bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selectivity of the Formation of the Ring-Closed Products and Methylcyclohexenes in the Dehydrogenation of Methylcyclohexane to Toluene
Authors: Usman Muhammad R. , Cresswell David L. , Garforth Arthur A.
Published: July 2012

In our previous publication (Usman et al., 2011), the by-products formation during the dehydrogenation of methylcyclohexane over 1.0 wt% Pt/γ-Al2O3 was studied under wide range of operating conditions. The formation and yield patterns of benzene, cyclohexane, and isomers of xylene were studied. In the present contribution, the formation and yield patterns of the ring-closed products (sum of ethylcyclopentane and dimethylcyclopentanes) and methylcyclohexenes are studied. The yields of both of the ring-closed products (RCPs) and methylcyclohexenes (MCHes) were observed to increase with an increase in pressure. However, the effect of hydrogen concentration was found affecting differently at the low and at the high pressures. The yield patterns of methylcyclohexenes suggested methylcyclohexenes as the reaction intermediate in the formation of toluene.
Chemical Degradation of Epoxy-Polyamide Primer by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Duraisamy Ramesh , Pownsamy Kannan , Asgedom Ghebray
Published: July 2012

The degradation of organic-inorganic hybrid materials based on epoxy resin was characterized electrochemically in aggressive chemical electrolyte. In the present study, the hybrid material as primer was prepared from epoxy resin pigmented by zinc phosphate cured with polyamide (EPZ). The hybrid material was coated on mild steel substrate, and the corrosion behavior was studied by electrode-potential time measurements and mainly by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 5% NaCl solution. The impedance parameters, namely, coating capacitance (), pore resistance (), charge transfer resistance (), double layer capacitance (), and break point frequency (), corresponding to 45° phase angle as a function of time of exposure were estimated. The observed impedance behavior were compared with the established equivalent electrical circuit represents the coated metal/electrolyte interface. Changes in the values of the circuit components given the information on the stages of degradation and physical phenomenon occurring throughout the degradation of primer coating were also been predicted. In addition, information related to the porous nature of the primer, limited passivation effect, and delamination of coating with longer exposure that resulted in the diffusion controlled corrosion of metal are also recognized. Thus, results indicate that the EPZ coating had good corrosion resistance. This could be a nonpolluting alternative to the traditional chromate like environmentally harmful coatings.
Free Field Surface Motion at Different Site Types due to Near-Fault Ground Motions
Authors: Dixit Jagabandhu , Dewaikar D. M. , Jangid R. S.
Published: July 2012

Seismic hazards during many disastrous earthquakes are observed to be aggravating at the sites with the soft soil deposits due to amplification of ground motion. The characteristics of strong ground motion, the site category, depth of the soil column, type of rock strata, and the dynamic soil properties at a particular site significantly influence the free field motion during an earthquake. In this paper, free field surface motion is evaluated via seismic site response analysis that involves the propagation of earthquake ground motions from the bedrock through the overlying soil layers to the ground surface. These analyses are carried out for multiple near-fault seismic ground motions at 142 locations in Mumbai city categorized into different site classes. The free field surface motion is quantified in terms of amplification ratio, spectral relative velocity, and spectral acceleration. Seismic site coefficients at different time periods are also evaluated for each site category due to near-fault ground motions from the acceleration response spectra of free field surface motion at each site and the corresponding acceleration response spectra at a reference rock outcrop site.
Is Leukocytosis a Predictor for Recurrence of Ischemic Events after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery? A Cohort Study
Authors: Rashidi Farid , Jamshidi Peiman , Kheiri Marziah , Ashrafizadeh Shadi , Ashrafizadeh Amir , Abdolalian Fatemeh , Mirzamohamadi Fatemeh
Published: July 2012

Objective. Studies have shown that inflammation plays an important role in pathogenesis of coronary artery disease. The present study was designed to evaluate the role of high WBC count before CABG in predicting the risk of ischemic events after CABG. Methods and Results. This prospective study was carried out on 380 patients who underwent CABG surgery. Ninety seven patients (25.5%) had recurrent ischemic event. Mean WBC count before CABG surgery in patients with recurrent ischemic event was 7267 mic/lit ± 1863, which was significantly higher than the others, with a mean WBC count of 6721 mic/lit ± 1734 (P=0.011). Patients with a WBC count more than 6000 mic/lit were at the highest risk for recurrent ischemic event (OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.18–3.44, P=0.009). After adjustment for age, sex, family history, smoking, hyperlipidemia, Logestic Euro score, post opretive enzyme release (CK.mb), arterial graft and BMI, the relationship between the group with WBC count higher than 6000 mic/lit and recurrent of ischemic event remained significant (OR = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.2 to 4, P=0.005). Conclusions. High WBC count before CABG surgery is an independent risk factor for ischemic events one year after the surgery.
Prognostic Factors and Recurrence in Breast Cancer: Experience at the National Cancer Institute of Mexico
Authors: Stankov A. , Bargallo-Rocha J. E. , Silvio A. Ñamendys-Silva , Ramirez M. T. , Stankova-Ninova K. , Meneses-Garcia A.
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this study was to analyze the prognostic and predictive factors that relate to locoregional or distant recurrences in breast cancer patients who have been treated at the National Cancer Institute of Mexico. Multivariate, time-dependent Cox regression analyses indicate that the pN status (positive versus negative lymph node; P=0.003; HR (hazard ratio), 3.47; CI (confidence interval), 1.52–7.91) and the pathological complete response of the patient to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (yes versus no; P=0.061; HR, 0.38; CI, 0.14–1.04) were important prognostic factors for recurrence.
The Distribution of PSA Age-Specific Profiles in Healthy Irish Men between 20 and 70
Authors: Casey R. G. , Hegarty P. K. , Conroy R. , Rea D. , Butler M. R. , Grainger R. , McDermott Ted , Thornhill J. A
Published: July 2012

