bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Types of rape victimization
Authors: Novakovic Milan
Published: November 2007

Introduction: Behavior of rape victims is an enigma associated with the following phenomena: poverty, transition, legal weaknesses, and unintegrated mental health network. The aim of the study was to investigate rape victimization in relation to anomie, stress and postwar transition-related weaknesses in B&H in the period 1996-2005; and perform a personal analysis of rape victims. Material and methods: The experimental group consisted of rape victims receiving psychiatric treatment: non-violent victimization (n=125). It included random female victims with mental diseases: victimization by abuse of power and unclear victimization. The control group consisted of violent victimization victims (n=125, females). This was a multicentric, longitudinal, prospective study. Intercorrelation, univariate and canonical discrimination analyses were performed. Results Rape offenders were of male gender (c2 = 29.970) statistical significance p<0.001), from broken families was (c2 = 0.830), migration (c2 = 0.064), and heredity (c2 = 0.406). Victimization was classified as non-violent, social, unclear and violent. Non-violent victimization occurred in 19.03% (2001) to 24.46% (2004). Abuse of mental patients was recorded in 16.08% (2002) and 22.61% (2000), and abuse of power in 2.12% (2000) and 3.55% (2000), whereas unclear rape occurred in 0.88% (2004) and 1.74% (2002). We have found that patients from the primary group are significantly more anxious and depressed in total score and in individual items. Conclusion: Non-violent victimization was committed by persons with impaired intelligence, acute psychotic crisis, and substance abuse. Social victimization and criminally unclear rapes were of transitional character. Victimization was caused by (post)war anomy, poverty, stress and violence. It is given insufficient significance because of high prevalence and "dark number" of victims. The study emphasizes the role of psychiatry as well as weakness of the system in the deinstitutionalization. .
The role of interferon in the treatment of acute hepatitis C
Authors: Simonovic-Babic Jasmina , Delic Dragan , Svirtlih Neda
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Progression from acute to chronic HCV infection occurs in 50% to 84% of cases. Even the latest approach - combination therapy with pegilated interferon alfa 2-a or 2b and ribavirin - eliminates the virus in only 54% to 56% of cases with chronic infection. The aim of this study is to determine whether treatment during the acute phase prevents the development of chronic infection. Material and methods. Between 2001 and 2004, 27 patients with the diagnosis of acute hepatitis C were treated at the hepatology Department of Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases. Among them, 19 were treated with recombinant interferon alfa 2-a. Acute hepatitis C was defined by clinical and laboratory test results and by exclusion of other causes of acute liver disease. Results. The mean age of our patients was 32.7 years, whereas the mean incubation time was 61.7 days. The mean serum amino- transferase levels were 1119 U/l and the mean total bilirubin levels were 106 mmol/l. At the end of therapy, 81.8% of patients had undetectable levels of HCV RNA, but 94.7% of patients had normal serum alanine aminotransferase levels. At the end of follow up, 84.6% of patients had normal alanine aminotransferase levels and 83.3% of patients had undetectable levels of HCV RNA. One patient had undetectable antibody to HCV at the end of follow-up. Conclusion. The results reported here demonstrate that in the acute phase of HCV infection, interferon treatment is associated with a high rate of virological and biochemical response. We concluded that early treatment of acute hepatitis C may prevent chronic hepatitis C. .
Multiple organ procurement
Authors: Vukovic Milivoje , Moljevic Nebojsa , Milosevic Zoran , Katanic Nenad , Krivokuca Dragan
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Liver transplantation is the most demanding of all solid organ transplantations. It requires perfect organization and motivation of health care professionals, patients and their families. This article deals with the procedure for multiple organ procurement, reviews criteria for organ donation and describes the surgical technique for multiple organ procurement. Discussion. Adequate selection and evaluation of cadaveric donors and of organs for transplantation should include early identification of potential donors, and early diagnosis of brain death. The procurement of the highest number of viable organs for transplantation requires excellence in each of the phases. Early and aggressive physiologic support in the maintenance of potential donors can reduce organ donor loss due to irreversible asystole or multiorgan failure (it is almost always possible to maintain organ perfusion pressure) and increase the number of organs without increasing post-transplant morbidity or mortality. The ideal donor is a young, previously healthy, brain dead, victim of an accident. Conclusion. The surgical procedure for multiple organ procurement from brain death donors must be performed without intraopertive organ damage. .
Pathogenic mechanisms in the development of surgical site infections
Authors: Jovanovic Zorica , Ilic Milena , Jankovic Slobodan
