bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critically Ill Children During the 2009–2010 Influenza Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Randolph Adrienne G. , Vaughn Frances , Sullivan Ryan , Rubinson Lewis , Thompson B. Taylor , Yoon Grace , Smoot Elizabeth , Rice Todd W. , Loftis Laura L. , Helfaer Mark , Doctor Allan , Paden Matthew , Flori Heidi , Babbitt Christopher , Graciano Ana Lia , Gedeit Rainer , Sanders Ronald C. , Giuliano John S. , Zimmerman Jerry , Uyeki Timothy M. ,   for the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigator's Network and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute ARDS Clinical Trials Network
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND:

The 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) (pH1N1) virus continues to circulate worldwide. Determining the roles of chronic conditions and bacterial coinfection in mortality is difficult because of the limited data for children with pH1N1-related critical illness.

METHODS:

We identified children (<21 years old) with confirmed or probable pH1N1 admitted to 35 US PICUs from April 15, 2009, through April 15, 2010. We collected data on demographics, baseline health, laboratory results, treatments, and outcomes.

RESULTS:

Of 838 children with pH1N1 admitted to a PICU, the median age was 6 years, 58% were male, 70% had ≥1 chronic health condition, and 88.2% received oseltamivir (5.8% started before PICU admission). Most patients had respiratory failure with 564 (67.3%) receiving mechanical ventilation; 162 (19.3%) received vasopressors, and 75 (8.9%) died. Overall, 71 (8.5%) of the patients had a presumed diagnosis of early (within 72 hours after PICU admission) Staphylococcus aureus coinfection of the lung with 48% methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA). In multivariable analyses, preexisting neurologic conditions or immunosuppression, encephalitis (1.7% of cases), myocarditis (1.4% of cases), early presumed MRSA lung coinfection, and female gender were mortality risk factors. Among 251 previously healthy children, only early presumed MRSA coinfection of the lung (relative risk: 8 [95% confidence interval: 3.1–20.6]; P < .0001) remained a mortality risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children with preexisting neurologic conditions and immune compromise were at increased risk of pH1N1-associated death after PICU admission. Secondary complications of pH1N1, including myocarditis, encephalitis, and clinical diagnosis of early presumed MRSA coinfection of the lung, were mortality risk factors.
The Association of Acetaminophen and Asthma Prevalence and Severity
Authors: McBride John T.
Published: November 2011

The epidemiologic association between acetaminophen use and asthma prevalence and severity in children and adults is well established. A variety of observations suggest that acetaminophen use has contributed to the recent increase in asthma prevalence in children: (1) the strength of the association; (2) the consistency of the association across age, geography, and culture; (3) the dose-response relationship; (4) the timing of increased acetaminophen use and the asthma epidemic; (5) the relationship between per-capita sales of acetaminophen and asthma prevalence across countries; (6) the results of a double-blind trial of ibuprofen and acetaminophen for treatment of fever in asthmatic children; and (7) the biologically plausible mechanism of glutathione depletion in airway mucosa. Until future studies document the safety of this drug, children with asthma or at risk for asthma should avoid the use of acetaminophen.
Clinical and Microbiologic Evaluation, by Real‐Time Polymerase Chain Reaction, of Non‐Surgical Treatment of Aggressive Periodontitis Associated With Amoxicillin and Metronidazole
Authors: Rodrigues Ariana S. , Lourenção Daniele Salami , Lima Neto Lidio G. , Pannuti Claudio M. , Crespo Hirata Rosario Dominguez , Hirata Mario H. , Lotufo Roberto F.M. , De Micheli Giorgio
Published: November 2011

Background: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the clinical and microbiologic changes resulting from non‐surgical periodontal treatment associated with amoxicillin and metronidazole in individuals with aggressive periodontitis.

Methods: Fifteen individuals with aggressive periodontitis received non‐surgical periodontal treatment and 45 days after completion of treatment were treated with antibiotics. Clinical data and samples of subgingival plaque were collected at baseline, 45 days after the non‐surgical periodontal treatment, and 1 month after the use of antimicrobial agents. After 3 and 6 months, only clinical data were collected. The presence and quantification of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Tannerella forsythia (Tf), Treponema denticola (Td), and Dialister pneumosintes were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results: All clinical parameters, with the exception of clinical attachment level (CAL), had significantly (P <0.05) improved at the end of the third month after non‐surgical therapy associated with antibiotics. There was significant (P <0.05) reduction in the quantities of Td and Tf. After 1 month, there were significant (P <0.05) reductions in the frequencies of Pg and Tf.

