bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling climate change impacts on tidal marsh birds: Restoration and conservation planning in the face of uncertainty
Authors: Veloz Samuel D. , Nur Nadav , Salas Leonardo , Jongsomjit Dennis , Wood Julian , Stralberg Diana , Ballard Grant
Published: April 2013

The large uncertainty surrounding the future effects of sea‐level rise and other aspects of climate change on tidal marsh ecosystems exacerbates the difficulty in planning effective conservation and restoration actions. We addressed these difficulties in the context of large‐scale wetland restoration activities underway in the San Francisco Estuary (Suisun, San Pablo and San Francisco Bays). We used a boosted regression tree approach to project the future distribution and abundance of five marsh bird species (through 2110) in response to changes in habitat availability and suitability as a result of projected sea‐level rise, salinity, and sediment availability in the Estuary. To bracket the uncertainty, we considered four future scenarios based on two sediment availability scenarios (high or low), which varied regionally, and two rates of sea‐level rise (0.52 or 1.65 m/100 yr). We evaluated three approaches for using model results to inform the selection of potential restoration projects: (1) Use current conditions only to prioritize restoration. (2) Use a single future scenario (among the four referred to above) in combination with current conditions to select priority restoration projects. (3) Combine current conditions with all four future scenarios, while incorporating uncertainty among future scenarios into the selection of restoration projects. We found that simply using current conditions resulted in the poorest performing restoration projects selected in terms of providing habitat for tidal marsh birds in light of possible future scenarios. The most robust method for selecting restoration projects, the “combined” strategy, used projections from all future scenarios with a discounting of areas with high levels of variability among future scenarios. We show that uncertainty about future conditions can be incorporated in site prioritization algorithms and should motivate the selection of adaptation measures that are robust to uncertain future conditions. These results and data have been made available via an interactive decision support tool at www.prbo.org/sfbayslr.
Water Pollution and Cyanobacteria's Variation of Rivers Surrounding Southern Taihu Lake, China
Authors: Sun Mingyang , Huang Linglin , Tan Lisha , Yang Zhe , Baig Shams Ali , Sheng Tiantian , Zhu Hong , Xu Xinhua
Published: April 2013

The water quality and cyanobacterial variation of rivers surrounding southern Taihu Lake, China were purposively monitored from 2008 to 2010. Trophic level index (TLI) was used to evaluate the trophic levels of southern Taihu Lake. Results showed a considerable decline in the monitored data compared with 2007, and the data showed downward trends year after year. The TLI decreased from 55.6 to 51.3, which implied that southern Taihu Lake was mildly eutrophic. The water quality and cyanobacterial variation indicated a positive response to the adopted control measures in the southern Taihu Lake basin, but the intra‐ and inter‐annual variability was still quite varied. High concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus typically lead to algae outbreaks, however, the cyanobacteria growth may result in a decline of the concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus. Temperature and other weather conditions are also important factors for algae outbreaks; the risk of blue‐green algal blooms still persists.
The development of internal fixation: Historical overview
Authors: Lesic Aleksandar , Zagorac Slavisa , Bumbasirevic Vesna , Bumbasirevic Marko
Published: April 2013

Since the ancient times, man was faced with the problem of fracture
treatment, which is first described in the records from ancient Egypt. Ever
since, many treatment methods have been developed, but the real revolution in
the fracture treatment was achieved by internal fixation. Since it was
described for the first time, at the end of the 18th century, this method has
continuously developed, but sterilization, radiographies, anaesthesiology,
antibiotics made this surgery modern and safe. The great ideas and practical
solutions of the new methods were done by Albin Lambotte, William Arbuthnot
Lane, Robert Danis, William Hey Groves. They lead to the expansion of this
method and truly made the principles for the future AO school. New methods,
biological internal fixation, minimally invasive procedures, new technologies
and devices for internal fixation are introduced in the surgical practice
daily.
Effects of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors on pseudophakic corneal edema
Authors: Abazi Zihret , Magarasevic Lidija , Markovic Aleksandar , Risovic Dusica
Published: April 2013

INTRODUCTION: Acetazolamide as inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase, in glaucoma
therapy, has an effect on lowering intraocular pressure. In addition to this
primary effects, we attempted to determine the effect on the cornea after
phacoemulsification. In our study, we determined the effects of systemically
applied dose of 500 mg of acetazolamide on the edema, thickness, and corneal
morphology after phacoemulsification, with the Anterior Segment Optical
Coherence Tomography (AS OCT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 53
patients who were divided into two groups. Groups were stratified by type of
cataract (nuclear), age (62+1.5), preoperative visual acuity (5/60) Snellen
table, and preoperative findings on AS-OCT. Phacoemulsification has done the
same surgeon, with the same ultrasound probe length using ultrasonic force of
the average value of 14 for a period of 72+2.5 seconds. Group of 33 patients
were administered systemic acetazolamide at a dose of 250 mg per scheme 01
hours +24 hours after phacoemulsification (group I). Another group of 20
patients did not receive acetazolamide( group II). AS OCT recordings were
performed before surgery, 6 hours and 24 hours after surgery. RESULTS: The
mean value in both groups was 549+ 9 ?m before surgery. Group I had average
value of 648+6 ?m after 6h, and the mean value was 612+4 ?m after 24h. The
group II, had a mean thickness of the cornea after 6 hours of 720+5 ?m, and
after 24 hours 708+4?m. Morphological changes in the tomograms of the group I
showed minimal creases Descemet?s membrane. Postoperative visual acuity was
0,6,24h after the surgery in the I group of patients, and 0,3 in the II
group. CONCLUSION: In our study the patients who administered systemic
acetazolamide had significant reduction of central corneal thickness. The
folds of Descemet?s membrane and endothelial dysfunction in AS OCT tomograms
showed less structural changes in group I. Significant better postoperative
visual acuity in these patients is probably because of the smaller corneal
edema after 24 h, which improves patients? comfort.
Calcaneal fractures: The orthopaedic challenge
Authors: Lesic Aleksandar , de Atkinson , Bumbasirevic Vesna , Bumbasirevic Marko
Published: April 2013

