bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Epizoonosis of Dermatophytosis”: A Clinico - Mycological Study of Dermatophytic Infections in Central Nepal
Authors: Mathur M , Kedia SK , Ghimire RBK
Published: October 2012

Background Identification of dermatophytic species in clinical settings are important not only for epidemiological but also for the treatment. Objectives Present study was carried out to find out the clinical variants of Dermatophytosis and species of fungus responsible for the disease. Methods The prospective observational analysis of 200 clinically suspected cases of dermatophytic infection attending Dermatology department of College of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal. Skin scraping, hair and nail samples were collected and processed according to standard protocol. Results Maximum number of patients enrolled in study were reported for treatment 5-8 weeks after the onset of disease. Overall male predominance was observed and ages between 26-30 years. Tinea corporis was the most common clinical type of tinea with female dominance in our study. 10 % of cases were having extensive Tinea. 71.5% of samples were positive on direct microscopy and 62 % positive on culture. Samples from T capitis were highest positive by direct microscopy (80%) and over all dominant species of fungus isolated in our study was Trichophyton verrucosum (30.6%). Conclusions The study highlighted Tinea corporis as the most common clinical type with female predominance. Overall predominant causative fungal species isolated was Trichophyton verrucosum. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 30-33DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6910
The Utilization of Health Care Services and their Determinants Among the Elderly Population of Dhulikhel Municipality
Authors: Sanjel S , Mudbhari N , Risal A , Khanal K
Published: October 2012

Background Population ageing is a common problem faced in many countries world-wide. Due to physiological and biochemical changes in the elderly, increased incidence of diseases is observed. There is often low use of health services by the elderly for a variety of reasons. Objective To examine the status of health care utilization and to determine the factors associated with utilization of health care among the elderly population of Dhulikhel Municipality. Methods A quantitative descriptive-cross sectional study, with a total number of 200 elderly people residing in Dhulikhel Municipality, was selected for the study. Data were collected across the months of June - July 2011 applying two-staged cluster and systematic random sampling method. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were measured. Results Sixty eight percent of the elderly visited medical personnel in the past year. Eight percent of them visited the emergency department where most of them reported with symptoms attributed to heart disease. Among 200 elderly, 12.5% of them were admitted to the hospital and 53.0% utilized diagnostic services. Age, marital status, activities of daily living, and regular medication showed significant association with health services utilization at 95% level of confidence (p >0.05). Conclusion Marital status, daily living habits, existence of chronic disease, and regular medication demonstrated significant association with the utilization of health care. Social support services, informal education, and awareness programs targeting the senior citizens and studies covering a diverse population are recommended. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 34-39 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6911
The Role of Argyrophilic Nucleolar Organizer Region (AgNOR) Study in Cytological Evaluation of Fluids, Especially for Detection of Malignancy
Authors: Karki S , Jha A , Sayami G
Published: October 2012

Background Serous effusion smears reported as “suspicious for malignancy” pose problems in clinical management. Silver staining for argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNOR) has proved useful in making a cytopathologic differential diagnosis between benign and malignant cells. Nucleolar organizer regions(NORs) are loops of DNA located in acrocentric chromosomes. These NORs are visualized by silver staining technique that recognizes these argyrophilia associated proteins which are increased in malignancy. Objective This study aimed to distinguish reactive mesothelial cells from malignant cells in serous effusions using these NORs. Methods A total of 174 serous effusions received at the Department of Pathology, TUTH, during a period of one year were included in the study. Smears were studied by conventional Papanicolaou and Giemsa stains. AgNOR counts, variation in size and dispersion of AgNOR dots in smears were graded and compared in malignant and non-malignant effusions. Results Mean AgNOR counts of 10.43±0.73 and 10.21±0.51 in malignant peritoneal and pleural effusions, respectively, were significantly (p<0.0001) greater as compared with counts of 2.12±0.54 and 2.11±0.54 in non-malignant effusions. The AgNORs were irregular in shape in malignant effusions whereas they were comparatively larger, single dots in benign effusions. AgNOR size and dispersion were of higher grade in significantly greater proportion of malignant as compared with non malignant effusions (p<0.0001). Of the cytologically suspicious samples, nine were in the malignant range and one was in the benign range. Conclusion AgNOR study appears to be clinically useful as an additional diagnostic tool for use in serous effusion when the cytologic diagnosis is difficult. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 44-47 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6913
Comparative Study of Effectiveness of Oral Acyclovir with Oral Erythromycin in the Treatment of Pityriasis Rosea
Authors: Amatya A , Rajouria EA , Karn DK
Published: October 2012

