bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor of the Lung in Children: Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) Expression and Clinico-Pathological Correlation
Authors: Siminovich Mónica , Galluzzo Laura , López Jessica , Lubieniecki Fabiana , de Dávila María Teresa G.
Published: January 2012

The inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare neoplastic lesion with a high incidence in children and young people, and may arise in lungs, soft tissue, or viscera. It is recognized as a borderline tumor with the possibility to recur, undergo malignant transformation, and metastasize. IMT is composed of fascicles of bland myofibroblastic cells admixed with an inflammatory infiltrate consisting of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and eosinophils. We reviewed pulmonary IMT diagnosed at Garrahan Hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina, during 12 years and examined the clinical, laboratory, and pathological features as well as molecular genetics. Eight pediatric cases were evaluated with a male-to-female ratio of 5:3 and a median age of 6 years at diagnosis. The most common lung localization was the upper lobe. All cases underwent surgical excision and no local recurrences were found. Five out of eight patients, including two cases with metastatic/multifocal lesions in the central nervous system (CNS), are alive and disease free after a median follow-up of 30 months. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) expression was negative in all pulmonary samples by immunohistochemistry (IHC), however, rearrangement for ALK locus by fluorescence in situ hybridization was found in one lung and in two CNS samples. These findings may reflect higher sensitivity of the molecular biologic procedure compare to traditional IHC practice. In our pediatric experience, 25% of patients with lung IMT developed CNS lesions; therefore we consider that CNS screening in these patients should be considered, at diagnosis and later during follow up.
Use of contrast echocardiography for quantitative and qualitative evaluation of myocardial perfusion and pulmonary transit time in healthy dogs
Authors: Crosara Serena , Ljungvall Ingrid , Margiocco Marco L. , Häggström Jens , Tarducci Alberto , Borgarelli Michele
Published: January 2012

Objective—To evaluate reproducibility of ejection fraction (EF), myocardial perfusion (MP), and pulmonary transit time (PTT) measured in a group of dogs by use of contrast echocardiography and to examine safety of this method by evaluating cardiac troponin I concentrations.

Animals—6 healthy dogs.

Procedures—2 bolus injections and a constant rate infusion of contrast agent were administered IV. Echocardiographic EF was determined by use of the area-length method and was calculated without and with contrast agent. The PTT and normalized PTT (PTT/mean R-R interval) were measured for each bolus. Constant rate infusion was used for global MP evaluation, and regional MP was calculated by use of a real-time method in 4 regions of interest of the left ventricle. Cardiac troponin I concentration was analyzed before and after contrast agent administration. Intraoberserver and interobserver variability was calculated.

Results—EF was easier to determine with the ultrasonographic contrast agent. For the first and second bolus, mean ± SD PTT was 1.8 ± 0.2 seconds and 2.1 ± 0.3 seconds and normalized PTT was 3.4 ± 0.3 seconds and 3.5 ± 0.3 seconds, respectively. A coefficient of variation < 15% was obtained for global MP but not for the regional MPs. No differences were detected between precontrast and postcontrast cardiac troponin I concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Contrast echocardiography appeared to be a repeat-able and safe technique for use in the evaluation of global MP and PTT in healthy dogs, and it improved delineation of the endocardial border in dogs.
Effects of ivabradine on heart rate and left ventricular function in healthy cats and cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Riesen Sabine C. , Schober Karsten E. , Smith Danielle N. , Otoni Cristiane C. , Li Xiaobai , Bonagura John D.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To evaluate the effects of the pacemaker funny current (If) inhibitor ivabradine on heart rate (HR), left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function, and left atrial performance in healthy cats and cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Animals—6 healthy cats and 6 cats with subclinical HCM.

Procedures—Anesthetized cats underwent cardiac catheterization and were studied over a range of hemodynamic states induced by treatment with esmolol (200 to 400 μg/kg/min, IV), esmolol and dobutamine (5 μg/kg/min, IV), ivabradine (0.3 mg/kg, IV), and ivabradine and dobutamine. Left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, cardiac output, and left atrial function were studied via catheter-based methods and echocardiography.

Results—Treatment with ivabradine resulted in a significant reduction of HR, rate-pressure product, and LV contractile function and a significant increase in LV end-diastolic pressure, LV end-diastolic wall stress, and LV relaxation time constant (tau) in cats with HCM. Concurrent administration of ivabradine and dobutamine resulted in a significant increase of LV contractility and lusitropy, with blunted chronotropic effects of the catecholamine. Left atrial performance was not significantly altered by ivabradine in cats with HCM. Regression analysis revealed an association between maximum rate of LV pressure rise and tau in cats with HCM.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ivabradine had significant effects on several cardiovascular variables in anesthetized cats with HCM. Studies in awake cats with HCM are needed to clinically validate these findings.
Evaluation of ultrasonography for measurement of skin thickness in Shar-Peis
Authors: Zanna Giordana , Fondevila Dolors , Ferrer Lluis , Espada Yvonne
Published: January 2012

Objective—To determine whether high-frequency diagnostic ultrasonography is useful for assessment of skin thickness in Shar-Peis.

