bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of flagellar force generated by a hyperactivated spermatozoon
Authors: Ishijima Sumio
Published: June 2011

The flagellar force generated by a hyperactivated monkey spermatozoon was evaluated using the resistive force theory applied to the activated (nonhyperactivated) and hyperactivated flagellar waves that were obtained using high-speed video microscopy and digital image processing in order to clarify the mechanism of sperm penetration through the zona pellucida. No difference in the maximum propulsive force, which was parallel to the longitudinal sperm head axis, was found between the activated and hyperactivated spermatozoa. The maximum transverse force (45 pN), which was perpendicular to the longitudinal sperm head axis, of the hyperactivated spermatozoon was ∼2.5 times its propulsive force. As the beat frequency of the flagellar beating remarkably decreased during the hyperactivation, the slowly oscillating transverse force (5 Hz) by the hyperactivated spermatozoon seems to be most effective for sperm penetration through the zona pellucida.
Roosters affected by epididymal lithiasis present local alteration in vitamin D3, testosterone and estradiol levels as well as estrogen receptor 2 (β) expression
Authors: Oliveira André G , Dornas Rubem A P , Praes Lílian C , Hess Rex A , Mahecha Germán A B , Oliveira Cleida A
Published: June 2011

Epididymal lithiasis is a reproductive dysfunction of roosters that is associated with loss of fertility and is characterized by the formation of calcium stones in the lumen of the efferent ductules of the epididymal region. The efferent ductules of birds are responsible for the reabsorption of the fluid coming from the testis as well as luminal calcium. It has been hypothesized that the epididymal stone formation may be related to the impairment of local fluid or calcium homeostasis, which depends on hormones such as estradiol (E2). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate possible alterations in the expression of ERα (ESR1) and ERβ (ESR2) in the epididymal region of roosters affected by epididymal lithiasis. The study was performed by immunohistochemistry and western blotting assays. In addition, the concentrations of E2, vitamin D3, and testosterone, which are also key hormones in maintenance of calcium homeostasis, were determined in the plasma and epididymal region, by ELISA. It was observed that ESR2 expression is increased in all segments of the epididymal region of affected roosters, whereas ESR1 levels are not altered. Moreover, the hormone concentration profiles were changed, as in the epididymal region of roosters with lithiasis the E2levels were increased and vitamin D3 as well as testosterone concentrations were significantly decreased. These results suggest that a hormonal imbalance may be involved with the origin and progression of the epididymal lithiasis, possibly by affecting the local fluid or calcium homeostasis.
Puberty and Influencing Factors in Schoolgirls Living in Istanbul: End of the Secular Trend?
Authors: Atay Zeynep , Turan Serap , Guran Tulay , Furman Andrzej , Bereket Abdullah
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To (1) establish the median ages at menarche and pubertal stages and investigate influential factors and (2) assess the secular trend in reaching puberty in a transitional society.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A probit method was used to calculate the median age at menarche and pubertal stages from a cross-sectional study of 4868 healthy schoolgirls (aged 6–18 years) in Istanbul, Turkey. The findings were compared with those from a similar study performed 4 decades earlier. Logistic regression was used to analyze the associations between the odds of attaining puberty stages and putatively influential factors. Simple statistical models were used to test the effects of BMI and consumption of certain foods on the onset of menarche.

RESULTS:

The median age at menarche is 12.74 years. The median ages at breast stages 2 through 5 are 9.65, 10.10, 11.75, and 14.17 years, respectively, and at pubic-hair stages 2 through 5 are 10.09, 11.19, 12.33, and 14.68 years, respectively. Girls from upper socioeconomic classes are more likely to reach menarche and B4 and B5 stages. Higher BMI seems to be a promoting factor for attaining menarche. Intrauterine growth and gestational age had no effect. The average age at menarche was not associated with the consumption of milk, eggs, chicken, or fish.

CONCLUSIONS:

The secular trend in puberty is probably about to end in Turkey. Although the median ages at the breast stages show a decreasing trend, the median age at menarche is approximately the same as it was 4 decades ago. Socioeconomic status and BMI are important, and related, factors that affect the age at menarche and pubertal stages.
“Vodka Energy”: Too Much for the Adolescent Nephron?
Authors: Schöffl Isabelle , Kothmann Jürgen F. , Schöffl Volker , Rupprecht Harald D. , Rupprecht Thomas
Published: June 2011

We report here the case of a 17-year-old boy who suffered acute renal failure after consuming 3 L of energy drink (ED) in combination with 1 L of vodka amounting to 4600 mg of taurine and 780 mg of caffeine mixed with 380 g of alcohol. The consumption of this mixture is extremely popular in adolescents, because the joint effects of caffeine and taurine reduce the effect of alcohol. Although there have been case reports of deaths linked to the consumption of EDs with and without alcohol, awareness of the possible dangers is still low. The fact that athletes and major sports events are sponsored by ED manufacturers implies that they may even be healthy and performance-enhancing.
Computer-Assisted Management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Lavigne John V. , Dulcan Mina K. , LeBailly Susan A. , Binns Helen J. , Cummins Thomas K. , Jha Poonam
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVES:

Medication management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is often suboptimal. We examined whether (1) brief physician training plus computer-assisted medication management led to greater reduction in ADHD symptoms and (2) adherence to the recommended titration protocol produced greater symptomatic improvement.

