bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mothers’ and Teachers’ Mental-State Discourse With Preschoolers During Storybook Reading
Authors: Ziv Margalit , Smadja Marie-Lyne , Aram Dorit
Published: February 2014

Mothers and teachers play a pivotal role in promoting preschool children’s theory of mind. This study explored and compared mothers’ and teachers’ mental-state discourse during storybook reading with children, focusing on their use of mental terms and references to three mental-state aspects: false belief, mental causality, and different points of view. Participants were 60 mothers and their children, and 60 teachers and 300 preschoolers. Mothers read the book to one child and teachers read the same book to groups of 5 children. The book involved a central false-belief theme. Main findings revealed that mothers and teachers elaborated on book-related mental states. However, teachers’ discourse included more mental terms and more references to mental causality and different people’s perspectives. The findings suggest that reading books with rich mental-state contents encourages rich discourse on mental-state elements. Parents and teachers should be guided in how to use their unique knowledge and relationships with children to enrich their mediation of books’ mental-state aspects and discuss them with children.
Performance-Evaluation Threat Does Not Adversely Affect Verbal Working Memory in High Test-Anxious Persons
Authors: Putwain David W. , Shah Jawad , Lewis Rebecca
Published: February 2014

In two studies, we set out to examine whether the verbal working memory of high and low test-anxious students differed under performance-evaluative threat. In Study 1, 84 schoolchildren completed a backward digit span task under threat or no-threat conditions. In Study 2, 71 schoolchildren completed a backward digit span task in both threat and no-threat conditions. Results showed that the verbal working memory capacity of highly test-anxious students in Study 1 did not change under low or high threat conditions. In Study 2, the verbal working memory capacity of highly test-anxious students decreased under performance-evaluative threat when this condition was taken first but increased when this condition was taken second. To account for the effects of performance-evaluative threat, it is necessary to consider how increased effortful control may compensate for anxiety-induced reduced efficiency when tasks are not timed.
Identifying Learning Trajectories While Playing a Learning-to-Learn Computer Game in Different Children and Instruction Types
Authors: de Koning Baukje , Timmerman Marieke , van Geert Paul , van der Meulen Bieuwe
Published: February 2014

This research focuses on identifying learning trajectories expressed among children playing a learning-to-learn computer game and examining the relationships between the learning trajectories and individual characteristics such as developmental age, prior knowledge, and instruction type (adult- and/or computer-assisted, or no instruction). Each child in the sample (N= 184; ages 2.6–4.2 years) repeatedly played the game, resulting in 13 measurements. At each measurement, we registered 7 aspects of mouse behavior such as error frequency, mouse click frequency, and reaction times. Based on those data, we identified 6 types of learning trajectories with multilevel latent class growth analysis. The types appeared significantly related to developmental age, prior knowledge, and type of instruction. Furthermore, prior knowledge appeared the best predictor; specifically among children with moderate prior knowledge having received instruction was associated with better performances than no instruction. The results support the conclusion that children at risk have a high probability of showing benefits in their learning-to-learn skills while playing this educational computer game. However, more adapted games, with more variation and adult-assisted instruction, would also benefit children with uninhibited behavior.
Psychophysiological Responses of Firefighters to Emergencies: A Review
Authors: Perroni Fabrizio , Guidetti Laura , Cignitti Lamberto , Baldari Carlo
Published: February 2014

Firefighters perform strenuous muscular works in hazardous environments and chaotic conditions, under time
pressure and psychological stress. Various studies have shown high values of oxygen uptake, heart rate, blood lactate
concentrations and salivary cortisol and A-Amylase in laboratory test, in real-life and simulated interventions of
firefighters. These high values have been attributed to the combined effect of the metabolically active muscle,
thermoregulatory strain and fatigue resulting from the protective gear and a self-contained breathing apparatus in addition
to further supplementary overweight (i.e., lifting weights, rescuing victims). In order to protect health and safety of
firefighters and victims during emergencies, high levels of cardiovascular endurance and strength in firefighters are
strongly recommended. In fact, high levels of physical fitness showed to increase firefighters’ work ability, safety and
decreased risk of injury.
Disparities among Greek Army Units due to Physical Training Instructor’s Competency Influencing the Organizational Efficiency of the Army Physical Training
Authors: Kontodimaki Vasiliki , Mountakis Costas
Published: February 2014

There has been no systematic measurement of the parameters affecting the organization’s efficiency of the
physical training of the Hellenic Army’s Physical Training (APT). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the
competency of the five different types of “Physical Training (PT) Instructor” within the Hellenic Army Units Training
Cycles (HAUTCs), which influences the APT program’s organizational efficiency in the Hellenic Armed (HA) forces.
Two thousands eight hundred sixty four (2864) survey questionnaires (5 point Likert type scale) were selected.
Participants came from a wide spectrum of Greek Permanent Army Personnel in HA. Five (5) different types of the PT
Instructors were tested, measured along three (3) dimensions (a) contribution to implementation, (b) frequency of
implementation and (c) effectiveness/adequacy of implementation, which evaluate their competency in performance of
APT programs (15 dependent variables). ΑΝΟVA and Bonferroni post comparisons were calculated for the total of the
dependent variables among the three HAUTCs (A΄, Β΄ and C΄) (3 independent variables). The probability of statistical
significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. The results showed that the “Officer” (OFC) contributes, applies and suffices the APT
programs mainly in HAUTCs A΄ and B΄, whereas “Permanent Commissioned Officer” (PCOF) applies APT programs
more often in HAUTC C΄. In HAUTCs B΄ and C΄ the “Physical Education Graduate” (PEG) seems more capable,
efficient, and suitable when ordered to perform the PT programs. The results evaluated the duty of the PT Instructors’
competency according to HAUTCs’ requirements and introduce the necessity of its improvement in some cases.
Effectiveness of Financial Incentives in a Worksite Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Faghri Pouran D. , Li Rui
Published: February 2014

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of financial incentive in a diabetes prevention weight loss program at worksites.

