bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standing Up to Sugar Cubes: The Contest over Ethnic Identity in California's Fourth-Grade Mission Curriculum
Authors: Gutfreund Zevi
Published: September 2012

In the 1960s and 1970s, Native American and Chicano activists launched attacks against the romanticized depiction of the Spanish Past that was taught in California schools. Contests within and among the reform groups (and the eventual resolution found in today's educational standards) reveal a complex effort to shape children's perceptions of race and identity. By tracing the evolution of Native American and Latino activism on this subject and the responses of the state Board of Education, this article shows the symbolic significance of education debates in state politics.
From Neutra in Japan, 1930, to His European Audiences and Southern California Work
Authors: Lamprecht Barbara
Published: September 2012

Richard Neutra, a principle figure in modern architecture on the southern California, U.S., and international scenes, visited Japan in 1930. He observed traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary architecture and culture with the eyes of a creative designer of functional living space and a key theorist of Modernism. His subsequent work in southern California reflects ideas nurtured during his visit to Japan.
Writing the Script for Survival and Resurgence: RKO Studio and the Impact of the Great Depression, 1932-1933
Authors: Perkins Edwin J.
Published: September 2012

RKO Studio's business records, opened briefly to researchers in the 1970s, detailed the company's strategies for surviving and prospering during the worst years of the Great Depression, 1932-1933. They also revealed the workings of the Motion Picture Producers Association, the cartel linking the leading Hollywood studios. David O. Selznick and Benjamin Kahane engineered significant budget reductions while maintaining the quantity and improving the quality of movie output. Their hugely successful King Kong (1933), often given sole credit for RKO'S survival, was only one factor and serves to illustrate the studio's various strategies.
Comparative Analysis of Haemagglutination Inhibition Antibody Production Against Three Lentogenic Newcastle Disease Virus Vaccines in Broiler Chicks
Authors: Shil N C , Mahmud M S , Amin M M , Hossain M Anwar
Published: September 2012

The comparative analysis of haemagglutination Inhibitation (HI)-antibody production against three lentogenic  Newcastle disease virus vaccines BCRDV (F-strain), Izovac B1 Hitchner ® (B1 strain) and Cevac New L® (LaSota strain) was analyzed in broiler chicks. For this, three groups A, B and C, each consisted of 30 birds  were vaccinated with single dosage at day 9 and the other group of 10 birds was maintained as unvaccinated  control. Sera samples obtained randomly from 10 birds of each group on the day 17, 20, 28 and 32 and the HI  titers estimated. Maternally derived antibody persisted to a maximum level of 17 day and than declined to  minimum or none. The results revealed that vaccination of young birds with locally produced BCRDV by the  Department of Livestock Service elevated HI antibody at comparable level with that of commercially available  vaccine Izovac B1 Hitchner and Cevac New L®. The F value preformed with mean±SD of 17, 20, 28 and 32  days appeared non significant among the HI titers of the birds vaccinated with BCRDV, Izovac B1 Hitchner® (B1 strain) and Cevac New L®. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11808 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 41-43
Antibacterial Activity of Ethanol Extract of Betel Leaf (Piper betle L.) Against Some Food Borne Pathogens
Authors: Hoque M Mahfuzul , Rattila Shemona , Shishir M Asaduzzaman , Bari M L , Inatsu Y , Kawamoto S
Published: September 2012

The ethanol extract of Betel leaf (Piper betle L.), an indigenous climber plant of Bangladesh was screened for its antibacterial activity against some foodborne pathogens viz. Vibrio cholerae ATCC 6395, E. coli ATCC 25922,  E. coli O157:H7 NCTC 12049, Shigella dysenteriae-1 MJ-84 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Experimental  findings revealed that the ethanol extract of betel leaves potentially inhibit the growth of these foodborne  pathogens. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was ranged from 0.625% (w/v) to 0.75% (w/v). The  ethanol extract of betel leaf showed the highest MIC values for E. coli ATCC 25922 (0.625 mm), Vibrio cholera ATCC 6395 (0.625 mm), and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (0.625 mm). It was revealed that the antibacterial  activity was highest at around neutral pH and at moderate temperature. The highest temperature (100°C)  and the pH (10.0) treated ethanol extract showed a little less activity than the maximum activity at moderate  temperature and at neutral pH, suggesting that the ethanol extract of the betel leaf was to some extent high  temperature and high pH tolerant. The ethanol extract of betel leaf might have a potential application as  natural food preservative to improve the microbiological safety of the foods. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i2.11817 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 2, December 2011, pp 58-63
Production Bacteriosin by Rhizobia obtained from Root nodules of Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc. (Horse Gram)
Authors: Edulamudi Prabhavati , Masilamani Anthony Johnson Antony , Divi Venkata Ramana Sai Gopal , Konada Veera Mallaiah
Published: September 2012