Calcaneal fractures, since their description in 1843 by Malgaigne, still
remain a challenge in orthopaedic surgery. They are significant from an
epidemiological point of view - they represent 60% of all tarsal fractures,
and of an increasing number of fractures due to traffic accidents and their
outcome is unpredictable. In contrast to the disappointing results after
nonoperative treatment and at the beginnings of calcaneal surgery, the
outcome is promising nowadays. New imaging and fixation devices, with proper
classification and indication for certain surgical procedures have led to the
improved outcome. But, there are still controversies, and we emphasize the
most rationale treatment for the calcaneal fractures, as well as best
surgical options.
Results of asymmetric bilateral medial rectus retroposition in unilateral Duane retraction syndrome’s type I
Authors: Ljutica Milorad , Stamenkovic Miroslav , Risovic Dusica , Nikitovic Nebojsa , Stankov Branko
Published: April 2013

Objective: To describe the results of asymmetric bilateral medial rectus
retroposition in unilateral Duane retraction syndrome-this type I. Method:
This is a retrospective study involving 18 patients, mean age 11.2 years
(3-37 years) with unilateral Duane retraction syndrome?s type who were
operated in 2009 up to 2011 year. The aim was to investigate the existence of
ocular torticollis, size deviation before and after surgery and presence of
amblyopia, anisometropia, type of refractive errors and lateralization.
Results: All 18 patients were surgically treated by asymmetric retroposition
of internal rectus (for 1-2mm more on the healthy eye). All patients
preoperatively de-monstrated ocular torticollis. Size of mean preoperative
deviation was +22.2 pD of primary angle PD and +46 pD of secondary angle.
Postoperative finding: deviation of> +10 PD is noted to the presence of mild
torticollis in one patient. Intermediate follow-up period was 9.8 months.
Unilateral Duane?s syndrome is common among members of women (67%) compared
to males (33%). Lateralization of Duane?s syndrome is more common in the left
eye compared to the right (83% vs. 17%). Amblyopia was present in two
patients and anisometropia (11.1%). As for refractive errors: hyperopia was
found in 9 patients (50%), hypermetric astigmatism in 7 cases (39%), myopia
and 1 (5.5%) and emmetropia (5.5%). None of the patients had no pathological
changes in the fundus and anterior segment. Conclusion: Asymmetric bilateral
medial rectus retroposition is extremely effective in the treatment of ocular
torticollis and esotropia in patients with unilateral Duane retraction
syndrome-this type I.
The effects of early rehabilitation in patients with surgically treated colorectal cancer
Authors: Djurasic Ljubomir , Pavlovic Aleksandar , Zaric Nemanja , Palibrk Ivan , Basaric Dragan , Djordjevic Vladimir
Published: April 2013

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancer. Caught early, it is often
curable. The important role in functional recovery of these patients, have
enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) clinical care protocol and early
rehabilitation. The goal of this research is the objective evaluation of the
effects of early rehabilitation in patients after surgical treatment of
colorectal cancer, respecting their functional recovery and quality of life,
before and after rehabilitation. This study was made as experimental,
randomized, controlled clinical trial, opened type. The examination included
58 patients (39 males and 19 females), age from 36 to 85 years, average 63.3,
with surgically treated colorectal cancer. All patients had appropriate early
multimodal accelerated rehabilitation program. The mean value of this program
was 7,24 days. As observing parameter was used short form, 36 items health
related questionnaire (SF-36 ), with two summary measures-Physical component
summary (PCS) and Mental component summary (MCS), for the evaluation of
quality of life, before and after treatment. For the statistical analysis of
the acquired data, before and after therapy, was used Student?s t-test. After
therapy, the quality of life of patients was significantly improved, physical
health (p< 0.01), as well as mental health (p<0,01). SF36 score after
rehabilitation, show important improvement of quality of life in early
treated patients. These results show excellent therapeutic possibilities of
enhaced recovery clinical care protocol and early rehabilitation procedures.
According to the results of this study, it can be concluded that early
rehabilitation accelerated program is very effective in treatment of patients
with surgically treated colorectal cancer.
Gigantic transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis in the region of endemic nephropathy
Authors: Petrovic Milan , Andrejevic Vladan , Acimovic Miodrag , Djurasic Ljubomir , Pejcic Tomislav , Dzamic Zoran , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan
Published: April 2013

