bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of soft tissue thickness on profile appearance in persons with class III malocclusion
Authors: Stosic Maja , Janosevic Mirjana , Buric Mirjana , Filipovic Gordana
Published: January 2011

The aim of the research was to determine the characteristics of soft tissue
in persons with class III malocclusion, through the analysis of profile
X-rays. The research was carried out on fifty profile X-rays of people with
class III malocclusion (eighteen males and thirty two females, from the age
of fifteen to twenty five). Linear and angular parameters were analyzed by
Burston?s and Steiner?s method. The increased soft tissue thickness in
subspinal region in both genders had a partial compensatory effect. The
reduced upper and lower lip thickness in females created more harmonious
profile in relation to males, in whom lip thickness shows great individual
variations. The increased soft tissue thickness in supramental region in
males emphasized the abnormality in relation to females.
The ways of amniotic fluid sampling and its influence on lamellar body count
Authors: Visnjevac Jovana , Novakov-Mikic Aleksandra , Nikolic Aleksandra
Published: January 2011

Even though artificial surfactant is now available, respiratory distress
syndrome still remains a serious problem in neonatology. Prenatal analysis of
the amniotic fluid can provide data giving insight into the fetal lung
maturity, which enables planning of the further outcome of high-risk
pregnancies. Surfactant prevents atelectasis by forming a layer rich in
phospholipids between the air and liquid phase in alveoli thus leading to
increased surface tension in them, which is a precondition for a good lung
function after birth. Lamellar bodies are a form of stored surfactant, and
their count in the amniotic fluid can be determined simply by a standard
hematology analyzer. The method of determining lamellar body count has found
an important place in prenatal diagnostics and is recommended as an initial
method of a ?cascade? procedure of testing fetal lung maturity. However,
considering the importance of procedure of sample collection, storage and
centrifugation, which can significantly affect the results obtained for the
lung maturity, the amniotic fluid samples must be absolutely free of
contamination with blood, meconium, mucus, bacteria and leucocytes.
Importation and spread of pandemic influenza virus a(H1N1) in Autonomous Province of vojvodina in preepidemic period
Authors: Ristic Mioljub , Seguljev Zorica , Nedeljkovic Jasminka , Ilic Svetlana , Injac Dragica , Djekic Jelena
Published: January 2011

Introduction. Influenza is the most frequently reported communicable disease,
having epidemic and pandemic potential. The first influenza pandemic in this
century started in Mexico and spread quickly throughout the world. This paper
analyses importation of pandemic influenza cases and local transmission among
population in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina. Material and methods.
According to the WHO guidelines and national recommendations, the influenza
surveillance activities were conducted in Vojvodina in order to detect,
isolate and treat affected international travelers and their close contacts.
Patients whose pandemic influenza infection was laboratory confirmed were
classified as confirmed cases, while those with symptoms who were
epidemiologically linked with confirmed cases were classified as probable
cases. Results. During the period from the 24th of June to 17th of August
2009, 123 pandemic influenza cases were recorded in Vojvodina. Infection was
imported through international travelers and our citizens coming from
countries affected by influenza outbreaks. Majority of cases had mild
clinical picture. Most frequently reported symptoms were high fever (above
38oC) (85.6%), and cough (61.6%). Difficulty in breathing was recorded in 20
(16.0%) cases, while pneumonia developed in 4 (3.2%) cases but none of the
cases required mechanical ventilation. Conclusion. The imported cases of
pandemic influenza in the pre-epidemic period led to limited local
transmission in general population and caused a small outbreak among visitors
of International music festival called EXIT.
Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome
Authors: Gvozdenovic Ljiljana , Pasternak Janko , Milovanovic Stanislav , Ivanov Dejan , Milic Sasa
Published: January 2011

Introduction. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome is now recognized as a
toxin-mediated, multisystem illness. It is characterized by an early onset of
shock with multiorgan failure and continues to be associated with high
morbidity and mortality, caused by group A Streptococcus pyogenes. The
symptoms for staphylococcal and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome are
similar. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome was not well described until
1993, when children who had suffered from varicella presented roughly 2-4
weeks later with a clinical syndrome highly suggestive of toxic shock
syndrome. Characteristics, complications and therapy. It is characterized by
a sudden onset of fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and rash.
It can rapidly progress to severe and intractable hypotension and multisystem
dysfunction. Almost every organ system can be involved. Complications of
streptococcal toxic shock syndrome may include kidney failure, liver failure
and even death. Crystalloids and inotropic agents are used to treat the
hypovolemic shock aggressively, with close monitoring of the patient?s mean
arterial pressure and central venous pressure. An immediate and aggressive
management of hypovolemic shock is essential in streptococcal toxic shock
syndrome. Targeted antibiotics are indicated; penicillin or a betalactam
antibiotic is used for treating group A streptococci, and clindamycin has
emerged as a key portion of the standard treatment.
Ovarian metastasis in patient with endometrial carcinoma or synchronous tumors: Presentation of a case
Authors: Djordjevic Momcilo , Mitrovic Slobodanka , Jovanovic Bozidar , Djordjevic Gordana
Published: January 2011