Thirty two Rhizobium isolates obtained from the root nodules of Horse gram plants grown in 32 different soil samples collected from various regions in Andhra Pradesh, India. They were identified as rhizobia by nodulation test. These isolates were used to study the production of bacteriocins. All the isolates produced bacteriocins against the remaining isolates. The isolates HGR-4 and 9 showed maximum activity/inhibition  zone among all the isolates, and also found to be inhibiting more number of isolates than that of other bacteriocin producing isolates. The bacteriocin protein substance produced by the isolates HGR-4 and 9 showed a molecular weight of ~ 50 kDa by SDS-AGE and bacteriocin plasmids molecular weight is > 22 kb and     24 kb. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i2.11820 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 2, December 2011, pp 76-79
Detection of ipaH gene in Large Plasmid of Escherichia coli Isolated from Different Sources of Bangladesh
Authors: Akhter Fahmina , Fakruddin M , Azmuda Nafisa , Begum Anowara , Birkeland Nils Kare , SKhan Sirajul Islam , Akhter Humaira
Published: September 2012

Large plasmid (more than 100 MDa) plays a significant role in Escherichia coli virulence as many virulent genes including the ipaH are encoded by large plasmids. Characterization of such large plasmid of E. coli from different sources based on ipaH gene has not yet been reported with success and credible reproducibility in Bangladesh. Forty E. coli isolates of environmental, clinical, avian, and mammalian sources were examined to detect the presence of large plasmids. Among them, plasmids recovered from 32 isolates were found to range between 100 and 145 MDa in size. Antibiotic susceptibility pattern of the isolates against 17 different  antibiotics showed that most of them were resistant to more than 6 antibiotics and thus were designated multiple antibiotic resistant (MAR) strains. Out of 32 isolates, 10 were (3 clinical, 5 environmental, 1 avian and 1 mammalian source) found to possess a gene product of 423 bp size after PCR assay from plasmid DNA. Southern hybridization was carried out with ipaH probes and the results revealed the presence of band of correct size in both large plasmid DNA and in chromosomal DNA. Presence of the appropriate gene product in newly discharged environmental E. coli strains questions the credibility of using these bacteria as an indicator of water pollution in tropical countries like Bangladesh. The innovative approaches employed in this investigation regarding characterization of large plasmid based on the presence of ipaH gene in E. coli isolates from environmental, clinical, avian and mammalian sources opened up avenues for challenging research in future. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i2.11822 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 2, December 2011, pp 84-87
Performances of two commercially available Newcastle disease vaccines in Bangladesh: A case-control study
Authors: Kashem M A , Hashem M A , Kabir M H B , Uddin M I , Hasan B
Published: September 2012

The study was conducted to test the performances of two commercially available live vaccines named BCRDV1(VG/GA strain) and BCRDV2 (F-strain). A total of 90 day-old broiler birds were divided into three different  groups and the serum samples were collected at day 1, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35; mean±SD of Haemgglutination  Inhibition (HI) titres (log2) were found as 8±0.00, 7.2±0.89, 6.1±0.9, 7.1±0.75, 5.7±0.72, 4.1±0.68 and 8±0.00, 6.0±0.76, 4.8±0.81, 5.8±0.83, 4.9±0.86, 3.8±0.77 in group I and group II respectively, which was significant (P< 0.01). In control (group III) the mean±SD was found to be 8±0.00, 5.8±0.87, 4.9±0.69, 4.1±0.48, 3.0±0.56 and  <2±0 respectively. The titres of control group infer that the maternal antibody usually had a tendency to decline and may pose a risk of infection. In protection test, 100% mortality were found in control group (III) but in group I and group II the mortality of birds were 6.67% and 10%, respectively. The analysis of HI titres with the target to determine the performance of two vaccines revealed that BCRDV1 vaccinated groups was able to maintain significantly higher HI titres than BCRDV2 vaccinated group. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i2.11823 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 2, December 2011, pp 88-91
Ribosomal DNA distribution and a genus‐wide phylogeny reveal patterns of chromosomal evolution in Alstroemeria (Alstroemeriaceae)
Authors: Chacón Juliana , Sousa Aretuza , Baeza Carlos M. , Renner Susanne S.
Published: September 2012

• Premise of the study: Understanding the flexibility of monocot genomes requires a phylogenetic framework, which so far is available for few of the ca. 2800 genera. Here we use a molecular tree for the South American genus Alstroemeria to place karyological information, including fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) signals, in an explicit evolutionary context.

• Methods: From a phylogeny based on plastid, nuclear, and mitochondrial sequences for most species of Alstroemeria, we selected early‐branching (Chilean) and derived (Brazilian) species for which we obtained 18S‐25S and 5S rDNA FISH signals; we also analyzed chromosome numbers, 1C‐values, and telomere FISH signals (in two species).

• Key results: Chromosome counts for Alstroemeria cf. rupestris and A. pulchella confirm 2n = 16 as typical of the genus, which now has chromosomes counted for 29 of its 78 species. The rDNA sites are polymorphic both among and within species, and interstitial telomeric sites in Alstroemeria cf. rupestris suggest chromosome fusion.

