bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fault Analysis Method Considering Dual-Sequence Current Control of VSCs under Unbalanced Faults
Authors: Jia Jundi , Yang Guangya , Nielsen Arne Hejde
Published: June 2018

Voltage source converters (VSCs) are able to provide both positive- and negative-sequence short circuit currents under unbalanced faults. Their short circuit responses can be significantly different from those of conventional synchronous generators. This paper developed a static fault analysis method by considering dual-sequence current control of VSCs under unbalanced faults where VSCs are treated as voltage-dependent current sources in both positive- and negative-sequence networks. Since the control strategy of VSCs varies, flexible parameters are included in the model to reflect their diverse short circuit behaviours. The proposed method is verified through a modified IEEE 9-bus system and a simplified western Danish power system with real time simulations. This analytical method can be used to help understand and evaluate the impact of dual-sequence current control of VSCs on future converter-dominated power systems.
Clock Recovery Challenges in DSP-Based Coherent Single-Mode and Multi-Mode Optical Systems
Authors: Diniz Júlio , Da Ros Francesco , Zibar Darko
Published: June 2018

We present an analysis of clock recovery algorithms in both polarization division multiplexing systems and mode division multiplexing systems. The impact of inter-polarization time skew and polarization mode dispersion in single-mode fibers, as well as the combined impact of mode mixing and mode group delay spread in multi-mode fibers under different coupling regimes are investigated. Results show that although the clock tone vanishing has a known solution for single-mode systems, in multi-mode systems even for low group delay spread, strong coupling will cause clock tone extinction, making it harder to implement an effective clock recovery scheme.
The Role of aDNA in Understanding the Coevolutionary Patterns of Human Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Pimenoff Ville N. , Houldcroft Charlotte J. , Rifkin Riaan F. , Underdown Simon
Published: June 2018

Analysis of pathogen genome data sequenced from clinical and historical samples has made it possible to perform phylogenetic analyses of sexually transmitted infections on a global scale, and to estimate the diversity, distribution, and coevolutionary host relationships of these pathogens, providing insights into pathogen emergence and disease prevention. Deep-sequenced pathogen genomes from clinical studies and ancient samples yield estimates of within-host and between-host evolutionary rates and provide data on changes in pathogen genomic stability and evolutionary responses. Here we examine three groups of pathogens transmitted mainly through sexual contact between modern humans to provide insight into ancient human behavior and history with their pathogens. Exploring ancient pathogen genomic divergence and the ancient viral-host parallel evolutionary histories will help us to reconstruct the origin of present-day geographical distribution and diversity of clinical pathogen infections, and will hopefully allow us to foresee possible environmentally induced pathogen evolutionary responses. Lastly, we emphasize that ancient pathogen DNA research should be combined with modern clinical pathogen data, and be equitable and provide advantages for all researchers worldwide, e.g., through shared data.
Investigating the Promoter of FAT10 Gene in HCC Patients
Authors: Liu Shuaichen , Jin Yu , Zhang Dongwei , Wang Jingbo , Wang Guangyi , Lee Caroline G. L.
Published: June 2018

FAT10, which is also known as diubiquitin, has been implicated to play important roles in immune regulation and tumorigenesis. Its expression is up-regulated in the tumors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) and other cancer patients. High levels of FAT10 in cells have been shown to result in increased mitotic non-disjunction and chromosome instability, leading to tumorigenesis. To evaluate whether the aberrant up-regulation of the FAT10 gene in the tumors of HCC patients is due to mutations or the aberrant methylation of CG dinucleotides at the FAT10 promoter, sequencing and methylation-specific sequencing of the promoter of FAT10 was performed. No mutations were found that could explain the differential expression of FAT10 between the tumor and non-tumorous tissues of HCC patients. However, six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including one that has not been previously reported, were identified at the promoter of the FAT10 gene. Different haplotypes of these SNPs were found to significantly mediate different FAT10 promoter activities. Consistent with the experimental observation, differential FAT10 expression in the tumors of HCC patients carrying haplotype 1 was generally higher than those carrying haplotype II. Notably, the methylation status of this promoter was found to correlate with FAT10 expression levels. Hence, the aberrant overexpression of the FAT10 gene in the tumors of HCC patients is likely due to aberrant methylation, rather than mutations at the FAT10 promoter.
Childhood and Adolescence Cancers in the Palermo Province (Southern Italy): Ten Years (2003–2012) of Epidemiological Surveillance
Authors: Mazzucco Walter , Cusimano Rosanna , Mazzola Sergio , Rudisi Giuseppa , Zarcone Maurizio , Marotta Claudia , Graziano Giorgio , D’Angelo Paolo , Vitale Francesco
Published: June 2018

