bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipoprotein MtsA of MtsABC in Streptococcus pyogenes primarily binds ferrous ion with bicarbonate as a synergistic anion
Authors: Sun Xuesong , Ge Ruiguang , Chiu Jen-Fu , Sun Hongzhe , He Qing-Yu
Published: March 2008

Lipoprotein MtsA is a critical component of MtsABC responsible for iron binding and transport in the Gram‐positive bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes. The present collective experimental data establish that Fe2+ is the primary binding ion for MtsA under optimal physiologically relevant conditions. The binding affinities of MtsA to metal ions are Fe2+
> Fe3+
>Cu2+
> Mn2+
> Zn2+. We report for the first time that bicarbonate is required as a synergistic anion for stable ferrous binding to MtsA, similar to the iron binding in human transferrin. This work provides valuable information, which helps to understand iron metabolism in bacteria, and creates a basis for developing strategies to suppress bacterial infection.
Transient and distortion product evoked oto‐acoustic emissions in normal hearing patients with and without tinnitus
Authors: Granjeiro Ronaldo C. , Kehrle Helga M. , Bezerra Roberta L. , Almeida Vanessa F. , André L. L. Sampaio , Oliveira Carlos A.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To test the hypothesis that tinnitus begins with outer hair cell dysfunction by recording transient (TEOAE) and distortion product evoked (DPOAE) oto‐acoustic emissions in patients with normal hearing with (study group, SG) and without tinnitus (control group, CG).

Study Design

Case control study.

Subjects and Methods

SG had 32 patients with pure tone thresholds below 25 dB in the 500 to 8000 Hz interval. CG had 37 age‐ and gender‐matched patients with similar thresholds. All patients had normal tympanograms and stapedial reflexes. TEOAE were recorded with wide band click in continuous mode at 80‐dB peak SPL. DPOAE were recorded with f1/f2 = 1.22 and intensities of 65 dB (f1) and 55 dB (f2) SPL.

Results

DPOAE were abnormal in 68.4% of SG and in 50% of CG (P = 0.036). TEOAE were abnormal in 70.2% of SG and in 16.10% of CG (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

SG had significantly higher prevalence of abnormal TEOAE and DPOAE than CG.
Microdebrider vs electrocautery: A comparison of tonsillar wound healing histopathology in a canine model
Authors: Johnson Kaalan , Vaughan Andrew , Derkay Craig , Welch J. Camille , Werner Alice , Kuhn M. Ann , Singletary Sylvia , Bondy Peter
Published: March 2008

Objective

To evaluate tonsillar wound healing histopathology in a canine model following microdebrider intracapsular and electrocautery tonsillectomy techniques.

Study Design

Randomized, controlled, single‐blinded, paired comparison of histopathology.

Subjects and Methods

Twelve beagles underwent tonsillectomies by microdebrider on one side and electrocautery on the other. Punch biopsies were taken of the tonsillar fossae on postoperative days 3, 9, and 20. Specimens were graded with a novel mucosal wound healing scale (inter‐rater reliability, r = 0.83) and appropriate statistical analysis performed.

Results

Combined mucosal wound healing scale scores showed significantly faster healing on the microdebrider side when compared to the electrocautery side on postoperative day 3 and day 9 (P > 0.05), which equalized by day 20.

Conclusion

In a canine model of tonsillar wound healing, microdebrider intracapsular tonsillectomy produced significantly faster healing than electrocautery tonsillectomy in the early postoperative course. The “biologic dressing” theory of intracapsular tonsillectomy wound healing may account for observed differences in healing and suggests a mechanism for improved clinical outcomes.
Optical coherence tomography of the larynx in the awake patient
Authors: Sepehr Ali , Armstrong William B. , Guo Shuguang , Su Jianping , Perez Jorge , Chen Zhonping , Wong Brian J.F.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To demonstrate the feasibility of performing optical coherence tomography of the human larynx on the awake patient with a novel flexible fiberoptic delivery system.

Study Design

Prospective clinical trial.

Subjects and Methods

Imaging was performed in 17 awake patients. A flexible optical coherence tomography probe was inserted through the nose and placed in near or gentle contact with laryngeal tissues under direct endoscopic visualization.

Results

Images were successfully obtained from all laryngeal subsites and clearly identified laryngeal mucosal microanatomy. Several critical probe design modifications improved rotational and angular control of the distal tip while allowing linear translation of the probe and allowing more accurate apposition of the probe onto target tissues, which is critical for transnasal laryngeal imaging.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of awake transnasal laryngeal optical coherence tomography and identifies key instrumentation needed to obtain useful images.
Petrous apex cholesterol granuloma aeration: Does it matter?
Authors: Castillo Michael P. , Samy Ravi N. , Isaacson Brandon , Roland Peter S.
Published: March 2008

Objective

To determine whether aeration of surgically treated petrous apex cholesterol granulomas (PA CG) has any correlation with resolution of symptoms.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Subjects

Twenty‐six patients with a petrous apex cholesterol granuloma during a 16‐year period were reviewed.