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Surgical site infections represent a major problem in modern medicine. Bacterial survival and growth in surgical wounds depends on the effectiveness of the host defense mechanisms and on the ability of bacteria to resist these defensive mechanisms. Surgical site contamination causes cellular injury and triggers the inflammatory response. Host response to infection. An acute inflammatory response occurs within seconds to minutes of injury or invasion; it is non-specific and self-limiting. Mast cell degranulation, activation of three plasma systems and release of subcellular components from damaged cells occur as a consequence of cellular injury. Inflammation is mediated by a variety of soluble factors, including the complement system, the clotting system and the kinin system. The cell-derived mediators include histamine and serotonin, platelet activating factor, arachidonic acid metabolites (prostaglandins, leukotrienes, lipoxins), nitric oxide, and cytokines (regulators of host responses to infection, inflammation and immune responses). The main role of an inflammatory reaction is to recruit various cells and plasma components to the surgical site. Neutrophils are the first immune cells recruited at the site infection. Intracellular killing of microbes by neutrophils is accomplished through several mechanisms, including lysosomal enzymes and oxygen-dependent mechanisms. Later, local and blood-borne macrophages also migrate to the surgical site, initiate phagocytosis, and present antigens to T-lymphocytes in a recognizable form. Sepsis is a common systemic complication of infection. Septic shock is associated with severe infection and release of inflammatory mediators into the systemic circulation. The lipopolysaccharide from gram-negative bacteria contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of septic shock. The most common clinical manifestations of sepsis include fever or hypothermia, tachycardia, tachypnea, altered blood pressure, either leukocytosis or leukopenia, and change in mental status. Conclusion. The host response to microbial infection, also known as acute phase response, includes changes of local and systemic functions. Loss of local control or an overly activated response results in a systemic response which is clinically identified as a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). .
Influenza: A current medical problem
Authors: Bojic Ivanko , Dulovic Olga , Gvozdenovic Eleonora , Minic Svetlana
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Acute respiratory infections are the most common infections in the human population. Among them, virus infections, especially those caused by influenza viruses, have an important place. Type A influenza. Type A influenza virus caused three epidemics during the last century. A high percetage of deceased in pandemics of 1918, and 1919 were young, healthy persons, with many of the deaths due to an unusually severe, hemorrhagic pneumonia. At the end of 2003, and the beginning of 2004, an epidemic emerged in South East Asia of poultry influenza caused by animal (avian) virus. Later it spread to the human population, with a high death rate of 73% and with a possibility of interhuman transmission. This review article provides an overview of the clinical manifestations, laboratory findings and chest radiographs. Apart from the symptomatic and supportive therapy, there are antiviral drugs and corticosteriods. Conclusion. The use of vaccine containing subtypes of virus hemagglutinins and neuraminidase from an influenza virus currently infecting the population has a great importance. .
The use of peritoneal dialysis in newborns
Authors: Stojanovic Vesna , Bregun-Doronjski Aleksandra , Dobanovacki Dusanka , Marinkovic Smiljana , Kovacevic Branka , Spasojevic Slobodan
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Acute renal failure is a common complication in critically ill newborn infants. The therapy of acute renal failure is conservative and etiological. Patients not responding to this kind of therapy require peritoneal dialysis. Material and methods. This retrospective study included 6 newborn infants undergoing peritoneal dialysis during the period from January 2004 to June 2006, at the Nephrology Department of the Institute of Child and Youth Health Care in Novi Sad. All patients presented with complications of acute renal failure including hypercalemia and uremic encephalopathy. Results. Complete restoration of kidney function was evident in four patients on peritoneal dialysis. Three patients are still alive, but in one patient acute renal failure progressed to chronic renal failure. One patient died in the third month of life due to multiple organ dysfunction, after just two days of dialysis. Several complications were reported: intra-abdominal hemorrhage, dialysate leakage, peritonitis and dialysis catheter obstruction. Discussion. Periotoneal dialysis catheter placement is a great problem due to the size of the newborn. If it is estimated that it will be a long-lasting dialysis, Tenckhoff catheter is recommended. In very low birth weight newborn infants, in poor overall condition, general anesthesia is too risky, and acute peritoneal dialysis catheter should be placed (i.v. cannula, venous catheter). Conclusion. Peritoneal dialysis is the method of choice in newborns with acute renal failure, and it is used in the treatment of neonatal asphyxia till the restoration of kidney function is achieved. .
Attitudes of psychiatry residents toward mental illness
Authors: Pejovic-Milovancevic Milica , Lecic-Tosevski Dusica , Tenjovic Lazar , Draganic-Gajic Saveta , Christodoulou George , Stepanovic Jelena
Published: November 2007