Design:

Group-level randomized intervention study.

Setting:

Four long term care facilities, randomly assigned to “incentive-IG” or “non incentive- NIG” groups.

Participants:

Ninety-nine employees, all overweight or obese (BMI= mean 34.8+7.4 kg/m2) and at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Intervention:

A 16 weeks weight loss program (diabetes prevention program) with a 3 month follow up. IG could either choose a "standard incentive" to receive cash award when achieving the projected weight loss or to participate in a "standard plus deposit incentive" to get additional money matched with their deposit for projected weight loss. All of the participants received a one-hour consultation for a healthy weight loss at the beginning.

Measures:

Weight-loss, diabetes risk score (DRS), and cardiovascular risk outcomes. Analyses: Linear and logistic regressions for completed cases with adjustments for clustering effect at group level.

Results:

IG lost on average more pounds (p=0.027), reduced BMI (p=0.04), and reduced in DRS (p=0.011) compared to NIG at week 16. At the 12-week follow-up period, those in IG plus deposit subgroup had twice the odds (OR=2.2, p=0.042) and those in the standard IG had three times the odds of achieving weight loss goals than NIG; those in the IG plus deposit group reduced DRS by 0.4 (p=0.045).

Conclusion:

Monetary incentives appear to be effective in reducing weight and diabetes risk.
Planning theory - a critical review of the dominant planning models in 21st century and proposed reconstruction
Authors: Poledica Bojana
Published: February 2014

The entire work is based on the assumption that the root of the planning
crisis at the global level is largely found in the inadequate development of
planning theory. The purpose of this research is to find a theoretical basis
that would allow better theory and practice linking within a more efficient
planning system. By applying the method of analysis and synthesis, historical
and descriptive method, the development of theoretical thinking about
problems and issues in the planning is presented, then the current state of
theory in view of the dominant models and their "critical" points. In this
paper, namely, it is pointed out that because of these points, planning, as a
mechanism of state intervention, still does not respond adequately to current
and future challenges and demands of society. Accordingly, and with the
realization of the basic objectives and applying the method of induction and
deduction, planning theory reconstruction has been proposed, which is the
main result of the work.
Drying of polymer powder in fluidized bed: Modeling of multizone dryer
Authors: Ostrovskii Nickolay
Published: February 2014

The process of drying of porous polymer powder (polypropylene) intended to
remove the solvent (heptane) is analyzed. The dryer consists of two stages
(apparatus) with multizone fluidized bed. The mathematical model of the
process in multizone fluidized bed is proposed. The rate-limiting step,
depending on diameter of polymer particles, is determined. It was found that
in relatively large particles (>200 ?m) the rate of drying is limited by
intraparticle diffusion. A way to decrease the energy consumption in drying
has been also discussed and verified in experiments.
Effect of goat breed on the meat quality
Authors: Ivanovic Snezana , Stojanovic Zoran , Nesic Ksenija , Pisinov Boris , Baltic Milan , Popov-Raljic Jovanka , Djuric Jelena
Published: February 2014

