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Kinds of High Degree Selected AbstractsCharacterization of Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone Precursor cDNA in the Old World Mole-Rat Cryptomys Hottentotus Pretoriae: High Degree of Identity with the New World Guinea Pig SequenceJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 5 2005T. Kalamatianos Abstract Regulation of pituitary gonadotrophins by the decapeptide gonadotrophin-releasing hormone 1 (GnRH1) is crucial for the development and maintenance of reproductive functions. A common amino acid sequence for this decapeptide, designated as ,mammalian' GnRH, has been identified in all mammals thus far investigated with the exception of the guinea pig, in which there are two amino acid substitutions. Among hystricognath rodents, the members of the family Bathyergidae regulate reproduction in response to diverse cues. Thus, highveld mole-rats (Cryptomys hottentotus pretoriae) are social bathyergids in which breeding is restricted to a particular season in the dominant female, but continuously suppressed in subordinate colony members. Elucidation of reproductive control in these animals will be facilitated by characterization of their GnRH1 gene. A partial sequence of GnRH1 precursor cDNA was isolated and characterized. Comparative analysis revealed the highest degree of identity (86%) to guinea pig GnRH1 precursor mRNA. Nevertheless, the deduced amino acid sequence of the mole-rat decapeptide is identical to the ,mammalian' sequence rather than that of guinea pigs. Successful detection of GnRH1-synthesizing neurones using either a guinea pig GnRH1 riboprobe or an antibody against the ,mammalian' decapeptide is consistent with the guinea pig-like sequence for the precursor and the classic ,mammalian' form for the decapeptide. The high degree of identity in the GnRH1 precursor sequence between this Old World mole-rat and the New World guinea pig is consistent with the theory that caviomorphs and phiomorphs originated from a common ancestral line in the Palaeocene to mid Eocene, some 63,45 million years ago. [source] Monocrystalline Cd0.2Zn0.8Te solid solution obtained by self-selecting vapour growthCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 9 2010A. Szczerbakow Abstract Cd0.2Zn0.8Te monocrystals with the sizes of about 15 mm have been produced by self-selecting vapour growth (SSVG). High degree of structural perfection of monocrystalline Cd0.2Zn0.8Te was achieved. Excellent compositional uniformity was observed as well. To our knowledge, no comparable results are reported for this solid solution. (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Virtual reality and brain anatomy: a randomised trial of e-learning instructional designsMEDICAL EDUCATION, Issue 5 2007Anthony J Levinson Context, Computer-aided instruction is used increasingly in medical education and anatomy instruction with limited research evidence to guide its design and deployment. Objectives, To determine the effects of (a) learner control over the e-learning environment and (b) key views of the brain versus multiple views in the learning of brain surface anatomy. Design, Randomised trial with 2 phases of study. Participants Volunteer sample of 1st-year psychology students (phase 1, n = 120; phase 2, n = 120). Interventions, Phase 1: computer-based instruction in brain surface anatomy with 4 conditions: (1) learner control/multiple views (LMV); (2) learner control/key views (LKV); (3) programme control/multiple views (PMV); (4) programme control/key views (PKV). Phase 2: 2 conditions: low learner control/key views (PKV) versus no learner control/key views (SKV). All participants performed a pre-test, post-test and test of visuospatial ability. Main outcome measures, A 30-item post-test of brain surface anatomy structure identification. Results The PKV group attained the best post-test score (57.7%) and the PMV group received the worst (42.2%), with the 2 high learner control groups performing in between. For students with low spatial ability, estimated scores are 20% lower for those who saw multiple views during learning. In phase 2, students with the most static condition and no learner control (SKV) performed similarly to those students in the PKV group. Conclusions Multiple views may impede learning, particularly for those with relatively poor spatial ability. High degrees of learner control may reduce effectiveness of learning. [source] Infrared Multiple Photon Dissociation of ChloromethyltrifluorosilanePHOTOCHEMISTRY & PHOTOBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Pavel V. Koshlyakov Infrared multiphoton absorption and dissociation of chloromethyltrifluorosilane molecules under the action of pulsed transversely excited atmospheric pressure CO2 laser were experimentally studied. Dissociation products were analyzed. The dissociation proceeds via chlorine atom transfer from carbon to silicone. High degrees of silicon isotope separation were achieved. The presence of ,-chlorine atom in a silicon organic compound brings about a significant improvement in multiple photon dissociation characteristics and an essential increase in isotopic selectivity. [source] Mixing virtual and real scenes in the site of ancient PompeiiCOMPUTER ANIMATION AND VIRTUAL WORLDS (PREV: JNL OF VISUALISATION & COMPUTER ANIMATION), Issue 1 2005George Papagiannakis Abstract This paper presents an innovative 3D reconstruction of ancient fresco paintings through the real-time revival of their fauna and flora, featuring groups of virtual animated characters with artificial-life dramaturgical behaviours in an immersive, fully mobile augmented reality (AR) environment. The main goal is to push the limits of current AR and virtual storytelling technologies and to explore the processes of mixed narrative design of fictional spaces (e.g. fresco paintings) where visitors can experience a high degree of realistic immersion. Based on a captured/real-time video sequence of the real scene in a video-see-through HMD set-up, these scenes are enhanced by the seamless accurate real-time registration and 3D rendering of realistic complete simulations of virtual flora and fauna (virtual humans and plants) in a real-time storytelling scenario-based environment. Thus the visitor of the ancient site is presented with an immersive and innovative multi-sensory interactive trip to the past. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] User-Controllable Color TransferCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 2 2010Xiaobo An This paper presents an image editing framework where users use reference images to indicate desired color edits. In our approach, users specify pairs of strokes to indicate corresponding regions in both the original and the reference image that should have the same color "style". Within each stroke pair, a nonlinear constrained parametric transfer model is used to transfer the reference colors to the original. We estimate the model parameters by matching color distributions, under constraints that ensure no visual artifacts are present in the transfer result. To perform transfer on the whole image, we employ optimization methods to propagate the model parameters defined at each stroke location to spatially-close regions of similar appearance. This stroke-based formulation requires minimal user effort while retaining the high degree of user control necessary to allow artistic interpretations. We demonstrate our approach by performing color transfer on a number of image pairs varying in content and style, and show that our algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art color transfer methods on both user-controllability and visual qualities of the transfer results. [source] Compression of Human Motion Capture Data Using Motion Pattern IndexingCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 1 2009Qin Gu I.3.7 [Computer Graphics]: Three-Dimensional Graphics and Realism; E.4 [Coding and Information Theory]: Data Compaction and Compression Abstract In this work, a novel scheme is proposed to compress human motion capture data based on hierarchical structure construction and motion pattern indexing. For a given sequence of 3D motion capture data of human body, the 3D markers are first organized into a hierarchy where each node corresponds to a meaningful part of the human body. Then, the motion sequence corresponding to each body part is coded separately. Based on the observation that there is a high degree of spatial and temporal correlation among the 3D marker positions, we strive to identify motion patterns that form a database for each meaningful body part. Thereafter, a sequence of motion capture data can be efficiently represented as a series of motion pattern indices. As a result, higher compression ratio has been achieved when compared with the prior art, especially for long sequences of motion capture data with repetitive motion styles. Another distinction of this work is that it provides means for flexible and intuitive global and local distortion controls. [source] Illustrative Hybrid Visualization and Exploration of Anatomical and Functional Brain DataCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 3 2008W. M. Jainek Abstract Common practice in brain research and brain surgery involves the multi-modal acquisition of brain anatomy and brain activation data. These highly complex three-dimensional data have to be displayed simultaneously in order to convey spatial relationships. Unique challenges in information and interaction design have to be solved in order to keep the visualization sufficiently complete and uncluttered at the same time. The visualization method presented in this paper addresses these issues by using a hybrid combination of polygonal rendering of brain structures and direct volume rendering of activation data. Advanced rendering techniques including illustrative display styles and ambient occlusion calculations enhance the clarity of the visual output. The presented rendering pipeline produces real-time frame rates and offers a high degree of configurability. Newly designed interaction and measurement tools are provided, which enable the user to explore the data at large, but also to inspect specific features closely. We demonstrate the system in the context of a cognitive neurosciences dataset. An initial informal evaluation shows that our visualization method is deemed useful for clinical research. [source] Dynamic Sampling and Rendering of Algebraic Point Set SurfacesCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 2 2008Gaël Guennebaud Abstract Algebraic Point Set Surfaces (APSS) define a smooth surface from a set of points using local moving least-squares (MLS) fitting of algebraic spheres. In this paper we first revisit the spherical fitting problem and provide a new, more generic solution that includes intuitive parameters for curvature control of the fitted spheres. As a second contribution we present a novel real-time rendering system of such surfaces using a dynamic up-sampling strategy combined with a conventional splatting algorithm for high quality rendering. Our approach also includes a new view dependent geometric error tailored to efficient and adaptive up-sampling of the surface. One of the key features of our system is its high degree of flexibility that enables us to achieve high performance even for highly dynamic data or complex models by exploiting temporal coherence at the primitive level. We also address the issue of efficient spatial search data structures with respect to construction, access and GPU friendliness. Finally, we present an efficient parallel GPU implementation of the algorithms and search structures. [source] Layered Performance Animation with Correlation MapsCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 3 2007Michael Neff Abstract Performance has a spontaneity and "aliveness" that can be difficult to capture in more methodical animation processes such as keyframing. Access to performance animation has traditionally been limited to either low degree of freedom characters or required expensive hardware. We present a performance-based animation system for humanoid characters that requires no special hardware, relying only on mouse and keyboard input. We deal with the problem of controlling such a high degree of freedom model