Introduction. Attitudes of lay people and physicians towards mentally ill patients are frequently highly biased. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in attitudes of psychiatry and internal medicine residents toward mental illness and to establish the relationship between their attitudes and their personal characteristics. Material and methods. The sample consisted of 45 psychiatry and 36 internal medicine residents. The attitudes toward mental illness were assessed using Opinions about Mental Illness Questionnaire (OMI) and personality traits were examined using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). Results. Our findings showed that in regard to internal medicine residents, psychiatry residents do not consider mentally ill patients to be inferior and dangerous. Psychiatry residents have a benevolent attitude toward the mentally ill. Personality traits of psychiatry residents were not related to their opinions about mental illness. Discussion. The results suggest that there is a need to develop strategies that would bring about changes in the curriculum of training programs for medical residents, including proper training in mental health issues. Such strategies should help in destigmatization of persons with mental disorders and increase the competence of physicians to deal with mentally ill. .
Effect of mechanical activation on the sintering of transition nanoscaled alumina
Authors: Bossert J. , Fidancevska E.
Published: November 2007

Consolidation of transition nanoscaled alumina (?, ?, ?, and ?-phase) at P=500 MPa and T=1500?C, gave compacts with density of 70%TD and a vermicular structure. After mechanical activation by attriting, the transformation rate of ?-Al2O3? ?-Al2O3 ? ?-Al2O3 ? ?-Al2O3 was reduced from 1126 to 1079oC. The density of the sintered compacts at 1500oC was 96%TD. The ?-Al2O3 microstructure exhibited a grain size distribution from 100 to 900 nm.
Reaction sintering of the 2ZnO-TiO2 system
Authors: Obradovic N. , Labus N. , Sreckovic T. , Stevanovic S.
Published: November 2007

Sintering kinetics of the mechanically activated ZnO-TiO2 system was studied. Mixtures of ZnO and TiO2 powders were mechanically activated using a high-energy ball mill for different time intervals from 0 to 300 minutes. Formal phenomenological analyses were performed in order to describe the specimen?s behavior during isothermal sintering at 1100oC. Non-isothermal sintering was investigated by dilatometer measurements up to 1100oC with a constant heating rate. The Dorn method was applied in order to give information on the activation energy. .
Investigation of photoconductivity in n-type Galium doped PbTe
Authors: Stojanovic D. , Romcevic N. , Trajic J. , Hadzic B. , Romcevic M. , Khokhlov D.R.
Published: November 2007

Persistent photoconductivity at low temperature in PbTe + 0.4 at.% Ga has been investigated using kinetic equations which describe the transport process on DX-like impurity centers. Measured and calculated photoconductivity as a function of illumination and temperature is presented. Experimental results are interpreted assuming the mixed valence of Ga in lead telluride and the formation of centers with negative correlation energy. Numeric values of the mathematical model constant at steady state are calculated by comparing the measured and calculated temperature dependence of the resistivity and carrier concentrations for illuminated and unilluminated n-type samples. Thus, the positions and concentrations of different impurity states are determined. .
Renewable energy projects in Croatia: Present situation and future activities
Authors: Granic Goran , Prebeg Filip
Published: November 2007

Renewable energy sources should play an important role in the promotion of numerous Croatian energy goals. The development of a successful sector of renewable could in the long run contribute to energy efficiency improvement, diversification of production and supply safety, domestic production and lesser imports of energy sources and significant reduction of the environmental influences. Targets and strategy of the implementation for every renewable energy resource depends on the specifics of the particular one, with general trends in the European Union of renewable resource ratio increase in the energy balance.
Wind energy development as a part of Poland’s industrial development
Authors: Stoerring Dagmara , Hvelplund Frede
Published: November 2007

Poland as an European Union (EU) member state has to increase its share of renewable energy (RE) in gross domestic energy consumption from 2.4% in 2003 to 12% in 2010. This paper discusses perspectives for wind energy development in Poland as a part of the industrial development given the political system supports RE. It shows that the fulfillment of the EU?s RE obligations could be used to the advantage of Poland?s sustainable development. Wind energy development may create a new industry that involves spare capacity of traditional Polish industries and generates new work places. This may help to overcome Poland?s main macro-economical problems: high unemployment and budget deficit. This paper concludes with recommendations on how to make wind energy development a part of the industrial development in Poland by introducing RE support mechanisms to improve the conditions for companies to develop wind technology in Poland. .
An environmental LCA of alternative scenarios of urban sewage sludge treatment and disposal
Authors: Tarantini Mario , Buttol Patrizia , Maiorino Lorenzo
Published: November 2007

The majority of pollutants that affect wastewater are concentrated by treatment processes in sludge; it is therefore critical to have a suitable evaluation methodology of sludge management options to analyze if pollution is redirected from water to other media, such as air and soil. Life cycle assessment is one of the most widely known and internationally accepted methodologies to compare environmental impacts of processes and systems and to evaluate their sustainability in the entire life cycle. In this study the methodology was applied to assess and compare three scenarios of urban sewage sludge treatment and disposal: sludge anaerobic digestion followed by dedicated incineration, sludge incineration without previous digestion, and sludge anaerobic digestion followed by composting. The potential benefits of spreading the compost to soil were not included in the system boundaries even if, due to its nutrients contents and soil improving features, compost could partially replace the use of commercial products. The study was aimed at finding out the environmental critical points of the treatment alternatives selected and at providing a technical and scientific contribution for further debates with national and local authorities on the environmental optimization of sewage sludge management. Life cycle assessment results confirmed the major contribution of electricity and methane consumption on several environmental impact categories. Incineration contributes more than sludge composting to almost all categories, although the heavy metals content of urban wastewater sludge raises substantial concerns when composted sludge is spread to soil. In this paper the models adopted, the hypotheses assumed and the main findings of the study are presented and discussed. .
Technical and economic aspects of waste heat utilization
Authors: Smolen Slavomir , Budnik-Rodz Marzena
Published: November 2007