Italy has one of the highest paediatric cancer incidence rates in Europe. We compared cancer incidence and survival rates in children (0–14 years) and adolescents (15–19 years) residing in Palermo Province (PP) with statistics derived from Italian and European surveillance systems. We included all incident cancer cases, malignant tumours and non-malignant neoplasm of central nervous system (benign and uncertain whether malignant or benign), detected in children and adolescents by the Palermo Province Cancer Registry (PPCR) between 2003 and 2012. A jointpoint regression model was applied. Annual Average Percentage Changes were calculated. The Besag–York-Mollie model was used to detect any cluster. The 5-year survival analysis was computed using Kaplan-Meier and actuarial methods. We identified 555 paediatric cancer incident cases (90% “malignant tumours”). No difference in incidence rates was highlighted between PPCR and Italy 26 registries and between PPCR and Southern Europe. No jointpoint or significant trend was identified and no cluster was detected. The 5-year overall survival didn’t differ between PP and the Italian AIRTUM pool. A borderline higher statistically significant survival was observed in age-group 1–4 when comparing PPCR to EUROCARE-5. The epidemiological surveillance documented in the PP was a paediatric cancer burden in line with Italy and southern Europe. The study supports the supplementary role of general population-based cancer registries to provide paediatric cancer surveillance of local communities.
Inflammatory Markers and MicroRNAs: The Backstage Actors Influencing Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Nasr Rihab , Salim Hammoud Miza , Nassar Farah , Mukherji Deborah , Shamseddine Ali , Temraz Sally
Published: June 2018

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a deadly disease, afflicting the lives of millions worldwide. The prognosis of CRC patients is best predicted by surgical resection and pathological analysis of specimens. Emerging evidence has attributed a significant role to inflammatory markers and microRNAs (miRNAs) in the prognosis and survival of CRC patients. Aim: Here, we review the literature on inflammatory markers and miRNAs with an established role on survival rates, response to systemic chemotherapy, and other clinic-pathological parameters in CRC patients. Results: Our literature review revealed a critical role of inflammatory markers—specifically, the acute-phase proteins, inflammatory cytokines, and blood cell ratios—on prognostic outcomes in CRC patients. MiRNAs, on the other hand, were useful in predicting prognosis and clinical response and accordingly stratifying CRC patients for optimal drug selection. Conclusion: These biomarkers are easily measured in routine blood exams and can be used in adjunct to the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging system to identify high-risk patients and those who are more likely to benefit from chemotherapy and other targeted therapies. However, more prospective studies are needed for the validation of these discussed prognostic and predictive biomarkers.
PPARs and Energy Metabolism Adaptation during Neurogenesis and Neuronal Maturation
Authors: D’Angelo Michele , Antonosante Andrea , Castelli Vanessa , Catanesi Mariano , Moorthy NandhaKumar , Iannotta Dalila , Cimini Annamaria , Benedetti Elisabetta
Published: June 2018

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are a class of ligand-activated transcription factors, belonging to the superfamily of receptors for steroid and thyroid hormones, retinoids, and vitamin D. PPARs control the expression of several genes connected with carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and it has been demonstrated that PPARs play important roles in determining neural stem cell (NSC) fate. Lipogenesis and aerobic glycolysis support the rapid proliferation during neurogenesis, and specific roles for PPARs in the control of different phases of neurogenesis have been demonstrated. Understanding the changes in metabolism during neuronal differentiation is important in the context of stem cell research, neurodegenerative diseases, and regenerative medicine. In this review, we will discuss pivotal evidence that supports the role of PPARs in energy metabolism alterations during neuronal maturation and neurodegenerative disorders.
MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Konstantinell Aelita , Coucheron Dag , Sveinbjørnsson Baldur , Moens Ugo
Published: June 2018

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer associated with a poor prognosis. This carcinoma was named after its presumed cell of origin, the Merkel cell, which is a mechanoreceptor cell located in the basal epidermal layer of the skin. Merkel cell polyomavirus seems to be the major causal factor for MCC because approximately 80% of all MCCs are positive for viral DNAs. UV exposure is the predominant etiological factor for virus-negative MCCs. Intracellular microRNA analysis between virus-positive and virus-negative MCC cell lines and tumor samples have identified differentially expressed microRNAs. Comparative microRNA profiling has also been performed between MCCs and other non-MCC tumors, but not between normal Merkel cells and malignant Merkel cells. Finally, Merkel cell polyomavirus encodes one microRNA, but its expression in virus-positive MCCs is low, or non-detectable or absent, jeopardizing its biological relevance in tumorigenesis. Here, we review the results of microRNA studies in MCCs and discuss the potential application of microRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis, progression and prognosis, and treatment of MCC.
Experimental Model of Human Malignant Mesothelioma in Athymic Mice
Authors: Colin Didier J. , Cottet-Dumoulin David , Faivre Anna , Germain Stéphane , Triponez Frédéric , Serre-Beinier Véronique
Published: June 2018

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a thoracic aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, which is difficult to diagnose and treat. Here, we characterized an in vivo orthotopic xenograft model consisting of human mesothelioma cells (designed as H2052/484) derived from a pleural NCI-H2052 tumor injected in partially immunodeficient athymic mice. We assessed tumor formation and tumor-dependent patterns of inflammation. H2052/484 cells conserved their mesothelioma phenotype and most characteristics from the parental NCI-H2052 cells. After intra-thoracic injection of H2052/484 cells, thoracic tumors developed in nearly all mice (86%) within 14 days, faster than from parental NCI-H2052 cells. When the mice were euthanized, the pleural lavage fluid was examined for immune cell profiles. The pleural immune cell population increased with tumor development. Interestingly, the proportion of myeloid-derived suppressor cell and macrophage (especially CD206+ M2 macrophages) populations increased in the pleural fluid of mice with large mesothelioma development, as previously observed in immunocompetent mice. This reliable orthotopic model recapitulates human mesothelioma and may be used for the study of new treatment strategies.
Salicylic Acid Induces Resistance in Rubber Tree against Phytophthora palmivora
Authors: Deenamo Nuramalee , Kuyyogsuy Arnannit , Khompatara Khemmikar , Chanwun Thitikorn , Ekchaweng Kitiya , Churngchow Nunta
Published: June 2018