Introduction. Synchronous, independent tumors are two or more tumors which
appear independently from each other at the same moment. Metastatic tumors
originate by disseminating malignant cells from other organs. Synchronous,
primary malignities make 1.7% of all genitals malignities. Joined endometrial
and ovarian carcinomas are found in 5% of cases. Presentation of a case. In
this research, we present the case of an obese woman, 37 years old, who had
associated endometrial tumors of uterus and ovary, without malign cells in
peritoneal dilution, positive estrogen, negative progestine and focal
expression of p53 receptors present in about 10-15% tumor cells. Discussion.
This patient underwent the classic hysterectomy with reciprocal adnexectomy.
After the operation, complete radial and hemiotheraphy was performed. The
patient was without recurrence of the disease 30 months after the operation.
The differentiation of primary independent synchronous and metastatic tumors
is important not only for the prognosis, but also for the choice of the
therapy. Conclusion. There are no reliable clinical and histological criteria
for diagnoses. Most cases are most frequently regarded as higher stages.
Response of Sorghum halepense L. (Pers.) populations to nicosulfuron, rimsulfuron and prosulfuron+primsulfuron-methyl
Authors: Bozic Dragana , Elezovic Ibrahim , Saric Marija , Onc-Jovanovic Eleonora , Vrbnicanin Sava
Published: January 2011

The effects of herbicides nicosulfuron, rimsulfuron and
prosulfuron+primsulfuronmethyl on eight populations of Sorghum halepense L.
(Pers.) under controlled conditions were investigated. The herbicides were
applied at different rates (0x; 0,5x; 1x; 1,5x; 2x; 3x recommended
application rate for field use) when plants reached the height of 20-25 cm.
The parameters measured seven days after treatment were leaf surface and
fresh and dry mass of plants; the obtained results were then used for ED50
calculations. The response of Sorghum halepense populations to nicosulfuron,
rimsulfuron and prosulfuron+primsulfuron-methyl varied from population to
population, and depending on the applied rate and the measured parameter.
Resistance development was not observed in any of the populations that
survived herbicide treatment before seed collecting. Only the population P2
showed somewhat decreased susceptibility to nicosulfuron, which can be
regarded as an early stage of resistance development.
Pediatric femur fractures, epidemiology and treatment
Authors: Petkovic Lazar , Djan Igor , Gajdobranski Djordje , Maric Dusan , Petkovic Mirjana
Published: January 2011

Background/Aim. Femur fractures in children most often occur as a consequence
of traffic accidents, during play and sport activities, and due to different
pathological states. Diagnosis is rather simple and it includes physical and
radiographycal examination. Femur fractures treatment in children can be
operative and unoperative, depending on several facts: age, localisation and
type of fracture, joint injuries of soft tissues, the presence of other
injuries (in polytrauma), economical and social aspects, ect. The aim of this
study was to present epidemiological characteristics of pediatric femur
fractures, that is in the stage of development, including a special analysis
of the used treatment techniques, as well as the comparison of the obtained
data with those from the literature. Methods. The evaluation included
following parameters: age, gender, cause, localisation and type of femur
fracture, applied treatment and hospitalisation duration. Results. Among the
presented 143 patients with femur fracture, 109 were boys and 34 were girls
(3.2 : 1 ratio; p = 0.0001). Average age for both genders was 8.6 years, and
no difference between boys and girls were found for the age (p = 0.758). In
total, the most common fracture was diaphyseal fracture of femur in 93
(65.03%) patients. The second was proximal fracture in 30 (20.98%) patients,
and the last distal fracture of the femur in 20 (13.99%) patients (p =
0.0001). Three main causes of femur fracture can be distinguished: during
play and sport activities in 67 (46.8%) children, in traffic accidents in 64
(44.8%) children, and pathological fractures in 12 (8.4%) children.
Inoperative treatment was applied in 82 (57.3%) patients, and operative one
in 61 (42.7%) patients. The most common tretament was traction, in 71 (49.6%)
patients, followed by immobilization by hip spica cast mostly in young
children. Intramedullar elastic nailing was applied in 16 (11.2%) cases, and
intramedullar rigid nailing (K?ntscher) in 19 (13.3%) cases. Significantlly
longer hospitalization period was detected after traction (21 days) comparing
to other ways of treatment, mainly operative or hip spica cast (5 to 10
days). Conclusion. In young children the standard treatment was hip spica
cast after traction. Intramedullar elastic nailing is a modern trend accepted
as standard in our approach to femur fracture treatment in children.
In vitro study of vitamins B1, B2 and B6 adsorption on zeolite
Authors: Basic Zorica , Kilibarda Vesna , Dobric Silva , Resanovic Radmila
Published: January 2011