The main aim of the following presentation is the comparison and evaluation of the conditions for waste heat utilization in Germany and in Poland. This paper presents synthetically the results of economic analysis of the different technical variants. The employment of heat pumps and other heat transformers, respectively, can reduce the energy consumption, but using of those technical possibilities depends mainly on the economic aspects. The main parameters of the financial calculations were the energy and equipment costs but beyond it a number of other factors were also considered and compared, for example calculation interests, profit tax level and similar. Four different technical alternatives were analyzed, it is using of absorption heat pump, compression heat pump, heat transformer (absorption), and a special combined system with gas motor to drive of heat pump compressor. The capital value as main result of the investigations is in Poland generally lower because of relatively high investment cost and lower energy prices compared to the situation in Germany and West Europe. The basis for the presented comparative analysis was an industrial project in Germany which effected in development of concepts for waste heat using. .
Vascular Peptide Endothelin-1 Links Fat Accumulation With Alterations of Visceral Adipocyte Lipolysis
Authors: van Harmelen Vanessa , Eriksson Anna , Åström Gaby , Wåhlén Kerstin , Näslund Erik , Karpe Fredrik , Frayn Keith , Olsson Tommy , Andersson Jonas , Rydén Mikel , Arner Peter
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVE— Visceral obesity increases risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. This may partly be due to a region-specific resistance to insulin's antilipolytic effect in visceral adipocytes. We investigated whether adipose tissue releases the vascular peptide endothelin-1 (ET-1) and whether ET-1 could account for regional differences in lipolysis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— One group consisted of eleven obese and eleven nonobese subjects in whom ET-1 levels were compared between abdominal subcutaneous and arterialized blood samples. A second group included subjects undergoing anti-obesity surgery. Abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues were obtained to study the effect of ET-1 on differentiated adipocytes regarding lipolysis and gene and protein expression.

RESULTS— Adipose tissue had a marked net release of ET-1 in vivo, which was 2.5-fold increased in obesity. In adipocytes treated with ET-1, the antilipolytic effect of insulin was attenuated in visceral but not in subcutaneous adipocytes, which could not be explained by effects of ET-1 on adipocyte differentiation. ET-1 decreased the expression of insulin receptor, insulin receptor substrate-1 and phosphodiesterase-3B and increased the expression of endothelin receptor-B (ETBR) in visceral but not in subcutaneous adipocytes. These effects were mediated via ETBR with signals through protein kinase C and calmodulin pathways. The effect of ET-1 could be mimicked by knockdown of IRS-1.

CONCLUSIONS— ET-1 is released from human adipose tissue and links fat accumulation to insulin resistance. It selectively counteracts insulin inhibition of visceral adipocyte lipolysis via ETBR signaling pathways, which affect multiple steps in insulin signaling.
Mas Deficiency in FVB/N Mice Produces Marked Changes in Lipid and Glycemic Metabolism
Authors: Santos Sérgio Henrique S. , Fernandes Luciana Rodrigues , Mario Érica Guilhen , Ferreira Adaliene Versiani M. , Pôrto Laura Cristina J. , Alvarez-Leite Jaqueline Isaura , Botion Leida Maria , Bader Michael , Alenina Natalia , Santos Robson Augusto S.
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVE— Metabolic syndrome is characterized by the variable coexistence of obesity, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. It is well known that angiotensin (Ang) II is importantly involved in the metabolic syndrome. However, the role of the vasodilator Ang-(1-7)/Mas axis is not known. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of genetic deletion of the G protein–coupled receptor, Mas, in the lipidic and glycemic metabolism in FVB/N mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— Plasma lipid, insulin, and cytokine concentrations were measured in FVB/N Mas-deficient and wild-type mice. A glucose tolerance test was performed by intraperitoneally injecting d-glucose into overnight-fasted mice. An insulin sensitivity test was performed by intraperitoneal injection of insulin. Uptake of 2-deoxy-[3H]glucose by adipocytes was used to determine the rate of glucose transport; adipose tissue GLUT4 was quantified by Western blot. Gene expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, type 1 Ang II receptor, and angiotensinogen (AGT) were measured by real-time PCR.

RESULTS— Despite normal body weight, Mas-knockout (Mas-KO) mice presented dyslipidemia, increased levels of insulin and leptin, and an ∼50% increase in abdominal fat mass. In addition, Mas gene–deleted mice presented glucose intolerance and reduced insulin sensitivity as well as a decrease in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by adipocytes and decreased GLUT4 in adipose tissue. Mas−/− presented increased muscle triglycerides, while liver triglyceride levels were normal. Expression of TGF-β and AGT genes was higher in Mas-KO animals in comparison with controls.

CONCLUSIONS— These results show that Mas deficiency in FVB/N mice leads to dramatic changes in glucose and lipid metabolisms, inducing a metabolic syndrome–like state.
In Vivo Effects of Insulin and Free Fatty Acids on Matrix Metalloproteinases in Rat Aorta
Authors: Boden Guenther , Song Weiwei , Pashko Laura , Kresge Karen
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVE—Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, elevated plasma free fatty acid (FFA), and increased risk for atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD). A part of this increased risk may be due to enhanced activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Here, we have examined the effects of physiologically elevated levels of insulin and FFA on three MMPs and their inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of MMP [TIMPs]) in aortic tissue of male rats during euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamping.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Four-hour euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamps with infusion of saline/glycerol, lipid/heparin, or insulin with or without lipid/heparin were performed in alert unrestrained male rats.