Background. Ireland is estimated to have the highest European incidence rate of prostate cancer (Pca) in 2006 which will increase by 275% by 2025. This study aimed to determine PSA cutoff values in different age groups of healthy male patients without Pca. Methods. 660 men in a pilot men’s health programme, aged 18–67, had PSA assayed. Men were grouped into 8 age groups at 5-year intervals: 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, and 64–70. Results. Linear regression demonstrates a PSA velocity of 0.024 ng/ml/year. The 95% confidence interval demonstrates a near flat line of PSA values from age 20 to 50 and rises after. When transformed logarithmically, PSA correlates highly with expected values from the normal distribution (0.98). A fractional polynomial quantile regression model was used to predict median and 95th percentile for PSA as follows: 30–34 (0.73, 1.57), 35–39 (0.71, 1.65), 40–44 (0.73, 1.85), 45–49 (0.78, 2.17), 50–54 (0.88, 2.63), 55–59 (1.01, 3.25), 60–64 (1.20, 4.02), and 64–70 (1.43, 4.96). Conclusions. PSA levels are similar to other racial groups but not as high as US Caucasians until 65 years. These data define the predicted PSA for the Irish population and provide a reference for future screening programmes.
The Prevalence of Dental Anomalies in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Afify Ahmed R. , Zawawi Khalid H.
Published: July 2012

Objective. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the prevalence of dental anomalies that could be a cause of malocclusion in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study of 878 digital orthopantomograms (OPGs) taken of patients, age ranging between 12 and 30 years, who presented to treatment at the Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia between 2002 and 2011. The OPGs and dental records were reviewed for congenitally missing teeth, supernumerary teeth, impactions, ectopic eruption, transposition, germination, fusion, dilacerations, taurodontism, dens in dent, and any other unusual conditions that can be assessed with OPG. Results. The prevalence of patient that exhibited at least one dental anomaly was 396 (45.1%) patients. The prevalence of congenitally missing teeth was 226 (25.7%), impacted teeth 186 (21.1%), dilacerated teeth 10 (1.1%), supernumerary teeth 3 (0.3%), odontoma 1 (0.1%), and taurodontism was also 1 case (0.1%) of the total radiographs reviewed. Conclusions. Congenitally missing teeth were found to be the most prevalent anomaly (25.7%), and the second frequent anomaly was impacted teeth (21.1%), whereas root dilacerations, supernumerary teeth, and taurodontism were the least frequent anomalies (1.1%, 0.3% and 0.1%, resp.).
Limiting Solar Cell Heat-Up by Quantizing High Energy Carriers
Authors: Devarakonda L. , Mil'shtein S.
Published: July 2012

Under solar radiation the efficiency of solar cells decreases as a result of heating up by short wavelengths photons. To minimize loss of efficiency with increasing temperatures, we designed a heterostructure AlGaAs/AlGaAs/GaAs cascaded p-i-n solar cells with 30 Å wide quantum wells and 10 Å wide barriers in p and i regions. Our modeling demonstrated that quantizing high energy carriers in the superlattice prevents scattering of excessive electron energies, thus decreasing the temperature rise per unit of time by a factor of 2. The modeling based on continuity equations included integration of absorption coefficients for various wavelengths and summarizes all thermodynamic heat exchanges in the designed solar cell.
The Patient's View of Nursing Care after Hip Fracture
Authors: Hommel Ami , Kock Marie-Louise , Persson Jeanette , Werntoft Elisabeth
Published: July 2012

Background. The pathway for patients with a hip fracture described in this study is a fast track. Many studies have focused on prevention of various complications but, so far, the patient’s view of nursing care has not been highlighted.
Aim. The aim of the study is to illuminate the patient’s view on nursing care when treated for a hip fracture.
Method. Ten patients were interviewed. A content analysis design was conducted.
Findings. From the analysis, four main categories emerged: waiting times; pain/pain relief and mobilisation; attitude/information and sense of security; complications. Conclusion. Patients generally felt satisfied with the nursing provided. The staff created a feeling of security and showed interest and empathy for the patient. However, patients experienced a stressful waiting for surgery, and patients who developed confusion waited more than 24 hours for surgery. Therefore, waiting time must be decreased. Furthermore, patients’ descriptions of a variety of pain problem show, for example, that good collaboration between the nurse and physiotherapist is critical for achieving good pain relief before mobilisation. Nursing staff need to be attentive and should elicit the patient’s feelings through patient-focused communication in order to relieve anxiety about going home.
Development and Validation of RP-HPLC Method for the Determination of Ganciclovir in Bulk Drug and in Formulations
Authors: Ramesh P. J. , Basavaiah K. , Vinay K. B. , Xavier Cijo M.
Published: July 2012