Induced resistance by elicitors is considered to be an eco-friendly strategy to stimulate plant defense against pathogen attack. In this study, we elucidated the effect of salicylic acid (SA) on induced resistance in rubber tree against Phytophthora palmivora and evaluated the possible defense mechanisms that were involved. For SA pretreatment, rubber tree exhibited a significant reduction in disease severity by 41%. Consistent with the occurrence of induced resistance, the pronounced increase in H2O2 level, catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities were observed. For defense reactions, exogenous SA promoted the increases of H2O2, CAT, POD and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activities, including lignin, endogenous SA and scopoletin (Scp) contents. However, SA had different effects on the activity of each CAT isoform in the particular rubber tree organs. Besides, three partial cDNAs encoding CAT (HbCAT1, HbCAT2 and HbCAT3) and a partial cDNA encoding PAL (HbPAL) were isolated from rubber tree. Moreover, the expressions of HbCAT1, HbPAL and HbPR1 were induced by SA. Our findings suggested that, upon SA priming, the elevated H2O2, CAT, POD and PAL activities, lignin, endogenous SA and Scp contents, including the up-regulated HbCAT1, HbPAL and HbPR1 expressions could potentiate the resistance in rubber tree against P. palmivora.
Efficient Low-Resource Compression of HIFU Data
Authors: Kleparnik Petr , Barina David , Zemcik Pavel , Jaros Jiri
Published: June 2018

Large-scale numerical simulations of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), important for model-based treatment planning, generate large amounts of data. Typically, it is necessary to save hundreds of gigabytes during simulation. We propose a novel algorithm for time-varying simulation data compression specialised for HIFU. Our approach is particularly focused on on-the-fly parallel data compression during simulations. The algorithm is able to compress 3D pressure time series of linear and non-linear simulations with very acceptable compression ratios and errors (over 80% of the space can be saved with an acceptable error). The proposed compression enables significant reduction of resources, such as storage space, network bandwidth, CPU time, and so forth, enabling better treatment planning using fast volume data visualisations. The paper describes the proposed method, its experimental evaluation, and comparisons to the state of the arts.
Special Issue: “Concrete Structures: Present and Future Trends”
Authors: Valença Jónatas
Published: June 2018

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Effect of Polyacrylic Acid on Rheology of Cement Paste Plasticized by Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer
Authors: Ma Baoguo , Peng Yi , Tan Hongbo , Lv Zhenghang , Deng Xiufeng
Published: June 2018

Viscosity-enhancing agents (VEA) have been widely employed in high flowability cement-based materials, so as to ensure that no bleeding and segregation would occur. However, in most cases, interaction between VEA and superplasticizer would be unavoidable. In this study, the effect of polyacrylic acid (PAA), known as one of the most commonly used VEAs, on rheology performance of cement paste containing polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE), was studied. The initial fluidity was assessed with mini slump, and rheological behavior of cement paste was evaluated with rotor rheometer. Adsorption amount was examined with total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer, and the zeta potential was also tested. The interaction between PAA and PCE in the presence of calcium ion (Ca2+) was analyzed with conductivity, X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results illustrate that PAA can adsorb onto the surface of cement particles to plasticize cement paste, being similar to PCE. In the presence of Ca2+, PAA can be curled and crosslinked, as a result of the combination between carboxyl groups (COO−) and Ca2+, thereby affecting the adsorption performance and conformation behavior. It is interesting that negative impact of PAA on dispersion efficiency of PCE can be demonstrated; one reason is the reduced adsorption amount of PCE by PAA competitively adsorbing onto the cement surface, and another possible reason is the invalided PCE by adsorption of PAA. Additionally, molecular weight of PAA should be considered if being used as VEA in PCE system.
The Emergence of Fuzzy Sets in the Decade of the Perceptron—Lotfi A. Zadeh’s and Frank Rosenblatt’s Research Work on Pattern Classification
Authors: Seising Rudolf
Published: June 2018

In the 1950s, the mathematically oriented electrical engineer, Lotfi A. Zadeh, investigated system theory, and in the mid-1960s, he established the theory of Fuzzy sets and systems based on the mathematical theorem of linear separability and the pattern classification problem. Contemporaneously, the psychologist, Frank Rosenblatt, developed the theory of the perceptron as a pattern recognition machine based on the starting research in so-called artificial intelligence, and especially in research on artificial neural networks, until the book of Marvin L. Minsky and Seymour Papert disrupted this research program. In the 1980s, the Parallel Distributed Processing research group requickened the artificial neural network technology. In this paper, we present the interwoven historical developments of the two mathematical theories which opened up into fuzzy pattern classification and fuzzy clustering.
Mažos šalies žurnalų citavimo rodiklis: realybė ar iliuzija?
Authors: Kėvelaitis Egidijus , Grabauskas Vilius
Published: June 2018

