bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Competitiveness of Rail Transport on Example of Connection Among Regional Capitals in Czechia
Authors: Chmelík Jakub , Květoň Viktor , Marada Miroslav
Published: May 2010

Evaluation of Competitiveness of Rail Transport on Example of Connection Among Regional Capitals in Czechia

The article is focused on evaluating the significance of rail passenger transport in transport contacts among regional capitals in Czechia representing the most important centres in the settlement hierarchy. The review of the particular connections works with the values of the year 2007 and is based on the relationship between supply and demand for rail passenger traffic. The evaluation is based on the number of rail links within the working day, while assuming that the supply is influenced by the location of the centre in the transport network and its position in the settlement hierarchy. Real demand data represent the number of tickets sold by the Czech Railways. Theoretical size of the interaction is obtained by application of the gravity model. Based on the final evaluation of indicators of supply and demand for rail traffic among regional capitals and their interactions, relations are described where demand is substantially below, respectively beyond the level of real supply and theoretical interaction, which is based on the importance of centres and their accessibility of the railway transport in time. In conclusion, the opportunities for the development of infrastructure in the selected connection in relation to transport planning are outlined, using the obtained results.
Achilles' Heels of Health Care Systems
Authors: Mertl Jan
Published: May 2010

Achilles' Heels of Health Care Systems

The aim of this article is to research the organization of health care systems and their typical failures in relationship with the need for health care. It is based on extensive theoretical background from economics and social policy, where the concepts used have already been defined. It emphasizes the differences between public and private insurance, and the various models of health care. It shows waiting lists, deficits and not realized health care as inevitable attributes of particular model. While based theoretically, it pays attention to empirical evidence in countries that are the most similar to their theoretical incarnation, e. g. the British model of publicly financed government-owned health care facilities, German model of publicly financed private providers and the American model of privately financed private providers. Finally it discusses the question of convergence of health care systems and the possible way of solving the issues described.
Industrial Parks - History, Present and its Influence to the Employment
Authors: Vidová Jarmila
Published: May 2010

Industrial Parks - History, Present and its Influence to the Employment

The term industrial park is currently a very frequently used. One of the conditions of their development is a positive trend of capital movement and correct allocation of capital in new conditions of Slovak and world economy. In current post-industrial stage of development, industrial parks grow in quality in comparison of parks built in the past when all the activities of product building were allocated were concentrated into one single place. The new generation of industrial parks is characteristic by producing just one product or completion of final goods from components. The present day development in Slovakia confirms that it is necessary to support creation of industrial parks because it has a positive influence to activities supporting research and development and increasing of employment.
Feasibility of dynamic MR-hysterosalpingography for the diagnostic work-up of infertile women
Authors: Winter Leopold , Glücker Thomas , Steimann Sabine , Fröhlich Johannes M. , Steinbrich Wolfgang , De Geyter Christian , Pegios Wassilios
Published: May 2010

Background: Tubal disturbances often contribute to infertility. Conventional hysterosalpingography (HSG) is considered as standard in the assessment of the patency of the fallopian tubes, but requires ionizing radiation and is restricted to the imaging of endoluminal structures.

Purpose: To evaluate dynamic magnetic resonance-HSG (dMR-HSG) in the diagnostic work-up in patients with infertility.

Material and Methods: Thirty-seven consecutive infertile women underwent dMR-HSG: 20 ml of gadolinium-polyvidone solution (18.4 mM Dotarem 1:20 with polyvidone) were injected intracervically through a 5-Charriere balloon catheter while acquiring five consecutive flash-3D T1-weighted MR sequences with fat saturation. Two experienced readers assessed image quality and anatomic–pathologic correlations prospectively. The relevance of results was evaluated in the clinical context of each patient. Patient comfort was evaluated with a standardized questionnaire.

Results: dMR-HSG was successfully completed in 33/37 patient with an average study time of 45 min. In 4 of 37 patients the catheter became dislodged during the examination, resulting in two complete diagnostic failures. Failure in another two patients was due to preliminary termination because of excessive pain and discomfort during the application of the contrast solution. The uterine cavity was completely visualized and bilateral fallopian tube patency was confirmed by dMR-HSG in 27 of 33 patients. Bilateral tubal occlusion was diagnosed in one of the remaining six patients and was confirmed by laparoscopy. Successful selective tubal catheterization was performed in one additional patient with unilateral and one patient with bilateral fallopian tube occlusion. In three cases, the catheter became dislocated at the end of the examination without demonstration of tubal patency. Since all three patients refused diagnostic laparoscopy and conventional HSG, possible bilateral occlusions of the fallopian tubes could not be further assessed.

