bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘An intimate rendezvous with nature’?
Authors: Markwell Kevin
Published: June 2009

This article examines the interactions between tourists and nature at three nature-based tourist attractions in the East Malaysian state of Sabah, on the island of Borneo. It pays particular attention to the ways in which the tourist body is implicated in these experiences and it argues that the body plays a crucial role in these experiences, sometimes ‘getting in the way’ of enjoyment of nature. The article also discusses the various boundaries which can be identified at tourist sites which serve to delimit tourist from wild nature, and it discusses the ways in which these boundaries shape the tourist experience.
Theorizing Other discourses of tourism, gender and culture
Authors: Aitchison Cara
Published: June 2009

At its broadest level, this article is concerned with identifying, reviewing and developing synergies between three subject fields that have experienced rapid growth over the last two decades: tourism studies, gender studies and wider cultural theory. At a more specific level, the article seeks to review the interface between structural and cultural power in the construction of gender relations and gendered Others in tourism. The article adopts and adapts poststructural and postcolonial feminist critiques that have placed emphasis on the symbolic, textual, discursive and performative construction of the Other. Seeing the Other person or people as merely subaltern in tourism is problematized when we listen to these poststructural and postcolonial feminist voices. These voices articulate discourses that speak of the complexity of tourism and gender relations. In doing so, however, these academic voices create yet further possibilities of representing Others and raise additional questions about authors, authority and the subaltern’s speech. Thus, tourism, through its association with the exotic and erotic, is critiqued as a complex media, medium and mediator of symbolic and material power in the Othering of gender and culture as part of the fluid process of tourism and global consumption where issues of power and representation are continually tested and contested.
Passing through Pangnirtung
Authors: O’Hara Charles
Published: June 2009

Tourism studies have long been interested in the relationship between the tourism experience and tourists’ perceptions of the destinations they visit. More recent studies have explored tourists’ reflexive engagement with the tourism experience. This article argues that tourists’ reflexivity is best seen as emerging within what Henri Lefebvre would call a social space. The conceptualization of the tourism destination as social space draws attention to the practices involved in its (re)creation. In particular, the article argues that the circulation of rumour is an important practice through which the tourism space is (re)created. The analysis of tourists visiting Pangnirtung, Nunavut shows that perceptions are not something which tourists ‘consume’ from tourism marketing and then ‘possess’. Instead, perceptions often have the quality of rumour. The conceptualization of touristic knowledge as rumour shows how perceptions are continually open to contestation and, potentially, change. However, circulating rumours is not simply a question of what tourists ‘believe’ or ‘disbelieve’, but something they do. An engagement with rumours reflects tourists’ engagement with the tourism space and, hence, rumours must be continually (re)created at the level of practice. The article explores this process by looking at some of the rumours that circulated among tourists passing through Pangnirtung.
Encountering otherness
Authors: Fullagar Simone
Published: June 2009

In the essay ‘Tawantinsuyu’, Alphonso Lingis poses some important questions about the highly mediated nature of our contemporary experience of the world, by juxtaposing them with a post-phenomenological account of his journey through the ruins of Machu Picchu. Not content with knowledge produced through Internet of CD-ROM technology, Lingis desires an embodied encounter with other places. Without lapsing into a notion of unmediated experience, how might we theorize this desire to know the particularity of other places through the sensory, affective body? The article reads Lingis’s travel narrative alongside insights from Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenology of the flesh, to explore how we might think about the liminal quality of travel as it produces a unique in-between experience - an intersubjective relation between oneself and the difference of the world that is mediated by visual and tactile modalities. The work of French feminist Luce Irigaray is also explored in relation to the question of how we begin to understand the embodied boundaries that differentiate and connect the self in relation to the other’s world.
Revisiting the concept of hosts and guests
Authors: Sherlock Kirsty
Published: June 2009

The concept of hosts and guests has patterned the social impact of tourism literature since Smith’s seminal collection in the late 1970s. However, recent moves to embrace the insights of postmodern and post-structuralist theories in tourism have suggested that these binary oppositions should be revisited. For example, Feifer’s idea of the post-tourist suggests links between the tourist experience and the everyday aestheticized consumption practices that pattern life in post-Fordist society. Using data generated during a community study of a north Queensland tourism town, the article illustrates the contested nature of hosts and guests. The blurred notions of hosts and guests highlighted the way in which participants’ motivations to migrate to the town mirrored the destination marketing for the town, focused on a tropical lifestyle. However, there are conflicting versions of this lifestyle, which have implications for the destination’s sense of community and sense of place.
Tourism and the environment, the other side of the coin
Authors: Bauer Irmgard L.
Published: June 2009