Conclusion: Non‐surgical mechanical treatment associated with the use of amoxicillin and metronidazole led to an improvement in all clinical parameters studied, except for CAL, and significantly reduced the amount of subgingival Tf and Td.
Biological Treatment of Wastewater from Sugar Production Process by using Three-Phase Fluidized Bed Reactor
Authors: Hu Kun , Jin Changyi , Guo Yong , Huang Weixing
Published: November 2011

The biodegradation of wastewater from the sugar industry is investigated in a three-phase biological fluidized bed reactor. In the inoculation experiment, the immobilized biofilm was found to keep dominant over the suspended biomass, and a stable biofilm of 175 microns thick was formed after 12 days. The continuous experiments for biodegradation of wastewater showed that, under the operation with hydraulic retention time of 3 h, the average COD and NH3-N removals reached to 85% and 80%, respectively, and the resultant effluent COD and NH3-N achieved the Chinese Discharge Standard of Water Pollutants for Sugar Industry (GB 21909-2008). The experiment for impact load showed that as the influent COD load changed stepwise from 2.3 to 5.1 kgCOD/m3·d, the reactor achieved the treatment effect without being affected in the performance. Finally, tracer experiments were performed to measure the internal circulation and residence time distribution (RTD) of wastewater in the reactor. It was found that the internal circulation of wastewater evidently exists in the reactor. Meanwhile, the RTD characteristics were described with the tanks-in-series model, and under the operating conditions, the calculated model parameter n was ranged from 1.19 to 1.27, which indicated that the flow pattern in the reactor is close to that in a CSTR. The internal circulation causes the organic matters in the influent to be effectively diluted within the reactor, and also promotes the organic matters to be fully degraded, so that the reactor can present high adaptability to the variation of organic load and high removal efficiency to COD and NH3-N. As a result, the biological fluidized bed reactor is suggested to be a prospective unit for the treatment of wastewater from sugar production process.
Nonlinear Modeling for the Degradation of Aqueous Azo Dyes by Combined Advanced Oxidation Processes Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Mohajerani Masroor , Mehrvar Mehrab , Ein-Mozaffari Farhad
Published: November 2011

One-hidden-layer artificial neural networks (ANNs) using a back-propagation structure have been trained on different sets of experimental data to identify and evaluate the degradation of different azo dyes (Reactive Yellow 84, Reactive Blue 19, Direct Red 23, Direct Red 28, and Acid Blue 193) by photo-Fenton process and combined ozonation and ultrasonolysis processes. Different input variables such as pH, initial concentrations of dyes and ozone, reaction time, ultrasonic power density, and initial concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and ferrous in aqueous solution were employed to model the degradation rates of azo dyes based on the decolorization efficiency and the removal rate using chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC). A new model expression is developed to find the effect of individual parameters and their interactions on the efficiency of organic degradation by advanced oxidation processes.
Correlation between retention force of experimental plates and viscosity of experimental fluids
Authors: Mladenovic Dragan , Stankovic Dragutin , Stankovic Jasmina , Stankovic Sasa , Mladenovic Lidija , Boskovic Mirjana
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Saliva viscosity plays a significant role in the biophysical
segment of the total retention potential of total dentures. Objective. The
aim of the paper was to establish the dependence of dynamic retention force
of experimental plates on experimental fluid viscosity and especially time
dependence of these parameters, following at the same time relative changes
of the distance between the experimental plate and dentures support
established by the dislocation of the experimental plate in both directions.
Methods. For experimental verification we used an original device with the
aim to enable in vivo simulation on the phantom made of the upper total
denture prosthesis support and experimental plate. The experiment consisted
of two parts. In the first part we determined the value of the dynamic
retention force with plates without and with achieved ventilation effect. In
the second part we determined time dependence of the dynamic retention force
of experimental plates on the viscosity of experimental fluids that had been
priorly determined on identical samples (8 ml of experimental fluid samples)
using a rotational viscometer (Haake RV-12) with a sensor (MV, Germany).
Results Under the conditions of variable viscosity rates of seven
experimental fluids (from 0.02 to 1309.04 mPa?s), we registered the time
dependence of dynamic retention force of the experimental plate related to
fluid viscosity during the action of the continual dislocating force of the
separating directions. In addition, the maximal height of the dislocation of
the experimental plate was registered. The dynamic retention force,
manifested by the separating direction of the experimental plate dislocation,
was increased concurrently with increased viscosity. Conclusion. The increase
of dynamic retention force depends directly on medium viscosity. Close border
values of fluid viscosity above the investigated ones, the impossibility of
experimental layer thinning and the decrease of distance height probably
influence the onset of separating dislocation.
Elements of metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes before and after introduction to insulin analogues
Authors: Balos Ljiljana , Sajic Silvija , Zdravkovic Vera
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1DM) in children is characterized by
unstable course. A significant number of studies shows that introduction to
insulin analogues treatment aims towards better control of the disease.
Objective. The assessment of metabolic control in children with T1DM that
were introduced to insulin analogue treatment after many years of treatment
with classic (human) insulin. Methods. The study included 59 patients 2-19
years old (12.9?3.8) with T1DM, transferred from treatment with human insulin
to insulin analogues treatment. Data were obtained directly from patients and
their parents, as well as from medical records. Results. The introduction to
insulin analogues treatment, leads to a decrease in the value of glycolized
haemoglobin (HbA1c) after 6 months (9.27?1.68% vs 8.63?1:26%, p=0.06).
Average daily dose of insulin expressed per IU/kg of classic and insulin
analogue (1.04?0.38 vs 1.03?0.30; p>0.05), remained almost the same. In 39
examinees (66.1%), 6 months before the introduction to insulin analogue
treatment, severe hypoglicemia was registered and 6 months after the
introduction to insulin analogue treatment it appeared in only two examinees
(3.4%) (p<0.001). Ketoacidosis, 6 months before introduction to insulin
analogues treatment, appeared in 16 examinees (27.1%), while 6 months after
it was not registered (p<0.001). Conclusion. The use of insulin analogue
treatment in childhood provides adequate metabolic control and substantially
reduces the risk of acute complications (severe hypoglicemia, ketoacidosis).
Effect of chromium enriched fermentation product of barley and brewer’s yeast and its combination with rosiglitazone on experimentally induced hyperglycaemia in mice
Authors: Cekic Vlada , Vasovic Velibor , Jakovljevic Vida , Lalosevic Dusan , Capo Ivan , Mikov Momir , Sabo Ana
Published: November 2011

