bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal and Postnatal Diagnostics Problems of the Most Common Surgical Congenital Malformations of Newborns in Latvia
Authors: Ābola Zane , Pētersons Aigars , Pugačevska Daila , Zviedre Astra , Lackaja Jana
Published: November 2009

Prenatal and Postnatal Diagnostics Problems of the Most Common Surgical Congenital Malformations of Newborns in Latvia

The most common surgical congenital malformations of newborns in Latvia are esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), duodenal atresia (DA) and abdominal wall defects — gastroschisis (G) and omphalocele (O). Survival and quality of life of these patients depend on precise pre- and postnatal diagnosis, timely and qualified treatment, and presence of associated anomalies and prematurity. The aim of our study was to define prenatal and postnatal diagnostic problems of the most common surgical congenital malformations of new-borns in Latvia. Data concerning pre- and postnatal diagnostics from case-records of patients treated in Children's Clinical University Hospital from 1998 till 2008 with esophageal atresia (58 patients), duodenal atresia (20 patients) and congenital abdominal wall defects — gastroschisis (17 patients) and omphalocele (28 patients) were analysed. Results showed that in case of EA prenatal USG was performed in 62% of expectant mothers and in neither case suspicion about. EA was expressed. In all patients after birth diagnostic placement of nasogastric tube was performed. In approximately one-third catheter of bad opaqueness was used. Preoperative bronchoscopy and esophagoscopy in order to exclude upper tracheoesophageal fistula were performed in two patients from the analysed group. In 40% of cases DA was diagnosed in prenatal ultrasonography. G was diagnosed prenatally in 29.4%, O — only in 3.7%.
Long-term Clinical Results for Randomised Comparison of Paclitaxel-eluting versus Bare-metal Stents in Unprotected Left Main Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Narbute Inga , Jēgere Sanda , Kumsārs Indulis , Mintāle Iveta , Zakke Iļja , Juhnēviča Dace , Trušinskis Kārlis , Sondore Dace , Lismanis Aigars , Latkovskis Gustavs , Grāve Aļona , Dombrovskis Andis , Ērglis Andrejs
Published: November 2009

Long-term Clinical Results for Randomised Comparison of Paclitaxel-eluting versus Bare-metal Stents in Unprotected Left Main Coronary Artery Disease

To optimise percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) strategy for unprotected left main (ULMCA) disease we performed a randomised study: IVUS-guided bare metal stent (BMS) versus paclitaxel-eluting stent (PES) implantation after lesion pre-treatment with cutting balloon (CB) for unprotected LM lesions. The purpose of this randomized study was to evaluate six-month and three-year clinical results. Several recent publications have demonstrated good short- and midterm outcomes in patients with left main artery disease after stent implantation. However, data on long-term comparison of BMS and PES for LM lesions are limited. Patients with left main coronary artery disease enrolled at Latvian Centre of Cardiology were randomly assigned to either BMS (n = 50) or PES implantation (n = 53). All interventions were IVUS-guided and CB pre-treatment before stenting was performed in all patients. All patients were scheduled for six-month and three-year follow-up. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACE) defined as death, Q wave myocardial infarction or target lesion revascularisation (TLR). Baseline clinical and procedural characteristics were comparable in both groups. At six months, the MACE-free survival rate was 70% in BMS and 87% in PES patients (P < 0.05). At three years, MACE occurred in 18 patients (36.0%) in the BMS and seven patients (13.2%) in the PES group (P < 0.05). The current study demonstrates the benefit of IVUS guided paclitaxel-eluting stent implantation after cutting balloon pre-treatment in left main coronary artery disease over bare metal stent implantation at six months and three years.
Comparison of Intravascular Imaging and Quantitative Coronary Angiography to Evaluate Neointimal Proliferation after Complex Lesion Stenting
Authors: Jēgere Sanda , Narbute Inga , Kumsārs Indulis , Mintāle Iveta , Zakke Iļja , Juhnēviča Dace , Trušinskis Kārlis , Sondore Dace , Lismanis Aigars , Latkovskis Gustavs , Grāve Aļona , Dombrovskis Andis , Ērglis Andrejs
Published: November 2009

Comparison of Intravascular Imaging and Quantitative Coronary Angiography to Evaluate Neointimal Proliferation after Complex Lesion Stenting

Unlike quantitative coronary angiography (QCA), intravascular imaging methods allow direct visualisation of the arterial wall. Our goal was to determine several intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters of neointimal proliferation and stent endothelisation after complex lesion intervention compared to QCA. We examined 261 patients who had underwent percutaneous intervention with bare metal (BMS) or drug eluting stent (DES) implantation for complex coronary lesions and had IVUS or OCT images at six-month follow-up. Percent diameter stenosis (QCA) was 25.2 ± 16.0 in BMS vs 21.7 ± 17.4 in DES (P < 0.05). Percent neointimal volume obstruction (IVUS) was 19.5 ± 14.4 in BMS vs. 5.8 ± 7.7 in DES (P < 0.001). A moderate correlation was observed between QCA and IVUS with an r value of 0.384 overall, 0.472 for BMS and 0.416 for DES (P < 0.001 for all). In patients with chronic total occlusions (n = 161) QCA was similar in BMS and DES patients (P > 0.05) while IVUS showed less neointima in DES (P < 0.05). Total number of uncovered stent struts per OCT image was 0.4 ± 0.8 while per IVUS image 1.2 ± 1.5 (P < 0.001). In conclusion, angiographic indexes correlate with volumetric intravascular parameters. Although IVUS was more sensitive than QCA to assess neointimal proliferation, the assessment of stent endothelisation was more precise using OCT.
Epidemiology and Surgical Treatment of Gastric Cancer in Latvia
Authors: Sīviņš Armands , Misiņš Jānis , Pedrazzani Corrado , Ancāns Guntis , Stengrēvics Aivars , Krūminš Viesturs , Boka Viesturs , Leja Mārcis
Published: November 2009