AIMS: To present the rare case of transitional cell carcinoma of the renal
pelvic in the region of endemic nephropathy. PATIENT REPORT: A 64-year old
man with gigantic urothelial carcinoma in renal pelvis and ureter. Patient
underwent right nephrectomy. Hystopathological analysis after right
nephrectomy revealed urothelial transitional cell carcinoma, grade III-IV
with infiltration of right ureter. After one month, because of the
hystopatological findings, patient underwent ureterectomy on the right side.
RESULTS: Two years after surgery there are no signs of primary disease or
metastasis and the cystoscopy findings are normal. CONCLUSION: Despite the
poor prognosis, two years after surgery patient is without signs of primary
disease or metastasis.
Nuchal translucency measurement: The effect of 3D/4D ultrasound
Authors: Kozarov Gordana , Marjanovic-Milosevic Tanja , Vuksic Bosko
Published: April 2013

Introduction. Nuchal translucency thickness has undoubtedly been proven as an
important marker in screening for chromosomal abnormalities. It is measured
in the first trimester by ultrasound. This study was aimed at determining the
effect of 3D/4D ultrasound on standard error of mean nuchal translucency
measurements. Material and Methods. Having satisfied the inclusion criteria,
430 nuchal translucency measurements were analyzed (singleton pregnancies,
11+0-13+6 weeks of gestation, crown rump length 45-84mm, postnatally
confirmed absence of anomalies). The data were divided into two groups,
depending on the method used (older generation 2D ultrasound or 3D/4D
ultrasound). The reported nuchal translucency measurements were converted
into multiple of median values of nuchal translucency and 95% confidence
interval was calculated for the two sets of data. Results. The standard error
of mean values has decreased from 0.027, when nuchal translucency was
mea-sured via 2D ultrasound, to 0.016 when 3D/4D ultrasound was used for the
measurements. Discussion. The detection rates of prenatal screening tests can
be increased and the false positive rates can be decreased by lowering the
standard error of mean value. Conclusion. Advanced technology and developed
automated measuring of nuchal translucency should result in further
enhancements in early detection of fetal abnormalities.
Pulp vitality preservation after traumatic dental injuries to permanent teeth
Authors: Blagojevic Duska , Petrovic Bojan , Markovic Dejan , Vujkov Sanja , Demko-Rihter Ivana
Published: April 2013

Introduction. The pulp vitality preservation after a trauma to permanent
teeth is of great importance since dental injuries are common. The aim of our
study was to investigate the pulp vitality preservation after tooth injuries.
Material and Methods. A retrospective analysis of records of patients with a
trauma was performed. The sample consisted of all patients who had been
referred to the Department of Dentistry of Vojvodina for a trauma to
permanent teeth during the period 2005-2010. We recorded the type of injury,
treatment, state of vitality during the first visit and subsequent check-ups.
Results. The study included 162 children and adolescents aged 6-18 years
having a trauma to 314 permanent teeth. The most frequent type of injuries in
permanent teeth was fractures (54.5%), whereas luxation was a less common
trauma (45.5%). Though different kinds of traumas have different optimal time
for treatment, a period of 24 hours was taken as optimal; hence, 189 teeth
were treated in optimal time and 55 complications occurred in them; while 105
complications occurred in 114 teeth which were treated 24 hours after the
trauma. A year after the trauma the pulp vitality was preserved in 88 teeth
(32%), pulp necrosis and other complications developed in 160 teeth (68%).
Conclusion. The therapy of pulp vitality preservation in injured teeth was
found successful in 32% and unsuccessful in 68% of cases at check-ups over
one year.
Mothers’ resolution of their children’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy
Authors: Krstic Tatjana , Bugarski Vojislava , Brkic Nina , Obradovic Biljana
Published: April 2013

Introduction. The process of adaptation and acceptance of a child?s diagnosis
of cerebral palsy requires from parents to process the trauma caused by this
knowledge cognitively and emotionally. Parents who manage to come to terms
with their children?s condition are labeled as resolved. As opposed to them,
unresolved parents do not accept the reality of their children?s condition
and fail to overcome the crisis caused by knowledge of the child?s diagnosis.
Unresolved status has negative implications for the child, the parents and
their relationship. Case Reports. Two case reports of mothers whose children
have been diagnosed to have cerebral palsy are given. The first case shows a
resolved mother who managed to overcome the initial shock and started to feel
a sense of relief from the period when she found out the child?s diagnosis.
In contrast, another case shows an unresolved mother with no significant
changes in thoughts and feelings from the time since she learned the child?s
diagnosis. She was preoccupied with anger and attempted to minimize the
child?s problem. Discussion. Interviews on reaction to diagnosis and reaction
to diagnosis classification system allow identification of mothers?
resolution of their children?s diagnosis of cerebral palsy. The
characteristics of resolved and unresolved maternal status are discussed.
Conclusion. Parental resolution of diagnosis is essential for the successful
adaptation to raising children with disabilities, as well as meeting the
requirements of the parental role. It is important to recognize parental
cognitions and feelings regarding the child?s condition in order to direct
psychotherapeutic interventions towards vulnerable population of parents.
The stylized facts of Greek inflation: New evidence on persistence
Authors: Apergis Nicholas
Published: April 2013

