer pairs generating distinctive results should be used.
Milk concentration of the mammalian lignan enterolactone, milk production, milk fatty acid profile, and digestibility in dairy cows fed diets containing whole flaxseed or flaxseed meal
Authors: Petit Hélène V , Gagnon Nathalie , Mir Priyadarshini S , Cao Rong , Cui Steve
Published: March 2009

A total of 24 lactating Holstein cows averaging 620 (se=29) kg of body weight were allotted at week 17 of lactation to eight groups of three cows blocked for similar days in milk to determine the effects of feeding two sources of the plant lignan precursor secoisolariciresinol diglucoside, whole flaxseed and flaxseed meal, on concentrations of the mammalian lignans (enterodiol and enterolactone) in milk. Feed intake, digestion, milk production and milk composition were also determined to compare the use of whole flaxseed and flaxseed meal for milk production. Cows within each block were assigned to one of the three isonitrogenous and isoenergetic total mixed diets: no flaxseed product; 10% flaxseed meal; or 10% whole flaxseed in the dry matter. The experiment was carried out from week 17 to week 21 of lactation and diets were fed at ad-libitum intake. The mammalian lignan, enterodiol, was not detected in the milk of cows. Cows fed whole flaxseed and flaxseed meal had greater concentrations of enterolactone in milk than those fed the control diet. Feed intake, milk production and milk composition were also similar for all diets, indicating that both flaxseed meal and whole flaxseed are suitable feed ingredients for milk production of cows in mid lactation. The results provide new information on the conversion of plant secoisolariciresinol diglucoside from two flaxseed products into mammalian lignans in dairy cows.
Unusual clivus lesion demonstrating extramedullary haematopoiesis: case report
Authors: Kulendra K , Butler C , Grant W , Sandison A , Cho G , Patel M C
Published: March 2009

Introduction:

An unusual clivus mass is reported, following investigation of memory disturbance and headaches in a patient with β thalassaemia and sickle cell disease. This lesion proved to be a site of extramedullary haematopoiesis.

Radiological findings:

Computed tomography demonstrated a 2 cm mass at the base of the sphenoid. However, magnetic resonance imaging showed little bony expansion, and the differential diagnosis included chordoma, dermoid cyst and fibrodysplasia.

Histological findings:

Examination of the biopsy showed the presence of bone marrow demonstrating erythroid hyperplasia and small aggregates of B-cell lymphocytes. The features were considered compatible with erythroid hyperplasia associated with haemolytic anaemia.

Management:

The patient was reassured that she did not have a neoplastic lesion, and was referred back to the haematologists for further management of her sickling β thalassaemia.

Conclusions:

Extramedullary haematopoiesis occurs outside the reticuloendothelial system in response to haemolytic anaemia. Extramedullary haematopoiesis causing a clivus mass is an unusual ENT presentation. Such haematopoiesis is occasionally seen in the calvarial skull, but this is the first report of this process occurring in the anterior skull base, to our knowledge.
Endoscopic resection of haemangiomas in the sinonasal cavity
Authors: Song C E , Cho J H , Kim S Y , Kim S W , Kim B G , Kang J M
Published: March 2009

Objectives:

Haemangiomas do not develop as commonly in the sinonasal cavity, compared with other head and neck sites. The clinical characteristics of sinonasal cavity haemangiomas and the results for endoscopic resection have been addressed in the literature only briefly. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate these points.

Materials and methods:

A retrospective chart review was undertaken of 22 patients who had undergone endoscopic excision of sinonasal cavity haemangiomas, in order to define clinical characteristics and tumour control rates.

Results and analysis:

The most common presenting symptom was epistaxis. The most prevalent site was the inferior turbinate (45.5 per cent), followed by the maxillary sinus (18.2 per cent). No recurrence was observed in any patient.