Epidemiology and Surgical Treatment of Gastric Cancer in Latvia

The aim of the study was to evaluate short- and long-term results of surgical treatment of gastric cancer performed in Latvia Oncology Centre. Retrospectively data was collected from 461 patients who underwent gastrectomy with curative intent in the Latvia Oncology Centre from January 2001 to December 2005. The data was subjected to statistical analysis. On average, 92.2 (range 81-102) R0-R1 gastrectomies were performed each year. Post-operative complications occurred in 75 patients (16.3%); in-hospital mortality was 3.3%. The overall 5-year survival was 50.8%. In 444 cases (96.3%) there was histopathologic confirmation of R0-resection with a 5-year survival of 52.5% (P < 0.001). Considering pT category, 5-year survival (median) was 88.6% (not reached) for pT1 patients, 65% (not reached) for pT2, 42.3% (35.7 months) for pT3 and 27% (14.2 months) for pT4 (P < 0.001). Considering the pN category, 5-year survival (median) was 67% (not reached) for pN0 patients, 30% (22.1 months) for pN1 and 29% (14.2 months) for pN2-3 (P < 0.001). Short- as well as long-term results are comparable with Western experiences, but not for pN+ patients where no difference between pN1 and pN2 cases was observed.
Characteristics of Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Their Correlation with the Sex and Age of Patients in the Latvian Population
Authors: Stuķēna Inga , Kalvelis Andrejs , Bahs Guntis , Teibe Uldis , Tretjakovs Pēteris , Lejnieks Aivars
Published: November 2009

Characteristics of Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Their Correlation with the Sex and Age of Patients in the Latvian Population

Various cardiovascular risk factors (RFs) were determined in 773 out-patients (mean age 55.8 ± 14.5 years). Male individuals had a larger waist circumference (WC) than did female patients (99.1 ± 13.6 cm vs 93.3 ± 15.2 cm), higher diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (83.6 ± 9.6 mmHg vs 81.8 ± 9.6 mmHg), and higher levels of blood glucose (5.73 ± 1.4 mmol/L vs 5.49 ± 1.3 mmol/L) and triglycerides (TG) (1.89 ± 1.3 mmol/L vs 1.60 ± 1.0 mmol/L), but lower levels of total cholesterol (TC) (5.54 ± 1.2 mmol/L vs 5.79 ± 1.2 mmol/L) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (1.21 ± 0.4 mmol/L vs 1.44 ± 0.4 mmol/L). Compared with the younger age group (i.e., males, < 7 years; females, < 65 years), patients in the older age group had a larger WC (98.4 ± 14.2 cm vs 92.8 ± 15.1 cm), higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) (144.2 ± 19.2 mmHg vs 131.6 ± 18.5 mmHg), higher DBP (84.5 ± 8.8 mmHg vs 80.9 ± 9.8 mmHg), higher blood glucose level (5.74 ± 1.3 mmol/L vs 5.46 ± 1.3 mmol/L), and higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (LDL-C) (3.68 ± 1.0 mmol/L vs 3.52 ± 1.0 mmol/L), but lower HDL-C level (1.3 ± 0.4 mmol/L vs 1.41 ± 0.4 mmol/L). Age was significantly correlated with all RFs, with the exception of the level of C-reactive protein. In conclusion, analysis of cardiovascular RFs in different age subgroups of both sexes clearly showed individual peculiarities of risk profile. This conclusion challenges the usual way of risk calculation using "universal" markers like adiposity or dyslipidemia in all population. The new approach requires individual attention depending on sex and age also in management of risk.
Association between Inflammatory Markers and Clinical and Metabolic Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Stuķēna Inga , Kalvelis Andrejs , Bahs Guntis , Teibe Uldis , Tretjakovs Pēteris , Lejnieks Aivars
Published: November 2009

Association between Inflammatory Markers and Clinical and Metabolic Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases

The inflammatory reaction plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. The clinical significance of the main inflammatory markers — C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL6), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI1), etc. — has not been fully established. CRP, IL6, TNF-α, and PAI1 were assessed in 100 patients in terms of certain clinical indicators (sex, obesity indicators, blood pressure, and heart rate), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), adiponectin, and leptin levels. CRP and PAI1 levels were elevated in subjects with increased body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. CRP correlated positively with indicators of carbohydrate metabolism and negatively with TC, HDL-C, and adiponectin. PAI1 correlated positively with insulin levels, HOMA-IR, leptin, and TG, but negatively with HDL-C. IL6 correlated negatively with TC, but TNF-α correlated negatively with HDL-C. Both IL6 and TNF-α correlated positively with leptin levels. TNF-α correlated with TG levels and the indicators of carbohydrate metabolism only in women. CRP and PAI1 are the most sensitive inflammatory markers; their levels were higher in adipose subjects.
Epidemiological, Clinical, Molecular Features and Early Detection Strategy of Most Frequent Hereditary Cancers in Latvia
Authors: Gardovskis Jānis , Štrumfa Ilze , Miklaševičs Edvīns , Irmejs Arvīds , Trofimovičs Genādijs , Vjaters Egils , Borošenko Viktors , Melbārde-Gorkuša Inga , Gardovskis Andris , Vanags Andrejs , Ābele Andris , Subatniece Signe , Bitiņa Marianna , Švampāne Liāna , Žestkova Jekaterina , Bērziņa Dace , Aksenoka Karina , Boka Viesturs , Puķītis Aldis , Stāka Aiga , Tihomirova Laima
Published: November 2009

