bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic hormones regulate basal and growth hormone-dependent igf2 mRNA level in primary cultured coho salmon hepatocytes: effects of insulin, glucagon, dexamethasone, and triiodothyronine
Authors: Pierce A L , Dickey J T , Felli L , Swanson P , Dickhoff W W
Published: December 2009

Igf1 and Igf2 stimulate growth and development of vertebrates. Circulating Igfs are produced by the liver. In mammals, Igf1 mediates the postnatal growth-promoting effects of growth hormone (Gh), whereas Igf2 stimulates fetal and placental growth. Hepatic Igf2 production is not regulated by Gh in mammals. Little is known about the regulation of hepatic Igf2 production in nonmammalian vertebrates. We examined the regulation of igf2 mRNA level by metabolic hormones in primary cultured coho salmon hepatocytes. Gh, insulin, the glucocorticoid agonist dexamethasone (Dex), and glucagon increased igf2 mRNA levels, whereas triiodothyronine (T3) decreased igf2 mRNA levels. Gh stimulated igf2 mRNA at physiological concentrations (0.25×10−9 M and above). Insulin strongly enhanced Gh stimulation of igf2 at low physiological concentrations (10−11 M and above), and increased basal igf2 (10−8 M and above). Dex stimulated basal igf2 at concentrations comparable to those of stressed circulating cortisol (10−8 M and above). Glucagon stimulated basal and Gh-stimulated igf2 at supraphysiological concentrations (10−7 M and above), whereas T3 suppressed basal and Gh-stimulated igf2 at the single concentration tested (10−7 M). These results show that igf2 mRNA level is highly regulated in salmon hepatocytes, suggesting that liver-derived Igf2 plays a significant role in salmon growth physiology. The synergistic regulation of igf2 by insulin and Gh in salmon hepatocytes is similar to the regulation of hepatic Igf1 production in mammals.
Improving Matrix Acidizing with Nitrogen and Heat in-Situ Generation
Authors: Khalil Carlos Nagib , Franco Zadson de Almeida
Published: December 2009

In matrix acidizing operations in sandstone formations, special care must be taken to prevent the formation of undesirable precipitates generated by secondary reactions and by the cooling of the sorrounding the wellbore. The fast and thorough recovery of the spent acid fluid is therefore always desirable. Based on studies conducted at the Petrobrás R&D Center, a chemical process that uses a mixture of saturated solutions of nitrogenated salts to simultaneously generate nitrogen and heat was applied.

NH 4 Cl + NaNO 2 → H + N 2 + NaCl + 2H 2 O + HEAT

The intercalated cushions of acid fluid and a mixture of the above solutions results in the in-situ generation of some 60 1 of nitrogen and around 225 kcal of heat per liter of mixture. The increase in formation temperature associated with the generation of gas increases the radial penetration of the acid fluid, at the same time prevents the formation of insoluble compounds and water blockage and in general facilitates the recovery of spent fluid.

This combined method has been successfully used in producing wells located in Northeastern Brazilian oil fields, where significant increases in oil production were recorded, and where in some cases production remained at high levels over a long period of time.
Pressure Drawdown and Buildup Interpretation of a Horizontal Well with Simultaneously Measured Pressure and Sandface Flow Rate
Authors: Maldonado German , Bravo Zulay Coromoto , Prado Luis Roberto , Marmol Alexis
Published: December 2009

Horizontal drilling has been used successfully to increase productivity of wells in several regions of the world. In Venezuela the first horizontal well was drilled by Lagoven, S.A. subsidiary of Petroleums of Venezuela (P.D.V.S.A.) in 1989 in the lake Maracaibo area.

This paper presents this well test design and interpretation. The test consisted of a drawdown followed by a buildup with simultaneous measurements of pressure and sandface flow rates. The acquired downhole flow rates eliminate the need for the assumption of constant wellbore storage and allow a more rigorous analysis.

The formation transient response was analyzed to identify the reservoir flow patterns and its parameters. The techniques used included pressure derivative, convolution, convolution type curves and convolution derivative.

The difficulties encountered while performing the test and actions taken to solve them are also discussed. The existing geological and core-analysis data provided the additional information required to decide which reservoir model to use, and allowed a more conclusive interpretation of the test results.
Relationship between depressive symptoms and cognitive status in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Bugarski Vojislava , Semnic Marija , Slankamenac Petar
Published: December 2009

Depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment frequently occur already in the acute phase of ischemic stroke. The aim of the study was to determine whether there was an association between depressive symptoms and different domains of the cognitive status in acute ischemic stroke patients and to identify cognitive domains that significantly correlated with the presence of depressive symptoms. The study comprised 40 acute ischemic stroke patients (26 men and 14 women) aged 45-78 years, with 8-16 years of education. The presence of depressive symptoms was assessed using the self-reported Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI), whereas the cognitive status was evaluated using a comprehensive neuropsychological testing battery measuring performance in different cognitive domains. The following domains were evaluated: executive function, language, immediate recall, delayed recall, attention, divergent reasoning, and visual-constructive performance in two dimensions. The multiple regression analysis was applied. The results showed a significant association between the presence of depressive symptoms and different cognitive domains. The domain of language was found to be a significant partial predictor of depression, with poorer performance in this domain correlating with a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms.
The role of trait anxiety in induction of state anxiety
Authors: Tovilovic Snezana , Novovic Zdenka , Mihic Ljiljana , Jovanovic Veljko
Published: December 2009