Background/Aim. Zeolites are the hydratised alumosilicates of alcali and
earthalcali cations, which have a long three-dimensional crystal structure.
Preparations on the basis of zeolites are used for adsorption of organic and
nonorganic toxic substances and they, also, find more and more use in
veterinary and human medicine and pharmacy. The aim of this study was to
evaluate the possibilities of zeolite to adsorb vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in
acid and neutral solutions, as well as the characteristics of the process
(saturability, reversibility and competitivness). Methods. The specific and
sensitive HPLC method with fluorescent detector was used for determination of
vitamins B1, B2 and B6. Analyte separation and detection were carried out by
applying the reverse-phase method on column C18. An in vitro experiment was
done by testing the influence of pH value (2 and 7), concentration of vitamin
solution (1, 2 and 5 mg/L), the lenght of contact with zeolite (10-180 min)
and cation competitiveness on the exchange capacity, which is achieved by
media and zeolite contact, as well as a possible vitamins desorption through
changing pH value of the solution at 37?C. Jon competitiveness was examined
by adding commercial feed mixture (grower) with a defined content of the
examined vitamines in zeolite solutions the pH = 2 and pH = 7. Results.
Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 were stable in both pH=2 and pH = 7 solutions at 37?C,
in the defined time intervals. In acid solution concentrations of vitamins
significantly declined in the first 10 min, with no significant decline in
further 30 min for all the three concentrations testch. In neutral solution,
after the addition of 1% zeolite, decrease in vitamins concentrations was
slightly lower than in acid solution, but also significant in the first 10
min of the contact with zeolite. It was found that zeolite, which adsorbed
vitamins in acid solution, transferred in the neutral one released a
significant quantity of adsorbed vitamins after 30 min of extraction on 37?C.
Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 from a commercial feed mixture in pH = 2 solution, at
37?C, were significantly adsorbed on zeolite after 30 min of the contact
(21.87%, 20.15% and 4.53%, respectively), while in neutral solution there was
no statistically significant adsorption. Conclusion. Zeolite significantly
adsorbs vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in acid and neutral solutions at 37?C,
already in the first 10 min of the contact. Adsorption was irreversible, but
partly reversible after changing pH from acid to neutral. This is a
significant ions competition for adsorption on zeolite in neutral solution,
so no statistically significant vitamins B1, B2 and B6 adsorption occurs,
while in acid solution competition is less, thus zeolite significanthy
adsorbs these vitamins, although in less degree than in conditions with no
concurrent ions.
Assessment of health care quality in the tertiary level pediatric hospitals in Serbia
Authors: Kuburovic Nina , Djuricic Slavisa , Neskovic Andjelija , Dedic Velimir , Kuburovic Vladimir
Published: January 2011

Background/Aim. It is necessary to improve the quality of health care for
children. Assessment data would provide new insights into better treatment
outcomes. The aim of this descriptive study was to estimate and to compare
applied quality indicators in five pediatric inpatient tertiary level
institutions in Serbia during the period from January 1st to December 31st
2008. Methods. Quality data and indicators were collected in the Institute
for Public Health of Serbia ?Dr. Milan Jovanovic Batut?. Descriptive
statistics and chisquare test were used for data analysis. Results. The
average length of stay (ALOS) in pediatric departments was 7.51 ? 1.30 days
(5.88-8.91 days). In the same period, ALOS in pediatric surgery departments
was 5.85 ? 1.50 days (3.58-7.57 days). The average number of nurses per
occupied bed was 0.76 ? 0.20 and 1.09 ? 0.36 in pediatric and in pediatric
surgery departments, respectively. The number of operated patients per
surgeon was in the range 51.0-160.5. The annual case fatality rate in
pediatric departments was estimated to 0.72% ? 0.20%, whereas in pediatric
surgery departments it was 0.34% ? 0.25%. The autopsy rate was estimated to
0.00%-63.16% in pediatric departments, and 37.14%-80.00% in pediatric
surgery departments. There was statistically significant difference among the
five hospitals regarding the following indicators of quality of work: total
annual mortality rate of patients, autopsy rate, number of rate of patients,
autopsy rate, number of patients referred to other institutions, both in
pediatric and pediatric surgery departments. Conclusion. There is a
significant difference among the five hospitals regarding indicators of
quality of work. Obligatory set of quality indicators on the basis of
legislative acts are the indicators of general quality of work in hospital.
It is necessary to establish specific pediatric quality indicators and to
define national standards related to these indicators.
Low power laser in the treatment of the acute low back pain
Authors: Mandic Milan , Rancic Natasa
Published: January 2011

Beckground/Aim. Acute low back pain (ALBP) is one of the most frequent
painful conditions in the human population. The objective of the paper was to
compare the efficacy of the low power laser (LPL) in the pain and the
muscular spasm reduction with conservative methods of physical medicine.
Method. The prospective cohort study was done. The study involved 70
patients, both men and women, from 25 to 64 years of age with the diagnosis
of ALBP. Two groups were formed. There were 40 patients in the first group
and they were treated with the LPL with frequency of 73 Hz. The second group
was the control one and it consisted of 30 patients who were treated with
conservative methods of physical medicine (electrotherapy: diadynamic
currents CP ? 3 and CP ? 3, interferent currents - 90 Hz for 15 min;
electrophoresis with novocaine). The ALBP were diagnosed by clinical
examination and by the nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI). The low
power laser - Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) was used. The laser sonde consisted of
4 laser diodes, each powered of 15 mW, wavelength 904 nm and with frequency
73Hz. The total period of time for each treatment was 10 minutes and the
total dose per treatment was 15 J. The intensity of acute low back pain was
assessed by Roland?s scale. The degree of the spasm was assessed in the
relaxed position and during movements. Results. The average score in the
first group before the onset of rehabilitation was 3.3 ? 1.1 (Me = 3.0), and
in the control group was 3.43 ? 0.89 (Me = 3.0). After five treatments in
patients who were treated with LPL the average score in Roland?s scale was
decreased (1.12 ? 1.3, Me = 2.0) and in the control group there were no
changes. After 10 treatments with the LPL the analgesic effect was obtained
in 82.5% of patients from the first group and in 20% of patients in the
control group. The analgesic effect in patients of the first group was
obtained after 7.5 ? 2.1 treatments and in the second group after 17.9 ? 3.2
treatments. The difference was statistically significant (t = 15.652173, p <
0.001). The spasm disappeared in 92.5% of patients in the first group and in
20% of patients in the control group after 7.02 ?2.2 and 17.9 ? 3.2
treatments respectively. The difference was statistically significant (t =
15.652173, p < 0.001). Conclusion. The pain and spasm reduction were obtained
in the greater number of patients by usage of the LPL than by usage of
conservative methods of physical medicine.
Isolation and Characterization of the First Microsatellite Markers for the Endangered Relict Mussel Hypanis colorata (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Cardiidae)
Authors: Popa Oana Paula , Iorgu Elena Iulia , Krapal Ana Maria , Kelemen Beatrice Simona , Murariu Dumitru , Popa Luis Ovidiu
Published: January 2011