Conclusion: dMR-HSG with cervical cannulation and intracavitary gadolinium injection is feasible and allows assessment of the uterus, the fallopian tubes, and extra-uterine pelvic structures, while avoiding all ionizing radiation in infertile women aiming at pregnancy.
Function and Strength Following Gastrocnemius Recession for Isolated Gastrocnemius Contracture
Authors: Chimera Nicole J. , Castro Michael , Manal Kurt
Published: May 2010

Background: Isolated gastrocnemius contracture (IGC), which limits ankle dorsiflexion with full knee extension, can affect function and quality of life. Gastrocnemius recession is a treatment option for IGC when conservative treatment fails. The goal of this study was to assess range of motion, function, and plantarflexion strength pre- and 3-months post-gastrocnemius recession for subjects with IGC. Materials and Methods: Ankle range of motion, function, and plantarflexion strength in seven legs (four subjects), clinically diagnosed with IGC, before and after surgery were compared to matched control subjects to elucidate pre- and post-surgical intervention differences. All subjects with IGC were also diagnosed with plantar fasciitis with one leg having an additional diagnosis of metatarsalgia. Results: Subjects with IGC had significant post surgical improvements at 3 months after surgery in dorsiflexion range of motion ( p = 0.016), function ( p = 0.016) and isokinetic plantarflexion strength ( p = 0.018). Conclusions: Surgical recession enhanced range of motion and self reported function while not inducing any detrimental effects to plantarflexion strength at a 3-month followup. Post-surgically IGC subjects were more similar to healthy controls.

Level of Evidence: III, Case Control Series
Safety of Ankle Trans-Syndesmotic Fixation
Authors: Fanter Nathan J. , Inouye Sandra E. , McBryde Angus M.
Published: May 2010

Background: Ankle syndesmosis fixation is often employed with the utilization of many variable methods and implants. Complications secondary to trans-syndesmotic fixation have been described, yet the proximity of a single trans-syndesmotic screw to the perforating branch of the peroneal artery (PBPA) has not. Materials and Methods: Sixteen cadaveric legs received a single trans-syndesmotic screw using standard AO technique. The PBPA was identified and the following distances were measured using photographic images and morphometric software: the tip of lateral malleolus to the PBPA, the tibial plafond to the PBPA, tip of lateral malleolus to the screw, and the PBPA to the screw. Average distances were calculated and statistically compared. Results: The location of the trans-syndesmotic screw inserted 2 cm proximal to the tibial plafond was on average less than 1.3 cm proximal to the PBPA. In six out of the 16 specimens, the screw was less than 1 cm from the PBPA. In one specimen, the screw came within 0.22 cm of the PBPA. Conclusion/Clinical Relevance: The placement of trans-syndesmotic fixation places the PBPA at risk. In order to avoid injury to the PBPA with trans-syndesmotic fixation, fixation should be avoided 2.3 to 4.1 cm proximal to the tibial plafond, 4.5 to 6.2 cm proximal to the tip of the lateral malleolus in females and 2.8 to 5.9 cm proximal to the tibial plafond or 5.1 to 7.2 cm proximal to the tip of the lateral malleolus in males.
Technique Tip: A New Technique for Harvest of the Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon
Authors: Murphy Randall L. , Womack Jay W. , Anderson J. Thomas
Published: May 2010

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Noise induced hearing loss among the textile industry workers
Authors: Haider Md Yusuf , Taous Ahmmad , Rahim Manjur , Huq AHM Zahurul , Abdullah M
Published: May 2010

Noise is one of the common physical environmental hazard in the workplace. A study was carried out in a textile industry at Gazipur from July 2004 to December 2004 to find out the prevalence, types and severity of hearing loss among the workers. The sample size was 97 and the total number of workers was 1900. Out of 97 sample, 26 workers were having noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). The incidence of NIHL was 20.59% in workers aged less than 35 years and 41.38%. in workers aged above 35 years Among the departments of factory, highest noise level was in generator department (96-100 dB). In generator department, 46.67% workers had the hearing loss. Overall, the prevalence of NIHL among textile workers of the study place was 33.46%. Key words: Noise, NIHL, industrial workers.DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v14i2.3279 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2008; 14(2) : 39-45
A comparative study of elective and emergency tracheostomy
Authors: Choudhury A Allam , Sultana Tuhin , Joarder Md Abul Hasnat , Tarafder Kamrul Hassan
Published: May 2010

This is a cross sectional study done in I.C.U & Dept. of otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, B.S.M.M.U, Dhaka and Dhaka Medical College Hospital during the period of 1st March, 2003 to 30th August, 2003. 60 cases of tracheostomies, were included in this study, among them 30 cases of elective tracheostomies and 30 cases of emergency tracheostomies. In this study mean age of elective tracheostomy was 40.46 years & mean age of emergency tracheostomy was 50.50 years. Here Male was predominant both in elective (M:F= 6.5:1) and emergency tracheostomy (9:1). The common indications of elective tracheostomy were ICSOL (26.67%) & Head injury (26.67%) where as commonest indication of emergency tracheostomy was laryngeal carcinoma (53.33%). The frequency of complication for elective tracheostomy was 9.99% and emergency tracheostomy 33.35%. Here complications were 3.33 times more common in cases of emergency tracheostomy then elective tracheostomy. Key-words: Tracheostomy, elective and emergency.  DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v14i2.3282 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2008; 14(2) : 57-62
Role of Fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of Cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: Bhuiyan Md Arif Hossain , Fakir Md Abu Yusuf , Hossain ABM Tofazzal , Huq AHM Zahurul , Gupta Sanjeev
Published: May 2010