A simple, rapid, accurate, and precise gradient reversed-phase HPLC (RP-HPLC) method has been developed for the determination of ganciclovir (GNC) in pharmaceuticals. Chromatographic separation was carried out on inertsil ODS C18 (4.6 mm  mm, 5.0 μm) LC column using ammonium acetate buffer, sodium salt of hexane sulfonic acid as ion-pairing reagent in 1000 mL water, and acetonitrile (90 : 10) (v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL  and with UV detection at 245 nm at column temperature (30°C). The runtime under these chromatographic conditions was 10 min. The method was linear over the range of 0.02–75 μg . The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) values were 4.1 and 20 ng , respectively. The method was successfully extended to study the effect on GNC upon treatment with 2 N NaOH, 2N HCl, and 5% H2O2 for 2 hrs at 80°C and upon exposure to UV (1200 K lux hrs) for 72 hrs and thermal (105°C) for 5 hrs. The proposed method was further applied to the determination of GNC in pharmaceuticals, with good percent recovery. The accuracy and the precision of the method were validated on intraday and interday basis in accordance with ICH guidelines.
Vehicular Quality Biomethane Production from Biogas by Using an Automated Water Scrubbing System
Authors: Chandra R. , Vijay V. K. , Subbarao P. M. V.
Published: July 2012

This paper presents the results of an automated water scrubbing system used for enrichment of methane content in the biogas, to produce vehicular grade biomethane fuel. Incorporation of automatic control systems for precisely regulating the water level and maintaining constant operating pressure in the packed bed absorption column of water scrubbing system resulted in steady-state operation of the scrubbing system and a consistent supply of methane-enriched biogas from the gas outlet. The improved automated water scrubbing system was found to enrich 97% methane at an operating column pressure of 1.0 MPa with 2.5 m3/h biogas in-flow rate and 2.0 m3/h water in-flow rate into the scrubbing column unit.
Primary Cardiac Tumours: A Single-Center 41-Year Experience
Authors: Steger Christina Maria , Hager Thomas , Ruttmann Elfriede
Published: July 2012

Primary cardiac tumours are extremely rare with the most commonest being left atrial myxomas. In general, surgical resection is indicated, whenever the tumour formation is mobile and embolization can be suspected. Within 17280 patients receiving heart surgery at the Innsbruck Medical University, 78 patients (0.45%) underwent tumourectomy of primary cardiac tumours. The majority of patients (63) suffered from a left or right atrial myxoma, 12 showed a papillary fibroelastoma of the valves at echocardiographical or histological examination, 1 suffered from a hemangioma, 1 from a chemodectoma, and another one from a rhabdomyosarcoma. The mean age of cardiac tumour patients was 54.29 ± 13.28 years (ranging from 18 to 83 years). 67.95% of the patients were female and 32.05% were male. The majority of tumours were found incidentally; 97.44% of the patients showed no tumour recurrence.
Comparison of Gene Expression Profiling in Sarcomas and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Identifies Tumorigenic Pathways in Chemically Induced Rat Sarcoma Model
Authors: Honoki Kanya , Fujii Hiromasa , Tohma Yasuaki , Tsujiuchi Toshifumi , Kido Akira , Tsukamoto Shinji , Mori Toshio , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: July 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are believed to be the cell of origin for most sarcomas including osteosarcoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH/UPS). To identify the signaling pathways involved in sarcoma pathogenesis, we compared gene expression profiles in rat osteosarcoma and MFH cells with those in syngeneic rat MSCs. Analysis of genes that characterize MSCs such as CD44, CD105, CD73, and CD90 showed higher expression in MSCs compared to sarcomas. Pathways involved in focal and cell adhesion, cytokine-cytokine receptors, extracellular matrix receptors, chemokines, and Wnt signaling were down-regulated in both sarcomas. Meanwhile, DNA replication, cell cycle, mismatch repair, Hedgehog signaling, and metabolic pathways were upregulated in both sarcomas. Downregulation of p21Cip1 and higher expression of CDK4-cyclinD1 and CDK2-cyclinE could accelerate cell cycle in sarcomas. The current study indicated that these rat sarcomas could be a good model for their human counterparts and will provide the further insights into the molecular pathways and mechanisms involved in sarcoma pathogenesis.
External Powered Orthoses for Paraplegic Subjects: A Meta Analysis Review
Authors: Karimi Mohammad Taghi , Esrafilian Amir
Published: July 2012

Background. Various types of external powered orthoses have been designed to improve the function of paraplegic subjects; however it is not clear which one of them has better performance. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to evaluate the function of available external powered orthoses based on the research presented in the relevant literature.Method. An electronic search was done via the Pubmed, Embase, and ISI Web of Knowledge data from 1960 to 2010. The quality of the research studies was evaluated by use of Black and Down tool. The performances of the orthoses are evaluated based on the gait analysis, stability analysis, and energy consumption analysis.Results. Although various types of external powered orthoses have been designed to improve the performance of spinal cord injury individuals, there are a few research studies in this regard. Moreover, they have a poor quality.Conclusion. There is no research study regarding the performance of spinal cord injury subjects with the external powered orthoses. It is recommended to do clinical trial studies to evaluate the performance of these orthoses.
Growth Performance of Rabbits Fed Palm-Press Fibres-Based Diets
Authors: Houndonougbo M. Frederic , Chrysostome C. A. A. M. , Attakpa S. E. , Sezan A. , Dehou H. B.
Published: July 2012