with low degree of freedom input through the use of correlation maps which employ 2D mouse input to modify a set of expressively relevant character parameters. Control can be continuously varied by rapidly switching between these maps. We present flexible techniques for varying and combining these maps and a simple process for defining them. The tool is highly configurable, presenting suitable defaults for novices and supporting a high degree of customization and control for experts. Animation can be recorded on a single pass, or multiple layers can be used to increase detail. Results from a user study indicate that novices are able to produce reasonable animations within their first hour of using the system. We also show more complicated results for walking and a standing character that gestures and dances. [source] Numerical Methods to Simulate and Visualize Detailed Crane ActivitiesCOMPUTER-AIDED CIVIL AND INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING, Issue 3 2009Shih-Chung Kang One major consideration for virtual construction is the simulation of the operation of construction equipment for a construction project. This research specifically focuses on developing a mathematical model to support the simulation and visualization of cranes, the most critical equipment in terms of project controls. This model is composed of two submodels,a kinematics model and a dynamic model. The kinematics model is to present the crane components controlled by the operators. The dynamic model is to present the dynamic behavior in suspended system (including the cable and rigging object), which cannot be controlled directly by the operators. To verify the feasibility of these methods, a computer program that simulates and visualizes detailed crane activities was developed. This program supports the real-time visualization of crane activities with high degree of reality accuracy and also, enables the detailed simulation of long-term construction projects. [source] Performance of Sub-Saharan Vertebrates as Indicator Groups for Identifying Priority Areas for ConservationCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2003Joslin L. Moore Often, these sets of important areas, referred to as priority sets, have been identified through use of data on a single taxon (e.g., birds), which is assumed to act as an indicator for all biodiversity. Using a database of the distributions of 3882 vertebrate species in sub-Saharan Africa, we conducted one of very few large-scale tests of this assumption. We used six potential indicator groups,birds, mammals, amphibians, snakes, threatened birds, and threatened mammals,to find priority sets of 200 areas that best represent the species in that group. Priority sets of grid cells designed to maximize representation of a single indicator group captured 83,93% of species in the other groups. This high degree of representation is consistent with observed high levels of overlap in the patterns of distribution of species in different groups. Those species of highest conservation interest were more poorly represented, however, with only 75,88% of other groups' threatened species and 63,76% of other groups' narrow-range species represented in the priority sets. We conclude that existing priority sets based on indicator groups provide a pragmatic basis for the immediate assessment of priorities for conservation at a continental scale. However, complete and efficient representation,especially of narrow-range species,will not be achieved through indicator groups alone. Therefore, priority-setting procedures must remain flexible so that new areas important for other taxa can be incorporated as data become available. Resumen: La meta de la identificación de prioridades globales y continentales de conservación es la identificación de áreas particularmente valiosas para la conservación en las cuales enfocar esfuerzos más detallados. A menudo, estos conjuntos de áreas importantes (referidas como conjuntos prioritarios) han sido identificados utilizando datos de un solo taxón (e. g. aves), el cual se supone que actúa como indicador de toda la biodiversidad. Utilizando una base de datos de la distribución de 3882 especies de vertebrados en África sub-Sahara, realizamos una de las pocas pruebas a gran escala de este supuesto. Utilizamos seis grupos de indicadores potenciales (aves, mamíferos, anfibios, serpientes, aves amenazadas y mamíferos amenazados ) para encontrar conjuntos prioritarios de 200 áreas que mejor representan las especies de ese grupo. Conjuntos prioritarios de celdas matriciales diseñadas para maximizar la representatividad de un grupo indicador capturaron 83,93% de las especies de los otros grupos. Este alto grado de representatividad es consistente con los altos niveles de superposición observados en los patrones de distribución de especies en los diferentes grupos. Sin embargo, las especies de mayor interés para la conservación estaban poco representadas, con solo 75,88% de las especies amenazadas de otros grupos y 63,76% de las especies de distribución restringida de otros grupos representados en los conjuntos prioritarios. Concluimos que los conjuntos prioritarios existentes, basados en grupos indicadores, proporcionan una base pragmática para la evaluación inmediata de las prioridades de conservación a escala continental. Sin embargo, no se logrará la representación completa y eficiente,especialmente de especies de distribución restringida,solo con grupos indicadores. Por lo tanto, los procedimientos de definición de prioridades deben permanecer flexibles para que se puedan incorporar nuevas áreas importantes para otros taxones a medida que se obtienen los datos. [source] Susceptibility and reactivity in polysensitized individuals following controlled inductionCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 1 2010Nannie Bangsgaard Background: It is uncertain whether polysensitized patients acquire multiple allergies only because of a high degree of exposure to environmental allergens, or because of being highly susceptible to developing contact allergy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare susceptibility and reactivity in polysensitized