• Conclusions: In spite of a constant chromosome number, closely related species of Alstroemeria differ drastically in their rDNA, indicating rapid increase, decrease, or translocations of these genes. Previously proposed Brazilian and Chilean karyotype groups are not natural, and the n = 8 chromosomes in Alstroemeria compared to n = 9 in its sister genus Bomarea may result from a Robertsonian fusion.
Robot-assisted Implantation Improves the Precision of Component Position in Minimally Invasive TKA
Authors: Kim Sang-Min , Park Youn-Soo , Ha Chul-Won , Lim Seung-Jae , Moon Young-Wan
Published: September 2012

Minimally invasive and robot-assisted procedures have potential advantages when used for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this cadaveric study was to examine whether robot-assisted minimally invasive procedures improve TKA alignment after modifying the robotic techniques and instruments.

Total knee arthroplasties were performed on 10 pairs of fresh cadaveric femora. Ten knees were replaced using the robot-assisted minimally invasive technique and 10 using the conventional minimally invasive technique. After prosthesis implantation, limb and prosthesis alignments were investigated by measuring mechanical axis deviation, femoral and tibial sagittal and coronal inclination, and femoral rotational alignment with 3-dimensional computed tomography scans. Postoperative alignment accuracy of the implanted prostheses was better in the robot-assisted minimally invasive TKA group than in the conventional minimally invasive TKA group as judged by the rotational alignment of the femoral component (0.7°±″.3° vs 3.6°±2.2°, respectively) and the tibial component sagittal angle (7.8°±1.1° vs 5.5°±3.6°, respectively). One sagittal inclination outlier for the tibial side existed in the robotic minimally invasive TKA group, and 2 outliers for the mechanical axis, 2 for the tibial side sagittal inclination, and 2 for the femoral rotational alignment existed in the conventional minimally invasive TKA group.

Higher implanted prostheses accuracy and fewer outliers in postoperative radiographic alignments can be attained with robot-assisted TKA. Minimally invasive TKA in combination with an improved robot-assisted technique is an alternative option to compensate for the shortcomings of conventional minimally invasive TKA.
Distal Ulna Hook Plate Fixation for Unstable Distal Ulna Fracture Associated With Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Lee Sang Ki , Kim Kap Jung , Park Ju Sang , Choy Won Sik
Published: September 2012

The significance of distal ulna fractures is often undermined, which can result in inadequate treatment compared with fractures of the radius, the ulna’s larger counterpart. However, little guidance exists in the current literature on how to manage distal ulna head or neck fractures and intra-articular ulna head fractures. Therefore, the purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcomes of distal ulna hook plate fixation for the treatment of an unstable distal ulna fracture associated with a distal radius fracture.

Twenty-five patients with unstable distal ulna fractures who underwent stable fixation for an associated distal radius fracture were included in the study. All patients achieved satisfactory reduction and bony union. Average final motion was as follows: wrist flexion, 72° (range, 60°–85°); extension, 69° (range, 65°–80°); pronation, 77° (range, 55°–95°); supination, 82° (range, 65°–90°); ulnar deviation, 35° (range, 15°–50°); and radial deviation, 24° (range, 10°–40°). Average postoperative grip strength was 28 kg (range, 22–30 kg) and was 91% (range, 71%–100%) in the cases in which the dominant hand was injured and 80% (range, 65%–100%) in the cases in which the nondominant hand was injured. Average postoperative modified Mayo wrist score and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 87 points (range, 65–100 points) and 14 points (range, 0–54 points), respectively. Chronic instability of the distal radioulnar joint was not encountered in any patient. Thus, the study demonstrated that distal ulna hook plate fixation for the treatment of unstable distal ulna fractures can achieve healing with good alignment, satisfactory function, and minimal transient morbidity.
Structural and Biomechanical Characteristics After Early Mobilization in an Achilles Tendon Rupture Model: Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment
Authors: Krapf Daniel , Kaipel Martin , Majewski Martin
Published: September 2012

Acute Achilles tendon ruptures are common sports injuries; however, treatment remains a clinical challenge. Studies show a superior effect of early mobilization and full weight bearing on tendon healing and clinical outcome; however, few data exist on structural and biomechanical characteristics in the early healing phase. This study investigated the histological and biomechanical characteristics of early mobilization and full weight bearing in an Achilles tendon rupture model. Eighty rats underwent dissection of a hindpaw Achilles tendon; 40 rats were treated conservatively and 40 underwent open repair of the transected Achilles tendon by suturing. Early mobilization and full weight bearing were allowed in both groups. At 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after tenotomy, tensile strength, stiffness, thickness, tissue characteristics (histological analysis), and length were determined. Dissected Achilles tendons healed in all animals during full weight-bearing early mobilization. One and 2 weeks after tenotomy, rats in the operative group showed increased tensile strength and stiffness compared with the nonoperative group. Repair-site diameters were increased at 1, 2, and 8 weeks after tenotomy. Tendon length was decreased in the operative group throughout observation, whereas the nonoperative group showed increased structural characteristics on the cellular level and a more homogeneous collagen distribution. Surgical treatment of dissected rat Achilles tendons showed superior biomechanical characteristics within the first 2 weeks. Conservative treatment resulted in superior histological findings but significant lengthening of the tendon in the early healing phase (weeks 1–8).
Bilateral Extensor Digitorum Brevis Manus
Authors: Froelich John M. , Bidgoli-Moghaddam Mahsa , Moran Steven L.
Published: September 2012

Dorsal wrist pain and swelling is commonly attributed to a dorsal wrist ganglion. However, based on the authors’ experience, a cautious surgeon should keep the uncommonly symptomatic diagnosis of an extensor digitorum brevis manus in their differential despite classic ganglion presentation and suggestive advanced imaging.