An experiment was carried out to define the optimal rate of palm-press fibres in growing rabbits’ diet. In total, 64 weaned rabbits (35 days old) of Beninese breed were divided in 16 groups of 4 rabbits (2 males and 2 females) each. During six weeks, rabbits were fed with 4 complete diets containing 0% (F0, control), 5% (F5), 10% (F10), and 15% (F15) of fibres from a palm oil industry. Results demonstrated that up to 15 of palm-press fibres can be included efficiently in growing rabbits’ diet. The daily feed intake was not significantly affected by the diet (P>0.05). At 13 weeks old, the average live weights of rabbits were 1788.5 g, 1805.0 g, 1718.5 g, and 1801.3 g in respectively, F0, F5, F10 and F15 groups. No mortality of rabbits was recorded. Compared to F0, the feed conversion ratio and feeding cost decreased in the group of rabbits fed F15 diet. The carcass yield was similar between diets.
Single Channel Speech Enhancement Techniques in Spectral Domain
Authors: Kawamura Arata , Thanhikam Weerawut , Iiguni Youji
Published: July 2012

This paper presents single-channel speech enhancement techniques in spectral domain. One of the most famous single channel speech enhancement techniques is the spectral
subtraction method proposed by S.F. Boll in 1979. In this method, an estimated speech spectrum is obtained by simply subtracting a preestimated noise spectrum from an observed one. Hence, the spectral subtraction method is not concerned with speech spectral properties. It is well known that the spectral subtraction method produces an annoying artificial noise in the extracted speech signal. On the other hand, recent successful speech enhancement methods positively utilize the speech property and achieve an efficient speech enhancement capability. This paper presents a historical review about some speech estimation techniques and explicitly states the difference between their theoretical back-ground. Moreover, to evaluate their speech enhancement capabilities, we perform computer simulations. The results show that an adaptive speech enhancement method based on MAP estimation gives the best noise reduction capability in comparison to other speech enhancement methods presented in this paper.
Chitosan as a Renewable Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Knoevenagel Reaction in Ionic Liquid as Green Solvent
Authors: Phan Nam T. S. , Le Ky K. A. , Nguyen Thien V. , Le Nhan T. H.
Published: July 2012

The combination of chitosan as a renewable heterogeneous catalyst and ionic liquid as a “green” solvent was employed for the Knoevenagel reaction. The chitosan catalyst was characterized by various techniques, including X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and elemental analysis. Excellent conversions were achieved under mild conditions without the need for an inert atmosphere. There was no contribution from leached active species, and conversion was only being possible in the presence of the solid catalyst. The chitosan catalyst as well as the ionic liquid solvent could be recovered in essentially pure form after being used in the reaction, and each of them could be reused several times without a significant degradation in efficiency.
Prehabilitation: The Void in the Management of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries—A Clinical Review
Authors: Shaarani S. R. , Moyna N. , Moran R. , O'Byrne J. M.
Published: July 2012

The rehabilitation of patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction requires symmetry in bilateral quadriceps strength and adequate proprioception capabilities prior to return to preoperative level of activity or sport. This is the limiting factor and can delay the time that patients can return to play. There is little literature on pre-operative physiotherapy or prehabilitation of patient with ACL injury. This paper discusses the anatomy, biomechanics, surgical decision making, and the current knowledge of preoperative training or “prehabilitation” in patients awaiting ACL reconstruction.
Scalp and Intracranial EEG in Medically Intractable Extratemporal Epilepsy with Normal MRI
Authors: Zakaria Tarek , Noe Katherine , So Elson , Cascino Gregory D. , Wetjen Nicholas , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Marsh W. Richard , Meyer Fredric Bruce , Giannini Caterina , Watson Robert E. , Worrell Gregory A.
Published: July 2012

Purpose. To investigate EEG and SPECT in the surgical outcome of patients with normal MRI (nonlesional) and extratemporal lobe epilepsy. Methods. We retrospectively identified 41 consecutive patients with nonlesional extratemporal epilepsy who underwent epilepsy surgery between 1997 and 2007. The history, noninvasive diagnostic studies (scalp EEG, MRI, and SPECT) and intracranial EEG (iEEG) monitoring was reviewed. Scalp and iEEG ictal onset patterns were defined. The association of preoperative studies and postoperative seizure freedom was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazard. Results. Thirty-six of 41 patients had adequate information with a minimum of 1-year followup. Favorable surgical outcome was identified in 49% of patients at 1 year, and 35% at 4-year. On scalp EEG, an ictal onset pattern consisting of focal beta-frequency discharge (>13–125 Hz) was associated with favorable surgical outcome (P=0.02). Similarly, a focal fast-frequency oscillation (>13–125 Hz) on iEEG at ictal onset was associated with favorable outcome (P=0.03). Discussion. A focal fast-frequency discharge at ictal onset identifies nonlesional MRI, extratemporal epilepsy patients likely to have a favorable outcome after resective epilepsy surgery.
Codes over Graphs Derived from Quotient Rings of the Quaternion Orders
Authors: Quilles Queiroz Cátia R. de O. , Palazzo Júnior Reginaldo
Published: July 2012

We propose the construction of signal space codes over the quaternion orders from a graph associated with the arithmetic Fuchsian group Γ8. This Fuchsian group consists of the edge-pairing isometries of the regular hyperbolic polygon (fundamental region) P8, which tessellates the hyperbolic plane 𝔻2. Knowing the generators of the quaternion orders which realize the edge pairings of the polygon, the signal points of the signal constellation (geometrically uniform code) derived from the graph associated with the quotient ring of the quaternion order are determined.
Hematological Manifestations of SLE at Initial Presentation: Is It Underestimated?
Authors: Sasidharan P. K. , Bindya M. , Sajeeth Kumar K. G.
Published: July 2012