Conclusion:

Although past studies have described external approach sinonasal surgery as the mainstay of treatment, our results imply that endoscopic excision of sinonasal haemangiomas yields excellent outcomes in terms of tumour control and safety.
Anterior cricoid split procedure with transposition of cricoid cartilage segment
Authors: Cho J K , Ko M H , Ryu J , Jeong H-S
Published: March 2009

Objective:

In order to improve the outcome and to reduce the post-operative care burden following the anterior cricoid split procedure, we modified the procedure to involve splitting only the cricoid cartilage, not the mucosa deep to the cartilage. In addition, we transposed the cricoid cartilage segment after division of the cricoid ring in the midline.

Case report:

We present the use of our modification in a 19-month-old boy with early-stage subglottic stenosis.

Results:

The technique was performed in one surgical field, and the graft material obtained had the same thickness as the cricoid cartilage. Because there was no intraluminal break, this procedure allowed the patient to avoid the complications of prolonged stenting, and resulted in more rapid extubation.

Conclusion:

The anterior cricoid split procedure with transposition of the cricoid cartilage segment may be a useful treatment option for early-stage subglottic stenosis, with improved outcomes and a reduced post-operative care burden.
Spontaneous perforation of cervical oesophagus: a rare variant of Boerhaave's syndrome
Authors: Mittal S , Rohatgi A , Sutcliffe R P , Botha A
Published: March 2009

Background:

A 29-year-old man presented with sudden onset of severe pain in his throat, difficulty breathing and a hoarse voice, following an episode of vomiting.

Investigations:

Initial laboratory tests were normal. The patient underwent fibre-optic nasendoscopy, which demonstrated a haematoma in the piriform fossa. Lateral neck radiography and subsequent computed tomography scanning confirmed a 2 cm, loculated, gas-containing collection at the level of the vallecula in the right posterolateral wall, extending to the false vocal folds and communicating between the right parapharyngeal space and the right carotid sheath. Water-soluble contrast swallow confirmed the diagnosis.

Diagnosis:

Contained oesophageal perforation.

Management:

Conservative treatment was adopted involving nil orally, intravenous antibiotics and nasogastric feeding. The patient made an uneventful recovery.
Nonlinear waves in twirling plasmas
Authors: KARIMOV A. R.
Published: March 2009

The dynamics of nonlinear two-dimensional plasma waves under non-equilibrium conditions is studied in the framework of the two-fluid hydrodynamic approach. The field of initial velocities for a twirling cylindrical plasma is considered as the initial non-equilibrium state. The influence of initial conditions on the formation and existence of nonlinear electron waves is discussed.
Natural infection of cattle and tsetse flies in South Africa with two genotypic groups of Trypanosoma congolense
Authors: MAMABOLO M. V. , NTANTISO L. , LATIF A. , MAJIWA P. A. O.
Published: March 2009

The polymerase chain reaction was used to detect trypanosomes in samples collected from cattle, wild animals and tsetse flies in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. A total of 673 samples from cattle and 266 from tsetse flies in the study area located near the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve were analysed. Both Trypanosoma congolense and T. vivax were found as single or mixed infections in cattle and tsetse flies. Moreover, the T. congolense in the infections were found to comprise 2 genotypic groups: the Savannah-type and the Kilifi-type, which were present either as single or mixed infections in cattle and in tsetse flies.
Reflections on the biochemistry ofEchinococcus: past, present and future
Authors: McMANUS D. P.
Published: March 2009

This review discusses 5 of my earliest papers on the biochemistry of larvalEchinococcuspublished inParasitologyin the 1970s and 1980s. Two of the publications consider aspects of the basic biochemistry, intermediary metabolism and the regulation of respiratory pathways inE. granulosusandE. multilocularis, and emphasize the existence of inter- and intra-species variation in their general metabolism. The third reports on the detailed biochemical analysis of the tegumental surface of the protoscolex ofE. granulosus, and the final 2 papers describe the genomic cloning ofEchinococcusDNA fragments and their use, along with other DNA markers, in molecular identification ofE. granulosusisolates collected worldwide from areas endemic for hydatid disease. A number of years have elapsed since these publications inParasitologyand, in this Centenary Issue article, I reflect briefly on some of the subsequent studies undertaken in these research areas that have advanced the field. As well, I provide brief insight on new research directions, emphasizing the impact of molecular biology and associated techniques on future studies ofEchinococcusand hydatid disease.
The endohelminth fauna of barbel (Barbus barbus) correlates with water quality of the Danube River in Bulgaria
Authors: NACHEV M. , SURES B.
Published: March 2009

