bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teeth size reduction in the prehistoric populations in Serbia
Authors: Pajevic Tina , Sessa Tijana , Juloski Jovana , Glisic Branislav
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Anthropological studies show craniofacial changes with a
reduction in teeth size during evolution of the human population. Objective.
The objective was to measure and compare the sizes of teeth in the population
of the Mesolithic-Neolithic sites in the Iron Gate Gorge and the population
from the Early Bronze Age site of Mokrin. Methods. The study included teeth
without advanced wear near the pulp. The material was divided according to
the site of the skeletal population in two groups. Group 1 comprised 107
teeth from the Mesolithic-Neolithic sites Lepenski Vir and Vlasac. Group 2
included 158 teeth from the Mokrin graveyard dated in the Early Bronze Age.
The mesio-distal diameter was measured in all teeth, while the vestibulo-oral
diameter was measured in the molars only. Using the two-factor analysis of
variance, the influence of sex, site and their interaction on the size of the
teeth were investigated. Results. The vestibulo-oral diameter of the upper
third molar was significantly higher in males compared to females. The
comparison between the groups showed that the vestibulooral diameter of the
lower first molar was significantly higher in group 1. Conclusion. The
present difference in teeth size indicates the existence of reduction during
the prehistoric times. However, the time period between the populations
studied is probably too short to be manifested on a large number of teeth.
Prospective follow-up of nebivolol in the treatment of arterial hypertension
Authors: Despotovic Nebojsa , Matic-Cvetkovic Danica , Ivanovic Branislava
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Nebivolol, a third-generation beta-blocker (BB) shows a highly
selective beta-blockade and specific vasodilating effects due to getting free
nitro-oxide from the dysfunctional endothelium. Objective. The aim of the
study was to investigate the antihypertensive effect of nebivolol in patients
with arterial hypertension (AH) of both sexes. Methods. Systolic and
diastolic blood pressure (BP), heart rate and serum glycemia, creatinin,
cholesterol and trygliceride were measured after a 6-week treatment with a
single 5 mg dose of nebivolol once daily so as to assess its efficacy and
metabolic effects, as well as its tolerance by using a questionnaire answered
by physicians and patients. Results. Out of 520 patients with mild or
moderate AH, 430 (82.7%) were treated with nebivolol as monotherapy. After a
6-week treatment with nebivolol, with very good tolerability and neutral
metabolic effects, systolic BP was significantly decreased (in male from
initial 165?19 to 129?12 mm Hg, and female from initial 169?22 to 132?15 mm
Hg at the end of the study; average decrease 22.3%, p<0.001) and as well as
diastolic BP (male from initial 103?12 to 79?6 mm Hg and female from initial
100?9 to 82?7 mm Hg, average decrease 22.6%; p<0.001). Conclusion. After a
6-week treatment nebivolol significantly decreased systolic and diastolic BP
in patients with mild and moderate AH, independently of the sex.
Efficacy and safety of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin treatment of chronic hepatitis C in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Bozic Milena , Bojovic Ksenija , Fabri Milotka , Nozic Darko , Trkulja Bojan , Milosevic Ivana
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the main causes of
chronic liver disease worldwide. Pegylated interferon alfa-2a or 2b (PEG IFN
alfa-2a or 2b) and ribavirin (RBV) represent a standard treatment of chronic
hepatitis C (CHC). Sustained virological response (SVR), defined as continued
undetectable HCV RNA 24 weeks after completion of treatment, is universally
considered as an indicator of treatment efficacy. Objective. The aim of this
study was to determine efficacy and safety of PEG IFN alfa-2a and RBV
treatment in patients with CHC in Serbia. Methods. One hundred seventy-six
patients with CHC were included in this multicenter trial from 8 reference
centers in Serbia. The patients were treated with standard PEG IFN alfa- 2a
and RBV protocol. We performed the following virological testing: anti-HCV
(ELISA), HCV RNK (quantitative PCR), HCV genotype (type-specific PCR), HBsAg,
anti-HBs, anti-HBc and anti-HIV (ELISA). Histological activity and the degree
of fibrosis were determined according to the Metavir scoring system.
Potential predictors for achieving SVR were evaluated using multivariable
logistic regression analysis. Results. Of the treated patients with CHC 65.9%
were male, and 60.2% of them aged over 40 years. Of the treated patients
68.2% had infection over 5 years, 63% had HCV RNA >400.000 IU/mL, 76.1% had
HCV G1/4, and 60.1% had a mild to moderate liver fibrosis. SVR was achieved
in 78.9% of patients (G1/4 79.1%; G2/3 78.1%). The factors that indicated a
poorer efficacy of the treatment were age >40 (p<0.05), high basal viremia
(p=0.013), and the reduction of PEG IFN alfa-2a and RBV doses, with
interruption of therapy (p<0.001). Of the treated patients 45.9% had adverse
affects (G1/4 50.8%; G2/3 29.7%). Conclusion. Treatment of CHC with PEG IFN
alfa-2a and RBV was efficient in 78.9% of patients. The safety profile of
therapy was satisfactory. Longer therapy increases the possibility of the
development of adverse affects. No life-threatening adverse effects were
recorded in our patients.
Efficiency of fenticonazole for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis
Authors: Zivaljevic Biljana , Golubovic Ilija , Seratlic Jelena , Nikolic Petar , Simic Dusan , Magdic Ivica , Maric-Krejovic Snezana , Markovic-Knezevic Danijela , Krsmanovic Snezana
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis appears in 75% women of
reproductive age. The most frequent causes are Candida albicans (85-95%) or
C. glabrata, and infrequently C. krusei, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C.
pseudotropicalis, etc. Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate
efficiency and safety of fenticonazole for vaginal candidiasis treatment.
Methods. Therapeutic effect of a single 600 mg fenticonasole vaginal capsule
was observed in 417 women, aged 16-67, in five centers in Serbia. In all
women, before the treatment, vaginal candidiasis was confirmed by testing of
vaginal smear. Based on smear findings and associated symptoms observed on
the 7th and 28th day after therapy administration, treatment results were
evaluated. On the next day after drug application the patients recorded by
using a questionnaire their own feelings on withdrawal symptoms and possible
side effects in the period prior to the first control. Results. Control after
seven days showed a statistically significant decrease of symptoms. In 385
women, vaginal smear was found negative to yeast and yeast blastospores.
Within the first seven days after treatment 84 women had to repeat therapy
due to the persistence of symptoms or positive vaginal smear. After 28 days
we recorded full recovery in 392 patients, clinical improvement in eight, no
change in 16, and deterioration in one patient only. Side effects were very
seldom, mostly in the form of a slight redness of the vulva and vagina, and
mild itching during several days. Conclusion. Our observations confirmed good
efficacy and safety of fenticonazole in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis.
Teaching about quality improvement in specialist training for family medicine in Slovenia
Authors: Petek-Ster Marija , Mihailovic Igor , Svab Igor , Kersnik Janko
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Quality is a part of curricula in medical schools worldwide. It
has a special position in family medicine, because it follows specific rules
that are adapted to this discipline. Because of its specificities, teaching
quality is even more important to become a part of specialist training
curricula. Objective. Our aim was to describe quality improvement in family
medicine specialist training curriculum in Slovenia and its practical
implications and experiences. Methods. The paper describes the family
medicine specialist training curriculum also including the topic on the ways
quality improvement. Assignments and research protocols are used to enhance
the usage of quality methods in everyday practice. An example of such a
research protocol, developed by one of the trainees, is used to illustrate
the process. Trainees? evaluations of the quality improvement curriculum are
analyzed. Results. In the quality improvement project, 199 patients with
arterial hypertension younger than 80 years were included. At the first
measurement only 21 patients (10.6%) had their blood pressure within the
recommended level. Six months after the quality improvement intervention 77
patients (38.9%) had controlled their blood pressure, a statistically
significant improvement (p<0.001). Conclusion. Teaching quality in family
medicine must be a generic part of specialist training curriculum. The use of
specific assignments can underpin the necessity to use methods that follow
the principles of modern education. The result of teaching process can be
even measured in actual improvement in the quality of care.
Successful non-standard approaches to massive hemoptysis in invasive pulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Mitrovic Mirjana , Elezovic Ivo , Suvajdzic-Vukovic Nada , Antic Darko
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IA) is the most frequent
invasive fungal infection in patients with hematological malignancies.
Massive hemoptysis (MH) with blood loss more than 300- 600 ml in 24 hours is
a rare (5-10% of IA patients) but frequently fatal complication. Standard
treatment of MH, such as oxygenation, a semi-sitting position with the
bleeding site down, bronchoscopical suctioning, antifungal therapy,
transfusion support and surgical resection might be either ineffective or not
feasible in some cases. Outline of Cases. We report two patients with life
threatening, non-controlled, massive hemoptysis who were successfully managed
by non-standard measures. A 61-year-old male with acute myeloid leukemia
developed pulmonary IA and massive hemoptysis after consolidation cure by
chemotherapy. The bleeding site was localized in the VI lung segment by
bronchoscopy. Local application of fibrinogen-thrombin concentrate (fibrin
glue) stopped the bleeding. A 22-year-old female patient with the diagnosis
of severe aplastic anemia developed IA and massive hemoptysis early after
application of immunosuppressive therapy (antilymphocyte globulin,
cyclosporine and corticosteroids). Conventional transfusion therapy,
desmopresine and antifibrinolytics were ineffective. This urgent condition
was successfully treated with human activated recombinant factor VII (rFVIIa,
NovoSeven?). Conclusion. Our experience together with data from the available
literature suggests a potential benefit of fibrinogen-thrombin concentrate
and rFVIIa in the treatment of refractory critical bleeding in
hematooncological patients.
Congenital arteriovenous fistula of the horseshoe kidney with multiple hemangiomas
Authors: Lazic Miodrag , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan , Basic Dragoslav , Acimovic Miodrag
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Congenital renal arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) are rare,
especially if they are associated with other developmental renal anomalies.
Case Outline. A 34-year-old female was hospitalized due to total painless
hematuria and bladder tamponade. Excretory urography revealed a horseshoe
kidney with normal morphology of pyelocaliceal system and ureters.
Aortography and selective renovasography detected a cluster-like vascular
formation with multiple arteriovenous fistulas (AVF). Due to a large AVF
gauge and poor flow of the efferent vein to the inferior vena cava, a
surgical procedure of two renal artery segmentary branches ligation and
division was performed. During the operative procedure, the presence of
multiple superficial renal hemangiomas was detected. Conclusion. Although
selective arterial embolization represents the preferable treatment option,
conventional surgery remains favorable alternative in selected cases with
large and complex AVF.
Atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass surgery: Possibilities of prevention
Authors: Obrenovic-Kircanski Biljana , Orbovic Bojana , Vranes Mile , Parapid Biljana , Kovacevic-Kostic Natasa , Velinovic Milos , Ristic Stana
Published: October 2012