and monosensitized individuals, and in healthy controls. Patients/methods: We sensitized 66 adult individuals (21 polysensitized, 22 monosensitized, and 23 healthy controls) with diphenylcyclopropenone and assessed challenge responses with visual scoring and ultrasound. We compared sensitization rates using a chi-square test and logistic regression analyses, and calculated linear regression lines of the elicitation responses for each individual. The mean values of the slopes and the intercepts for each group were used to measure the strength of the elicitation response, and were compared using the Mann,Whitney test. Results: Sensitization ratio was equal in the three groups: 57% for the polysensitized, 59% for the monosensitized, and 65% for the healthy control group. There was a lowered elicitation threshold in the polysensitized group compared with that in the monosensitized and healthy control groups and, although not statistically significant, a stronger elicitation response was observed in the polysensitized group. Conclusion: Increased reactivity was found in the polysensitized group, demonstrated by a lowered elicitation threshold, compared with that in the monosensitized and healthy control groups. [source] Contact allergy to isoeugenol and its derivatives: problems with allergen substitutionCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 5-6 2004S. Tanaka A total of 2261 (808 male, 1453 female) consecutive patients attending contact dermatitis clinics were patch tested to isoeugenol and its derivatives listed in the EU Inventory of Fragrance Ingredients. Positive reactions were found to isoeugenol in 40, transisoeugenol in 40, isoeugenyl acetate in 19, isoeugenyl benzoate in 4, isoeugenyl phenylacetate in 16, isoeugenyl methyl ether in 6 and benzyl isoeugenyl ether in 2 patients. There was a concomitant reaction to isoeugenol in 36/40 of those positive to transisoeugenol, 13/19 of those to isoeugenyl acetate, 3/4 of those to isoeugenyl benzoate and 15/16 of those to isoeugenyl phenylacetate but in none of those 6 positive to isoeugenyl methyl ether and in neither of those 2 positive to benzyl isoeugenyl ether. Concomitant contact allergy between isoeugenol and its derivatives may occur through chemical cross-reactivity or local skin metabolism of the derivatives. It is more commonly observed with the esters rather than the ethers. Isoeugenyl acetate has been proposed as an alternative to isoeugenol, but there is a high degree of concomitant reactivity with isoeugenol. [source] FS01.3 Disperse (yes), orange (yes), 3 (no): what do we test in textile dye dermatitis?CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 3 2004Christophe J Le Coz Introduction:, Patients sensitized to para-phenylenediamine (PPD) have a high degree of patch test reactivity to Disperse Orange 3 (DO3), and a lesser one to Disperse Red 1 and Red 17. Two successive patients positive to PPD, Disperse Red 1 and 17, negative to DO3 were real eye-openers for our considerations about purity of our current allergen DO3. Materials and methods:, We realized comparative thin-layer chromatography (TLC), with DO3 from Chemotechnique®(DO3-Chem) and Trolab®(both extracted from petrolatum), and "pure" DO3 from two chemical providers. TLC clearly indicated that DO3-Chem was not DO3. HPLC analysis with pure DO3 from Chemotechnique® and comparison of structures by NMR with samples of DO3, revealed that DO3-Chem was Disperse Orange 31 (DO31). In addition, signals through the GERDA network allowed the collection of test materials and observations. Among other members, only 2 used DO3-Chem (from 2 different batches) that was DO31 too, according to TLC Results: According to their data, they observed no or a lower reactivity to DO3 than expected (4 patients DO3-Chem + among 23 PPD+ e.g.). Finally, the error was proved to be due to the provider of the dye to Chemotechnique®, who likely deleted the 1 of Disperse Orange 31 on his packaging. Discussion:, Chemical structure of DO31 indicates a possible in vivo hydrolysis into nitroaniline and a second compound, a substituted PPD derivative that clearly does not frequently react in PPD positive patients. Like drugs, patch tests are submitted to post-commercialization controls. In addition to allergens providers who should enhance their quality controls, dermato-allergologists have to be vigilant, and must active networks when they observe a rare bird. [source] The Difficult Client-Acceptance Decision in Canadian Audit Firms: A Field Investigation,CONTEMPORARY ACCOUNTING RESEARCH, Issue 2 2001Yves Gendron Abstract Auditing is often depicted in scientific and professional literature as being subject to conflicting forces, such as mechanization versus flexibility, and professionalism versus commercialism. This paper examines how auditors actually make the client-acceptance decision in the midst of these forces. The investigation was conducted via a field study at three Big 6 firms located in Canada. The results show that in all firms the client-acceptance decision process in action is largely flexible, being characterized by a high degree of informal communication and the adaptation of the client-acceptance written policies and decision aids to circumstances. Furthermore, while commercialism in one firm (A) has a significant influence on the decision process, in the two other firms (B and C) the decision process is mostly consistent with professionalism. This result conflicts with the concerns that North American regulators have recently expressed about auditors' professionalism. [source] Corporate Governance and Financial Distress: evidence from TaiwanCORPORATE GOVERNANCE, Issue 3 2004Tsun-Siou Lee Prior empirical evidence supports the wealth expropriation hypothesis that weak corporate governance induced by certain types of ownership structures and board composition tends to result in minority interest expropriation. This in turn reduces corporate value. However, it is still unclear whether corporate financial distress is related to these corporate governance characteristics. To answer this question, we adopt three variables to proxy for corporate governance risk, namely, the