The reported study had the following goals: to determine psychometric characteristics of a new instrument purpoting to measure trait anxiety - AT29, to explore the effectiveness of a mood induction procedure in eliciting state anxiety, and to determine the role of trait anxiety, as measured by AT29, in responding to mood induction. AT29 was administered as a part of a larger test battery to 232 psychology students during a mass testing session. After three weeks, 90 students were randomly selected to participate in the second, experimental phase of the study. These selected participants were randomly assigned to two groups: experimental (mood-induction group) in which participants watched a video clip with a fear-inducing content and control group in which participants watched a neutral video clip of the same duration as the fear-inducing clip. State anxiety was measured in both groups using the STAI-S questionnaire right before and after mood induction. It was demonstrated that there is a significant association between trait anxiety as measured by AT29 and state anxiety obtained at both measurement occasionsbefore and after mood induction. Following fear induction, the experimental group demonstrated higher state anxiety scores. However, the interaction between group membership and trait anxiety was not significant. Potential explanations regarding the lack of effect of trait anxiety on state anxiety in this mood induction experiment were discussed as well as some recommendations for future research. Additionally, the results suggested that AT29 has very good psychometric characteristics: high internal consistency and test-retest reliability (.96 and .86 respectively), as well as good divergent and convergent validity.
Personality traits, age and sex as predictors for self-handicapping tendency
Authors: Colovic Petar , Smederevac Snezana , Mitrovic Dusanka
Published: December 2009

Self-handicapping is one of the strategies people use when facing potential failure. Paper presents new scale for assessing self-handicapping tendency as relatively stable trait, as well as its relations with personality traits, sex and age. Self-handicapping questionnaire and shortened form of Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire were administered to 230 participants of both sexes, age 18 to 59. Confirmatory factor analysis shows that model with four latent dimensions, encompassed by a higher-order latent dimension, fits the data well. Those lower order dimensions correspond to originally created scales: External handicaps in interpersonal area, Internal handicaps in interpersonal area, Internal handicaps in achievement area and External handicaps in achievement area. Results of MANCOVA shows that Neuroticism is predictor of all dimensions of self- handicapping. Impulsive sensation seeking predicts choice of external handicaps in interpersonal area, as well as internal handicaps in achievement area. Latter is predicted also by low Activity. Younger subjects show significantly higher tendency to use internal handicaps, and men in general show more self-handicapping tendency than women, except in choosing internal handicaps in achievement area, where sex shows no significant effect.
Unrealistic optimism and decision making
Authors: Bozovic Bojana , Gvozdenovic Vasilije
Published: December 2009

One of the leading descriptive theories of decision-making under risk, Tversky & Kahneman's Prospect theory, reveals that normative explanation of decisionmaking, based only on principle of maximizing outcomes expected utility, is unsustainable. It also underlines the effect of alternative factors on decision-making. Framing effect relates to an influence that verbal formulation of outcomes has on choosing between certain and risky outcomes; in negative frame people tend to be risk seeking, whereas in positive frame people express risk averse tendencies. Individual decisions are not based on objective probabilities of outcomes, but on subjective probabilities that depend on outcome desirability. Unrealistically pessimistic subjects assign lower probabilities (than the group average) to the desired outcomes, while unrealistically optimistic subjects assign higher probabilities (than the group average) to the desired outcomes. Experiment was conducted in order to test the presumption that there's a relation between unrealistic optimism and decision-making under risk. We expected optimists to be risk seeking, and pessimist to be risk averse. We also expected such cognitive tendencies, if they should become manifest, to be framing effect resistant. Unrealistic optimism scale was applied, followed by the questionnaire composed of tasks of decision-making under risk. Results within the whole sample, and results of afterwards extracted groups of pessimists and optimists both revealed dominant risk seeking tendency that is resistant to the influence of subjective probabilities as well as to the influence of frame in which the outcome is presented.
Health-related quality of life in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Dotlic Jelena , Marinkovic Jelena
Published: December 2009