This paper contributes to the existing empirical literature of inflation
persistence by providing results on the level of inflation persistence for
the Greek economy using an inflation series on both the aggregated and the
disaggregated level. The empirical findings reveal substantial homogeneity
across sectors as well as across price indices. These results suggest a very
moderate degree of inflation persistence for both aggregate and disaggregate
price indices. The results point to the need to account for the presence of a
structural break typically related to the ?Maastricht effect?; and entailed a
structural increase in the persistence measure, though the average level of
inflation declined. This could be a piece of evidence that although the
monetary component of inflation in Greece was neutralized due to the
implementation of the monetary policy by a central monetary authority, other
idiosyncratic characteristics of the Greek inflation contribute to this
persistent structure of the inflation series.
Does globalization lead to a rat race of national labor-market institutions?
Authors: Stauvermann Peter
Published: April 2013

Since just around 30 years we observe that the labor?s share of the national
income decreases in most countries. In this paper, we introduce an endogenous
overlapping generation growth model with an institutional setting of the
labor market to show that the changes of the labor-market institutions are
one main reason for the decrease of the labor?s share. These changes are
mainly caused by the increasing globalization resulting in open capital
markets and as a consequence in a competition between countries with respect
to the labor-market institutions. In the long run, all will suffer. The only
ways to stop this rat race are capital controls or international agreements
on the labormarket institutions.
Behavioral Work Outcomes of a Strategic Performance Measurement System-Based Incentive Plan
Authors: Burney Laurie L. , Widener Sally K.
Published: April 2013

Strategic performance measurement systems (SPMS) that translate a firm's strategy to its employees are increasingly used. We examine whether the extent to which an SPMS is coupled with strategy affects employee performance indirectly through motivational characteristics including perceived self-efficacy and perceived psychological contract. Using data from 242 employees, we find evidence that the extent to which an SPMS is tightly coupled with strategy affects employee performance through perceived self-efficacy and perceived psychological contract. Self-efficacy is a critical dimension of intrinsic motivation. Thus, an implication of our findings is that tightly coupling an SPMS-based incentive plan with strategy facilitates internalized motivated behaviors. We also find that our hypothesized results hold across varying levels of two types of employee climate. However, the workforce's age and education levels serve as boundary conditions since we find that the relation between self-efficacy and employee performance holds only for the older, less-educated employees.

Data Availability: Data used in this study cannot be made public due to a confidentiality agreement with the participating firm.
Do Auditing Standards Matter?
Authors: Knechel W. Robert
Published: April 2013

Properly understanding the economic role of auditing standards is an important step toward improving both audit effectiveness and efficiency. In this essay, I observe that auditing standards are most important when an auditor may have an incentive to under-audit. While this conclusion may not come as a surprise, the conditions under which standards may, or may not, have a desirable effect on audit quality are less obvious. More specifically, I present a number of observations about what standards can do: Standards can (1) compensate for the lack of observability of the audit outcome by focusing on the audit process; (2) partially mitigate the information advantage possessed by the auditor as a professional expert that might motivate the auditor to under-audit; (3) counterbalance the diversity of demand across multiple stakeholders that might drive the audit to the lowest common denominator and create a market based on adverse selection; and (4) provide a benchmark that facilitates the calibration of an auditor's legal liability in the event of a substandard audit. However, I also present a number of observations about what standards should not try to do: Standards should not (1) discourage the use of judgment by auditors; (2) limit the potential demand for economically valuable alternative levels of assurance; (3) lead to excessive procedural routine or standardization in the conduct of the audit; and (4) be set based on an enforcement agenda. In the end, standards overreach may undermine the economic value of the audit to many stakeholders and lead to fee pressure for audit firms. Hopefully, these insights can inform future debates about the level and types of standards that are appropriate for the auditing profession.
Bias, precision and validation of ageing 0+ European barbel Barbus barbus (L.) from their otoliths
Authors: Vilizzi Lorenzo , Copp Gordon
Published: April 2013

The European barbel Barbus barbus L. is considered a ‘flag’ species for river conservation and sport fishing, but it is increasingly threatened in its native range of distribution. To provide accurate age estimates during early life for appropriate management and conservation measures, the bias and precision of otolith (daily) micro-increment counts were evaluated and age determinations validated on laboratory-reared embryos and larvae. Out of the three pairs of otoliths, the lapillus and sagitta provided reliable age estimates for free embryos and larvae up to 17 days of (known) age post-fertilisation, with first micro-increment formation occurring five days postfertilisation. On the other hand, micro-increments on asterisci formed only 16–17 days post-fertilisation. There was agreement in microincrement counts based on lapilli and sagittae, but not between interpreters, indicating that despite consistency between the two pairs of otoliths extensive training and experience are required for reliable age interpretation. The ability to estimate the ages of 0+ B. barbus from their otoliths will contribute to a better understanding of growth rates from both hatchery-stocked and native/introduced cohorts.
Blackfly (Diptera, Simuliidae) communities and species richness estimation in Carpathian montane streams
Authors: Štangler Andrej , Halgoš Jozef , Beracko Pavel
Published: April 2013