The quality of goat meat has recently become an important aspect in the
marketing of goats in Serbia. The aim of this study was to compare some goat
meat quality parameters of various races and to determine the differences
between them. Goat breeds were Balkan goat and Serbian White goat, both
female in the age of four years. Analysis of quality parameters: chemical
composition (moisture, protein, total fat, ash,), pH value, fatty acids,
amino acids, microelements content, tenderness, cooking loss and colour
measurements were done. Statistically significant difference was found
between the samples of two groups of goat meat (P <0.05) in relation to:
live weight (kg), water (%), fat (%), protein (%), ash (%), among 11 of 15
tested fatty acids, amino acid leucin, sensory examination of fresh meat for
the palpatory evaluated firmness and in the content of copper and zinc.
Statistically significant differences between the groups did not existed
regarding the pH value, fatty acids eicosenoic, cis-heptadecenoic,
t-elaidic, t-linolelaidic and amino acids alanine, arginine, aspartic acid,
cysteine, glutamic acid, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine,
phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, valine.
Also there was no statistically significant difference in instrumental
testing of the meat color, sensory evaluation of surface color, visual
evaluated structure, olfactory evaluated odor and iron and manganese. These
results suggest that the race of animal has an impact on meat quality.
Changes in electrocardiogram in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Vasic Nada , Stevic Ruza , Jovanovic Dragana , Mihailovic-Vucinic Violeta , Djukanovic Verica , Trifunovic Dajana
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Abnormalities in the electrocardiogram are more frequent in
patients with cardiac sarcoidosis than in those having other diseases. The
aim of this study was to determine the types and incidence of abnormalities
in the electrocardiogram in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis. Results. The
study sample included 30 patients (22 women and 8 men), their mean age being
45 years (23- 64). The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by echocardiography
in 25 (83%) and by radionuclide ventriculography technetium-99m in five
patients (17%). Abnormal electrocardiograms were found in 28 (93%) patients.
The rhythm disturbance was recorded in 21 (69%): arrhythmias in 11 (37%),
conduction disturbances in eight (26%), associated in two (6%), changes in
the ST-T in 7 (23%). Micro R from V1 to V3 was observed in 15 (50%).patients.
The recorded echocardiography granuloma in the septum and occurrence of
arrhythmias were highly correlated with electrocardiogram findings ?micro R?
V1 to V3 (p <0.007, p <0.02). Conclusion. Unusual, nonspecific changes in the
electrocardiogram of patients with cardiac sarcoidosis, such as the finding
of reduced tooth R V1-V3, shows a possible affection of the septum and
frequent occurrences of dysrhythmias.
Analsysis of frequency of tuberculosis in smokers
Authors: Skodric-Trifunovic Vesna , Mihailovic-Vucinic Violeta , Stjepanovic Mihailo , Radisavljevic-Pavlovic Stasa , Adzic-Vukicevic Tatjana , Ilic Branislav
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Smoking and tuberculosis are among the most important problems
of public health. Smoking and tuberculosis are responsible for 5 million and
2 million deaths per year, respectively, whereas smoking is responsible for
half a million deaths in patients with tuberculosis. Discussion and Review
of Literature. Nicotine is a significant suppressor of function of
macrophages, dendritic cells and T-cells, which explains the
immunosuppressive features of smoking that help develop the infection.
Tobacco smoke contains many substances with immunomodulatory effects,
including nicotine, carbon monoxide, acrolein, peroxynitrite and many
others. The dominant immune and pathophysiological mechanism is the
reduction of synthesis of tumor necrosis factor in lung macrophages, leading
to increased susceptibility of persons who are exposed to tobacco smoke for
developing active tuberculosis after infection and increased susceptibility
to the development of other infections, such as infections of Gram-negative
bacteria. Based on epidemiological studies and studies on this problem in
the past 50 years, the World Health Organization has published the finding
that smoking increases the risk of infection with M. tuberculosis, increases
the risk of progression of infection to active disease and the risk of
death. The prevalence of tuberculosis is higher in smokers and former
smokers than in nonsmokers. The risk of tuberculosis depends on the number
of cigarettes smoked and length of period the person has been a smoker.
Passive smoking accelerates the development of active tuberculosis. in
children who live with persons suffering from active tuberculosis,
Conclusion. Given the multiple consequences of the association between
smoking and tuberculosis, prevention of smoking may be an important measure
in the control of tuberculosis.
Pulmonary infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria−single centre experience
Authors: Adzic-Vukicevic Tatjana , Blanka Ana , Laban-Lazovic Marija , Skodric-Trifunovic Vesna , Trifunovic Dajana , Savic Branislava
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Non-tuberculosis mycobacteria are environmental organisms found
in soil and water worldwide, and an infection caused by non-tuberculosis
mycobacteria is less frequently found than the one associated with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This study was designed to evaluate data relating
to non-tuberculosis mycobacteria in patients with clinical importance.
Material and Methods. Of 12 patients (pts) admitted to the Department of
Pulmonology, Clinical Centre of Serbia in Belgrade during 2010- 2011, seven
(58.33%) were men and five (41.67%) were women. Bacteriological and
radiographic findings, co?morbidity, treatment management and outcome were
evaluated from medical records. Results. Using GenoType? Mycobacterium CM/AS
(Hain Lifescience) assays for identification of isolated cultures of NTM)
M.xenopi was found in six (50%) pts, M.avium complex in two (16.67%) pts,
M.kansasii and M.xenopi in one (8.33%), M. gordone, M.abscessus and
M.peregrinum in one (8.33%) patient each. Cavitary lesions were most
frequently determined on high resolution computed tomography in five (41.67%)
pts, followed with consolidation in two (16.67%) pts, cavitation with
fibronodular lesions and bronchiectasis in one (8.33%) patient each.
Comorbidities were noticed in nine (75%) pts, with chronic obstructive
pulmonary diseases most frequently found in six (50%) pts. According to
American Thoracic Society definition and criteria, treatment was administered
in nine (75%) pts. Conclusion. In order to find the right treatment, it is
important to identify non-tuberculosis mycobacteria lung infection by culture
methods, at least two positive, accompanied with high resolution computed
tomography changes.
Vasculitis - Wegener’s granulomatosis in pulmonary practice
Authors: Jovanovic Dragana , Stevic Ruza , Samardzic Natalija , Roksandic-Milenkovic Marina , Velinovic Marta , Maric Dragana
Published: February 2014