Epidemiological, Clinical, Molecular Features and Early Detection Strategy of Most Frequent Hereditary Cancers in Latvia

The aim of the study was to determine epidemiological, clinical and molecular features of hereditary breast-ovarian, colorectal, endometrial, prostate and pancreatic cancer in Latvia. The study was performed from 2006 to 2009. Family cancer histories and DNA samples from 5,040 cancer cases were collected, and more than 6,000 molecular tests were performed including multiplex PCR, direct sequencing, denaturing high performance liquid chromatography and others. For the first time, a BRCA2 gene mutation positive hereditary breast cancer family was identified. The necessity of 2 BRCA1 gene founder mutations testing, irrespective of family cancer history for breast and ovarian cancer patients, was confirmed on a large number of positive cases. Regarding hereditary ovarian cancer, every ninth case affected with this malignancy was associated with the BRCA1 gene mutation. For the first time, positive familial adenomatous polyposis cases positive for APC gene mutation were reported and data on the clinical frequency of hereditary endometrial and prostate cancer were provided. In pancreatic cancer patients there was a 3.5% frequency of BRCA1 gene founder mutations.
Exhaled Air Analysis in Patients with Different Lung Diseases Using Artificial Odour Sensors
Authors: Taivans Immanuels , Jurka Normunds , Balode Līga , Bukovskis Māris , Kopeika Uldis , Ogorodniks Vadims , Kleperis Jānis , Strazda Gunta , Šiliņš Viesturs , Martinsons Agris
Published: November 2009

Exhaled Air Analysis in Patients with Different Lung Diseases Using Artificial Odour Sensors

Sniffing breath to diagnose a disease has been practiced by doctors since ancient times. Nowadays, electronic noses are successfully used in the food, textile and perfume industry as well as for air pollution control. The aim of this study was to test whether exhaled breath analysed by an artificial nose could identify and discriminate between different lung diseases. A total of 76 individuals were tested: 25 bronchial asthma, 19 lung cancer, 10 pneumonia, 6 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and 16 healthy volunteers. Exhaled air was collected in plastic bags and immediately analysed using an electronic nose instrument (9185, Nordic Sensors AB) containing 14 different odour sensors. Multifactor logistic regression analysis was used to determine correlation between the amplitudes of sensor responses and the clinical diagnoses of patients and to calculate sensitivity and specificity of the method for each diagnosis. For diagnostics of asthma the sensitivity was found to be 84% and specificity — 86%. For lung cancer, the sensitivity was 74% and specificity, 95%; for pneumonia 90% and 98%, but for COPD, 33% and 97%, respectively. We conclude that an artificial nose is able to discriminate among different lung diseases with sufficiently good accuracy. This method may be further developed to implement it in clinical medicine for express diagnostics of acute and chronic lung diseases.
Association Study of Genetic Variants in the 14q11 - 14q13 Proteasomal Genes Cluster with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in Latvian Population
Authors: Trapiņa Ilva , Rumba-Rozenfelde Ingrīda , Sjakste Nikolajs , Sokolovska Jeļizaveta , Sugoka Olga , Sjakste Tatjana
Published: November 2009

Association Study of Genetic Variants in the 14q11 - 14q13 Proteasomal Genes Cluster with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) in Latvian Population

The possible role of proteasomes in the development of autoimmune diseases was hypothesised after discovery of the involvement of proteasomal LMP2 and LMP7 subunits in antigene processing. The objective of this study was to determine the association between allelic variants of the genes encoding proteasomal proteins PSME1, PSME2 and PSMA6 and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in the Latvian population. One Indel G-4543 CA-4544 →GA and four SNPs related to the PSMA6 gene (A-2486 →G and C-1910 →T, upstream promoter, C-110 →A of promoter, and C-8 →G of 5'UTR), of two cSNP in PSME1 (G1457 →A:Val104, exon 6 and C2536 →A: Lys244 →Thr, exon 11) and in PSME2 (C1153 →G:Arg61 →Gly, exon 4 and A1440 →C:His89 →Pro, exon 6) were geno-typed by means of primer-specific PCR, CAPS assay and/or sequencing in case/control study composed from the 156 JIA patients and 214 healthy individuals. Allele frequency and genotype distribution was similar in cases and controls for Indel, and SNPs A-2486 →G, C-1910 →T and C-8 →G of PSMA6, as well as for all studied cSNPs in PSME1 and PSME2 genes. Differences in A-110 allele and CG genotype frequencies were close to the statistically significant P level in JIA patients and healthy individuals, however, when an additive model was applied, the difference in the C-110 →A locus turned out to be statistically significant. The results support the hypothesis of the possible association of PSMA6 gene allelic variants with JIA in the Latvian population.
Analysis of Polymorphisms at the Adiponectin Gene Locus in Association with Type 2 Diabetes, Body Mass Index and Cardiovascular Traits in Latvian Population
Authors: Kalniņa Ineta , Latkovskis Gustavs , Ņkitina-Zaķe Liene , Mackevičs Vitolds , Pečulis Raitis , Kāpa Ivo , Fridmanis Dāvids , Ērglis Andrejs , Pīrāgs Valdis , Kloviņš Jānis
Published: November 2009