Animals—10 healthy Shar-Peis and 10 healthy Beagles used as controls.

Procedures—Ultrasonographic examination of the skin was performed on 4 cutaneous sites by use of a 13-MHz linear-array transducer, and the mean of 3 measurements was calculated. Ultrasonography results were compared with histologic findings of skin specimens stained with H&E, Alcian blue at a pH of 2.5, and Masson trichrome stains, with histometric measurements of skin thickness made by use of a microscope, and with measurements of skin thickness made by use of a plicometer. Ultrasonograpy results were also compared via age and sex of selected animals.

Results—A clear correlation was detected between ultrasonography results and results of histologic and histometric analysis in both groups. In Shar-Peis, no correlation was found between ultrasonography results and age and sex, whereas in Beagles, a weak positive correlation was found only between skin thickness in dorsal cervical and frontal (on the rostral margins of the supraorbital processes) regions and age. A positive overall correlation was found in Shar-Peis between measurements made via ultrasonography and plicometery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Ultrasonography was a useful tool to assess skin thickness, and in Shar-Peis, it might be considered a valid alternative to invasive methods such as histologic examination to objectively estimate the severity of hereditary cutaneous hyaluronosis.
Comparison of direct versus radiographic measurement of sagittal otoliths in cadavers of bogue (Boops boops)
Authors: Macrì Francesco , Bottari Teresa , Bonfiglio Rossella , Rapisarda Giuseppe , Marino Fabio
Published: January 2012

Objective—To validate the use of radiography to determine the length of sagittal otoliths in intact bogue (Boops boops; a sparid fish [commonly called sea bream]).

Sample—52 bogue cadavers.

Procedures—Weight and standard lengths (from the tip of the snout to the caudal end of the last vertebra) of fish were measured. The radiographic beam was centered over the postorbital area, and images were obtained via ventrodorsal, 30° right dorsal–left ventral oblique, and 30° left dorsal–right ventral oblique projections. Otoliths were removed from the fish; sagittae were measured directly and on radiographic images by use of a vernier caliper. The relationship between direct and radiographic measurements of sagittal otoliths was calculated.

Results—Paired sagittal, lapillus, and asteriscus otoliths were identified. Sagittal otoliths were comma-shaped on ventrodorsal projections; in oblique projections, they appeared ovoid and pairs of otoliths were located in the same dorsal plane. Radiographic length of sagittal otoliths was significantly correlated with directly measured length, and radiographic measurements were not significantly different between ventrodorsal and oblique radiographic projections.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Radiographic examination of sagittae was useful to determine the length of sagittal otoliths and, consequently, the fish length. In ecological applications, the radiographic measurement of sagittal otolith length may be useful for studies on the aquatic diet of organisms (fish, pinnipeds, and marine birds) because it allows for quick back-calculation to the size of prey.
Evaluation of serum concentrations of cortisol and sex hormones of adrenal gland origin after stimulation with two synthetic ACTH preparations in clinically normal dogs
Authors: Ginel Pedro J. , Sileo Maria T. , Blanco Beatriz , Garfia Bartolomé , Quintavalla Fausto
Published: January 2012

Objective—To compare the adrenocortical response of healthy dogs to a commonly used dose of a nonadsorbed tetracosactide product (tetracosactide) with responses to 2 doses of a depot formulation of tetracosactide (depot tetracosactide).

Animals—14 dogs.

Procedures—Dogs were randomly assigned to receive tetracosactide (5 mg/kg, IV) or depot tetracosactide (250 μg, IM, or 5 μg/kg, IM). Dogs received each treatment once with a 2-week interval between treatments. Blood samples were assayed for cortisol, progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and estradiol concentrations.

Results—Serum cortisol concentrations were significantly higher than the preadministration (baseline) concentrations for all treatments 60 minutes after administration of ACTH. Peak cortisol concentration was detected 180 minutes after IM administration of 250 μg of the depot tetracosactide. Serum concentrations of progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and androstenedione did not differ significantly from baseline concentrations after stimulation with the 5 μg/kg dose of depot tetracosactide. Adrenal gland progesterone response was significantly higher than baseline concentrations at 60 minutes after administration of the 250-μg dose of depot tetracosactide, and the 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione responses were significantly higher than baseline concentrations at 120 minutes. Compared with the response to tetracosactide, adrenocortical response was higher and more sustained following administration of the depot tetracosactide, except for androstenedione concentration, which had a nonsignificant response.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Except for androstenedione concentrations, a high dose of the depot tetracosactide (250 μg, IM) induced an adrenocortical response similar to that after administration of tetracosactide. Thus, depot tetracosactide may represent an alternative to the nonadsorbed tetracosactide product.
Evaluation of an alternative method of herd classification for infection with paratuberculosis in cattle herds in the United States
Authors: Tavornpanich Saraya , Wells Scott J. , Fossler Charles P. , Roussel Allen J. , Gardner Ian A.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To develop a better system for classification of herd infection status for paratuberculosis (Johne's disease [JD]) in US cattle herds on the basis of the risk of potential transmission of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratubeculosis.