Introduction and Review of Literature. Diagnosis of Wegener?s granulomatosis
in the early stage is difficult because nonspecific symptoms of the disease
mimic other disorders. Our Experience. A retrospective review of case records
of 37 patients with Wegener?s granulomatosis referred to the Institute for
Lung Diseases in Belgrade to be diagnosed and treated over a 15-year period
was carried out. There were 37 patients (20 males and 17 females), ranging in
age from 18 to 73 years (mean age 46.2 years). The mean period from the onset
of first symptoms to diagnosis of Wegener?s granulomatosis was 4.59?6.15
months. The American College of Rheumatology criteria were fulfilled in all
patients. Twenty-five of 37 patients had evidence of systemic, generalized
form of Wegener?s granulomatosis and a limited involvement of the upper and
lower respiratory system occurred in 12 cases. The frequency of different
system involvement expressed in percents was as follows: the upper
respiratory tract 64.8%, the lower respiratory tract 100%, the kidneys 67.5%,
the musculoskeletal system 40.5%, the skin 27.2%, the eyes 8.1%, the nervous
system in two patients. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies test was
positive in 32 (6.5%) patients, and negative in 5 (13.5%). All patients were
antinuclear antibodies negative. Histological evidence of granulomatous
vasculitis was obtained in 34 (91.9%), whereas in three patients the
diagnosis was based on clinical manifestations and positive c-anti-neutrophil
cytoplasmic antibodies test.
Pulmonary histiocytosis
Authors: Milenkovic Branislava , Bogdanovic Andrija , Cvok Tijana , Mitic Javorka , Stojsic Jelena , Dudvarski-Ilic Aleksandra
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Langerhans cell histiocytosis encompasses a group of disorders
of unknown origin with different clinical presentations and outcomes. It is
characterized by infiltration of the involved tissues by large numbers of
Langerhans cells, often organized into granulomas. The accumulation of these
cells causes the classic lytic bone lesions, skin rashes, lymphadenopathy,
splenomegaly, and dysfunction of organ such as the pituitary gland, lungs,
liver, and bone marrow. Pulmonary histiocytosis. Adult pulmonary Langerhans
cell histiocytosis is a rare disorder of unknown etiology. It occurs
predominantly in male smokers, with an incidence peak between 20 and 40 years
of age. High-resolution computed tomography of the chest can show nodules,
cavitated nodules, and thickand thin-walled cysts. The definite diagnosis of
pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis requires identification of
Langerhans? cell granulomas infiltrating and destroying distal bronchioles,
which is usually achieved by lung biopsy at a site selected by chest
high-resolution computed tomography. Treatment. Treatment options for adults
have never been clarified by a clinical trial. The published literature
provides minimal data on the comparative efficacy of various treatment
options which include surgery/curettage, steroids, radiation, and various
chemotherapy regimens. The improved understanding of the mechanisms involved
in the pathogenesis of pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis should help in
the development of specific therapeutic strategies and effective treatment.
Interstitial lung diseases in women
Authors: Nagorni-Obradovic Ljudmila , Stevic Ruza , Videnovic-Ivanov Jelica , Mihailovic-Vucinic Violeta , Pesut Dragica , Stjepanovic Mihailo
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Interstitial lung diseases include a heterogeneous group of
disorders that may affect men and women, but some of them are more frequent
in females. Therefore, it is very important to take into account the female
gender as a specific risk factor for some of these diseases. Discussion and
Review of Literature. Interstitial lung diseases in women include the
following: 1. diseases specific for female gender such as
lymphangioleiomyomatosis, 2. disorders predominant in women due to the
underlying disease (breast cancer and collagen vascular diseases: systemic
lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, progressive systemic sclerosis,
dermatomyositis and polymyositis, Sj?gren syndrome), 3. idiopathic lung
diseases predominant in women such an idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonia, 4.
interstitial lung diseases predominant in women for unknown reason. All of
these diseases have a wide spectrum of thoracic manifestations. Chest x-ray
is a basic method for the detection, but computerized tomography is more
useful for the assessment of the extensivity of parenchymal, airway and
pleural manifestations of these diseases. Conclusion. A great variety of
manifestations of interstitial lung diseases in women makes their detailed
review impossible. Therefore, this article gives a short and overall review
of these conditions.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of tocilizumab in combination with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis: A Markov model based on data from Serbia, country in socioeconomic transition
Authors: Kostic Marina , Jovanovic Snezana , Tomovic Marina , Popovic-Milenkovic Marija , Jankovic Slobodan
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. Recent studies have shown that biological treatments for
rheumatoid arthritis can change the course of rheumatoid arthritis and
improve functional ability of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In spite of
this fact, use of biological therapy is still limited by high prices of these
medicines, especially in countries in socioeconomic transition. The aim of
our study was to compare costeffectiveness of a combination of tocilizumab
and methotrexate with methotrexate alone for rheumatoid arthritis in Serbia,
a country in socioeconomic transition. Methods. For the purpose of our study
we designed a Markov model using data on therapy efficacy from the available
literature, and data on the costs of health states calculated from records of
actual patients treated in the Clinical Center Kragujevac, Serbia. The
duration of one cycle in our model was set at one month, and the time horizon
was 480 months (40 years). The study was done from the social perspective,
and all the costs and outcomes were discounted for 3% per year. Results.
Treating rheumatoid arthritis with diseasemodifying antirheumatic drugs
(DMARDs) alone was more cost-effective in comparison with a combination of
biologic treatment with tocilizumab and DMARDs. The total costs for treating
a patient with DMARDs for one year were on average 261,945.42 RSD, or
2,497.70 Euro and the total costs for treatment with tocilizimab plus DMARDs
were on average 1,959,217.44 RSD, or 18,659.20 Euro. However, these results
are susceptible to changes in costs and treatment effects of tocilizumab in
patients with more severe forms of rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusion. Our
results show that the use of tocilizumab for rheumatoid arthrits in economic
environment of Serbia is not cost-effective. Use of tocilizumab for treating
rheumatoid arthritis can become affordable, if costs of its use become lower.
In order to start using expensive biologic medicines in patients in
transitional countries, special strategy and pricing policy of international
pharmaceutical companies are necessary, which would include calculation of
prices of biologic medicines on the basis of local pharmacoeconomic studies.
The role of biochemical markers as early indicators of cardiac damage and prognostic parameters of perinatal asphyxia
Authors: Simovic Aleksandra , Kosutic Jovan , Prijic Sergej , Knezevic Jasmina , Vujic Ana , Stojanovic Nadezda
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. In recent years, the focus of interest of the scientific
community is the application of heart markers as early indicators and
prognostic parameters of perinatal asphyxia (PA). The aim of this study was
to evaluate the significance of clinical application of heart markers in term
newborns with perinatal asphyxia. Methods. During a 3- year period we
analyzed 91 full-term newborns (55 with and 36 without perinatal asphyxia).
In all the subjects within the first 24-48 h after birth, we simultaneously
determined serum concentrations of cardiac troponin I, brain natriuretic
peptide, MB fraction of creatine kinase (CK-MB) and Creactive protein.
Results. In the group of full-term neonates with PA significantly higher
levels of cardiac troponinI (p = 0.000), CK-MB fraction (p = 0.000), brain
natriuretic peptide (p = 0.003) and C-reactive protein (p = 0.017) were
found, compared to the group of healthy full-term newborns. In merged group
(n = 91) cardiac troponin I level correlated with the fifth minute Apgar
score (r = - 0.637, p = 0.000) and the serum lactate concentration in the
first 12h after birth (r = 0.529, p = 0.000). Early increase in cardiac
troponin I > 0.135 ?g/L predicted the risk of death with the sensitivity of
84.6% and specificity of 85.9%, while the increase in CK-MB fraction, brain
natriuretic peptide and C-reactive protein did not have a predictive value
with respect to a mortality outcome. Conclusion. Among the tested cardiac
markers, cardiac troponin I is the most sensitive and the only reliable early
predictor of mortality in fullterm neonates with perinatal asphyxia.
Clinical features of endobronchial tuberculosis
Authors: Samardzic Natalija , Jovanovic Dragana , Markovic-Denic Ljiljana , Roksandic-Milenkovic Marina , Popevic Spasoje , Skodric-Trifunovic Vesna
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. Endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) is a specific type of
pulmonary tuberculosis which often affect the tracheobronchial tree, and can
be microbiologically and/or pathohistologically confirmed. The aim of the
study was to determine the clinical features and diagnostic aspects of EBTB.
Methods. This retrospective study was conducted at the Clinic for Lung
Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, from January 1997 to December
2007. All patients with EBTB confirmed by bronchoscopy with biopsy during a
study period were analysed. Data included the patient?s medical history, a
physical exam, chest X-ray, mycobacterial analysis of sputum samples,
endoscopic types and patohistological confirmation. Results. In the study,
57.6% of the patients were males. The most frequent symptoms were cough
(71.2%), malaise (54.2%), fever (49.2%), weight loss (40.7%), and hemoptysis
(13.6%). Most of the patients were diagnosed within 30 days of symptoms
onset. Sputum examination showed acid-fast bacilli in 31.4% of the patients,
while sputum culture for tuberculosis bacilli were positive in 55.9% of the
patients. The most common radiographic localization was in the upper lung
lobes (63.5%). Cavities were present in 60.4% of the patients. The most
common endoscopic subtype determined by bronchoscopy were nonspecific
bronchitis (39.9%) and edematous-hyperemic subtype (36.4%). Conclusion. EBTB
was more frequent among men, and among people in their fifties in our
country. Detailed bronchoscopic examination, correlated with clinical and
laboratory findings, will improve diagnostic rate and provide timely therapy.
Bleeding gastroduodenal ulcers in patients without Helicobacter pylori infection and without exposure to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Authors: Smolovic Brigita , Stanisavljevic Dejana , Golubovic Mileta , Vuckovic Ljiljana , Milicic Biljana , Djuranovic Srdjan
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim. A high risk of bleeding in Helicobacter pylori
(H.pylori)-negative, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)-negative
ulcers highlights the clinical importance of analysis of the changing trends
of peptic ulcer disease. The aim of the study was to investigate the risk
factors for ulcer bleeding in patients with non-H. pylori infection, and with
no NSAIDs use. Methods. A prospective study included patients with
endoscopically diagnosed ulcer disease. The patients were without H. pylori
infection (verified by pathohistology and serology) and without exposure to
NSAIDs and proton pump inhibitors (PPI) within 4 weeks before endoscopy.
After endoscopy the patients were divided into 2 groups: the study group of
48 patients with bleeding ulcer and the control group of 47 patients with
ulcer, but with no bleeding. Prior to endoscopy they had completed a
questionnaire about demographics, risk factors and habits. The platelet
function, von Willebrand factor (vWF) and blood groups were determined.
Histopathological analysis of biopsy samples were performed with a modified
Sydney system. The influence of bile reflux was analyzed by Bile reflux index
(BRI). Results. Age, gender, tobacco and alcohol use did not affect the
bleeding rate. The risk of bleeding did not depend on concomitant diseases (p
= 0.509) and exposure to stress (p = 0.944). Aspirin was used by 16/48
(33.3%) patients with bleeding ulcer, as opposed to 7/47 (14.9%) patients who
did not bleed (p = 0.036). Abnormal platelet function had 12/48 (25.0%)
patients who bled, as opposed to 2/47 (4.3%) patients who did not bleed (p =
0.004). Patients with BRI < 14 bled in 79.2%, and did not bleed in 57.4% of
the cases (p = 0.023). There was no statistical difference between groups in
regards to blood groups and range of vWF. Antrum atrophy was found in 14/48
(29.2%) patients with bleeding ulcer and in only 5/47 (10.6%) patients who
had ulcer without bleeding (p = 0.024). Conclusion. Abnormal platelet
function, aspirin use and antrum atrophy were the risk factors for ulcer
bleeding in non-H. pylori, non- NSAIDs ulcer disease.
Switch to hypomania induced by repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and partial sleep deprivation added to antidepressant: A case report
Authors: Krstic Jelena , Ilic Tihomir
Published: February 2014