METHODS:

A randomized medication trial was conducted that included 24 pediatric practices. Children who met criteria for ADHD were randomly assigned by practice to treatment-as-usual or a specialized care group in which physicians received 2 hours of didactic training on medication management of ADHD plus training on a software program to assist in monitoring improvement. Parent and teacher reports were obtained before treatment and 4, 9, and 12 months after starting medication.

RESULTS:

Children in both specialized care and treatment-as-usual groups improved on the ADHD Rating Scales and SNAP-IV, but there were no group differences in improvement rates. Brief physician training alone did not produce improvements. When recommended titration procedures were followed, however, outcomes were better for total and inattentive ADHD symptoms on both the ADHD Rating Scales and SNAP-IV parent and teacher scales. Results were not attributable to discontinuation because of adverse effects or failure to find an effective medication dose.

CONCLUSIONS:

Brief physician training alone did not lead to reductions in ADHD symptoms, but adherence to a protocol that involved titration until the child's symptoms were in the average range and had shown a reliable change led to better symptom reduction. Computer-assisted medication management can contribute to better treatment outcomes in primary care medication treatment of ADHD.
Breastfeeding and Reduced Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Hauck Fern R. , Thompson John M. D. , Tanabe Kawai O. , Moon Rachel Y. , Vennemann Mechtild M.
Published: June 2011

CONTEXT:

Benefits of breastfeeding include lower risk of postneonatal mortality. However, it is unclear whether breastfeeding specifically lowers sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) risk, because study results have been conflicting.

OBJECTIVE:

To perform a meta-analysis to measure the association between breastfeeding and SIDS.

METHODS:

We identified 288 studies with data on breastfeeding and SIDS through a Medline search (1966–2009), review articles, and meta-analyses. Twenty-four original case-control studies were identified that provided data on the relationship between breastfeeding and SIDS risk. Two teams of 2 reviewers evaluated study quality according to preset criteria; 6 studies were excluded, which resulted in 18 studies for analysis. Univariable and multivariable odds ratios were extracted. A summary odds ratio (SOR) was calculated for the odds ratios by using the fixed-effect and random-effect inverse-variance methods of meta-analysis. The Breslow-Day test for heterogeneity was performed.

RESULTS:

For infants who received any amount of breast milk for any duration, the univariable SOR was 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35–0.44), and the multivariable SOR was 0.55 (95% CI: 0.44–0.69). For any breastfeeding at 2 months of age or older, the univariable SOR was 0.38 (95% CI: 0.27–0.54). The univariable SOR for exclusive breastfeeding of any duration was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.24–0.31).

CONCLUSIONS:

Breastfeeding is protective against SIDS, and this effect is stronger when breastfeeding is exclusive. The recommendation to breastfeed infants should be included with other SIDS risk-reduction messages to both reduce the risk of SIDS and promote breastfeeding for its many other infant and maternal health benefits.
Maternal Depressive Symptoms and Child Care During Toddlerhood Relate to Child Behavior at Age 5 Years
Authors: Giles Lynne C. , Davies Michael J. , Whitrow Melissa J. , Warin Megan J. , Moore Vivienne
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND:

Disentangling the effects of maternal depression in toddlerhood from concurrent maternal depression on child behavior is difficult from previous research. Child care may modify any effects of maternal depression on subsequent child behavior, but this has not been widely investigated.

METHODS:

We examined the influence of maternal depressive symptoms during toddlerhood on children's behavior at the age of 5 years and investigated if formal or informal child care during toddlerhood modified any relationship observed.

RESULTS:

Data were available from 438 mothers and their children (227 girls and 211 boys); the mothers who completed questionnaires during the children's infancy, in toddlerhood, and at the age of 5 years. Recurrent maternal depressive symptoms in toddlerhood (when study children were aged 2 and 3½ years) was a significant risk factor for internalizing, externalizing, and total behavior problems when children were aged 5 years. Intermittent maternal depressive symptoms (study child age 2 or 3½ years) did not significantly affect child behavior problems. Formal child care at the age of 2 years modified the effect of recurrent maternal depressive symptoms on total behavior problems at age 5 years. Informal child care in toddlerhood did not significantly affect child behavior problems.

CONCLUSIONS:

Recurrent, but not intermittent, maternal depressive symptoms when children were toddlers were associated with child behavior problems at age 5 years. As little as half a day in formal child care at the age of 2 years significantly modified the effect of recurrent maternal depressive symptoms on total behavior problems. Formal child care for toddlers of depressed mothers may have positive benefits for the child's subsequent behavior.
Impact of Implementing 5 Potentially Better Respiratory Practices on Neonatal Outcomes and Costs
Authors: Levesque Bernadette M. , Kalish Leslie A. , LaPierre Justine , Welch Maureen , Porter Virginia
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

We implemented 5 potentially better practices to limit mechanical ventilation (MV), supplemental oxygen, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in newborn infants born before 33 weeks' gestation.