Introduction. In the recent years, herbal preparations have been more used to
treat diabetes. Dietetic supplement based on barley and beer yeast enriched
with chromium (BBCr) is registered in Serbia as a supplement in the treatment
of type 2 diabetes. Objective. To investigate the effect of the preparation
based on barley and brewer?s yeast with chromium (BBCr), rosiglitazone (R)
and their combination (BBCr+R) on fasting glycaemia and glycaemia in mice
after glucose, adrenalin and alloxan application. Methods. The animals were
divided into three groups: glucose 500 mg/kg (I); adrenalin 0.2 mg/kg (II);
and alloxan 100 mg/kg (III) and into subgroups according to the substance
they received (BBCr: 750 mg/kg, R: 0.75 mg/kg and BBCr+R). Each animal was
its own control in respect of glycaemia before and after the treatment with
test substances, except for group III which contained a placebo subgroup.
Results. BBCr caused a significant decrease of fasting glycaemia and
significant reduction of glycaemia after glucose load compared to the values
before treatment (7.4?0.6 mmol/l vs 9.2?0.6 mmol/l; p=0.01). R and BBCr+R
significantly decreased glycaemia after adrenalin load (R: 8.6?1.8 mmol/l vs
15.4?3.2 mmol/l; p=0.004; BBCr+R: 9.6?2.4 mmol/l vs 15.0?4.4 mmol/l; p=0.04).
After alloxan application the glycaemia was significantly lower in the
subgroups treated with BBCr, R and BBCr+R compared to placebo subgroup
(10.1?8.0 mmol/l vs 6.8?2.7 mmol/l vs 13.5?9.7 mmol/l vs 24.5?4.7 mmol/l;
p=0.001). Conclusion. Pretreatment with BBCr caused a significant reduction
of fasting glycaemia and glycaemia after glucose load. Rosiglitazone and
BBCr+R caused a significant reduction of glycaemia after adrenalin load.
Pretreatment with BBCr, R and BBCr+R prevented the onset of experimental
diabetes caused by alloxan, which was confirmed by histological analysis of
pancreas tissue.
Well differentiated endocrine carcinomas of the pancreas
Authors: Colovic Radoje , Grubor Nikica , Micev Marjan , Dugalic Vladimir , Stojakov Dejan , Latincic Stojan , Colovic Natasa , Jovanovic Miodrag , Karapandzic Vesna
Published: November 2011

Introduction. For the difference from poorly differentiated, well
differentiated endocrine carcinomas of the pancreas are the tumours in whom
with aggressive surgery and chemotherapy fair results can be achieved.
Objective. The aim of the study was to point out the importance of such
treatment. Methods. Over a 6-year period eight patients (seven female and one
male) of average age 51 years (ranging from 23 to 71 years) were operated on
for well differentiated endocrine carcinoma: six of the head and two of the
tail of the pancreas. There were two functional and six nonfunctional
tumours. Pain in the upper part of the abdomen in seven, mild loss in weight
in two, strong heartburn in two, obstructive jaundice in three, diarrhoea in
one, sudden massive bleeding from gastric varicosities due to prehepatic
portal hypertension caused by pancreatic head tumour in one, and bruise in
one patient were registered preoperatively. US and CT in all, angiography in
one, octreoscan in two and PET scan in one patient were performed. Whipple?s
procedure was performed in six and distal pancreatectomy in two patients, as
well as systemic lymphadenectomy in all and excision of liver secondary
tumours in two patients. In the patient with massive gastric bleeding a total
gastrectomy was performed first, followed by Whipple?s procedure a month
later. Results. R0 resection was achieved in all patients. Lymph nodes
metastases were found in six patients. Six patients were given chemotherapy.
One patient died 3 years after surgery, seven are still alive, on average 2.5
years. A local recurrence after distal pancreatectomy that occurred 5 years
after surgery was successfully reresected and the patient is on
peptide-receptor radiotherapy. In other six patients there were no local
recurence or distant metastases. Conclusion. With aggressive surgery and
chemotherapy fair results can be achieved in well differentiated endocrine
carcinomas of the pancreas.
Identical twins with “mirror image” anisometropia and esotropia
Authors: Stankovic-Babic Gordana , Vujanovic Milena , Cekic Sonja
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Identical twins account for 0.2% of the world population and 8%
of all twins. A ?mirror image? variation can be found in 25% of identical
twins. Studies of twins assume a special place in human genetics due to the
possibility of comparing genetic and other factors. We present two pairs of
identical male twins with mirror-image astigmatism and esotropia. Case
Outline. The first was a pair of twelve-year old identical twins with ?mirror
image? myopic astigmatism. The Twin 1 had myopic astigmatism in the right
eye, while the Twin 2 was affected by the left eye myopic astigmatism. The
second was a pair of six-year old identical twins with esotropia and
hypermetropic astigmatism. The Twin 1 had esotropia in the left eye, while
the right eye was affected in the Twin 2. Esotropia was surgically corrected.
Conclusion. In this study we pointed to the role of genetic factors in the
development of refractive error, as well as the type of strabismus.
Refraction anomalies (myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism) are complex
heterogeneous disorders and ideal for genetic investigation. The knowledge of
genetic mechanisms involved in refractive error susceptibility may allow
treatment to prevent progression or to further examine gene-environment
interactions. We hope that this paper will initiate further investigation of
refraction anomalies in twins and future multicentre studies, which, to our
knowledge, have not been conducted in our country so far.
Digeorge syndrome: A case report
Authors: Popovic-Deusic Smiljka , Lecic-Tosevski Dusica , Pejovic-Milovancevic Milica , Draganic-Gajic Saveta , Aleksic-Hil Olivera , Radosavljev-Kircanski Jelena
Published: November 2011