Introduction. Bipolar depression is often unrecognized and difficult to treat
because of two opposite problems: treatment resistance and risk of manic
switch. Case report. A 53-year-old female was suffering from unipolar
depressive disorder since the age of 36. During a recent major depressive
episode pervasive feelings of sadness, lost of interest in activities, severe
insomnia and highly expressed somatic anxiety dominated 7 months. After
unsuccessful tries with two different antidepressants of adequate doses and
duration, slow rate repetitive trascranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was
started, but the patient stayed at the fixed dose of antidepressant. Partial
sleep deprivation (PSD) was additionally applied twice during these 2 weeks
with the idea to boost up, or enhance rTMS treatment response. At the last
two rTMS sessions depression obviously meliorated, but the patient also
expressed symptoms of hypomania. The therapy of rTMS was stopped, hypomanic
symptoms gradually vanished and two weeks after the rTMS treatment the
patient was euthymic. Antidepressant was kept on. In a follow-up period of 2
years the diagnose of bipolar affective disorder was definitely established.
Conclusion. This case report shows that a combination of slow rate rTMS and
partial sleep deprivation in the patient at the fixed dose of
antidepressants, have strong synergistic effect even with potential to induce
hypomanic switch, that is the first description in the literature to our
knowledge.
Protecting Travelers from Typhoid Fever
Authors: Rao Nalini
Published: February 2014