METHODS:

The methods used in this study included (1) exclusive use of bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP), (2) provision of bCPAP in the delivery room, (3) strict intubation criteria, (4) strict extubation criteria, and (5) prolonged CPAP to avoid supplemental oxygen. We excluded outborn infants and those with major anomalies and obstetric complications from analysis.

RESULTS:

Demographics were similar in 61 infants born before and 60 born after implementation. For infants born at 26 to 3267 weeks' gestation, intubation (first 72 hours) decreased from 52% to 11% (P < .0001) and surfactant use decreased from 48% to 14% (P = .0001). In all infants, the mean ± SD fraction of inspired oxygen requirement (first 24 hours) decreased from 0.27 ± 0.08 to 0.24 ± 0.05 (P = .0005), days of oxygen decreased from 23.5 ± 44.5 to 9.3 ± 22.0 (P = .04), and days of MV decreased from 8.8 ± 27.8 to 2.2 ± 6.2 (P = .005). Hypotension decreased from 33% to 15% (P = .03). The percentage of infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia was 17% before and 8% after (P = .27). Nurse staffing ratios remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS:

Implementation of these potentially better practices reduced the need for MV, surfactant, and supplemental oxygen as well as reduced hypotension among infants born before 33 weeks' gestation without adverse consequences. The costs for equipment and surfactant were lower.
Siblings With Mitochondrial Acetoacetyl-CoA Thiolase Deficiency Not Identified by Newborn Screening
Authors: Sarafoglou Kyriakie , Matern Dietrich , Redlinger-Grosse Krista , Bentler Kristi , Gaviglio Amy , Harding Cary O. , Rinaldo Piero
Published: June 2011

Screened for by all state newborn screening (NBS) programs in the United States, mitochondrial acetoacetyl-coenzyme A thiolase (T2), or β-ketothiolase, deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that causes ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia. Outcomes vary from normal development to severe cognitive impairment or even death after an acute episode of ketoacidosis. The classical biochemical profile of T2 deficiency is a result of null mutations in both alleles of the ACAT1 gene and consists of persistently increased urinary excretion of ketones, characteristic organic acids, and tiglylglycine as well as abnormal blood or plasma acylcarnitine profiles in acute and stable conditions. Early diagnosis and aggressive management can prevent further episodes of ketoacidosis and lead to normal development. We report the cases of 3 children, all subsequently found to have mutations predicted to be associated with no residual T2 enzymatic activity, but only 1 was identified by NBS in Minnesota since 2001. To our knowledge, this is the first description of compound heterozygotes for null mutations associated with no enzymatic activity exhibiting normal urinary organic acid, blood, and plasma acylcarnitine profiles when clinically well, thereby explaining the false-negative NBS results. We suggest that T2 deficiency may be underrecognized, because the incidence of T2 deficiency in Minnesota, on the basis of these 3 cases, is 1 in 232 000, higher than the reported <1 in 1 million incidence. Our cases emphasize that T2 deficiency must be considered in patients who present with ketoacidosis disproportionately severe to the triggering illness despite normal NBS results or nonspecific biochemical findings in blood and urine during asymptomatic periods.
Inflow Control Devices Minimize Annular Velocity in Gas Wells with Stand-Alone Screen Completions
Authors: Regulacion Rhandy , Shahreyar Noman
Published: June 2011

Many gas wells in unconsolidated sandstone reservoirs have been completed with stand-alone screens (SAS) that use either wire-wrapped screens (WWS) or mesh screens. This method is a cost-effective sand-control method for completions, especially in horizontal (Hz) wells where gravel packing (GP) may not be attractive for economic, operational, or logistical reasons. Because there are annular-flow failure concerns with this type of completion, a simple well-modeling study was conducted to look at the potential for application of inflow control devices (ICDs) to minimize annular velocity in Hz gas wells. This paper will discuss the annular flow results.

The purpose of the study was to investigate methods that could mitigate ‘hot spotting,’ a type of screen failure that can occur in an SAS completion, especially in high-rate gas wells. This type of failure occurs when fluid flow carrying abrasive particles is concentrated over a small area such that the entrance velocity is above the threshold for erosion. Swellable packers have been used to compartmentalize the SAS completion into many segments in an attempt to control annular movement of abrasive particles by minimizing annular velocity. However, the well modeling study discussed in this paper has shown that compartmentalization alone may not be sufficient.

This paper discusses the nodal-analysis software modeling tool that was used to build the well hydraulic models and to investigate the following flow behaviors: Annular velocityEffect of compartmentalization on annular velocityAnnular velocity in SAS-ICD completionEffect of compartmentalization on annular velocity in SAS-ICD completionEffect of ICD resistance on annular velocity

The study will show that 1) an SAS-ICD completion can be effective in minimizing annular flow, and 2), it appears to be the most effective means of minimizing annular flow in gas wells, ultimately reducing the chance of failure.
Scientific Evidences Supporting the Benefits of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: History of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Hernandez Madrid Antonio , Matia Frances Roberto , Moro Concepcion
Published: June 2011

The idea of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), most likely came out of a variety of animal studies performed in the late 1980s and early 1990s. From 1995 - 1997 there were many observational studies that confirmed the initial value of cardiac resynchronization. From 1998 - 1999 we had available randomized studies, placebo controlled, to determine exercise capacity, NYHA, quality of life, and from 2000 we had randomized studies to determine hospitalizations and mortality.