Analysis of Polymorphisms at the Adiponectin Gene Locus in Association with Type 2 Diabetes, Body Mass Index and Cardiovascular Traits in Latvian Population

Despite the number of recently conducted studies seeking to determine the association between genetic variants of adiponectin gene and susceptibility to type 2 diabetes (T2D) and increased body mass index (BMI), the results obtained are often inconsistent. To determine the impact of common polymorphisms in promoter and coding regions of adiponectin gene on these conditions in Latvian population, we selected ten SNPs (rs2241767, rs1501299, rs3777261, rs16861210, rs2241766, rs822396, rs182052, rs17300539, rs16861194, rs266729) based on haploblock structure and previously reported association studies. The selected SNPs were screened in a study group of 835 participants from the Genome Data Base of Latvian Population and mainly consisted of patients with T2D and coronary heart disease. None of the individual polymorphisms were significantly associated with T2D status or BMI when analysed using logistic or linear regression and adjusted for gender, age and other significant covariates. Frequency of rs2241766 T allele homozygotes however was significantly increased in T2D patients compared to controls (uncorrected P = 0.007). When analysed with other traits, the rs182052 G allele was found to be less frequent in patients suffering from myocardial infarction (P = 0.02; OR = 0.76, CI95% [0.61-0.92]) compared to others. Haplotype analysis revealed significant association of one haplotype with atrial fibrillation (uncorrected P = 0.01). In summary, we conclude that SNPs in adiponectin gene are unlikely to represent the risk for T2D, but may be involved in pathogenesis of CHD in the Latvian population.
Assessment of Tissue Perfusion During Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Porīte Nora , Striķe Eva , Bekers-Ančipolovskis Mihails , Semčenko Larisa , Krustiņa Inguna , Stradiņš Pēteris
Published: November 2009

Assessment of Tissue Perfusion During Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) remains essential for all valvular operations and the vast majority of coronary bypass surgeries. Inadequate CPB results in tissue underperfusion, activation of anaerobic metabolism and increased lactate production. The goal of the study was to determine the factors influencing oxygen delivery to and consumption in tissue. Fifty-six patients (41 male and 14 female patients of 27 to 84 years of age) scheduled to undergo cardiac surgery with CPB were enrolled in this prospective study. No operation-based selection was applied. The following data have been collected and analysed: demographics, preoperative cardiovascular profile. Arterial and venous blood gas tests, including blood glucose and lactate concentrations were obtained. We have assessed DO2 (mL/min/m2) and VO2 (mL/min/m2), venous oxygen content (CvO2) (mL/dL), arterial oxygen content (CaO2) (mL/dL) calculated according to standard equations based on haemoglobin concentration and saturation in arterial blood, cardiac output or pump flow. The main factors of organ dysoxia during CPB are the haemodilution degree and low peripheral oxygen delivery (DO2). Our study confirmed that hematocrit on pump and systemic flow rate determine the amount of oxygen delivery to the body, i.e. DO2 decrease is correlated with decrease of both hematocrit (Ht) and pump flow.
Diagnostic Markers for Early Sepsis Diagnosis in Children With Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Pavāre Jana , Grope Ilze , Kalniņš Imants , Gardovska Dace
Published: November 2009

Diagnostic Markers for Early Sepsis Diagnosis in Children With Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

Sepsis caused by infection remains a major cause of mortality among children. One of the main reasons for high sepsis mortality rates is the inability to obtain early diagnosis. Sensitive and specific biomarkers are greatly needed in rapid diagnosis of sepsis. The main aim of study was to investigate the ability of high-mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1), lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT) and C reactive protein (CRP) to differentiate sepsis patients. Eighty-four children with Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) were included in the prospective study. Sepsis was recognised in 23% (n = 19) of them. LBP, IL-6, CRP and PCT levels were significantly higher among the sepsis group (P < 0.05). HMGB1 levels in the sepsis patients did not significantly differ from SIRS patients. In ROC analysis in sepsis patients, identification markers LBP, IL6 and CRP performed quite similarly (P < 0.001), with the best result being for IL6. Our data suggest that in early sepsis diagnosis in children, LBP, IL-6, PCT and CRP are probably the superior diagnostic markers, with the best performance by IL6. LBP and IL-6 are superior markers for sepsis patients' disease process monitoring. HMGB1 does not have a diagnostic value for sepsis patient identification.
Glucose Metabolism Disorders and Risk Factors of Type 2 Diabetes in 45-74-Years-old Population in Rīga, Latvia
Authors: Barengo Noël , Misiņa Dana , Zariņa Lauma , Kloviņš Jānis , Ozola Dita , Dērveniece Andra , Tarāsova Linda , Pīrāgs Valdis
Published: November 2009

Glucose Metabolism Disorders and Risk Factors of Type 2 Diabetes in 45-74-Years-old Population in Rīga, Latvia