SLE can present with hematological manifestations alone or along with features of other system involvement. With a low index of clinical suspicion or inadequate follow up the diagnosis may be delayed or missed at the time of presentation, in those with hematological abnormalities as the initial manifestation. An observational study was conducted among patients of SLE, in a tertiary referral centre of North Kerala, with the purpose of estimating the proportion of patients with hematological manifestations as the initial presentation of the disease and to study their nature. It was observed that 82% of the patients had hematological manifestations at presentation. It is the most common presenting manifestation of SLE in people of North Kerala. Autoimmune hypothyroidism was one of the common coexisting abnormalities in these patients, which is not included in the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria for diagnosis. Arthritis was uncommon among those who presented with hematological manifestations. A significant number of patients do not satisfy the ACR criteria at the time of diagnosis but do so on follow up. The ACR criteria are weak to diagnose such patients and therefore need revision. We therefore propose an alternative to ACR criteria as “Kozhikode criteria for SLE”.
Optimal Discount Rates for Government Projects
Authors: Park Sangkyun
Published: July 2012

Project selection based on the net present value can be optimal only if the discount rate is optimal. The optimal discount rate for a government project can be a risk-free rate, a comparable market rate (market interest rate corresponding to the risk of cash flows to the government), or an adjusted market rate, depending on circumstances. This paper clarifies the conditions for each case. Provided that the optimal discount rate is the comparable market rate, it varies across intervention methods and changes with the subsidy rate.
An Assessment of Antibacterial Activity of Four Endodontic Sealers on Enterococcus faecalis by a Direct Contact Test: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Anumula Lavanya , Kumar Swaroop , Kumar Venkata Suneel , Sekhar Chandra , Krishna Murali , Pathapati Rama Mohan , Venkata Sarath Prathi , Vadaganadam Yamini , Rakesh Manne Kumar , Mudlapudi Srinath
Published: July 2012

Aim. To evaluate the antibacterial activity of four endodontic sealers on Enterococcus faecalis by a direct contact test. Material and Methods. Enterococcus faecalis was used as a test organism. Direct contact test which is based on measuring the effect of close contact between test bacteria and tested material on the kinetics of bacterial growth was performed to overcome the disadvantages of agar diffusion test. The sealers tested were zinc oxide eugenol-based sealer, glass-ionomer-based sealer, polydimethyl-siloxane-based sealer, and urethane dimethacrylate resin-based sealer. Data was collected by recording the optical density with the help of a spectrophotometer. Results. The sealers exhibited different inhibitory effects. The results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis by Kruskal Wallis analysis of variance and Dunn's multiple comparison test. Group comparison showed very highly significant difference between the groups. Conclusion. Zinc oxide eugenol-based sealer was the most effective and urethane dimethacrylate resin-based sealer was the least effective against Enterococcus faecalis, whereas glass-ionomer-based and polydimethyl-siloxane-based sealers were effective only for a short period. Inhibition of the bacterial growth is related to the direct contact of the microorganism with the sealer.
Properties and Application of a Partially Purified Thermoalkali Stable Xylanase fromCellulosimicrobiumsp. MTCC 10645 in Kraft Pulp Bleaching
Authors: Kamble Rajashri D. , Jadhav Anandrao R.
Published: July 2012

The most promising application of xylanases (E.C. 3.2.1.8) is in the prebleaching of kraft pulp. The present paper reports bleaching effects of a thermoalkali stable xylanase fromCellulosimicrobiumsp. MTCC 10645. The bacterium produced thermo-alkali stable xylanase in a basal medium supplemented with wheat bran (1% w/v), which was optimally active at pH 7.0 and 50°C. The xylanase was stable at temperature 50°C for 1 h and retained up to 86% of the activity. The xylanase was stable in a broad pH range of 6.0–11.0 for 1 h at 50°C. Metal ions Ca+2, Hg+2, and Pb+2were inhibitory for xylanase retaining 72.3%, 35.07% and 36.7% relative activity at 10 mM concentration, whereas Fe+2, Cu+2, Mn+2, Na+2, Co+2, and Zn+2were inducers at concentrations of 5 mM and 10 mM. The enzyme exhibited greater binding affinity exclusively for xylans but not for avicel, CMC, cellobiose, starch, or p-nitrophenyl xylopyranoside. Parachloromercuric benzoate and iodoacetamide were found stimulatory, while potassium permanganate, cysteine, and cystine markedly reduced the activity. The xylanase dose of 2.0 U/g dry weight pulp of 10% consistency gave optimum bleach boosting of kraft pulp at pH 8.0 and temperature 50°C for 5 h reaction time.
Factors Predicting Total Free Flap Loss after Microsurgical Reconstruction Following the Radical Ablation of Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Fujioka Masaki
Published: July 2012