The present work gives the result of blackfly fauna research of the Slovenský raj (West Carpathians, Slovakia). Our aim was to describe the composition of blackfly communities, find indicator species for communities, describe environmental factors affecting communities and determine the potential changes in species richness. Research was carried out in 2007 and 2008. The presence of 22 species of blackflies was confirmed at 20 sites in the area of Slovenský raj. 12 species were recorded for the first time in this area. The potential for further increase in diversity was calculated by a nonparametric estimation of species richness. Two main groups of sites with their typical blackflies communities were indentified using a TWINSPAN analysis. The presence of Simulium ornatum, S. variegatum and S. argyreatum was typical in larger streams in broad valleys. The absence or low abundance of these species was typical for smaller streams in canyons. Based on the species composition of blackflies communities, we identified 6 groups of sites: 1. anthropogenically disturbed submountain rivers (typical species: Simulium
ornatum, S. reptans, S. equinum), 2. undisturbed metarhithral (typical species: Simulium bertrandi, S. codreanui, S. costatum, S. vernum, S. argenteostriatum, S. degrangei, S. argyreatum, S. variegatum), 3. undisturbed hyporhithral (typical species: Simulium
trifasciatum, S. tuberosum), 4. undisturbed epirhithral (typical species: Prosimulium hirtipes, P. rufipes), 5. hypocrenal (typical species: Simulium cryophilum, S. monticola) and 6. anthropogenically disturbed epirhithral (typical species: Simulium brevidens, S. maximum). The most important environmental factors explaining differences in species composition like altitude, flow speed, pH, conductivity, oxygen saturation, sulphates concentration and presence of riparian vegetation were identified by the CCA analysis.
Erratum to: “The Luc2 gene enhances reliability of bicistronic assays”
Authors: Mašek Tomáš , Vopalenský Václav , Pospíšek Martin
Published: April 2013

Paper by Masek et al. “The Luc2 gene enhances reliability of bicistronic assays” in Volume 8, Issue 5, 423–431 / May 2013; DOI: 10.2478/s11535-013-0151-z contains incomplete graphic file inserted as Figure 2. The correct Figure 2, together with its caption is presented below.
Efficient synthesis of carbon nanotubes with improved surface area by low-temperature solvothermal route from dichlorobenzene
Authors: Krishnamurthy Gantigaiah , Agarwal Sarika
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of well-aggregated carbon nanotubes in the form of bundles was achieved by the catalytic reduction of 1,2-dichlorobenzene by a solvothermal approach. The use of 1,2-dichlorobenzene as a carbon source yielded a comparably good percentage of carbon nanotubes in the range of 60–70 %, at a low reaction temperature of 200°C. The products obtained were analysed by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The X-ray diffraction studies implied the presence of pure, crystalline, and well-ordered carbon nanotubes. The scanning electron and transmission electron microscopic images revealed the surface morphology, dimensions and the bundled form of the tubes. These micrographs showed the presence of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with an outer diameter of 30–55 nm, inner diameter of 15–30 nm, and lengths of several hundreds of nanometers. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller-based N2 gas adsorption studies were performed to determine the surface area and pore volume of the carbon nanotubes. These carbon nanotubes exhibit a better surface area of 385.30 m2 g−1. In addition, the effects of heating temperature, heating time, amount of catalyst and amount of carbon source on the product yield were investigated.
Howard Barker: Modern Allegorist
Authors: Thomas Alan
Published: April 2013

Howard Barker is one of that notable generation of leftist writers including Howard Brenton and David Hare, whose work first carne to prominence in Britain in the nineteen-seventies. Inevitably, he became known by association as a political dramatist and his own stated leftism in political attitude has tended to reinforce this description. Yet the broad application of the term "political" conceals the nature of the highly individual work of a dramatist whose plays, notably in his later period, have been visionary in concept, often surrealist in manner, and so frequently bewildering to the critics as to demand analysis and definition.
"They are well together. Women are not": Productive Ambivalence and Female Hom(m)osociality in Fefu and Her Friends
Authors: Murray Piper
Published: April 2013

Maria Irene Fornes's Fefu and Her Friends leaves us with a vision that is nothing if not ambivalent. Coming as the climax of eight women's efforts to throw off "the stifling conditions" that have brought them together, Julia's sympathetic death mdash; apparently the result of a shot fired by Phillip's unsympathetic gun — shocks and confuses. In an effort to explain this strangely ambiguous ending, many critics have looked to one of its most obvious roots: the conflicted psyches of Fefu and her friends. In such an interpretation, Julia's real and hallucinated struggle, however dramatic, becomes just an extreme example of the pain and paralysis that all the women experience. All of these women, it would seem, have internalized the kind of judges Julia hallucinates in her Part Two monologue. All of them must strive to create an identity not dependent on men (or "man") for its definition, one that celebrates both the plumbing that women can call their own and the fact that women can do all their "own plumbing"
Quality Control Tests in Some Diagnostic X-Ray Units in Bangladesh
Authors: Begum M , Mollah AS , Zaman MA , Rahman AKMM
Published: April 2013