All randomized trials have confirmed a significant alleviation of symptoms and increase in exercise capacity: mean NYHA class decreased by 0.5-0.8 points, distance in 6 min walk test increased by a mean of 20% and peak oxygen consumption during exercise increased by 10-15%. Later, a meta analysis in 2003 found a 30% reduction of hospitalizations for the management of congestive heart failure (CHF), attributable to CRT. Lately, the study COMPANION: CRT with/out implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) lowered the combined end point of mortality and re-hospitalization by 35-40% and in the CARE-HF, CRT lowered the proportion of hospitalization for CHF by 52% and unplanned hospitalizations for major cardiovascular events by 39%. CRT reverses left ventricular (LV) remodelling, decreases LV end systolic and end diastolic volumes (By 15%), and increases LV ejection fraction (EF) (By 6%). The REVERSE study has confirmed this aspect. It is often said that about onethird of patients who appear to warrant CRT will not benefit from the therapy. The definition of failure to respond, however, needs to be considered carefully. The failure to implant an effectively functioning system, a poor lead position or failure of pacing stimuli may explain some non responders. Patients whose condition worsened with CRT might have done much worse without CRT, or worsen due to intercurrent illness. In summary there is a large number of patients studied in randomized clinical trials that demonstrate that CRT improves quality of life, exercise capacity, functional capacity, improves cardiac function and structure and, in addition, CRT reduces the risk of mortality.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Ventricular Dyssynchrony
Authors: Doltra Adelina , Sitges Marta
Published: June 2011

Despite single center studies have suggested that mechanical markers of LV synchrony could predict outcome after CRT, these results have not been reproduced in the multicentric setting and indeed, failure of this markers as predictors of CRT response has been shown. This paradox underscores the limited reproducibility and variability of the currently proposed dyssynchrony analysis techniques. The echocardiographic techniques for the study of dyssynchrony will be discussed in this chapter, pointing out the evidence supporting the use of each method as well as their limitations.
Echocardiographic Evaluation during Follow-Up of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Patients
Authors: Doltra Adelina , Sitges Marta
Published: June 2011

Despite the fact that there is no consensus on the clinical impact of optimizing cardiac resynchronization devices, echocardiography is currently the most used method to optimize the programming of the device in the absence of other well validated methodology. On the other hand, while the role of cardiac imaging in the selection of candidates for cardiac resynchronization therapy remains controversial, it is well established that imaging is essential to establish an objective evidence of response to the therapy. In the present chapter, the role of cardiac imaging in optimizing the programming of CRT devices as well as of the usefulness in the follow-up of patients treated with CRT will be discussed.
Programming and Follow-up of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Devices: Troubleshooting
Authors: Anguera Ignasi , Sabaté Xavier
Published: June 2011

Cardiac resynchronization therapy is a well-recognized treatment option in patients with advanced heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction and dyssynchrony. This mode of therapy improves symptoms, quality of life, and mortality. The devices used are designed to specifically pace the left ventricle, and for this reason they have a number of unique programming issues that will be discussed in the present chapter. The complexity of CRT devices and the need for careful management of severe heart failure patients emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary team. The efficacy of CRT is based on monitoring the function of the devices by means of assessment of the clinical status of the patient, electrocardiographic follow-up and interrogation of the device. The present chapter offers an in-depth review of the different electrocardiographic patterns than can be obtained in CRT patients.
Comparison of Control Strategies for DSTATCOM in Power Distribution System
Authors: Uyyuru Koteswara Rao , Mishra Mahesh Kumar
Published: June 2011

In this paper, the perfect harmonic cancellation (PHC), unity power factor (UPF) control strategies of distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) are compared along with a newly proposed control strategy. In the proposed strategy, to get the best power factor, the conductance factors for the compensated load are evaluated for a specified source current total harmonic distortion (THD) limit. The performance of this method along with perfect harmonic cancellation (PHC) and unity power factor (UPF) strategies is evaluated on a distribution system model developed using PSCAD 4.2.1. In the distribution system, harmonic resonance is one of the prime factors for the harmonic propagation. Hence, in damping the harmonic resonance, selection of an appropriate control strategy for the DSTATCOM is crucial and this is verified with a detailed study. The simulation results are presented to show the performance of these strategies in load compensation and damping the harmonic propagation in the distribution system.
Extraction and Partial Characterisation of Hydrocolloid Gums from Some African Legumes
Authors: Saidou Clément , Tchatchueng Jean Bosco , Ndjouenkeu Robert , Roux Denis CD
Published: June 2011