Background. With greater experience in microsurgical reconstruction, free tissue transfer has become common and reliable. However, total flap necrosis after microsurgical reconstruction is sometimes seen in patients who have undergone radical ablation of head and neck malignancies. We investigated factors predicting free flap loss in head and neck reconstruction. Methods. We reviewed the records of 111 free flap reconstructions carried out among 107 patients with head and neck cancer who required radical resection and microsurgical reconstruction in our unit from 2004 through 2010. Among these patients, 6 showed total flap necrosis postoperatively. We investigated the associations between primary or recurrent tumor, type of flaps, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy and flap loss. Results. Five of 20 (25.0%) patients who underwent radiotherapy developed flap necrosis: among the 91 patient who did not undergo radiotherapy, only one (1.1%) developed. Preoperative radiotherapy was statistically identified as the most important risk factor for postoperative flap failure. Conclusions. Patients receiving radiation treatment are more likely to develop total flap failure when they undergo reconstructive surgery with free flaps after tumor ablation, because the combination of endarteritis and chronic ischemia caused by radiation damaged endothelial membrane in the recipient vessels, consequently, thrombosis tends to develop.
Performance of some Promising Genotypes of Soybean Under Different Planting Dates Using Biplots Analysis
Authors: A.A. Kandil  , A.E. Sharief  , A.R. Morsy  , A.I. Manar El-Sayed
Published: July 2012

Soybean yield is affected by planting dates and there are significant efficiency losses when planting are done outward a relatively restricted period. Genotypes and environment are major contributing factor of plant phenotype. Economically important quantitative traits include agronomic characteristics. Four separate experiments are carried out in each season at the experimental farm of Sakha Research Station, Kafr El-Sheikh during 2010 and 2011seasons. Seed yield of six soybeans cultivars i.e. Giza 21, Giza 22, Giza 111, H2L12, H30 and H32 examined at four different sowing dates i.e. 20th April, 5th May, of 20th May and 5th June of their effect on seed yield, and yield components. Highest number of branches/plant, number of pods/plant, 100 seed weight (g), and seed yield. Soybean cultivars showed high difference in seed yield and its component, Giza 21 exhibited maximum number of pods/plant, 100 seed yield, and seed yield. H32 cultivar contributed highest number of branches/plant. Through genotypes and genotypes x environment biplots of regression model analysis results, the performance of a cultivar at different environments was compared, the performance of six cultivars at different environments (planting dates) were compared. The results indicated that sown on 5th May increased seed yield/ha by 19.7% compared with sown on 5th June and increased seed yield by 17.9% compared with sown on 20th April, and increased seed yield by 10.3% compared with sown on 20th May. It could be noticed that Giza 21 cultivar exceeded H32 line by 16.63%, H30 line by 14.6%, Giza 22 cultivar by 13.7%, H2L12 line by 6.5% and Giza 111 by 5.3% in seed yield/ha. Highest yielding cultivars at the different mega environments were identified, and ideal cultivars and test planting date was identified. It could be suggested that soybean genotypes of Giza 21 and Giza 111 are the most promising for planting date 5th May and recorded concentrated seed yield/ha.
Report of Jacobsen syndrome with a mild facial dysmorphism, severe hearing impairment and thrombocytopenia
Authors: DIRSĖ Vaidas , CIMBALISTIENĖ Loreta , KASNAUSKIENĖ Jūratė , KUČINSKAS Vaidutis
Published: July 2012

Background. Jacobsen syndrome is a rare syndrome with variable phenotypic expression depending on the breakpoints and the size of 11q deletion. There is presented a wide range of phenotypes of varying severity. Detailed molecular cytogenetic analysis leads to better knowledge of genetic causes of this syndrome.
Materials and methods. Molecular cytogenetic analysis using subtelomeric FISH and array CGH was performed for a patient with Jacobsen syndrome.
Results. Subtelomeric FISH detected an unbalanced translocation 46,XY,der(11)t(11;13)(q24.2;p11.2) of our patient. Array CGH analysis revealed a 13.95 Mb terminal deletion of the 11q23.3 region (breakpoint positions 120, 505, 418–134, 452, 384, NCBI build 36). FISH and GTG banding analysis identified a balanced translocation 46,XX,t(11;13) (q24.2;p11.2) of patient’s mother.
Conclusions. The results of this case report suggest the need of combining both molecular cytogenetic methods: array CGH and FISH for precise analysis of patients with Jacobsen syndrome.
Natural immunity to evolutionary atavistic endotoxin in carcinogenesis induced by chemical agents (a hypothesis)
Authors: MONCEVIČIŪTĖ-ERINGIENĖ Elena
Published: July 2012

A hypothesis of the possibility of natural immunity to evolutionary atavistic endotoxin in chemical carcinogenesis is proposed. Age-dependent stimulation of IgM class natural specific antibodies to the endotoxin of gram-negative bacteria Alcaligenes faecalis 415 (IgMNAE) was confirmed in the blood of normal adult rats. This phenomenon was also revealed in human population. Simultaneously, the suppression and subsequent stimulation of natural immunity to endotoxin under the effect of carcinogenic substances such as benzo(a)pyrene (BP) and metylcholanthrene (MCh) were determined in rats.
At first, the primary age-related and the secondary carcinogen-induced enhancement of IgMNAE was explained as the compensatory reactions of the organism’s immune system. Later on, within the evolutionary resistance theo­ry of the origin of cancer, based on the general biological laws (resistance to damage and atavism), which was formulated by the author in 2002–2005, another immunological IgMNAE enhancement mechanism was elucidated and explained by the possible activation of the dormant lipopolysaccharide mole­cules (atavistic endotoxin) alongside evolutionary resistance-related genes and oncogenes according to the inherited programme. All these mechanisms are transmitted from bacteria to mammal cells and possibly have an immense power to drive and control the process of carcinogenesis. It is the activation of these genes and their functions that helps the newly formed tumorous cells to revive the parasitic features in their unlimited division, invasiveness and metastatic growth. Its essence is a specific evolutionary response intended for the survival of damaged cells. Therefore, at present, there is a new oncological strategy problem – production of endotoxin-based vaccines and their application in cancer prophylaxis. IgMNAE can be undoubtedly helpful in elaborating new immunotherapeutic and diagnostic methods.
Efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke within 3–4.5 hours in Lithuania
Authors: VILIONSKIS Aleksandras , KNOKNERIENĖ Olga , JATUŽIS Dalius
Published: July 2012