Infection of barbel with 10 species of metazoan parasites including 3 trematodes, 3 acanthocephalans and 4 nematodes was observed in fish collected from 3 localities in the Bulgarian part of the river Danube between summer 2004 and summer 2007. The composition as well as the diversity characteristics of the parasite communities were analysed seasonally and showed a clear correlation with the composition of the invertebrate fauna and water quality. The most prevalent species was the acanthocephalanPomphorhynchus laevis, which was also the dominant species of the intestinal component communities at all sampling sites. The second most frequent parasite at all Danube localities wasRhabdochona hellichi, which occurred in significantly higher numbers at the less polluted sites. Overall, the diversity of helminth communities increased with decreasing levels of nutrients and pollutants at all sampling sites. Therefore, the composition and diversity of parasite communities may be used to characterize ecosystem health and integrity.
Are auditory P300 and duration MMN heritable and putative endophenotypes of psychotic bipolar disorder? A Maudsley Bipolar Twin and Family Study
Authors: Hall M.-H. , Schulze K. , Rijsdijk F. , Kalidindi S. , McDonald C. , Bramon E. , Murray R. M. , Sham P.
Published: March 2009

Background

Impaired P300 auditory response has been reported in patients with psychotic bipolar disorder (BPD) and unaffected relatives of psychotic bipolar patients. Deficits in mismatch negativity (MMN), however, have not been observed in bipolar patients. To our knowledge, no family study of MMN in BPD has been reported. The current study combined the Maudsley twin and bipolar family samples using genetic model fitting analyses to: (1) assess the relationship between BPD and MMN, (2) substantiate the association between psychotic BPD and P300 variables, (3) verify the genetic overlap of BPD with P300 amplitude previously reported in the twin sample, and (4) examine the shared genetic influences between BPD and bilateral temporal scalp locations of P300 components.

Method

A total of 301 subjects were included in this study, including 94 twin pairs, 31 bipolar families, and 39 unrelated healthy controls. Statistical analyses were based on structural equation modelling.

Results

Both P300 and MMN are heritable, with heritability estimates of 0.58 for MMN, 0.68–0.80 for P300 amplitude, and 0.21–0.56 for P300 latency. The bipolar patients and their relatives showed normal MMN. No significant association, either genetic or environmental, was found with BPD. BPD was significantly associated with reduced P300 amplitude and prolonged latency on midline and bilateral temporal-posterior scalp areas. Shared genetic factors were the main source of these associations.

Conclusions

The results confirm that MMN is not an endophenotype for psychotic BPD whereas P300 amplitude and latency components are valid endophenotypes for psychotic BPD.
The geometric dimension of an equivalence relation and finite extensions of countable groups
Authors: DOOLEY A. H. , GOLODETS V. YA.
Published: March 2009

We say that the geometric dimension of a countable group G is equal to n if any free Borel action of G on a standard Borel probability space (X,μ), induces an equivalence relation of geometric dimension n on (X,μ) in the sense of Gaboriau. Let ℬ be the set of all finitely generated amenable groups all of whose subgroups are also finitely generated, and let 𝒜 be the subset of ℬ consisting of finite groups, torsion-free groups and their finite extensions. In this paper we study finite free products K of groups in 𝒜. The geometric dimension of any such group K is one: we prove that also geom-dim(Gf(K))=1 for any finite extension Gf(K) of K, applying the results of Stallings on finite extensions of free product groups, together with the results of Gaboriau and others in orbit equivalence theory. Using results of Karrass, Pietrowski and Solitar we extend these results to finite extensions of free groups. We also give generalizations and applications of these results to groups with geometric dimension greater than one. We construct a family of finitely generated groups {Kn}n∈ℕ,n>1, such that geom-dim(Kn)=n and geom-dim(Gf(Kn))=n for any finite extension Gf(Kn) of Kn. In particular, this construction allows us to produce, for each integer n>1, a family of groups {K(s,n)}s∈ℕ of geometric dimension n, such that any finite extension of K(s,n) also has geometric dimension n, but the finite extensions Gf(K(s,n)) are non-isomorphic, if s≠s′.
Birkhoff normalization and superintegrability of Hamiltonian systems
Authors: ITO HIDEKAZU
Published: March 2009