Sample—Simulated data for herd size and within-herd prevalence; sensitivity and specificity for test methods obtained from consensus-based estimates.

Procedures—Interrelationships among variables influencing interpretation and classification of herd infection status for JD were evaluated by use of simulated data for various herd sizes, true within-herd prevalences, and sampling and testing methods. The probability of finding ≥ 1 infected animal in herds was estimated for various testing methods and sample sizes by use of hypergeometric random sampling.

Results—2 main components were required for the new herd JD classification system: the probability of detection of infection determined on the basis of test results from a sample of animals and the maximum detected number of animals with positive test results. Tables were constructed of the estimated probability of detection of infection, and the maximum number of cattle with positive test results or fecal pools with positive culture results with 95% confidence for classification of herd JD infection status were plotted. Herd risk for JD was categorized on the basis of 95% confidence that the true within-herd prevalence was ≤ 15%, ≤ 10%, ≤ 5%, or ≤ 2%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Analysis of the findings indicated that a scientifically rigorous and transparent herd classification system for JD in cattle is feasible.
Evaluation of horizontal transmission of bovine viral diarrhea virus type 1a from experimentally infected white-tailed deer fawns (Odocoileus virginianus) to colostrum-deprived calves
Authors: Negrón María E. , Pogranichniy Roman M. , Van Alstine William , Hilton W. Mark , Lévy Michel , Raizman Eran A.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To assess the transmission of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) from experimentally infected white-tailed deer fawns to colostrum-deprived calves by use of a BVDV strain isolated from hunter-harvested white-tailed deer.

Animals—5 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fawns and 6 colostrum-deprived calves.

Procedures—Fawns were inoculated intranasally with a noncytopathic BVDV-1a isolate (2 mL containing 106.7 TCID50/mL), and 2 days after inoculation, animals were commingled until the end of the study. Blood and serum samples were obtained on days −6, 0, 7, 14, and 21 after inoculation for reverse transcriptase PCR assay, virus neutralization, and BVDV-specific antibody ELISA. Nasal, oral, and rectal swab specimens were collected on days 0, 3, 7, 14, 17, and 21 for reverse transcriptase PCR testing. By 21 days after inoculation, all animals were euthanized and necropsied and tissues were collected for histologic evaluation, immunohistochemical analysis, and virus isolation.

Results—All fawns became infected and shed the virus for up to 18 days as determined on the basis of reverse transcriptase PCR testing and virus isolation results. Evidence of BVDV infection as a result of cohabitation with acutely infected fawns was detected in 4 of the 6 calves by means of reverse transcriptase PCR testing and virus isolation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis of these findings, BVDV transmission from acutely infected fawns to colostrum-deprived calves appeared possible.
Comparison of reliability of five patellar position indices at various stifle joint angles in pelvic limbs obtained from cadavers of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes)
Authors: Miles James E. , Nielsen Dorte H. , Jensen Bente R. , Kirpensteijn Jolle , Svalastoga Eiliv L. , Eriksen Thomas
Published: January 2012

Objective—To compare 5 patellar position indices at various stifle joint angles in cadavers of red foxes, determine measurement reliability, and assess the suitability of these indices for clinical use.

Sample—Pelvic limbs from cadavers of 12 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes).

Procedures—Patellar position in each limb at 7 stifle joint angles (30° to 148°) was assessed by use of the Insall-Salvati (IS), modified Insall-Salvati (mIS), de Carvalho (dC), patellotrochlear (PT), and Blackburne-Peel (BP) indices.

Results—Values for all indices varied significantly on the basis of joint angle, but for IS and mIS indices, this was minor and nonsignificant between 52° and 130° and between 52° and 148°, respectively. The dC index increased linearly, and PT and BP indices varied polynomially with increases in stifle joint angle. Stifle joint angles measured from radiographs agreed well with the goniometrically set stifle joint angles up to approximately 100° and diverged thereafter. Intraobserver and interobserver agreement was substantial for all indices, and IS index was the most precise.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—IS and mIS index values were effectively independent of stifle joint angle, in contrast to dC, PT, and BP indices. The BP index varied nonsignificantly across a range of joint angles. To maximize angular accuracy, radiographs should not be obtained at joint angles > 100°. Although dC, PT, and BP indices appeared to be suitable for preoperative and postoperative evaluation of patellar position, BP index appeared to have the most promise for determination of patellar position in clinical applications.
Refractive states of eyes and associations between ametropia and age, breed, and axial globe length in domestic cats
Authors: Konrade Kricket A. , Hoffman Allison R. , Ramey Kelli L. , Goldenberg Ruby B. , Lehenbauer Terry W.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To determine the refractive states of eyes in domestic cats and to evaluate correlations between refractive error and age, breed, and axial globe measurements.

Animals—98 healthy ophthalmologically normal domestic cats.