Typhoid fever is unique to humans. It remains a significant health problem in many developing countries, and poses a risk to travelers who visit such endemic regions. The proportion of cases acquired in foreign countries has continued to rise, reaching 70% in 1984. The risk of typhoid fever should not be underestimated as a travel-related illness.

The incidence of typhoid fever in the united states has decreased from one case per 100,00 population in 1955 to about 0.2 cases per 100,000 in 1966, and has since remained the same. However, international travelers account for more than two-thirds of the reported cases. The percentage of imported cases increased from 33% during 1967 through 1972, to 70% during 1983 through 1984. The majority of the imported cases were from mexico (39%) and india (15%). During the decade 1975 through 1984, 43% of travel-associated cases were non-U.S. citizens. the risk of acquiring typhoid varied from country to country and was the highest for travelers to india and pakistan, with over 400 cases per million, compared with mexico, with 34 per million, and europe, with 0.6 cases per million travelers.
Statistical Analysis of Stratified 2X2 Tables
Authors: Davis Charles S.
Published: February 2014

Previous papers in this series have discussed design and analysis issues for epidemiologic data that can be presented in a 2 × 2 table.‘” the primary focus was on methods for determining the extent of association between a dichotomous disease state and a dichotomous risk factor. methods appropriate for cross-sectional, prospective, and retrospective studies using matched or unmatched samples were described.

In order to study the association between disease status and a dichotomous risk factor, it is often necessary to take into account other variables that may influence either the disease status or the risk factor. For example, Hemming, Overall, and Britt studied the association between the occurrence of nosocomial infections (risk factor) and mortality (disease status) in a large cohort of infants in a newborn intensive care unit. these authors analyzed the data using methods for summarizing the results from a single 2 × 2 table. However, because very low birth weight is associated strongly with both the acquisition of nosocomial infection and mortality, it may be more appropriate to control or adjust for the effects of birthweight.
Implementation of the Chronic Care Model in Small Medical Practices Improves Cardiovascular Risk but Not Glycemic Control
Authors: Frei Anja , Senn Oliver , Chmiel Corinne , Reissner Josiane , Held Ulrike , Rosemann Thomas
Published: February 2014

OBJECTIVE

To test whether the implementation of elements of the Chronic Care Model (CCM) via a specially trained practice nurse leads to an improved cardiovascular risk profile among type 2 diabetes patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cluster randomized controlled trial with primary care physicians as the unit of randomization was conducted in the German part of Switzerland. Three hundred twenty-six type 2 diabetes patients (age >18 years; at least one glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] level of ≥7.0% [53 mmol/mol] in the preceding year) from 30 primary care practices participated. The intervention included implementation of CCM elements and involvement of practice nurses in the care of type 2 diabetes patients. Primary outcome was HbA1c levels. The secondary outcomes were blood pressure (BP), LDL cholesterol, accordance with CCM (assessed by Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care [PACIC] questionnaire), and quality of life (assessed by the 36-item short-form health survey [SF-36]).