The rapid growth in tourism has lead to an increased need for suitable health education designed to ensure safe and healthy travel. While this advice usually concentrates on appropriate behaviour and preventable infections, it rarely includes the environmental health hazards travellers are exposed to. This article attempts to demonstrate the wide range of such health hazards. It is then argued that the current approach to risk management and health education may be based on a framework which ignores the strong interdependence between environment and humans as proposed, for example, by Beck, and hence fails to develop strategies which can minimize environmental harm to travellers. The need of a new approach is discussed to allow innovative research which will provide a better knowledge base for such strategies.
Petra
Authors: Lingis Alphonso
Published: June 2009

In Jordan there is an ancient site in a hollow opened by ancient earthquakes and now entered through a narrow gorge, where the mountain walls have been carved in gigantic facades. It is one of the most astonishing sights eyes can see. It was created by a Nabatean kingdom of which very little is known. It supplies an experience for a reflection on the ecstasy of vision.
Showing seeing: a critique of visual culture
Authors: Mitchell W. J.T.
Published: June 2009

This essay attempts to map out the main issues surrounding visual studies as an emergent academic formation, and as a theoretical concept or object of research and teaching. After a survey of some of the resistances encountered by visual studies in fields such as art history, aesthetics, and media studies, and a suggestion that visual studies is playing the role of ‘dangerous supplement’ to these fields, the essay turns to a discussion of some of the major received ideas that have seemed foundational to both negative and positive accounts of visual studies. These received ideas or myths include notions of the de-materialization of the image, and the erasure of boundaries between art and non-art, or visual and verbal media. They also include notions such as the very idea that there are such things as distinctly ‘visual media’. The political stakes of iconoclastic criticism (e.g. the overturning of ‘scopic regimes’) are also questioned, and an alternative (Nietzschean) strategy of ‘sounding the idols’ is proposed. The essay concludes with a description of pedagogical strategies in the teaching of visual culture, centered on an exercise the author calls ‘showing seeing’.
Cultural relativism and the visual turn
Authors: Jay Martin
Published: June 2009

The recent explosion of interest in visual culture has often been premised on the assumption that distinct scopic regimes or visual practices are relative to the cultures out of which they emerge. Any naturalist hope of locating transcendental visual experience prior to its cultural coding is thus taken to be in vain. This article takes issue with this premise, not by returning to a discredited naturalism, but rather by putting pressure on the culture concept itself. Drawing on the work of such theorists as Bruno Latour, David McDougall and Régis Debray, it argues that visual experience presents a challenge to the belief that it is ‘culture all the way down’. Although it does not claim that arguments for relativism can be entirely refuted, it does conclude that an exploration of visuality shows that grounding them in the alleged incommensurability of cultures is unpersuasive.
Pop-up theory: distraction and consumption in the age of meta-information
Authors: Rutsky R. L.
Published: June 2009

The cable television program Pop Up Video seems to serve as a textbook example of distraction in an age of information. Yet, distraction, at least as Walter Benjamin used the term, was never simply a matter of a deficit of attention, but always implied a scattering or dispersion, which Benjamin saw as constitutive of modern mass culture. Exploring this notion of distraction as dispersion in relation to Pop Up Video and other ‘meta-forms’, this article seeks to show how Benjamin’s idea of ‘reception in a state of distraction’ continues to provide insights into how information is disseminated and consumed in contemporary media and information culture.
Miami Miautre
Authors:   The Florida Research Ensemble (FRE), Ulmer Gregory L. , Tilson William , Freeman John Craig , Revelle Barbara Jo , Pappenheimer Will
Published: June 2009

The Florida Research Ensemble is a creative research group formed at the University of Florida in the late 1980s to explore the possibilities of image technologies. MIAMI MIAUTRE (MM) details the invention of an institutional practice - testimonial - specifically intended to help produce a virtual civic sphere. As a deconstruction of conventional consulting, the FRE established the EmerAgency - an online, virtual, distributed, agency - whose purpose is to add a new voice to the collective pedagogy of consulting. The prototype consultation addresses the Miami River, site of every policy issue in the state of Florida: pollution, tourism, crime, gentrification, historic preservation, drugs, immigration, corruption, and the like. Jo Revelle documented the river scene during a five-week stay in the summer of 1998, motivated by her ‘burning question’ (‘what is my situation with Ron?’). The photographic answer, entitled ‘Crossroads’, attunes the place into a chora, manifesting the ordering principles of the civic sphere. Revelle’s mapping of the zone uses Ulmer’s theories of choragraphy and mystory to extend Situationist psychogeographic mappings based on urban moods. Photographic images become categorical through a singular correspondence of individual/collective mood.
Freedom(S) of the Press in Latin America
Authors: Perkins Michael
Published: June 2009

This study documents the emergence of the societal right to freedom of the press in the international human rights law of Latin America. Relying on legal research and analysis methodology, this article examines cases from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights that address press freedom vis-a-vis prior restraints, desacato laws, violent attacks on journalists and mandatory colegio membership for journalists. The study concludes that the societal right to a free press, like the individual right, is a guarantee against governmental intrusion in the free flow of information and ideas necessary in a democracy.
Pushing the Limits of Tolerance
Authors: Tunç Asli
Published: June 2009