Objective: A study was carried out to know the overall prevalence of various causes responsible for cervical lymphadenopathy of more than 3 weeks duration. FNAC has been evaluated as a diagnostic tool in our clinical set up. We aimed to present 110 cases which we treated in our center within last 3½ years. Methods: A retrospective study has been carried out from June 2005 to December 2008 in the department of Otolaryngology and Head-Neck Surgery at Apollo Hospitals Dhaka. All patients presented with cervical lymphadenopathy of more than 3 weeks duration. FNAC has been done for all suspected cases. CT neck has been done in 4 cases for deep jugular nodes. 55 patients underwent biopsy as FNAC report was non-specific lymphadenitis. For three cases we have done frozen section biopsy. Preoperative workup with routine blood tests, Xray chest and tuberculin tests have been carried out for all cases. Results: Out of 110 FNAC of cervical lymphadenopathy - 55 were non-specific lymphadenitis, 32 were tuberculosis, 12 were metastatic (with 2 occult primary), 6 were lymphomas(Immunocytochemistry proved ) and 5 were abscess. All 55 non-specific lymphadenopathy cases (FNAC report) underwent lymph node biopsy.5 cases were consistent with tuberculosis , 1 was lymphoma and rest were reactive . For 3 cases frozen section biopsy have been done. One was consistent with granulomatous disease and two cases were diagnosed as lymphoid hyperplasia. Both the lymphoid hyperplasia cases have been diagnosed as Castleman's disease after histopathology report. Conclusion: The study concluded the fact that the non-specific infection is the most common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy followed by tuberculosis .Supplemented with routine laboratory investigations, FNAC give very important clue to the physicians among patients presented with cervical lymphadenopathy. Key Words: Lymphadenopathy, lymphoid hyperplasia, tuberculosis, lymphoma, castleman's disease.  DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v14i2.3283 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2008; 14(2) : 63-65
Allergic rhinitis, asthma and atopic diseases: Bangladesh perspective
Authors: Chowdhury M Alamgir , Kabir ARM Lutful , Alam Md Monjurul
Published: May 2010

Bangladesh is a developing country with 150 million population. About 20 to 25% of population is suffering from different types of allergic disorder. Few studies were carried out on asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic conditions in Bangladesh. There are many indoor, outdoor, occupational and food allergens that trigger allergy. More over many pollutants, allergens are still unidentified in the poor and developing countries due to fund constrains for research activities. In addition to multiple known and unknown allergens, over population, un-hygienic living, poverty, lack of education and awareness, negligence to take treatment leads to increasing incidence of these diseases. Diagnostic facilities are yet depending on history and clinical examination for majority of our patients. Skin prick tests and IgE estimation are not available outside capital Dhaka as well as these are expensive too. Majority of our population can't afford them. Asthma and allergies are affecting the quality of life that has impact on national economy and development a lot. Treatment modalities and drugs available with the costs in our country are discussed. More evidence based studies and dissemination of ARIA, WHO and other guidelines to health professionals will be needed to improve the situation. Key words: Asthma, Allergic Rhinitis, Atopic DermatitisDOI: 10.3329/bjo.v14i2.3284 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2008; 14(2) : 66-70
CO2 laser tonsillectomy: A comparison with conventional technique
Authors: Hossain ABM Tofazzal , Bhuyan Md Arif Hossain , Afroza Shahnaz , Kabir Shaila , Huq AHM Zahurul
Published: May 2010

Objective: To define the advantages and disadvantages of CO2 laser tonsillectomy compared with conventional method. Study design: Retrospective review. Setting: Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Apollo Hospitals Dhaka. Materials and Methods: This study included fifty two patients with tonsillectomies from October 2007 to May 2008. The patients were diagnosed with history and clinical examination. Preoperative investigations have been done for general anaesthesia. Patients were intubated with laser reinforced endotracheal tube and fire precautions were taken. Laser tonsillectomy has been avoided below 10 years in our centre. 52 patients aged 10-35 years underwent tonsillectomy in a period of 10 months. Out of them 12 patients underwent laser tonsillectomies. The data of each patient included intra-operative blood loss, operation time, postoperative pain and postoperative healing. Results: All Patients were admitted for 24 hours. Intra operative blood loss was dramatically less with the use of CO2 laser than that of conventional method (5ml vs. 18ml). Profuse bleeding did not prolong this time especially in laser technique. The incidence of postoperative reactionary hemorrhage were not significantly different between two techniques. 2 patients suffered with secondary haemorrhage in conventional technique and in laser technique one patient had secondary haemorrhage. There was statistically significant difference in duration of operating time (15 vs. 40 min). Both methods of surgery had non-identical effect on post operative pain. Postoperative pain was less in laser technique than that of conventional technique in 7 days postoperative follow up. Leukocytic membrane formation and separation and final healing were earlier in laser technique than in conventional technique. Conclusion: CO2 laser is a safe and acceptable method for tonsillectomy. CO2 laser tonsillectomy reduces operation time and intraoperative blood loss. Postoperative pain is less than conventional technique and healing is also earlier in laser technique. Key Words: CO2 laser, tonsillectomy, ventilation.DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i1.4304 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2009; 15(1): 6-9
Techniques and results of stapedial surgery
Authors: Fakir Md Abu Yusuf , Bhuyan Md Arif Hossain , Al-Masum Syed Hasan Imam , Rahman HM Mustafizur , Uddin Md Mosleh , Joarder Md Abul Hasnat , Alauddin M
Published: May 2010