Hypanis colorata (Eichwald, 1829) (Cardiidae: Lymnocardiinae) is a bivalve relict species with a Ponto-Caspian distribution and is under strict protection in Romania, according to national regulations. While the species is depressed in the western Black Sea lagoons from Romania and Ukraine, it is also a successful invader in the middle Dniepr and Volga regions. Establishing a conservation strategy for this species or studying its invasion process requires knowledge about the genetic structure of the species populations. We have isolated and characterized nine polymorphic microsatellite markers in H. colorata. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 28 and the observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.613 to 1.000. The microsatellites developed in the present study are highly polymorphic and they should be useful for the assessment of genetic variation within this species.
Biosurfactants for Microbubble Preparation and Application
Authors: Xu Qingyi , Nakajima Mitsutoshi , Liu Zengshe , Shiina Takeo
Published: January 2011

Biosurfactants can be classified by their chemical composition and their origin. This review briefly describes various classes of biosurfactants based on their origin and introduces a few of the most widely used biosurfactants. The current status and future trends in biosurfactant production are discussed, with an emphasis on those derived from plants. Following a brief introduction of the properties of microbubbles, recent progress in the application of microbubble technology to molecular imaging, wastewater treatment, and aerobic fermentation are presented. Several studies on the preparation, characterization and applications of biosurfactant-based microbubbles are reviewed.
Information Pluralism and Some Informative Modes of Ignorance
Authors: Patokorpi Erkki
Published: January 2011

In this paper information concepts will be roughly divided into two categories: The cybernetic and the semiotic-pragmatic. They are further divided into three and four subcategories, respectively. The cybernetic conception of information, which comprises both the mathematical-statistic and the logical-semantic approaches, misses some aspects of information and knowing, that are important in economics and technology studies, among others. The semiotic-pragmatic approach presumes the existence of several modes of being of information, as well as connects certainty and ambiguity to information in a different way from how the cybernetic approach does. These two general approaches to information and knowing are strikingly different, especially in their analysis of ignorance or incomplete knowledge. None of the cybernetic conceptions, and only some conceptions within the semiotic-pragmatic approach, can vindicate the elusive intuition of the potential positive role of ignorance. This comparative, philosophical discussion of the modes of ignorance may be taken as a challenge for cybernetics and computational philosophy to make better sense of incomplete knowledge.
Controlling Interfacial Adhesion of Self-Assembled Polypeptide Fibrils for Novel Nanoelectromechanical System (NEMS) Applications
Authors: Rana Narender , Kossow Christopher , Eisenbraun Eric T. , Geer Robert E. , Kaloyeros Alain E.
Published: January 2011

The relative adhesion of two genetically engineered polypeptides termed as H6-(YEHK)x21-H6 and C6-(YEHK)X21-H6 has been investigated following growth and self-assembly on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), SiO2, Ni, and Au substrates to study covalent surface attachment via histidine (H) and cysteine (C) groups incorporated in the polypeptides. Both polypeptides formed predominantly bilayer fibrils upon deposition, in agreement with previous studies. The relative adhesion of polypeptide fibrils to the substrate, as well as intra-fibril cohesion, was examined via a forced-scanning method employing contact mode atomic force microscopy (AFM). H6-(YEHK)x21-H6 polypeptide fibrils were observed to detach from Ni, Au, SiO2, and HOPG substrates at normal tip forces of 106 ± 10 nN, 21 ± 3 nN, 22 ± 3 nN, and 3 ± 1 nN, respectively. C6-(YEHK)x21-H6 polypeptide fibrils were seen to detach from Au substrates at a normal spring force of 90 ± 10 nN. It is concluded that the H6-(YEHK)x21-H6 and C6-(YEHK)x21-H6 polypeptide fibrils are covalently attached to, respectively, Ni and Au substrates, which has important implications for the use of these materials for NEMS fabrication. The structural stability of deposited polypeptide fibrils was also evaluated by using normal tip forces less than those required for fibril detachment. H6-(YEHK)x21-H6 polypeptide fibrils on Ni substrates were the most structurally stable compared to C6-(YEHK)x21-H6 polypeptide fibrils on Au substrates. Controlled delayering of bilayer fibrils was also detected for sub-detachment normal forces.
Chemistry of the Enaminone of 1-Acetylnaphthalene under Microwave Irradiation Using Chitosan as a Green Catalyst
Authors: Hassaneen Huwaida M. E.
Published: January 2011