percentage of directors occupied by the controlling shareholder, the percentage the controlling shareholders shareholding pledged for bank loans (pledge ratio), and the deviation in control away from the cash flow rights. Binary logistic regressions are then fitted to generate dichotomous prediction models. Taiwanese listed firms, characterised by a high degree of ownership concentration, similar to that in most countries, are used as our empirical samples. The evidence suggests that the three variables mentioned above are positively related to the risk for financial distress in the following year. Generally speaking, firms with weak corporate governance are vulnerable to economic downturns and the probability of falling into financial distress increases. [source] A systematic review of structured group interventions with mentally disordered offendersCRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH, Issue 4 2006Edward A.S. Duncan Background,Over the last 15 years, rehabilitation of offenders has been rigorously researched, resulting in new knowledge and understanding about factors decreasing recidivism amongst them. Typically, such interventions have been based on cognitive behavioural therapy. However, until recently, little research had been carried out on the rehabilitation of offenders with mental disorder. The authors present the first systematic review of the efficacy of structured group interventions with mentally disordered offenders. Aim,To evaluate structured group interventions with mentally disordered offenders through systematic review of the evidence for their efficacy and effectiveness. Methods,A standardized search strategy, with complementary methods of data retrieval to ensure a high degree of recall, was employed. Meta-analysis was not undertaken due to sample heterogeneity and lack of comparable data. Instead, effect sizes were calculated on all papers with sufficient data. Pooled effect sizes were calculated for groups of interventions with a similar focus. Results,Twenty studies were retrieved that fitted the inclusion criteria. It was possible to categorize these, predominantly British, studies into four main themes: problem-solving; anger/aggression management; self-harm; and other. The mean pooled effect sizes for the first two groups were suggestive of a moderate to high effect, but methodological variation means that these findings should still be treated as preliminary. Discussion and conclusions,Calculated effect sizes give optimism for the efficacy of structured group interventions with mentally disordered offenders. It is important now that more rigorous and consistent research methods be applied, even in secure hospital environments. Some suggestions towards achieving this are offered, drawing from the work to date, inclusive of the need for agreement on common outcome measures and development of networks to improve sample sizes. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] One-year prevalence of subthreshold and threshold DSM-IV generalized anxiety disorder in a nationally representative sampleDEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 2 2001Robin M. Carter B.A. Abstract Several studies of representative populations have reported prevalence rates of DSM-III and DSM-III-R generalized anxiety disorder (GAD); however, no community study has examined the effect of the stricter DSM-IV criteria on prevalence estimates and patterns of comorbidity. Furthermore, past studies based on "lifetime" symptom assessments might have led to upper-bound 1-year and point prevalence estimates. Data is presented from a national representative sample study of 4,181 adults in Germany, 18,65 years old, who were interviewed for DSM-IV disorders with the 12-month version of the Munich-Composite International Diagnostic Interview. The prevalence rate of strictly defined, 12-month threshold DSM-IV GAD was estimated to be 1.5%; however, 3.6% of respondents presented with at least subthreshold syndromes of GAD during the past 12 months. Higher rates of worrying and GAD were found in women (worrying 10%, GAD 2.7%) and in older respondents (worrying 9.3%, TAD 2.2%). Taking into account a wider scope of diagnoses than previous studies, a high degree of comorbidity in GAD cases was confirmed: 59.1% of all 12-month GAD cases fulfilled criteria for major depression, and 55.9% fulfilled criteria for any other anxiety disorder. In conclusion, prevalence and comorbidity rates found for DSM-IV GAD are not substantially different from rates reported for DSM-III-R GAD. The minor differences in our findings compared to previous reports are more likely attributable to differences in study methodology rather than changes in diagnostic criteria for DSM-IV. Depression and Anxiety 13:78,88, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Long-Term Efficacy of Subcutaneous Sweat Gland Suction Curettage for Axillary Hyperhidrosis: A Prospective Gravimetrically Controlled StudyDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2008STEPHANIE DARABANEANU PHD BACKGROUND Subcutaneous sweat gland suction curettage (SSGSC) is gaining acceptance as a therapy for axillary hyperhidrosis. Despite its acceptance, there remains a lack of prospective data describing the efficacy and long-term outcome of SSGSC. OBJECTIVE We examined the sweat rates and patients' satisfaction of 12 months following SGSC in 28 patients with axillary hyperhidrosis. METHODS Axillary sweat rates were determined by semiquantitative gravimetry. A questionnaire was used to determine patients' satisfaction. RESULTS A 58% reduction in sweat rate under resting conditions and an 85% reduction during aerobic exercise in sweat rates was observed. A subdivision of patients into three groups based on their baseline preoperative sweat rates (<25, 25,50, and >50 mg/min) showed that patients with resting sweat rates over 25 mg/min benefited particularly from this procedure, whereas patients with less than 25 mg/min did not. CONCLUSION SSGSC produces a significant reduction in the preoperative sweat rates. A low complication rate and a high degree of patient satisfaction were observed. Long-term follow-up evaluations demonstrate a