Atrial fibrillation occurs as a frequent complication after cardiac
interventions. It can be found in 5% of all surgical patients, and it is far
more common in cardiac (10% - 65% of patients) than in non-cardiac
procedures. In a number of patients it remains asymptomatic, but may be
accompanied by very severe symptoms of hypotension, heart failure, syncope,
systemic or pulmonary embolism, perioperative myocardial infarction,
cerebrovascular insult and increased operative mortality. Patients whose
postoperative course is complicated by atrial fibrillation require longer
hospitalization. Possible predisposing factors of this arrhythmia are
numerous and are associated with surgery, extensive coronary heart disease
and revascularization, and preoperative diseases. According to the
recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology orally applied
beta-blocker, amiodarone and sotalol can be used for prophylaxis of atrial
fibrillation. Following the recommendations, treatment of postoperative
atrial fibrillation should include beta-blockers, amiodarone, and in patients
with heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction, digoxin. Due to the
increased risk of stroke, an anticoagulant protection is necessary. Many
studies have been conducted with results supporting the prophylactic use of
amiodarone and beta-blockers, while the treatment with new agents such as
magnesium, statins, omega-3 fatty acids and inhibitors of the
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is still being investigated.
Bunion foot
Authors: Vukasinovic Zoran , Mikic Nadan
Published: October 2012