Objective: To evaluate the improvement of hearing after stapedial surgery, to record the problems during surgery and to assess the complications of the same. Study design: Retrospective review. Setting: Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Bangabandhu Shiekh Mujib Medical University. Materials and Methods: This study included thirty two patients of otosclerosis that were surgically treated in the department of otolaryngology and Head-Neck surgery at BSMMU from January, 2003 to June, 2005. The data of each patient included age, sex, educational & socio-economic status, mode of admission, types of dwelling, occupation, presenting symptoms and signs, preoperative investigations like PTA, tympanometric compliance, stapedial reflex, speech discrimination, HRCT temporal bone(in suspected cases of obliterated otosclerosis), operation notes, complications of surgery and state at follow up. Results: Most common age group was 21-30 years (50%) and 68.75% patients were male. Most of the patients were primarily educated (31.25%) and middle class people was maximum (62.5%). Most patients came to hospital referred by outside doctor (62.5%) and most of them were from rural area of Bangladesh(62.5%). Main presenting symptoms were progressive deafness and duration of hearing loss for 2-5 years was 31.25%. Most of the tympanic membranes (86.75%) were normal. Rinne was negative in all cases and Weber lateralized to affected ear or more deaf ear in 93.75% cases. Patients mainly presented with 50-60 dB hearing loss. There was slightly reduced compliance in 29 cases (90%) and stapedial reflex were absent in 75% cases. Speech discrimination test was 100% in 90% of the patients. HRCT temporal bone was done in 3 cases and 2 showed thickening of foot plate of stapes. Stapedotomy was done in most of the patients (78.1%). Common problems encountered during operation was perilymph flooding (6.28%) and obliterated otosclerosis (6.28%). Most common complication was injury to Chorda tympani nerve (9.37%). Improvement of hearing was in 28 patients (87.50%) and after surgery Air-Bone gap closure more than 10 dB was in 87% of patients. Most common prosthesis used was Teflon prosthesis. Conclusion: In general the stapedotomy/stapedectomy is very successful with over 90% of people experiencing a good improvement in hearing. Sometimes the hearing remains unchanged and there is a small (approx 1-2%) chance of hearing loss. Rarely there is chance of dead ear also. Hearing results vary from surgeon to surgeon. As with all operations the best results tend to be achieved by those who do the procedure most frequently. Key Words: Otosclerosis, Stapedectomy, StapedotomyDOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i1.4305 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2009; 15(1): 10-16
Metastatic neck node - a clinical study of 60 cases
Authors: Afroz Maleka , Akhtar Nasima , Siddiquee Belayat Hossain
Published: May 2010

Metastatic neck node is not uncommon in the otolaryngology department of a tertiary level hospital. Ignorance, illiteracy, delay in seeking medical advice and poor orientation of our general practitioners regarding management causes these patients to suffer from marked morbidity and mortality. It is a prospective study with random selection of sixty (60) cases of metastatic neck node admitted in the otolaryngology department of BSMMU and Dhaka Medical College Hospital during a period extending from September, 2002 to August, 2003. Here 53(88.33%) cases of metastatic neck nodes having a known primary in the head neck region and in other seven (11.67%) cases primary site of malignancy could not be detected. The commonest site of known primary was supraglottic larynx. Highest number 19 (31.67%) of presentation was seen in 5th decade. Male incidence 47 (78.33%) was more compared to female 13 (21.67%). Keywords: Neck gland, Metastatic neck node, Unknown primary.DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i1.4307 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2009; 15(1): 26-30
Prevalence of otitis media with effusion among school going children in Bangladesh
Authors: Aich Mani Lal , Biswas Akhil Chandra , Ahmed Miraj , Joarder Md Abul Hasnat , Datta Pran Gopal , Alauddin M
Published: May 2010

A Prospective study was carried out from Jan 2000 Jan 2003, to find out the prevalence of OME among School children The study was done in Dhaka City and adjacent areas of Dhaka City in Savar, Munshigonj and Keranigonj, Altogether 280 Students aged 4-9 years were interviewed and examined. Nineteen percent children were found to have OME. In the urban community it was 17%, but in rural areas it was 21%. In our study children with OME were more in poorer people, smoker parents and bottle fed babies. Key words: Otitis media with effusion (OME), school children.DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i1.4308 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2009; 15(1): 31-34
Abnormal post operative bleeding in routine ENT surgery - a caution for the young ENT surgeons
Authors: Haque Rojibul , Asad Md Khalid , Rasel MA , Aich Mani Lal
Published: May 2010

Bleeding may complicate many routine ENT procedures. This may result from technical errors, but bleeding associated with coagulopathy may be difficult to control. We report two cases of abnormal post operative bleeding due to coagulopathy, first one admitted on 2nd post operative day after tonsillectomy and second one admitted on 5th post operative day after septoplasty. Case one was diagnosed as a case of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), and second case was diagnosed later as a case of von Willebrand's Disease. All otolaryngologists should be aware of common bleeding disorders and their treatment. This knowledge will help for appropriate preoperative screening of patients. The most important component of the preoperative assessment is the bleeding history that directs further laboratory evaluation. Key-words: Post operative bleeding, coagulopthy, post tonsillectomy haemorrhage, Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), Von Willebrand's DiseaseDOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i1.4309 Bangladesh J of Otorhinolaryngology 2009; 15(1): 35-37
Outcome of myringoplasty
Authors: Aich Mani Lal , Alam ABM Khorshed , Talukder Debesha Chandra , Al Harun Abdullah , Abdullah M
Published: May 2010