Results

Seventeen of 26 (65%) patients underwent surgical intervention. Preoperative symptoms included headache, facial weakness/twitching or numbness, vertigo, hearing loss, vision changes, and tinnitus. Postoperative symptoms resolved in 9 of the 16 patients (56%). Three patients had a postoperative headache. Facial nerve dysfunction persisted or recurred in four patients. One patient was lost to follow‐up. Thirteen patients had postoperative imaging. All 13 (100%) patients demonstrated stable or increased size of PA CG with no evidence of aeration. Revision surgery was performed in four patients (25%) for facial nerve symptoms or persistent headaches.

Conclusion

The extent of PA CG aeration on postoperative imaging had no correlation to symptom resolution or cyst enlargement. Revision surgery should not depend on imaging alone but primarily on patient symptoms and physical exam.
Combined temporal and prefrontal transcranial magnetic stimulation for tinnitus treatment: A pilot study
Authors: Kleinjung Tobias , Eichhammer Peter , Landgrebe Michael , Sand Philipp , Hajak Goeran , Steffens Thomas , Strutz Juergen , Langguth Berthold
Published: March 2008

Objectives

Low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the temporal cortex has been proposed as a new treatment strategy for patients with chronic tinnitus. However, functional abnormalities in tinnitus patients also involve brain structures used for attentional and emotional processing, such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Therefore, we have developed a new rTMS treatment strategy for tinnitus patients that consists of a combination of high‐frequency prefrontal and low‐frequency temporal rTMS.

Study Design

A total of 32 patients received either low‐frequency temporal rTMS or a combination of high‐frequency prefrontal and low‐frequency temporal rTMS. Treatment effects were assessed with a standardized tinnitus questionnaire (TQ).

Results

Directly after therapy there was an improvement of the TQ‐score for both groups, but no differences between groups. An evaluation after 3 months revealed a remarkable benefit from the use of combined prefrontal and temporal rTMS treatment.

Conclusion

These results support recent data that suggest that auditory and nonauditory brain areas are involved in tinnitus pathophysiology.
Erbium: yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet laser stapedotomy—A safe technique
Authors: Parrilla Claudio , Galli Jacopo , Fetoni Anna Rita , Rigante Mario , Paludetti Gaetano
Published: March 2008

Objective

To standardize the technical parameters of the erbium: yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Er:YAG) laser stapedotomy.

Study Design

Retrospective study of all patients with otosclerosis who underwent stapedotomy from January 2002 to January 2006.

Subjects and Methods

The charts of 152 consecutive patients who underwent stapedotomy were reviewed. The patients were stratified into two groups, according to the instrument used. Stapedotomies were performed in group A, with the OPMI®TwinEr: YAG laser; and in group B with manual microperforators.

Results

No statistically significant differences were found over all measured frequencies, between pre‐ and postoperative bone conduction thresholds, in each group. At the last postoperative follow‐up, vertigo and nystagmus were not detected; two patients in group A and one patient in group B showed persistent tinnitus.

Conclusion

Er:YAG laser stapedotomy is a safe and effective procedure, with no damage of the inner ear when strict adherence to the safety parameters is observed. The Er:YAG laser is definitively suitable for stapes surgery, and represents a useful and safe tool in the armamentarium of otological microsurgery.
Factors associated with perception of singing voice handicap
Authors: Cohen Seth M. , Noordzij J. Pieter , Garrett C. Gaelyn , Ossoff Robert H.
Published: March 2008

Objective

This study will determine factors that influence the self‐perceived handicap associated with singing voice problems.

Study Design

A prospective cohort.

Subject and Methods

Singers presenting to a voice clinic prospectively completed the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI) before evaluation and treatment. Demographic data, singing style, professional status, duration of symptoms, medical problems, and diagnosis were collected. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed.

Results

One hundred seventy‐one singers completed the SVHI. The duration of symptoms, being an amateur singer or singing teacher, benign vocal fold lesions, and neurologic voice disorders were associated with increased SVHI scores (P > 0.05, multiple linear regression). Age greater than 50 years and gospel singing were predictive of increased SVHI scores only on univariate analysis (P > 0.05, t test).