Background Pityriasis rosea is an acute, self-limiting disease, probably infective in origin, affecting mainly children and young adults, characterized by distinctive skin eruptions and minimal constitutional symptoms. Both oral Erythromycin and oral Acyclovir have been used in its management. Objectives To compare the effectiveness of oral Erythromycin and oral Acyclovir in the treatment of Pityriasis rosea. Method Forty two patients with clinical diagnosis of Pityriasis rosea were enrolled. They were randomized into two groups. One group was given high-dose oral Acyclovir and another group oral Erythromycin in standard dose. The participants were evaluated one, two, four, six and eight weeks and six months after commencement of the study. Results Forty two patients including 26 males and 16 females completed the study. After 8th week, all patients showed complete response in both the groups. The response to oral Acyclovir compared with that to oral Erythromycin was better and was statistically significant in 1st, 2nd, 4th and 6th weeks. Conclusion Although it is a self-limiting disease which resolves within three weeks to three months, this study reveals that both oral Acyclovir and oral Erythromycin are helpful in decreasing the severity and duration of Pityriasis rosea. Moreover, the study also indicates that oral Acyclovir is more effective than oral Erythromycin in reducing the severity and duration of Pityriasis rosea. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 57-61 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6916
Examination of Relationships of Scores Obtained in Grades 10 and 12 with the Entry and Success in Undergraduate Medical Education
Authors: Gautam AP , Paudel BH , Agrawal CS , Naraula SR , Dalen J Van
Published: October 2012

Background Entrance examination (admission test) is the most important and widely accepted method of student selection for admission into medical schools in Nepal. For many schools it is the only criterion of student selection. Objectives To examine relationships of scores obtained in schooling (grade 10 and 12), medical entrance and MBBS professional examinations in a cohort to identify predictive strength for entry into medical school and success in medical education. Methods Exam scores from grade 10 to medical entrance and professional exams of undergraduate medical education of a total of 118 medical students who entered medical school between 1994 and 1998 only through the merit of open competitive medical entrance examination at the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) were assessed. Results Student selection for admission in MBBS course at BPKIHS and their subsequent success were not determined by difference in outcomes of public & private management of schools at grade 10 (selection p= 0.80 & success p= 0.32 ) and grade 12 (selection p= 0.59 & success p= 0.55). Grade 12 averaged scores had no relationship in getting these students selected for admission into medical course (r= 0.08, p= 0.37), but did show correlation with the overall success in medical education (r= 0.32, p= 0.00). Scores in physics at grade 12 retained predictive strength in success in medical education (r= 0.19, p= 0.04). Conclusion The present student selection criteria for medical education are not appropriate and need to incorporate other attributes of candidates along with cognitive aspects. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 66-71 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6918
Concurrent Vitiligo and Psoriasis
Authors: Karn D , KC S
Published: October 2012

Coexistence of vitiligo and psoriasis in a single patient is a rare occurrence. The exact pathogenesis of this coexistence is obscure. Various autoimmune disorders are reported to occur more frequently in patients with both diseases. A case of this interesting coexistence seen on a 26 year old female patient who presented to the dermatology department of Dhulikhel hospital is presented here. She also had hypothyroidism. The possible pathogenesis and literature review of this rare condition is discussed here. KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY MEDICAL JOURNAL  VOL.10 | NO. 1 | ISSUE 37 | JAN - MAR 2012 | 83-84 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v10i1.6921
Do You Have the Time? Modernity, Democracy, and the Beginnings of Daylight Saving Time in Montreal, 1907–1928
Authors: Rudy Jarrett
Published: October 2012

Abstract:

This article looks at the most significant public debate over time in Montreal's history: the beginnings of daylight saving time (1907–1928). Seeing daylight saving time as an example of the disembedding of time from place, the article demonstrates the importance of local social dynamics in the creation of meanings of modernity. Daylight saving time began as an idea to save money and improve people's lives, though it was ridiculed until the First World War, when it was put in place in Montreal and much of North America and Europe. Yet after the war, it was rejected as a national measure, and subsequently much of North America and eventually even the Island of Montreal turned into a patchwork of time zones. The article argues that the difficult beginnings of daylight saving time in Montreal were due to the unequal benefits of changing the clock, rural–urban tensions, the Canadian federal system, conflicts between ethno-religious institutions, Montreal's tenacious mayor, and the economic power of businesses to shape time.
Insérer les femmes dans l'histoire : le parcours d'une vie
Authors: Dumont Micheline
Published: October 2012

Résumé :

Dans ce texte, Micheline Dumont rappelle de quelle manière l'histoire est venue à occuper toute sa vie. Considérant d'abord, dans son enfance, l'histoire comme un répertoire de belles histoires, elle découvre progressivement les exigences de la science historique au cours de ses études. Après un détour à travers l'histoire acadienne et la didactique de l'histoire, des commandes lui permettent de découvrir l'histoire des femmes, dans sa matérialité d'abord, mais ensuite surtout dans sa signification théorique. Après plusieurs recherches et publications, elle en vient à réaliser la signification politique de l'enjeu que constitue l'histoire des femmes.
Quantitative Variations of Intracellular Microcystin-LR, -RR and -YR in Samples Collected from Four Locations in Hartbeespoort Dam in North West Province (South Africa) During the 2010/2011 Summer Season
Authors: Mbukwa Elbert A. , Msagati Titus A.M. , Mamba Bhekie B.
Published: October 2012