This article describes a case of a young patient who presented with bilateral symptomatic extensor digitorum brevis manus anomalies that required surgical intervention. An extensor digitorum brevis manus is present in 3% of the population in a classic anatomy study from Japan and is most commonly symptomatic with heavy activity and extremes of wrist extension. Anatomically, the extensor digitorum brevis manus is located in the fourth wrist compartment and most commonly inserts on the index finger extensor mechanism. Examination often reveals a spindle-shaped mass that is palpable distal to the extensor mechanism and moves with extensor tendon motion. Magnetic resonance imaging shows a typical dorsal mass distal to the common extensors with a similar signal as muscle with all image sequencing. Treatment includes activity alterations to relieve symptoms or surgical excision of the muscle belly for refractory cases with care taken to preserve the index extensor mechanism.
Evolving Compartment Syndrome Detected by Loss of Somatosensory- and Motor-evoked Potential Signals During Cervical Spine Surgery
Authors: Bronson Wesley H. , Forsh David , Qureshi Sheeraz A. , Deiner Stacie G. , Weisz Donald J. , Hecht Andrew C.
Published: September 2012

Neurologic injury is a rare but devastating complication of spinal surgery that can result in mild sensory to severe motor deficits. Surgeons increasingly use electrophysiological spinal cord function monitoring, including somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials, intraoperatively to provide information about spinal cord function, aid in surgical decision making, improve outcomes, and reduce complication rates. By providing real-time information about the dorsal and anterior motor column function, somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials signals allow surgeons to reverse noticeable changes and avoid devastating neurologic injuries. Recognizing changes in baseline signals in the setting of known risk factors enables surgeons to correct these risks.

This article describes a case in which somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials monitoring were lost in the setting of an impending right forearm compartment syndrome during 2-level anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case of spinal cord monitoring detecting an evolving compartment syndrome during cervical spine surgery. The early changes in signal intensity enabled the surgeon to search for a cause and remedy the situation by removing the infiltrated intravenous line. Without the observed changes in somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials, it is likely that the compartment syndrome may have progressed to the point of requiring fasciotomy to prevent lasting neuromuscular injury.

This article describes a new cause of changes in electrophysiological monitoring and further displays the usefulness of somatosensory- and motor-evoked potentials monitoring during even routine spinal surgery.
Marketing the “Tropical Playground”
Authors: Clery Tom Cairns
Published: September 2012

Miami’s marketers have a long and successful history of creating and recreating imagery that draws visitors towards the ‘magic city’ or the ‘tropical playground.’ This paper investigates Miami’s marketing from an historical perspective by examining the role and legacy of various discourses emanating from powerful city actors over the past century. Spatial analysis including spatial autocorrelation and Local Moran’s I are conducted to investigate further Miami’s geographical segregation. The findings suggest that unequal, segregating and exclusive discourses have become so normalized within Miami’s marketing and political structure that change is becoming increasingly difficult as attitudes institutionalize further. Using a discourse analysis set around a framework of social exclusion and adverse incorporation, and semi-structured interviews, this paper also examines the current spatial formation of the city with insights from leading figures in Miami’s marketing industry to suggest that the right to the city is still a distant dream for Miami’s other neighborhoods and populations.
Mobile Network Offloading
Authors: Katsigiannis Michail
Published: September 2012

The mobile data traffic growth and the high fraction of indoor-generated traffic push mobile operators to devise new deployment strategies such as mobile network offloading. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the energy consumption and the deployment cost, based on the demanded traffic level, for a joint macro-femtocell network which enables mobile network offloading in Helsinki Metropolitan Area by 2015. This deployment is compared to an optimized only macro cellular network. The study tries to resolve under what conditions, in terms of demanded traffic, deployment cost and energy consumption, a mobile operator should deploy femtocells. Assuming that only the new network infrastructure is installed by 2015, the results show that wide-to-local area offloading is beneficial for a mobile operator to handle the mobile data traffic growth, reduce the deployment costs and the energy consumption of the radio access network.
Spectrum Sensing in the Presence of RF Impairments in Cognitive Radio
Authors: Sharkasi Youssif Fawzi , McLernon Des , Ghogho Mounir
Published: September 2012

The spectrum detection performance of a matched filter (MF) in the presence of carrier frequency offset (CFO), phase noise (PN) and time offset is analyzed. Detection performance is derived theoretically and confirmed through simulation in the presence of CFO. The results have shown that in the presence of CFO, the MF may be outperformed by an energy detector (ED) over a range of CFO values. The authors propose three spectrum sensing techniques that are robust to CFO. The first technique is called the block-coherent detector (BLCD) with a suboptimal number of blocks (N/2). The second technique is called second-order matched filter-I (SOMF-I), the detection performance of which has been studied both theoretically and confirmed through simulation. The last technique is named the second-order matched filter-II (SOMF-II) and is a modified version of (SOMF-I) but with a superior performance. The presence of PN and time offset and their effect on the detection performance is then examined via simulation. The results have shown that PN has not affected the detection performance of SOMF-I and has only a slight effect on the MF performance. But the time offset has seriously degrades the MF, ED and SOMF-I. Also, the results have shown that the performance of SOMF-I is much less affected by noise uncertainty compared to the ED. Finally, the throughput of SOMF-I has been studied in the presence of CFO and the results have shown that its performance is only marginally degraded compared to the MF.
Enabling Query Technologies for the Semantic Sensor Web
Authors: Calbimonte Jean-Paul , Jeung Hoyoung , Corcho Oscar , Aberer Karl
Published: September 2012