RESULTS—Hyperinsulinemia increased MMP-2 (∼6-fold), MMP-9 (∼13-fold), membrane type 1-MMP (MT1-MMP; ∼8-fold) (all Western blots), and gelatinolytic activity (zymography) of MMP-2 (2-fold), while not affecting TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. Insulin increased IRS-1–associated PI 3-kinase (PI3K), extracellular signal–regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), and c-jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) (by Western blots with phospho-specific antibodies). FFA augmented the insulin-mediated increases in MMP-2 (from ∼6- to ∼11-fold), MMP-9 (from ∼3- to ∼23-fold), MT1-MMP (from ∼8- to ∼20-fold), MMP-2 gelatinolytic activity (from 2- to 3-fold), and JNK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activities but decreased insulin-mediated activation of PI3K and ERK1/2. Raising FFA without raising insulin affected neither MMPs nor TIMPs.

CONCLUSIONS—FFA augmented insulin stimulation of the MMP/TIMP balance of three proatherogenic MMPs and increased activities of two MAPKs (JNK and p38 MAPK), both of which are known to stimulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines. This may, over time, increase degradation of extracellular matrix and together with inflammatory changes promote development of ASVD.
A Comparison of Lateral Column Lengthening and Medial Translational Osteotomy of the Calcaneus for the Reconstruction of Adult Acquired Flatfoot
Authors: Bolt Patrick M. , Coy Samuel , Toolan Brian C.
Published: November 2007

Background: This study compared the effects of lateral column lengthening and medial translational calcaneal osteotomy on pedal realignment and degeneration of adjacent hindfoot joints noted on radiographs. Methods: Forty patients who had either a lateral column lengthening (25 feet) or calcaneal osteotomy (17 feet) to reconstruct a flatfoot were retrospectively reviewed as two groups. Six parameters of foot alignment were measured from weightbearing preoperative, early postoperative, and latest followup radiographs. The magnitude of realignment achieved initially and preserved at latest followup was determined for each group. The talonavicular and subtalar joints were graded for radiographic evidence of arthritis before the reconstruction and at latest followup. Demographic information, complication rate, and reoperation associated with each group also were determined by chart review. Results: The group that received a lateral column lengthening demonstrated a greater initial realignment than the group treated with a calcaneal osteotomy. The lengthening group also demonstrated greater realignment than the osteotomized group when they were compared at their respective latest followup. The lengthening group had a higher number of adjacent joints with progression of arthritis. The rate of nonunion was higher with a lateral column lengthening; however, the rate of reoperation after an osteotomy was more than twice that observed after a lateral column lengthening. Conclusions: The lateral column lengthening group achieved greater realignment initially and maintained correction better over time than the calcaneal osteotomy group while having a lower reoperation rate despite a higher incidence of nonunion and radiographic progression of adjacent joint arthritis.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Transfer: Results of Fixation to the Dorsiflexors Proximal to the Ankle Joint
Authors: Wagenaar Frank-Christiaan B.M. , Louwerens Jan Willem K.
Published: November 2007

Background: Most techniques for posterior tibial tendon transfer attach the posterior tibial tendon somewhere at the dorsum of the foot. Inadequate tendon length and difficulties in securing the tendon to bone or tendon can complicate these procedures. Performing the tenodesis proximal to the ankle joint can prevent these problems. The present study is the first to describe the results of posterior tibial tendon transfer through the interosseous membrane attaching only the posterior tibial tendon to the extensor tendons proximal to the ankle joint. Methods: We examined 13 feet in 12 patients with a foot-drop, equinovarus deformity, or both. The median (range) followup was 3.7 years (9 to 81 months) and the median age at surgery as 30 (13 to 59) years. Evaluation included recording patient satisfaction, use of ankle-foot orthoses (AFO), video-assisted gait analysis, physical examination, the Stanmore system, modified Ninković method, and complications. Results: At followup, patient satisfaction was excellent to good in nine feet. Ten of the 11 feet that needed an AFO preoperatively did not need one after surgery. Gait analysis demonstrated a good to fair gait in 10 patients. Median dorsiflexion was 0 (−25 to 12) degrees, with dorsiflexion to a neutral position or beyond in nine feet. The Stanmore system and modified Ninković method showed excellent to good results in 10 feet. Three complications were recorded including one failed tendon transfer. Conclusions: Attachment of a split posterior tibial tendon to the extensor tendons proximal to the ankle joint provides results equivalent to other procedures and can be considered a viable operative alternative because it is less difficult and more straightforward than other techniques.
Plantar Pressure Analysis in Cadaver Feet After Bony Procedures Commonly Used in the Treatment of Stage II Posterior Tibial Tendon Insufficiency
Authors: Scott Aaron T. , Hendry Travis M. , Iaquinto Joseph M. , Owen John R. , Wayne Jennifer S. , Adelaar Robert S.
Published: November 2007