Hallux valgus deformity is a complex chronic progressive disease primarily
characterized by a lateral great toe deviation and deformity of the first
metatarsophalageal joint. Numerous etiological factors are related with the
expression of this disease, and they are divided into two categories:
endogenous and exogenous. Complexity of the hallux valgus deformity is
reflected with the progression of the disease that gives rise to numerous
forefoot deformities. The diagnosis is first of all affirmed by clinical
examination and x-ray of the feet in a standing position. Treatment could be
either operative or conservative. Conservative treatment has shown to be
totally unsuccessful. Before decision making on the type of operative
treatment, the patient?s complaints, age, profession, clinical and x-ray
findings must be taken into consideration. Until now, over two hundred
different operative procedures have been described, which clearly supports
the observation that there is no single method which could resolve all
clinical varieties of this deformity. Therefore, today, when making a choice
on the surgical procedure of hallux valgus deformity, the utilization of
surgical algorithm is recommended.
A demand independent inventory model
Authors: Lin Jennifer , Chao Henry , Julian Peterson
Published: October 2012

This paper is an extension of Deng et al. (2007) that was published in the
European Journal of Operational Research. We have generalized their model
from ramp type demand to arbitrary positive demand while theoretically
discovering an important phenomenon: the optimal solution is actually
independent of the demand as pointed out by Wou (2010), Hung (2011) and Lin
(2011). We extend their inventory models in which the deteriorated rate is
any non-negative function and backlog rate is inversely linearly related to
the waiting time. Our findings will provide a new inventory system to help
decision makers decide the optimal ordering quantity and replenishment
policy.
Elevated Rates of Diabetes in Pacific Islanders and Asian Subgroups
Authors: Karter Andrew J. , Schillinger Dean , Adams Alyce S. , Moffet Howard H. , Liu Jennifer , Adler Nancy E. , Kanaya Alka M.
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

We estimated the prevalence and incidence of diabetes among specific subgroups of Asians and Pacific Islanders (APIs) in a multiethnic U.S. population with uniform access to care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This prospective cohort analysis included 2,123,548 adult members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California, including 1,704,363 with known race/ethnicity (white, 56.9%; Latino, 14.9%; African American, 8.0%; Filipino, 4.9%; Chinese, 4.0%; multiracial, 2.8%; Japanese, 0.9%; Native American, 0.6%; Pacific Islander, 0.5%; South Asian, 0.4%; and Southeast Asian, Korean, and Vietnamese, 0.1% each). We calculated age-standardized (to the 2010 U.S. population) and sex-adjusted diabetes prevalence at baseline and incidence (during the 2010 calendar year). Poisson models were used to estimate relative risks.

RESULTS

There were 210,632 subjects with prevalent diabetes as of 1 January 2010 and 15,357 incident cases of diabetes identified during 2010. The crude diabetes prevalence was 9.9% and the incidence was 8.0 cases per 1,000 person-years and, after standardizing by age and sex to the 2010 U.S. Census, 8.9% and 7.7 cases per 1,000 person-years. There was considerable variation among the seven largest API subgroups. Pacific Islanders, South Asians, and Filipinos had the highest prevalence (18.3, 15.9, and 16.1%, respectively) and the highest incidence (19.9, 17.2, and 14.7 cases per 1,000 person-years, respectively) of diabetes among all racial/ethnic groups, including minorities traditionally considered high risk (e.g., African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans).