Enaminone 1 was reacted with hydrazonoyl halides 2a-d to yield 3,4-disubstituted pyrazoles 6a-d. Coupling with arenediazonium chlorides afforded the 2-(arylhydrazono)-3-(1-naphthalenyl)-3-oxopropionaldehydes 13a-c. Compounds 13 could be utilized for the synthesis of a variety of arylpyrazoles, arylazolopyrimidines, and pyridazinones via reaction with hydrazines, aminoazoles, and active methylene derivatives, respectively. A comparative study of aforementioned reactions was carried out with chitosan as a basic ecofriendly catalyst under conventional heating as well as under pressurized microwave irradiation conditions.
RFID Label Tag Design for Metallic Surface Environments
Authors: Park Chong Ryol , Eom Ki Hwan
Published: January 2011

This paper describes a metal mount RFID tag that works reliably on metallic surfaces. The method proposes the use of commercial label type RFID tags with 2.5 mm thick Styrofoam103.7 with a relative permittivity of 1.03 attached on the back of the tag. In order to verify the performance of the proposed method, we performed experiments on an electric transformer supply chain system. The experimental results showed that the proposed tags can communicate with readers from a distance of 2 m. The recognition rates are comparable to those of commercial metallic mountable tags.
Un autre regard sur le gisement du boulevard périphérique nord de Lyon (Rhône) au Néolithique et à l’âge du Bronze
Authors: Vital Joël , Bouby Laurent , Jallet Frédéric , Rey Pierre-Jérome
Published: January 2011

Résumé. Nous proposons dans cette synthèse des conclusions alternatives relatives à la chronologie et aux formes architecturales découvertes sur le site du boulevard périphérique nord de Lyon. Quatre surfaces archéologiques, du Néolithique moyen et final, du Bronze ancien et final 1, sont mises en évidence. L’architecture met en oeuvre un modèle, à vocation familiale restreinte probable, comprenant un bâtiment principal d’habitation et un bâtiment secondaire de stockage. Le Néolithique moyen bourguignon ne livre qu’un de ces ensembles. Seule l’occupation campaniforme déroge à ce schéma, avec un seul édifice. Au Bronze ancien, le stockage en milieu souterrain semble pour partie être à l’origine de la constitution d’une agglomération sur un plan préétabli et selon une trame symbolique dont le sens nous échappe. Cette situation forme un écho aux observations de même nature réalisées en moyenne vallée du Rhône. Nous constatons à nouveau l’importance de l’économie agricole pour les populations du début de l’âge du Bronze dans l’axe rhodanien, en une sorte «d’optimum néolithique». Les formes architecturales s’opposent aux fermes-étables qui constituent un modèle courant au nord des Alpes. Au Bronze final, comme à la période précédente, trois ensembles architecturaux sont identifiés, mais semblent bénéficier alors d’une plus grande autonomie spatiale d’après la répartition et la nature des clôtures. La fonction de cette agglomération semble ne plus tendre principalement vers une concentration des produits de l’agriculture.
La tombe de Coste Rouge à Beaufort (Hérault) et la question des tombes à dalles néolithiques dans le nord-est des Pyrénées
Authors: Vaquer Jean , Duday Henri , Gandelin Muriel , Hérouin Stéphane , Tresset Anne
Published: January 2011

Abstract. The Coste Rouge tomb is a sub-megalithic funerary structure in a pit of a type known in the Middle Neolithic (Pyrenean group of Solsona or peri-Alpine group of Chamblandes), Chalcholithic and Early Bronze Age. Though damaged by ploughing, we were able to restore its architecture and observe that the last slab put in place was not the cover, as in the case of coffin or cist tombs, but that of the small south-east side, and that this latter was preceded by a space in the pit of the “chamber”. This structure contained the remains of a child laid on its back. It was wearing an ornament with two rows of Dentalium shells around its left shoulder and a set of foliate pendants shaped from bone plaques was found near its head. It was also accompanied by two bladelets in Bedoulan blonde flint from the Vaucluse region, two winged and stemmed points, and four bone awls grouped near the left hand. The architecture of the grave goods reveals typological affinities with certain Catalonian funerary ensembles from the Solsona region, suggesting an attribution to the end of the Middle Neolithic (Languedoc Chassean period), which has been confirmed by a radiocarbon date. This tomb yielded a deposit of domestic (bovid, caprids, canid) and wild (bear, canid) faunal remains that are intimately related to the cadaver deposit and could represent amulets or constitute a symbolic representation of an accompanying bestiary. Translation: Magen O’Farrell
Comparison of Two Storage Methods for the Analysis of Cholinesterase Activities in Food Animals
Authors: Askar Kasim Abass , Kudi A. Caleb , Moody A. John
Published: January 2011