Procedures—The refractive state of 196 eyes (2 eyes/cat) was determined by use of streak retinoscopy. Cats were considered ametropic when the mean refractive state was ≥ ± 0.5 diopter (D). Amplitude-mode ultrasonography was used to determine axial globe length, anterior chamber length, and vitreous chamber depth.

Results—Mean ± SD refractive state of all eyes was −0.78 ± 1.37 D. Mean refractive error of cats changed significantly as a function of age. Mean refractive state of kittens (≤ 4 months old) was −2.45 ± 1.57 D, and mean refractive state of adult cats (> 1 year old) was −0.39 ± 0.85 D. Mean axial globe length, anterior chamber length, and vitreous chamber depth were 19.75 ± 1.59 mm, 4.66 ± 0.86 mm, and 7.92 ± 0.86 mm, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Correlations were detected between age and breed and between age and refractive states of feline eyes. Mean refractive error changed significantly as a function of age, and kittens had greater negative refractive error than did adult cats. Domestic shorthair cats were significantly more likely to be myopic than were domestic mediumhair or domestic longhair cats. Domestic cats should be included in the animals in which myopia can be detected at a young age, with a likelihood of progression to emmetropia as cats mature.
Pharmacokinetics of dexmedetomidine administered intravenously in isoflurane-anesthetized cats
Authors: Escobar André , Pypendop Bruno H. , Siao Kristine T. , Stanley Scott D. , Ilkiw Jan E.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of dexmedetomidine administered as a short-duration IV infusion in isoflurane-anesthetized cats.

Animals—6 healthy adult domestic female cats.

Procedures—Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride was injected IV (10 μg/kg over 5 minutes [rate, 2 μg/kg/min]) in isoflurane-anesthetized cats. Blood samples were obtained immediately prior to and at 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 240, and 480 minutes following the start of the IV infusion. Collected blood samples were transferred to tubes containing EDTA, immediately placed on ice, and then centrifuged at 3,901 × g for 10 minutes at 4°C. The plasma was harvested and stored at −20°C until analyzed. Plasma dexmedetomidine concentrations were determined by means of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Dexmedetomidine plasma concentration-time data were fitted to compartmental models.

Results—A 2-compartment model with input in and elimination from the central compartment best described the disposition of dexmedetomidine administered via short-duration IV infusion in isoflurane-anesthetized cats. Weighted mean ± SEM apparent volume of distribution of the central compartment and apparent volume of distribution at steady-state were 402 ± 47 mL/kg and 1,701 ± 200 mL/kg, respectively; clearance and terminal half-life (harmonic mean ± jackknife pseudo-SD) were 6.3 ± 2.8 mL/min/kg and 198 ± 75 minutes, respectively. The area under the plasma concentration curve and maximal plasma concentration were 1,061 ± 292 min•ng/mL and 17.6 ± 1.8 ng/mL, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Disposition of dexmedetomidine administered via short-duration IV infusion in isoflurane-anesthetized cats was characterized by a moderate clearance and a long terminal half-life.
Effects of in vitro exposure to autologous blood and serum on expression of interleukin-8, interleukin-1β, and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 in equine primary bronchial epithelial cell cultures
Authors: Ainsworth Dorothy M. , Reyner Claudia L.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To examine the effects of in vitro exposure to solutions of autologous horse blood (AHB) and autologous horse serum (AHS) on expressions of selected cytokine genes in equine primary bronchial epithelial cell (BEC) cultures and to contrast these responses to those induced in BEC cultures by endotoxin and hay dust.

Sample—BEC cultures established from bronchi of 6 healthy horses.

Procedures—5-day-old BEC cultures were treated with PBS solution, AHB (2 concentrations), AHS, hay dust solution, and lipopolysaccharide solution for 24 hours. Gene expressions of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-1β, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2), and glyceralde-hyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase were subsequently measured with a kinetic PCR assay.

Results—With the exception of AHS, all treatments of the BECs resulted in upregulation of each target gene expression relative to its expression in cultures exposed to PBS solution. Treatment with AHB induced a dose-dependent increase of each target gene, with IL-1β expression increasing the most (> 1,200-fold increase). Lipopolysaccharide and hay dust solution treatments each resulted in 20-fold increases in IL-8 and IL-1β gene expressions. Lipopolysaccharide and hay dust solution treatments also resulted in a 7- and 8-fold increase in CXCL2 gene expression, respectively. The increases in IL-8 and CXCL2 gene expressions following treatment with the higher concentration of blood were equivalent to those associated with hay dust solution or lipopolysaccharide.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that chemokine expression by cultured equine BECs following exposure to pulmonary hemorrhage conditions may contribute to the development of inflammatory airway disease in horses.
Effectiveness of a bipolar vessel sealant device for sealing uterine horns and bodies from dogs
Authors: Barrera Jessica S. , Monnet Eric
Published: January 2012

Objective—To compare the bursting strength of a vessel sealant device (VSD) with that of an encircling suture on uterine horns and bodies from dogs.

Sample—Uteri from 24 shelter dogs with unknown reproductive histories.