Throughout the history of democracy, political cartoonists have not hesitated to swing their pens like a battle-ax against injustice, lack of freedom or political corruption. This article calls for more concerted scholarly attention to the role and function of political cartoonists in the democratization process. By focusing on how political cartoonists have tackled controversial issues and criticized the political establishment throughout American and European history, the article explores the dilemmas of Turkish political cartoonists and their courageous struggle over the political and social constraints between 1869 and 2000. Particular attention here is given to the socio-political structure of Turkey in the post-1923 period. The author argues that editorial cartoonists' role as a safety valve to undermine dogmas and the status quo contributed to Turkey's attempts to be a more democratic society.
Reform and Challenge
Authors: Yu Xu  , Chu Leonard L. , Guo Zhongshi
Published: June 2009

A survey of 30 of China's journalism and communication schools traces changes and continuity in the country's journalism education in the past three decades during which dramatic economic and sociopolitical reforms were implemented. Guided by the classic theories of the press and their more recent extensions, this study focuses on two major areas of observation and analysis: (1) journalism schools' internal structural adaptation to the changing social environment; and (2) facilitating forces and constraints imposed on journalism education reform stemming from a unique mixture of commercialization under authoritarian political control. The authors found increasingly intimate ties between pedagogical strategies and market demands. However, despite attempts to push the ideological limits towards more liberalized training, journalism schools continue to yield to political pressure for conformity to the orthodox party line.
Use of Logistic Regression Analysis in the Diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Stieler Mark A.
Published: June 2009

Supraspinatus tendonitis secondary to subacromial impingement is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain.Subacromial impingement is a heter ogeneous condition with many possible causes, ranging from anatomical abnormalities of the coracoacromial arch to functional derangements allowing superior migration of the humeral head during elevation of the arm.Because of this heterogeneity, it is difficult to diagnose this condition with ultrasound using only 1 or 2 criteria.In this study, a wide range of diagnostic parameters was used in a logistic regression model to provide an accurate, objective method for the sonographic diagnosis of subacromial impingement in the intact rotator cuff.
The Diagnostic Value of Ultrasound in Differentiating Obstructive from Nonobstructive Azoospermia Based on the Presence of Testicular Microlithiasis
Authors: Qublan Hussein S. , Al-Ghoweri Ahmad S. , Al-Jader Khalaf M. , Kakish Michel E. , Al-Kaisi Nabih S. , Abu-Khait Sami A. , Shehadeh Awad
Published: June 2009

A total of 32 azoospermic men aged 24 to 54 years were studied perspectively at King Hussein Medical Center.Patient history, semen analyses, hormonal status, and testicular volume were analyzed.High-resolution ultrasound scan machine with a 7.0-MHz transducer was performed on all patients to detect testicular microlithiasis.Testicular biopsy was per formed on all patients.Based on the clinical findings outlined in this article, it is concluded that testicular ultrasound examination is a simple, rapid, and non-invasive diagnostic tool in evaluating the testicular body.Based on testicular volume, hormonal status, presence, and degree of testicular microlithiasis, ultrasound scanning has a significant role in differentiating OA from NOA.
Burnout
Authors: Daugherty Julie M.
Published: June 2009

Burnout is an individual's reaction to chronic stress. Using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, this study surveyed a sample of sonographers and vascular technologists in the state of Tennessee.The objec tives of the study were to (1) determine whether there is a relationship of individual demographic characteristics, job-related variables, and/or career-related variables to the 3 sequential stages of burnout; (2) determine at what levels do sonographers and vascular technologists experience burnout compared to a national norm; and (3) determine whether sonographers and vascular technologists could identify methods of diminishing chronic stress in the workplace environment.Statistical analysis indicated that sonographers and vascular technologists experience moderate levels of all 3 sequential stages of burnout.
Soft-Tissue Sarcoma of the Right Thigh
Authors: Perry Beth
Published: June 2009

This is a case study of extremity soft-tissue sarcoma of the right thigh.Ultrasound identified a mass and a surgical specimen diagnosed malignant fibrous histiocytoma, the histological subtype of soft-tissue sarcoma.Soft-tissue sarcoma is a relatively rare type of cancer in which the patient's prognosis is dependent on the histologic grade, size, and location of the tumor.
Acute Frontal Sinus Fracture
Authors: Bahner David Paul , Bradley Jeffrey A. , Rund Douglas A.
Published: June 2009

Frontal sinus fractures typically occur as a result of direct facial trauma.The fracture may cause signifi cant swelling and hematoma at the site of injury, which makes it difficult for palpation of the bony outer table.The authors describe a patient with a frontal sinus fracture.The sonographic findings were confirmed by facial computed tomography. Following reconstructive surgery, ultrasound demonstrated successful reduction and surgical fixation of the fracture fragment.
Identical Twins Presenting with Dandy-Walker Malformation and Twin-Twin Transfusion
Authors: Lennon Karen
Published: June 2009