Cholinesterases (ChE) are specialized carboxylic ester hydrolases that catalyse the hydrolysis of choline esters. They are classified into either acetylcholinesterase (AChE) or butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Determination of ChE in the tissues is the appropriate tool for the diagnosis of organophosphorus and carbamate exposures. In general, a significant inhibition was seen in both AChE and BChE activities after 6 months of freezing at −80°C and after 3 months of freezing at −20°C. Linear regression of mean AChE and BChE was observed in all individual samples during the months of the two freezing methods. Bland and Altman plot of the ratios of the two freezing methods have showen the mean difference between the two freezing methods to be 8.8, and SD was 144.7 and −127.6 for upper and lower limits, respectively, for liver, while in muscle the mean difference was 1.5 and SD was 32.5 and −28.9 for upper and lower limits, respectively.
Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma as a Bridge to Liver Transplantation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Bouchard-Fortier Antoine , Lapointe Réal , Perreault Pierre , Bouchard Louis , Pomier-Layrargues Gilles
Published: January 2011

Background. Transcatheter arterial lipiodol chemoembolization (TACE) can be used in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma to avoid tumor progression before transplantation.Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TACE used as a bridge to liver transplantation.Methods. TACE was performed in 30 cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Milan criteria were used to select patients for transplant. Patients had a good or moderately impaired liver function, no arterioportal fistulae, and a good portal perfusion.Results. 48 TACE were performed in 30 patients. Before transplantation, 4 patients were dropped off the list due to tumor extension or liver failure. Complete necrosis of the tumor was observed in 11 patients and partial necrosis in 15 patients. After transplantation, 6 patients died and tumor recurrence was observed in 5 patients with a tumor beyond Milan criteria or no response to TACE.Conclusion. TACE is useful as a bridge to liver transplantation in a selected group of cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. A combined therapeutic approach before surgery might improve the prognosis in these patients.
In situ measurements of isoprene and monoterpenes within a South-East Asian tropical rainforest
Authors: Jones C. E. , Hopkins J. R. , Lewis A. C.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) emitted from tropical rainforests comprise a substantial fraction of global atmospheric VOC emissions, however there are only relatively limited measurements of these species in tropical rainforest regions. We present observations of isoprene, α-pinene, camphene, Δ-3-carene, γ-terpinene and limonene, and oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) of biogenic origin such as methacrolein, in ambient air above a~tropical rainforest in Malaysian Borneo. Daytime composition was dominated by isoprene, with an average mixing ratio of the order of ~1 ppb. γ-terpinene, limonene and camphene were the most abundant monoterpenes, with average daytime mixing ratios of 102, 71 and 66 ppt, respectively, and with an average monoterpene to isoprene ratio of 0.3 during sunlight hours, compared to 2.0 at night. Limonene and camphene abundances were seen to be related to both temperature and light conditions. In contrast, γ-terpinene emission occurred into the late afternoon/evening, under relatively low temperature and light conditions. We observe good agreement between surface and aircraft measurements of boundary layer isoprene and methacrolein above the natural rainforest, suggesting that the ground-level observations are broadly representative of isoprene emissions from this region.
Carbonate system buffering in the water masses of the Southwest Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean during February–March 2008
Authors: González-Dávila M. , Santana-Casiano J. M. , Fine R. A. , Happell J. , Delille B. , Speich S.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Carbonate system variables were measured in the South Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean along a transect from South Africa to the southern limit of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) in February–March 2008. Eddies detach from retroflection of the Agulhas Current located north of the Subantarctic Front (SAF). The eddies increase the gradients observed at the fronts so that minima in fCO2 and maxima in pH in situ on either side of the frontal zone are observed, while within the frontal zone fCO2 reached maximum values and pH in situ was a minimum. Mixing at the frontal zones, in particular where cyclonic rings were located, brought up CO2-rich water (low pH and high nutrient) that spread out the fronts where recent biological production favored by the nutrient input increases the pH in situ and decreases the fCO2 levels. Vertical distributions of water masses were described by their carbonate system properties and their relationship to CFC concentrations. Upper Circumpolar Deep Water (UCDW) and Lower Circumpolar Deep Water (LCDW) had pHT,25 values of 7.56 and 7.61, respectively. UCDW also had higher concentrations of CFC-12 (>0.2 pmol kg−1) as compared to deeper waters, revealing the mixing with recently ventilated waters. Calcite and aragonite saturation states (Ω) were also affected by the presence of these two water masses with high carbonate concentration. Ωarag = 1 was observed at 1000 m in the subtropical area and north of the SAF. At the position of the Polar front and under the influence of UCDW and LCDW Ωarag = 1 deepen from 600 m to 1500 m at 50.37° S, and it reaches to 700 m south of 57.5° S. High latitudes are the most sensitive areas under future anthropogenic carbon increase. Buffer coefficients related to changes in [CO2], [H+] and Ω with changes in CT and AT showed the minimum values are found in the Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW), and UCDW layers. These coefficients suggest that a small increase in CT will sharply decrease the pH and the carbonate saturation states. Here we present data that are used to suggest that south of 55° S by the year 2045 surface water will be undersaturated in aragonite.
Relative chronology in high-grade crystalline terrain of the Eastern Ghats, India: new insights
Authors: Bhattacharya S. , Kar R. , Saw A. K. , Das P.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. The two major lithology or gneiss components in the polycyclic granulite terrain of the Eastern Ghats, India, are the supracrustal rocks, commonly described as khondalites, and the charnockite-gneiss. Many of the workers considered the khondalites as the oldest component with unknown basement and the charnockite-protoliths as intrusive into the khondalites. However, geochronological data do not corroborate the aforesaid relations. The field relations of the hornblende- mafic granulite with the two gneiss components together with geocronological data indicate that khondalite sediments were deposited on older mafic crustal rocks. We propose a different scenario: Mafic basement and supracrustal rocks were subsequently deformed and metamorphosed together at high to ultra-high temperatures – partial melting of mafic rocks producing the charnockitic melt; and partial melting of pelitic sediments producing the peraluminous granitoids. This is compatible with all the geochronological data as well as the petrogenetic model of partial melting for the charnockitic rocks in the Eastern Ghats Belt.
Frequent Accesses to Totally Implanted Vascular Ports in Pediatric Oncology Patients are Associated with Higher Infection Rates
Authors: Gapany Christophe , Tercier Stéphane , Diezi Manuel , Clement Chantal , Lemay Katy , Joseph Jean-Marc
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Totally implanted vascular (TIVA) ports are used in children for repeated blood samples or intravenous treatments. We have recently published a prospective evaluation of surgical incidents and early complications associated with these devices. This work is the final part of the same study, assessing late complications over a follow-up of 2 yrs.