A cross sectional, observational study was carried out on myringoplasty at a tertiary level hospital, with the aims to see the outcome of surgery. The study included 100 myringoplasty in central dry perforations of tubotympanic variety of CSOM. Age range of patients was from 15 years to 45 years; male was 56%.There was insignificant influences of age or sex on success rate. The surgeries were done under either local or general anaesthesia by underlay technique with temporalis fascia as a graft in all cases with different approaches without any significant influences on outcome. Site and size of the perforations had significant effect on surgical outcome. The overall graft take rate was 84%. The mean preoperative and postoperative air conduction threshold in the successful cases were 35.2dB & 24.1dB respectively with a mean audiological improvement of 11.1dB & air bone gap improvement was 12.4dB. Key words: Myringoplasty, outcome. DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i2.5054 Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2009; 15(2): 40-44
Pattern of metastasis in differentiated thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Sinha Nanda Kishore , Alam Md Monjurul , Akaiduzzaman Dewan Golam Md , Alauddin M
Published: May 2010

Total 60 patients were selected as per described criteria from the department of Otolaryngology and head neck surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka from January 2005 to October 2006. In this study of 60 patients of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), majority of the patients are within 31-50 yrs age group with female predominance. Papillary carcinoma was more common in 31-40 yrs age group and follicular carcinoma was more common in 41-50 years. Thyroid swelling was the most common presenting symptom of DTC (91.66%), followed by cervical lymphadenopathy (33.33%). Among the 60 DTC patients, papillary carcinoma was commoner (73.33%) than follicular carcinoma (26.67%). Overall female-male ratio for these 60 patients of DTC was 1.72: 1, but in papillary type the ratio was 1.44:1. and for follicular carcinoma was 3:1. Out of 44 papillary carcinoma patients 18 patients had cervical lymph node metastasis (40.90%), and out of 16 follicular carcinoma patients 2 had cervical lymph node metastasis (12.50%); P < 0.05. Among the 44 papillary carcinoma patients only 1 had distant metastasis (2.27%), and among the 16 follicular carcinoma patients 4 had distant metastasis (25%); P <0.05. 85% of the patients were presented with unilateral and 15% were presented with bilateral lymph node metastasis. In this series, distant metastasis was found in bone and lung, Maximum lymph node metastasis was found in level II (42.10%), level III (57.89%) and level IV (42.10%). Finally the Chi-square (x2) significance test was performed according to above described findings and it was found that there is significant difference in the pattern of lymph node metastasis and of distant metastasis between papillary and follicular type of DTC (P<0.05). Key words: Thyroid carcinoma; Metastasis. DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i2.5059 Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2009; 15(2): 60-68
Extensive nasopharyngeal angiofibroma  case report
Authors: Chowdhury M Alamgir , Malakar Mousumi , Rabbani SM Golam , Yasmeen Naseem , Islam Shahidul
Published: May 2010

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign vascular neoplasm, but it is locally aggressive. This accounts for less than 0.5% of all the neoplasm in the head & neck region in the male population only. Here we report a case of 10-year-old boy with a blackish red smooth polypoidal mass in the nasal cavity, with history of recurrent epistaxis. On physical examination it was suspected as nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. We removed it totally by lateral rhinotomy approach. And the diagnosis was nasopharyngeal angiofibroma on histopathology. Key words: Angiofibroma; Nasopharyngeal. DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v15i2.5061 Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2009; 15(2): 75-77
Synthesis and Effect on Human HepG2 Cells of 1,2-bis- (2-Methylallyl)disulfane
Authors: Ji Chunxiao , Ren Fenglian , Dai Jun , Xu Ming
Published: May 2010

1,2-bis(2-methylallyl)disulfane was synthesized from sodium sulfide and 3-chloro-2-methylpropylene. The structure of the target product was confirmed by GC-MS, 1H-NMR and elemental analysis. Cell viability assay, flow-cytometric analysis and protein expression results showed that 1,2-bis(2-methylallyl)disulfane could significantly inhibit the proliferation, and induce the apoptosis of human HepG2 cells.
Chemoprophylaxis of Tropical Infectious Diseases
Authors: McBride William J. H.
Published: May 2010

Travelers to tropical countries are at risk for a variety of infectious diseases. In some cases effective vaccinations are available, but for other infections chemoprophylaxis can be offered. Malaria prevention has become increasingly complex as Plasmodium species become resistant to available drugs. In certain high risk settings, antibiotics can be used to prevent leptospirosis, scrub typhus and other infections. Post-exposure prophylaxis is appropriate for selected virulent infections. In this article the evidence for chemoprophylaxis will be reviewed.
Asymmetric Membrane Capsules for Extended Delivery of the Weakly Basic Drug Carvedilol
Authors: Guarve Kumar , Gupta Ghanshyam Das
Published: May 2010