RESULTS

After 1 year, HbA1c levels decreased significantly in both groups with no significant difference between groups (−0.05% [−0.60 mmol/mol]; P = 0.708). Among intervention group patients, systolic BP (−3.63; P = 0.050), diastolic BP (−4.01; P < 0.001), LDL cholesterol (−0.21; P = 0.033), and PACIC subscores (P < 0.001 to 0.048) significantly improved compared with control group patients. No differences between groups were shown in the SF-36 subscales.

CONCLUSIONS

A chronic care approach according to the CCM and involving practice nurses in diabetes care improved the cardiovascular risk profile and is experienced by patients as a better structured care. Our study showed that care according to the CCM can be implemented even in small primary care practices, which still represent the usual structure in most European health care systems.
Cracked Tooth Syndrome in an Unrestored Maxillary Premolar: A Case Report
Authors: Batalha-Silva S , Gondo R , Stolf SC , Baratieri LN
Published: February 2014

Cracked tooth syndrome is known to occur most frequently in heavily restored teeth. Nevertheless, when the symptoms occur in intact teeth, there is difficulty in obtaining a correct diagnosis because it is difficult for the dentist to find where the crack is located. This clinical report describes the diagnostic procedures and the direct bonded composite restoration used to restore an incompletely fractured unrestored maxillary premolar in a 22-year-old female patient. To achieve a correct diagnosis, the following were performed: periapical and bitewing radiographs, percussion and thermal vitality tests, a bite test, and the placement of a stainless steel band. Once the symptoms ceased with band placement, cone beam computed tomography, transillumination, macro photographs, and isolation with a rubber dam helped to visualize the crack line along the occlusal surface involving distal and mesial marginal ridges. The crack was traced using a high-speed tungsten carbide bur until the fracture line was not visible. The tooth was restored with a direct composite resin, associated with a total-etch adhesive system, and the symptoms were immediately eliminated.
Influence of caffeine and temperature on corrosion-resistance of CoCrMo alloy
Authors: Romas Manuela , Munoz Anna , Mareci Daniel , Vidal Carlos , Curteanu Silvia , Sutiman Daniel
Published: February 2014

The inhibitory activity of caffeine (1,3,7-trimethyl xanthine) on artificial saliva was studied on a CoCrMo alloy using different electrochemical methods: open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results show that caffeine produces an inhibitory effect on the anodic currents due to its adsorption on the surface of the alloy. Temperature is another parameter with an influence on corrosion processes, so thermodynamic data were obtained from Arrhenius plots and Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The protective action of caffeine is enhanced at high temperatures at OCP, while for potentiodynamic experiments high temperatures block the inhibitory activity of caffeine and the corrosion rate increases. The process may also be studied by a simulation, determining the functional dependence between OCP, corrosion current density (i corr), corrosion potential (E corr), breakdown potential (E bd) and temperature and amount of caffeine in artificial saliva, for Heraenium® CE. The neural network-based methodology applied in this work provides accurate results, thus proving to be an efficient modelling technique.
Self-Management Goal Setting: Identifying the Practice Patterns of Community-Based Physical Therapists
Authors: Peng Karen , Bourret Drew , Khan Usman , Truong Henry , Nixon Stephanie , Shaw James , McKay Sandra
Published: February 2014

Purpose: To describe the collaborative goal-setting practices of community-based physical therapists trained in a self-management (SM) approach who work with clients with chronic conditions and to describe clients' goal-achievement rates. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for 296 randomly selected home-care clients from July 2009 through July 2010 using a chart-abstraction form created to capture demographic data and information related to goal setting and achievement. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, and Pearson's chi-square tests. Results: There was no significant relationship between sex, age, or number of chronic conditions and setting SM or non-self-management (NSM) goals or the type of SM goal set. The majority of goals set were “action” as opposed to “verbal” goals. A high proportion (89–100%) of both SM and NSM goals were met. Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware that it is possible to set SM goals regardless of the client's sex, age, or number of chronic conditions. Other possible influences on goal setting, such as severity of chronic conditions and challenges of the health care system, should be further investigated.
Mass Spectrometry Analysis Coupled with de novo Sequencing Reveals Amino Acid Substitutions in Nucleocapsid Protein from Influenza A Virus
Authors: Li Zijian , Sun Wanchun , Wu Donglin , Gao Xiang , Sun Ningning , Liu Ning
Published: February 2014