Sensor networks are increasingly being deployed in the environment for many different purposes. The observations that they produce are made available with heterogeneous schemas, vocabularies and data formats, making it difficult to share and reuse this data, for other purposes than those for which they were originally set up. The authors propose an ontology-based approach for providing data access and query capabilities to streaming data sources, allowing users to express their needs at a conceptual level, independent of implementation and language-specific details. In this article, the authors describe the theoretical foundations and technologies that enable exposing semantically enriched sensor metadata, and querying sensor observations through SPARQL extensions, using query rewriting and data translation techniques according to mapping languages, and managing both pull and push delivery modes.
Clinical features of recurrent stroke after intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Nakase Taizen , Yoshioka Shotaroh , Sasaki Masahiro , Suzuki Akifumi
Published: September 2012

There have been many reports about the prognosis and risk factors of stroke recurrence following brain infarction (BI). However, little is known about the stroke recurrence after primary intracerebral hemorrhage (PICH). Therefore, we explored the recurrent stroke patients after initial PICH retrospectively, to reveal the critical factors of stroke recurrence. Acute BI (n=4013) and acute PICH patients (n=1067) admitted to the hospital between April 2000 and March 2009 were consecutively screened. PICH patients with a history of ICH and BI patients with a history of ICH were then classified into the ICH-ICH group (n=64, age 70.8±9.5 years) and ICH-BI group (n=52, age 72.8±9.7years), respectively. ICH lesions were categorized into ganglionic and lober types according to the brain magnetic resonance imaging. Subtypes of BI were classified into cardioembolism, large-artery atherosclerosis, small-artery occlusion and others. There was no difference in incidence of risk factors between ICH-ICH and ICH-BI groups. Distribution of initial PICH lesions was significantly abun- dant in the lobar type in the ICH-ICH group (P<0.01) and in ganglionic type in the ICH-BI group (P<0.02). Age of onset was significantly older in recurrent lobar ICH compared with recurrent ganglionic ICH (P<0.01: 73.6±10.0 and 59.1±9.0 years, respectively). In conclusion, ganglionic ICH patients may have a chance of recurrent stroke in both brain infarction and ganglionic ICH, suggesting the participation of atherosclerosis in intracranial arteries. Lobar ICH patients were older and prone to recurrent lobar ICH, suggesting the participation of cerebral amyloid angiopathy as a risk of stroke recurrence.
Recurrent Leiomyomatosis Peritonealis Disseminata: Sonographic and Laparoscopic Correlation
Authors: Honemeyer Ulrich , Montgomery Lisa , Appleton Kallie , Tullius Thomas G , Ross Jason R , Barnard Jami J
Published: September 2012

We present a 39-year-old G0P0 with history of infertility treatment-caused ovarian hyperstimulation and uterine fibroids, who was found to have a rare pathological presentation. Peritoneal lesions were identified during laparoscopic treatment for this patient's fibroids. Histological evaluation of these lesions revealed leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD), also known as disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis. While LPD can often be confused for metastatic leiomyosarcoma due to the histological presence of fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, smooth muscle, collagen, and spindle cell appearance, cases of LPD are generally benign, and present no need for therapy in asymptomatic cases. We present a discussion based on the clinical and sonographic presentation of LPD, its pathophysiology, treatment options and prognosis. A question set has been designed to reinforce comprehension of this presentation and associated topics for health care professionals.

How to cite this article

Honemeyer U, Ross JR, Barnard JJ, Appleton K, Tullius TG Jr, Montgomery L, Plavsic SK. Recurrent Leiomyomatosis Peritonealis Disseminata: Sonographic and Laparoscopic Correlation. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012;6(3):327-332.
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Prospective Study Analyzing Various Nonsurgical Treatment Modalities for LPR
Authors: Mattoo Owais , Yousuf Aamir , Mir Anees , Muzaffar Rahil , Ahmad Rauf , Charag Aakib Hamid
Published: September 2012

Objective

To compare the outcomes of various medical treatment modalities for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Study design

Prospective study design.

Materials and methods

One-hundred and fifty patients were divided into three groups (A, B, C) based on the mode of intervention used for the control of LPR. Each study group enrolled 50 patients using random tables.

• Group A: These patients were put on a twice daily dosage of esomeprazole (20 mg bd) and domeperidone (10 mg bd) for 4 months

• Group B: These patients were put on bd dosage of esomeprazole (20 mg) and domeperidone (10 mg) and also received counseling for dietary and lifestyle changes. The duration of treatment was for 4 months.

• Group C: These patients received, in addition to above, 10 mg of amitriptyline (tricyclic antidepressant) bid, again for 4 months.