This report will describe the detection and treatment of 2 unusual entities: duplicated Dandy-Walker malformation as a result of identical twinning and twin-twin transfusion syndrome, which is unique to monochorionic pregnancies.Ultrasound plays a valuable role in the prenatal recognition of these anomalies, allowing for the option of fetal karyotyping, antenatal intervention, or postnatal follow up.
Antenatal Diagnosis of Short Umbilical Cord Syndrome
Authors: Mitchell Carol C. , Yeast John , Dobson J. R.
Published: June 2009

Short umbilical cord syndrome is an abnormality that consists of a short umbilical cord, an abdominal wall defect, and frequently severe scoliosis. Usually, the fetus has a normal karyotype. The authors report a case in which the fetus carried a maternally derived balanced translocation (Robertsonian, 13, 15 45XY, der 13;15) (q10;q10), a short umbilical cord (4 cm), and cystic hygromas.
Coded Harmonic Imaging in the Evaluation of Posterior Tibial Tendon Injury
Authors: Leahy Elizabeth , Van Holsbeeck Marnix
Published: June 2009

Coded harmonic imaging has excellent contrast resolution and is very advantageous in diagnosing musculoskeletal pathology. In this article, the authors present a case of a posterior tibial tendon tear using coded harmonics to best define the extent and type of injury for better treatment.
Hydrops Fetalis in a Documented Parvovirus Infection Causing Fetal Mortality
Authors: Cervantez Diane M. , Roberts Donald L. , Hazen Melanie J.
Published: June 2009

Hydrops fetalis is the most deadly complication of parvovirus in pregnancy. This case shows the devastating consequences of the parvovirus infection in a second-trimester fetus and is a valuable reminder that the human parvo B19 virus is an ever-present danger to the fetus.
Sonographic Evaluation of Extensor Tenosynovitis
Authors: Evans Kevin D. , Farooki Shella
Published: June 2009

This is a case report of tenosynovitis of the second and third extensor tendon compartments of the wrist. The report is unique in that tenosynovitis was evaluated with a combination of gray-scale sonographic images with and without an acoustic standoff pad, real-time examination, and color and spectral Doppler interrogation. Tenosynovitis is a nonspecific, inflammatory process affecting the tendon sheath and may occur as a result of infection, trauma, or inflammatory arthropathy such as rheumatoid arthritis. This case most likely represents an inflammatory type of extensor tenosynovitis. Symptoms, sonographic findings, and treatment options are briefly discussed.
A Rare Case of Duplicated Placenta and Bifurcated Umbilical Cord in a Singleton Pregnancy
Authors: Walkup Dianne W. M.
Published: June 2009

A true double placenta is a rare event, and a bifurcated umbilical cord is a virtually unreported phenomenon in a singleton pregnancy. This case report describes a singleton pregnancy diagnosed prenatally with both entities.
Prenatal Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia at 11 Weeks Gestation
Authors: Kim Moon-Jeong , Cho Jeong Yeon
Published: June 2009

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a major malformation. Early diagnosis is in itself an important factor for the prediction of the outcome. The authors present a case of left-sided fetal diaphragmatic hernia diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasound examination at 10 weeks, 5 days gestation.
The Fetus.Net
Authors: Hale Donna M. , Mcshane Cyrethia
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this article is to familiarize those interested in the field of obstetrical ultrasound with an Internet site dedicated to the subject—a site created by and contributed to those in the field. The Web site created by Dr. Philippe Jeanty offers a wealth of comprehensive information and images that can be used by sonographers, physicians, and parents.
The Use of Sonography in the Detection of Bony and Calcific Disorders of the Shoulder
Authors: Stieler Mark A.
Published: June 2009

Sonography is commonly used for the evaluation of shoulder symptoms. This report describes some of the bony and/or calcific changes that may be visualized in the ultrasound examination of the shoulder and may not have been detected by other modalities. Sonography is able to accurately predict the diameter of the acromioclavicular joint as well as determine the presence or absence of osteoarthritis at this joint. The os acromiale is amenable to ultrasonic detection also. Sonography appears to be more sensitive in the detection of rotator cuff calcification than the standard shoulder x-ray series and has the additional advantage of precise localization of the tendon of origin of the calcification. Sonography is able to reliably detect fractures around the greater tuberosity, and the Hill-Sachs lesion may also be seen. Changes of irregularity, cyst formation, and sclerosis around the greater tuberosity may occur in association with the impingement syndrome. These changes lead to irregularity of the greater tuberosity. Sonography can detect these changes and, to some degree, grade their severity.
Ultrasound Evaluation and Clinical Management of Persistent Gestational Sac in a Cervical Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Mauk Vicki L. , Forcier Gary L.
Published: June 2009