Conclusion

Singers experience significant handicap as a result of their singing problems with certain factors associated with greater impairment. Targeting interventions at patients more severely affected may improve outcomes.
TIME TO MOVE ON: A REPLY TO JEAN-PAUL BRUNET
Authors: HOUSE JIM , MACMASTER NEIL
Published: March 2008

In the General Introduction and Conclusion to our book, Paris 1961: Algerians, state terror, and memory, we argue that the time has come to move beyond the current phase of political battle, the fixed-position trench warfare, over the events of ‘17 October’ for a more open history that can begin to address some wider and more fruitful questions. At the core of the polemic during the last decade has been the almost obsessive ‘battle of numbers’ that has raged between the maximalist Jean-Luc Einaudi (200–300+ deaths at the hands of the police) and the minimalist Jean-Paul Brunet (at most 30–50 deaths, but only 13 conclusively ‘proven’). In replying to Jean-Paul Brunet, we shall discuss two substantive issues: the nature of the evidence and its interpretation, and inevitably the question of the number of fatalities.
Diet, reproduction, settlement and growth ofPalio dubia(Nudibranchia: Polyceridae) in the north-west Atlantic
Authors: Hamel Jean-François , Sargent Philip , Mercier Annie
Published: March 2008

Egg masses, juveniles and adults of the gastropodPalio dubiawere found in shallow rocky habitats of eastern Canada dominated by the bryozoanEucratea loricata. Multiple-choice experiments and direct field observations revealed thatP. dubiaprefers to feed onE. loricata. Courtship, copulation and egg-laying as well as hatching ofP. dubiawere closely related to the lunar cycle. Reproduction was preceded by increased pairing and aggregative behaviour. The duration of embryonic development in the capsules was 10–15 d. After hatching, most veligers were retained within the bryozoan branches during their pelagic phase (1–3 d). In multiple-choice experiments, settlement occurred preferentially on the bryozoanE. loricata. In the absence of the preferred substratum, the larvae continued to swim and died after a period that never exceeded 8 d. Juveniles remained associated with the bryozoans on which they settled and reached the adult size in ~3 months.
New contribution on spatial and seasonal variability of environmental conditions of the Golfo San Jorge benthic system, Argentina
Authors: Fernández Mónica , Mora José , Roux Ana , Cucchi Colleoni Daniel A. , Gasparoni Juan C.
Published: March 2008

A new contribution on spatial and seasonal variability of physico-chemical parameters of the Golfo San Jorge benthic system from autumn 2001 through summer to 2002 is presented. Temperature, salinity, density, oxygen content and chlorophyll-a in bottom water as well as concentration of total organic matter, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chlorophyll-a and phaeopigments in sediments were analysed. The origin and nutritional value of the deposited organic matter were also assessed. The results reflect the existence of: (1) a typical temperate water seasonal cycle; (2) a bimodal cycle in the phytoplanktonic production; and (3) seasonal variations in the chemical variables and in organic matter origin in sediments.

Three sectors which geographically correspond with those identified in previous studies were defined: (1) the inner area of the gulf; (2) the areas next to the north and south extremes; and (3) the coastal and south-east part.
Lack of genetic evidence for the subspeciation ofPisaster ochraceus(Echinodermata: Asteroidea) in the north-eastern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Frontana-Uribe Sarita , de la Rosa-Vélez Jorge , Enríquez-Paredes Luis , Ladah Lydia B. , Sanvicente-Añorve Laura
Published: March 2008

The existence of twoPisaster ochraceussubspecies has been proposed; one located northwards (P. ochraceus ochraceus)and the other southwards(Pisaster ochraceus segnis) from Point Conception. We used polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism of the CO I and CO III mitochondrial genes to assess the degree of population structure from 126 samples collected along the western coast of North America, from Vancouver, Canada to Punta San Carlos, of Baja California, Mexico. The genetic structure was tested through molecular analysis of variance and by Monte Carlo simulations of the original data set. The phylogeographical pattern was deduced from a minimum spanning network analysis. No genetic structure was detected. Instead, a high degree of genetic homogeneity along the species distribution was evident from haplotype frequencies at each location. Two haplotypes,Po1andPo5, were predominant along the distribution and were considered ancestral because of their central position in the minimum spanning network. SincePisaster ochraceusdepicts a planktotrophic larval stage with very long duration before settlement, it seems to be able to surpass the biogeographical boundary that limits other species around Point Conception, thereby maintaining homogeneity of its genetic pool. Results of this study recognizeP. ochraceusas a single species.
Gastric mill morphology in the genusCyrtograpsus(Crustacea: Decapoda: Grapsoidea: Varunidae)
Authors: Huespe A.V. , Gómez-Simes E. , Pastor-de-Ward C.T.
Published: March 2008

The gastric mill on the genusCyrtograpsus(Varunidae) has not been described previously. A morphological comparative study of the gastric mill ossicles within its species (C. angulatus,C. altimanusandC. affinis) was carried out. This research attempts to give new evidence to validate the existence of these three species and to serve as a guide to identify them. Urocardiac (dorsal median tooth shape), zygocardiac (shape and number of ridges and molar processes—cusps and plates—and their arrangement in the lateral teeth) and pectineal (number and shape of accessory teeth) ossicles, and cardiopyloric valve descriptions and comparisons are based on microscopical, stereomicroscopical, scanning electron microscope observations, and digital images. Morphological differences found in zygocardiac (lateral teeth) and urocardiac (dorsal-median tooth) ossicles allow to identify species. Considering these ossicles morphology inC. altimanusandC. affinisit can be concluded that the studied specimens belong to a single species as stated in morphometric and molecular comparative studies of the above species. These new data validate the existence of only two species (C. affinisandC. angulatus). This information will also be useful to recognize the species in the stomach content of their predators throughout the ossicles morphology.
Metazoan parasites in an intermediate host population near its southern border: the common cockle (Cerastoderma edule) and its trematodes in a Moroccan coastal lagoon (Merja Zerga)
Authors: Gam Mériame , Bazaïri Hocein , Jensen K. Thomas , de Montaudouin Xavier
Published: March 2008