2007 m. gruodžio 20 d. Kaune, Senamiestyje, Rotušės aikštėje esančiuose senoviniuose rūsiuose įrengtoje kavinėje „Sadutė“ įvyko medicinos mokslo žurnalų leidybos aktualiems klausimams skirtas renginys, kuriame dalyvavo Lietuvos prestižinių ir recenzuojamų žurnalų „Medicina“[...]
Changes of heart geometry in patients with ischemic heart disease
Authors: Pangonytė Dalia , Stalioraitytė Elena , Kazlauskaitė Danutė , Žiuraitienė Reda , Stanionienė Zita , Kerpauskienė Sonata
Published: June 2018

Objective. The aim of the study was to determine ventricular and atrial cardiometric parameters at preinfarction and postinfarction stage of ischemic heart disease. Object and methods. Cardiometric parameters (mass, endocardial surface area, the tracts of flow and outflow, etc.) of 132 men (mean age of 49.7±8.9 years) who had died suddenly during prehospital period (within 6 hours) after the first or repeated acute event of “pure” ischemic heart disease were investigated. These patients had no other, except ischemia, factors predisposing myocardial hypertrophy as well as clinical symptoms of heart failure. The decedents were divided into preinfarction (71 men) and postinfarction ischemic heart disease (61 men) groups. Results. At preinfarction stage of ischemic heart disease, mass and endocardial surface area of all parts of the heart were increased, the tracts of flow and outflow – longer. At postinfarction stage, only corresponding left ventricular and atrial parameters were more increased. Conclusions. Eccentric type of left ventricular hypertrophy (proportional increase of mass and endocardial surface area) and concentric type of right ventricular and right and left atrial hypertrophy (the part of myocardium mass per unit of endocardial area is greater) were determined at preinfarction stage of ischemic heart disease. At postinfarction stage, at least as far as evidence of heart failure is not overt, only the corresponding left ventricular and atrial hypertrophy progresses.
Natural clearance of hepatitis C virus in hemophilia patients
Authors: Simanis Raimonds , Lejniece Sandra , Sochnevs Arturs , Eglite Jelena , Chernevska Gunta , Kovalova Zhanna , Gardovska Dace , Jeruma Agita , Kuse Velga , Viksna Ludmila
Published: June 2018

Objective. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HCV (hepatitis C virus) infection in hemophilia patients in Latvia and to analyze association between natural clearance of HCV and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II genes. Material and methods. From 61 hemophilic patients participating in this study, 38 were adults and 23 were pediatric patients younger than 18 years. To analyze association between HLA class II alleles and natural clearance of HCV, the gene frequency was compared in hemophilia patients group and the control group of 60 healthy subjects, all men. Serum HCV RNA was qualitatively determined and HLA class II alleles were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Results. HCV infection is common among hemophilia patients in Latvia. Antibodies to HCV were found in 45 of 61 (74%) hemophilia patients. In 41% of hemophilia patients (18 of 44), HCV infection resolved spontaneously. Children cleared HCV more frequently than adults (7 of 11 comparing to 11 of 33, respectively; OR=3.50; P<0.05). The frequency difference was found to be statistically significant when comparing HLA alleles distribution in the sample of hemophilia patients who naturally cleared HCV (n=18) and in the control group (n=60) (corresponding frequency of HLA-DRB1*07 allele – 4 (11.11%) and 9 (1.67%); OR=7.38; P<0.05). Conclusions. Natural clearance of HCV infection is frequently found in hemophilia patients in Latvia. Children are more likely to clear virus naturally than adults. There is an association between natural clearance of HCV and HLA allele DRB1*07 in hemophilia patients.
Surgical treatment of Graves’ disease: Subtotal thyroidectomy might still be the preferred option
Authors: Lepner Urmas , Seire Indrek , Palmiste Veronika , Kirsimägi Ülle
Published: June 2018