The Hartbeespoort (HBP) Dam is a reservoir used for agricultural, domestic supply of raw potable water and recreational activities in South Africa’s North-West Province. Eutrophication and cyanobacterial blooms have long been a cause of water-quality problems in this reservoir. The most prevalent bloom-forming species is Microcystis aeruginosa, often producing the toxin microcystin, a hepatotoxin which can negatively impact aquatic animal and human health, and poses a problem for potable water supply. Algal samples were collected monthly from four pre-determined sites in the dam during the summer months (December 2010–March 2011). Intracellular microcystins (MCs) were extracted using SPE C18 cartridges, followed by separation, identification and quantification using LC-ESI-MS techniques. Quantitative variation studies of MCs were conducted with respect to MC congener isolated, sampling site and month. Three main MC congeners (MC-RR, -LR and-YR) were isolated, identified and quantified. In addition, three minor MCs (MC-WR, MC-(H4)YR and (D-Asp3, Dha7)MC-RR were also identified, but were not quantified. The MC dominance followed the order MC-RR>MC-LR>MC-YR across all sites and time. The maximum and minimum concentrations were 268 µg/g and 0.14 µg/g DW for MC-RR and MC-YR, respectively, of the total MCs quantified from this study. One-way ANOVA showed that there were no significant differences between average MC concentrations recorded across months (P = 0.62), there was, however, a marginally-significant difference in concentrations among MC congeners (P = 0.06). ANCOVA revealed a highly significant interaction between sites and MC congeners on MC concentration (P < 0.001).
Preparation and Physicochemical Properties of Vinblastine Microparticles by Supercritical Antisolvent Process
Authors: Zhang Xiaonan , Zhao Xiuhua , Zu Yuangang , Chen Xiaoqiang , Lu Qi , Ma Yuliang , Yang Lei
Published: October 2012

The objective of the study was to prepare vinblastine microparticles by supercritical antisolvent process using N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone as solvent and carbon dioxide as antisolvent and evaluate its physicochemical properties. The effects of four process variables, pressure, temperature, drug concentration and drug solution flow rate, on drug particle formation during the supercritical antisolvent process, were investigated. Particles with a mean particle size of 121 ± 5.3 nm were obtained under the optimized process conditions (precipitation temperature 60 °C, precipitation pressure 25 MPa, vinblastine concentration 2.50 mg/mL and vinblastine solution flow rate 6.7 mL/min). The vinblastine was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and dissolution test. It was concluded that physicochemical properties of crystalline vinblastine could be improved by physical modification, such as particle size reduction and generation of amorphous state using the supercritical antisolvent process. Furthermore, the supercritical antisolvent process was a powerful methodology for improving the physicochemical properties of vinblastine.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure: Implications for Conservation of Wild Soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. et Zucc) Based on Nuclear and Chloroplast Microsatellite Variation
Authors: He Shuilian , Wang Yunsheng , Volis Sergei , Li Dezhu , Yi Tingshuang
Published: October 2012

Wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. et Zucc) is the most important germplasm resource for soybean breeding, and is currently subject to habitat loss, fragmentation and population decline. In order to develop successful conservation strategies, a total of 604 wild soybean accessions from 43 locations sampled across its range in China, Japan and Korea were analyzed using 20 nuclear (nSSRs) and five chloroplast microsatellite markers (cpSSRs) to reveal its genetic diversity and population structure. Relatively high nSSR diversity was found in wild soybean compared with other self-pollinated species, and the region of middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River (MDRY) was revealed to have the highest genetic diversity. However, cpSSRs suggested that Korea is a center of diversity. High genetic differentiation and low gene flow among populations were detected, which is consistent with the predominant self-pollination of wild soybean. Two main clusters were revealed by MCMC structure reconstruction and phylogenetic dendrogram, one formed by a group of populations from northwestern China (NWC) and north China (NC), and the other including northeastern China (NEC), Japan, Korea, MDRY, south China (SC) and southwestern China (SWC). Contrib analyses showed that southwestern China makes the greatest contribution to the total diversity and allelic richness, and is worthy of being given conservation priority.
Enhanced Built-Up and Bareness Index (EBBI) for Mapping Built-Up and Bare Land in an Urban Area
Authors: As-syakur Abd. Rahman , Adnyana I Wayan Sandi , Arthana I Wayan , Nuarsa I Wayan
Published: October 2012

Remotely sensed imagery is a type of data that is compatible with the monitoring and mapping of changes in built-up and bare land within urban areas as the impacts of population growth and urbanisation increase. The application of currently available remote sensing indices, however, has some limitations with respect to distinguishing built-up and bare land in urban areas. In this study, a new index for transforming remote sensing data for mapping built-up and bare land areas is proposed. The Enhanced Built-Up and Bareness Index (EBBI) is able to map built-up and bare land areas using a single calculation. The EBBI is the first built-up and bare land index that applies near infrared (NIR), short wave infrared (SWIR), and thermal infrared (TIR) channels simultaneously. This new index was applied to distinguish built-up and bare land areas in Denpasar (Bali, Indonesia) and had a high accuracy level when compared to existing indices. The EBBI was more effective at discriminating built-up and bare land areas and at increasing the accuracy of the built-up density percentage than five other indices.
Nutrient Management in Support of Environmental and Agricultural Sustainability
Authors: Whitmore Andrew P. , Goulding Keith W. T. , Glendining Margaret J. , Dailey A. Gordon , Coleman Kevin , Powlson David S.
Published: October 2012