Introduction. DiGeorge syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by deletion of
chromosome 22. The main features are congenital heart disease, absence or
hypoplasia of thymus (with consecutive immunodeficiency and infections),
hypoparathyroidism with consecutive hypocalcaemia, gastrointestinal problems,
Delayed psychomotor development, abnormalities of head and face, tendency to
develop seizures and psychiatric disorders. Syndrome can be detected
prenatally, or during early development, which is of great importance for
preventive and therapeutic measures. Death rate is high during the first year
of life, mostly because of congenital heart disease. With prompt diagnosis
and treatment most of the children can survive to adulthood, but they are
children with special needs requiring continual care and supervision (because
of metal retardation, seizures, neurological and psychiatric disorders). Case
Outline. A seven-year-old boy underwent surgical correction of congenital
heart disease soon after the birth. Since the age of four years he developed
seizures, partially controlled by antiepileptic therapy. Entering the seventh
year of age he displayed severe auto and heteroaggressive behaviour. His
condition has improved by the introduction of intensive psychiatric and
defectological treatment, and daily counselling with his mother the child
improved in the sense of calming down, better social communication and
acquiring some self-help specific skills. Conclusion. Symptoms of DiGeorge
syndrome can be detected soon after the birth, especially that concerning
congenital hearth disease. A prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention can
save the child?s life. Because of many other symptoms, many diagnostic
procedures focused on this syndrome are to be performed, followed by long
lasting stimulative treatment and treatment of seizures and psychiatric
disorders.
Complications of mechanical ventilation
Authors: Draskovic Biljana , Rakic Goran
Published: November 2011

Mechanical ventilation of the lungs, as an important therapeutic measure,
cannot be avoided in critically ill patients. However, when machines take
over some of vital functions there is always a risk of complications and
accidents. Complications associated with mechanical ventilation can be
divided into: 1) airway-associated complications; 2) complications in the
response of patients to mechanical ventilation; and 3) complications related
to the patient?s response to the device for mechanical ventilation.
Complications of artificial airway may be related to intubation and
extubation or the endotracheal tube. Complications of mechanical ventilation,
which arise because of the patient?s response to mechanical ventilation, may
primarily cause significant side effects to the lungs. During the last two
decades it was concluded that mechanical ventilation can worsen or cause
acute lung injury. Mechanical ventilation may increase the alveolar/capillary
permeability by overdistension of the lungs (volutrauma), it can exacerbate
lung damage due to the recruitment/derecruitment of collapsed alveoli
(atelectrauma) and may cause subtle damages due to the activation of
inflammatory processes (biotrauma). Complications caused by mechanical
ventilation, beside those involving the lungs, can also have significant
effects on other organs and organic systems, and can be a significant factor
contributing to the increase of morbidity and mortality in critically ill of
mechanically ventilated patients. Complications are fortunately rare and do
not occur in every patient, but due to their seriousness and severity they
require extensive knowledge, experience and responsibility by health-care
workers.
Influence of peripartum dietary energy supplementation on some blood biochemical parametars in dairy cows
Authors: Bojkovic-Kovacevic Slavica , Jeremic Ivan , Kirovski Danijela , Polovina Mladen , Vujanac Ivan , Prodanovic Radisa , Milosevic Svetozar
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of an energy supplement
on the basis of propylene glycol on the values of metabolic profile
parameters in periparturient cows. Fifteen days before calving, 40 cows were
selected and divided into two groups: control (n=20) and experimental (n=20).
From day 15 before to day 30 after calving, the experimental group of cows
received an energy supplement based on propyleneglycol added in food
("OSIMOL?, Veyx-Pharma GmbH, Germany). Blood samples were taken 15 days
before and 10 days after calving. Concentrations of glucose and
betahydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) were determined immediately after blood was
taken. Concentrations of total protein, albumin, urea and total bilirubin
were determined in the blood serum. There was no significant difference in
the average values of the measured parameters between the control and the
experimental group of cows. After parturition glycemia in cows of the control
group was lower than physiologically acceptable (x=1.93?0.43 mmol/L), and
glucose in cows of the experimental group was at the upper physiological
limit (x=3.13?0.33 mmol/L) and signicantly higher (p<0.001) than in the
control group. The concentration of BHBA in cows that received the energy
supplement (?OSIMOL?) was 0.40?0.12 mmol/L, while in the control group of
cows it was significantly higher (p<0.001) and stood at 0.88 ?0.39 mmol/L.
Furthermore, the concentration of total bilirubin in the cows of the
experimental group was within the physiological range (x = 4.09? 1.42
?mol/L), while in the cows of the control group it was significantly higher
(p<0.05) and stood at 10.19?5.16 ?mol/l.
Immune complexes in blood serum of calves with clinical symptoms of bronchopneumonia
Authors: Fratric Natalija , Gvozdic Dragan , Savic Olivera , Jaglicic Ivana , Ilic Vesna
Published: November 2011