Procedures—Uterine horns and bodies were allocated to groups to be sealed with suture or a VSD. Uteri were then infused with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution until the seals burst or the uteri reached a maximal pressure of 300 mm Hg. Variables recorded included dog age, uterine body and horn diameter, and maximal pressure.

Results—The median (range) bursting pressure reached in sealed uterine horns was 300 (0 to 300) mm Hg for the VSD group and 300 (200 to 300) mm Hg for the suture group. Within the VSD group, seals of 2 of 3 uterine horns with a diameter ≥ 9 mm burst before intraluminal pressure reached 100 mm Hg, compared with 1 of 21 uterine horns with a diameter < 9 mm. The median bursting pressure for uterine bodies was 237 (0 to 300) mm Hg for the VSD group versus 300 (175 to 300) mm Hg for the suture group. Within the VSD group, seals in uterine bodies with a diameter ≥ 9 mm failed at a significantly lower pressure (125 [0 to 125]) mm Hg than those with a diameter < 9 mm (275 [125 to 300]) mm Hg.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The failure pressure for both sealing techniques was high, which indicated that the VSD may be a safe instrument for sealing the uterine horn in dogs. Given the low mean bursting pressure for seals in uterine bodies with large diameters, the VSD cannot be recommended for sealing uterine bodies ≥ 9 mm in diameter.
Evaluation of skin samples for bovine viral diarrhea virus by use of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assay after vaccination of cattle with a modified-live bovine viral diarrhea virus vaccine
Authors: Corbett Erik M. , Grooms Daniel L. , Bolin Steven R.
Published: January 2012

Objective—To determine whether vaccine virus can be detected by use of reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR assays for pooled and individual skin samples obtained from cattle after vaccination with a commercially available modified-live bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) vaccine.

Animals—12 BVDV-seropositive steer calves and 7 BVDV-seronegative (antibody titer < 1:4) heifers; all cattle were free of persistent infection with BVDV.

Procedures—2 experiments were conducted. Cattle were vaccinated on day 0 with a commercially available modified-live BVDV vaccine. Skin samples were collected on days 0, 3 to 14, 16, and 18 for virus detection by use of RT-PCR assay on individual and pooled samples. In addition, blood samples and nasal swab specimens were collected for virus isolation.

Results—All cattle, regardless of serologic status, had negative results for BVDV as determined by use of RT-PCR assay of individual and pooled skin samples. Virus was detected via virus isolation in serum or the buffy coat in 5 of 7 heifers that were seronegative when vaccinated.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These findings indicated that it would be unlikely to detect BVDV vaccine virus in skin by use of RT-PCR assay of individual or pooled skin samples obtained from cattle after vaccination with a commercially available modified-live BVDV vaccine. Veterinarians and producers should be confident that positive test results for BVDV on skin samples would not likely be caused by the vaccination virus after administration of a modified-live virus vaccine.
Effects of Patellar Taping on Brain Activity During Knee Joint Proprioception Tests Using Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Callaghan Michael J. , McKie Shane , Richardson Paul , Oldham Jacqueline A.
Published: January 2012

Background

Patellar taping is a common treatment modality for physical therapists managing patellofemoral pain. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear, with much debate as to whether its efficacy is due to a change in patellar alignment or an alteration in sensory input.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the sensory input hypothesis using functional magnetic resonance imaging when taping was applied to the knee joint during a proprioception task.

Design

This was an observational study with patellar taping intervention.

Methods

Eight male volunteers who were healthy and right-leg dominant participated in a motor block design study. Each participant performed 2 right knee extension repetitive movement tasks: one simple and one proprioceptive. These tasks were performed with and without patellar taping and were auditorally paced for 400 seconds at 72 beats/min (1.2 Hz).

Results

The proprioception task without patellar taping caused a positive blood oxygenation level–dependant (BOLD) response bilaterally in the medial supplementary motor area, the cingulate motor area, the basal ganglion, and the thalamus and medial primary sensory motor cortex. For the proprioception task with patellar taping, there was a decreased BOLD response in these regions. In the lateral primary sensory cortex, there was a negative BOLD response with less activity for the proprioception task with taping.

Limitations

This study may have been limited by the small sample size, a possible learning effect due to a nonrandom order of tasks, and use of a single-joint knee extension task.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that patellar taping modulates brain activity in several areas of the brain during a proprioception knee movement task.
Morphological Change of Dhaka City Over a Period of 55 Years: A Case Study of Two Wards
Authors: Ahmed Bayes , Raj Muhammad Rakibul Hasan , Maniruzzaman KM
Published: January 2012