Amino acid substitutions in influenza A virus are the main reasons for both antigenic shift and virulence change, which result from non-synonymous mutations in the viral genome. Nucleocapsid protein (NP), one of the major structural proteins of influenza virus, is responsible for regulation of viral RNA synthesis and replication. In this report we used LC-MS/MS to analyze tryptic digestion of nucleocapsid protein of influenza virus (A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 H1N1), which was isolated and purified by SDS poly-acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Thus, LC-MS/MS analyses, coupled with manual de novo sequencing, allowed the determination of three substituted amino acid residues R452K, T423A and N430T in two tryptic peptides. The obtained results provided experimental evidence that amino acid substitutions resulted from non-synonymous gene mutations could be directly characterized by mass spectrometry in proteins of RNA viruses such as influenza A virus.
Silicate Removal in Aluminum Hydroxide Co-Precipitation Process
Authors: Tokoro Chiharu , Suzuki Shinya , Haraguchi Daisuke , Izawa Sayaka
Published: February 2014

The removal mechanisms of silicate using an aluminum hydroxide co-precipitation process was investigated and compared with an adsorption process, in order to establish an effective and validated method for silicate removal from wastewater. Adsorption isotherms, XRD and FT-IR analyses showed that silicate uptake occurred by adsorption to boehmite for initial Si/Al molar ratios smaller than two, but by precipitation of poorly crystalline kaolinite for the ratios larger than two, in both co-precipitation and adsorption processes. Silicate was removed by two steps: (i) an initial rapid uptake in a few seconds; and (ii) a slow uptake over several hours in both processes. The uptake rate in the first step was higher in the co-precipitation process than in adsorption process, presumably due to increased silicate adsorption to boehmite and rapid precipitation of kaolinite. These results suggest that silicate removal using aluminum salts could be effectively achieved if the pH adjustment and aluminum concentration are strictly controlled.
The Effect of Exogenous Zinc Concentration on the Responsiveness of MC3T3-E1 Pre-Osteoblasts to Surface Microtopography: Part II (Differentiation)
Authors: Dorst Kathryn , Rammelkamp Derek , Hadjiargyrou Michael , Meng Yizhi
Published: February 2014

Osseointegration of bone implants is a vital part of the recovery process. Numerous studies have shown that micropatterned geometries can promote cell-substrate associations and strengthen the bond between tissue and the implanted material. As demonstrated previously, exogenous zinc levels can influence the responsiveness of pre-osteoblasts to micropatterns and modify their migratory behavior. In this study, we sought to determine the effect of exogenous zinc on differentiation of osteoblasts cultured on micropatterned vs. planar substrates. Levels of activated metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), as well as early stage differentiation marker alkaline phosphatase, were altered with the addition of zinc. These results suggest that exogenous zinc concentration and micropatterning may interdependently modulate osteoblast differentiation.
CFRP-Strengthening and Long-Term Performance of Fatigue Critical Welds of a Steel Box Girder
Authors: Koller Roland , Stoecklin Iwan , Valet Sebastian , Terrasi Giovanni
Published: February 2014

Empa’s research efforts in the 1990s provided evidence that a considerable increase of the fatigue strength of welded aluminum beams can be achieved by externally bonding pultruded carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates using rubber-toughened epoxies over the fatigue-weak welding zone on their tensile flange. The reinforcing effect obtained is determined by the stiffness of the unidirectional CFRP laminate which has twice the elastic modulus of aluminum. One can therefore easily follow that an unstressed CFRP laminate reinforcement of welded beams made of steel will not lead to a substantial increase in fatigue strength of the steel structure. This consideration led to the idea of prestressing an external reinforcement of the welded zone. The present investigation describes experimental studies to identify the adhesive system suitable for achieving high creep and fatigue strength of the prestressed CFRP patch. Experimental results (Wöhler-fields) of shear-lap-specimens and welded steel beams reinforced with prestressed CFRP laminates are presented. The paper concludes by presenting a field application, the reinforcement of a steel pendulum by adhesively bonded prestressed CFRP laminates to the tensile flanges of the welded box girder. Inspections carried out periodically on this structure revealed neither prestress losses nor crack initiation after nine years of service.
A Depth-Based Fall Detection System Using a Kinect® Sensor
Authors: Gasparrini Samuele , Cippitelli Enea , Spinsante Susanna , Gambi Ennio
Published: February 2014

We propose an automatic, privacy-preserving, fall detection method for indoor environments, based on the usage of the Microsoft Kinect® depth sensor, in an “on-ceiling” configuration, and on the analysis of depth frames. All the elements captured in the depth scene are recognized by means of an Ad-Hoc segmentation algorithm, which analyzes the raw depth data directly provided by the sensor. The system extracts the elements, and implements a solution to classify all the blobs in the scene. Anthropometric relationships and features are exploited to recognize one or more human subjects among the blobs. Once a person is detected, he is followed by a tracking algorithm between different frames. The use of a reference depth frame, containing the set-up of the scene, allows one to extract a human subject, even when he/she is interacting with other objects, such as chairs or desks. In addition, the problem of blob fusion is taken into account and efficiently solved through an inter-frame processing algorithm. A fall is detected if the depth blob associated to a person is near to the floor. Experimental tests show the effectiveness of the proposed solution, even in complex scenarios.