Introduction The need for assessing the quality of life in chronic rhinosinusitis is emphasized by the medical, social and economic importance of this pathological condition. Questionnaires have been employed in majority of studies while there are no available data that Q method has been used for quality of life research in chronic rhinosinusitis up to the present. Objective The aim of this study was to identify, group and analyze subjective perception of the impact of the disease on health-related quality of life in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods The study involved 36 consecutive patients of both sexes, older than 10 years of age, diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis in the tertiary health clinic in three successive weeks. They were selected for medicamentous treatment. Health-related quality of life was assessed by Q method. Through 34 representative statements, which were sorted by the examinees related to subjective priorities, 10 key quality of life domains were examined. The data were processed by factor analysis employing specialized software package PQMethod. Results Analyzing individual opinions of the examinees, five different opinion-types (factors) on the impact of chronic rhinosinusitis on quality of life were demonstrated. They were marked numerically and descriptively according to dominant characteristics of the group: Factor 1 - stable group (47.2% of individuals), Factor 2 - symptomatic group (11.1% of individuals), Factor 3 - mental group (5.6% of individuals), Factor 4 - physical group (11.1% of individuals) and Factor 5 - optimistic group (25.0% of individuals). Each group was systematically analyzed. Conclusion Majority of patients with chronic rhinosinusits (72.2%) were found to be satisfied with the quality of life, while just a small number (5.6%) heavily bore the illness which especially jeopardised their mental health. This study demonstrates the strength of Q method in analyzing and categorizing subjectivity and offers quality practical information which enables a more comprehensive approach and more adequate intervention in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.
SEM investigation of composite restoration adaptation to enamel after use of total etch and self etch adhesive system
Authors: Dacic Stefan , Dacic-Simonovic Dragica , Zivkovic Slavoljub , Radicevic Goran , Mitic Aleksandar , Stanojevic Ivana , Veselinovic Aleksandar
Published: December 2009

Introduction Quality and durability of enamel/composite interface essentially depend on an adhesive restorative system. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of marginal adaptation of composite adhesive systems to enamel by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and to analyze the morphology of the enamel surface along margins of composite restorations, following exposure to cariogenic solution. Methods The study material included 56 extracted human third molars. Class V cavities were prepared with margins at enamel. Cavities were restored with Single Bond/Z250 and Single Bond/Filtek flow, using the total etch adhesive system, and Prompt-L-Pop/Z250 and Prompt-L-Pop/Filtek flow, using the self etch adhesive system. After the restorative procedure, the restorations were submitted to demineralization during 7 and 28 days. Samples were stored in a cariogenic solution (lactic acid, pH 4.5; 0.1 M) at 37?C or in deionized water (the control group). The margins of restorations and perimarginal enamel were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The gap formations around restoration were measured on cervical, occlusal and approximate margins. Results The usage of the total etch adhesive system showed statistically significant lower marginal gap width around composite restoration, compared with the self etch system (p<0.01). The SEM examination also showed perimarginal enamel zones presenting several signs of demineralization and erosion (alteration of rods, porosities) after acting of a cariogenic solution, in both adhesive methods. Less alteration was found on the enamel surfaces not included in the perimarginal zone. Conclusion Treating the cavity with 35% phosphoric acid in the total etch system significantly improved the adaptation of the composite resins to enamel, compared with the self etch treatment. Stronger demineralization of the perimarginal enamel in a cariogenic solution was observed around all restorations in both adhesive systems.
Efficiency of final irrigation of root canal in removal of smear layer
Authors: Mitic Aleksandar , Mitic Nadica , Zivkovic Slavoljub , Tosic Goran , Savic Vojin , Dacic Stefan , Stojanovic Miodrag
Published: December 2009

Introduction A smear layer forms on the root canal walls as the consequence of root instrumentation. The smear layer formed in such a way considerably influences the quality of root obturation and endodontic treatment outcome. Objective The aim of this study was to ultrastructurally analyze the surface of intracanal dentine after removal of the smear layer by the solution of doxycycline, citric acid and detergent Tween-80 (MTAD). Methods The study involved 60 single-rooted, extracted, human teeth divided into four groups. All samples were instrumented by a step-back technique and manual K-files, and rinsed during instrumentation by 2% CHX and H2O2. The first group of samples was exclusively rinsed by CHX and H2O2; in the second group, besides using CHX and H2O2, MTAD solution was used for the final irrigation. The samples which were rinsed by distilled water (+ control) and the samples rinsed by 5.25% NaOCl and 17% Na EDTA (-control) served as control groups. All samples were observed under the scanning electronic microscope JEOL-JSM-5300. The coronary, middle and apex thirds of the radix region were analyzed. Results The obtained results of the SEM analysis showed that the application of 2% chlorhexidine and hydrogen peroxide did not give clear dentine walls, and the smear layer could not be removed completely. The application of the same combination (CHX and H2O2), added by the final MTAD irrigation solution, led to the efficient removal of the smear layer, while the morphological structure of dentine surface remained unchanged. Statistical analysis showed that canal walls in the experimental group with MTAD as the final irrigation were significantly clearer compared to the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that MTAD is an efficient solution for the final irrigation of the canal system.
Role of standard test meal in initiation of insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Koprivica Branka , Beljic-Zivkovic Teodora , Ille Tatjana
Published: December 2009