Dhaka City has undergone radical changes in its physical form, not only by territorial expansion, but also through internal physical transformations over the last decades. These have created entirely new kinds of fabric. With these changes, the elements of urban form have changed. Plots and open spaces have been transformed into building areas, open squares into car parks, low land and water bodies into reclaimed built-up lands etc. This research has its general interest in the morphologic change of Dhaka City. It focuses on the spatial dynamics of urban growth of Dhaka over the last 55 years from 1952-2007. In the research, the transformation of urban form has been examined through space syntax. The aim behind using this technique is to describe aspects of relationships between the morphological structure of man-made environments and social structures and events. To conduct this research, Wards 49 and 72 of Dhaka City Corporation were selected as the study areas, of which Ward 72 is an indigenous and Ward 49 is a planned type of settlement. Being a planned residential area, the syntactic measures from this morphological analysis are showing quite unchanged and high values in all phases for Ward 49 and the physical characteristics of Ward 72 (Old Dhaka) still represent the past. The syntactic values are found to be higher for Ward 72 and than Ward 49. Higher values indicate that the street network is highly connective among each other. Time affects differently the layout of cities and the architecture of buildings. Of the many human creations, street systems are among the most resistant to change. This has been emphasized in this study, thereby facilitating the comparison of urban layouts across space and time. The interpretation of history in the light of quantitative accounts, as demonstrated in this study, will be of value to urban planners and urban designers for the future planning of modern Dhaka City.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9554  Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 30-38
Drainage Planning in the Cities of Bangladesh: Case Study of Drainage and Water Logging in Chaktai Commercial area, Chittagong
Authors: Ashraf M Ali , Chowdhury Md Shariful Alam
Published: January 2012

For quite some time, professional planning is being practiced in our cities. Unfortunately, drainage planning is the most neglected component of our city planning and management activities. Drainage engineering is done mostly on an ad hoc basis, often overtaking drainage planning. To understand the drainage problem of our cities, Chittagong in particular, Chaktai Commercial Area was identified as the case study area for further exploration and analysis. This case study examines the existing situation, assessing causes behind the problems, inquiring about the likings and disliking of the stakeholders, and identifying possible solutions as an essential input towards arriving at appropriate planning decisions. It identifies the guiding principles relating to the effective integration of a drainage network in the land use plan for the city. Considering physical characteristics, topography, catchment area and the routes of existing drainage channels, the urban area has been divided into 10 drainage areas. The Master plan sets out a staged development program of storm water, drainage and flood control works of the above drainage area up to the year 2015 to meet the Storm Water Drainage and Flood Control problems. Chaktai is the major seat of trade and commerce in Chittagong. It is observed that though Chaktai has lost its past glory as a national business centre controlling food business in the whole country, still it has retained its importance as a regional business hub and is continuing to contribute significantly to the national economy. The study thus helps us understand the nature, type and magnitude of the drainage and water logging problems faced by the city dwellers. The policy proposals and recommendations that are provided in the paper could be considered while preparing a land use plan for a city.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9556  Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 49-60
Paradox between Public Transport and Private Car as a Modal Choice in Policy Formulation
Authors: Anwar AHM Mehbub
Published: January 2012

This paper presents the stance towards modal choice behavior between public transport and private car. To find out the probable solutions, this paper investigated the latent attitudes of the trip makers concerning modal choice between private car and public transport and the advantages and disadvantages of these two modes as a choice. It was also discussed in this paper that the public transport usage can be increased if the service of public transport is designed in a way that accommodates the level of services required by the customers. Even though, several factors, such as individual characteristics and lifestyle, the type of journey, length of trip, the apparent service performance etc. of each transport mode play the significant role for the modal choice in the transport sector. It was also focused in this paper that the influence of car usage should be targeted to reduce car usage.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9568  Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 71-77
Land Information System (LIS) for Land Administration and Management in Bangladesh
Authors: Nahrin Kasphia , Rahman M Shafiq-Ur
Published: January 2012

Bangladesh has a very high population density. Scarce land and the rapid increase of population of the country are creating high pressure over land-man ratio. Land ownership record system is insufficient and incomplete in Bangladesh. As a result, it spills out jumbled and spontaneous land development throughout the country, especially in the major cities. In this situation, it is important to establish a compatible land administration and management system for establishing a systematic approach for planned land development. Land Information System (LIS) is the most accountable and feasible systematic approach for developing an up-to-date land administration and management. LIS is related to various quantitative and qualitative aspects of land resource. Holding different cartographic information, LIS facilitates capturing, retrieval, and querying of information and provides tools to perform different analyses. Based on the secondary information by literature review, this paper is aimed at studying the existing land administration system, and recommending feasible interventions and strategy of LIS for creating an efficient land administration and management policy for Bangladesh. This paper also focuses on the challenges of LIS that are needed to be resolved for framing the existing land administration and management policy for planned and controlled growth of Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9572Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 116-125
Problems and Prospects of Municipal Holding Taxation System: A Study on Bhairab Pourashava
Authors: Huda Md Samiul , Hasan Muhammad Rashidul
Published: January 2012