Background: Bony procedures play an essential role in the operative treatment of stage II posterior tibial tendon insufficiency and often substantially alter the loading characteristics of the foot. Methods: Eight matched pairs of cadaver lower extremities were axially loaded onto a TekScan HR Mat. (TekScan, Inc., South Boston, MA) After intact testing, each specimen had a lateral column lengthening (either a calcaneocuboid distraction arthrodesis [CCDA] or Evans procedure), a medializing calcaneal osteotomy (MCO), and a plantarflexion (Cotton) osteotomy of the medial cuneiform. The measured plantar pressures were divided into three forefoot regions, two midfoot regions, and two hindfoot regions. For each region, average pressure, peak pressure, and contact area data were collected. Results: Despite the fact that both lateral column lengthening procedures resulted in increased lateral forefoot pressures, no significant differences were noted between the CCDA and the Evans procedure. The addition of a MCO did not significantly alter the plantar pressures measured after the lateral column lengthening alone. Although the Cotton osteotomy resulted in increased average pressures within the medial forefoot, a compensatory significant decrease in lateral forefoot pressures was not observed. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated increased lateral forefoot pressures after a combined lateral column lengthening and MCO and does not support the idea that a Cotton osteotomy significantly reduces loading of the lateral forefoot. Clinical Relevance: The incidence of lateral forefoot pain and fifth metatarsal stress fractures subsequent to either lateral column lengthening procedure may not significantly decline after a Cotton osteotomy.
Isolated Recession of the Gastrocnemius Muscle: The Baumann Procedure
Authors: Herzenberg John E. , Lamm Bradley M. , Corwin Chris , Sekel John
Published: November 2007

Background: The Baumann procedure consists of intramuscular lengthening (recession) of the gastrocnemius muscle in the deep interval between the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles. The goal of the procedure is to increase ankle dorsiflexion when ankle movement is restricted by a contracted gastrocnemius muscle. Unlike the Vulpius procedure, the Baumann procedure truly isolates the lengthening site to the gastrocnemius muscle and does not lengthen the soleus muscle. The Baumann procedure has not previously been studied in cadaver specimens. Methods: The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of 15 normal cadaver specimens had four sequential releases: a single gastrocnemius recession, a second gastrocnemius recession, a single soleus recession, and an Achilles tenotomy. Ankle dorsiflexion was measured with a goniometer initially, after each muscle recession, and after the tenotomy. Results: After the second gastrocnemius recession, the average increase in ankle dorsiflexion measured 14 degrees with the knee extended and 8 degrees with the knee flexed. Conclusions: The Baumann procedure treats equinus contracture of the gastrocnemius muscle by improving ankle joint dorsiflexion. The procedure is indicated when the results of the Silfverskiöld test are positive.
Peroneal Tendon Subluxation Repair With an Indirect Fibular Groove Deepening Technique
Authors: Ogawa Brent K. , Thordarson David B. , Zalavras Charalampos
Published: November 2007

Background: Peroneal tendon subluxation or dislocation is a relatively uncommon entity with multiple operative treatment methods described. This is a report of an indirect fibular groove deepening technique. Methods: Fifteen consecutive patients had repair of peroneal tendon subluxation or dislocation with an indirect fibular groove deepening technique. The mean duration of symptoms before surgery was 32 (range 1 to 80) weeks. Mean followup was 13 (range 3 to 26) months. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score was calculated and compared for patients with and without Worker's Compensation claims and in patients with and without concomitant operative procedures. Results: The average postoperative AOFAS score was 87.1. Patients with Worker's Compensation claims had an average AOFAS score of 80.6 compared to 90.4 in patients without Worker's Compensation claims ( p = 0.07). Patients who had an isolated repair of peroneal subluxation had a substantially higher AOFAS hindfoot score (95.3) than patients who had other procedures such as a peroneal tendon repair (81.6; p = 0.004). No patient had residual tendency for subluxation or dislocation postoperatively. Conclusions: An indirect groove deepening technique is an effective way of treating peroneal tendon dislocation with good results. Patients with Worker's Compensation claims or other associated pathology have poorer outcomes.
À la recherche des saveurs du temps : nouvelles d'une Lisbonne sensible
Authors: Índias Cordeiro Graça
Published: November 2007

Resume: A partir da identificação de personagens e locais pertencentes ao passado e ao imaginário da cidade de Lisboa, tratase de explorar certos temas que constituem símbolos urbanos e marcadores sensíveis. A permanência de représentações emblemáticas da cidade de Lisboa (mercados, bairros ou ainda « tipos populares ») résulta, entre outros aspectos, da sintese estabelecida par essas representaçôes entre diferentes dimensôes sensíveis do quotidiano e da memória de uma cidade. Falam dela (e ela através delas) e s obr etudo ajudam a pensála como um todo integrado ultrapassando a fragmentaçâo das percepçôes, das emoçôes e das imagens résultantes da diversidade e da complexidade
Le fado : ethnographie dans la ville
Authors: Pais de Brito Joaquim , Frias Anibal
Published: November 2007

Résumé: À partir d'une approche historique du fado et de son contexte socio- politique, l'auteur montre comment se sont fixés, autour de 1930, les canons stylistiques mais aussi les images et les mythes de ce chant lisboète, tel qu'il est aujourd'hui connu et vécu. L'histoire du fado est aussi un révélateur de la ville.
Familles, ressources et migrations dans un village de la Beira Alta
Authors: Vieira Sérgio
Published: November 2007

Ce texte présente un extrait d'une thèse de doctorat sur les migrations d'origine rurale. En économie des migrations, les logiques différentielles des migrants et de leurs familles sont souvent oubliées. Dans cette présentation, nous démontrons que les individus ne formulent pas toujours leurs décisions économiques indépendam- ment du cadre familial. Au contraire, les familles révèlent des comportements stratégiques qui définissent souvent les choix migratoires des individus. Nous mettons alors en évidence l'importance des ressources matérielles et des réseaux de parenté dont disposent les familles pour prévoir et organiser la migration de leurs membres.
Traditions étudiantes et cultures académiques : l'Université de Coimbra
Authors: Frias Anibal
Published: November 2007