Methods

From January 2006 to January 2008, children older than 1 yr of age with a diagnosis of solid or blood cell malignancy were included. Insertion technique and care of the device were standardized. Every manipulation was prospectively recorded by specialized nurses. Obstruction was documented clinically. When bacteremia was suspected, routine central and peripheral blood cultures were drawn.

Results

Forty-five consecutive patients were enrolled in the study. Mean age at the time of the procedure was 8.5 yrs. There was no catheter-related infection within the first 4 weeks post-surgery. No device had to be removed because of infection or obstruction during follow-up. Frequent accesses to the port (≥3 per day over a 10–day period) were associated with an 8–fold risk of infection.

Conclusion

Insertion and use of TIVA devices were frequently associated with complications. No device had to be removed because of infection or obstruction over the follow-up period, although no prophylactic antibiotic agent was used. Restrictive use of antibiotics may prevent opportunistic infection. Frequent access to the device was significantly associated with line infection (odds ratio=8.43). No risk factor was identified for obstruction which occurred at a rate of 5.3 per 10,000 accesses.
Oscillatory Neural Networks
Authors: Ermentrout G Bard
Published: January 2011

Oscillatory neural networks are found throughout the nervous system. They are responsible for many repetitive motor activities and have recently been shown to play a role in cognition. In spite of the many different mechanisms that underlie neural oscillations, they can be understood using a common mathematical framework. Most neural oscillators arise from slow or delayed negative feedback. The timing of groups of oscillators depends both on the arrangement of their connections and their intrinsic properties and, in particular, on their phase resetting curve. Linear chains of oscillators can produce travelling waves, and these waves control undulatory movement in many animals. There are many mechanisms for generating waves in a chain including asymmetry in coupling, heterogeneities and pacemakers.

Key Concepts:

The mechanisms for the creation of neural oscillators generally involve delayed negative feedback.

Coordination of neural oscillations occurs through coupling that can take many forms including direct electrical coupling and chemical synaptic transmission.

The phase‐response curve of an oscillator shows how perturbations shift to timing and how the oscillator responds to stimuli.

The timing patterns produced by networks of oscillators depend on the nature of the coupling, the internal dynamics of the oscillator and the connectivity pattern.

Metachronal waves, for example, found in the swimming of the lamprey or the leech can be viewed as a chain of coupled neural oscillators item. Cortical oscillations may play a role in attention and enhancement of sensory coding. However, unlike the simple CPGs described in most of this article, the role of rhythms in higher brain regions remains controversial and is not yet settled.
Regeneration of the Vertebrate Tail
Authors: Ferretti Patrizia
Published: January 2011

Some vertebrates can regenerate their tail, a complex process which involves recruitment and proliferation of progenitor cells from the stump and their subsequent differentiation into the various tissues of the tail. Regeneration is observed only in tails that contain the spinal cord and their ability to regenerate varies among species and with age. Adult tailed amphibians (urodeles) have the most striking regenerative capability and frogs (anurans) can regenerate at larval stages. The spinal cord provides neural progenitor cells from which a new spinal cord will form and in urodeles has a key role in differentiation and morphogenesis of other tail tissues. In anuran tadpoles tail regeneration requires also the presence of the notochord to proceed. Tail regeneration occurs also in lizards, though less faithfully than in urodeles. Recent establishment of effective tracking techniques in amphibians and cloning of their genome is starting to fill the gap in our knowledge of the mechanistic control of tail regeneration.

Key Concepts:

The presence of the nervous system is crucial to tail regeneration.

Caudal autotomy is associated with regenerative ability in lizards but not in urodeles.

Paedomorphosis does not appear to be causally associated with regenerative ability, but continuous growth throughout adulthood correlates with high regenerative capability of all tissue tails including the spinal cord.

Neural progenitor cells for regeneration in amphibians maintain an intermediate phenotype between radial glia and ependyma and are likely to be multipotent.

Cells in regenerating tails largely maintain their identity and position of origin.