Objective. The aim of this prospective study was to report our results after thyroidectomy for Graves’ disease. In addition, the relationship between the thyroid remnant and postoperative thyroid function was studied. Material and methods. Forty-nine consecutive patients were operated on for Graves’ disease. The indications for surgery were persistent or recurrent hyperthyroidism after medical treatment in 34 patients (69.4%), mechanical symptoms due to a large goiter in 7 (14.3%), increased ophthalmopathy in 7 (14.3%), and allergy to antithyroid medications in 1 patient (2.0%). Total thyroidectomy (TT) was performed in 28 and subtotal thyroidectomy (STT) in 21 patients. Followup lasted 24 to 70 months. Results. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of postoperative complications comparing TT and STT. The patients who underwent TT had no recurrence during a mean follow-up of 47 months. After STT, with the mean weight of the thyroid remnant 3.0±1.0 g, there was no relapse of Graves’ disease during a mean follow-up of 52 months. After STT, postoperative hypothyroidism developed in 14 patients (66.7%); 7 patients (33.3%) remained euthyroid during follow-up. Comparison of the euthyroid patients and the hypothyroid patients revealed no difference in the weight of the remnant (3.3 g vs. 2.8 g), but a statistically significant difference occurred in the weight of the resected gland (61.0 g vs. 94.4 g, P=0.026) and in the proportion of the remnant (5.6% vs. 3.3%, P=0.030). Conclusions. Both TT and STT are safe procedures regarding postoperative complication rate. STT with the thyroid remnant of about 3 g allows to permanently cure hyperthyroidism ensuring the euthyroid state in a significant proportion of patients. Postoperative thyroid function after STT is best predicted by the proportion of the remnant.
Heart rate and systolic blood pressure response during the early exercise test and cardiovascular mortality after myocardial infarction
Authors: Bloznelienė Kamilė , Žaliūnas Remigijus , Braždžionytė Julija , Grybauskienė Regina , Bloznelis Mindaugas , Bertašienė Zita , Lukšienė Dalia , Mickevičienė Audronė , Christauskienė Violeta , Zaronskienė Danutė
Published: June 2018

Exercise cardiography still remains the cornerstone of noninvasive evaluation of functional status of cardiovascular system and is almost uniformly performed after myocardial infarction. The patients after myocardial infarction can be divided into relative high- and low-risk groups for subsequent cardiac events if all information available on the exercise test is used. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of the shape of heart rate and systolic blood pressure curves (their dynamic characteristics) during the early exercise testing and after it and to design the prognostic system capable to recognize patients with a high risk of coronary death during 2 years after myocardial infarction. Material and methods. The submaximal exercise testing within 3 weeks of acute myocardial infarction was performed on 894 patients. Cases of noncardiac deaths or patients subjected to coronary bypass surgery were excluded from the further analysis. At the end of 2 years after myocardial infarction, there were 426 survivors and 42 cases of cardiac death. At 2-year follow-up after infarction in the nonsurvivor group, there were only 42.2% of patients with exercise-induced ST segment depression. This shows that prognostic importance of ST depression is insufficient and demands research of more consistent signs. Results. The cardiovascular response to exercise was interpreted as transiting process of self-regulation of cardiovascular system, and the new predictive signs were found based on the curves of heart rate and systolic blood pressure during the exercise and after it. The prognostic value of these signs was established. The combined use of both the new predictive signs and usual data of early exercise test shows the high predictive possibility of test – the early cardiac death was predicted in 80% of cases. Conclusion. The combined use of both, the widely accepted data of early exercise test after myocardial infarction and dynamic characteristics of heart rate and systolic blood pressure, increased the predictive power of the test.
Barriers to cancer pain management: A review of empirical research
Authors: Jacobsen Ramunë , Liubarskienë Zita , Møldrup Claus , Christrup Lona , SJøgren Per , Samsanavičienë Jurgita
Published: June 2018

Patient-, physician-, and health care system-related barriers of cancer pain management in patients with malignant diseases are a recognized and widely investigated issue. The purpose of this review is to summarize the main findings of empirical research on these barriers in the literature. The most significant patientrelated barriers were patient reluctance to report pain and adhere to treatment recommendations. Besides that, cognitive, affective, and sensory patient-related barriers to cancer pain management with opioid analgesics have been studied using quantitative and qualitative research methods. The Barriers Questionnaire and its shortened and modified versions were the most commonly used instruments in the context of research on patient-related barriers to cancer pain management. The most prominent physicianrelated barriers were insufficient physicians’ knowledge about cancer pain management, inadequate patterns of pain assessment, and inadequate opioid prescription. The methodologies used to conduct the majority of the studies on physician-related barriers were weak. Nevertheless, physician knowledge of pain management guidelines, the quality of pain assessment and opioid prescription have been shown to be obviously better in a few Western countries. Institutional and health care system-related barriers were relevant only in countries with restrictive opioid prescription regulations. The evaluation of the influence of cultural-social-economical background on cancer pain management could probably help to obtain better insight into the problems of unrelieved cancer pain.
Markers of endothelial dysfunction after cardiac surgery: Soluble forms of vascular-1 and intercellular-1 adhesion molecules
Authors: Balčiūnas Mindaugas , Bagdonaitė Loreta , Samalavičius Robertas , Baublys Alis
Published: June 2018