In an attempt to understand the potential valorisation of local African legumes, hydrocolloids of five legumes (Corchorus olithorus, Triumfetta cordifolia, Cerathoteca sesamoides, Adansona digitata, and Bridelia thermifolia) were extracted and characterised as polysaccharides. All the gum extracted were rich in galactose residue (31-62 percent), suggesting a galactan backbone for the polysaccharides structure. The other sugar residues of the polysaccharides were arabinose (22-30 percent) in T. cordifolia and B. thermifolia, glucose (22-36 percent) in B. thermofolia, A. digitata and C. olithorus, and mannose (32.9 percent) in C. sesamoides. The intrinsic viscosity measurements showed that gums from T. cordifolia, B. thermifolia, C sesamoides and C. olithorus are high molecular weight polymers, while A. digitata contains low molecular weight polymers. The gum extracts also showed oil/water emulsion activity and were able to keep 60-90 percent of the emulsion stable on heating.
Uranium and radium in water samples around the Nikola Tesla B lignite-fired power plant - Obrenovac, Serbia
Authors: Zunic Zora , Mietelski Jerzy , Radanovic Sanja , Kierepko Renata , Ciotoli Giancarlo , Celikovic Igor , Ujic Predrag , Kisic Dragica , Bartyzel Miroslaw , Bogacz Joanna , Udovicic Vladimir , Simovic Rodoljub
Published: June 2011

This paper deals with the analysis of natural radionuclide content in 23
water samples collected in the vicinity of the Nikola Tesla B thermal power
plant, Serbia. All samples were analyzed for 226Ra and uranium isotopes
(238U, 234U) activity using radiochemical methods and alpha spectrometry.
Obtained results show that the activity concentrations for uranium and radium
in the water around the thermal power plant are low when compared to those
from areas across Serbia with their enhanced natural uranium and radium
content. No important radiological hazard related to uranium and radium
activity stored in heap was found.
Annealing of radiation-induced defects in burn-in stressed power VDMOSFETs
Authors: Djoric-Veljkovic Snezana , Manic Ivica , Davidovic Vojkan , Dankovic Danijel , Golubovic Snezana , Stojadinovic Ninoslav
Published: June 2011

The annealing of radiation-induced defects in burn-in stressed n-channel
power VDMOSFETs with thick gate oxides (100 and 120 nm) is analysed. In
comparison with the previous spontaneous recovery, the changes of device
electrical parameters observed during annealing are highlighted by the
elevated temperature and voltage applied to the gate, and are more pronounced
in devices with a 120 nm thick gate oxide. The threshold voltage of VDMOSFETs
with a 100 nm thick gate oxide during annealing has an initially slow growth,
but then increases rapidly and reaches the value higher than the
pre-irradiation one (rebound effect). In the case of devices with a 120 nm
thick gate oxide, the threshold voltage behaviour also consists of a slight
initial increase followed by a rapid, but dilatory increase, with an obvious
tendency to achieve the rebound. The changes of channel carrier mobility
during annealing are similar in all samples: at first, it slowly and then
rapidly declines, and after reaching the minimum it begins to increase. In
the case of VDMOSFETs with a thicker gate oxide, these changes are much
slower. The underlying changes in the densities of gate oxide-trapped charge
and interface traps are also delayed in devices with a thicker gate oxide.
All these phenomena occur with certain delay in burn-in stressed devices
compared to unstressed ones. The leading role in the mechanisms responsible
for the observed phenomena is attributed to hydrogen related species.
122Sb - a potential radiotracer: Evaluation of cyclotron production via novel routes
Authors: Enferadi Milad , Sadeghi Mahdi
Published: June 2011

Antimony-122, having a half-life of 2.723 d and I?-=97.59%, is an important
radiotracer in studies of environmental contamination and food crops. For
the work discussed in this paper, the production of 122Sb was done via the
natSn(p, xn)122Sb nuclear reaction. Radiochemical separation was performed
by silica gel column chromatography and liquid-liquid extraction methods.
Excitation functions for the 122Sb radionuclide, via 122Sn(p, n)122Sb,
natSn(p, xn)122Sb, 122Sn(d, 2n)122Sb, natSn(d, xn)122Sb, 124Sn(p, 3n)122Sb
and 124Sn(d, 4n)122Sb reactions, were calculated by ALICE/91, ALICE/ASH, and
TALYS-1.2 codes and compared with existing data.
Level studies of 93Mo via 93Nb(p, nγ)93Mo reaction and density of discrete levels in 93Mo
Authors: Razavi Rohallah , Kakavand Tayeb
Published: June 2011

The excited states of 93Mo have been investigated via the 93Nb(P,n?)93Mo
reaction with proton beam energies of 2.5-4.3 MeV. The parameters of the
nuclear level density formula were determined from the extensive and complete
level scheme of 93Mo. The Bethe formula for the back-shifted Fermi gas model
and the constant temperature model are compared with experimental level
densities.
Decommissioning of the Salaspils Research Reactor
Authors: Abramenkovs Andris
Published: June 2011