Introduction Secondary monotherapy failure in diabetes mellitus type 2 occurs early in the course of disease. Choosing the optimal combination therapy depends on the primary pathogenic mechanism. Evaluation of the residual beta cell function is of primary importance in deciding whether insulin should be included in the combination therapy. Objective To investigate the influence of standard meal test and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-B) index, as markers of residual insulin secretion, on the efficacy of two different therapeutic strategies in secondary sulphonylurea (SU) failure. Methods In the group of thirty subjects with diabetes type 2, metabolic syndrome and secondary SU failure, metformin (MET) was added for the following six months. In the group of 30 subjects with diabetes type 2, secondary SU failure, with no metabolic syndrome, insulin (INS) was added for the same period. During the six-month follow-up period, fasting, postprandial, mean daily blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C) were evaluated. Fasting and meal stimulated C-peptide (CP) and insulin levels were measured at the beginning; absolute and relative increase of CP (delta CP, delta CP%), and HOMA-B were calculated. Correlation between CP secretion and HOMA-B at the beginning and glycaemic control after six months of therapy were evaluated by using Pearson correlation coefficient. Results Glycaemic control after six months was significantly improved in both therapeutic combinations (p<0.01). However, target values were not met in either group. Stimulated CP levels correlated best with all the parameters of glycaemic control in the group SU+MET (r -0.479 to -0.791; p<0.01), and in the group SU+INS (r 0.382 to 0.635; p<0.01). HOMA-B correlated only with HbA1C in the SU+MET group (r=-0.382; p<0.05). Conclusion Clinical diagnosis of metabolic syndrome and evaluation of residual insulin secretion are necessary in choosing the best combination therapy in secondary SU failure in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Stimulated standard meal CP level is a clinically useful marker of residual insulin secretion.
Peripheral nerve blocks in pediatric anesthesia
Authors: Novakovic Dejan , Budic Ivana , Simic Dusica , Djordjevic Nina , Slavkovic Andjelka , Zivanovic Dragoljub
Published: December 2009

Introduction Most children undergoing surgery can benefit from regional anesthetic techniques, either as the sole anesthetic regimen or, as usual in pediatric practice, in combination with general anesthesia. The use of peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) in pediatric anesthesia is an effective way to decrease the side-effects and complications associated with central blocks. In spite of their many advantages, including easy performance end efficacy, peripheral nerve blocks are still underused. Objective This article discusses a general approach to PNBs in children and provides data concerning the practice of this regional technique in different age groups. Methods Data from 1,650 procedures were prospectively collected during the period from March 1, 2007 to February 29, 2008. The type of PNB, if any, as well as the patient age were noted. Our patients were divided into four groups: 0-3 years, 4-7 years, 8-12 years and 13-18 years. Results During the investigated period, PNBs as a sole technique or in anesthetized children were performed in 7.45% of cases. Ilioingunal/iliohypogastric nerve block and penile block were the most common (70% of all PNBs) distributed mainly among the children between 4-7 years of age (p<0.05). In older children, extremity PNBs predominate in regard to other types of blocks. PNBs are most frequently performed under general anesthesia (85%), so the perineural approach requires a safe technique to avoid nerve damage. Conclusion The observed differences in PNB usage seem to be related to patient age and correlate with common pathology and also with technical availability of PNB performance.
Prevention of postpartal endometritis: Antibiotic of choice
Authors: Jovanovic Nebojsa , Terzic Milan , Dotlic Jelena , Aleksic Svetlana
Published: December 2009

Introduction In spite of the advances of modern medicine, puerperal infection is still one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality of women in postpartal period. Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of microorganisms in the cervicovaginal region of women in labor, as well as the frequency of puerperal endometritis in order to determine optimal treatment for isolated microorganisms and to prevent postpartal endometritis. Methods In this study, all women who gave birth to a healthy child per vias naturalis during the past two years in a tertiary health institution, Institute of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Centre of Serbia, were analyzed. The investigation involved 6,391 women in labor. Cervicovaginal smear was taken from all patients before labor, on admission for delivery, and sent to microbiological analysis. Standard procedures of bacterial cultivation were used. For statistical analysis of the results, we used the statistical programme SPSS 15. Results A single microorganism was isolated from each smear of 612 women and in 52 patients two microorganisms were registered in the same smear. We identified 10 sorts of microorganisms, out of which Escherichia coli (in 43.8% of cases), and Enterococcus spp. (in 27.9% of cases) were the most frequent ones. Due to the appropriate approach, there were no cases of puerperal endometritis registered. Reactivity tests showed that Escherichia coli was sensitive to trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole, Enterococcus spp. to macrolides and cephalosporines, while both types of microorganisms were sensitive to synthetic penicillins and fluoroquinolines. Conclusion The study results show that 10.9% of pregnant women have positive findings of the cervicovaginal smear and that infection prevention should be directed towards Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. by administration of the listed antibiotics.
Assessment of functional disability and quality of life in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Mustur Dusan , Vesovic-Potic Vladislava , Stanisavljevic Dejana , Ille Tatjana , Ille Mihailo
Published: December 2009