Regular implementation of quality control in diagnostic x-ray facilities is essential to provide good quality images which lead to proper diagnoses with minimum hazard and distress. Important performance tests in diagnostic radiology in Bangladesh are carried out according to a quality control protocol and the measured parameter values are compared to the relevant acceptance limits. In this work, beam alignment, field congruence, nominal focal spot, film-screen contact and half value layer for diagnostic x-ray facilities are measured by using beam alignment test tool, RMI/Victoreen collimator test tool, Bar pattern focal spot test tool, film/screen contact test tool (RMI143D), Gammex RMI step wedge and densitometer from forty different diagnostic x-ray facilities in Bangladesh. For congruence between optical and radiation fields, 77.5% are found to be within limit and 60% of facilities are within the beam alignment limit. For most of the installations, 92.5% nominal focal spot size of diagnostic x-ray machines is matched perfectly with the rating of focal spot size. In an effort to improve image quality, this study has checked the film-screen contacts of multiple facilities and found 65% to have the expected uniformity. While investigating half value layers (HVL), a measure of x-ray beam quality, it is found that none of the diagnostic x-ray installations can achieve the recommended levels. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmp.v4i1.14688 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Physics Vol.4 No.1 2011 59-66
Design of a Microcontroller Based System to Implement 4-Electode Focused Impedance Method (FIM)
Authors: Aktharuzzaman Dr , Baig Tanvir N , Rabbani K Siddique-e
Published: April 2013

Designing of electronic circuitry and development of necessary software has been performed in the present work for a microcontroller based 4-electrode Focused Impedance measurement system. This needs a complex sequential analog switching of constant current ac signal generator and a potential measuring unit to 4 electrodes on the object under study. The performances of the designed system and the developed microcontroller software have been studied using a commercially available simulation software, Proteus-7, and the results are very satisfactory. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmp.v4i1.14690 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Physics Vol.4 No.1 2011 75-79
Evaluation of Scatter Fraction (SF) of a 16-Ring Positron Emission Tomography (PET) System
Authors: Ahasan M Monjur
Published: April 2013

Scatter fraction (SF) characteristic of a newly constructed 16-ring PET system with a FOV of 20 cm was experimentally evaluated in 2D acquisition mode (ring difference ? 3) but without septa, using a 10 cm diameter phantom. The scatter fraction measured from the backprojected images and the sinogram data aiming to find the discrepancy between the two approaches and to test the camera performance operating without septa. The images were reconstructed by the filtered backprojection (FBP) technique using some different filter functions. SF measured from the reconstructed images agreed within uncertainties and had a mean value of 26.1±0.8% at 250-850 keV energy and 12 ns coincidence time window. Scatter fraction also measured from analysis of the PET sinogram was slightly lower, at 23.6 ±0.7%. In each case, the procedure used for estimating the background under the peak is only approximate, and this may account for the slight discrepancy between the two approaches. The results so far indicate that the system can be operated in 2D mode without septa. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmp.v4i1.14691 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Physics Vol.4 No.1 2011 81-86
Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy - the better option for surgical treatment of idiopathic haemorrhoids- 30 Our experience in BSMMU
Authors: Sheikh Md Shahadot Hossain , Siddique Md Ibrahim , Rahman Md Atiar , Mubin Samia , Naznin Kazi Nasid , Islam Md Saiful
Published: April 2013

Objective: Idiopathic haemorrhoidal disease is a common problem in colorectal practice. Conventional open haemorrhoidectomy is associated with significant pain and an open wound for a long time to heal interfering normal day to day activities. Stapled haemorrhoidopexy is expected to have less pain and without a wound. This study reflects our experience with stapled haemorrhoidopexy in our population. Methods: Two hundred consecutive patients with primary haemorrhoidal disease of different degrees underwent stapled haemorrhoidopexy in BSMMU since January 2009 to April 2011. All the patients were evaluated by history, clinical examination and Proctosigmoidoscopy. With adequate preoperative preparation they underwent stapled haemorrhoidopexy under spinal anaesthesia. They were followed up post-operatively for a median 2 months duration. Results: Male to female ratio was 3.76:1 with median age of 35 years (range: 11-90 years). Median hospital stay was 2 days (24 hours-5 days) and longest 5 days after operation. 14 patients had 1st degree haemorrhoids, 66 patients had 2nd degree haemorrhoids, 104 patients had 3rd degree haemorrhoids and 16 patients had 4th degree haemorrhoids. Median time for the procedure was 25 minutes. Urgency of defecation was complained by 46 patients who ultimately felt comfortable within 2-4 weeks. 6 patients complained of annorectal pain who responded to conventional analgesics. Rest of the patients available after 8 weeks follow up were found to be fully satisfied. Conclusion: Contrary to open haemorrhoidectomy this procedure is associated with least chance of anal incontinence because of preservation of normal anal cushion. It can safely be concluded that stapled haemorrhoidopexy is a better option in treating primary haemorrhoidal disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jss.v16i1.14445 Journal of Surgical Sciences (2012) Vol. 16 (1) : 30-34
Information Theory for Correlation Analysis and Estimation of Uncertainty Reduction in Maps and Models
Authors: Wellmann J.
Published: April 2013