Results

The success achieved in controlling LPR was defined as greater than 50% improvement in baseline symptoms. The success achieved in group A was 46%, in group B was 54% and in group C was 40%.

The relative change in reflux symptom index (RSI) over any given period of time was significantly higher than the relative change in reflux finding score (RFS). The relative change in RSI over first month was 30.99%, which is significantly higher than the relative change of RFS (6.39%) over the same period.

The mean RSI scores during 4 months of treatment fell from 20.67 to 8.9 (p < 0.01) in group A, from 23.3 to 8.6 (p < 0.01) and from 21.3 to 10.8 (p < 0.05) in group C.

The mean RFS during 4 months fell from 15 to 6.5 (p < 0.05) in group A, from 16 to 6.4 (p < 0.05) and from 15 to 6.4 (p < 0.05) in group C.

Conclusion

• All the three interventions had a statistically significant impact on the signs and symptoms of LPR.

• However, higher success rates were achieved in group B where patients were put on a bid dosage esomeprazole and domeperidone nad counseled for lifestyle and dietary changes. Paradoxically, success rates achieved in group C was lower than other groups, possibly because of the anticholinergic effects of amitriptyline causing dry mouth and dry throat.

• The symptomatic improvement was seen much earlier than the improvement in laryngoscopic findings. This was evidenced by the fact that relative change in RSI was much higher than the relative change of RFS over a given period of time.

• If diagnosed with enough surety and certainty, patients of LPR do not need any antidepressant medications as these medications may not have any role in the treatment of same and may, however, worsen the condition owing to their anticholinergic side effects.

How to cite this article

Mattoo O, Muzaffar R, Mir A, Yousuf A Charag AH, Ahmad R. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Prospective Study Analyzing Various Nonsurgical Treatment Modalities for LPR. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2012;2(1):5-8.
Vocal Cord Leukoplakia: Characteristics and Pathological Significance
Authors: Kizil Yusuf , Aydil Utku , Yilmaz Metin , Ekinci Özgür , Güzeldir Osman Tugrul , Savas Veysel Akif , Köybasioglu Ahmet
Published: September 2012

Leukoplakia is a nonspecific clinical term used to describe a mucosal white patch or plaque that cannot be easily scraped off. Leukoplakia of vocal cord represents a chronic inflammation or exposure to irritants which can also stimulate development of precancerous conditions or cancer. This study aimed to determine clinical and histopathological characteristics of vocal cord leukoplakia. A total of 66 patients were included. All patients with a clinical diagnosis of vocal cord leukoplakia who had undergone direct laryngoscopic examination and biopsy were analyzed retrospectively. The most common pathological finding was mild dysplasia (25.8%). Cancer was detected in 18.2% of cases. Malignancy was more frequent in cases with unilateral vocal cord involvement (23.4%) when compared with bilateral cases (5.2%) and in patients with localized lesions (19.3%) when compared with lesions involving whole cord (11.1%), but the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Smoking history was found to be related with cancer diagnosis (p < 0.001). In the presence of a serious smoking history, there is high-risk for malignancy and leukoplakia should be sampled immediately for histopathological examination. Although statistically not proven, cancer rates are higher in more localized and unilateral lesions.