A sociedade tradicional estudantil, chamada Academia, seus costumes e rituais (Praxe académica), tira parte da sua logica e muitas das suas caracteristicas - não sem desviá-las pela caricatura ou a transgressão - das marcas hierárquicas e das formas cerimoniais do corpo docente. Juntos, são objeto de uma descrição empírica e histórica e de um cruzamento analítico. Se traços sociais e culturais sâo recorren- tes e até estruturadores dos procedi- mentos eruditos e das « maneiras » de ser coletivos, sera que se pode falar de comunidade universitária ?
Study of Heavy Metal Speciation in Sediments Impacted with Crude Oil in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Iwegbue Chukwujindu Maxwell Azubuike , Arimoro Francis Ofurum , Nwozo Sarah Onyenibe
Published: November 2007

Sequential chemical extraction was used to assess trace metal speciation and availability in sediments from Abalagada‐Aboh catchments in the Niger Delta that have received significant impact of crude oil spillage. The proportions of trace metals in the various geochemical fractions were variable. The result of speciation among the five geochemical fractions indicates that Cd was associated with easily exchangeable/adsorbed and carbonate fractions, Cu and Cr predominantly to organic and residual fraction, Pb was associated with Fe‐Mn oxides and carbonate fractions, Ni to residual and Fe‐Mn oxides, Mn was associated with Fe‐Mn oxides and residual and Zn was associated with carbonate and Fe‐Mn oxide fractions. The data revealed that Cd, Pb, Zn and Ni have high mobility indices and are thus relatively labile and bioavailable to aquatic flora and fauna.
Determination of Quats in Beverages and Urine Samples by Capillary Zone Eletrophoresis
Authors: Aulakh Jatinder Singh , Fekete Agnes , Malik Ashok Kumar , Schmitt‐Kopplin Ph. , Mahajan R.K
Published: November 2007

Conditions have been developed for simultaneous determination of paraquat (PQ) and diquat (DQ) by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) with diode array detector (DAD) after their preconcentration by solid phase extraction using Megabond Elut C18 and Strata X 33 μm Polymeric sorbent cartridges. Conditions were optimised with reference to pH, EDTA concentration in sodium acetate acetic acid buffer of pH (3.8) with 3‐8 % of methanol, ethanol and acetonitrile as organic modifier in the background electrolyte. UV detection with variable wavelength was used to determine each compound at its maximum absorption providing an excellent sensitivity. The recovery of these compounds from water samples spiked at different levels was more than 90 %. The limit of detection (S/N=3) obtained for milli‐Q water when spiked with standards was 0.17 ppm for DQ and 0.19 ppm for PQ, in tap water samples it was found to be 0.27 ppm for DQ and 0.31 ppm for PQ, in cola beverages it was found to be 0.29 ppm for DQ and 0.35 ppm for PQ, and for the urine samples it was 0.36 ppm for diquat and 0.41 ppm for the PQ without preconcentration. After preconcentration using polymeric cartridge the detection limit was reduced to 2.5 ppb for DQand 3 ppb for PQ for the milli‐Q water. These detection limits allows for the analysis of these compounds at the levels established by the US Environmental Protection agency.
Electrochemical Oxidation and Determination of Norepinephrine in the Presence of Ascorbic Acid and Uric Acid at a Poly(Calconcarboxylic Acid)‐Modified Electrode
Authors: Yao Hong , Sun Yuanyuan , Lin Xinhua , Tang Yuhai , Huang Liying
Published: November 2007

A poly(calconcarboxylic acid) film was prepared originally via electrochemically depositing calconcarboxylic acid (CCA) on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) by cyclic voltammetry (CV). The polymer showed excellent electrocatalytic activity to the oxidation of norepinephrine and could detect separately ascorbic acid (AA), norepinephrine (NE) and uric acid (UA) in their mixture. Separations of the oxidation peak potentials of NE‐AA and UA‐AA were 160 and 150 mV, respectively. Using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), the peak current of NE was linearly dependent on its concentration within the range of 10–300 μmol L‐1. No interference was produced for the determination of NE in the presence of AA and UA. Owing to its good selectivity and robustness, the poly(CCA)‐modified GCE was used for the determination of NE in injections with satisfactory results.
Synthesis of 2‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methoxy Benzaldehyde Thiosemicarbazone (HMBATSC) and its Application for Direct and Second Derivative Spectrophotometric Determination of Palladium(II)
Authors: Srivani I. , Praveen Kumar A. , Reddy P. Raveendra , Reddy K.P.P.R. Mohan , Reddy V. Krishna
Published: November 2007