The quantification and analysis of uncertainties is important in all cases where maps and models of uncertain properties are the basis for further decisions. Once these uncertainties are identified, the logical next step is to determine how they can be reduced. Information theory provides a framework for the analysis of spatial uncertainties when different subregions are considered as random variables. In the work presented here, joint entropy, conditional entropy, and mutual information are applied for a detailed analysis of spatial uncertainty correlations. The aim is to determine (i) which areas in a spatial analysis share information, and (ii) where, and by how much, additional information would reduce uncertainties. As an illustration, a typical geological example is evaluated: the case of a subsurface layer with uncertain depth, shape and thickness. Mutual information and multivariate conditional entropies are determined based on multiple simulated model realisations. Even for this simple case, the measures not only provide a clear picture of uncertainties and their correlations but also give detailed insights into the potential reduction of uncertainties at each position, given additional information at a different location. The methods are directly applicable to other types of spatial uncertainty evaluations, especially where multiple realisations of a model simulation are analysed. In summary, the application of information theoretic measures opens up the path to a better understanding of spatial uncertainties, and their relationship to information and prior knowledge, for cases where uncertain property distributions are spatially analysed and visualised in maps and models.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Leptin-a Gene and Associations with Growth Traits in the Orange-Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coioides)
Authors: Wei Yun , Huang Hai , Meng Zining , Zhang Yong , Luo Jian , Chen Guohua , Lin Haoran
Published: April 2013

Leptin is a multifunctional protein involved in processes such as body weight regulation, energy expenditure, fat metabolism, food intake, and appetite regulation. Duplicate leptin genes, leptin-a and leptin-b, were previously detected in the orange-spotted grouper. In this study, we cloned the full-length open reading frame (ORF) of the leptin-a gene in the orange-spotted grouper, searched for polymorphisms, and performed association analyses between these polymorphisms and seven growth traits. Six polymorphisms, consisting of 2 SNPs in intron 1 (c.182T > G, c.183G > T) and 4 SNPs in exon 2 (c.339C > G, c.345C > T, c.447G > A, c.531C > T), were identified and genotyped in 200 individuals. The c.182T > G and c.183G > T polymorphisms showed complete linkage and were analyzed together. Association analyses revealed that the c.182 + 183TG > GT polymorphism was significantly associated with body weight (BWT) and body width (BWH), with the AB (TG/GT) genotype showing positive effects on growth traits. Additionally, the SNP c.447G > A was significantly associated with BWT, BWH, overall length (OL), trunk width (TW), and head length (HL), with the GA genotype displaying positive effects on growth traits. The c.531C > T SNP showed a close association between the TT genotype and decreased growth. Our results demonstrate that several polymorphisms in the leptin-a gene are associated with growth traits and can be used for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in orange-spotted grouper populations.
A New Vanadium (III) Complex of 2,6-Bis(3,5-diphenylpyrazol-1-ylmethyl)pyridine as a Catalyst for Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: Abbo Hanna , Titinchi Salam
Published: April 2013

The tridentate ligand 2,6-bis(3,5-diphenylpyrazol-1-ylmethyl)pyridine, abbreviated as 2,6-[(3,5-ph2pz-CH2)2-py], a new pyridine-pyrazole derivative, was prepared from 2,6-bis(bromomethyl)pyridine and 3,5-diphenylpyrazole. The ligand was characterized by means of elemental analyses, ATR-IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray crystallography. Using this ligand, a new mononuclear vanadium (III) complex, {2,6-[(3,5-ph2pz)CH2]2py}VCl3 was prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, ATR-IR and HR-MS. The complex was investigated as a catalyst for ethylene polymerization and compared with 2,6-[(3,5-Me2pz)CH2]2py}VCl3 to explore the effect of the substituent on the pyrazolyl rings on ethylene polymerization. High catalytic activity was observed at ambient temperature. After treatment with AlEtCl2, these complexes showed high activity for ethylene polymerization converting ethylene to highly linear polyethylene and affording high molecular weight polymers (up to 1.0 × 106 g/mol) with unimodal molecular weight distributions.
Application of the Suzuki-Miyaura Reaction in the Synthesis of Flavonoids
Authors: Selepe Mamoalosi , Van Heerden Fanie
Published: April 2013

The application of the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction in the synthesis of flavonoids, an important class of natural products, is reviewed. This reaction has not only been employed to provide access to flavonoid nuclei, but has also been applied to the synthesis of dimeric flavonoids and in the synthesis of libraries of flavonoid derivatives for biological activity studies. The classes of flavonoids that are discussed are the chalcones, flavones, isoflavones, neoflavones, biflavones and derivatives of flavonoids obtained by C-C bond formation via the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction.
Iodine and Mental Development of Children 5 Years Old and Under: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bougma Karim , Aboud Frances , Harding Kimberly , Marquis Grace
Published: April 2013