Given that we must farm land in order to eat, the total environmental burden imposed by farming a crop, such as winter wheat in the UK, appears to be close to the minimum given current production techniques. The value of the services other than food production, such as flood water buffering, pollination, carbon storage and so on, that land can provide is relatively large compared with the value in reducing environmental burdens from pesticide use, nutrient pollution and greenhouse gas emissions that might arise by farming less intensively. More land will need to be brought into cultivation in order to provide the same amount of food if the intensity of farming is reduced and the resultant loss of ecosystem services (ES) outweighs the reduction in other burdens. Nevertheless, losses of nutrients, especially nitrogen (N), from agriculture are a serious concern and the current cost of the environmental footprint of agriculture is significant compared with the value of the food it produces. This article examines nutrient burdens and analyses the means by which the total environmental burden might be reduced relative to productivity. These include increasing the efficiency of farming, removing constraints to yield, and establishing multiple uses for land at the same time as farming. It concludes that agronomic measures which improve nutrient capture and which obtain more yield per unit area are valuable means to avoid degradation of environmental quality because both nutrient pollution and land consumption can be avoided.
Enhanced Heterosexual Transmission Hypothesis for the Origin of Pandemic HIV-1
Authors: Sousa João Dinis de , Alvarez Carolina , Vandamme Anne-Mieke , Müller Viktor
Published: October 2012

HIV-1 M originated from SIVcpz endemic in chimpanzees from southeast Cameroon or neighboring areas, and it started to spread in the early 20th century. Here we examine the factors that may have contributed to simian-to-human transmission, local transmission between humans, and export to a city. The region had intense ape hunting, social disruption, commercial sex work, STDs, and traffic to/from Kinshasa in the period 1899–1923. Injection treatments increased sharply around 1930; however, their frequency among local patients was far lower than among modern groups experiencing parenteral HIV-1 outbreaks. Recent molecular datings of HIV-1 M fit better the period of maximal resource exploitation and trade links than the period of high injection intensity. We conclude that although local parenteral outbreaks might have occurred, these are unlikely to have caused massive transmission. World War I led to additional, and hitherto unrecognized, risks of HIV-1 emergence. We propose an Enhanced Heterosexual Transmission Hypothesis for the origin of HIV-1 M, featuring at the time and place of its origin a coincidence of favorable co-factors (ape hunting, social disruption, STDs, and mobility) for both cross-species transmission and heterosexual spread. Our hypothesis does not exclude a role for parenteral transmission in the initial viral adaptation.
Polyploidy in Indian paintbrush (Castilleja; Orobanchaceae) species shapes but does not prevent gene flow across species boundaries
Authors: Hersch‐Green Erika I.
Published: October 2012

•Premise of study:A difference in chromosome numbers (ploidy variation) between species is usually considered a major barrier to gene flow. Therefore, it is surprising that little is known about whether ploidy variation, both within and among species, influences spatial patterns of interspecific hybridization. The role that polyploidy plays in structuring gene flow patterns between three co‐occurring Indian paintbrush (Castilleja) species is investigated.

•Methods:Reciprocal hand pollinations were performed in populations where the three species co‐occurwithandwithoutvariable plants (previous data tested the ancestral “hybrid” history of these variable plants). I measured fruit set, seed production, seed germination, and the DNA content of parent plants and 26 synthesized F1hybrids. Data were combined with pollinator fidelity data to estimate the contribution of individual barriers to reproductive isolation.

•Key results:Interspecific gene flow could occur in all directions, but barriers were weaker for conspecific vs. heterospecific crosses. Species were nearly fixed for different ploidy levels, but some deviations occurred, primarily in populations with variable plants. Interspecific gene flow could occur across ploidy levels, but it was more likely when species had the same number of chromosomes or when resulting F1hybrids had even numbers of chromosomes. Postzygotic reproductive barriers were generally weaker than pollinator fidelity.

•Conclusions:Polyploidy likely plays a large role in shaping contemporary and historical patterns of gene flow among these species. This study suggests that differences in chromosome numbers among closely related, compatible species might help structure spatial patterns of hybridization.
What’s Around Me?
Authors: Zhang Jing , Mao En
Published: October 2012

Businesses are increasingly aware of the power of mobile location-based services (LBS) in their success. For consumers, there are abundant options available. To understand the driving factors of consumers’ behavioral intention to use LBS and speak positively about LBS, a model of examining personal values and their influences was developed in this study. The model centers around a set of consumers’ personal consumption values (Sheth et al., 1991a, 1991b), including functional values exemplified by perceived usefulness and ease of use, social value, emotional value, epistemic value, and conditional value. Use behavior is also studied to reveal the learning process in the LBS context, i.e., consumers learn about their perceived values toward using LBS from their actual use. An online survey was conducted among 226 LBS users. The research model was tested by using SmartPLS. The authors found that consumers’ consumption values significantly influenced their intention to use LBS and spread positive word-of-mouth about LBS. Use behavior was also shown to significantly predict the consumption values. Both theoretical and business implications are discussed.
Drivers and Inhibitors of Mobile-Payment Adoption by Smartphone Users
Authors: Andreev Pavel , Pliskin Nava , Rafaeli Sheizaf
Published: October 2012