The metazoan parasite community of Cerastoderma edule was studied in the southern geographical range of the host (the coastal lagoon Merja Zerga, Morocco). A total of 11 metazoan species was found in cockles. Nine of these were trematodes using cockles as either first intermediate host (three species) or second intermediate host (six species). In addition, two other endo-metazoan species (Pinnotheres pisum and Paravortex cardii) were recorded from cockles in the studied lagoon. All the observed metazoans in cockles from Merja Zerga have previously been recorded at sites north of Africa.

Up to 10% of the cockles in the studied size-groups were first intermediate hosts to castrating parasites (Gymnophallus choledochus, Labratrema minimus and Monorchis parvus). Among trematodes having metacercariae in cockles (second intermediate host) Meiogymnophallus minutus was the most widespread as it was observed in all cockles from all the examined habitats in the lagoon and it occurred in record high intensities. Different sub-communities of the trematode fauna using cockles as second intermediate host could be identified (subtidal vs intertidal associations).

The richness and species composition of the macroparasite community in cockles from Morocco are discussed in relation to patterns seen in cockles from other sites along their geographical range. Migratory fish and waterbirds (final hosts) are generally responsible for the large scale spread (latitudinal spread) of trematodes. However, the distributional patterns of involved intermediate hosts in the life-cycles of the different trematode species in cockles are determining the richness and species composition patterns seen in cockles at shallow water sites along the east Atlantic shoreline.
Determination of Routing Velocity with GPS Floating Car Data and WebGIS-Based Instantaneous Traffic Information Dissemination
Authors: Liu Chun , Meng Xiaolin , Fan Yeming
Published: March 2008

The acquisition of accurate and timely traffic information is a vital precondition to rational traffic decision making. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are bound to be the outcome when modern traffic systems develop to a high degree. In ITS, instantaneous traffic information can be collected by the Floating Car Data (FCD) method. Based on the establishment of the Shenzhen Urban Transportation Simulation System (SUTSS) in China, the authors explored how to use 4000 taxis as the data collection sensors in Shenzhen, a southern city in China which borders Hong Kong. The authors introduce the procedures and algorithms for the computation and map-matching of road segment velocities to a digital road network. To superimpose the near real-time traffic information onto a digital map, coordinate transformation is required and the transformation precision is analyzed using field testing data. Due to the nature of FCD, continuous GPS data such as routing velocities and coordinates can be collected by any GPS equipped vehicle. Therefore, relevant algorithms are developed and utilized for the map-matching according to probability and statistical theories. To evaluate the reliability of proposed map-matching method, the confidence levels are calculated statistically, from which it can be determined whether the positioning data is valid or not with predefined threshold values. Furthermore, road segment velocity matching methods based on the Metropolis criteria is extended and relevant validation is carried out through the comparison of estimated and measured results. The major objective of this method is to obtain more accurate road segment travel time through the combination of those estimated by FCD and historical ones. This can significantly improve the reliability of instantaneous traffic information before its web publication. The final part of this paper introduces the architecture and the realization of a web Geographical Information System (GIS) and FCD-based instantaneous traffic information dissemination system for the whole of Shenzhen City.
Experimental Analysis of GPS/Pseudolite/INS Integration for Aircraft Precision Approach and Landing
Authors: Lee Hung-Kyu , Soon Ben , Barnes Joel , Wang Jinling , Rizos Chris
Published: March 2008

This paper analyses flight trial results to study the overall performance and limitations of a GPS/Pseudolite/INS integration approach for aircraft precision approach and landing applications. For this purpose, the series of approaches were flown at Wedderburn Airfield, Australia. The analysed results show that pseudolite signals strengthen the ranging signal availability and the satellite geometry. Most of the geometry enhancement is found in the vertical position component, improving the accuracy of the aircraft's altitude. Furthermore, the results reveal that the inclusion of a pseudolite enhances both internal and external reliabilities. A dramatic improvement of the external reliability in the vertical component is observed.
Breast radiotherapy: a single centre survey of non-medical weekly patient review
Authors: McIlroy P. , McIntyre A. , Ross A. , Gallagher C. , Brown C.
Published: March 2008

Aims: Monitoring and reviewing patients during adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer is an integral component of care and was until recently a predominantly medical domain. Patients were often reviewed in busy routine breast clinics, for short consultations with a variety of medical staff and with little time to address questions or concerns. Non-medical treatment review clinics, staffed by senior nursing and senior therapy radiographers have been introduced to provide a dedicated, consistent treatment review. This survey was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the non-medical review of these patients.