The aims of this study were to investigate the current prevalence of abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT), compare the risk factor profile between persons with and without AGT among 45-74 years-old Latvian men and women, and to validate the Finnish diabetes risk score (FINDRISC) questionnaire in detecting AGT in the middle-aged Latvian population. A cross-sectional survey among the 45-74-years old population randomly selected from the registers of general practitioners in Rīga, Latvia was carried out between April 2008 and March 2009. The survey consisted of a questionnaire, measurements such as height, weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure as well as blood oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), cholesterol and its fractions. Prevalence of obesity, central obesity and physical inactivity were high in the Latvian population. Women with AGT had a worse risk factor profile for T2D and cardiovascular diseases compared to those with normal glucose tolerance. No differences were found in the risk factor profile between men with and without AGT. A high proportion of men and women with more than 11 FINDRISC points had undetected AGT. The FINDRISC questionnaire can be used in clinical practice to detect persons with AGT in the Latvian population.
Sensitivity and Reproducibility of Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays for Detection of Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7
Authors: Kozireva Svetlana , Užameckis Dmitrijs , Bariševs Mihails , Murovska Modra
Published: November 2009

Sensitivity and Reproducibility of Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays for Detection of Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and 7 (HHV-7) are ubiquitous viruses that undergo latency and may become reactivated leading to cytomegalovirus reactivation, bone marrow suppression, nervous system dysfunction, graft-versus-host disease and increased mortality. The aim of this study was to identify the most sensitive and reproducible nPCR for detection of HHV-6 and HHV-7 infection and to evaluate the reproducibility of these assays in different laboratories. The sensitivity of the six previously published HHV-6 (one targeting hypothetical protein Bgp009 gene, two — large tegument protein gene, one — major binding protein gene and two targeting hypothetical Bgp071 protein gene) and four HHV-7 (targeting nuclear phosphoprotein, tegument phosphoprotein, large tegument protein and immediately early A transactivator gene) nPCRs was determined. The most sensitive HHV-6 nPCR was targeted Bgp071 protein gene, which could detect 5 genomic copies of HHV-6. The most sensitive and reproducible HHV-7 nPCR assay, targeting nuclear phosphoprotein gene, could detect 1 genomic copy of HHV-7. The reproducibility of the selected HHV-6 and HHV-7 nPCRs was evaluated in five different laboratories. The results obtained in all laboratories were identical to our results, confirming that these nPCRs are useful as assays for molecular diagnostics of HHV-6 and HHV-7 infection.
Relation of Endothelial Dysfunction and Adipokines Levels to Insulin Resistance in Metabolic Syndrome Patients
Authors: Tretjakovs Pēteris , Jurka Antra , Bormane Inga , Miķelsone Indra , Reihmane Dace , Balode Līga , Jaunalksne Inta , Mackēvičs Vitolds , Stuķēna Inga , Bahs Guntis , Lejnieks Aivars , Aivars Juris , Pīrāgs Valdis
Published: November 2009

Relation of Endothelial Dysfunction and Adipokines Levels to Insulin Resistance in Metabolic Syndrome Patients

Obese metabolic syndrome (MS) patients were categorised into three groups: 44 with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)(D); 20 with T2DM and coronary artery disease (CAD) (DC), and 26 with MS alone (M). Eighteen healthy subjects were selected as controls (C). Insulin resistance (IR) was assessed by HOMA-IR. Adiponectin, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) concentrations were measured by xMAP technology. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) was determined by ELISA. We used laser Doppler imaging for evaluating cutaneous endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in the hand. D and DC groups had significantly elevated IR compared with M or C group (P < 0.01). TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and ET-1 levels in DC were significantly elevated compared with other groups (P < 0.001). IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and ET-1 in D group were higher than those in C group (P < 0.05). TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and ET-1 concentrations were correlated with HOMA-IR indexes and adiponectin levels. All patients had lower adiponectin concentrations than controls (P < 0.001), but there were no differences between the patient groups. Only D and DC groups demonstrated a significant and similar decrease in LDI-Ach marker compared to C group (P < 0.001). LDI-Ach values were significantly correlated with HOMA-IR indexes and adiponectin levels (P < 0.001). Our findings show that obese MS patients have significantly increased HOMA-IR, TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1 and IL-8 levels, decreased adiponectin concentration, and endothelial dysfunction, but the presence of T2DM and CAD in these patients is associated with more pronounced endothelial dysfunction and increased production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
Importance of the Exercise Test Follow-up Programme for Patients with Coronary Artery Disease who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Mintāle Iveta , Narbute Inga , Jēgere Sanda , Zabunova Milāna , Lūriņa Dace , Zakke Iļja , Dzērve Vilnis , Ērglis Andrejs
Published: November 2009

Importance of the Exercise Test Follow-up Programme for Patients with Coronary Artery Disease who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