Early diagnosis with vaginal ultrasound is critical to the conservative management of cervical ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasound findings of a persistent gestational sac within the endocervical canal during medical treatments, when accompanied by a continued decline in HCG levels, does not necessarily signal a failure of the medical treatment.
Sonographic Findings in Fetal Alpha Thalassemia Major
Authors: Kozirovsky Mariana , Shvetsova Julia
Published: June 2009

Alpha thalassemia major is an autosomal recessive disease found mostly in Southern Chinese and Southeast Asians. It is caused by deletion of alpha globin genes. Normally, there are four alpha genes. 1Some cases lead to lifelong dependence on transfusions, with iron buildup and shortened life duration. Depending on the number of genes affected, the fetus may die in utero or very soon after birth.2
Uterine Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Sulzdorf Linda
Published: June 2009

Uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) most commonly present with vaginal hemorrhage. A case of uterine AVM diagnosed in a patient who arrived in the emergency department with heavy vaginal bleeding 5 weeks postpartum is presented. Etiology, sonographic color duplex diagnostic criteria, and treatment options are discussed.
An Uncommon Finding
Authors: Williams Debra L. , Cunningham Michael E.
Published: June 2009

Varicoceles are a frequently identified pathology noted within the scrotum. Sonographically, they present as dilated vascular structures within the spermatic cord. Real-time pulsed-wave Doppler imaging reveals these structures as venous in nature. Male infertility is often related to varicoceles. Intratesticular varicoceles are uncommon, with dilated vascular structures located within the testis itself.
Prenatal Ultrasound Diagnosis of Meconium Peritonitis Secondary to Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Weiner Neal H.
Published: June 2009

This case study describes the ultrasound diagnosis of meconium peritonitis associated with cystic fibrosis. Meconium peritonitis is an intense, inflammatory reaction of the fetal peritoneum due to intrauterine bowel perforation. Because meconium ileus secondary to cystic fibrosis can account for 25% to 40% of meconium peritonitis cases, cystic fibrosis must be a strong consideration. Accurate prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of meconium peritonitis and subsequent testing for cystic fibrosis can aid in establishing an appropriate surgical and therapeutic management plan.
The Role of Echocardiography in the Evaluation of Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Lim Megan Emily , Pope Jeff
Published: June 2009

The growing population of heart failure patients and the corresponding increase in demand for donor hearts has led to the need of alternate medical therapies. The availability of donor hearts is scarce, transplant is expensive, and many patients are too ill to withstand the transplant operation. Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have aided in the treatment leading up to heart transplantation and the recovery of reversible myocardial damage. With the increasing use of LVADs, echocardiography has become an extensive diagnostic aid in the evaluation of patients with LVADs. Because of this growing use of LVADs, it is necessary for sonographers to have a complete and current awareness of these devices. This literature review aims to expand the echocardiographer's knowledge of LVADs and to offer suggestions and techniques that may help in the evaluation of a patient with an LVAD.
Improved Sonographic Accuracy in the Presurgical Diagnosis of Diffuse Adenomyosis
Authors: Schneider Sharon L. , Craig Marveen , Branning Pamela
Published: June 2009

Adenomyosis is a fairly common benign gynecological condition resulting from an exag-gerated growth of the endometrium at the endometrial myometrial interface. Progressive penetration of endometrial glands and stroma into the myometrium can produce the smooth muscle hyperplasia that ultimately leads to uterine enlarge-ment. The disease most commonly affects women 40 to 50 years of age and is associated with a past history of childbirth. Adenomyosis is an important cause of dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia. Because of its nonspecific nature, until recently, the diagnosis was made only after hysterectomy. Transvaginal sonography, with its concomitant higher resolution, shows renewed promise for the presurgical diagnosis of this disease.
Right Cardiac Axis on Early Transvaginal Ultrasonography
Authors: Lee Soo-Young , Cho Jeong Yeon , Park Ju-Hyun , Min Jee-Yeon , Lee Young-Ho
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this study is to suggest the importance of precise observation of cardiac axis and cardiovisceral situs on transvaginal ultrasonography. The authors report 2 cases of major cardiac malformation diagnosed at the first trimester by right cardiac axis on the transvaginal ultrasonography. Two cases of dextrocardia were corrected transposition of the great arteries with absent right atrioventricular connection and complete atrioventricular septal defect with severe pulmonary stenosis associated with left isomerism. Left-sided stomach with right cardiac axis on transvaginal screening sonography can be a key finding in the early diagnosis of major cardiac malformations.
Septated Ascites and Cholelithiasis
Authors: Bouffard Joyce , Lalouche Kathleen , Gieringer Sharon , Kohan Aimee Torraca , Moger Adrian , MacLaughlin Winthrop S.
Published: June 2009

Calculus disease in the gallbladder usually results in postprandial attacks of the right upper quadrant and epigastric pain that prompt early medical evaluation and treatment. When calculus biliary disease progresses to severe inflammation of the gall-bladder, it may progress to rupture and fistula formation. When rupture does occur, it is usually confined by an adjacent viscous to the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. The following case details a clinical course of advanced biliary disease with gallbladder rupture in an elderly patient whose reticence allowed the disease to progress to an advanced state.
The Role of Ultrasound in Diagnosing and Managing a Monochorionic-Monoamniotic Twin Gestation With an Anencephalic Twin
Authors: Zerbo Patricia Ann
Published: June 2009