The widespread penetration of smart mobile devices has facilitated rapid growth of mobile location-based services (LBS), which provide users with a variety of benefits and are attractive from a marketing perspective. However, mobile-payment (M-Payment) adoption by users has been below expectations. For better understanding of drivers and inhibitors of the willingness to M-Pay for mobile LBS, this study contributes by conceptual modeling and empirical assessment of user willingness to M-Pay. To test the proposed conceptual research model, data from 122 valid responses were analyzed by employing the Partial Least Squares (PLS) technique. The findings show that Perceived Risk is the main inhibitor of user willingness to M-Pay for LBS and that the magnitude of this inhibitor’s negative impact is at least twice the magnitude of any driver’s positive impact.
Environmental geochemistry of tailings, sediments and surface waters collected from 14 historical gold mining districts in Nova Scotia
Authors: Parsons M B , LeBlanc K W G , Hall G E M , Sangster A L , Vaive J E , Pelchat P
Published: October 2012

From 1861 to the mid-1940s, stamp milling at orogenic lode gold mines in Nova Scotia generated more than 3,000,000 tonnes of tailings. Most of the mined gold was recovered using mercury (Hg) amalgamation, and an estimated 10 - 25% of the Hg used was lost to
the tailings and to the atmosphere. Arsenic (As) also occurs naturally in the ore, and is present at high concentrations in the mine wastes. Tailings from these operations were generally slurried into local rivers, swamps, lakes and the ocean. Recent land-use changes (e.g. residential development,
recreational activities, shellfish harvesting) in some historical mining districts are increasing the likelihood of human exposure to these tailings. This Open File Report presents the results of a multi-disciplinary investigation of the dispersion, speciation and fate of metal(loid)s in terrestrial
and shallow marine environments surrounding 14 abandoned gold mines in Nova Scotia. From 2003 to 2006, samples of tailings, sediment, and water were collected at 14 former gold mines. Field studies reveal that most mine sites contain large volumes of unconfined tailings, and in several districts
these have been transported significant distances (>2 km) offsite by streams and rivers. Chemical analyses of 482 tailings and sediment samples show high concentrations of As (10 mg/kg to 31 wt.%; median 2550 mg/kg) and Hg (<5 ug/kg to 350 mg/kg; median 1640 ug/kg). Arsenic
is hosted in arsenopyrite and a variety of secondary phases including scorodite (FeAsO4·2H2O), amorphous Fe arsenate, and As bound to Fe oxyhydroxides. Mercury is present in elemental form, amalgam (AuxHgx), and in secondary phases. Results from this study led to the formation of a
Provincial-Federal Historic Gold Mines Advisory Committee in 2005, which has evaluated the ecological and human health risks associated with gold mines throughout Nova Scotia and developed recommendations for management of these tailings sites. This Open File Report provides the most comprehensive
summary available of the history, distribution, and geochemistry of tailings at gold mines throughout Nova Scotia. The geographic coordinates provided for each district can be used to quickly explore the tailings deposits via most web-based mapping services. The results can be used to help minimize
the environmental impacts associated with past, present, and future gold extraction and to inform land-use decisions.
Juvenile Xanthogranuloma Presenting as Bilateral Non-Infiltrative Extraconal Superior Orbital Tumour in a 27 Year Old Nigerian Woman: Features, Management and Outcome
Authors: Chuka Okosa Michael , Darlinton Anyiam Daniel Chukwuemeka
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Orbital masses in adults are often caused by systemic diseases or are associated with systemic manifestations. Juvenile xanthogranuloma as a cause is rare and unreported in Africa. We present clinical features, management, and outcomes of bilateral orbital adult onset juvenile xanthogranuloma.

Case Presentation

A 27 year old Nigerian woman presented with bilateral upper-lid lumps having lasted 5 months. These increased in size for about 1 month and stopped. Lid swelling was preceded by itchy eyes, redness of conjunctiva, and occasional mild pain. There were no visual or systemic symptoms. The lumps were firm, slightly mobile, not tender, and not attached to skin but rather to deeper structures. There was restriction on up-gaze but no proptosis or diplopia. Hematological, biochemical, and X-ray investigations were normal. Prednisolone tablets 10 mg daily for two weeks were not useful. Tissue biopsy was invaluable in diagnosis of this rare condition and disclosed juvenile xanthogranuloma. Partial surgical excision was done under lidocaine infiltration. No recurrence has occurred in 40 months of follow-up. No systemic disease has manifested.