Pneumonia in preruminant calves is a multifactorial disease. Infectious
agents, the environment, management and the immune status of the calves are
all important factors in determining the outcome of an infection. Until
today, the level and composition of circulating immune complexes in
preruminant calves with pneumonia have not been studied in detail. We
performed this work with the aim to determine whether pneumonia in
three-month-old calves is followed by changes in the immune complex level and
changes in the ?-globulin level as their possible constituents. Immune
complexes from the calves? sera were isolated by polyethylene glycol (PEG)
precipitation methods. Optical density at 350 nm (OD350) of redissolved
precipitates was measured to determine the circulating immune complexes
level. The OD350 level of PEG precipitates of calves with pneumonia at the
time of diagnosis was 0.577?0.206 and it was statistically significantly
higher (p<0.001) than OD350 the level of PEG precipitates of healthy calves
(0.286?0.080). Electrophoretic analysis of sera and PEG precipitates showed
that both slow and fast ?-globulins are found among serum and
immune-complexes' ?-globulins, but the concentration of fast ?-globulins was
significantly lower in sera of diseased calves. The level of PEG precipitable
immune complexes was not correlated with the concentration of serum and PEG
precipitable g-globulins. The results of this study have shown that by
relatively simple PEG precipitation assay it is possible to detect an
increased level of circulating immune complexes in calves with pneumonia.
This can be used as an additional diagnostic parameter for the detection and
follow up of the disease.
Implementation of different histochemical methods in diagnostics of brain Aspergillosis in turkey chicks
Authors: Kureljusic Branislav , Savic Bozidar , Prodanovic Radisa , Djekic Jovo , Adamov Vladica , Jakic-Dimic Dobrila , Miljkovic Biljana , Radanovic Oliver , Ivetic Vojin
Published: November 2011

Aspergillosis is a frequent fungal disease in different species of birds and
mammals caused by fungi of the genus Aspergillus. It is characterized by
inflammatory changes primarily in the respiratory system, even though it
sometimes takes on a generalized form when several organ systems are
affected. Mucotic-granulomatous meningoencephalitis with a predominant
localization in the cerebellum has been described in turkeys, ducks and
geese. Within this paper, examinations have been performed on a flock of
broiler turkeys aged 12 days who had sustained evident neurological
disorders in the form of ataxy, torticollis, paresis, and paralysis of the
hind extremities and wings. In three of the ten autopsied chicks the
macroscopic findings indicated granulomatous encephalitis of the cerebellum.
A white-coloured granuloma, around 3mm in diameter, was situated
cranioventrally and was clearly visible on the sagital section of the
cerebellum. Mucological examinations of the cerebellum lesion resulted in
the isolation of the fungi Aspergillus fumigatus. Haematoxylin-eosin (HE),
Grocott and PAS methods were used for the evaluation of histopathological
changes and proving Aspergillus fumigatusa hyphae. The microscopic
examination of brain tissue sections stained with the HE method revealed the
existence of a granuloma with a centrally placed necrotic area. The necrotic
area was infiltrated with heterophilic granulocytes and surrounded by
macrophage, giant cells and lymphocytes. A connective tissue capsule was
located on the periphery of the granuloma. The fungi hyphae, as integral
parts of the granuloma, were difficult to observe, and in some samples
stained using the HE method they could not be seen at all. On the other
hand, sections stanied using the Grocott and PAS methods showed prominent
septed and branched hyphae in different parts of the granuloma. With the
objective of making an etiological diagnosis of mucotic diseases, it is
necessary to apply several histochemical methods, in addition to isolation.
Predicting absorption and pharmacokinetic profile of carbamazepine from controlled-release tablet formulation in humans using rabbit model
Authors: Homsek Irena , Popadic Dragica , Simic Slobodanka , Ristic Slavica , Vucicevic Katarina , Miljkovic Branislava
Published: November 2011

Controlled-release (CR) pharmaceutical formulations offer several advantages
over the conventional, immediate release dosage forms of the same drug,
including reduced dosing frequency, decreased incidence and/or intensity of
adverse effects, greater selectivity of pharmacological activity, reduced
drug plasma fluctuation, and better compliance. After a drug product has been
registered, and is already on market, minor changes in formulation might be
needed. At the same time, the product has to remain effective and safe for
patients that could be confirmed via plasma drug concentrations and
pharmacokinetic characteristics. It is challenging to predict human
absorption and pharmacokinetic characteristics of a drug based on the in
vitro dissolution test and the animal pharmacokinetic data. Therefore, the
objective of this study was to establish correlation of the pharmacokinetic
parameters of carbamazepine (CBZ) CR tablet formulation between the rabbit
and the human model, and to establish in vitro in vivo correlation (IVIVC)
based on the predicted fractions of absorbed CBZ. Although differences in
mean plasma concentration profiles were notified, the data concerning the
predicted fraction of drug absorbed were almost superimposable. Accordingly,
it can be concluded that rabbits may be representative as an in vivo model
for predicting the pharmacokinetics of the CR formulation of CBZ in humans.
Standard working procedures in production of traditionally fermented Sremska sausage
Authors: Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Turubatovic Lazar , Raseta Mladen , Stefanovic Srdjan , Jankovic Sasa , Skrinjar Marija
Published: November 2011