CONCLUSIONS

High rates of diabetes among Pacific Islanders, South Asians, and Filipinos are obscured by much lower rates among the large population of Chinese and several smaller Asian subgroups.
Diabetes Genetic Predisposition Score and Cardiovascular Complications Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Qi Qibin , Meigs James B. , Rexrode Kathryn M. , Hu Frank B. , Qi Lu
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes (T2D) and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among patients with T2D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The current study included 1,012 men and 1,310 women with T2D from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study and Nurses’ Health Study, including 677 patients with CVD and 1,645 non-CVD control subjects. A genetic predisposition score (GPS) was calculated on the basis of 36 established independent diabetes-predisposing variants.

RESULTS

Each additional diabetes-risk allele in the GPS was associated with a 3% increased risk of CVD (odds ratio [OR] 1.03 [95% CI 1.00–1.06]). The OR was 1.47 (1.11–1.95) for CVD risk by comparing extreme quartiles of the GPS (P for trend = 0.01). We also found that the GPS was positively associated with hemoglobin A1c levels (P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Genetic predisposition to T2D is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with T2D.
Insulin Resistance, Brain Atrophy, and Cognitive Performance in Late Middle–Aged Adults
Authors: Willette Auriel A. , Xu Guofan , Johnson Sterling C. , Birdsill Alex C. , Jonaitis Erin M. , Sager Mark A. , Hermann Bruce P. , La Rue Asenath , Asthana Sanjay , Bendlin Barbara B.
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance dysregulates glucose uptake and other functions in brain areas affected by Alzheimer disease. Insulin resistance may play a role in Alzheimer disease etiopathogenesis. This longitudinal study examined whether insulin resistance among late middle–aged, cognitively healthy individuals was associated with 1) less gray matter in Alzheimer disease–sensitive brain regions and 2) worse cognitive performance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, gray matter volume, and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) were acquired in 372 participants at baseline and a consecutive subset of 121 individuals ~4 years later. Voxel-based morphometry and tensor-based morphometry were used, respectively, to test the association of insulin resistance with baseline brain volume and progressive gray matter atrophy.

RESULTS

Higher insulin resistance predicted less gray matter at baseline and 4 years later in medial temporal lobe, prefrontal cortices, precuneus, and other parietal gyri. A region-of-interest analysis, independent of the voxel-wise analyses, confirmed that higher insulin resistance was related to medial temporal lobe atrophy. Atrophy itself corresponded to cognitive deficits in the RAVLT. Temporal lobe atrophy that was predicted by higher insulin resistance significantly mediated worse RAVLT encoding performance.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that insulin resistance in an asymptomatic, late middle–aged cohort is associated with progressive atrophy in regions affected by early Alzheimer disease. Insulin resistance may also affect the ability to encode episodic information by negatively influencing gray matter volume in medial temporal lobe.
Unusual Histologic Variant of a Low-Grade Fibromyxoid Sarcoma in a 3-Year-Old Boy with Complex Chromosomal Translocations Involving 7q34, 10q11.2, and 16p11.2 and Rearrangement of the FUS Gene
Authors: Dobin Sheila M. , Malone Vicki S. , Lopez Lisa , Donner Ludvik R.
Published: October 2012

Low-grade fibromyxoid sarcomas are rare, histologically deceptive, cytologically bland tumors that are infrequently encountered in pediatric patients. Our knowledge of histologic spectrum of these tumors is limited. A histologically unusual variant of a low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma arising in a 3-year-old boy and containing islands of cohesive epithelioid cells is described. The diagnosis was, given the patient's age and the presence of epithelioid islands, very difficult and was verified by the presence of 3-way chromosomal translocations involving 7q34, 10q11.2, and 16p11.2 by rearrangement of the FUS gene and by immunoreactivity for mucin 4.
Gastric foreign body as a risk factor for gastric dilatation and volvulus in dogs
Authors: de Battisti Anna , Toscano Michael J. , Formaggini Luca
Published: October 2012

Objective—To evaluate whether the presence of a gastric foreign body (gFB) is a significant risk factor for gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) in dogs and to quantify the change in likelihood of developing GDV associated with the presence of a gFB.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—118 large- or giant-breed dogs treated surgically for an episode of GDV and 342 large- or giant-breed dogs (> 12 months old) that underwent abdominal surgery for reasons other than GDV.

Procedures—During exploratory celiotomy, all dogs underwent palpation and visual examination of the entire gastrointestinal tract. A foreign body was defined as nondigestible or slowly digestible material palpated during gastrointestinal tract examination that was causing clinical signs or was > 10 cm in length or > 2 cm in width.