Introduction Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic progressive autoimmune inflammatory disorder involving mainly the axial skeleton and larger peripheral joints that progressively limits spinal mobility and may lead to irreversible structural changes and consequently to impaired physical function and reduced quality of life. Objective The aim of this study was to assess functional disability and quality of life of patients with ankylosing spondylitis and determine the correlation between functional disability and quality of life. Methods The study enrolled 74 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (16 females and 58 males). The demographic data of the patients were collected. Functional disability was assessed with the Bath Ankylosing Functional Index (BASFI). Quality of life was assessed by the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) and the European Quality of Life Questionnaire (EuroQoL/EQ-5D). Results In our study, the mean age was 48.5?10.3 years. BASFI was negatively correlated with the SF-36 physical function subscale (p<0.001), physical role (p=0.002), bodily pain (p=0.003), general health (p<0.001), vitality (p=0.012) and mental health (p=0.010) subscale. There was a significantly inverse correlation between the BASFI score and the rating scale of EQ-5D (p=0.001). In the regression model, the BASFI score (p=0.000) showed an independent association with the physical function domain of SF-36. Conclusion In conclusion, the BASFI index was associated with physical function, physical role, bodily pain, general health, vitality and mental health domains of SF-36 and also with the rating scale of EQ-5D.
Attribution style of patients with depression
Authors: Leposavic Ivana , Leposavic Ljubica
Published: December 2009

Introduction The role of attribution in psychopathology has been investigated most systematically within the depression context. The presumption which makes people depressive consists, to an excessive degree, of internal, stable and global attributions to negative occurrences. Negative attributions for unpleasant events are associated with the loss of self-respect which follows. Objective Establishing the characteristics of attribution style of depressive patients. Methods The investigation included 62 subjects. The first group consisted of 32 patients with endogenous depression in remission. The second group included 30 healthy subjects. The characteristics of attribution style, in both groups, were tested by the Attribution Style Questionnaire (ASQ). Results The group of depressive patients, in comparison with healthy subjects, exhibited a significantly more marked internal attribution for negative events (t(60)=-3.700; p<0.01) and global internal negative attributions (t(60)=-4.023; p<0.01). There was no significant difference between the groups in the stability of these negative attributions (t(60)=-1.937; p>0.05), and also the composite score which represents the measure of hopelessness did not make a significant difference between depressive and healthy subjects (t(60)=-1.810; p>0.05). Conclusion Depressive patients exhibit an inclination towards internal and global attribution for negative events. These negative attributions do not have stable character, i.e. these attributions vary in time. Characteristics of attribution judgments of depressive people do not represent a permanent pattern within their cognitive style.
Pyogenic arthritis of sacroiliac joint in children
Authors: Rakonjac Zoran , Brdar Radivoj , Satara Mirko
Published: December 2009

Introduction Pyogenic infection of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is very rare in children. It is the result of haematogenous spread primarily affecting the joint. The process is usually monoarticular. By rule, sequestra are rarely formed, there are no greater bone destructions, but there is usually early bone sclerosing. Case outline Due to the pain in the lumbosacral area spreading down the right leg and positive Lazarevic's sign, a 13-yearold boy was referred to a neuropediatrician. He was suffering from lumbosciatica. In the first three sick days, laboratory tests were done as well as X-ray examination. High febrility and laboratory results indicated the existence of infection of unknown localization. Diagnostic examination: radiography of the lungs and heart, computerized tomography (CT), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ultrasound (US) of hips and painful sacroiliac area and US of abdomen could not localise the infection. Radiography of SIJ (Barschoni) focused the attention on SIJ. Scintigraphy of the skeleton with 99mTc-DPD pointed to the intensified collection of radiopharmaceuticals in the area around SIJ. Localized changes, erythema and signs of abscess in the projection of SIJ appeared the fifth day since the appearance of the disease. Incision was performed as well as evacuation of purulent content, and bacterial analysis isolated Staphylococcus aureus. Therapy with antibiotics was applied according to the antibiogram three weeks parenterally (intravenously) and two weeks per os. After five weeks, clinical and laboratory results were normal. The patient has been monitored for eight months since the appearance of the disease. Conclusion In children with symptoms and signs of lumbosciatica, among other things, attention should be paid, differentially and diagnostically speaking, to pyogenic infection of SIJ. The skeletal scintigraphy helps early diagnosis of pyogenic infection of SIJ, when localized clinical signs have not been formed yet. In our patient, the infection was caused by localized spreading from a skin abrasion.
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis: A modern treatment protocol
Authors: Slavkovic Nemanja , Vukasinovic Zoran
Published: December 2009

The treatment of a patient with slipped capital femoral epiphysis begins with an early diagnosis and accurate classification. On the basis of symptom duration, clinical findings and radiographs, slipped capital femoral epiphysis is classified as pre-slip, acute, acute-on-chronic and chronic. The long-term outcome of slipped capital femoral epiphysis is directly related to severity and the presence or absence of avascular necrosis and/or chondrolysis. Therefore, the first priority in the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis is to avoid complications while securing the epiphysis from further slippage. Medical treatment of patients with acute and acute-on-chronic slipped capital femoral epiphysis, as well as those presented in pre-slip stage, is the safest, although time-consuming. Manipulations, especially forced and repeated, are not recommended due to higher avascular necrosis risk. The use of intraoperative fluoroscopy to assist in the placement of internal fixation devices has markedly increased the success of surgical treatment. Controversy remains as to whether the proximal femoral epiphysis in severe, chronic slipped capital femoral epiphysis should be realigned by extracapsular osteotomies or just fixed in situ. The management protocol for slipped capital femoral epiphysis depends on the experience of the surgeon, motivation of the patient and technical facilities.
Understanding the Universal Right to Education as Jurisgenerative Politics and Democratic Iterations
Authors: Wahlström Ninni
Published: December 2009