The clinical course and prognosis of coronary heart disease (CHD) can be modified favourably with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in combination with medication. A follow-up programme was developed in the Latvian Centre of Cardiology, which included a stress electrocardiogram for patients after PCI. This is the first study in Latvia, and provides wide opportunities to evaluate functional status of patients, treatment effectiveness, possible risks and prognosis after PCI. Exercise tests are widely used for the evaluation and diagnostics of CHD. This method has been successfully implemented in diagnostics of restenosis in coronary arteries, a process which pathophysiologically differs from primary atherosclerosis. A total of 7,300 patients with CHD were followed-up in one year after PCI. An exercise test was conducted one, three, six and twelve months after PCI. Clinical and functional status of patients and risk of restenosis were evaluated and corrections in medications were made. Seventeen percent of patients had chest pain and 13% had significant ST-segment changes in electrocardiogram. Restenosis of coronary arteries in angiography were established in 6.4%. In half of those patients above restenosis was diagnosed early — three to six months after PCI. We established a patient subgroup (22%) with "silent" ischemia (positive exercise test without chest pain), out of whom 41% had restenosis. For left main (LM) disease patients 50% of all restenosis diagnoses also were diagnosed early (three to six month after PCI). Restenosis was associated with ST-segment deviation in the exercise electrocardiogram. A lower Robinson index (RI) was registered in the same group of patients. A focussed follow-up programme performing exercise test allows to determine timely possible risk of restenosis, to adapt medication doses, to reduce risk factors and to influence positively patients' compliance.
Delaunay Meshing of Piecewise Smooth Complexes without Expensive Predicates
Authors: Dey Tamal  K. , Levine Joshua  A.
Published: November 2009

Recently a Delaunay refinement algorithm has been proposed that can mesh piecewise smooth complexes which include polyhedra, smooth and piecewise smooth surfaces, and non-manifolds. However, this algorithm employs domain dependent numerical predicates, some of which could be computationally expensive and hard to implement. In this paper we develop a refinement strategy that eliminates these complicated domain dependent predicates. As a result we obtain a meshing algorithm that is practical and implementation-friendly.
Agreement between the SCORE and D’Agostino Scales for the Classification of High Cardiovascular Risk in Sedentary Spanish Patients
Authors: Gómez-Marcos Manuel A. , Grandes Gonzalo , Iglesias-Valiente José A. , Sánchez Alvaro , Montoya Imanol , García-Ortiz Luis , Group PEPAF
Published: November 2009

Background: To evaluate agreement between cardiovascular risk in sedentary patients as estimated by the new Framingham-D’Agostino scale and by the SCORE chart, and to describe the patient characteristics associated with the observed disagreement between the scales. Design: A cross-sectional study was undertaken involving a systematic sample of 2,295 sedentary individuals between 40–65 years of age seen for any reason in 56 primary care offices. An estimation was made of the Pearson correlation coefficient and kappa statistic for the classification of high risk subjects (≥20% according to the Framingham-D’Agostino scale, and ≥5% according to SCORE). Polytomous logistic regression models were fitted to identify the variables associated with the discordance between the two scales. Results: The mean risk in males (35%) was 19.5% ± 13% with D’Agostino scale, and 3.2% ± 3.3% with SCORE. Among females, they were 8.1% ± 6.8% and 1.2% ± 2.2%, respectively. The correlation between the two scales was 0.874 in males (95% CI: 0.857–0.889) and 0.818 in females (95% CI: 0.800–0.834), while the kappa index was 0.50 in males (95% CI: 0.44%–0.56%) and 0.61 in females (95% CI: 0.52%–0.71%). The most frequent disagreement, characterized by high risk according to D’Agostino scale but not according to SCORE, was much more prevalent among males and proved more probable with increasing age and increased LDL-cholesterol, triglyceride and systolic blood pressure values, as well as among those who used antihypertensive drugs and smokers. Conclusions: The quantitative correlation between the two scales is very high. Patient categorization as corresponding to high risk generates disagreements, mainly among males, where agreement between the two classifications is only moderate.
Peanut Skin Color: A Biomarker for Total Polyphenolic Content and Antioxidative Capacities of Peanut Cultivars
Authors: Chukwumah Yvonne , Walker Lloyd  T. , Verghese Martha
Published: November 2009

Attempts to establish a relationship between peanut skin color (PSC) and total flavonoid (TF) content have produced inconclusive results. This study investigated the potential of PSC as a biomarker for polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. Peanut cultivars were objectively evaluated for their skin color, total phenolic (TP), flavonoid (TF), proanthocyanidin (TPC) contents and antioxidant capacities (AC). Their relationship was determined by Pearson’s correlation analyses. TP had stronger correlations with CIE a*, hue angle and AC (r2 = 0.77, 0.82 and 0.80, respectively) compared to TF. Therefore, hue angle of peanut skin may be used as a biomarker for TP content rather than TF.
Correction: Zhou, Z.-B. et al. Receptor-Mediated Vascular Smooth Muscle Migration Induced by LPA Involves p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway Activation. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2009, 10, 3194-3208
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Bin , Niu Jian-Ping , Zhang Zhi-Jun
Published: November 2009

Due to personal reasons, I left the research group. In accordance with the regulations of the funding institution, Xiamen Health Administration, China, I hereby declare a withdrawal of my signature, Zhi-Jun Zhang, from this paper. [...]
Effect of Hydraulic Activity on Crystallization of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) for Eco-Friendly Paper
Authors: Kim Jung-Ah , Han Gi-Chun , Lim Mihee , You Kwang-Suk , Ryu Miyoung , Ahn Ji-Whan , Fujita Toyohisa , Kim Hwan
Published: November 2009

Wt% of aragonite, a CaCO3 polymorph, increased with higher hydraulic activity (°C) of limestone in precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) from the lime-soda process (Ca(OH)2-NaOH-Na2CO3). Only calcite, the most stable polymorph, was crystallized at hydraulic activity under 10 °C, whereas aragonite also started to crystallize over 10 °C. The crystallization of PCC is more dependent on the hydraulic activity of limestone than CaO content, a factor commonly used to classify limestone ores according to quality. The results could be effectively applied to the determination of polymorphs in synthetic PCC for eco-friendly paper manufacture.
Combined Thermodynamic-Kinetic Analysis of the Interfacial Reactions between Ni Metallization and Various Lead-Free Solders
Authors: Laurila Tomi , Vuorinen Vesa
Published: November 2009