We study Birkhoff normalization in connection with superintegrability of ann-degree-of-freedom Hamiltonian systemXHwith holomorphic HamiltonianH. Without assuming any Poisson commuting relation among integrals, we prove that, if the system XHhasn+qholomorphic integrals near an equilibrium point of resonance degreeq≥0, there exists a holomorphic Birkhoff transformation φ such thatH∘φ becomes a holomorphic function ofn−qvariables and thatXH∘φcan be solved explicitly. Furthermore, the Birkhoff normal formH∘φ is determined uniquely, independently of the choice of φ, as convergent power series. We also show that the systemXHis superintegrable in the sense of Mischenko–Fomenko as well as Liouville-integrable near the equilibrium point.
Multifocal visual evoked potential responses to pattern-reversal, pattern-onset, pattern-offset, and sparse pulse stimuli
Authors: FORTUNE BRAD , DEMIREL SHABAN , BUI BANG V.
Published: March 2009

The purpose of the present study was to compare standard multifocal visual evoked potential (mfVEP) pattern-reversal responses with those produced by pattern-onset, pattern-offset, and pulsed pattern stimuli. mfVEP recordings were obtained from five normal subjects using VERIS and a 4-electrode array. The standard reversal stimulus had 215 m-sequence steps (7.5-min duration). Pattern-onset and -offset responses were evaluated using sequences that all had 32 frames per m-step and 210 total steps (7.5 min); but the duration of the contrast step varied so that it was 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, or 16 of the 32 frames. The same series was also inverted so that adapting contrast was high and the stimulus step began with a contrast decrement. The effect of temporal sparseness was studied with positive contrast pulses (two-frame duration) within 16, 20, 24, 28, or 32 frames per m-step (all had 211 total steps). Four stimulus locations were isolated to study the effect of spatial sparseness. Standard mfVEP reversal responses were virtually identical to onset responses throughout the field, but ~3.5 times smaller. Responses to pattern onset were about twice as large as those for offset, especially in the lower hemifield, irrespective of adapting contrast level. Offset responses exhibited a different waveform compared with reversal, onset, or brief pulse responses. Though temporally sparse pattern-pulse responses were ~3.5 times larger than standard reversal responses, there was no improvement in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). However, spatial isolation increased SNR by 22% for reversal responses and by 62% for temporally sparse pulses. Temporally sparse pattern-pulse stimuli do not improve mfVEP SNR unless they are also spatially sparse, suggesting that lateral inhibitory mechanisms have a greater impact than temporal contrast gain control mechanisms. The mfVEP response depends on the polarity of a contrast step, irrespective of the state of contrast adaptation.
The topography of cone photoreceptors in the retina of a diurnal rodent, the agouti (Dasyprocta aguti)
Authors: ROCHA FERNANDO ALLAN de FARIAS , AHNELT PETER K. , PEICHL LEO , SAITO CÉZAR A. , SILVEIRA LUIZ CARLOS L. , DE LIMA SILENE MARIA A.
Published: March 2009