Local governments in Bangladesh have several options at hand to finance their activities and pursue their fiscal policy. These options include the imposition of taxes and the generation of non-tax revenues through fees, levies, cost recovery and user charges, property and investment income, domestic and foreign borrowing, the sale of assets and domestic and foreign grants. Urban Local Governments (ULGs) in developing countries are in dire need of resources not only for investment to meet the increasing demand of growing urban population but also for maintenance of the existing services. But the resources of the municipal bodies are inadequate; infrastructures are in poor condition and services maintenance is neither enough nor would cover the new expansions. Inefficient governance of the municipal bodies is partly responsible for this. Holding tax plays an important role in own revenue of Pourashavas. About 35-45% revenue comes from holding tax. But in Bhairab Pourashava it contributes only 18-20%. Every year, its demands and collection are decreasing. Many factors are responsible for this. This study tries to find out the problems of holding tax collection and assessment. Pourashava requires to pay more attention to solve these problems. If the amount of holding tax is increased, this will help Pourashava gradually become self-financed.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9573  Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 126-135
Population Evacuation Need Assessment in Cyclone Affected Barguna District
Authors: Tamima Umma
Published: January 2012

Spatial difference in geophysical risk and social vulnerability presents challenges to emergency planners to develop an effective evacuation strategy for cyclone zones. This study examines spatial variability in evacuation assistance needs during cyclone hazard in Barguna district. For this, composite vulnerability map of unions in Barguna district is developed based on the community demographics, resources, structures and geophysical risk indicators. Four evacuation dimensions are analyzed based on population traits and building structures index, differential access to resources index, special evacuation needs index and a combination of three dimensions. Results indicate that relative majority of the unions are characterized by high evacuation assistance need and similar scenario exists in the spatial distribution of geophysical risk and socio-economic vulnerability. Nevertheless, spatial disparity of socioeconomic vulnerability is also observed among the unions within the geophysical risk zone. The coastal unions of Barguna districts are identified as the geophysical risk zone of which Raihanpur, Bardarkhali, Keorabunia, Burir Char, Amtali, Haldia, Arpagashia, Barguna, Dhalua, Kakchira, Nachnapara, Kantaltali, Char Duanti, Kalmegha, Patharghata, Barabagi, Karaibaria, Pancha Karalia, Naltona, and Baliatali unions are within the high geophysical risk zone. Furthermore, depending on the indices it is revealed that 72.26 percent people are living within the geophysical risk zone, while 17.72 percent and 47.42 percent people are living within the high and medium socio-economic vulnerable regions respectively. Thus this study finds out that about 65.14 percent people of Barguna district require evacuation assistance needs.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9575Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 145-157
Local Adaptation Strategies of a Coastal Community during Cyclone Sidr and their Vulnerability Analysis for Sustainable Disaster Mitigation Planning in Bangladesh
Authors: Mallick Bishaw Jit , Witte Sebastian Marcel , Sarkar Raju , Mahboob Apurba Swatee , Vogt Joachim
Published: January 2012

Social vulnerability to disasters refers to the inability of a society and it’s people to withstand adverse impacts from multiple stresses to which they are exposed. Using a combination of geographical and social research methods, this paper examines the people’s (re)action and responses during cyclone Sidr 2007 at Baniasanta union of Dacope Upazila in Bangladesh. Finding shows that their adopted strategies to cope with cyclone address their vulnerability and it is necessary to integrate their local wisdom of living with unnatural situation into the future planning and development process of the coastal belt. Accordingly, the plans and development should not only be necessity, but also be accepted by the local community.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9576  Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 158-168
Setting Planning Standards for Public Facilities in a City: A Case Study of Ward 50 of Dhaka City Corporation
Authors: Islam Mohammad Atikul
Published: January 2012

Availability of different types of public facilities within an urban area is required to achieve specific objectives in urban planning. Planning standards are necessary in such cases to help achieve the adequacy and quality in services and facilities. To improve the situation in rapid and unplanned growth of Dhaka city both in terms of population and size, it demands a large amount of public facilities such as open spaces, playgrounds, schools, hospitals etc. School is an important public facility that requires setting standards and choosing appropriate locations. Standard of school facilities in an area depends upon factors such as, density of population, number of per family school going children, road network etc. This paper explores the existing facilities of primary and secondary schools for school going children in Ward 50 of Dhaka City Corporation. A series of field survey were conducted in order to collect information from primary sources, and standards on school facilities were collected from secondary sources. Based on the findings, suggestions on future planning of school facilities have been made in this paper. Finally, to justify the standards for schools facilities, DMDP planning standards are followed.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbip.v2i0.9577Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners Vol. 2, December 2009, pp. 169-178
Cumulative Risk Assessment: An Overview of Methodological Approaches for Evaluating Combined Health Effects from Exposure to Multiple Environmental Stressors
Authors: Sexton Ken
Published: January 2012

Systematic evaluation of cumulative health risks from the combined effects of multiple environmental stressors is becoming a vital component of risk-based decisions aimed at protecting human populations and communities. This article briefly examines the historical development of cumulative risk assessment as an analytical tool, and discusses current approaches for evaluating cumulative health effects from exposure to both chemical mixtures and combinations of chemical and nonchemical stressors. A comparison of stressor-based and effects-based assessment methods is presented, and the potential value of focusing on viable risk management options to limit the scope of cumulative evaluations is discussed. The ultimate goal of cumulative risk assessment is to provide answers to decision-relevant questions based on organized scientific analysis; even if the answers, at least for the time being, are inexact and uncertain.
Physical Activity and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease—A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Li Jian , Siegrist Johannes
Published: January 2012