How to cite this article

Kizil Y, Aydil U, Yilmaz M, Ekinci Ö, Güzeldir OT, Savas VA, Köybasioglu A. Vocal Cord Leukoplakia: Characteristics and Pathological Significance. Int J Phonosurg Laryngol 2012;2(1):9-13.
Influence of transport and mixing in autumn on stratospheric ozone variability over the Arctic in early winter
Authors: Blessmann D. , Wohltmann I. , Rex M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Early winter ozone mixing ratios in the Arctic middle stratosphere show an interannual variability of about 10%. We show that ozone variability in early January is caused by dynamical processes during Arctic polar vortex formation in autumn (September to December). Observational data from satellites and ozone sondes are used in conjunction with simulations of the chemistry and transport model ATLAS to examine the relationship between the meridional and vertical origin of air enclosed in the polar vortex and its ozone amount. For this, we use a set of artificial model tracers to deduce the origin of the air masses in the vortex in January in latitude and altitude in September. High vortex mean ozone mixing ratios are correlated with a high fraction of air from low latitudes enclosed in the vortex and a high fraction of air that experienced small net subsidence (in a Lagrangian sense). As a measure for the strength of the Brewer-Dobson circulation and meridional mixing in autumn, we use the Eliassen-Palm flux through the mid-latitude tropopause averaged from September to November. In the lower stratosphere, this quantity correlates well with the origin of air enclosed in the vortex and reasonably well with the ozone amount in early winter.
Aerosol cloud activation in summer and winter at puy-de-Dôme high altitude site in France
Authors: Asmi E. , Freney E. , Hervo M. , Picard D. , Rose C. , Colomb A. , Sellegri K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) size distributions and numbers were measured for the first time at Puy-de-Dôme high altitude (1465 m a.s.l) site in Central France. Majority of the measurements were done at constant supersaturation (SS) of 0.24%, which was also deduced to be representative of the typical in-cloud SS at the site. CCN numbers during summer ranged from about 200 up to 2000 cm−3 and during winter from 50 up to 3000 cm−3. Variability of CCN number was explained by both particle chemistry and size distribution variability. The higher CCN concentrations were measured in continental, in contrast to marine, air masses. Aerosol CCN activity was described with a single hygroscopicity parameter κ. Range of this parameter was 0.29 ± 0.13 in summer and 0.43 ± 0.19 in winter. When calculated using SS of 0.51% during summer, κ of 0.22 ± 0.07 was obtained. The decrease with increasing SS is likely explained by the particle size dependent chemistry with smaller particles containing higher amounts of freshly emitted organic species. Higher κ values during winter were for the most part explained by the observed aged organics (analysed from organic m/z 44 ratio) rather than from aerosol organic to inorganic volume fraction. The obtained κ values also fit well within the range of previously proposed global continental κ of 0.27 ± 0.21. During winter, the smallest κ values and the highest organic fractions were measured in marine air masses. CCN closure using bulk AMS chemistry led to positive bias of 5% and 2% in winter and summer, respectively. This is suspected to stem from size dependent aerosol organic fraction, which is underestimated by using AMS bulk mass composition. Finally, the results were combined with size distributions measured from interstitial and whole air inlets to obtain activated droplet size distributions. Cloud droplet number concentrations were shown to increase with accumulation mode particle number, while the real in-cloud SS correspondingly decreased. These results provide evidence on the effects of aerosol particles on maximum cloud supersaturations. Further work with detailed characterisation of cloud properties is proposed in order to provide more quantitative estimates on aerosol effects on clouds.
Water vapor isotopologues retrievals from high resolution GOSAT short-wave infrared spectra
Authors: Frankenberg C. , Wunch D. , Toon G. , Risi C. , Scheepmaker R. , Lee J.-E. , Wennberg P. , Worden J.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Remote sensing of the isotopic composition of water vapor can provide valuable information on the hydrological cycle. Here, we demonstrate feasibility of retrievals of the relative abundance of HDO (the HDO/H2O ratio) from the Japanese GOSAT satellite. For this purpose, we use high spectral resolution nadir radiances around 6400 cm−1 (1.56 μm) to retrieve vertical column amounts of H2O and HDO. Retrievals of H2O correlate well with ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) integrated profiles (r2 = 0.96). Typical precision errors in the retrieved column averaged deuterium depletion (δD) are 20–40‰. We validate δD against a TCCON (Total Carbon Column Observing Network) ground-based station in Lamont, Oklahoma. Using retrievals in very dry areas over Antarctica, we detect a small systematic offset in retrieved H2O and HDO column amounts and take this into account for a bias-correction of δD. Monthly averages of δD in the June 2009 to September 2011 time-frame are well correlated with TCCON (r2 = 0.79) and exhibit a slope of 0.98 (1.23 if not bias corrected). We also compare seasonal averages on the global scale with results from the SCIAMACHY instrument in the 2003–2005 timeframe. Despite the lack of temporal overlap, seasonal averages in general agree well, with spatial correlations (r2) ranging from 0.62 in September through November to 0.83 in June through August. However, we observe higher variability in GOSAT δD, indicated by fitted slopes between 1.2 and 1.46. The discrepancies are likely related to differences in vertical sensitivities but warrant further validation of both GOSAT and SCIAMACHY and an extension of the validation dataset.
The Medieval Climate Anomaly and the Little Ice Age in the Eastern Ecuadorian Andes
Authors: Ledru M.-P. , Jomelli V. , Samaniego P. , Vuille M. , Hidalgo S. , Herrera M. , Ceron C.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. To better characterize the climate variability of the last millennium in the high Andes, we analysed the pollen content of a 1100-yr-old sediment core collected in a bog located at 3800 m a.s.l. in the páramo in the Eastern Cordillera in Ecuador. An upslope convective index based on the ratio between cloud transported pollen from the andean forest to the bog (T) and Poaceae pollen frequencies, related to the edaphic moisture of the páramo (P), was defined to distinguish the atmospheric moisture from the soil moisture content of the páramo. Results showed that between 900 AD and 1230 AD, the Medieval Climate Anomaly interval was warm and moist with high T/P index linked to a high ENSO variability and a weak South American Summer Monsoon (SASM) activity. Between 1230 and 1650 AD, a dry climate prevailed characterized by an abrupt decrease in the T/P index related to lower ENSO variability with significant impact on the floristic composition of the páramo. During the Little Ice Age, two phases were observed, first a wet phase between 1650 and 1750 AD linked to low ENSO variability in the Pacific and warm south equatorial Atlantic SSTs favored the return of a wet páramo, and a cold and dry phase between 1750 and 1810 AD associated with low ENSO variability and weak SASM activity resulting in drying of the páramo. The Current Warm Period marks the beginning of a climate characterized by high convective activity, the highest in the last millennium, and weaker SASM activity modifying the water stock of the páramo. Our results show that the páramo is progressively loosing its capacity for water storage and that the variability of both tropical Pacific and Atlantic SSTs matters for Andean climate patterns although many teleconnection mechanisms are still poorly understood.
A novel approach to analysing the regimes of temporary streams in relation to their controls on the composition and structure of aquatic biota
Authors: Gallart F. , Prat N. , García-Roger E. M. , Latron J. , Rieradevall M. , Llorens P. , Barberá G. G. , Brito D. , De Girolamo A. M. , Lo Porto A. , Buffagni A. , Erba S. , Neves R. , Nikolaidis N. P. , Perrin J. L. , Querner E. P. , Quiñonero J. M. , Tournoud M. G. , Tzoraki O. , Skoulikidis N. , Gómez R. , Sánchez-Montoya M. M. , Froebrich J.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Temporary streams are those water courses that undergo the recurrent cessation of flow or the complete drying of their channel. The structure and composition of biological communities in temporary stream reaches are strongly dependent on the temporal changes of the aquatic habitats determined by the hydrological conditions. Therefore, the structural and functional characteristics of aquatic fauna to assess the ecological quality of a temporary stream reach cannot be used without taking into account the controls imposed by the hydrological regime. This paper develops methods for analysing temporary streams' aquatic regimes, based on the definition of six aquatic states that summarize the transient sets of mesohabitats occurring on a given reach at a particular moment, depending on the hydrological conditions: Hyperrheic, Eurheic, Oligorheic, Arheic, Hyporheic and Edaphic. When the hydrological conditions lead to a change in the aquatic state, the structure and composition of the aquatic community changes according to the new set of available habitats. We used the water discharge records from gauging stations or simulations with rainfall-runoff models to infer the temporal patterns of occurrence of these states in the Aquatic States Frequency Graph we developed. The visual analysis of this graph is complemented by the development of two metrics which describe the permanence of flow and the seasonal predictability of zero flow periods. Finally, a classification of temporary streams in four aquatic regimes in terms of their influence over the development of aquatic life is updated from the existing classifications, with stream aquatic regimes defined as Permanent, Temporary-pools, Temporary-dry and Episodic. While aquatic regimes describe the long-term overall variability of the hydrological conditions of the river section and have been used for many years by hydrologists and ecologists, aquatic states describe the availability of mesohabitats in given periods that determine the presence of different biotic assemblages. This novel concept links hydrological and ecological conditions in a unique way. All these methods were implemented with data from eight temporary streams around the Mediterranean within the MIRAGE project. Their application was a precondition to assessing the ecological quality of these streams.
Fire cue effects on seed germination of six species of northwestern Patagonian grasslands
Authors: Gonzalez S. L. , Ghermandi L.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Postfire recruitment of seedlings has been attributed to a stimulation of germination by fire-related cues. The germination response to heat shock (80 °C – 5 min), smoke (60 min), the combination of both factors and no heat no smoke (control) was studied in six native species (two dominant grasses, two dominant shrubs and two annual fugitive herbs) of northwestern Patagonian grasslands. Seeds of the grasses Festuca pallescens and Stipa speciosa and the shrub Senecio bracteolatus (Asteraceae) germinated when they were exposed to heat shock, whereas seeds of the other shrub, Mulinum spinosum (Apiaceae), were killed by this fire cue. In grasses, probably the glume of caryopsis protected embryos from heat. Possibly, the seed size could explain the different responses of the two shrubs. Heat combined with smoke reduced seed germination for S. speciosa and S. bracteolatus. The heat could have scarified seeds and the longer exposure to smoke could have been toxic for embryos. The same treatment increased germination of the annual fugitive herb Boopis gracilis (Calyceraceae). We concluded that fire differentially affects the seedling recruitment of the studied species in the northwestern Patagonian grasslands.
Market Reaction To IFRS: Evidence from the Athens Stock Exchange
Authors: Maggina Anastasia
Published: September 2012