In May 1995, the Latvian government decided to shut down the Salaspils
Research Reactor and to dispense with nuclear energy in the future. The
reactor has been out of operation since July 1998. A conceptual study on the
decommissioning of the Salaspils Research Reactor was drawn up by
Noell-KRC-Energie- und Umwelttechnik GmbH in 1998-1999. On October 26th,
1999, the Latvian government decided to start the direct dismantling to
?green-field? in 2001. The upgrading of the decommissioning and dismantling
plan was carried out from 2003-2004, resulting in a change of the primary
goal of decommissioning. Collecting and conditioning of ?historical?
radioactive wastes from different storages outside and inside the reactor
hall became the primary goal. All radioactive materials (more than 96 tons)
were conditioned for disposal in concrete containers at the radioactive
wastes depository ?Radons? at the Baldone site. Protective and radiation
measurement equipment of the personnel was upgraded significantly. All
non-radioactive equipment and materials outside the reactor buildings were
released for clearance and dismantled for reuse or conventional disposal.
Contaminated materials from the reactor hall were collected and removed for
clearance measurements on a weekly basis.
Good practices in decommissioning planning and pre-decommissioning activities for the Magurele VVR-S nuclear research reactor
Authors: Dragusin Mitica , Pavelescu Octavian , Iorga Ioan
Published: June 2011

The VVR-S Nuclear Research Reactor at the ?Horia Hulubei? National Institute
of Physics and Nuclear Engineering in Magurele, Bucharest, will be
decommissioned applying the immediate dismantling strategy. The
implementation of the decommissioning project started in 2010 and is planned
for completion within 11 years. Good practices in decommissioning planning,
organization, funding, and logistics are described in this paper.
Initial decommissioning planning for the Budapest research reactor
Authors: Toth Gabor
Published: June 2011

The Budapest Research Reactor is the first nuclear research facility in
Hungary. The reactor is to remain in operation for at least another 13 years.
At the same time, the development of a decommissioning plan is a mandatory
requirement under national legislation. The present paper describes the
current status of decommissioning planning which is aimed at a timely
preparation for the forthcoming decommissioning of the reactor.
Reliability of computerized cephalometric outcome predictions of mandibular set-back surgery
Authors: Stefanovic Neda , Glisic Branislav , Scepan Ivana
Published: June 2011

Introduction. A successful treatment outcome in dentofacial deformity
patients commonly requires combined orthodontic-surgical therapy. This
enables us to overcome functional, aesthetic and psychological problems.
Since most patients state aesthetics as the primary motive for seeking
therapy, cephalometric predictions of treatment outcome have become the
essential part of treatment planning, especially in combined
orthodontic-surgical cases. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate
the validity and reliability of computerized orthognathic surgery outcome
predictions generated using the Nemotec Dental Studio NX 2005 software.
Methods. The sample of the study consisted of 31 patients diagnosed with
mandibular prognathism who were surgically treated at the Hospital for
Maxillofacial Surgery in Belgrade. Investigation was done on lateral
cephalograms made before and after surgical treatment. Cephalograms were
digitized and analyzed using computer software. According to measurements
made on superimposed pre- and postsurgical cephalograms, the patients were
retreated within the software and the predictions were assessed by measuring
seven angular and three linear parameters. Prediction measurements were then
compared with the actual outcome. Results. Results showed statistically
significant changes between posttreatment and predicted values for parameters
referring to lower lip and mentolabial sulcus position. Conclusion.
Computerized cephalometric predictions for hard-tissue structures in the
sagittal and vertical planes, as well as the VTO parameters, generated using
the Nemotec Dental Studio NX 2005 software are reliable, while lower lip and
mentolabial sulcus position predictions are not reliable enough.
Asthma and chronic bronchitis symptoms among adult population of Belgrade
Authors: Milenkovic Branislava , Mitic-Milikic Marija , Rebic Predrag , Vukcevic Miodrag , Dudvarski-Ilic Aleksandra , Nagorni-Obradovic Ljudmila , Lazic Zorica , Bosnjak-Petrovic Vesna
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Over the last three decades the prevalence of respiratory
diseases has been increasing worldwide thus increasing economic burden on the
healthcare system. Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of asthma in
West European countries ranges from 6-9%, while of chronic obstructive
pulmonary diseases (COPD) is 8.0% worlwide. Objective. The aim of the study
was to estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and smoking habits,
and to assess the prevalence of asthma and chronic bronchitis among adults in
Belgrade, Serbia. Methods. To collect data we used a questionnaire based on
the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) protocol, which was
mailed to 10,208 randomly selected subjects. Results. There were 58.3% of
responders to our questionnaire. We noted a higher prevalence of respiratory
symptoms in subjects who responded promptly. The majority of the respondents
were current or former smokers (37.5% and 17.5% respectively) and 79.9% of
them reported respiratory symptoms. The most frequent symptoms were
longstanding cough (32.2%), sputum production (30.4%) and wheezing (30.3%).
Asthma attacks were reported in 4.4% of cases and 5.6% of subjects were using
asthma medications. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased with
age. Women reported coughing, attacks of breathlessness and coughing, chest
tightness by night, allergic rhinitis and chronic coughing, more frequently
than men. Productive cough was more frequent in men. The prevalence of almost
all symptoms was higher in smokers compared to nonsmokers. Conclusion. In
Serbia there is a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms, asthma and chronic
bronchitis smoking addiction.
The influence of sepsis as a complication after trauma on immune response to injury
Authors: Surbatovic Maja , Mirkovic Darko , Radakovic Sonja , Jevtic Miodrag , Filipovic Nikola
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Mortality rate in trauma complicated with sepsis is exceeding
50%. Outcome is not determined only by infection or trauma, but also by the
intensity of immuno-inflammatory response. Objective. The aim of this study
was to determine the influence of sepsis on the immuno-inflammatory response,
in the group of 35 traumatized men, of which in 25 cases trauma was
complicated with sepsis. Methods. Cytokines were measured by ELISA test in
plasma. Blood samples were drown on the first, third and fifth day after ICU
admission. Results. Proinflammatory cytokine IL-8 was 230-fold higher in
trauma + sepsis group (1148.48 vs. 5.05 pg/ml; p<0.01), and anti-
inflammatory cytokine IL-1ra was 4-fold higher (1138.3 vs. 310.05 pg/ml;
p<0.01), whereas IL-12 and IL-4 showed no significant difference between the
groups. Conclusion. We concluded that sepsis, as a complication after trauma,
drastically enhances immuno-inflammatory response to insult, as indicated by
IL-8 and IL-1ra, but not IL-12 and IL-4.
Risk factors for syphilis infection in the South Backa blood donor population
Authors: Bogdanovic Sanja , Bujandric Nevenka , Jovanovic Radmila
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Syphilis is one of infectious diseases that can be transmitted
by blood transfusion. Determining the frequency of syphilis among blood
donors and the relevant risk factors is an important aspect of safe blood
transfusion. Objective. To determine the frequency and the trend of syphilis
infection among blood donors in South Backa Region, to classify the confirmed
infection and to describe demographic characteristics of seropositive blood
donors and their risk factors. Methods. This retrospective study analyzed
results of routine EIA syphilis screening and blood donor data from South
Backa Region between 2004 and 2008. Results. Thirteen out of 153,431 tested
blood units were confirmed as syphilis-infected. The study found that the
overall frequency of infection was 8.47 per 100,000 blood donations, with a
trend increase of 2.4%; there was a statistically significant (p<0.001)
higher frequency among first-time blood donors (51.93/100,000) than regular
ones (2.84/100 000). The highest prevalence was noted in donors aged over 45
years. All cases were classified as past syphilis infections. Post-donation
interviews revealed exposure risk in 69.23% of the donors. Conclusion. A
higher frequency of past infections detected in older donors is probably due
to a higher prevalence and incidence of syphilis in the past. Further
continual epidemiologic follow-up of syphilis in blood donors is crucial in
obtaining safe blood.
Factors associated with health-related quality of life among university students
Authors: Klemenc-Ketis Zalika , Kersnik Janko , Eder Ksenija , Colaric Dusan
Published: June 2011