The objective of this study was to demonstrate that asymmetric membrane capsules can be used to deliver a poorly water soluble drug with a pH dependent solubility, such as carvedilol, for extended periods of time by modulating solubility with acid. In this study, the effect of the concentration of pH regulating agent and osmotic agents on the release rate of the active material was investigated. For this purpose, asymmetric membrane capsules of carvedilol were prepared using cellulose acetate as a semi-permeable membrane, containing glycerol as plasticizer, and fructose and fumaric acid were used as osmotic agent and pH regulating agent, respectively. In osmotic systems, the release rate of an excipient relative to the release rate of the drug is an important factor that determines the duration of drug release. Owing to high acidic strength and low aqueous solubility, fumaric acid resulted in simultaneous release and maintained a constant micro-environmental condition for the dissolution of the weakly basic drug. Finally, it was observed that the release rate of carvedilol was influenced by the concentration of fumaric acid and fructose. The optimal formulation was found to be able to deliver carvedilol at the rate of approximate zero-order up to 20 h, independent of release media and agitation rate.
Testing ZigBee Motes for Monitoring Refrigerated Vegetable Transportation under Real Conditions
Authors: Ruiz-Garcia Luis , Barreiro Pilar , Robla Jose Ignacio , Lunadei Loredana
Published: May 2010

Quality control and monitoring of perishable goods during transportation and delivery services is an increasing concern for producers, suppliers, transport decision makers and consumers. The major challenge is to ensure a continuous ‘cold chain’ from producer to consumer in order to guaranty prime condition of goods. In this framework, the suitability of ZigBee protocol for monitoring refrigerated transportation has been proposed by several authors. However, up to date there was not any experimental work performed under real conditions. Thus, the main objective of our experiment was to test wireless sensor motes based in the ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4 protocol during a real shipment. The experiment was conducted in a refrigerated truck traveling through two countries (Spain and France) which means a journey of 1,051 kilometers. The paper illustrates the great potential of this type of motes, providing information about several parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, door openings and truck stops. Psychrometric charts have also been developed for improving the knowledge about water loss and condensation on the product during shipments.
Veblen and the Theory of the Backpacker Leisure Class: Status Seeking and Emulation in the Australian Contemporary Tourist Economy
Authors: Hillman Wendy
Published: May 2010

In 1899 Thorstein Veblen wrote a seminal monograph on the subject of consumption and leisure. His work, The Theory of the Leisure Class, is one of the most enduring examples of status-seeking individuals' conspicuous consumption and conspicuous leisure practices, particularly
when applied to the tourist industry, and furthermore, is still relevant in today's economic climate. This article develops an independent theory of backpackers and how they can be perceived as undertaking conspicuous consumption and conspicuous leisure practices. This is done using Veblen's
work as a foundation. Qualitative methods using in-depth interviews and participant observation techniques are employed to obtain data from 41 participants. The findings serve to highlight the fact that Veblen's thesis is as relevant today as it was when it was written in 1899.
Chain member perception of chain performance: the role of relationship quality
Authors: Molnár Adrienn , Gellynck Xavier , Weaver Robert
Published: May 2010

The purpose of the paper is to measure perceived performance of bilateral relationships in the chain. Therefore, quantitative data were collected from 270 chain members from 3 EU countries in 6 traditional food product categories. First, perceived performance of bilateral relationships was analysed which revealed a generally high perceived contribution of each chain member to its partners' performance. Second, cluster analysis was conducted resulting in 4 clusters: 1) Low performing chains; 2) Low perceived food manufacturer's (FM) performance by supplier (S) and customer (C); 3) High perceived FM performance by S and C; 4) High performing chains. Third, binary logistic regression was used to identify 7 relationship constructs that significantly predict cluster membership: trust, economic satisfaction, social satisfaction, dependency, coercive power, reputation, conflict and integration.
Managerial responses to transaction cost disequilibrium in food supply chains and networks
Authors: Bremmers Harry , van der Meulen Bernd , Poppe Krijn , Wijnands Jo
Published: May 2010

Differences in transaction costs (i.e. costs of information processing, monitoring and control) between firms in local supply chains as well as in an international setting may have a negative impact on competitiveness and on creation of value added. Transaction cost disequilibrium is defined as a state in which transaction costs exceed the transaction benefits from the exchange of assets. The goal of this article is to assess whether such a disequilibrium exists for European food supply chains; if so, what its effects are and how it can be reduced. Transaction cost disequilibrium will be investigated at two levels: international competition and within local supply chains. The first focuses on the competitiveness of supply chains in global markets, the second especially regards the competitive position of companies within a single supply chain. To address our research question, we gathered empirical data by means of survey questionnaires and interviews in 2007 and 2008. The results show that internationally differences in transaction costs exist, but perceived disadvantages of EU food firms towards the US are being outweighed by perceived transaction benefits (i.e. preferred higher levels of food safety). However, within local supply chains SMEs are confronted with more than average transaction and compliance costs. Transaction benefits can only partially be reaped, especially because of a lack of transparency of the origin of value added to consumers. Proposed improvements to the competitive position of SMEs - contingent upon supply chain structure and product characteristics - include up-scaling, improvement of innovative power, co-labelling as well as simplification of EU food law.
Development and single laboratory validation of a method for citrinin
Authors: Sato T. , Higashihara K. , Sasaki A. , Toth D. , Goto T.
Published: May 2010