Background. Intravenous thrombolysis has been shown as an appropriate treatment for stroke patients within 3–4.5 hours from the onset of stroke in randomized and observational studies, yet extended therapeutic window remains off-label in routine clinical setting. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis within 3–4.5 hours for acute stroke patients in Lithuania.
Methods. In this pair-matched case control study stroke patients treated by intravenous thrombolysis during January 2002 – May 2010 were included. The patients were divided into two groups according to onset-to-needle time (0–180 min. (group I), and 181–270 min. (group II)), and were pair-matched 1 : 1 according to age and stroke severity. The primary end-point was good functional status after 3 months. Mortality and rates of life-threatening bleeding and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage were used for analysis of safety profile.
Results. 28 pairs were included in the final analysis. The mean onset-to-needle time was significantly higher in group II. There was no difference between the groups according to baseline variables. 32.1% of patients in group I and 39.3% of patients in group II had good functional status (p = 0.58) after 3 months. No significant differences were found between the groups in the safety profile, however, the rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage was higher in group I.
Conclusions. Intravenous thrombolysis within 3–4.5 h after the onset of stroke is acceptable and effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke in our routine clinical setting. Further studies are needed to assess the reasons of higher rates of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage.
In vitro antimicrobial activity of some plant extracts against Arcobacter butzleri and Arcobacter cryaerophilus
Authors: Adesiji Yemisi Olukemi , Akanni Racheal Adekemi , Adefioye Olusegun Adelowo , Taiwo Sunday Samuel
Published: July 2012

Background: There are increasing reports of resistance to current antibiotics employed in treatment of Arcobacter related infections.
Materials and Methods: Carica papaya, Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum and Momordica charantia were tested against A. butzleri reference strain (ABSH3-1137) and A. cryaerophilus isolated from pig and chicken using disk diffusion technique.
Results: The aqueous extract of C. papaya inhibited the growth of A. butzleri at inhibitory dose (ID) of 0.5 mg and the two A. cryaerophilus at ID of 1 mg while the methanol extract did not inhibit the growth of any strains. The aqueous and methanol extracts of V. amygdalina inhibited the growth of A. cryaerophilus isolated from pig and chicken at ID of 10 mg but did not inhibit A. butzleri. The methanol extracts of O. gratissimum inhibited A. butzleri and A. cryaerophilus pig isolate at ID of 2.5 mg and the chicken isolate at ID of 1 mg. The aqueous extracts of O. gratissimum inhibited A. butzleri, A. cryaerophilus of chicken isolate at ID of 5 mg, and A. cryaerophilus of pig isolate at 2.5 mg. The methanol extracts of M. charantia had ID of 2.5 mg for A. butzleri and A. cryaerophilus pig isolate and ID of 1 mg for A. cryaerophilus chicken isolate while the aqueous extracts had ID of 5 mg for all the three strains tested.
Conclusions: The result obtained from this study showed that both aqueous and methanol extracts of four commonly used herbs in Nigeria inhibited the growth of Arcobacter species to a varying degree with the aqueous extract of C. papaya leaves reported in vitro highest antimicrob­ial activity and thereby may serve as potential sources for new antimicrob­ial agents against Arcobacter.
Relation of social and economic factors to health policy
Authors: SAVIČIŪTĖ Rasa , JUOZULYNAS Algirdas , JURGELĖNAS Antanas , VENALIS Algirdas
Published: July 2012

Health is more than just the absence of disease. Effective health systems need an efficient health policy that is formed by various factors (like environmental, genetic, social, economic, physical, etc.). The greatest challenge and major goal of health policy is to improve the health of all population, but if we want to do this it is necessary to improve the health care system so that it could work like one united system. The human being has a significant impact on health policy-making (his / her self-determination and choice). The fundamental value of health policy-making must be involvement of all citizens in the decision-making related to health policy, supervision, training / education, etc. This process has to include society, public health professionals, doctors, politicians, press, business and so on, all of them must work, make decisions and find solutions together. Close and effective communication and collaboration are necessary between all sectors and public health professionals, also it is very important to collect information, ability and skills which would help to develop and improve existing characteristics and reform health policy. In order to achieve this goal, due attention and balance must be given to various cultural, management, technical, legal, political, social and economic processes.
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery: results of the first 50 cases
Authors: SAMALAVIČIUS Narimantas  Evaldas , KILIUS Alfredas , PETRULIS Kęstutis , LETAUTIENĖ Simona , GRIGIENĖ Rūta , BRIEDIENĖ Rūta , MIŠEIKYTĖ-KAUBRIENĖ Edita
Published: July 2012