2‐Hydroxy‐3‐methoxy benzaldehyde thiosemicarbazone (HMBATSC) has been synthesized and its analytical applications are investigated. A rapid, simple, sensitive and selective spectrophotometric method is developed for the determination of palladium (II) in aqueous dimethyl formamide (DMF). Palladium (II) forms a yellowish M2L3 complex with 2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxy‐benzaldehyde green coloured thiosemicarbazone in the pH range 1.0‐7.0 at room temperature. The complex shows absorption maximum at 380nm with molar absorptivity and Sandell's sensitivity of 2.198 × 104 l mol‐1 cm‐1 and 0.049μg cm‐2 respectively. Beer's law is obeyed in the range of 0.426 to 4.257 μg ml‐1 of Pd (II). A second order derivative spectrophotometric ethod for the determination of palladium (II) has also been proposed. Interference of various diverse ions has been studied. The proposed method is successfully applied for the determination of palladium in alloy steels and in hydrogenation catalysts.
PVC Matrix Membrane Sensor for Potentiometric Determination of Triphenyltetrazolium Chloride and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Mostafa Gamal Abdel‐Hafiz
Published: November 2007

The construction and performance characteristic of a potentiometric PVC membrane sensor for the determination of triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TPTCl) is described. The sensor is based on the use of triphenyltetrazolium (TPT)‐tetraphenylborate (TPB) ion pair as ion exchange sites in PVC matrix in presence of dioctylphathalte as plasticizer. The TPT membrane sensor shows a stable, near‐Nernestian response for 6×10‐6 ‐ 1×10‐2 M TPTCl at 25 °C over the pH range 3‐10 with cationic slope of 57.0 ± 0.5. The lower detection limit is 4×0‐6M and the response time is 10‐30 sec. Selectivity coefficients for TPTCl relative to a number of different cations and anions were investigated, which there is negligible interferences. However, iodide, bromide and thiocyanate were interfering. The determination of 2.0‐ 3340.0 μg/ml of TPTCl in aqueous solutions shows an average recovery of 98.5 % and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.9 at 160μg/ml. The proposed method has been used for indirect potentiometric determination of ascorbic acid in its pharmaceutical formulations which are comparable favorably with those of British pharmacopoeia method. Precipitation titrations involving TPTCl as titrant are monitored with NaTPB using the proposed membrane sensor; the inflection break is about 300 mV.
Flotation Separation and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometric Determination of Trace Amount of Lead in Some Environmental Samples
Authors: Hosseini Mohammad Saeid , Hassan‐ABADI Reyhaneh
Published: November 2007

A flotation method based on formation of an ion‐associate complex between ferroin and Pb(II)‐thiosulfate complex is proposed for the quantitative separation and preconcentration of Pb(II) content in various environmental samples. The flotation process was carried out using a 250‐mL aliquot of the aqueous solution at the buffering pH of 8.50 in which the ion‐associate complex was floated at the interface of the aqueous/xylene phases. The ion‐associate complex was then dissolved in 5 mL of acidic solution of 0.05 M KClO3 and the Pb(II) content was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). By this method, a preconcentration factor of 50 can be achieved so that the determination of trace amounts of Pb(II) ions is feasible in the range of 1×10‐7 to 1.2×10‐6 M. The LOD and RSD (n=7) were obtained as 1.5×10‐8 M and 1.5 %, respectively. It was found that a large number of cations and anions even at high considerably foreign ion/Pb(II) ratios were not interfered. In treatment with a SRM water sample and a synthetic liquid extract of vegetable, the recoveries were more than 95 %s, which confirmed validity of the method. The method was satisfactorily applied for determining of trace amount of Pb(II) in some complex matrices.
Flow cytometry in the diagnosis of drug‐induced thrombocytopenia: Two illustrative cases
Authors: Scognamiglio Francesca , Corso Chiara , Madeo Domenico , Castaman Giancarlo , Visco Carlo , Borghero Carlo , Ruggeri Marco , Rodeghiero Francesco
Published: November 2007

Drug‐induced thrombocytopenia is a challenging diagnosis in the clinical practice because of the many drugs or alternative causes that may be implicated. Exact identification of such drug(s) is required to guide future management and avoid re‐exposure. We describe two cases of isolated thrombocytopenia in which cytometric analysis, a readily available technique, allowed the identification of the causative drug in the context of complex therapies (rifampicin and abciximab causing late onset thrombocytopenia). Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic property of a novel ion‐pair nickel(III) complex containing 1,2‐benzenedithiolate
Authors: Liu Guang‐Xiang , Huang Liang‐Fang , Ren Xiao‐Ming
Published: November 2007

A new ion‐pair complex [1‐(4‐nitrobenzyl)pyridinium][Ni(bdt)2] (1), in which bdt2− = 1,2‐benzenedithiolate, has been synthesized and characterized. The X‐ray structure analysis shows that the anions are centrosymmetric, the two non‐equivalent anions form different uniform‐spaced stacking pattern and the weak H‐bonding interactions of CH…S were observed in 1. The temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibilities of 1 indicates ferromagnetic behavior in the antiferromagnetic exchange system, which may arise from spin‐canting. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of the severe weather environment in North America simulated by a global climate model
Authors: Marsh Patrick T. , Brooks Harold E. , Karoly David J.
Published: November 2007

Annual and seasonal cycles of convectively important atmospheric parameters for North America have been computed using the Community Climate System Model version 3 (CCSM3) Global Climate Model using a decade of CCSM3 data. Results for the spatial and temporal distributions of environments conducive to severe convective weather qualitatively agree with observational estimates from NCAR/NCEP global reanalyses, although the model underestimates the frequency of occurrence of severe weather environments. This result demonstrates the possibility for future studies aimed at determining possible changes in the distribution of severe weather environments associated with global climate change. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society