Investigations conducted within project "Techonological and protective
characteristics of autochthonous strains of lactic acid bacteria isolated
from traditional fermented sausages and possibilities for their
implementation in the meat industry" (Project Number: 20127), financed on
behalf of the Ministry for Science and Technology of the Republic of Serbia,
have provided an answer on the characteristics of the quality of the used raw
materials for the production of Sremska sausage - one of the most well-known
Serbian traditionally fermented sausages (choice of meat, fatty tissue,
additives and spices), and data have been registered in connection with the
procedures of their processing, microclimatic conditions have been
established (temperature, relative humidity, and air circulation) during the
entire process of production and fermentation, as well as the presence and
types of microorganisms, primarily lactic acid bacteria (BMK), the carrier of
lactic fermentation. The most important characteristics of the filling have
been established, the smoking regimen, the regimens of fermentation,
maturing, drying, as well as the parameters for quality and safety of the
finished product. At the same time, the standard working procedure has been
determined for the preparation of the meat, fatty tissue, the forming and
inserting of the filling into the wrappers, as well as the characteristics of
the finished products. The given standard working procedure should serve as a
guideline for the meat industry in the production process of this traditional
fermented sausage.
Physiology of free radicals
Authors: Stevanovic Jelka , Borozan Suncica , Jovic Slavoljub , Ignjatovic Igor
Published: November 2011

Free radicals imply that every atom, molecule, ion, group of atoms, or
molecules with one or several non-paired electrons in outer orbital. Among
these are: nitrogenoxide (NO?), superoxide-anion-radical (O2?-), hydroxyl
radical (OH?), peroxyl radical (ROO?), alcoxyl radical (RO?) and hydroperoxyl
radical (HO2?). However, reactive oxygen species also include components
without non-paired electrons in outer orbital (so-called reactive non-radical
agents), such as: singlet oxygen (1O2), peroxynitrite (ONOO-),
hydrogen-peroxide (H2O2), hypochloric acid (eg. HOCl) and ozone (O3). High
concentrations of free radicals lead to the development of oxidative stress
which is a precondition for numerous pathological effects. However, low and
moderate concentrations of these matter, which occur quite normally during
cell metabolic activity, play multiple significant roles in many reactions.
Some of these are: regulation of signal pathways within the cell and between
cells, the role of chemoattractors and leukocyte activators, the role in
phagocytosis, participation in maintaining, changes in the position and shape
of the cell, assisting the cell during adaption and recovery from damage
(e.g.caused by physical effort), the role in normal cell growth, programmed
cell death (apoptosis) and cell ageing, in the synthesis of essential
biological compounds and energy production, as well as the contribution to
the regulation of the vascular tone, actually, tissue vascularization.
Pierre Hadot as a Reader of Wittgenstein
Authors: Laugier Sandra
Published: November 2011

Pierre Hadot (1922–2010), professor of ancient philosophy at the Collège de France, published, in the late 1950s and early 1960s, some of the earliest work on Wittgenstein to appear in French. Hadot conceived of philosophy as an activity rather than a body of doctrines and found in Wittgenstein a fruitful point of departure for ethical reflection. Hadot's understanding of philosophy as a spiritual exercise — articulated through his reading of ancient philosophy but also the American transcendentalists Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson — will find an echo in Wittgenstinian thinkers such as Stanley Cavell and Cora Diamond. Ultimately philosophy for Hadot is a call to personal and political transformation.
At the Margins of Sense: The Function of Paradox in Deleuze and Wittgenstein
Authors: Due Reidar A.
Published: November 2011

Gilles Deleuze famously expressed distaste for the philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein and his followers. The two thinkers are here seen as irreconcilable. The critique of false problems and the refutation of scepticism found in Wittgenstein have no resonance in Deleuze, who was a systematic metaphysical philosopher in the tradition of pre-Kantian rationalism. Pragmatic-sceptical self-limitation of thought's capabilities on the grounds of existing practice flies in the face of aesthetic experience. Moreover Deleuze explicitly upholds modern literature as a locus of philosophical innovation. The comparison between Deleuze and Wittgenstein is pursued in an examination of the questions of ‘rule following’, literary practice and semiotics. Deleuze was hostile to ‘pragmatism’, whereas Wittgenstein and his followers could often be described as pragmatists.
Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations, Linguistic Meaning and Music
Authors: Hagberg Garry L.
Published: November 2011