low number of relapses, making SSGSC a convenient and satisfactory method of treating axillary hyperhidrosis. It should be considered in patients refractory to conventional therapies with baseline sweat rates greater than 25 mg/min. [source] Telepathology as an Aid in Mohs Micrographic SurgeryDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2004Suresh Chandra MB Background. Mohs surgeons are occasionally confronted by challenging pathology ideally requiring the advice of a dermatopathologist. The Internet transmission of digital images of the pathology (telepathology) allows for such opinions to be easily and rapidly obtained. Objective. The objective was to obtain images utilizing a digital camera focused directly through one microscope eyepiece with subsequent e-mail to a pathologist for an immediate opinion. Methods. The particular area of interest on the slide is selected. The lens of the digital camera is placed directly on one eyepiece of the microscope and using the zoom and autofocus options of the camera a sharp image is obtained. The camera flash must be disabled. The images are immediately downloaded to computer and e-mailed to the pathologist for an opinion. Results. Three case reports illustrate that the pathologist is able to offer suggestions on a diagnosis with a high degree of confidence using the e-mailed images. Conclusion. Digital camera technology now allows for images to be taken directly through an eyepiece of the microscope. These images can be almost instantaneously e-mailed to a pathologist anywhere in the world for an immediate opinion. The technique provides for greater surety where doubt exists about the pathology during Mohs surgery. [source] Comparative and developmental study of the immune system in XenopusDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 6 2009Jacques Robert Abstract Xenopus laevis is the model of choice for evolutionary, comparative, and developmental studies of immunity, and invaluable research tools including MHC-defined clones, inbred strains, cell lines, and monoclonal antibodies are available for these studies. Recent efforts to use Silurana (Xenopus) tropicalis for genetic analyses have led to the sequencing of the whole genome. Ongoing genome mapping and mutagenesis studies will provide a new dimension to the study of immunity. Here we review what is known about the immune system of X. laevis integrated with available genomic information from S. tropicalis. This review provides compelling evidence for the high degree of similarity and evolutionary conservation between Xenopus and mammalian immune systems. We propose to build a powerful and innovative comparative biomedical model based on modern genetic technologies that takes take advantage of X. laevis and S. tropicalis, as well as the whole Xenopus genus. Developmental Dynamics 238:1249,1270, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Visual experience and age affect synaptic organization in the mushroom bodies of the desert ant Cataglyphis fortisDEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2010Sara Mae Stieb Abstract Desert ants of the genus Cataglyphis undergo an age-related polyethism from interior workers involved in brood care and food processing to short-lived outdoor foragers with remarkable visual navigation capabilities. The quick transition from dark to light suggests that visual centers in the ant's brain express a high degree of plasticity. To investigate structural synaptic plasticity in the mushroom bodies (MBs),sensory integration centers supposed to be involved in learning and memory,we immunolabeled and quantified pre- and postsynaptic profiles of synaptic complexes (microglomeruli, MG) in the visual (collar) and olfactory (lip) input regions of the MB calyx. The results show that a volume increase of the MB calyx during behavioral transition is associated with a decrease in MG numbers in the collar and, less pronounced, in the lip. Analysis of tubulin-positive profiles indicates that presynaptic pruning of projection neurons and dendritic expansion in intrinsic Kenyon cells are involved. Light-exposure of dark-reared ants of different age classes revealed similar effects. The results indicate that this structural synaptic plasticity in the MB calyx is primarily driven by visual experience rather than by an internal program. This is supported by the fact that dark-reared ants age-matched to foragers had MG numbers comparable to those of interior workers. Ants aged artificially for up to 1 year expressed a similar plasticity. These results suggest that the high degree of neuronal plasticity in visual input regions of the MB calyx may be an important factor related to behavior transitions associated with division of labor. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 70: 408,423, 2010 [source] Assessing diabetic control , reliability of methods available in resource poor settingsDIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 3 2002A. P. Rotchford Abstract Aims and methods To examine the reliability of random venous or capillary blood glucose testing, random urine glucose testing, and a current symptom history in predicting a high HbA1c in Type 2 diabetic patients taking oral hypoglycaemic agents in a poorly controlled rural African population. Results For a cut-off point for HbA1c of , 8%, for random venous plasma glucose of , 14 mmol/L (present in 47.2% of subjects), specificity was 97.1% (95% CI 85.1,99.9), sensitivity 56.8% (48.8,64.5) and positive predictive value (PPV) 98.9% (94.2,99.9). HbA1c, 8% is predicted by a random capillary blood glucose of 17 mmol/L (present in 28.4% of subjects) with specificity 100% (90.0,100.0), PPV 100% (93.7,100.0) and sensitivity of 34.3% (27.2,42.1). HbA1c, 8% is predicted by the presence of heavy glycosuria (, 55 mmol/L) (present in 35.6%) with specificity 94.1% (80.3,99.3), sensitivity of 41.9% (34.1,49.9) and PPV 97.1% (89.9,99.6). Polyuria/nocturia (present in 31.3%) was the only symptom found to be associated with poor control, with a specificity for predicting HbA1c of , 8% of 81.5% (61.9,93.7), PPV 89.1% (76.4,96.4) and sensitivity 30.6% (22.9,39.1). Conclusions Where resources are