The aim of the study was to share the experience and first results of implementation of transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) technique for the removal of rectal adenomas, early rectal cancer or rectal stricture in the Center of Oncosurgery, Oncology Institute of Vilnius University.
Materials and methods. From October 2009 to October 2011, a total of 50 patients underwent TEM for rectal adenomas, early rectal cancer or rectal stricture. The patients were 25 women and 25 men, 31 to 87 years of age (average 65 years). Rectal lesions were from 0.9 to 7.0 cm in diameter, 3–13 cm from the anal verge. Full thickness excision with 1 cm safety margin was achieved in all cases except two (mucosal excision), followed by closing of the rectal wall defect in one-layer running monocryl 3.0 suture using silver clips. In one case (TEM was performed for T2 rectal cancer), abdominal cavity was penetrated and two-layer closure was preferred.
Results. In these series of 50 patients there was 1 (2%) complication (cystitis). No postoperative exitus occurred. The hospitalisation period ranged from 2 to 13 days (average 6 days). Final histology revealed 30 (60%) tubular or villous adenomas, 6 (12%) carcinomas in situ (pTis), 7 (14%) T1, 4 (8%) T2 cancers, and well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors in 3 (6%) were diagnosed. One patient underwent open partial TME in pT1 group; the tumor was in the upper third of rectum and preoperatively evaluated as pTis disease. In two cases (pT1 group) lymphovascular invasion was present on final pathology, so they were offered a postoperative adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Other 4 patients in T1 group are under surveillance.
All 4 patients with T2 lesions were offered adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, one patient refused further treatment.
Conclusions. TEM is an alternative for transanal excision of rectal adenomas and early rectal cancer. Further follow-up is necessary to evaluate the recurrence rate of cancer in invasive cancer patients group.
Laryngopharyngeal complaints following short-term endotracheal intubation: peculiarities of males and females
Authors: PAULAUSKIENĖ Iveta , LESINSKAS Eugenijus
Published: July 2012

Background. Laryngopharyngeal complaints are classified as minor post-intubation complications. They cause great discomfort, have some influence on the quality of life and can limit patient’s casual activity. The extent of complaints ranges from 12 to 65%. Undesirable complications can be avoided by ascertaining factors that are able to provoke or decrease laryngopharyngeal symptoms after endotracheal intubation. In this study, we assessed predominant laryngopharyngeal symptoms following a short-term endotracheal intubation and their peculiarities subject to gender, and we estimated the most important influencing factors.
Materials and methods. 218 patients were examined before endotracheal anesthesia, 1–2 and 24 hours after extubation. The following laryngopharyngeal complaints were recorded: hoarseness, vocal fatigue, globus pharyngeus, throat pain and throat clearing. These factors were also assessed in relation to endotracheal intubation parameters: endotracheal tube size, cuff volume and pressure, number of intubation attempts, length of anesthesia, experience of anesthesiologist and additional parameters: smoking, allergy, GERD symptoms, laryngitis and singing skills subject to gender.
Results. All laryngopharyngeal symptoms increased significantly in 2 hours after extubation and remained increased after 24 hours in both male and female groups. In 1–2 hours after extubation, females complained of throat pain more than males (61.3 vs. 42.9%; p = 0,014). The following significant relations were found 1–2 hours after extubation: between throat pain and length of anesthesia, globus pharyngeus and tube size and cuff volume in the male group; between globus pharyngeus, vocal fatigue and smoking, throat clearing and cuff volume in the female group. After 24 hours, the relation was noticed between vocal fatigue and cuff volume and number of intubation attempts, globus pharyngeus and length of anesthesia, between hoarseness and number of intubation attempts and between throat pain and singing skills in the male group. Some relation between throat clearing and cuff volume remained for 24 hours after extubation, smoking had influence on hoarseness and vocal fatigue in the female group.
Conclusions. Laryngopharyngeal symptoms remain an important cause of discomfort for 24 hours after extubation. Females complain of laryngeal and pharyngeal symptoms more than males and throat pain following extubation is also more frequent in females. The most important parameters of short-term endotracheal intubation that influence laryngopharyngeal complaints are as follows: cuff volume, length of anesthesia and number of intubation attempts that affect males more than females. Smoking affects females more, though singing skills are more significant in the male group.
Recurrence of esophageal varices after endoscopic band ligation: single centre experience
Authors: MAŠALAITĖ Laura , VALANTINAS Jonas , STANAITIS Juozas
Published: July 2012

Background and objective. Endoscopic band ligation is the main endoscopic treatment for esophageal varices, but the main problem after endoscopic treatment is variceal recurrence. The aim of this study was to evaluate and determine the esophageal varices recurrence rate and the time interval after endoscopic band ligation and to investigate possible risk factors affecting recurrence.
Material and methods. The retrospective analysis of endoscopic band ligation procedures, performed in Vilnius University Hospital Santariskiu Clinics during the period 2006–2010, was made. 133 endoscopic band ligation procedures were included in the study.
Results. After endoscopic band ligation, esophageal varices recurred in 45% of cases. The early recurrence of esophageal varices occurred in 46.7% of cases. Extrahepatic portal hypertension and a greater size of varices lead to the statistically significant early recurrence of esophageal varices after endoscopic band ligation.
Conclusions. Endoscopic band ligation is associated with a high recurrence rate of esophageal varices and half of these cases were indentified as early variceal recurrence.