Materials and methods: This was a prospective survey of all patients attending for breast or chest wall radiotherapy, between 1st July 2003 and 30th June 2004. Patients were invited to complete and return a postal questionnaire related to their treatment and treatment review. Review staff collected data on demographic information, clinical history and treatment intent for these patients at first visit. At subsequent weekly review visits, data were recorded relating to patient assessment, interventions and referrals initiated. Skin reactions were graded using Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scoring tool.

Results: One thousand and ninety-five patient questionnaires were distributed and 865 (79%) were returned. There were high satisfaction scores with the time spent with review staff (99.7%) and the ability to discuss all aspects of treatment and concerns (99.1%). One hundred and ninety-three patients were referred to non-medical staff for additional support. Five hundred and forty-four were referred to medical staff. The majority (437) were planned referrals to their clinical oncologist to prescribe a ‘boost’ or review endocrine treatment and 107 to their general practitioner for routine visits and employment certificates. Review staff data of 1,067 patients showed 342 referrals for treatment and non-treatment related physical problems, 80 referrals for additional information and emotional support. Majority of skin reactions were grade 1 or 2a.

Conclusion: The successful identification of patients’ supportive needs and high patient satisfaction with this service supports the use of this approach.
Role development for therapy radiographers in breast planning: a case study and discussion of influencing factors
Authors: Welgemoed C.
Published: March 2008

Purpose:The purpose of this case study is to discuss factors that have an influence on the process of role development in radiotherapy breast planning.

Key themes:This article describes the process of development as experienced by the author and discusses factors that hindered the process of role development. These factors include development of a career plan, professional issues, resources, organisational structures, support from consultants, managers, multi-disciplinary, and professional colleagues and peer resistance.

Conclusion:The author makes recommendations that may contribute to improving the role development strategy in the profession and aid successful implementation of advanced practitioner and consultant roles for those radiographers who aspire to the consultant radiographer role in future. The article concludes that there is a need to identify, standardise and coordinate role development for therapy radiographers nationally to increase the appointment of more consultant radiographers.
Regularity‐based functional streamflow disaggregation: 2. Extended demonstration
Authors: Carl P. , Gerlinger K. , Hattermann F. F. , Krysanova V. , Schilling C. , Behrendt H.
Published: March 2008

Within the scope of a program to empirically assess the pathways across large river systems of substances from diffuse sources, a method has been proposed and demonstrated in part 1 of blind functional streamflow disaggregation (FSD). It yields fast, transient, and (s)low conceptual, parallel component flows. We apply the technique here to German and Austrian gauging stations from watersheds of the Elbe and Danube basins, covering geomorphologic conditions from lowlands to alpine. Potential relations to the classical concept of river runoff composition (base flow, interflow, and overland flow) are evaluated by contrasting FSD analyses with direct rainfall‐runoff syntheses using the distributed models Large Area Runoff Simulation Model (LARSIM), Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), and Soil and Water Integrated Model (SWIM). The material is supplemented in part by another empirical technique, Differentielle Ganglinien‐Analyse (DIFGA), and by the Hydrologiska Byrans Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV) model in a lumped mode. Blind FSD in its shortcut version turns out to be competitive in general with the simulations consulted. A moderately higher surface and subsurface flow diversification, however, like the one borne in a “greedy” FSD process, is indicated. We shed a glance in passing at further useful applications, from supporting hydrologic modeling to tracing climatic signatures in internal changes of the terrestrial hydrologic cycle.
An accuracy assessment of the fan wavelet coherence method for elastic thickness estimation
Authors: Kirby J. F. , Swain C. J.
Published: March 2008

A variety of methods exist to estimate the elastic thickness (Te) of the lithosphere. In this contribution, we attempt to provide an indication of how well the fan wavelet coherence method recovers Te, through synthetic modeling. The procedure involves simulating initial topographic and subsurface loads and emplacing them on a thin elastic plate of known Te, generating the postloading topography and gravity. We then attempt to recover that Te distribution from the gravity and topography through the wavelet method, hence discovering where its strengths and weaknesses lie. The Te distributions we use here have elliptical and fractal geometries, while the initial loads are fractal. Importantly, we have found that this widely used synthetic loading calibration method will tend to result in underestimates of Te no matter which recovery method is used. This is due to random correlations between the initial loads which, on average, serve to increase their coherence at all wavelengths and spatial locations. For the fan wavelet method, the degree of underestimation from this “background” source is approximately 10% of the true Te. In addition, the fan wavelet coherence method will provide underestimates of (1) the true Te when the study area size is of the order of the highest flexural wavelength or less, (2) relative Te differences when the Te anomaly is narrow compared to its flexural wavelength, and (3) steep Te gradients. Significantly, we find that the recovery is not greatly affected by the assumption of uniform Te in the inversion of the coherence. We also find that Te recovery from the coherence is only weakly dependent upon the initial subsurface‐to‐surface loading ratio (f). In contrast to the coherence, Te recovery from the admittance is highly “noisy,” with discontinuities and overestimates of Te frequently arising. This is most likely due to the high sensitivity of the admittance to f and is likely to apply to real data as well.
Three‐dimensional MHD modeling of the global corona throughout solar cycle 23
Authors: Hu Y. Q. , Feng X. S. , Wu S. T. , Song W. B.
Published: March 2008