This article examines how the universal human right to education can be understood in terms of what Seyla Benhabib considers ‘democratic iterations’. Further, by referring to the concept of jurisgenerative politics, Benhabib argues that a democratic people reinterpret guiding norms and principles which they find themselves bound to, through iterative acts, so that they are not only the subjects but also the authors of laws. By examining the use of the Article of the universal right to education in the European Convention on Human Rights, not as an Article with an unambiguous meaning, but as an Article which from its very start was the subject of different interpretations and desires, the author argues for an understanding of the process of transforming universal rights into national law and norms as democratic iterations. This way of conceiving democratic iterations is examined empirically, with Sweden as an example, by analyses of three different discursive arenas: a political/legal arena; an arena concerning political contests over independent schools; and a more limited arena for advocating denominational schools. The conclusion is that two different disjunctions — between universal norms and national self-determination and between law as power and law as meaning — are productive interspaces for renegotiating and rearticulating universal law into local/national norms.
Dark respiration of leaves and traps of terrestrial carnivorous plants: are there greater energetic costs in traps?
Authors: Adamec Lubomír
Published: December 2009

In this study, O2-based dark respiration rate (RD) in leaf and trap cuttings was compared in 9 terrestrial carnivorous plant species of 5 genera to decide whether traps represent a greater energetic (maintanence) cost than leaves or photosynthetic parts of traps. RD values of cut strips of traps or leaves of terrestrial carnivorous plants submerged in water ranged between 2.2 and 8.4 nmol g−1 s−1 (per unit dry weight) in pitcher traps of the genera Sarracenia, Nepenthes, and Cephalotus, while between 7.2 and 25 nmol g−1 DW s−1 in fly-paper or snapping traps or leaves of Dionaea and Drosera. No clear relationship between RD values of traps (or pitcher walls) and leaves (or pitcher wings or petioles) was found. However, RD values of separated Drosera prolifera tentacles exceeded those of leaf lamina 7.3 times.
Seminoma presented with acute abdomen due to ileum perforation
Authors: Filiz Ali , Sücüllü İlker , Kurt Yavuz , Okul Oğuz , Küçükodaci Zafer , Karagöz Bülent
Published: December 2009

Germ cell tumors presenting with an acute abdomen are not common. We present a case of seminoma with ileum perforation, which presented in a 48-year-old man. who had been admitted to hospital with a right lower abdominal palpable mass measuring approximately 16 cm. Before an exploratory laparotomy was performed, acute abdomen with signs of hollow viscus perforation had occurred. An ileum perforation was detected and a right hemicolectomy and ileal resection were performed. The pathological examination showed a classic seminoma of undescended testis. In conclusion, this case is interesting with respect to its clinical picture of acute abdomen due to ileal perforation. The possibility of a germ cell tumor should always be kept in mind in male patients with acute abdomen.
LES and URANS modelling of turbulent liquid-liquid flow in a static mixer: Turbulent kinetic energy and turbulence dissipation rate
Authors: Jaworski Zdzislaw , Murasiewicz Halina
Published: December 2009

The present study deals with numerical simulations of turbulent flow of a liquid-liquid system in a Kenics static mixer with ten inserts. CFD approach was used in two modes: large eddy simulation (LES) and unsteady Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS). Large eddy simulation in the static mixer was carried out using the dynamic kinetic energy subgrid-scale model with standard wall functions whereas in URANS approach the standard k-ɛ turbulent model and standard wall functions were applied. Two-phase flow was modelled employing the “mixture model” of the Eulerian type. The simulations were performed mainly for the Reynolds number of 10000 with the volumetric ratio of 99 % of water to 1 % of oil. The investigations revealed that due to distinct distributions of the turbulence measures, the drop breakup process occurs with varying intensity in different locations within the mixer inserts. Significantly higher local values of the dissipation rate, ɛ, were predicted in URANS than in LES. However, both modelling methods indicated high values of ɛ at the beginning and the end of the mixer inserts, which implies the maximum shearing action exerted on the drops. Consequently, the inflow and outflow zone of each insert are the regions of the highest breakup intensity.
The Diagnostic Possibilities of a Modified Hysteroscopic Technique
Authors: Edström Karin , Fernström Ingmar
Published: December 2009