Results—The incidence of gFBs was significantly higher in the group of dogs with GDV. The presence of a gFB, age, weight, and purebred status were significant risk factors for GDV. Odds ratios were calculated for gFB (OR, 4.920), age (OR, 1.157), weight (OR, 0.958) and purebred status (OR, 4.836).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gastric foreign body was found to be a significant risk factor for GDV in dogs. The study findings suggested that a large- or giant-breed dog with a gFB was approximately 5 times as likely to develop GDV as a similar dog with no gFB. Results indicated that there was a strong correlation between gFB and GDV in dogs. However, further cohort studies are needed to determine whether there is a causal relationship between the presence of a gFB and the development of GDV in dogs.
Electrophysiological features in dogs with peripheral nerve sheath tumors: 51 cases (1993–2010)
Authors: le Chevoir Matthias , Thibaud Jean Laurent , Labruyère Julien , Uriarte Ane , De Fornel-Thibaud Pauline , Moissonnier Pierre , Delisle Françoise , Blot Stéphane
Published: October 2012

Objective—To determine the electrophysiological changes in dogs with peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs), evaluate the prevalence of these changes, assess the correlation between spontaneous activity in epaxial muscles and proximal invasion by the tumor, and evaluate whether knowledge of electrophysiological changes could be helpful in the imaging diagnosis via CT or MRI.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—51 dogs with a histologic (n = 18) or a suspected (33) diagnosis of PNST.

Procedures—Clinical, postmortem, and histologic reports and details of electrodiagnostic procedures and CT or MRI reports were studied. Twenty-four CT and 6 MRI reports for dogs with PNSTs were reviewed by a single observer blinded to the diagnosis.

Results—Only 2 of the 51 dogs had no electrophysiological changes. The most commonly affected muscles were those innervated by the radial, ulnar, median, tibial-sciatic, and peroneal nerves. Abnormal spontaneous epaxial muscle activity was significantly more frequent in the group with foraminal or spinal invasion by the tumors. Knowledge of the electrophysiological changes increased diagnostic accuracy of CT.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that electrophysiological studies may be sensitive for the detection of PNST and helpful in the imaging diagnosis. Epaxial electromyographic abnormalities appeared to be predictive for intervertebral or vertebral canal invasion by PNSTs in dogs.
Adherence of the NTP to DOTS recommended defaulters tracing mechanism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Afridi NK , Fatima S , Khan S , Thapa B
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Tuberculosis is still a major public health problem worldwide. Pakistan is one of the few countries with extremely high tuberculosis (TB) incidence and ranks sixth among the 22 high TB burden countries. World Health Organization (WHO) and International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (IUATLD) advocate the use of DOTS strategy to control tuberculosis. The study aimed to determine the adherence of DOTS facilitators and treatment supporters to the defaulter tracing mechanisms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methodology: A Cross Sectional study was conducted in fi ve districts Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A total of 200 participants were included in the study of which 150 were DOTS facilitators and 50 were treatment supporters. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was administered to the participants. Five randomly districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were selected out of the total of 24 districts and from each district 10 health facilities were then chosen. The DOTS facilitator and treatment supporters attached to these health facilities were interviewed. Two Focus Group Discussions were also held from a group of defaulted patients. Results: The study showed that 90% of the health facilities did not have desk guides and 82% of the treatment supporters did not receive training in DOTS strategy. The reasons of defaulting mentioned by DOTS defaulters in the Focus Group Discussion were lack of defaulter tracing mechanism that approach them and health education regarding the hazards of treatment interruption. Conclusion: The study is very signifi cant as it highlights the deficiencies in implementation of DOTS tracing mechanism. The findings of the study could be of help to national as well as provincial tuberculosis programme. The main recommendation is to provide training to treatment supporters in DOTS strategy and to update guidelines for defaulter tracing. SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases & HIV/AIDS 2012; IX (1) 1-7 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/saarctb.v9i1.6958
Registration of ‘Saluki 4910’ Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] with High Yield Potential and Resistance to Multiple Diseases
Authors: Kantartzi Stella K. , Klein James , Schmidt Michael
Published: October 2012

‘Saluki 4910’ (Reg. No. CV‐507, PI 665035) soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] was developed at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, and released in May 2010. The objective was the development of a line with high yield and resistance to the important diseases soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and sudden death syndrome (SDS; caused by Fusarium virguliforme O'Donnell & T. Aoiki, sp. nov.). Saluki 4910 is an F5 selection from the cross of ‘Pana’ and TN96‐58 that advanced from the F2 generation by the modified single‐seed descent method. It is a late maturity group IV (relative maturity 4.9) soybean line that was tested for yield and multiple agronomic traits in four locations in southern Illinois and 14 field environments in the Uniform MG IV‐S Tests, Southern States. In combined analyses across 3 yr (2006–2008) in southern Illinois, Saluki 4910 (LS03‐4294) averaged 3977 kg ha−1, which was 5.9% more than ‘5R531’ and 9.6% more than ‘Manokin’. In the Uniform MG IV‐S Tests, Southern States, the yield of Saluki 4910 averaged 3539 kg ha−1, which was 11.4% better than ‘5002T’, 4.8% better than ‘AG 4403’, 1.9% better than ‘AG 4903’, and 3.8% better than ‘DK 4844’. In the Southern Illinois University SDS and frogeye leaf spot (FLS; caused by Cercospora sojina Hara) trials, Saluki 4910 showed high resistance to both diseases. Additionally, in the USDA Southern Preliminary and Uniform tests, the line showed high resistance to SCN HG Type 0 (Race 3) and stem canker [caused by Diaporthe phaseolorum (Cooke & Ellis) Sacc.],. Saluki 4910 was released because of its usefulness for production in the Midwest due to its competitive yield, relatively high protein content, and resistance to SCN HG Type 0 (Race 3), SDS, FLS, and stem canker, and as a parental line in soybean breeding programs.
Registration of ‘AU‐1101’ Peanut
Authors: Chen Charles Y. , Ernest Harvey J. , Lamb Marshall C. , Touchton Joseph T.
Published: October 2012