Conclusion

Juvenile xanthogranuloma can present as bilateral superior orbital tumor in adults; functional and cosmetic aims were achieved by sub-total excision.
Decitabine Induced Transient Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report
Authors: De Chitradeep , Phookan Jaya , Parikh Valay , Nagrani Tarun , Lakhani Mayur , Forte Frank , Lafferty James
Published: October 2012

Case Report

A 75-yr-old gentleman, with a past medical history of diabetes mellitus and Acute Myeloid Leukemia presented to our emergency department with a chief complaint of exertional dyspnea and chest pain. A week prior to this visit, he had recieved a cycle of decitabine chemotherapy at 20 mg/metered square for ten days. This was his second cycle of decitabine. His out patient medications included megesterol, omeprazole, morphine sulfate and insulin glargine. The patient was admitted to the Coronary Care Unit for Acute Coronary Syndrome. His cardiac enzymes were elevated (peak troponin 30 ng/mL, CKMB 67.4 ng/mL). His 12 lead EKG revealed sinus tachycardia with a ventricular rate of 113, but without acute ST–T wave changes. The BNP was 259 pg/mL. A 2D echo revealed moderate diffuse hypokinesis with an EF of 35%. He subsequently underwent a left heart catheterization, which showed non-obstructive CAD. In our patient, the elevated troponins (peak troponin 30 ng/mL) and BNP were seen concomitant with the onset of cardiogenic shock. Two months ago, his 2 D echocardiogram revealed an ejection fraction of about 55%–65% with slightly increased left ventricular (LV) wall thickness.

Discussion

The most common adverse effects of decitabine include cytopenia, nausea, pain and erythema/nodules at the injection site. To date, there has been only one reported case of a hypomethylating agent inducing acute myocarditis. We a present a case of reversible, non-ischemic cardiomyopathy secondary to decitabine chemotherapy, which resolved after the drug was discontinued. Trials involving decitabine for the treatment of MDS reported no myocarditis. In our case, the diagnosis of transient cardiomyopathy was highly probable since the patient's troponins and echocardiogram returned to baseline after discontinuation of treatment. Also, the patient never had any further chest pain at his 6 month follow up. In this case, we believe that the elevated Troponin I levels, along with a cardiac catheterization revealing patent coronary vessels, favor our hypothesis that our patient suffered from acute myocarditis as a result of direct toxicity from decitabine chemotherapy. We doubt that there was an underlying infectious etiology, since the patient had three negative blood cultures, two negative urine cultures and a negative viral serology. Our case demonstrates that chest pains in a patient treated with hypomethylating agents should be further explored in order to rule out acute myocarditis.
Seslerio uliginosae-Scorzoneretum purpureae (Festuco-Brometea class) in the Nida Basin (Małopolska Upland) after 90 years
Authors: Towpasz Krystyna , Stachurska-Swakoń Alina
Published: October 2012

Seslerio uliginosae-Scorzoneretum purpureae is the only xerothermic community of the Festuco-Brometea class, where a rare species known as Sesleria uliginosa occurs in Poland. A couple of sites hosting this association in the Nida Basin were described in the 1920s and 1950s. All these stands are now situated in the areas designated as xerothermic nature reserves. The study aimed at describing the present-day characteristics of this rare association, the most likely being endemic in Poland, as well as the changes that have occurred in it. The species diversity and the contribution of xerothermic plants have decreased significantly in terms of their number and cover coefficient. Some of the diagnostic species of the association have become extremely rare. Sesleria uliginosa is the only one without visible changes in their dominant position in the community. Mosses, that have played a significant role before, were among the vanished species. At the same time, an increase in number and cover of mesophilous meadows species was observed. Mesophilous grasses belong to the group of species growing in significance in the phytocoenoses. The observed changes in species composition were reflected in a statistically significant increase of nitrogen indicator value. The slow process of succession observed in the Seslerio-Scorzoneretum purpureae could be attributed to the lack of appropriate land use, e.g. mowing and grazing that have been ceased in the nature reserves.
Ampelomyces hyperparasites – occurrence and effect on the development of ascomata of Erysiphales species under conditions of anthropopressure
Authors: Sucharzewska Ewa , Dynowska Maria , Kubiak Dariusz , Ejdys Elżbieta , Biedunkiewicz Anna
Published: October 2012

Fungi of the genus Ampelomyces are the major antagonists of Erysiphales fungi being a significant group of phytopathogens. The hyperparasites attack various developmental stages of powdery mildews. As a result the infested ascomata do not reach the stage of maturity, do not form appendages nor ascospores, which is linked with a reduction of the source of primary infections. Studies conducted so far have mainly been devoted to Ampelomyces fungi application in the biological control of powdery mildews on crops, whilst a few only have been focused on the ecology of these mycoparasites on Erysiphales fungi infecting plants, especially in the urban environment. The present study addresses the natural occurrence and effect of Ampelomyces fungi on the development of ascomata of powdery mildews species. The material was collected in 2005–2009 in several cities of the northeastern Poland. First time ever Ampelomyces spores are reported in mature ascomata of Erysiphales with fully developed appendages. This phenomenon has been observed in the case of two species, viz.: Erysiphe flexuosa on Aesculus spp. and E. vanbruntiana var. sambuci-racemosae on Sambucus racemosa and is presumably linked with improved implementation, propagation and probably better survival during winter months.
Calculated characters of leaves are independent on environmental conditions in Salix herbacea (Salicaceae) and Betula nana (Betulaceae)
Authors: Marcysiak Katarzyna
Published: October 2012

The goal of the study was to check if the shape-describing characters, calculated as ratios of the morphological measured traits are more stable, compared to the latter, and can be treated as independent on environmental conditions. The test was based on the example of leaves of Salix herbacea and Betula nana. The individuals of the two populations of S. herbacea from Tatra Mts. were divided into two groups: with bigger and smaller leaves. The two populations of B. nana came from different substrata: the first one, collected from the mire on the lower altitude, had bigger leaves, and the second, collected from the granite plateau and higher altitude, had smaller leaves.