Based on the space‐time conservation element and solution element (CESE) method, we have recently developed a novel 3D magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model for the solar corona and interplanetary study. Our aim here is to describe the application of this new MHD model to study the global coronal magnetic structures by using the observed line‐of‐sight photospheric magnetic field from the Wilcox Solar Observatory (WSO) as boundary conditions. With this model, the magnetic structures of the global corona are obtained for fifteen Carrington Rotations (CRs) spanning solar cycle 23. The results illustrate how the shape and location of the heliospheric current sheet (HCS) and the coronal magnetic field configuration evolve during the course of the solar cycle. Comparison between our numerical results for the coronal magnetic structures and those from the standard potential field source surface (PFSS) model, with, in addition, white‐light observations further validates this new MHD model. The source surface neutral lines calculated from the MHD and PFSS models generally match each other closely; however, differences occur at different phases in the solar cycle. The location of the HCS shows good overall agreement with the bright structures in the observed white‐light intensity pattern, especially around solar minimum or well after solar maximum, and this result confirms that the observed white‐light streamer structures originate from a single, large‐scale plasma sheet located near the HCS.
Paleo–sea ice conditions of the Amundsen Gulf, Canadian Arctic Archipelago: Implications from the foraminiferal record of the last 200 years
Authors: Schell Trecia M. , Moss Tamara J. , Scott David B. , Rochon Andre
Published: March 2008

Four boxcores were collected as part of the Canadian Arctic Exchange Shelf Study (CASES) in the Amundsen Gulf at water depths of 59 m to 600 m. Data from these cores help to develop a record of changes in the oceanographic history of the area over the last 200 years, with particular reference to the indication of paleo–sea ice formation, a key element of the Arctic ecosystem. The four sites cover a range of water depths and environments to provide a basis for comparison. The benthic foraminifera of sites CA‐06 (253 m water depth) and CA‐18 (600 m water depth) show an increase in Arctic Surface Water associated agglutinated foraminifera over the last ∼100 years (uppermost 8 to 16 cm). These are indicating a decrease in sea ice cover and in cold saline Arctic Bottom Water influence; these are similar to Canadian Arctic Archipelago postglacial faunas. This contrasts with abundant planktic foraminifera at the same stations, suggesting strong, oceanic Arctic surface influence (little freshwater) in the central Gulf. The foraminifera of sites 403B (59 m water depth) and 415B (56 m water depth), at the outermost edges of Amundsen Gulf, indicate that the present‐day location of the winter flaw lead has been in place for at least the last 100 years, with foraminiferal faunas similar to those of the Beaufort Shelf. Additionally, station 415 is on an earlier Holocene shoreline that is covered with cobbles.
On the ocean salinity stratification observed at the eastern edge of the equatorial Pacific warm pool
Authors: Maes Christophe
Published: March 2008

The observations collected during a series of three oceanographic cruises dedicated to the study of the frontal zone at the eastern edge of the equatorial Pacific warm pool are used to study the role of salinity in the static stratification of the ocean upper layers. By combining physical and biogeochemical data, the position of the frontal zone at the surface could be accurately determined between 157.5°E and 173.4°E. A multiparameter approach is required due to the uncertainty that may result when one parameter is only considered. In the subsurface the thermohaline structures around the frontal zone reveal the predominant role of the ocean salinity stratification within the isothermal layers. However, the actual methods to determine the salinity barrier layer thickness cannot separate in detail the different dynamical regimes near the frontal zone and another variable to identify the role of the salinity in the static vertical stratification is then proposed and tested on several data sets. This method takes into account the thermal and the saline dependencies in the Brunt‐Väisälä frequency in order to isolate the specific role of the salinity stratification in the layers above the main thermocline. The results show that the equatorial western Pacific is characterized by an increasing east‐west gradient in salinity stratification whereas the stronger values are found westward of the eastern edge of the warm pool. This diagnostic then provides the basis for an examination of the dynamical mechanisms involved in the formation of the salinity stratification. It also confirms the importance of the ocean salinity in the variability of the equatorial Pacific warm pool. The potentially important implications for the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation variability are discussed.
Interannual variability of tropical cyclone activity in the southern South China Sea
Authors: Zuki Zabani M. , Lupo Anthony R.
Published: March 2008