‘AU‐1101’ (Reg. No. CV‐117, PI 661498) is a large‐seeded Virginia‐type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) with high yield and medium maturity, uniform pod size and shape, high grade, superior shelling characters, low oil content, normal oleic acid content, and good flavor. AU‐1101 was developed through pedigree selection. AU‐1101 was tested under the experimental designation Exp3‐1114 and was released by the Alabama Crop Improvement Association in 2011. AU‐1101 was tested by Auburn University and the USDA‐ARS National Peanut Research Laboratory in West Texas and the Uniform Peanut Performance Tests as a local option. AU‐1101 has an alternate branching pattern, a prostrate growth habit, and a high percentage of fancy pods and large virginia‐type seeds. It has an even distribution of 39% extra‐large kernels and 35% medium‐size kernels. The seeds have pink testa and the average weight of extra‐large kernels was 105 g per 100 seeds and of medium kernels, 72.1 g per 100 seeds. Approximately 82% of the pods graded as fancy.
Subarachnoid clonidine or fentanyl with low dose hyperbaric bupivacaine for elective caesarean section - A comparative study
Authors: Islam Md Manowarul , Ali Nadeem Parvez , Begum Rabeya , Akhtaruzzaman AKM
Published: October 2012

Background: Preferred technique of anaesthesia for caesarean section is neuraxial block. Hyperbaric bupivacaine in adequate dose for subarachnoid block often causes complications like hypotension, shivering, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and epigastric pain. Objectives: The aim of study is to reduce the complications of subarachnoid block, improve quality of block, quality of anesthesia, prolong duration of post operative analgesia by reducing total dose of local anaesthetics with the use of adjuvant like fentanyl or clonidine. Methods: Ninety parturients of ASA grade I & II for caesarean section under subarachnoid block were randomly allocated equally into three groups: Group B: hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% of 2 ml+ 0.25ml normal saline regarded as controlGroup BC: hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% of 1.75 ml + 0.5 ml clonidine (75 ?g)Group BF: hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% of 1.75 ml + 0.5 ml fentanyl (25 ?g) Parametric data like pulse, blood pressure among the groups were analyzed by ANOVA test & nonparametric data like chest discomfort, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting were analyzed by chi-square test. Results: The study revealed that subarachnoid clonidine or fentanyl as adjuvant with low dose hyperbaric bupivacaine provide better quality of block, better quality of anaesthesia,more haemodynamical stability and longer duration of post operative analgesia compared to bupivacaine alone.Clonidine is better alternative to fentanyl as adjuvant with bupivacine in subarachnoid block. Conclusion: Addition of clonidine as adjuvant can reduce total dose of bupivacaine in subarachnoid block to ensure better quality of block, better quality of anaesthesia by reducing complications and longer duration of post operative analgesia compared to fentanyl. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12185 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 14-17
Simultaneous involvement of lungs, larynx and middle ear by tuberculosis -a rare case
Authors: Kabir Iqbal Murshed , Shumon Ahmid Minhas , Atikuzzaman Kazi , Zaman Yeahyea , Rahman Atiqur
Published: October 2012

Simultaneous involvement of lungs, larynx and middle ear by tuberculosis is very rare. We present a rare case of simultaneous involvement of larynx and ear in a patient with pulmonary tuberculosis. A 17 years old male presented with fever and cough for 8 months, bilateral deafness for 5 months and hoarseness of voice for 3 months. The patient gave history of anorexia and progressive weight loss and history of close contact with tuberculosis patient. There were coarse crepitations on auscultation of both lungs. Indirect laryngoscopy revealed diffuse nodular swelling as well as thickening of the vocal cords. Examination of both ears revealed pale-yellow granulation tissue. ESR was 94 mm in 1st hour and chest radiograph showed diffuse patchy opacities extending over both lung fields. The results of two sputum examinations showed numerous acid-fast bacilli Histopathologic examination of punch biopsy from right and left ear lesions and biopsy tissue from laryngeal lesion taken by endoscopic instrument revealed granulomatous inflammation histologically consistent with tuberculosis.The patient responded well and promptly to the antituberculous therapy. The aim of this article is to create an awareness of Ear Nose Throat tuberculosis and to consider tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of ear and laryngeal diseases and to emphasize the need for prompt recognition and treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i1.12195 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (01): 53-55
Quality Control System for Beer Developed with Monoclonal Antibodies Specific to Barley Lipid Transfer Protein
Authors: Murakami-Yamaguchi Yukie , Hirose Junko , Kizu Kumiko , Okazaki Fumiko , Fujii Wataru , Narita Hiroshi
Published: October 2012