The capital market effects of IAS/IFRS have been examined in the international literature and have indicated taht the effects are significant.In the contrary,evidence drawn from the Athens Stock Exchange indicates that there is no effect of IAS/IFRS on stock prices and returns.The point was whether mandatory adoption of AS/IFRS could guarrantee a value-relevant accounting information.Restricted to a country with poor institutional factors affecting teh preparers'financial reporting incentives,the empirical findings are justified.On the other hand,the transition from a tax-driven accounting system which was characterized by a stakeholder(debt-holder) orientation to a shareholder oriented(and independent from tax reporting considerations) accounting system seems to be ineffective up to date.
Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Joint Infections
Authors: Borens Olivier , Corvec Stéphane , Trampuz Andrej
Published: September 2012

Advances in implant design, surgical technique, peri-operative antimicrobial prophylaxis and laminar airflow operating room environment have made total joint arthroplasty one of the most successful surgical procedures of all times. Orthopaedic implants, however, remain prone to microbial contamination resulting in persistent risk of implant-associated infection. Treatment of infections associated with orthopaedic devices usually requires appropriate surgical intervention combined with a prolonged antimicrobial therapy. The choice of the best possible treatment regimen depends on duration and pathogenesis of infection, stability of the implant, antimicrobial susceptibility of the pathogen and condition of the surrounding soft tissue. In addition towell known diagnostic procedures new promising tools for rapid and correct microbial diagnosis are being developed as correct diagnosis of the responsible micro-organism and this is paramount for successful treatment of prosthetic joint infection.