Redeployment of certain developmental mechanisms underlies patterning in the regenerating tail.
Regeneration of Mammalian Skin
Authors: Metcalfe Anthony D , Ferguson Mark WJ
Published: January 2011

Regeneration and repair of tissue injury in mammalian skin is an intricate process in which cellular, biochemical and molecular interactions occur. These interactions are the foundations of new therapeutics and approaches designed to facilitate tissue repair. The ultimate goal is to regenerate skin such that the complete structural and functional properties of the wounded area are restored to the levels before injury without a scar. Novel pharmaceutical approaches to scar reduction are under development, with the furthest progressed being avotermin (Juvista; transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFβ3)). In addition, new synthetic biomaterials are constantly being developed that may in future enable some control over the capacity for tissues to regenerate by manipulating stem cells, cell adhesion, growth and differentiation for optimal tissue development. The success of these new approaches to skin regeneration is likely to be underpinned by the manipulation of the mechanisms responsible for wound repair and regeneration.

Key Concepts:

Like other animals such as newts and salamanders, mammals have the ability to regenerate tissues.

Many wound signals probably control more than one cell activity, and regeneration probably constitutes an orchestrated response to a mixture of such signals.

The processes involved during wound healing can trigger an embryonic state in the skin which makes it receptive to regenerative cues and signals.

New approaches to skin regeneration are likely to be underpinned by our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for wound repair.

Skin wounds on early mammalian embryos heal perfectly with no scars, whereas wounds to adult mammals scar.

The growth factor profile in a healing embryonic wound is very different from that in an adult wound.

TGF‐β3 has the ability to elicit a scar‐reducing effect and thus a regenerative healing response in mammalian skin.

Scars can have a significant psychological impact on patients, irrespective of whether or not they are hidden by clothing.

Scarring may no longer be an inevitable consequence of modern injury or surgery; a pharmaceutical approach to the prevention of human scarring is now possible.
Immune System: Evolutionary Pressure of Infectious Agents
Authors: Kasahara Masanori
Published: January 2011

Like all other biologic systems, the immune system emerged as a consequence of evolution. A major force that has driven the evolution of the immune system and shaped its current organisation was the needs to fight pathogens. Key elements of adaptive immunity, such as antigen receptors and major histocompatibility complex molecules, show evidence of selective pressures exerted by pathogens. Conversely, immune responses mounted by the host have also imposed strong selective pressures on pathogens. To escape immune attack from the host, pathogens have developed immune evasion tactics such as antigenic variation (as typically seen in influenza viruses) and the production of immune evasion proteins (as typically seen in herpesviruses). Mutation is the key genetic mechanism underlying the co‐evolution of the immune system and pathogens.

Key Concepts:

The immune system of vertebrates has evolved to fight pathogens.

Pathogens have exerted intense selective pressures on the evolution of the immune system.

Key elements of the adaptive immune system, such as antigen receptors and major histocompatibility complex molecules, show evidence of such selective pressures.

Immune responses by the host exert strong selective pressures on pathogens.

To escape immune attack, pathogens change their antigenicity or produce immune evasion proteins.

Mutation is the key genetic mechanism underlying the co‐evolution of the immune system and pathogens.
Cytochrome P450 (

CYP

) Gene Superfamily
Authors: Nelson David R , Nebert Daniel W
Published: January 2011

Cytochrome P450
, which was first named a ‘pigment in the cell’ having an absorption maximum of 450 nm when reduced and bound to carbon monoxide, was thought to be a single enzyme in the early 1960s. P450 was correlated with drug and steroid metabolism by the late 1960s and recognised eventually to comprise an ancient gene superfamily encoding numerous ubiquitous enzymes that participate in countless essential life processes. More than 12 000 P450 genes are named across all kingdoms of life. Nearly all eukaryotes require sterols in their membranes for essential fluidity and lipid‐packing characteristics.
CYP51
is the sterol
14α‐demethylase
that makes these sterols; thus, it is fundamental to eukaryotic life. Cytochromes P450 evolved novel functions in chordates leading to the origin of steroid hormones. In conjunction with steroid hormone receptors, these novel regulatory pathways distinguish chordates from other animals. Defects in many of the 57 human functional

CYP

genes are involved in some inborn errors of metabolism and other clinical diseases.

Key Concepts:

Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) are haeme‐containing membrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or mitochondrial inner membrane.

Most CYPs require a source of electrons from an electron transfer chain to function: NADPH‐cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) in the ER and ferredoxin (FDX) plus ferredoxin reductase (FDXR) in mitochondria.

CYP functions can be divided into oxidation/reduction of endogenous or exogenous compounds (e.g. drugs, chemicals, pollutants, etc.).

Endogenous P450 substrates are mainly lipids including steroids, lanosterol, bile acids, vitamin D, retinoic acid, eicosanoids, fatty acids and some haeme breakdown products.

In 2010, 13 of 57 human P450s remain as orphans without known substrates.

Cytochromes P450 in humans (and most vertebrates) are divided into 18 CYP gene families based on sequence similarity.

Polymorphism in CYP genes can alter a person's ability to metabolise drugs (poor, intermediate, efficient or ultra‐rapid metaboliser).

CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 are the major drug‐metabolising enzymes in humans. CYP2D6 appears to be the most polymorphic.

Alterations in CYP drug metabolism are often responsible for adverse drug reactions – especially when multiple drugs are taken.

The triazole antifungal drugs ketoconazole, fluconazole and itraconazole target the fungal CYP51 required for fungal sterol biosynthesis. Drug resistance may occur by mutations in this gene.