Non-specific lipid transfer protein (LTP) in barley grain reacted with the IgE in sera drawn from food allergy patients. A sandwich-type of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed with mouse monoclonal antibodies raised against LTP purified with barley flour. This ELISA showed a practical working range of 0.3–3 ng/mL and no cross-reactivity with wheat, adlay and rye. Using this ELISA, LTP was determined in several types of barley-foods, including fermented foods such as malt vinegar, barley-malt miso and beer. LTP content in beer of the same kind was approximately constant, even if manufacturing factory and production days were different. Not only as a factor of foam formation and stability but also as an allergen, controlling and monitoring of LTP in beer should be considered. Taken together, our LTP-detecting ELISA can be proposed as an appropriate system for the quality control of beer.
Feasibility Study of Energy Storage Systems in Wind/Diesel Applications Using the HOMER Model
Authors: Stiel Andrew , Skyllas-Kazacos Maria
Published: October 2012

With an increased focus on solutions to the ensuing “climate crisis”, the need for energy storage systems is becoming increasingly important as a means to increase the penetration of renewable technologies such as wind energy. The Vanadium Redox Battery is one such energy storage system showing considerable potential owing to its flexibility in power output and capacity, high efficiency and long operating life. This study models the use of the Vanadium Redox Battery as an integration technology in realistic large-scale remote wind/diesel power systems using the HOMER Micropower Optimization Model computer program developed by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Results from this modelling demonstrate the significant financial and environmental benefits to be gained in installing energy storage in a wind farm. The storage system considered here was a Vanadium Redox Battery.
Break-Induced Replication and Genome Stability
Authors: Sakofsky Cynthia , Ayyar Sandeep , Malkova Anna
Published: October 2012

Genetic instabilities, including mutations and chromosomal rearrangements, lead to cancer and other diseases in humans and play an important role in evolution. A frequent cause of genetic instabilities is double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs), which may arise from a wide range of exogeneous and endogeneous cellular factors. Although the repair of DSBs is required, some repair pathways are dangerous because they may destabilize the genome. One such pathway, break-induced replication (BIR), is the mechanism for repairing DSBs that possesses only one repairable end. This situation commonly arises as a result of eroded telomeres or collapsed replication forks. Although BIR plays a positive role in repairing DSBs, it can alternatively be a dangerous source of several types of genetic instabilities, including loss of heterozygosity, telomere maintenance in the absence of telomerase, and non-reciprocal translocations. Also, mutation rates in BIR are about 1000 times higher as compared to normal DNA replication. In addition, micro-homology-mediated BIR (MMBIR), which is a mechanism related to BIR, can generate copy-number variations (CNVs) as well as various complex chromosomal rearrangements. Overall, activation of BIR may contribute to genomic destabilization resulting in substantial biological consequences including those affecting human health.
An Electrochemical Immunosensor for Detection of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria Based on Immobilization of Antibodies on Self-Assembled Monolayers-Functionalized Gold Electrode
Authors: Braiek Mohamed , Rokbani Karima , Chrouda Amani , Mrabet Béchir , Bakhrouf Amina , Maaref Abderrazak , Jaffrezic-Renault Nicole
Published: October 2012

The detection of pathogenic bacteria remains a challenge for the struggle against biological weapons, nosocomial diseases, and for food safety. In this research, our aim was to develop an easy-to-use electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923. The biosensor was elaborated by the immobilization of anti-S. aureus antibodies using a self-assembled monolayer (SAMs) of 3-Mercaptopropionic acid (MPA). These molecular assemblies were spontaneously formed by the immersion of the substrate in an organic solvent containing the SAMs that can covalently bond to the gold surface. The functionalization of the immunosensor was characterized using two electrochemical techniques: cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Here, the analysis was performed in phosphate buffer with ferro/ferricyanide as the redox probe. The EIS technique was used for affinity assays: antibody-cell binding. A linear relationship between the increment in the electron transfer resistance (RCT) and the logarithmic value of S. aureus concentration was observed between 10 and 106 CFU/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) was observed at 10 CFU/mL, and the reproducibility was calculated to 8%. Finally, a good selectivity versus E. coli and S. epidermidis was obtained for our developed immunosensor demonstrating its specificity towards only S. aureus.
Mouse Lymphoblastic Leukemias Induced by Aberrant Prdm14 Expression Demonstrate Widespread Copy Number Alterations Also Found in Human ALL
Authors: Simko Stephen J. , Voicu Horatiu , Carofino Brandi L. , Justice Monica J.
Published: October 2012

Aberrant expression and activation of oncogenes in somatic cells has been associated with cancer initiation. Required for reacquisition of pluripotency in the developing germ cell, PRDM14 initiates lymphoblastic leukemia when misexpressed in murine bone marrow. Activation of pluripotency in somatic cells can lead to aneuploidy and copy number alterations during iPS cell generation, and we hypothesized that PRDM14-induced lymphoblastic leukemias would demonstrate significant chromosomal damage. High-resolution oligo array comparative genomic hybridization demonstrated infrequent aneuploidy but frequent amplification and deletion, with amplifications occurring in a 5:1 ratio with deletions. Many deletions (i.e., Cdkn2a, Ebf1, Pax5, Ikzf1) involved B-cell development genes and tumor suppressor genes, recapitulating deletions occurring in human leukemia. Pathways opposing senescence were frequently deactivated via Cdkn2a deletion or Tbx2 amplification, with corollary gene expression. Additionally, gene expression studies of abnormal pre-leukemic B-precursors showed downregulation of genes involved in chromosomal stability (i.e., Xrcc6) and failure to upregulate DNA repair pathways. We propose a model of leukemogenesis, triggered by pluripotency genes like Prdm14, which involves ongoing DNA damage and failure to activate non-homologous end-joining secondary to aberrant gene expression.
Infrared Cloaking, Stealth, and the Second Law of Thermodynamics
Authors: Sheehan Daniel P.
Published: October 2012