The presence, density distribution, and mosaic regularity of cone types were studied in the retina of the diurnal agouti,Dasyprocta aguti. Longwave-sensitive (L-) and shortwave-sensitive (S-) cones were detected by antibodies against the respective cone opsins. L- and S-cones were found to represent around 90 and 10% of the cone population, respectively. There was no evidence for L- and S-opsin coexpression in agouti cones. L-cone densities were highest, up to 14,000/mm2, along a horizontal visual streak located about 2–3 mm dorsal to the optic nerve, and the L-cone distribution showed a dorsoventral asymmetry with higher densities in ventral (about 10,000/mm2) than in dorsal (about 4000/mm2) retinal regions. This L-cone topography parallels the agouti’s ganglion cell topography. S-cones had a peak density of 1500–2000/mm2in the central retinal region but did not form a visual streak. Their distribution also showed a dorsoventral asymmetry with densities around 600/mm2in dorsal and around 1000/mm2in ventral retinal regions. The patterning of cone arrays was assessed by the density recovery profile analysis. At all eccentricities evaluated, the S-cone mosaic less efficiently packed than the L-cone mosaic. Rod densities ranged from 47,000/mm2in peripheral to 64,000/mm2in central retina, and rod:cone ratios were 4:1–9:1. The comparatively low rod density and high cone proportion appear well adapted to the diurnal lifestyle of the agouti.
Stapeliads of Southern Africa and Madagascar. Peter V. Bruyns.
Authors: Gilbert M. G.
Published: March 2009

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A NEW SPECIES OF TINOSPORA (MENISPERMACEAE) FROM SOUTH INDIA
Authors: Udayan P. S. , Pradeep A. K. , Balachandran Indira
Published: March 2009

A new species of Tinospora (Menispermaceae), Tinospora formanii Udayan & Pradeep from the Western Ghats of Thrissur district, Kerala, South India, is described and illustrated.
NEW ORCHID RECORDS FROM ATLANTIC CENTRAL AFRICA
Authors: Droissart V. , Sonké B. , Simo M. , Stévart T.
Published: March 2009

Several papers dealing with Orchidaceae from Atlantic Central Africa have recently been published. However, orchid distributions in this area remain poorly known. Over the last decade, we have conducted an intensive fieldwork programme in Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. This has enabled us to collect 22 taxa that are new national records. Ten taxa are new records for Cameroon, eight for Equatorial Guinea and four for both countries. One of these taxa is also a new record from Nigeria. Fifteen taxa are endemic to the Lower Guinea area and six were previously known only from the type locality.
REVISION OF NEOTROPICAL CALYCOBOLUS AND PORANA (CONVOLVULACEAE)
Authors: Staples G. W. , Austin D. F.
Published: March 2009

The neotropical species of Calycobolus (Convolvulaceae) are revised. Three species are recognised. A fourth species is here recognised as belonging to the genus Porana. All four species are described, keys for identification are provided, selected characters are illustrated, distributions are mapped, and an index to numbered herbarium specimens examined is included to aid herbarium curation.
The aetiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis
Authors: Thomas EJ , Prentice A
Published: March 2009

It is 130 years since the first description of endometriosis and yet this enigmatic disease still continues to confound gynaecologists. In the last five years there has been evidence which suggests that endometriosis is a much more common finding in the pelvis than previously recognized and this has created conflict over the precise definition of the disease. Currently it is difficult for clinicians to be certain what constitutes endometriosis and what is the clinical and pathological significance of the visual diagnosis of the disease. This article will review the evidence about the pathological significance of the visual diagnosis of endometriosis. It will analyze the aetiological factors that predispose to the disease and evidence concerning its pathogenesis. Finally, it will discuss the evidence that points to a particular epithelium being the origin of endometriosis.
The functional significance of leucocytes in human reproduction
Authors: Barratt CLR , Kessopoulou E , Thompson LA , Tomlinson MJ , Cooke ID
Published: March 2009

There is now considerable evidence that leucocytes and their products have significant effects on the functional capacity of spermatozoa both in the male and female reproductive tract. Recent advances in the accurate detection of these leucocytes and their products using monoclonal antibodies and a parallel increase in the application of sophisticated sperm function tests has now made it possible to further determine the influence of the leucocytes on sperm function. It is therefore likely that this field of reproductive biology will be an area of considerable activity in the near future.