Endothelium forms an inner layer of vascular wall. It plays an important role in inflammatory process, regulation of vascular tone, and synthesis of thromboregulatory substances. Leukocyte and endothelium interactions during inflammation are regulated by different families of adhesion molecules. Increased levels of soluble forms of adhesion molecules have been detected in the circulating blood in conditions such as autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, ischemia-reperfusion injury in addition to neutrophil- and endothelial membrane-bound forms reflecting the level of endothelial dysfunction. It is known that endothelial dysfunction is a risk factor for ischemic events such as stroke, myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, ventricle fibrillation, necessity of revascularisation procedures, and death from cardiovascular reasons. Clinical studies showed that cardiac surgery has an impact on vascular endothelial function as well. The amount of endotheliumderived soluble forms of vascular-1 and intercellular-1 adhesion molecules increases after cardiopulmonary bypass suggesting endothelial dysfunction. However, further investigations are needed to be done to support the evidence that endothelial dysfunction proceeding heart surgery is one of the reasons of tissue ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Laparoscopic surgery for malignancies of the colon, rectum, and anus in Lithuania in 2008
Authors: Samalavičius Narimantas , Rudinskaitė Giedrė , Pavalkis Dainius , Latkauskas Tadas , Kaselis Nerijus , Šidlauskas Žilvinas , Šniuolis Pranas , Poškus Tomas , Kvedaras Vytautas , Strupas Kęstutis , Poškus Eligijus
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to analyze data on laparoscopic surgery for malignant diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus in Lithuania during the period of January 1, 2005, to February 15, 2008. Material and methods. During the above-mentioned period in Lithuania, 130 laparoscopic surgeries for malignancies of colon, rectum, and anus were performed in seven different hospitals. There were 73 males and 57 females with a mean age of 68 years (range, 35–85 years). Laparoscopic procedures were attempted in 140 cases. Out of them, 130 were completed laparoscopically; 10 operations were converted to open, and conversion rate was 7.1%. Twenty-seven (20.8%) patients had stage I, 45 (34.6%) stage II, 45 (34.6%) stage III, and 13 (10%) stage IV disease. Ninety-two (70.8%) patients underwent straight laparoscopic surgery and 38 (29.2%) – hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery. Time in surgery was from 50 to 365 min, with a mean of 183 min. During 130 operations, in 11 (8.5%) cases, blood vessels were ligated through specimen retrieval site. Out of 104 operations, where anastomosis was performed (23 abdominoperineal resections and 3 Hartmann’s procedures), in 68 (65.4%) cases it was done laparoscopically and in 36 (34.6%) cases using conventional extracorporal suturing. Results. Hospital stay ranged from 7 to 59 days, with a mean of 12 days. One (0.8%) patient died. Postoperative complications occurred in 27 (20.8%) cases. Reoperation rate was 4.6% (6 cases). Complications were as follows: suture insufficiency (3 cases), eventration (3 cases), wound infection (7 cases), intraperitoneal abscess (1 case), abdominal wall phlegmon (1 case), intra-abdominal infiltrate (1 case), perineal hematoma (1 case), proctovaginal fistula (2 case), intraoperative bleeding from uterus (1 case), urinary retention (4 cases), cystitis (1 case), pneumonia (1 case), acute cardiovascular insufficiently (1 case). In histological specimens, 10 lymph nodes were found on the average (range, 2 to 27). Conclusions. Laparoscopic surgery for malignant diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus is dominating among laparoscopic surgeries for colorectum. Complication rate is similar to other authors. To evaluate disease relapse and outcomes, observation time is not sufficient yet.
Epileptic seizures in critically ill patients
Authors: Stasiukynienė Virginija , Pilvinis Vidas , Reingardienė Dagmara , Janauskaitė Liuda
Published: June 2018

The aim of this article – to review the causes, clinical signs, pathophysiology, consequences, and treatment of seizures and status epilepticus in critically ill patients. Only 25% of people, who have seizures and status epilepticus, have epilepsy as well. In the intensive care settings, seizures and status epilepticus are a common neurologic complication, which is attributable to primary neurologic pathology (stroke, hemorrhage, tumor, central nervous system infection, head trauma) or secondary to critical illness (anoxic brain damage, intoxications, metabolic abnormalities) and clinical management. There are three main subtypes of status epilepticus in intensive care units: generalized convulsive status epilepticus, focal motor status epilepticus, and nonconvulsive status epilepticus. A seizure is a consequence of electrical neurological derangement because of sudden imbalance between the inhibitory and excitatory forces within the network of cortical neurons. The main inhibiting neurotransmitter in the brain is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which binds to GABA-A and GABA-B receptors. The main excitatory neurotransmitter is glutamate, which binds to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Different ions (Cl–, K+, Na+, Ca2+) also play a role in the pathophysiology of seizures. Prolonged status epilepticus may lead to different systemic and neurologic consequences. Generalized convulsive status epilepticus is one of the most common emergencies encountered in clinical practice, which requires immediate treatment. The first-line drugs are benzodiazepines (lorazepam, diazepam), the second-line ones – phenytoin and fosphenytoin. For the treatment of refractory status epilepticus, barbiturates (phenobarbital, pentobarbital, thiopental), valproate, midazolam, propofol, and isoflurane are used. The dosage of drugs and parameters to monitor are referred in the article. The mortality from generalized convulsive status epilepticus is 15–50%; the main factors, influencing prognosis, are the cause and the duration of status epilepticus and age of a patient.
School nurses’ contribution to schoolchildren’s future health
Authors: Grinienė Elvyra , Liutaitė Neringa
Published: June 2018