This article undertakes a comparison between Wittgenstein's philosophy of the early and late periods with the musical theories of Wittgenstein's contemporary, Heinrich Schenker, an influential Viennese theorist of tonality, as well as those of their contemporary Arnold Schoenberg. Schenker's reductive analytical procedure was designed to unveil fundamental and uniform ways in which all works of music function (and should function), unfolding a deep structure constituting their essence. Schoenberg deplored this line of thought, and for reasons strikingly parallel to those that led Wittgenstein back to what he called the ‘rough ground’ in his Philosophical Investigations. Ultimately, for Wittgenstein, the abstracted picture of the musical work as a platonic entity is nourished by grammatical conflations as well as by the Platonic and Cartesian legacies.
Risk of Prostate Cancer after Trans Urethral Resection of BPH: A Cohort and Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Karlsson Camilla T. , Wiklund Fredrik , Grönberg Henrik , Bergh Anders , Melin Beatrice
Published: November 2011

Epidemiological and experimental evidence suggests that inflammation plays a role in both prostate cancer (PCa) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). This study evaluates the risk of PC after transurethral resection (TURP) for BPH and estimates the PCa risk related to presence of inflammation in the resected material. The Pathology Department at the University Hospital of Umeå (Umeå, Sweden) identified BPH cases (n = 7,901) that underwent TURP between 1982 and 1997. Using these pathological specimens, we compared the incidence of PCa in the cohort to the population and calculated the standardized incidence and mortality ratios (SIR and SMR). Inflammation, the androgen receptor (AR), and p53 were evaluated in a nested case-control study of 201 cases and controls. Inflammation was graded severe or mild-moderate. In the follow-up period after TURP, cases developed prostate cancer and the controls did not. After TURP, SIR for prostate cancer increased [1.26, CI 95% (1.17–1.35)], whereas SMR decreased [0.59, CI 95% (0.47–0.73)]. Presence of inflammation at the time of TURP did not differ between cases and controls nor were there differences in p53 or AR staining. The data suggest a small increased risk of PCa after TURP and decreased PCa mortality. Inflammation at the time of TURP is not associated with PCa risk in this material. The increased PCa risk may be attributed to increased surveillance and PSA screening.
Bioengineering Embryonic Stem Cell Microenvironments for the Study of Breast Cancer
Authors: Raof Nurazhani Abdul , Mooney Bridget M. , Xie Yubing
Published: November 2011

Breast cancer is the most prevalent disease amongst women worldwide and metastasis is the main cause of death due to breast cancer. Metastatic breast cancer cells and embryonic stem (ES) cells display similar characteristics. However, unlike metastatic breast cancer cells, ES cells are nonmalignant. Furthermore, embryonic microenvironments have the potential to convert metastatic breast cancer cells into a less invasive phenotype. The creation of in vitro embryonic microenvironments will enable better understanding of ES cell-breast cancer cell interactions, help elucidate tumorigenesis, and lead to the restriction of breast cancer metastasis. In this article, we will present the characteristics of breast cancer cells and ES cells as well as their microenvironments, importance of embryonic microenvironments in inhibiting tumorigenesis, convergence of tumorigenic and embryonic signaling pathways, and state of the art in bioengineering embryonic microenvironments for breast cancer research. Additionally, the potential application of bioengineered embryonic microenvironments for the prevention and treatment of invasive breast cancer will be discussed.
Fatty Acid Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) Seed Oil Extracted by Optimized Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Wang Yuefei , Sun Da , Chen Hao , Qian Lisheng , Xu Ping
Published: November 2011

Seeds are another product in addition to leaves (raw materials for teas) of tea (Camellia sinensis L.) plant. The great increase of tea consumption in recent years raises the challenge of finding commercial applications for tea seeds. In the present study, supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) extraction edible oil from tea seed was carried out, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize processing parameters including time (20–90 min), temperature (35–45 °C) and pressure (50–90 MPa). The fatty acid composition and antioxidant activity of the extracted oil was also investigated. The highest yield of oil (29.2 ± 0.6%) was obtained under optimal SC-CO2 extraction conditions (45 °C, 89.7 min and 32 MPa, respectively), which was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that (25.3 ± 1.0%) given by Soxhlet extraction. Meanwhile, tea seed oil extracted by SC-CO2 contained approximately 80% unsaturated fatty acids and showed a much stronger scavenging ability on the DPPH radical than that extracted by Soxhlet. SC-CO2 is a promising alternative for efficient extraction of edible oil from tea seed. Moreover, tea seed oil extracted by SC-CO2 is highly edible and has good antioxidant activity, and therefore may play a potential role as a health-promoting food resource in human diets.
Bio-Sensing of Cadmium(II) Ions Using Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Sochor Jiri , Zitka Ondrej , Hynek David , Jilkova Eva , Krejcova Ludmila , Trnkova Libuse , Adam Vojtech , Hubalek Jaromir , Kynicky Jindrich , Vrba Radimir , Kizek Rene
Published: November 2011