Introduction. University students are subjected to different kinds of
stressors, i.e. academic pressures, social issues and financial problems.
This can affect their academic achievements and quality of life. Objective.
The aim of this study was to determine the health-related quality of life of
university students, and how it is affected by the presence of chronic
diseases, mental disorders comorbidity, and patterns of medical services?
use. Methods. This web-based study included a sample of 1,410 Slovenian
university students. We used a self-administered questionnaire, containing a
sheet with demographic data, Zung?s self-assessment inventories about anxiety
and depression, and EQ-5D questionnaire. The main outcome measures were
scores on EQ-5D part and VAS part of the EQ-5D questionnaire. Results.
Independent factors associated with the health-related quality of life of
university students, were the presence of chronic pain, the presence of
depression and anxiety, need for urgent medical help and at least one visit
to a clinical specialist in the past year. The independent factors associated
with the health status of university students were the presence of chronic
diseases, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, a visit to a clinical
specialist, a need for urgent medical help and a visit to an emergency unit
in the past year. Conclusion. Health-related quality of life of university
students can be seriously affected by the presence of mental disorders and
chronic pain. Appropriate health-related measures should be adopted to
achieve early recognition of worse health-related quality of life, the
presence of mental disorders and other chronic conditions, and to enable
their effective treatment.
The role of psychic factors in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma
Authors: Vucevic Danijela , Radosavljevic Tatjana , Mladenovic Dusan , Todorovic Vera
Published: June 2011