This report presents a case of a monoamnioticmonochorionic twin gestation with a marginal placental insertion site, adjacent umbilical cords, entangled umbilical cords, abnormally long cords, one fetus affected with anencephaly, and another twin with no apparent abnormalities.
Complete Twin Molar Pregnancy
Authors: Mccartie Jennifer D.
Published: June 2009

Molar pregnancy, also known as gestational trophoblastic disease, is one of the most common benign tumors, occurring in 1 in 1000 pregnancies in the United States. Sonography plays a major role in diagnosing a molar pregnancy and monitoring the complications that may occur when a fetus is involved. The author presents the case of a complete twin molar pregnancy, the rarest form. In most cases, the fetus is terminated or does not survive. In this case, the patient, acknowledging the risks, decided to proceed with the pregnancy.
Contrast Agents and Contrast Imaging in Ultrasound
Authors: Ortman Lezlie
Published: June 2009

This article reviews studies using ultrasound contrast agents and discusses several of the contrast agents currently available. The anatomical areas that are enhanced by contrast, examination, and techniques, are used in imaging with contrast agents.
Familial Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma:
Authors: Dunn Peggy , Michael Kim , Stevens Sherri
Published: June 2009

In the United States, pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the fourth leading cause of adult cancer mortality. Ten percent of cases of pancreatic cancer are hereditary. With earlier detection, the prognosis could, theoretically, be improved. Researchers are studying families with an increased incidence of pancreatic cancer to identify a population at high risk for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Endosonography or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is useful in imaging the pancreas, making early detection a possibility. EUS screening in patients with a history of this disease may help identify a precursor lesion to pancreatic cancer.
Alternative Echocardiographic Methods to Assess Left Ventricular Diastolic Function
Authors: Waggoner Alan D.
Published: June 2009

The standard noninvasive method to assess left ventricular diastolic function has been pulsed Doppler echocardiographic recordings of mitral inflow early diastolic (E) and atrial (A) filling velocities and the ratio of E to A, in combination with isovolumic relaxation and deceleration times. Pulmonary venous inflow velocities (systolic, diastolic, and atrial reversal) are used to assess left atrial and left ventricular end-diastolic pressures. These measurements are influenced by changes in preload, including left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, left atrial or pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and left ventricular volumes. Newer methods such as tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) of the mitral annulus and color M-mode recording of left ventricular diastolic flow propagation (FP) have now evolved as additional techniques for detecting abnormalities in left ventricular diastolic function that can complement the standard pulsed Doppler echocardiography methods. Both TDI and color M-mode flow FP appear to offer distinct advantages as relatively load-independent measures of diastolic function. TDI can be used for measurement of regional diastolic myocardial velocities at the mitral annulus, and it is particularly useful in identifying abnormalities of left ventricular diastolic relaxation or estimation of left ventricular filling pressures. Color M-mode FP can be used for quantification of abnormalities of left ventricular relaxation and diastolic filling characteristics of the left ventricle.
Case Studies
Authors: Briare Laurie , Glassford Dianne , Heidinger Dianna , Bohman Van R.
Published: June 2009

Brain heterotopia is a rare anomaly that can occur in the pharynx, orbit, nasal cavity, and maxillofacial region. These lesions have been known to present as cystic structures and contain cerebrospinal fluid with no cranial communication.
Endometrial Sarcoma With Intracardiac Extension
Authors: Gresham Denni , Digiacinto Dora
Published: June 2009

Endometrial stromal sarcoma with intracardiac extensions is a rare and life-threatening occurrence. Proper diagnosis through diagnostic imaging and pathologic studies is important for improved patient outcome.
Sputtered YSZ based protective thin films for SOFCs
Authors: Shaula A. L. , Oliveira J. C. , Kolotygin V. A. , Kharton V. V. , Cavaleiro A. A.
Published: June 2009

Protective Zr(Y)O2– δ based films, deposited using magnetron sputtering, onto apatite type ceramics, were appraised for potential applications in solid oxide fuel cells with silicate based solid electrolytes, where performance may suffer from surface decomposition processes in reducing atmospheres. While as prepared Zr(Y)O2– δ films without copper additive were already crystallised and single phase, fresh Cu containing Zr(Y)O2– δ are essentially amorphous, requiring high temperature treatment in air for crystallisation. Deposition rate of 0·50–0·75 μm h–1 at sputtering power of 300 W was achieved. Surface morphology studies using atomic force microscope revealed typical film structures with small (<50 nm) grains. The hardness of films decreases from 15·8 to 8·4 GPa with increasing copper content. Polarisation studies of electrochemical cell with cermet anodes, applied over protective films, suggested that electrochemical reaction is essentially governed by oxygen anion transfer from zirconia phase and/or hydrogen oxidation in vicinity of zirconia film surface. Copper incorporation into Zr(Y)O2– δ film leads to higher anode resistivity.
Spatiotemporal regulation of intracellular trafficking of Toll-like receptor 9 by an inhibitory receptor, Ly49Q
Authors: Yoshizaki Mariko , Tazawa Aya , Kasumi Eiji , Sasawatari Shigemi , Itoh Kenji , Dohi Taeko , Sasazuki Takehiko , Inaba Kayo , Makrigiannis Andrew P. , Toyama-Sorimachi Noriko
Published: June 2009