For both species, the measured traits were generally more variable than the ratios calculated on their basis, as expressed by the variation coefficients. The results of Students' t-test analyses showed statistically significant differences between the two groups of S. herbacea and the two populations of B. nana with respect to almost all the measured characters, and no such differences for the calculated traits, reflecting the leaf shape.

As the differentiation of the leaf size was probably bound to the environmental factors, the lack of the dependence of the leaf shape on the leaf size could lead to a conclusion of independence of the leaf shape on the environment conditions.
Macroalgae fouling community as quality element for the evaluation of the ecological status in Vela Luka Bay, Croatia
Authors: Jelic Mrcelic Gorana , Sliskovic Merica , Antolic Boris
Published: October 2012

One year qualitative and quantitative study of communities of three major taxonomic groups has been carried out at test panles placed in the upper infarlittoral zone of coastal area of Vela Luka Bay, Croatia. A list of 44 taxa was recorded. Chaetomorpha sp., Ulva sp., Fosliella farinosa, Sphacelaria cirrosa, Polysiphonia scopulorum were the most frequent dominant taxa. Among 27 algal taxa with noticeable presence only three were classified as ESG (Ecological State Groups) I. Low diversity and species richness together with massive presence of the green algae (as Ulva sp.) and negligible presence of ESG I taxa, may lead to erroneous conclusion that Vela Luka Bay is eutrophicated area. Low values of biomass and R/P (Rhodophyceae by Phaeophyceae ratio) Index together with dominance of Phaeophyta also support conclusion that there is no negative impact of nutrient enrichment on macrophyta fouling community in Vela Luka Bay.
The University of California, Davis, collaborative model for biotechnology education and training
Authors: Kjelstrom Judith Ann
Published: October 2012

UC Davis and its partners are addressing the need for innovation and entrepreneurship in graduate education and training. This paper will showcase the Designated Emphasis in Biotechnology graduate education program, cross-disciplinary partnerships and technology brokering. These interactions can bring diverse groups of individuals together to translate ideas into real world applications. The creation of intellectual and human capital at universities must be linked to financial capital and social capital. This can be accomplished by creating dense social networks. PhD programs in science and engineering must be transformed in order to stay relevant in the 21st century. UC Davis has been addressing these issues for close to 20 years and is now seeing significant outcomes.
“That Time of Month:” Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in the Criminal Law-Another Look
Authors: Langer Rosanna
Published: October 2012

This paper argues that women suffering from pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) ought to have available to them a range of legal defences that accurately reflect culpability. As PMDD focuses primarily on emotional mood and behavioural symptoms as opposed to physical manifestations of the premenstrual period, legal treatment of PMDD can be usefully compared to other “disordered states” that affect mental capacity, rationality and intent. Evolution of PMDD as a distinctive form of psychiatric disorder warrants a new consideration of the dual feminist concerns about the invisibility of women in criminal law theory and the undue labeling of all women. This article considers the application of criminal law defenses in light of newer research characterizing pre-menstrual mental disorder as a dynamic psychiatric and physiological state with shifting determinants that may be experienced differently over time. Ultimately, criminology must grapple with developing an account of women’s criminality that reflects accurately women’s lives lived within the sometimes overwhelming experience of biopsychosocial stressors. Reviewing PMDD in light of these concerns supports an enhanced understanding of the dynamics between women’s mental health and culpability.
Cannibalism and Gang Involvement in the Cinematic Lives of Asian Gangsters
Authors: Caires Richard J. De , Lankin Paul T. , Shon Phillip C
Published: October 2012

Previous works focusing on Asian organized crime groups have examined the history, structure, function, and the extent of their legal and illegal business enterprises. While credible, such a line of inquiry omits crucial information on the source and reasoning behind membership and affiliation for members in Asian organized crime groups, such as the “Jok-Pok”, Triads, and Yakuza. Due to the secretive nature of those organized crime groups, such an omission leaves a major gap in the understanding as to why Asian youths join gangs. This paper examines the prevailing characteristics of membership and affiliation within Asian gangs by analyzing Asian gangsters in Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) cinema. Results indicate that the lure of economic benefits, exposure to gang life from within one’s family and lack of opportunities to achieve legitimate goals constitute the three most pervasive themes that define membership within Asian gangs as represented in popular cinema.
Zola and the Serial Killer: Robert Black and La Bête Humaine
Authors: Lynes Adam , Wilson David , Jackson Craig
Published: October 2012