A modified endoscopic technique for the inspection of the uterine cavity is described. The modification consists in the injection of a clear, water‐soluble and viscous dextran solution into the uterine cavity, through which a clear view of the latter is obtained. Thirty cases were examined by this method following hysterography. Comparative studies of the observations made at hysteroscopy and the hysterographic findings in these cases showed that hysteroscopy is of greater diagnostic value than hysterography because the nature and extent of any intrauterine lesion present can be assessed directly.
Nuclear Inclusion Bodies in Vaginal Smears from Patients with Vaginal Discharge
Authors: Cederqvist Lars , Eliasson Gösta , Lindell Lisbeth , Stormby Karin
Published: December 2009

Abstract. One hundred women with acute vaginal discharge were examined clinically, cytologically and virologically for herpes simplex. Eleven of them showed cytological signs of herpes simplex, a diagnosis that was confirmed virologically in 5. This frequency of cytological and virological changes is much higher than that found in routine smears. Gynaecological examination showed signs of herpes genitalis in only 3 cases.
The Influence of Exchange Transfusion Upon Coagulation and Fibrinolysis in Newborn Infants with Erythroblastosis
Authors: Nielsen Niels Chr.
Published: December 2009

Abstract. A comparative study of the factors concerned with coagulation and fibrinolysis in newborn infants with erythroblastosis—(a) at the time of birth, (b) before, and (c) after exchange transfusion—showed the following significant changes:

A. During the period from birth until the start of the exchange transfusion (an average of approximately 5 hours): A decrease in PP and factor V simultaneously with a markedly decreasing fibrinolytic activity.

B. During the period from before until after the exchange transfusion: A marked fall in the platelet count, an increase in the PP, but a prolonged Quick time. In addition, a slight fall in the fibrinogen content simultaneously with a slight, but not significant, increase in fibrinolytic activity. Moreover, a pronounced increase in plasminogen content.

The cause of these changes is discussed, with particular reference to the levels of factors, in the donor blood, concerned with coagulation and fibrinolysis.
Oxyphenbutazone in Vaginal Operations for Genital Prolapse
Authors: Bergsjø Per
Published: December 2009

Abstract. The effects of oxyphenbutazone (Tanderil) during the first week following vaginal operations for prolapse have been studied by the double‐blind technique. The series comprised 84 patients, 41 of whom received the drug and 43 the placebo. A loading dose was given on the day before the operation, and the medications continued until the seventh post‐operative day. There was a statistically significant decrease in the use of analgesics, and a persistent but not significant lowering of the rectal temperature in the oxyphenbutazone group. The recovery of bladder function was equal in the two groups, as were the side effects and complications. Judged by the nurses' unbiased report of the post‐operative course, there was a tendency towards an uncomplicated course in the oxyphenbutazone‐treated as compared with the placebo‐treated patients.
Hydatidiform Mole, Invasive Mole and Choriocarcinoma in Sweden 1958–1965
Authors: Ringertz N.
Published: December 2009

Abstract. All cases of hydatidiform mole, invasive mole and choriocarcinoma reported to the Swedish Cancer Registry as first diagnosed during the years 1958 through 1965 have been analyzed. The series comprises 631 cases of hydatidiform mole not followed by malignancy, 13 cases of invasive mole, 10 of choriocarcinoma developing after hydatidiform mole and 14 of choriocarcinoma without proven preceding mole. The frequency calculated on the number of medically registered pregnancies (births and abortions) was 1: 1 560 for hydatidiform mole, 1: 77 000 for invasive mole and 1: 41 000 for choriocarcinoma (Table III). The age specific rates per pregnancy rise significantly after the age of 40 both for benign mole and the malignant conditions (Table IV). The 37 cases of invasive mole and choriocarcinoma have been analyzed as to parity, clinical course, metastasis, and survival time (Tables V–IX). It is of considerable prognostic value to separate invasive mole and choriocarcinoma (following the definitions of Hertig and Novak). In this series (histologically revised by the author) all 13 patients with invasive mole (all of them treated with hysterectomy) were living and free from symptoms 2–9 years after the mole delivery. In the group, choriocarcinoma after mole 5 patients are living symptom‐free more than 9 years after the mole delivery, but 5 died from the tumour within 5 years. The group, choriocarcinoma without preceding mole proved most malignant; only 2 out of 14 survived 6–7 years. Of the 9 patients in this group with choriocarcinoma after term or near term pregnancy 8 died within 18 months. The evaluation of chorioepithelial atypia in mole curettages (3 step grading of Hertig) was not shown to be of prognostic value in this study. Regressing lung metastases were shown in 3 out of 13 patients with invasive mole. Five patients dead by metastases of choriocarcinoma were shown to have a normal uterus at autopsy.
Pregnancies During Oral Contraceptive Treatment: Swedish Experiences
Authors: Rutensköld Margareta
Published: December 2009

At the beginning of 1969 Swedish physicians were called upon by the National Board of Health and Welfare to report all pregnancies known to have occurred in women who had used oral contraceptives. Ninety pregnancies were reported for 1968, 73 of these with the sequential type of therapy and 17 with the combined type. Calculations using Pearľs formula and based on sales figures gave pregnancy rates of 0.467 and 0.005 for sequential and combined agents respectively. The possible causes of errors in these statistics are discussed. However, it is concluded that the pregnancy risk, is much more than ten times higher with the sequential than with the combined type of therapy. The most important cause of the failures in this series seems to have been the lack of efficacy of the drugs.
On Intrauterine Death
Authors: Lauslahti Kalevi , Hulkko Seppo
Published: December 2009