short, random glucose testing can be used to detect a significant proportion of those with the worst control with a high degree of specificity enabling primary care staff to modify treatment safely. Where facilities are limited capillary blood or urine testing with reagent strips, may be substituted for venous plasma testing in the laboratory. A symptom history was insufficient to replace biochemical testing, but where this is unavailable, urinary symptoms may be helpful. Diabet. Med. 19, 195,200 (2002) [source] Cytologic diagnosis of osseous lesions: A review with emphasis on the diagnosis of primary neoplasms of boneDIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Lester J. Layfield M.D. Abstract Fine-needle aspiration has been utilized as the initial diagnostic technique at a large number of body sites for over three quarters of a century. As early as the 1930s, fine-needle aspiration (FNA) was used to investigate lesions of the musculoskeletal system. In many early reports, FNA was most frequently and successfully used for the diagnosis of metastatic disease to bone. Less emphasis was placed on its utility for the investigation of primary neoplasms of bone and soft tissue. Current utilization of FNA continues to de-emphasize its application to the diagnosis of primary lesions of the musculoskeletal system. Recent advances in imaging techniques, immunohistochemistry, and molecular diagnostics along with an increasing familiarity among pathologists with the cytologic appearance of primary osseous tumors has led to reevaluation of the technique for investigation of these tumors. The diagnostic accuracy of FNA along with its relatively low cost and high degree of safety makes it a desirable technique for the investigation of primary lesions of the musculoskeletal system. This article reviews issues of diagnostic accuracy, optimal practice procedures, and benefits of the technique including cost reduction. The article will review criteria for selection of appropriate tissue targets for FNA to reduce the number of unsatisfactory specimens. Cytomorphologic features of the more common primary neoplasms of bone will be summarized along with recommendations for the utilization of immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnostics in the work-up of primary neoplasms of bone. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Role of cytology in the diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus and associated neoplasiaDIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2003Reda S. Saad M.D. Abstract We studied 327 consecutive paired esophageal biopsies and brushing specimens obtained during the same endoscopic session to evaluate the role of cytology for the diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus (BE) and/or surveillance for associated dysplasia. A diagnosis of BE was based on the cytologic presence of goblet cells. Cases were reviewed and categorized into: 1) benign esophageal lesions (125 cases), with 48 cases of Candida (32 cases diagnosed by both techniques and 16 diagnosed only by cytology), 3 cases of herpes simplex with only 1 case diagnosed by cytology, and 74 cases of inflammation and/or repair; 2) benign BE (141 cases), with 74 cases (52%) diagnosed by both techniques, 11 cases by cytology only (8%), and 56 cases (40%) by histology only; 3) low-grade dysplasia (LGD, 30 cases), with 5 cases (17%) diagnosed with both specimens, one case (3%) by cytology only, and 24 cases (80%) by histology only; 4) high-grade dysplasia (HGD, 10 cases), with 8 cases (80%) diagnosed with both specimens, 1 case (10%) by cytology, and 1 case (10%) by histology; and 5) carcinomas (23 cases), with 20 cases (87%) diagnosed with both specimens, 2 cases (9%) by cytology only, and 1 case (4%) by histology only. Our results support the high degree of diagnostic accuracy of cytology for the diagnosis of Barrett's-associated HGD and/or carcinoma, and moderate sensitivity for BE. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;29:130,135. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Outcomes of surgical treatment of intrathoracic stomachDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 3 2009F. Yano SUMMARY The purpose of this study is to assess the long-term outcomes after surgical repair of intrathoracic stomach. Prospectively collected data was retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent a phone questionnaire 1 year postoperatively to assess gastroesophageal reflux disease-related symptoms and surgical satisfaction. In addition, objective evaluation for integrity of hiatal hernia repair was undertaken either by esophagram or endoscopy. Any recurrence was considered a failure. Forty-one patients underwent surgical repair of a large paraesophageal hernia with intrathoracic stomach during the study period. Thirty-four patients underwent a laparoscopic repair, and seven patients underwent a transthoracic repair. An antireflux procedure was performed on 28 patients, and 13 patients had only hernia reduction and hiatal closure. In the laparoscopic group, two patients required conversion to open laparotomy, as one was unable to tolerate the pneumoperitoneum, and the other had mediastinal bleeding. Thirty-eight (93%) were available for 1-year follow-up. There were three (7.8%) recurrences, one requiring emergency transabdominal repair, and the other two being asymptomatic 1-cm recurrences. All patients report a high degree of satisfaction with surgery. There is a high incidence of short esophagus in patients with intrathoracic stomach. The surgical repair is safe and durable, with high patient satisfaction at 1-year follow-up. [source] Comparing agglomerative clustering and three weed classification frameworks to assess the invasiveness of alien species across spatial scalesDIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS, Issue 6 2006Roger A. Lawes ABSTRACT To prioritize weed management at the catchment scale, information is required on the species present, their relatively frequency, abundance, and likely spread and impact. The objective of this study was to classify the invasiveness of alien species that have invaded the Upper