Toll-like receptor (TLR) 9 recognizes unmethylated microorganismal cytosine guanine dinucleotide (CpG) DNA and elicits innate immune responses. However, the regulatory mechanisms of the TLR signaling remain elusive. We recently reported that Ly49Q, an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif–bearing inhibitory receptor belonging to the natural killer receptor family, is crucial for TLR9-mediated type I interferon production by plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Ly49Q is expressed in plasmacytoid dendritic cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, but not natural killer cells. In this study, we showed that Ly49Q regulates TLR9 signaling by affecting endosome/lysosome behavior. Ly49Q colocalized with CpG in endosome/lysosome compartments. Cells lacking Ly49Q showed a disturbed redistribution of TLR9 and CpG. In particular, CpG-induced tubular endolysosomal extension was impaired in the absence of Ly49Q. Consistent with these findings, cells lacking Ly49Q showed impaired cytokine production in response to CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide. Our data highlight a novel mechanism by which TLR9 signaling is controlled through the spatiotemporal regulation of membrane trafficking by the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif–bearing receptor Ly49Q.
Factor H–related protein 1 (CFHR-1) inhibits complement C5 convertase activity and terminal complex formation
Authors: Heinen Stefan , Hartmann Andrea , Lauer Nadine , Wiehl Ulrike , Dahse Hans-Martin , Schirmer Sylvia , Gropp Katharina , Enghardt Tina , Wallich Reinhard , Hälbich Steffi , Mihlan Michael , Schlötzer-Schrehardt Ursula , Zipfel Peter F. , Skerka Christine
Published: June 2009

Homozygous deletion of a 84-kb genomic fragment in human chromosome 1 that encompasses the CFHR1 and CFHR3 genes represents a risk factor for hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) but has a protective effect in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here we identify CFHR1 as a novel inhibitor of the complement pathway that blocks C5 convertase activity and interferes with C5b surface deposition and MAC formation. This activity is distinct from complement factor H, and apparently factor H and CFHR1 control complement activation in a sequential manner. As both proteins bind to the same or similar sites at the cellular surfaces, the gain of CFHR1 activity presumably is at the expense of CFH-mediated function (inhibition of the C3 convertase). In HUS, the absence of CFHR1 may result in reduced inhibition of terminal complex formation and in reduced protection of endothelial cells upon complement attack. These findings provide new insights into complement regulation on the cell surface and biosurfaces and likely define the role of CFHR1 in human diseases.
Correcting for bias in estimation of quantitative trait loci effects
Authors: Weller Joel Ira , Shlezinger Meital , Ron Micha
Published: June 2009

Estimates of quantitative trait loci (QTL) effects derived from complete genome scans are biased, if no assumptions are made about the distribution of QTL effects. Bias should be reduced if estimates are derived by maximum likelihood, with the QTL effects sampled from a known distribution. The parameters of the distributions of QTL effects for nine economic traits in dairy cattle were estimated from a daughter design analysis of the Israeli Holstein population including 490 marker-by-sire contrasts. A separate gamma distribution was derived for each trait. Estimates for both the α and β parameters and their SE decreased as a function of heritability. The maximum likelihood estimates derived for the individual QTL effects using the gamma distributions for each trait were regressed relative to the least squares estimates, but the regression factor decreased as a function of the least squares estimate. On simulated data, the mean of least squares estimates for effects with nominal 1% significance was more than twice the simulated values, while the mean of the maximum likelihood estimates was slightly lower than the mean of the simulated values. The coefficient of determination for the maximum likelihood estimates was five-fold the corresponding value for the least squares estimates.
Oxidative stress augments toll-like receptor 8 mediated neutrophilic responses in healthy subjects
Authors: Yanagisawa Satoru , Koarai Akira , Sugiura Hisatoshi , Ichikawa Tomohiro , Kanda Masae , Tanaka Rie , Akamatsu Keiichiro , Hirano Tsunahiko , Matsunaga Kazuto , Minakata Yoshiaki , Ichinose Masakazu
Published: June 2009

Background

Excessive oxidative stress has been reported to be generated in inflamed tissues and contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory lung diseases, exacerbations of which induced by viral infections are associated with toll-like receptor (TLR) activation. Among these receptors, TLR8 has been reported as a key receptor that recognizes single-strand RNA virus. However, it remains unknown whether TLR8 signaling is potentiated by oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to examine whether oxidative stress modulates TLR8 signaling in vitro.