The material comprised 56 stillborn fetuses from the Central Hospital of Tampere, during the period from January 1, 1968, to December 31, 1969. It was shown that maternal causes (27% of the total), and causes derived from the placenta (42% of the total), were the most significant findings in elucidating the causes of intrauterine deaths.
Premenstrual Syndrome and Physical Exercise
Authors: Timonen Sakari , Procopé Berndt‐Johan
Published: December 2009

The relationship between premenstrual syndrome and physical exercise was studied with the aid of questionnaires in a series of 748 female university students. Girls who practised sports showed less symptoms of central nervous tension, particularly headache. Menstrual dys‐mennrrhoea also was less frequent in the athletes than in the control group. On the other hand no correlation was observed between premenstrual dysmenorrhoea, oedema and the practice of sports. Gymnastics had practically no effect on the various premenstrual or menstrual symptoms. The favourable influence of sports is attributed mainly to an improved circulatory capacity.
The Amount and form of Radioactivity in Human Milk After Lung Scanning, Renography and Placental Localization 131I Labelled Tracers
Authors: Karjalainen P. , Penttilä I. M. , Pystynen P.
Published: December 2009

The secretion of radioisotope into mothers' milk was studied after the administration of carriers labelled with 131I. The radiopharmaceuticals used were 300 μCi macroaggregated human scrum albumin, in short MAA (for lung scanning), 25 μCi ortho‐iodohippuric acid, in short OIH (for renography) and 10 μCi human serum albumin, in short HSA (for placental localization). In the MAA series (7 patients) the maximum radioactivity secreted into milk in the 24 hours following injection was 0.7%, and the mean activity 0.14% of the injected dose. The corresponding figures of the OIH series (25 patients) were 2.4 and 0.32%. In both cases activity was at its maximum during the first 24 hours after injection. In the HSA series (8 patients) the maximum radioactivity secreted into the milk during 24 hours after injection was 0.22% of the injected dose. After the administration of OIH and apparently also of MAA, the radioactivity secreted in 24 hours increases if the excreted volume of milk increases.

The radio‐iodine secreted in the milk was not bound to the radiopharmaceutical originally administered, but was mainly in the form of free isotope.

The breast feeding of babies whose mothers had undergone lung scanning, renography or placental localization was discussed. It was proposed that milk should be discarded for a minimum of 7 days following lung scanning and a minimum of 2 days following renography, provided the examinations were carried out by means of the radiopharmaceuticals and doses used by the present authors.
Induction Of Abortion by the Intravenous Administration of Prostaglandin F2xA Critical Evaluation
Authors: Wiqvist Nils , Bygdeman Marc , Toppozada Mokhtar
Published: December 2009

Prostaglandin F2x was administered intravenously to 166 women for induction of legal abortion. The patients were subdivided into different treatment groups to investigate the relative importance of the administered dose and the duration of infusion at various stages of pregnancy. The results of different parameters were analysed statistically. The details of the clinical outcome were analysed according to a defined scoring system describing the actual events following a certain treatment plan. Early pregnancies (7‐8 weeks) were more susceptible to induction by PGF2α infusion than later stages of gestation. The success rate in the 9th‐20th week of pregnancy was dose dependant as demonstrated by termination of pregnancy in 75% of the high dose (100 μg PC min) group and only 27% in the low dose group (50 μg per min). The duration of infusion was the second parameter of vital importance to achieve a satisfactory outcome. Infusion of a moderate dose (75 μg per min) for a period of 15 hours could induce a valuable clinical response in the form of cervical dilatation, yet the duration was too short to complete the abortion process. The frequency of vomiting and diarrhoea was an important complicating feature in the high dose group. The high dose necessary for an acceptable success rate is accompanied by a high incidence of distressing symptoms (an episode of vomiting or diarrhoea every second hour). This fact limits the routine clinical use of intravenous PGF2α prostaglandins for induction of abortion.
Ultrasonic Localization of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices
Authors: Piiroinen Olli
Published: December 2009

Thirty women were examined by ultrasonic B‐scanning before and immediately after the insertion of an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD). Fifteen women had the Lippes loop inserted, ten the coil (Gynekoil®), and five the steel band (Inhiband®). Both the polyethylene and metallic contraceptive devices were well visualized by ultrasound, and each gave an echo image corresponding to its shape. In addition to this, a woman who had, in spite of the Lippes loop, become pregnant and whose pregnancy was in the eighth week, counted from the beginning of her last menstruation, was examined. The ring‐like gestational sac could be seen in the fundus of the normal uterus. Further, the echo image of the Lippes loop was obtained from the inside of the uterus. The uterine size and the size of the gestational sac corresponded to the stage of the pregnancy as indicated by the patient.