Cadmium, as a hazardous pollutant commonly present in the living environment, represents an important risk to human health due to its undesirable effects (oxidative stress, changes in activities of many enzymes, interactions with biomolecules including DNA and RNA) and consequent potential risk, making its detection very important. New and unique technological and biotechnological approaches for solving this problems are intensely sought. In this study, we used the commonly occurring potential pathogenic microorganism Staphylococcus aureus for the determination of markers which could be used for sensing of cadmium(II) ions. We were focused on monitoring the effects of different cadmium(II) ion concentrations (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 25 and 50 µg mL−1) on the growth and energetic metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus. Highly significant changes have been detected in the metabolism of thiol compounds—specifically the protein metallothionein (0.79–26.82 mmol/mg of protein), the enzyme glutathione S-transferase (190–5,827 µmol/min/mg of protein), and sulfhydryl groups (9.6–274.3 µmol cysteine/mg of protein). The ratio of reduced and oxidized glutathione indicated marked oxidative stress. In addition, dramatic changes in urease activity, which is connected with resistance of bacteria, were determined. Further, the effects of cadmium(II) ions on the metabolic pathways of arginine, β-glucosidase, phosphatase, N-acetyl β-D-glucosamine, sucrose, trehalose, mannitol, maltose, lactose, fructose and total proteins were demonstrated. A metabolomic profile of Staphylococcus aureus under cadmium(II) ion treatment conditions was completed seeking data about the possibility of cadmium(II) ion accumulation in cells. The results demonstrate potential in the application of microorganisms as modern biosensor systems based on biological components.
A New Venture
Authors: Bull Martin
Published: November 2011

It is with great honour that I have accepted the invitation to become the Editor-in Chief of this new online journal, Social Sciences. Even if there ever existed a time when it could be argued that “interdisciplinary” research was unnecessary or a luxury, there can be little doubt that today it is essential to helping understand and solve the world’s problems. And the first building block of trans-disciplinary research must be raising knowledge and awareness of what other disciplines are doing. It could be said that this is what lies at the heart of this new venture, for this journal aims to publish work from an extensive range of fields, thus bringing scholars from a variety of disciplines “together”, promoting greater cross-disciplinary awareness of major themes and debates, and hopefully prompting inter-disciplinary projects in the future. This, moreover, is very much needed because the challenges facing the social sciences today are probably greater than at any time in their history. [...]
Factors Associated with the Satisfaction of Participation in Daily Activities for Adults with Class III Obesity
Authors: Forhan Mary A. , Law Mary C. , Taylor Valerie H. , Vrkljan Brenda H.
Published: November 2011

There are no guidelines in the obesity or occupational therapy literature to address how participation in occupations of everyday living should be maintained or improved for individuals with obesity. Achieving this goal requires an understanding of the factors associated with participation in daily living activities for this group. To address this, the authors administered a cross-sectional survey that included the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite, the Medical Outcomes Survey Social Support Survey, and the satisfaction with participation scale to 140 adults with a mean body mass index of 48.5 kg/m. Multivariate regression analysis resulted in a model containing social support and disability status, which predicted 35% of the variance in satisfaction with participation. Disability status was the strongest predictor of satisfaction with participation and, therefore, interventions that aim to reduce the disability experienced by individuals with obesity have the potential to affect participation in everyday activities.
Microbiota Downregulates Dendritic Cell Expression of miR-10a, Which Targets IL-12/IL-23p40
Authors: Xue Xiaochang , Feng Ting , Yao Suxia , Wolf Kyle J. , Liu Chang-Gong , Liu Xiuping , Elson Charles O. , Cong Yingzi
Published: November 2011

Commensal flora plays important roles in the regulation of the gene expression involved in many intestinal functions and the maintenance of immune homeostasis, as well as in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases. The microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small, noncoding RNAs, act as key regulators in many biological processes. The miRNAs are highly conserved among species and appear to play important roles in both innate and adaptive immunity, as they can control the differentiation of various immune cells, as well as their functions. However, it is still largely unknown how microbiota regulates miRNA expression, thereby contributing to intestinal homeostasis and pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. In our current study, we found that microbiota negatively regulated intestinal miR-10a expression, because the intestines, as well as intestinal epithelial cells and dendritic cells of specific pathogen-free mice, expressed much lower levels of miR-10a compared with those in germ-free mice. Commensal bacteria downregulated dendritic cell miR-10a expression via TLR–TLR ligand interactions through a MyD88-dependent pathway. We identified IL-12/IL-23p40, a key molecule for innate immune responses to commensal bacteria, as a target of miR-10a. The ectopic expression of the miR-10a precursor inhibited, whereas the miR-10a inhibitor promoted, the expression of IL-12/IL-23p40 in dendritic cells. Mice with colitis expressing higher levels of IL-12/IL-23p40 exhibited lower levels of intestinal miR-10a compared with control mice. Collectively, our data demonstrated that microbiota negatively regulates host miR-10a expression, which may contribute to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis by targeting IL-12/IL-23p40 expression.
Cutting Edge: A Role for Inside-Out Signaling in TCR Regulation of CD28 Ligand Binding
Authors: Sanchez-Lockhart Mariano , Kim Minsoo , Miller Jim
Published: November 2011

Efficient T cell activation depends on the engagement of both TCR and CD28, although the molecular mechanisms that control this signal integration are not fully understood. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer, we show that T cell activation can drive a reorientation of the cytosolic tails of the CD28 dimer. However, this is not mediated through CD28 ligand binding. Rather, TCR signaling itself mediates this conformation change in CD28. We also show that TCR signaling can induce CD28–ligand interactions. Although the CD28 dimer appears to bind ligand monovalently in solution, we show that both ligand binding sites are required to efficiently recruit CD28 to the immunological synapse. These results suggest, that analogous to the cross-talk from TCR that regulates integrin activation, TCR-initiated inside-out signaling may induce a conformational change to the extracellular domains of CD28, enabling ligand binding and initiating CD28 signaling.