In this paper we will demonstrate how a thermodynamic-kinetic method can be utilized to rationalize a wide range of interfacial phenomena between Sn-based lead-free solders and Ni metallizations. First, the effect of P on the interfacial reactions, and thus on the reliability, between Sn-based solders and electroless Ni/immersion Au (ENIG) metallizations, will be discussed. Next, the effect of small amounts of Cu in Sn-based solders on the intermetallic compound (IMC), which forms first on top of Ni metallization, will be covered. With the help of thermodynamic arguments a so called critical Cu concentration for the formation of (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 can be determined as a function of temperature. Then the important phenomenon of redeposition of (Au,Ni)Sn4 layer on top of Ni3Sn4 IMC will be discussed in detail. The reasons leading to this behaviour will be rationalized with the help of thermodynamic information and an explanation of why this phenomenon does not occur when an appropriate amount of Cu is present in the soldering system will be given. Finally, interfacial reaction issues related to low temperature Sn-Zn and Sn-Bi based solders and Ni metallization will be discussed.
Remote Sensing and Spectral Characteristics of Desert Sand from Qatar Peninsula, Arabian/Persian Gulf
Authors: Sadiq Abdulali , Howari Fares
Published: November 2009

Remote sensing data can provide valuable information about the surface expression of regional geomorphologic and geological features of arid regions. In the present study, several processing techniques were applied to reveal such in the Qatar Peninsula. Those included preprocessing for radiometric and geometric correction, various enhancement methods, classification, accuracy assessment, contrast stretching, color composition, and principal component analyses. Those were coupled with field groundtruthing and lab analyses. Field groundtruthing included one hundred and forty measurements of spectral reflectance for various sediment exposures representing main sand types in the four studied parts in Qatar. Lab investigations included grain size analysis, X-ray diffraction and laboratory measurements of spectral reflectance. During the course of this study three sand types have been identified: (i) sabkha-derived salt-rich, quartz sand, and (ii) beach-derived calcareous sand and (iii) aeolian dune quartz. Those areas are spectrally distinct in the VNIR, suggesting that VNIR spectral data can be used to discriminate them. The study found that the main limitation of the ground spectral reflectance study is the difficulty of covering large areas. The study also found that ground and laboratory spectral radiance are generally higher in reflectance than those of Landsat TM. This is due to several factors such as atmospheric conditions, the low altitude or different scales. Whereas for areas with huge size of dune sand, the Landsat TM spectral has higher reflectance than those from field and laboratory. The study observed that there is a good correspondence or correlation of the wavelengths maximum sensitivity between the three spectral measurements i.e lab, field and space-borne measurements.
LiDAR Utility for Natural Resource Managers
Authors: Hudak Andrew Thomas , Evans Jeffrey Scott , Stuart Smith Alistair Matthew
Published: November 2009

Applications of LiDAR remote sensing are exploding, while moving from the research to the operational realm. Increasingly, natural resource managers are recognizing the tremendous utility of LiDAR-derived information to make improved decisions. This review provides a cross-section of studies, many recent, that demonstrate the relevance of LiDAR across a suite of terrestrial natural resource disciplines including forestry, fire and fuels, ecology, wildlife, geology, geomorphology, and surface hydrology. We anticipate that interest in and reliance upon LiDAR for natural resource management, both alone and in concert with other remote sensing data, will continue to rapidly expand for the foreseeable future.
Analysis of Land Use/Cover Changes and Animal Population Dynamics in a Wildlife Sanctuary in East Africa
Authors: Ndegwa Mundia Charles , Murayama Yuji
Published: November 2009

Changes in wildlife conservation areas have serious implications for ecological systems and the distribution of wildlife species. Using the Masai Mara ecosystem as an example, we analyzed long-term land use/cover changes and wildlife population dynamics. Multitemporal satellite images, together with physical and social economic data were employed in a post classification analysis with GIS to analyze outcomes of different land use practices and policies. The results show rapid land use/cover conversions and a drastic decline for a wide range of wildlife species. Integration of land use/cover monitoring data and wildlife resources data can allow for the analysis of changes, and can be used to project trends to provide knowledge about potential land use/cover change scenarios and ecological impacts.
An Improved ASTER Index for Remote Sensing of Crop Residue
Authors: Serbin Guy , Hunt E. Raymond , Daughtry Craig S. T. , McCarty Gregory W. , Doraiswamy Paul C.
Published: November 2009

Unlike traditional ground-based methodology, remote sensing allows for the rapid estimation of crop residue cover (fR). While the Cellulose Absorption Index (CAI) is ideal for fR estimation, a new index, the Shortwave Infrared Normalized Difference Residue Index (SINDRI), utilizing ASTER bands 6 and 7, is proposed for future multispectral sensors and would be less costly to implement. SINDRI performed almost as well as CAI and better than other indices at five locations in the USA on multiple dates. A minimal upgrade from one broad band to two narrow bands would provide fR data for carbon cycle modeling and tillage verification.
A Robust Head Tracking System Based on Monocular Vision and Planar Templates
Authors: Caballero Fernando , Maza Iván , Molina Roberto , Esteban David , Ollero Aníbal
Published: November 2009