This article presents a critical analysis of Emile Zola’s Le Bête Humaine – a critical analysis which forms the basis of a case study of the real-life, British serial killer Robert Black. The fictional character of Jacques Lantier, a train driver living in France in the late 19th century, who is plagued by thoughts of committing murder is compared to Black - a former PDS van driver - who has been convicted of murdering four young girls between 1981 and 1986. The article explores Zola’s comments and warnings about the relationship between civilisation and the ever-advancing technology that it creates in order to better the human species or, as is the case of Lantier and Black, for the worse
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF SOLITARY WAVE EVOLUTION OVER A 3D SHALLOW SHELF
Authors: Lynett Patrick J. , Swigler David , Son Sangyoung , Bryant Duncan , Socolofsky Scott
Published: October 2012

A laboratory experiment was performed to investigate the three-dimensional turbulence and kinematic properties that develop due to a breaking solitary propagating over an irregular shallow water bathymetry. The bathymetry consisted of a deep water region connected to a shallow shelf via a relatively steep slope. The offshore boundary of the shelf break varied in the longshore direction, such that the shelf had a triangular shape in plan view, with the widest part of the shelf along the basin centerline. Free surface elevations and fluid velocities were measured using wave gauges and three-dimensional acoustic-Doppler velocimeters (ADVs), respectively. From the free surface elevations the evolution and runup of the wave was revealed; while from the ADVs, the velocity and turbulent energy was determined and specific turbulent events and coherent structures were identified.
It was found that significant shoaling was confined to areas with gentler sloping bathymetry near the basin side walls and the runup varied weakly in the alongshore direction. The runup was characterized by a refraction-generated jetting mechanism caused by the convergence of water mass near the basin centerline. The jetting mechanism caused the greatest cross-shore velocities to be located near the basin centerline. The greatest turbulent events were well correlated to borefronts, of which there were four, caused by the leading wave, beach reflections, and shelf-trapped oscillations. Along the shelf break, a large, shallow-water eddy developed which was found to have a peculiar three-dimensional flow field, where maximum velocity components were found at mid-depth.
TSUNAMI RUN-UP ON THE HORIZONTAL BEACH
Authors: Shugan Igor , Hwung Hwung-Hweng , Yang Ray-Yeng
Published: October 2012

Tsunami run-up on the flat horizontal beach is studied by using the Benney shallow water equations. The dam-breaking flow includes vortexes, vertical shear flow and dissipation of momentum and energy on the front due to bore breaking. Propagating of hydrodynamics bores with breaking is analyzed by the mass, momentum and energy relations on the shock wave. Non dissipative wave front propagates faster than classical bore, while taking into account the dissipation and wave breaking leads to slowing of the wave front.
STORM SURGE IN SETO INLAND SEA WITH CONSIDERATION OF THE IMPACTS OF WAVE BREAKING ON SURFACE CURRENTS
Authors: Lee Han Soo , Yamashita Takao , Komaguchi Tomoaki , Mishima Toyoaki
Published: October 2012

Storm surge and storm wave simulations in Seto Inland Sea (SIS) in Japan were conducted for Typhoon Yancy (9313) and Chaba (0416) using an atmosphere (MM5)-wave (SWAN)-ocean (POM) modeling system. In the coupled modeling system, a new method for wave-current interaction in terms of momentum transfer due to whitecapping in deep water and depth-induced wave breaking in shallow water was considered. The calculated meteorological and wave fields show good agreement with the observations in SIS and its vicinities. The storm surge results also exhibit good accordance with the observations in SIS. To resolve a number of islands in SIS, we also performed numerical experiments with different grid resolutions and obtained improved results from higher resolutions in wave and ocean circulation fields.
UNCERTAINTY OF EXTREME STORM SURGE ESTIMATION BY HIGH WIND SEA SURFACE DRAG COEFFICIENT AND FUTURE TYPHOON CHANGE
Authors: Kawai Hiroyasu , Hashimoto Noriaki , Yamashiro Masaru , Yasuda Tomohiro
Published: October 2012

Japan has been constructing long coastal defense since the storm surge disaster with a loss of 5,000 lives by Typhoon Vera in 1959. The defense is designed for the storm water level including the storm surge of the standard typhoon based on Typhoon Vera. Stochastic typhoon model, simulating various typhoon track and intensity with Monte Carlo method, is one of useful tools to estimate the return period. According to recent research output the return period of the storm surge of the standard typhoon is near 100 years or more at three major bays in Japan. But there is uncer-tainty by some of parameters and models in the stochastic simulation. Sea surface drag coefficient under high wind speed and future change in typhoon intensity and track are critical to extreme values of the storm surges.
RAPID PROBABILISTIC HURRICANE SURGE AND DAMAGE FORECASTING USING SURGE RESPONSE FUNCTIONS
Authors: Irish Jennifer Linnea , Ferreira Celso , Olivera Francisco , Udoh Ikpoto , Song Youn Kyung , Chang Kunag-An
Published: October 2012

In this paper, a joint probability approach is used with scaling laws for hurricane surge to rapidly develop probabilistic based hurricane surge and damage forecasts. The method presented is demonstrated along the Texas, USA coastline for Hurricane Ike, which made landfall in September of 2008. The probabilistic approach presented here is both accurate and fast, with a single surge and percent damage forecast taking less than one minute while representing more than 170,000 distinct hurricane possibilities.