In order to update and improve available evidence on associations of physical activity (PA) with cardiovascular disease (CVD) by applying meta-analytic random effects modeling to data from prospective cohort studies, using high quality criteria of study selection, we searched the PubMed database from January 1980 to December 2010 for prospective cohort studies of PA and incident CVD, distinguishing occupational PA and leisure time PA, coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, respectively. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed English papers with original data, studies with large sample size (n ≥ 1,000) and substantial follow-up (≥5 years), available data on major confounders and on estimates of relative risk (RR) or hazard ratio (HR), with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We included 21 prospective studies in the overall analysis, with a sample size of more than 650,000 adults who were initially free from CVD, and with some 20,000 incident cases documented during follow-up. Among men, RR of overall CVD in the group with the high level of leisure time PA was 0.76 (95% CI 0.70–0.82, p < 0.001), compared to the reference group with low leisure time PA, with obvious dose-response relationship. A similar effect was observed among women (RR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.68–0.78, p < 0.001). A strong protective effect of occupational PA was observed for moderate level in both men (RR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.82–0.97, p = 0.008) and women (RR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.67–1.03, p = 0.089). No publication bias was observed. Our findings suggest that high level of leisure time PA and moderate level of occupational PA have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health by reducing the overall risk of incident coronary heart disease and stroke among men and women by 20 to 30 percent and 10 to 20 percent, respectively. This evidence from high quality studies supports efforts of primary and secondary prevention of CVD in economically advanced as well as in rapidly developing countries.
Comment les pays émergents se sont-ils développés économiquement ? La perspective de l'économie politique
Authors: Thiébault Jean-Louis
Published: January 2012

Résumé Tous les pays émergents ont connu le passage entre un modèle de développement économique conduit par l’Etat et tourné vers l’intérieur et un autre modèle, mettant davantage l’accent sur le marché et l’ ouverture au commerce extérieur et à l’investissement étranger. Toutefois le rôle de l’Etat n’a pas disparu. L’Etat est resté l’acteur essentiel dans l’émergence économique de ces pays. Leur réussite ne peut s’expliquer que par le rôle particulier joué traditionnellement par l’Etat dans ce type de pays, surtout en Asie et, à un degré moindre, en Amérique Latine
La Chine face au grand jeu du G20 et de la gouvernance mondiale
Authors: Tiberghien Yves
Published: January 2012

Résumé Le monde est au beau milieu d’une transformation historique. Nous faisons face en parallèle à l’urgence de stabilisation du régime financier global et du changement climatique, défis exigeant plus de gouvernance mondiale. En même temps, la période de 2000 à 2030 est marquée par un basculement du pouvoir économique mondial des pays de l’OCDE vers les pays émergents et surtout des acteurs asiatiques. Chine, Inde et Brésil en sont les bénéficiaires principaux. Comment, dès lors, évaluer le rôle de la Chine dans le jeu clef de la gouvernance mondiale, à savoir le G20 ? Cet article montre que la Chine, propulsée sur le devant de la scène globale plus rapidement que prévu, suit une approche pragmatique, graduelle, et diverse face aux différents sujets du G20. Ceci est le résultat d’un système de gouvernance interne fragmenté et pluraliste et d’une transition au sommet de son leadership politique. La Chine cherche à stabiliser le système mondial, tout en augmentant sa voix dans les institutions internationales, mais en évitant de s’engager trop vite dans des institutions qu’elle ne contrôle pas encore. La Chine développe des liens à la fois du côté BRICS et du côté européen. L’article utilise des données primaires et des entretiens de terrain pour analyser le rôle de la Chine sur plusieurs débats du G20.
Tel Janus : les deux faces du Brésil émergent
Authors: Faucher Philippe
Published: January 2012

Résumé Le Brésil en “émergence” se caractérise par une croissance économique soutenue et par une présence affirmée sur la scène internationale. La croissance économique des dernières années est l’expression de la consolidation démocratique et de la stabilité macro-économique dans une conjoncture internationale porteuse. Des interventions très calibrées des autorités monétaires ont permis au Brésil de traverser la crise financière internationale de 2008 sans trop de heurts. Les politiques de redistributions implantées depuis la fin des années 1990 donnent des fruits. La pauvreté est en régression. Longtemps absent, le Brésil s’affirme sur la scène internationale. Ses exigences concernant le renouvellement des rapports Nord-Sud, ses revendications pour une démocratie accrue des instances internationales, les alliances avec les pays en développement et son engagement dans des opérations de maintien de la paix, témoignent d’une affirmation qui ébranle et séduit la communauté internationale. Le pays demeure marqué par des inégalités sociales profondes et les tensions correspondantes. La croissance facilite les arbitrages. Maintenir le cap sur les réformes sans accentuer l’instabilité est le grand défi des successeurs de Lula.