A study of tropical storm activity in the southern South China Sea region was carried out for the period of 1960 to 2006 using data obtained from the UNISYS website archive, which was provided to them from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JWTC) best track data. This study was motivated by two particularly costly storms that impacted Malaysia during the 1996–2001 period. This study demonstrated that November and December were the most active months for tropical cyclone activity in this region. A majority of these storms attained tropical storm intensity. Also, a majority of the tropical cyclones originated within the study area near Malaysia as opposed to moving into the area. The long‐term trend showed that there has been a slight increase in tropical cyclone activity in the region, but the trend was not statistically significant. A study of the interannual variability revealed that there was more (less) tropical cyclone activity in the region during La Niña (El Niño) years. Longer‐term variability, such as that related to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, was not found in the analysis here. Using spectral methods confirms that there was significant El Niño–related variability in climatological quantities such as monthly sea surface temperatures or pressures. Finally, the background climatological state was examined in order to determine whether or not the atmosphere in the region was more conducive to tropical cyclone formation or maintenance during active years. It was found that the most active years were associated with warmer SSTs in the study region, relatively weak 200–850 hPa wind shear, a warm‐core structure, more water vapor, and more cyclonic low‐level relative vorticity, and these were all La Niña–type years. Nonactive years were associated with weaker wind shear, less water vapor, and a more anticyclonic (vorticity) background, regardless of whether the SSTs were warmer or cooler, and most of these were El Niño–type years.
T cell homeostasis
Authors: Sprent Jonathan , Cho Jae‐Ho , Boyman Onur , Surh Charles D
Published: March 2008

The pool of mature T cells comprises a heterogeneous mixture of naive and memory CD4+ and CD8+ cells. These cells are long lived at a population level but differ markedly in their relative rates of turnover and survival. Here, we review how contact with exogenous stimuli, notably self MHC ligands and various γc cytokines, plays a decisive role in controlling normal T cell homeostasis.
Distinct regulation of effector and memory T‐cell differentiation
Authors: Kallies Axel
Published: March 2008

Three major subsets of antigen‐experienced T cells have been identified based on surface markers and distinct functional properties: short‐lived effector T cells, central memory T cells and effector memory T cells. The precise relationship among these subsets and their mode of differentiation are still controversial. Recent studies, however, have provided compelling evidence for an early delineation of the effector versus memory T‐cell fates regulated through specific transcription factors. Cytokines have long been recognized as being important for the shaping of a T‐cell response and for the maintenance of memory T cells. The observation that short‐lived effector and memory T cells, as well as their precursors, express distinct levels of IL7R has provided an important tool to examine the role that cytokines play in the programming of T‐cell differentiation pathways and of the transcriptional regulators that guide these processes. IL2 and IL12 in particular have been shown to provide the signals that induce or repress transcription factors, such as T‐bet, Eomes and Blimp‐1, all of which are crucial in the differentiation and homoeostasis of effector and memory T cells. The coordinated differentiation of a heterogeneous population of antigen‐specific T cells early during an immune response is essential for the effective eradication of pathogens and the long‐term protection against reinfection. Thus, understanding the signals and transcriptional programmes in T‐cell differentiation is a key to successful manipulation of T‐cell responses during vaccination.
Connecting With Culture Through Middle School Environmental Curriculum
Authors: Inglebret Ella , Pavel D. Michael , Lehr Tamara
Published: March 2008

Purpose:
This article presents an approach for incorporating indigenous culture into language and literacy intervention for middle school students. The approach is centered on the use of environmental education curriculum.

Method:
Seven over-arching standards for effective pedagogy in facilitating the learning of indigenous students are discussed. These standards are based on 25 years of ongoing research at the Center for Research on Education, Diversity & Excellence (CREDE). Application of the standards is illustrated through use of the Shadow of the Salmon curriculum being developed by the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and Salmon Defense. This curriculum is grounded in the cultural beliefs, values, and traditions of indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.

Conclusion:
Speech-language pathologists can draw from resources available through other disciplines, such as environmental science, to generate culturally responsive pedagogy and materials that promote language and literacy skills for students of indigenous background.
Pre-Referral Procedures: Meeting Unique Needs of English Language Learners
Authors: Burton Vera Joanna , Wendt Betsy
Published: March 2008

An increasingly large number of children receiving education in the United States public school system do not speak English as their first language. As educators adjust to the changing educational demographics, speech-language pathologists will be called on with increasing frequency to address concerns regarding language difference and language disorders. This paper illustrates the pre-referral assessment-to-intervention processes and products designed by one school team to meet the unique needs of English Language Learners (ELL).
Video Reviews: Stuttering: For Kids, By Kids How It Scores With Kids
Authors: Nancy Ribbler
Published: March 2008

Following are two reviews of a 2004 videotape/DVD by the Stuttering Foundation of America: Stuttering: For Kids, By Kids.
Preparing Clinicians to Treat Stuttering: Looking to the Future
Authors: Watson Jennifer B.
Published: March 2008