Citrinin (CIT) is a nephrotoxic secondary metabolite produced by several fungal species. CIT contamination has
been reported in many cereals. Recently CIT contamination of red mold rice, used as an artificial colour, received
attention because a CIT producing Monascus species was used in its production. Therefore, we developed a relatively
simple method, immunoaffinity column clean-up followed by high performance liquid chromatographic (IAC-HPLC)
detection, to determine CIT in red mold rice and several other commodities, and performed a single laboratory
validation of the method. CIT was extracted by shaking for 30 min with 70% methanol, after which the extract was
purified using an immunoaffinity column. The isolated CIT was quantitated by HPLC with fluorescence detection.
Recoveries of CIT from red mold rice and koji-rice at levels of 50-2,500 µg/kg were 81-88%. RSDs, estimated with
naturally contaminated red mold rice at 50, 200 and 400 µg/kg were 5.1%, 2.8% and 4.1%, respectively. Recoveries of
CIT from cereals and mushroom samples at 50, 200 and 400 µg/kg were 60-123%, 69-88% and 73-100% with RSDs
of 2.1-7.8%, 1.7-9.2% and 0.6-5.3%, respectively.
Number of export almond lots rejected in the EU due to USA sampling plans and aflatoxin contamination levels among lots tested
Authors: Whitaker T. , Slate A. , Adams J. , Birmingham T.
Published: May 2010

In March 2010, the European Union (EU) modified their aflatoxin limits and sampling plans for almonds, pistachios,
and hazelnuts to closely resemble that developed by Codex in 2008. To assist the USA almond industry evaluate how
to modify their aflatoxin sampling plan to minimise USA lots rejected by the EU at import, studies were conducted to:
(a) develop a model to predict the number of USA almond lots rejected at origin and at destination by various Codex
style aflatoxin-sampling plans used by the USA where accept/reject limits vary from EU limits of 8 ng/g aflatoxin
B1 / 10 ng/g total aflatoxins (AFT) to 8, 6, 4, 2, and 0.5 ng/g AFT; (b) determine the effect of the level of aflatoxin
contamination among lots tested in the USA on the number of lots accepted and rejected at origin and at destination;
and (c) develop a method based upon lots rejected in the USA to predict the lots rejected several months later in
the EU. For a given USA crop contamination level, as the accept/reject limits of the USA sampling plan decreases
from 8 to 0.5 ng/g AFT, the number of lots rejected in the USA increases, the average aflatoxin concentration among
all lots accepted for export decreases, the number of lots rejected in the EU decreases, and the average aflatoxin
concentration among lots accepted in the EU decreases. For a given USA aflatoxin sampling plan used at origin, an
increase in the USA crop aflatoxin contamination level increases the number of lots rejected at origin, increases the
average aflatoxin concentration in USA lots accepted for export, increases the number of lots rejected in the EU, and
increases the average aflatoxin concentration among lots accepted in the EU. Graphical techniques were developed
to use the percentage of lots rejected in the USA to predict the percentage of USA lots rejected by the EU.
Revisión estratigráfica de Punta Coyote (Baja California Sur, México) e implicaciones para el volcanismo de la Sierra Madre Occidental y el arco Comondú
Authors: Puy-Alquiza M. J. , Miranda-Avilés R. , López-Martínez M.
Published: May 2010

Se presentan nuevos datos sobre la estratigrafía y sedimentología de la sucesión volcanosedimentaria de la Unidad Inferior del Grupo Comondú (UIGC) al noreste de la ciudad de La Paz, en Punta Coyote, Baja California Sur, México. El análisis de facies, así como las nuevas dataciones 40Ar /39Ar permitieron interpretar la evolución del ambiente sedimentario y los pulsos volcánicos de la UIGC en Punta Coyote. De acuerdo al análisis realizado, el área estudiada formó parte de la cuenca de arco delantero al oeste del arco volcánico de la Sierra Madre Occidental durante el Oligoceno inferior al Mioceno inferior. El ambiente sedimentario de la unidad inferior del Grupo Comondú evolucionó inicialmente como un ambiente fluvial trenzado progradando a un ambiente de abanico aluvial donde llegaron a depositarse tres unidades tobáceas: toba los Azabaches (30.6 ± 0.4 Ma), toba La Capilla y toba El Oro (22.0 ± 0.4 Ma). La sucesión estudiada aporta nueva información en relación a la evolución estratigráfica del arco volcánico Oligoceno-Mioceno en la Península de Baja California y su correlación con los depósitos del Supergrupo Volcánico Superior de la Sierra Madre Occidental al noroeste de México.
GML as Database
Authors: Córcoles Jose E. , González Pascual
Published: May 2010