Methods

Human peripheral blood neutrophils were obtained from healthy non-smokers and stimulated with TLR 7/8 agonist imidazoquinoline resiquimod (R848) in the presence or absence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Neutrophilic responses including cytokine release, superoxide production and chemotaxis were examined, and the signal transduction was also analyzed.

Results

Activation of TLR8, but not TLR7, augmented IL-8 release. The R848-augmented IL-8 release was significantly potentiated by pretreatment with H2O2 (p < 0.01), and N-acetyl-L-cysteine reversed this potentiation. The combination of H2O2 and R848 significantly potentiated NF-kB phosphorylation and IkBα degradation. The H2O2-potentiated IL-8 release was suppressed by MG-132, a proteosome inhibitor, and by dexamethasone. The expressions of TLR8, myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88), and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) were not affected by H2O2.

Conclusion

TLR8-mediated neutrophilic responses were markedly potentiated by oxidative stress, and the potentiation was mediated by enhanced NF-kB activation. These results suggest that oxidative stress might potentiate the neutrophilic inflammation during viral infection.
FuGEFlow: data model and markup language for flow cytometry
Authors: Qian Yu , Tchuvatkina Olga , Spidlen Josef , Wilkinson Peter , Gasparetto Maura , Jones Andrew R , Manion Frank J , Scheuermann Richard H , Sekaly Rafick-Pierre , Brinkman Ryan R
Published: June 2009

Background

Flow cytometry technology is widely used in both health care and research. The rapid expansion of flow cytometry applications has outpaced the development of data storage and analysis tools. Collaborative efforts being taken to eliminate this gap include building common vocabularies and ontologies, designing generic data models, and defining data exchange formats. The Minimum Information about a Flow Cytometry Experiment (MIFlowCyt) standard was recently adopted by the International Society for Advancement of Cytometry. This standard guides researchers on the information that should be included in peer reviewed publications, but it is insufficient for data exchange and integration between computational systems. The Functional Genomics Experiment (FuGE) formalizes common aspects of comprehensive and high throughput experiments across different biological technologies. We have extended FuGE object model to accommodate flow cytometry data and metadata.

Methods

We used the MagicDraw modelling tool to design a UML model (Flow-OM) according to the FuGE extension guidelines and the AndroMDA toolkit to transform the model to a markup language (Flow-ML). We mapped each MIFlowCyt term to either an existing FuGE class or to a new FuGEFlow class. The development environment was validated by comparing the official FuGE XSD to the schema we generated from the FuGE object model using our configuration. After the Flow-OM model was completed, the final version of the Flow-ML was generated and validated against an example MIFlowCyt compliant experiment description.

Results

The extension of FuGE for flow cytometry has resulted in a generic FuGE-compliant data model (FuGEFlow), which accommodates and links together all information required by MIFlowCyt. The FuGEFlow model can be used to build software and databases using FuGE software toolkits to facilitate automated exchange and manipulation of potentially large flow cytometry experimental data sets. Additional project documentation, including reusable design patterns and a guide for setting up a development environment, was contributed back to the FuGE project.

Conclusion

We have shown that an extension of FuGE can be used to transform minimum information requirements in natural language to markup language in XML. Extending FuGE required significant effort, but in our experiences the benefits outweighed the costs. The FuGEFlow is expected to play a central role in describing flow cytometry experiments and ultimately facilitating data exchange including public flow cytometry repositories currently under development.
Automated genome mining for natural products
Authors: Li Michael HT , Ung Peter MU , Zajkowski James , Garneau-Tsodikova Sylvie , Sherman David H
Published: June 2009

Background

Discovery of new medicinal agents from natural sources has largely been an adventitious process based on screening of plant and microbial extracts combined with bioassay-guided identification and natural product structure elucidation. Increasingly rapid and more cost-effective genome sequencing technologies coupled with advanced computational power have converged to transform this trend toward a more rational and predictive pursuit.

Results

We have developed a rapid method of scanning genome sequences for multiple polyketide, nonribosomal peptide, and mixed combination natural products with output in a text format that can be readily converted to two and three dimensional structures using conventional software. Our open-source and web-based program can assemble various small molecules composed of twenty standard amino acids and twenty two other chain-elongation intermediates used in nonribosomal peptide systems, and four acyl-CoA extender units incorporated into polyketides by reading a hidden Markov model of DNA. This process evaluates and selects the substrate specificities along the assembly line of nonribosomal synthetases and modular polyketide synthases.

Conclusion

Using this approach we have predicted the structures of natural products from a diverse range of bacteria based on a limited number of signature sequences. In accelerating direct DNA to metabolomic analysis, this method bridges the interface between chemists and biologists and enables rapid scanning for compounds with potential therapeutic value.