Recently, at the ASHA-sponsored Speech-Language Pathology Education Summit, clinicians and academicians explored issues affecting the preparation of future speech-language pathologists. From this discussion emerged several faculty, academic, practice, and student considerations for educating future generations of clinicians to treat stuttering. Preparing this next generation of clinicians will require identifying and supporting faculty as they share, in ways that are relevant to today’s students, their passion for understanding and treating stuttering. Academic models preparing both undergraduate and graduate students will need to be flexible, less linear, and more integrated with clearly delineated preparation outcomes in stuttering. Partnerships with externship supervisors treating people who stutter should be valued and supported. Further, recognizing and appreciating generational differences in work views will enhance student recruitment and retention in the area of stuttering. The multiple roles and activities associated with stuttering treatment along with the complexities of the disorder may be appealing to current students and speak to their attraction to multitasking and doing work that is meaningful. Pedagogical approaches should integrate technology in meaningful and effective ways. Finally, a Weighted SLP formula is proposed to remind us of the need for multiple strategies in addressing the multidimensionality of these issues.
Problem-Based Learning in Fluency and Stuttering
Authors: Amster Barbara J.
Published: March 2008

Problem Based Learning is a student oriented educational approach designed to help students develop critical thinking. Its use in a graduate course on fluency and stuttering is discussed. Examples of problem scenarios used in the class are provided. From the beginning to the end of the semester, students’ perceived competency of their knowledge and skill in fluency and stuttering significantly increased. It is speculated that the use of Problem Based Learning helped in this regard.
Meeting the Listening Needs of Adolescents: FM and Other Technologies
Authors: Kordas Tammy
Published: March 2008

The benefits of frequency-modulated (FM) systems have been well established. An FM system provides a favorable signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio even in the most difficult listening situations. With today's technology, FM systems are smaller and easier to use; however, many older school-aged children and adolescents choose to not use them, due to a variety of reasons. This manuscript provides suggestions for creative ways for audiologists to meet the needs of adolescents.

Audiologists who work with school-aged children and adolescents can be creative in regards to FM technology and encourage FM use beyond the traditional classroom. Audiologists also can provide information on assistive devices and alternative technology such as the use of direct audio input (DAI), vibrating alarm clocks, and Bluetooth® technology. These options may address the unique listening needs of adolescents and allow them to interact and participate in the same activities as their normal-hearing peers.
Oral Care and the Elderly
Authors: Ashford John R. , Skelley Michelle
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this report is to review the normal environment of the oropharyngeal cavity, examine its potential role in the development of pneumonia, and examine the beneficial effects of oral care in the prevention of pneumonia among the sick and elderly. The oropharynx is a very diverse environment of structures, functions, and ecology. Normal bacterial florae existing in this environment are limited in their efforts to colonize in the moist oral tissues by immune properties present in saliva and mucous. Lack of oral maintenance or the occurrence of a severe illness may provide an opportunity for these pathogens to colonize and multiply. Aspiration of certain oral pathogens into the lower respiratory tract has been associated with the development of pneumonia leading to illness complications and death in some elderly or sick persons. Oral care using brushes and oral rinses have been shown to significantly reduce pneumonia development and fever in the sick and elderly populations. An important new role of speech-language pathologists is to assert themselves as practitioners and advocates of better oral health with these populations.
Frailty, Functional Reserve, and Sarcopenia in the Geriatric Dysphagic Patient
Authors: Murray Joseph
Published: March 2008

In this review the interaction of senescence and dysphagia are discussed with attention to normal changes in bodily homeostasis that occur with aging and the acceleration of decline observed in frail individuals. The concepts of functional reserve, symmorphosis and sarcopenia are discussed in a way to aid the speech-language pathologist providing dysphagia services to the elderly. It is important for the practicing speech-language pathologist to realize the vital importance of compromised functional reserve and to be able to identify elders who are at risk of the spiral of poor nutrition and frailty as they present themselves in daily clinical practice.
Food for Thought: How Do Patients With ALS Decide About Having a PEG?
Authors: Leslie Paula
Published: March 2008

Dysphagia is a distressing problem in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Patients and caregivers must decide whether to use supplementary non-oral feeding. The deliberations and timing of this decision may be haphazard. The optimum time for this choice, in terms of residual (quality) life expectancy and decision competency, is unknown. Health-care workers may fear that even the offer of enteral feeding might be construed as an unwelcome landmark on the disease deterioration. This paper provides a qualitative report on the subjective experiences of 2 patients deciding whether to have a PEG or not. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each patient and transcripts are provided for the reader to review.
Due Process Hearings: Understanding, Preventing, Preparing
Authors: Power-deFur Lissa , O'Toole Thomas
Published: March 2008

The words due process typically trigger dread, anxiety, and perhaps anger for school administrators, teachers, and speech-language pathologists. We agree with Moore and Montgomery, that “…a due process hearing is like a court proceeding where evidence is presented and, ultimately, one side prevails. The general feeling about due process hearings is that, in the long run, no one really wins as there are so many hard feelings after these events” (2008, p. 317).