An interesting feature of GML is to consider it as a database, but only in the strictest sense of the term. That is, as a collection of data. As a database format, it can be queried. In order to do this, we need a query language with spatial operators. In addition, in order to use any query language over GML, it is necessary to find an implementation that allows to exploit all its features, i.e., an efficient storage of GML documents is necessary. The general aim of this chapter is to discuss different approaches for storing and querying GML documents. In order to achieve our aim we discuss well-known approaches to the storage of XML documents (with only alphanumeric data) and their application to GML documents. Although there are many approaches to storing and retrieving XML documents with only alphanumeric features, few approaches are applicable to query GML documents.
Real-Time Extraction of the Road Geometry
Authors: Gontran Hervé
Published: May 2010

The development of road database requires the management of continuously growing road databases. Mobile mapping systems can acquire this information, while offering an unbeatable productivity with the combination of navigation and videogrammetry tools. However, the complexity of data georeferencing and the fusion of the results with video sequences require numerous hours of repetitive labor. We propose to introduce the concept of “real time” in the field of mobile mapping. The deterministic exploitation of the data captured during a kinematic survey aims at restricting human intervention in the sophisticated georeferencing process, while authorizing the dissemination of this technique outside well-informed communities. What are the tools and algorithms robust enough to ensure the quality control of the georeferencing of the road objects? We intend to provide these concerns a pertinent answer, while demonstrating the validity of the concept via the automatic acquisition and interpretation of the road geometry.
Overview, Classification and Selection of Map Projections for Geospatial Applications
Authors: Delmelle Eric , Dezzani Raymond
Published: May 2010

There has been a dramatic increase in the handling of geospatial information, and also in the production of maps. However, because the Earth is three-dimensional, geo-referenced data must be projected on a two-dimensional surface. Depending on the area being mapped, the projection process generates a varying amount of distortion, especially for continental and world maps. Geospatial users have a wide variety of projections too choose from; it is therefore important to understand distortion characteristics for each of them. This chapter reviews foundations of map projection, such as map projection families, distortion characteristics (areal, angular, shape and distance), geometric features and special properties. The chapter ends by a discussion on projection selection and current research trends."
Network Modeling
Authors: Curtin Kevin M.
Published: May 2010

Network models are some of the earliest and most consistently important data models in GISystems. Network modeling has a strong theoretical basis in the mathematical discipline of graph theory, and methods for describing and measuring networks and proving properties of networks are well-developed. There are a variety of network models in GISystems, which are primarily differentiated by the topological relationships they maintain. Network models can act as the basis for location through the process of linear referencing. Network analyses such as routing and flow modeling have to some extent been implemented, although there are substantial opportunities for additional theoretical advances and diversified application.
Grid Computing and its Application to Geoinformatics
Authors: Chen Aijun , Di Liping , Bai Yuqi , Wei Yaxing
Published: May 2010

The definition of the Grid computing and its application to geoinformatics are introduced. Not only the comparison of power Grid and computing Grid is illustrated, also Web technology and Grid technology are compared. The Hourglass Model of Grid architecture is depicted. The layered Grid architecture, relating to Internet protocol architecture, consists of the fabric (computer, storage, switches, etc.) layer, connectivity layer, resource layer, collective layer, and application layer. Grid computing has been applied to many disciplines and research areas, such as physics, Earth science, astronomy, bioinformatics, etc. By applying the Grid computing to Open Geospatial Consortium, Inc.’s Web services and geospatial standards from International Organization for Standardization, US Federal Geographic Data Committee and US NASA, a geospatial Grid is proposed here, which consisting of Grid-managed geospatial data and Grid-enabled geospatial services.
Sharing of Distributed Geospatial Data through Grid Technology
Authors: Wei Yaxing , Di Liping , Liao Guangxuan , Zhao Baohua , Chen Aijun , Bai Yuqi
Published: May 2010

With the rapid accumulation of geospatial data and the advancement of geoscience, there is a critical requirement for an infrastructure that can integrate large-scale, heterogeneous, and distributed storage systems for the sharing of geospatial data within multiple user communities. This article probes into the feasibility to share distributed geospatial data through Grid computing technology by introducing several major issues (including system heterogeneity, uniform mechanism to publish and discover geospatial data, performance, and security) to be faced by geospatial data sharing and how Grid technology can help to solve these issues. Some recent research efforts, such as ESG and the Data Grid system in GMU CSISS, have proven that Grid technology provides a large-scale infrastructure which can seamlessly integrate dispersed geospatial data together and provide uniform and efficient ways to access the data.
Multicast Over Location-Based Services
Authors: Hegedüs Péter , Orosz Mihály , Hosszú Gábor , Kovács Ferenc
Published: May 2010

This chapter details the potential found in combining to different technologies. The two basically different technologies, LBSs in mobile communication and the well-elaborated multicast technology are merged in the multicast via LBS solutions. As this chapter demonstrates, this emerging new area has a lot of possibilities, which have not been completely utilized.
Routing
Authors: Curtin Kevin M.
Published: May 2010

Routing is the act of selecting a course of travel. Routing problems are one of the most prominent and persistent problems in geoinformatics. This large research area has a strong theoretical foundation with ties to operations research and management science. There are a wide variety of routing models to fit many different application areas, including shortest path problems, vehicle routing problems, and the traveling salesman problem, among many others. There are also a range of optimal and heuristic solution procedures for solving instances of those problems. Research is ongoing to expand the types of routing problems that can be solved, and the environments within which they can be applied.