In the changing contemporary society, certain demands for health care system become evident. In recent years, declining health indicators of Lithuanian schoolchildren prompt to analyze the situation of schoolchildren’s health care: whether health care at schools is sufficient and effective and how school nurses deal with schoolchildren’s health problems on a daily basis. Objective. To analyze how school nursing specialists work at school and what problems they encounter while providing health care to schoolchildren. Material and methods. A total of 202 school nurses from five main Lithuanian cities participated in the survey in 2005. More than three-fourths (77.7%) of the respondents had been working at school for more than 10 years. For the survey, an original closed questionnaire, consisting of 28 questions, was used. Results. The survey showed that most of school nurses were approached by schoolchildren with the following health problems: visual impairment, anomalous posture, and scoliosis. More than three-fourths (75.5%) of the school nurses noted that schoolchildren’s health was getting worse over the last five years. School nurses usually provide care to 11–30 schoolchildren per day. Most of their time is spent on schoolchildren’s health check-ups, health education, and documentation. The school nurses noted that the efficiency of health care system at school was reduced by a number of problems, including poor working conditions, the lack of medical equipment, inadequate computer systems. Therefore, the cooperation among nurses, school administration, and parents must be substantially improved. Conclusions. The competence of school nurses should be maintained through an educational approach by developing their qualification, as well as through a social approach by improving their cooperation with school community and parents.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: possibilities of early diagnostics
Authors: Barkauskienė Rasa , Bongarzoni Asta , Bieliauskaitė Rasa , Jusienė Roma , Raižienė Saulė
Published: June 2018

The present study aimed at analyzing the possibilities of early diagnostics of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder in toddlers and preschool children. Parents and caregivers from children day care centers provided information about 863 children (mean age, 47.18 months; 410 girls and 453 boys). The methods used in the study were as follows: Child Behavior Checklist/1½-5 (CBCL), Caregiver-Teacher Report Form (C-TRF), and clinical questionnaire for evaluation of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms. The study consisted of two stages: 1) screening of the emotional and behavioral problems of children based on parental and caregiver-teachers’ reports; 2) clinical interview with parents of children at risk for attentiondeficit/ hyperactivity disorder as measured by empirical ratings of attention hyperactivity symptoms. Results revealed that according to parental ratings, attention and hyperactivity problems are related to children’s age. According to caregiver-teachers’ ratings, boys were rated as having more problems of attention and hyperactivity than girls. Based on the results from the first stage, children at risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were analyzed further. Case study analysis showed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in these children to be a part of overall pattern characterized by behavioral, emotional, and other problems. The quantitative as well as qualitative analysis provides the evidence for a high comorbidity of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder and other emotional and behavioral problems in early childhood. Study showed that comprehensive clinical assessment is necessary for early diagnostics of ADHD.
The influence of surgical treatment and red blood cell transfusion on changes in antioxidative and immune system parameters in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Surinėnaitė Birutė , Prasmickienė Gražina , Milašienė Vida , Stratilatovas Eugenijus , Didžiapetrienė Janina
Published: June 2018

Objective. To determine the effect of surgical treatment and red blood cell transfusion on the parameters of antioxidative and immune systems in patients with early and advanced stage colorectal cancer. Material and methods. A total of 65 patients with colorectal cancer were included in the study. Three blood serum samples of each patient were tested comparing presurgical and postsurgical periods of 7 and 14 days. Malondialdehyde and total glutathione levels, activity of catalase and glutathione S-transferase were determined spectrophotometrically. The concentration of cytokines TGF-beta1 and TNF-alpha were determined by ELISA. Results. Malondialdehyde and glutathione levels decreased in surgically treated patients with cancer of both stages while catalase activity decreased in patients with stage III cancer. Cytokine levels did not change after surgery. A decrease in malondialdehyde concentration was observed in the transfused patients with early stage cancer comparing postsurgical periods. Catalase activity was increased after surgery in patients with early stage cancer but was decreased during postsurgical periods in patients with advanced stage cancer. Cytokine levels increased at postsurgical periods in transfused patients with stage III cancer. Correlation between catalase activity and TNF-alpha level and between glutathione S-transferase activity and TGF-beta1 level was determined postsurgically in transfused patients with early stage cancer. Conclusions. Postsurgical period affected antioxidative system of patients with cancer of both stages while level of cytokines showed no differences. Transfusion determined distinct dynamics of antioxidative parameters due to cancer stage. Elevated cytokine levels in transfused patients with advanced stage cancer showed that the status of immune system was exacerbated. Antioxidative and immune systems were depressed in these patients. Correlation between antioxidative system parameters and cytokines in transfused patients of early stage cancer showed a relationship between two protective systems of the organism against malignant process.
Sense of coherence and its associations with psychosocial health: results of survey of the unemployed in Kaunas
Authors: Stankūnas Mindaugas , Kalėdienė Ramunė , Starkuvienė Skirmantė
Published: June 2018