Burdekin Catchment in Queensland, Australia, at three spatial scales. A combination of three published weed classification frameworks and multivariate techniques were employed to classify species based on their frequency and cover at a range of spatial scales. We surveyed the Upper Burdekin Catchment for alien species, and for each species determined the following distribution indices , site frequency, total cover, transect frequency per site frequency and quadrat frequency per site frequency, cover per quadrat when present, cover per transect when present, and cover per site when present. These indices capture the effect of species abundance and frequency between sites (site frequency and total cover), within sites (transect frequency per site and cover per transect when present), and within transects (quadrat frequency per site frequency and cover per site). They were used to classify the species into seven groups using a hierarchical cluster analysis. The relationship between the indices was explored to determine how effective the small scale, site-specific indices were at predicting the broader, landscape-scale patterns. Strong correlations were observed between transect frequency per site and frequency (r2 = 0.89) and cover per transect when present and total cover (r2 = 0.62). This suggests that if a weed is abundant at the site level, it has the potential to occupy large areas of the catchment. The species groupings derived from the application of the three published weed classification frameworks were compared graphically to the groupings derived from the cluster analysis. One of the frameworks classified species into three groups. The other two frameworks classified species into four groups. There was a high degree of subjectivity in applying the frameworks to the survey data. Some of the data were of no relevance to the classification frameworks and were therefore ignored. We suggest that the weed classification frameworks should be used in conjunction with existing multivariate techniques to ensure that classifications capture important natural variations in observed data that may reflect invasion processes. The combined use of the frameworks and multivariate techniques enabled us to aggregate species into categories appropriate for management. [source] The ultrastructure of the spermatozoa of Boa constrictor occidentalis, with considerations on its mating system and sperm competition theoriesACTA ZOOLOGICA, Issue 1 2006M. Tourmente Abstract Sperm ultrastructure has been described for several families of Squamata in which it has been considered a valuable character source for phylogenetic studies. However, sperm competition and mating systems have been demonstrated to influence variations in the sperm morphology and dynamics. The mating system of Boa constrictor occidentalis is likely to have a high degree of sperm competition. We investigated, for the first time, the ultrastructure of the spermatozoa of B. c. occidentalis and, thus, of the family Boidae. Active mating groups were captured from the field, and the spermatozoa of the males was collected by ejaculation and processed to obtain transmission electron micrographs and fluorescence micrographs. The spermatozoa are filiform and their morphology fits the general model described for snakes, and several synapomorphies belonging to the squamates can be identified in these cells. Nevertheless, the head is 25% longer and the midpiece presents a lower frequency of mitochondrial transformations than that of other snakes. We propose that this last trait, along with the extraordinary elongation of the midpiece and the system of multilaminar membranes covering this section (both synapomorphies of the snake spermatozoa), are adaptive responses to processes of sperm competition and sperm storage. [source] An experimental study on the ripple,dune transitionEARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 6 2001André Robert Abstract Flume experiments were conducted on different bed stages across the ripple,dune transition. As flow velocity increases, an initially flat bed surface (made of fairly uniform sandy material) is gradually transformed into a two-dimensional rippled bed. With further increase in velocity, two-dimensional ripples are replaced by irregular, linguoid ripples. As the average velocity necessary for the ripple,dune transition to occur is imposed on the bed surface, these non-equilibrium linguoid ripples are further transformed into larger, two-dimensional dunes. For each of these stages across the transition, a concrete mould of the bed was created and the flow structure above each fixed bed surface investigated. An acoustic Doppler velocimeter was used to study the flow characteristics above each bed surface. Detailed profiles were used along a transect located in the middle of the channel. Results are presented in the form of spatially averaged profiles of various flow characteristics and of contour maps of flow fields (section view). They clearly illustrate some important distinctions in the flow structure above the different bedform types associated with different stages during the transition. Turbulence intensity and Reynolds stresses gradually increase throughout the transition. Two-dimensional ripples present a fairly uniform spatial distribution of turbulent flow characteristics above the bed. Linguoid ripples induce three-dimensional turbulence structure at greater heights above the bed surface and turbulence intensity tends to increase steadily with height above bed surface in the wake region. A very significant increase in turbulence intensity and momentum exchange occurs during the transition from linguoid ripples to dunes. The turbulent flow field properties above dunes are highly dependent on the position along and above the bed surface and these fields present a very high degree of spatial variability (when compared with the rippled beds). Further investigations under natural conditions emphasizing sediment transport mechanisms and rates during the transition should represent the next step of analysis, together with an emphasis on quadrant analysis. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||