Infrared signature management (IRSM) has been a primary aeronautical concern for over 50 years. Most strategies and technologies are limited by the second law of thermodynamics. In this article, IRSM is considered in light of theoretical developments over the last 15 years that have put the absolute status of the second law into doubt and that might open the door to a new class of broadband IR stealth and cloaking techniques. Following a brief overview of IRSM and its current thermodynamic limitations, theoretical and experimental challenges to the second law are reviewed. One proposal is treated in detail: a high power density, solid-state power source to convert thermal energy into electrical or chemical energy. Next, second-law based infrared signature management (SL-IRSM) strategies are considered for two representative military scenarios: an underground installation and a SL-based jet engine. It is found that SL-IRSM could be technologically disruptive across the full spectrum of IRSM modalities, including camouflage, surveillance, night vision, target acquisition, tracking, and homing.
Preliminary Design of a Multi-Column TLP Foundation for a 5-MW Offshore Wind Turbine
Authors: Zhao Yongsheng , Yang Jianmin , He Yanping
Published: October 2012

Currently, floating wind turbines (FWTs) may be the more economical and suitable systems with which to exploit offshore wind energy in deep waters. Among the various types of floating foundations for offshore wind farms, a tension leg platform (TLP) foundation can provide a relatively stable platform for currently available offshore wind turbines without requiring major modifications. In this study, a new multi-column TLP foundation (WindStar TLP) was developed for the NREL 5-MW offshore wind turbine according to site-specific environmental conditions, which are the same as the OC3-Hywind (NREL) conditions. The general arrangement, main structure and mooring system were also designed and investigated through hydrodynamic and natural frequency analyses. The complete system avoids resonance through the rotor excitations. An aero-hydro-servo-elastic coupled analysis was carried out in the time domain with the numerical tool FAST. Statistics of the key parameters were obtained and analysed and comparisons to MIT/NREL TLP are made. As a result, the design requirements were shown to be satisfied, and the proposed WindStar TLP was shown to have favourable motion characteristics under extreme wind and wave conditions with a lighter and smaller structure. The new concept holds great potential for further development.
Residential Solar-Based Seasonal Thermal Storage Systems in Cold Climates: Building Envelope and Thermal Storage
Authors: Hugo Alexandre , Zmeureanu Radu
Published: October 2012

The reduction of electricity use for heating and domestic hot water in cold climates can be achieved by: (1) reducing the heating loads through the improvement of the thermal performance of house envelopes, and (2) using solar energy through a residential solar-based thermal storage system. First, this paper presents the life cycle energy and cost analysis of a typical one-storey detached house, located in Montreal, Canada. Simulation of annual energy use is performed using the TRNSYS software. Second, several design alternatives with improved thermal resistance for walls, ceiling and windows, increased overall air tightness, and increased window-to-wall ratio of South facing windows are evaluated with respect to the life cycle energy use, life cycle emissions and life cycle cost. The solution that minimizes the energy demand is chosen as a reference house for the study of long-term thermal storage. Third, the computer simulation of a solar heating system with solar thermal collectors and long-term thermal storage capacity is presented. Finally, the life cycle cost and life cycle energy use of the solar combisystem are estimated for flat-plate solar collectors and evacuated tube solar collectors, respectively, for the economic and climatic conditions of this study.
A Two-Dimensional Numerical Study of Hydrodynamic, Heat and Mass Transfer and Stability in a Salt Gradient Solar Pond
Authors: Boudhiaf Ridha , Moussa Ali Ben , Baccar Mounir
Published: October 2012

In this work, the problem of hydrodynamic, heat and mass transfer and stability in a salt gradient solar pond has been numerically studied by means of computational fluid dynamics in transient regime. The body of the simulated pond is an enclosure of height H and length L wherein an artificial salinity gradient is created in order to suppress convective motions induced by solar radiation absorption and to stabilize the solar pond during the period of operation. Here we show the distribution of velocity, temperature and salt concentration fields during energy collection and storage in a solar pond filled with water and constituted by three different salinity zones. The bottom of the pond is blackened and the free-surface is subjected to heat losses by convection, evaporation and radiation while the vertical walls are adiabatic and impermeable. The governing equations of continuity, momentum, thermal energy and mass transfer are discretized by finite–volume method in transient regime. Velocity vector fields show the presence of thin convective cells in the upper convective zone (UCZ) and large convective cells in the lower convective zone (LCZ). This study shows the importance of buoyancy ratio in the decrease of temperature in the UCZ and in the preservation of high temperature in the LCZ. It shows also the importance of the thickness of Non-Convective Zone (NCZ) in the reduction of the upwards heat losses.