Objective. To evaluate the associations between sense of coherence and psychosocial health among unemployed adult population. Material and methods. The data were collected during a cross-sectional study in 2005. There were 429 filled-in questionnaires received (response rate, 53.6%) from unemployed persons registered at the Kaunas Labor Market Office (Lithuania). For the assessment of the sense of coherence, a short 13-item version of the Orientation to Life Questionnaire was used. Long-term unemployment was defined as lasting 12 months or longer. Logistic regression was used to estimate the risk factors having influence on sense of coherence. The risk was evaluated using odds ratio (OR). Results. The mean score for sense of coherence was 56.6±11.2 (min, 13; max, 91). Significantly higher sense of coherence was found among the short-term unemployed as compare to the long-term ones. Analysis showed that sense of coherence was significantly higher in males, more educated and less materially deprived groups. The findings indicated that persons with depression, suicide intentions, more intensive alcohol consumption (after the job loss), poor self-reported health, feelings of loneliness and shame, and poor relations with family reported lower sense of coherence. The risk of low sense of coherence was significantly higher for females (OR=2.97) and the long-term unemployed (OR=1.81). Nevertheless, higher education (OR=0.73) and income (OR=0.83) were the factors that significantly improved sense of coherence. Conclusions. Sense of coherence was low among the unemployed in Kaunas. Sense of coherence was lower among the unemployed with negative psychosocial health characteristics in comparison to the unemployed with positive characteristics.
Competence of general practice nurses caring for patients with mental health problems in the somatic departments
Authors: Švedienė Ligija , Jankauskienė Lina , Kušleikaitė Marija , Razbadauskas Artūras
Published: June 2018

Objective. To investigate competence of general practice nurses caring for patients with mental health problems in the somatic departments. Material and methods. A quantitive study on competence of general practice nurses using an anonymous questionnaire was carried out in Klaipėda secondary health care institution in January–February of 2007. The respondents (128 general practice nurses) were selected from seven departments, in which psychiatric consultation was more frequently recommended. In the working places of nurses, 140 questionnaires were distributed; 135 questionnaires were completed (response rate was 96.4%), among them 7 questionnaires were acknowledged as not valid. Results. About 45.0% of general practice nurses had knowledge how to care for the patients with mental health problems, from 1.6 to 21.9% did not have knowledge, and the rest reported having only moderate knowledge (28.1–64.1%). These findings provided a statistically significant link between the duration of employment and education (r from 0.292 to 0.76; P from <0.05 to <0.01). However, only 30.5% of respondents were able to manage conflicts. Most common undesirable events (60.3%) were runaway from inpatient clinic care, injury followed by runaway (29.4%), and suicide (10.3%). From 18.8% to 28.9% of respondents believed that undesirable events were influenced by an unsuitable environment of the department, the shortage of time and personnel, difficulty in getting a psychiatrist’s consultation. Only 3.1% of respondents thought that these undesirable events might be affected by the lack of competence of personnel. Most of the nurses (form 75.0% to 84.4%) had a positive attitude toward the patients; however, the nursing principles were recognized only by (6.3% to 24.2%) of respondents. Conclusions. Competence of the nurses caring for the patients with mental health problems is not at the level required. This may be associated with insufficient professional skills, conflict situations with the patients, and the lack of acknowledgment of the principles of nursing.
MoSe2/Montmorillonite Composite Nanosheets: Hydrothermal Synthesis, Structural Characteristics, and Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Peng Kang
Published: June 2018

MoSe2/montmorillonite composite nanosheets were successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method, and the photocatalytic activities of the samples were evaluated by the decoloration of Rhodamine B. The structural characterizations indicate that the MoSe2 nanosheets grow uniformly on the surface of montmorillonite with interface interaction, and the active sites on the nanosheet edges are exposed. Montmorillonite can inhibit the agglomeration of MoSe2 nanosheets, improve the hydrophilicity and dispersibility of composites, and provides a larger surface area and more reactive sites for photocatalytic reaction. MoSe2/montmorillonite possesses the highest adsorption properties and photocatalytic abilities, and the overall decoloration rate is up to 98.2% after visible light irradiation for 45 min. The assembly of montmorillonite could enhance the photocatalytic ability of MoSe2, and the possible photocatalytic reaction mechanism of MoSe2/montmorillonite for Rhodamine B was explored. MoSe2/montmorillonite has potential applications in the photodegradation of organic dyes in the wastewater.
Archaeometric Analyses of European 18th–20th Century White Earthenware—A Review
Authors: Maggetti Marino
Published: June 2018

This study provides an overview of the few archaeometric analyses of European white earthenwares from England, France, Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland. White earthenwares were an extremely successful mass-product between ca. 1750 and 1900. They became “the porcelain of the poor man” and replaced the older traditional pottery such as faïence. The invention of this new ceramic type took place simultaneously in England and France shortly before 1750. Contemporary recipes can be compared to the analytical results of these products. The ceramic bodies are, according to the chemical (X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscope-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), particle-induced X-ray emission-proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE-PIGE) and microscopic analyses (scanning electron microscope-back scatter detector (SEM-BSE), artificial mixtures of clay + quartz + flux. Various techniques can be recognized. In England, a blend of a CaO-poor clay (with illite flux) + calcined flint is typical of the so-called creamware, whereas supplementary fluxes (Cornish stone) resulted in the Queen’s ware. In France and Central Europe, CaO-poor clays were mixed with grog (Paris) or with calcined flint/quartz pebbles/sand or with carbonates + Alk-/Pb-frits (Lorraine). Swiss CaO-rich bodies may contain bone ash or dolomite as flux. The products of the individual factories can be differentiated on the basis of their chemical composition. Micromorphological and chemical analyses revealed intensive physico-chemical reactions between the glaze and the body.