This paper details the implementation of a head tracking system suitable for its use in teleoperation stations or control centers, taking into account the limitations and constraints usually associated to those environments. The paper discusses and justifies the selection of the different methods and sensors to build the head tracking system, detailing also the processing steps of the system in operation. A prototype to validate the proposed approach is also presented along with several tests in a real environment with promising results.
A Novel Neural Network-Based Technique for Smart Gas Sensors Operating in a Dynamic Environment
Authors: Baha Hakim , Dibi Zohir
Published: November 2009

Thanks to their high sensitivity and low-cost, metal oxide gas sensors (MOX) are widely used in gas detection, although they present well-known problems (lack of selectivity and environmental effects…). We present in this paper a novel neural network- based technique to remedy these problems. The idea is to create intelligent models; the first one, called corrector, can automatically linearize a sensor’s response characteristics and eliminate its dependency on the environmental parameters. The corrector’s responses are processed with the second intelligent model which has the role of discriminating exactly the detected gas (nature and concentration). The gas sensors used are industrial resistive kind (TGS8xx, by Figaro Engineering). The MATLAB environment is used during the design phase and optimization. The sensor models, the corrector, and the selective model were implemented and tested in the PSPICE simulator. The sensor model accurately expresses the nonlinear character of the response and the dependence on temperature and relative humidity in addition to their gas nature dependency. The corrector linearizes and compensates the sensor’s responses. The method discriminates qualitatively and quantitatively between seven gases. The advantage of the method is that it uses a small representative database so we can easily implement the model in an electrical simulator. This method can be extended to other sensors.
Autonomous Distributed Self-Organization for Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wen Chih-Yu , Tang Hung-Kai
Published: November 2009

This paper presents an adaptive combined-metrics-based clustering scheme for mobile wireless sensor networks, which manages the mobile sensors by utilizing the hierarchical network structure and allocates network resources efficiently. A local criteria is used to help mobile sensors form a new cluster or join a current cluster. The messages transmitted during hierarchical clustering are applied to choose distributed gateways such that communication for adjacent clusters and distributed topology control can be achieved. In order to balance the load among clusters and govern the topology change, a cluster reformation scheme using localized criterions is implemented. The proposed scheme is simulated and analyzed to abstract the network behaviors in a number of settings. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm provides efficient network topology management and achieves high scalability in mobile sensor networks.
H2 Sensing Response of Flame-spray-made Ru/SnO2 Thick Films Fabricated from Spin-Coated Nanoparticles
Authors: Liewhiran Chaikarn , Tamaekong Nittaya , Wisitsoraat Anurat , Phanichphant Sukon
Published: November 2009

High specific surface area (SSABET: 141.6 m2/g) SnO2 nanoparticles doped with 0.2–3 wt% Ru were successfully produced in a single step by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP). The phase and crystallite size were analyzed by XRD. The specific surface area (SSABET) of the nanoparticles was measured by nitrogen adsorption (BET analysis). As the Ru concentration increased, the SSABET was found to linearly decrease, while the average BET-equivalent particle diameter (dBET) increased. FSP yielded small Ru particles attached to the surface of the supporting SnO2 nanoparticles, indicating a high SSABET. The morphology and accurate size of the primary particles were further investigated by TEM. The crystallite sizes of the spherical, hexagonal, and rectangular SnO2 particles were in the range of 3–10 nm. SnO2 nanorods were found to range from 3–5 nm in width and 5–20 nm in length. Sensing films were prepared by the spin coating technique. The gas sensing of H2 (500–10,000 ppm) was studied at the operating temperatures ranging from 200–350 °C in presence of dry air. After the sensing tests, the morphology and the cross-section of sensing film were analyzed by SEM and EDS analyses. The 0.2%Ru-dispersed on SnO2 sensing film showed the highest sensitivity and a very fast response time (6 s) compared to a pure SnO2 sensing film, with a highest H2 concentration of 1 vol% at 350 °C and a low H2 detection limit of 500 ppm at 200 °C.
Development of a complex floral trait: The pollinator‐attracting petal spots of the beetle daisy, Gorteria diffusa (Asteraceae)
Authors: Thomas Meredith M. , Rudall Paula J. , Ellis Allan G. , Savolainen Vincent , Glover Beverley J.
Published: November 2009

Angiosperms possess a variety of complex floral traits that attract animal pollinators. Dark petal spots have evolved independently many times across the angiosperm phylogeny and have been shown to attract insect pollinators from several lineages. Here we present new data on the ontogeny and morphological complexity of the elaborate insect‐mimicking petal spots of the South African daisy species, Gorteria diffusa (Asteraceae), commonly known as the beetle daisy, although it is fly‐pollinated. Using light and scanning electron microscopy and histology, we identified three distinct specialized cell types of the petal epidermis that compose the petal spot. Sophisticated patterning of pigments, cuticular elaborations, and multicellular papillate trichomes make the G. diffusa petal spot a uniquely complex three‐dimensional floral ornament. Examination of young inflorescence meristems revealed that G. diffusa ray florets develop (and probably also initiate) basipetally, in the opposite direction to the disc florets—a developmental phenomenon that has been found in some other daisies, but which contradicts conventional theories of daisy inflorescence architecture. Using these ontogenetic and morphological data, we have identified the mechanism by which G. diffusa patterns its insect‐mimicking petal spots, and we propose a testable model for the genetic regulation of petal spot identity.