Several reviews and meta-analyses have examined the effects of iodine on mental development. None focused on young children, so they were incomplete in summarizing the effects on this important age group. The current systematic review therefore examined the relationship between iodine and mental development of children 5 years old and under. A systematic review of articles using Medline (1980–November 2011) was carried out. We organized studies according to four designs: (1) randomized controlled trial with iodine supplementation of mothers; (2) non-randomized trial with iodine supplementation of mothers and/or infants; (3) prospective cohort study stratified by pregnant women’s iodine status; (4) prospective cohort study stratified by newborn iodine status. Average effect sizes for these four designs were 0.68 (2 RCT studies), 0.46 (8 non-RCT studies), 0.52 (9 cohort stratified by mothers’ iodine status), and 0.54 (4 cohort stratified by infants’ iodine status). This translates into 6.9 to 10.2 IQ points lower in iodine deficient children compared with iodine replete children. Thus, regardless of study design, iodine deficiency had a substantial impact on mental development. Methodological concerns included weak study designs, the omission of important confounders, small sample sizes, the lack of cluster analyses, and the lack of separate analyses of verbal and non-verbal subtests. Quantifying more precisely the contribution of iodine deficiency to delayed mental development in young children requires more well-designed randomized controlled trials, including ones on the role of iodized salt.
Validation of Noninvasive MOEMS-Assisted Measurement System Based on CCD Sensor for Radial Pulse Analysis
Authors: Malinauskas Karolis , Palevicius Paulius , Ragulskis Minvydas , Ostasevicius Vytautas , Dauksevicius Rolanas
Published: April 2013

Examination of wrist radial pulse is a noninvasive diagnostic method, which occupies a very important position in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is based on manual palpation and therefore relies largely on the practitioner’s subjective technical skills and judgment. Consequently, it lacks reliability and consistency, which limits practical applications in clinical medicine. Thus, quantifiable characterization of the wrist pulse diagnosis method is a prerequisite for its further development and widespread use. This paper reports application of a noninvasive CCD sensor-based hybrid measurement system for radial pulse signal analysis. First, artery wall deformations caused by the blood flow are calibrated with a laser triangulation displacement sensor, following by the measurement of the deformations with projection moiré method. Different input pressures and fluids of various viscosities are used in the assembled artificial blood flow system in order to test the performance of laser triangulation technique with detection sensitivity enhancement through microfabricated retroreflective optical element placed on a synthetic vascular graft. Subsequently, the applicability of double-exposure whole-field projection moiré technique for registration of blood flow pulses is considered: a computational model and representative example are provided, followed by in vitro experiment performed on a vascular graft with artificial skin atop, which validates the suitability of the technique for characterization of skin surface deformations caused by the radial pulsation.
Correction: Zarzo, M. et al. Long-Term Monitoring of Fresco Paintings in the Cathedral of Valencia (Spain) through Humidity and Temperature Sensors in Various Locations for Preventive Conservation. Sensors 2011, 11, 8685-8710
Authors: Zarzo Manuel , Fernández-Navajas Angel , García-Diego Fernando-Juan
Published: April 2013

A typo has been found in our paper [1]. It is stated on page 8698 that the range of acceptable temperature for the conservation of frescoes is 6–25 °C while in the case of RH, this range is 45%–60%, according to the Italian Standard UNI 10829 (1999). These recommended ranges of temperature (6–25 °C) and RH (45%–60%) correspond to the Standard DM 10/2001 [2], not to UNI 10829. The authors would like to apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused to the readers of this journal. [...]
Influence of the solvent on the stability of bis(terpyridine) structures on graphite
Authors: Künzel Daniela , Groß Axel
Published: April 2013

The effect of solvation on the adsorption of organic molecules on graphite at room temperature has been addressed with force-field molecular dynamics simulations. As a model system, the solvation of a bis(terpyridine) isomer in water and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene was studied with an explicit solvation model. The inclusion of solvation has a noticeable effect on adsorption energies. Although the results of the various considered force fields differ quite significantly, they all agree that the adsorption of BTP from the TCB solvent is almost thermoneutral. The substrate simply acts as a template to allow a planar arrangement of the network, which is stabilized by the intermolecular interaction. Using an atomic thermodynamics approach, the order of the stability of various network structures as a function of the chemical potential is derived yielding a sequence in agreement with the experiment.
Synthesis of skeletally diverse alkaloid-like molecules: exploitation of metathesis substrates assembled from triplets of building blocks
Authors: Maurya Sushil K , Dow Mark , Warriner Stuart , Nelson Adam
Published: April 2013

A range of metathesis substrates was assembled from triplets of unsaturated building blocks. The approach involved the iterative attachment of a propagating and a terminating building block to a fluorous-tagged initiating building block. Metathesis cascade chemistry was used to “reprogram” the molecular scaffolds. Remarkably, in one case, a cyclopropanation reaction competed with the expected metathesis cascade process. Finally, it was demonstrated that the metathesis products could be derivatised to yield the final products. At each stage, purification was facilitated by the presence of a fluorous-tagged protecting group.