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways in which
many cells play a role, in particular mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils,
T-lymphocytes and epithelial cells. In susceptible individuals this
inflammation causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest
tightness and cough, particularly at night and/or in the early morning. These
symptoms are usually associated with variable and extensive limitations of
airflow in the bronchi reversible spontaneously or by treatment. It has been
shown that restrain of the effectors of stress response participate in the
pathogenesis of bronchial asthma. Anger that is not expressed and
frustrations may activate the limbic stress pathway. Thus, the released
neurotransmitters followed by excitation thus causing psychogenic (mental or
emotional) stress. It is also known that emotional stress may be responsible
for the exacerbation of asthma. Namely, pronounced emotions cause
hyperventilation and hypocapnia inducing bronchospasm. Certain psychological
personality features are related to adaptive or inadequate body response to
numerous life events. Thus, until the beginning of the last century,
bronchial asthma was referred to as asthma nervosa, because clinicians
clearly observed the psychological profile of patients with predominant fear
of asphyxia and recurrent attacks of paroxysmal dyspnoea. Besides, increased
sensitivity, repression of aggressive feelings and expressive empathy have
been identified as the most frequent psychological characteristics of
asthmatic patients. However, scientists are still far from a full
understanding of bronchial asthma pathogenesis. The contribution of psychic
factors has become meaningful in the understanding of the development of
bronchial asthma. Having in mind that in the majority of patients asthma is a
lifelong condition, there is a hope that further investigations of bronchial
asthma psychogenesis will improve prevention and treatment of this disease.
Progression of nodal marginal zone lymphoma into diffuse large B cell lymphoma in a patient with Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Colovic Natasa , Terzic Tatjana , Radojkovic Milica , Palibrk Vuk , Vidovic Ana
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Sj?gren?s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder carrying
the risk of the development of non-Hodgkin?s lymphoma, most frequently
marginal zone lymphoma. Case Outline. A 66-year-old male patient with
Sj?gren?s syndrome, after a year of the disease, developed a nodal marginal
zone lymphoma with lymphoma cells in peripheral blood which had the following
immunophenotype: CD19, CD20, CD22, CD19/kappa, CD79b+. After six cycles of
chemotherapy according to CHOP protocol (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin,
vincristine and prednisone) disease remission was achieved lasting four
months, followed by enlargement of lymph nodes in all areas (generalized
lymphadenopathy), splenomegaly and enlargement of the right parotid gland.
Bone marrow biopsy and histology confirmed lymphoma of the same morphologic
and immunohistochemic profile. Biopsy of a very enlarged hard right parotid
gland, by using histology and immunohistochemistry, showed lymphoid tumour
tissue with blast appearance and a number of nucleoli corresponding to
centroblasts and less to immunoblasts. Immunophenotypes of these cells were
as follows: CD79alfa+, CD20+, CD3-, bcl-2-; proliferative activity measured
with KI-67 was high rating 60%. Histology and immunohistochemistry showed the
co-existence of a diffuse large B cell lymphoma with marginal zone lymphoma.
In spite of aggressive chemotherapy treatment according to protocol ESHAP
(Vepesid 200 mg i.v. on 1st and 2nd day and 100 mg on 3rd, 4th and 5th day;
Cisplatin 20-20-10 mg on 1st to 4th day) the disease showed a progressive
course. Conclusion. In patients with Sj?gren?s syndrome, the possibility of
lymphoma should be kept in mind and in suspected cases timely diagnostic and
therapeutic measures should be undertaken.
Multifoetal pregnancies complicated by reversed arterial perfusion: Report of four cases
Authors: Mikovic Zeljko , Karadzov-Orlic Natasa , Marinkovic Maja , Djuricic Slavisa , Egic Amira , Pazin Vladimir , Popovac Mirjana , Smolovic Dijana
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Twin reversed arterial perfusion syndrome (TRAP) or acardiac
anomaly presents a rare and severe complication affecting monochorionic
multiple pregnancies occurring in 1 per 35,000 pregnancies or 1 per 100 of
monozygotic twins. We report four cases of multiple pregnancies with TRAP
diagnosed over the last 2 years, which were under check-up and treatment
during the entire pregnancy course finalized by delivery. Outline of Cases.
In two cases pregnancies were trigeminal, and other two geminal, with acardia
of one foetus, by anceps type in three and acephalus in one. Expectant
management was initially done in all cases. The relation of acardiac and
donor abdominal circumference was below 50% and negative signs of the donor?s
cardiac failure were detected in two cases, so that expectative management
was continued until delivery. Due to obstetric indications, a cesarean
section was performed on the 33rd and 34th gestational week, and healthy
newborns were delivered. Another two acardiac twins had abdominal
circumference ratio between the acardiac fetus and the donor of over 50%, and
signs of congestive heart failure in the donor, which indicated invasive
therapeutic procedure with absolute alcohol chemisclerosis; it was done by
alcohol injection into the acardiac abdominal aorta which interrupted the
retrograde blood-flow into the acardiac umbilicus. In the first case a
successful intervention was performed at 29th gestational week, but after 12
hours distress signs were registered. The delivery was finalized by a
cesarean section, and a live donor was delivered. In the second case the
intervention was successfully done at the 20th gestational week, and after 96
hours from the intervention lethal ending of the donor was registered.
Conclusion. Bearing in mind that the occurrence of TRAP is rare, it is
necessary to sum-up experiences from a larger number of centres to determine
efficient therapeutic procedure.
Reflecting on Illyrian helmets
Authors: Vasic Rastko
Published: June 2011

The so-called Illyrian helmets, with a rectangular opening for the face, are
a frequent topic in archaeological literature for several reasons. They are
distributed over a large territory - on the Balkan Peninsula and beyond, so
many archaeologists from various countries were involved in their study. Then
there is the great diversity of forms, where each type or subtype represents
a theme in itself posing various questions, and finally new Illyrian helmets
appear all the time, even in regions far from their main concentration areas,
or with unfamiliar details, demanding new analyses and explanations. The
author discusses their division into types and subtypes, chronology,
variants, and comes to the conclusion that a proper study of this theme will
be possible only when various aspects of their appearance, including ancient
written sources as well as the material culture of this period in particular
regions, are taken into consideration because of their complex and versatile
role in ancient Balkan history.