bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Técnica de fistulação e canulação do rúmen em bovinos e ovinos
Authors: Muzzi Leonardo Augusto Lopes , Muzzi Ruthnéa Aparecida Lázaro , Gabellini Endrigo Leonel Alves
Published: March 2010

Foi desenvolvida e descrita uma técnica cirúrgica para fistulação e canulação do rúmen em animais utilizados nos estudos de nutrição animal. O método cirúrgico foi empregado para canulação de 25 vacas e oito cordeiros. A fistulação permanente foi realizada no centro da fossa paralombar esquerda em estágio operatório único. Uma cânula de borracha foi implantada na parede ruminal após o afastamento da musculatura da parede abdominal e a sutura do rúmen ao peritôneo e à pele. Não foram observadas complicações graves advindas da canulação ruminal, mas houve a ocorrência de discreto vazamento de conteúdo em alguns animais. As cânulas permaneceram funcionais por longo período e permitiram a obtenção de quantidades suficientes de amostra.
Choice of sterilizing/disinfecting agent: determination of the Decimal ReductionTime (D-Value)
Authors: Mazzola Priscila Gava , Jozala Angela Faustino , Novaes Letícia Célia de Lencastre , Moriel Patricia , Penna Thereza Christina Vessoni
Published: March 2010

Efforts to diminish the transmission of infections include programs in which disinfectants play a crucial role. Hospital surfaces and medical devices are potential sources of cross contamination, and each instrument, surface or area in a health care unit can be responsible for spread of infection. The decimal reduction time was used to study and compare the behavior of selected strains of microorganisms. The highest D-values for various bacteria were obtained for the following solutions: (i) 0.1% sodium dichloroisocyanurate (pH 7.0) - E. coli and A. calcoaceticus (D = 5.9 min); (ii) sodium hypochlorite (pH 7.0) at 0.025% for B. stearothermophilus (D = 24 min), E. coli and E. cloacae (D = 7.5 min); at 0.05% for B. stearothermophilus (D = 9.4 min) and E. coli (D = 6.1 min). The suspension studies were an indication of the disinfectant efficacy on a surface. The data in this study reflect the formulations used and may vary from product to product. The expected effectiveness from the studied formulations shows that the tested agents can be recommended for surface disinfection as stated in present guidelines and emphasize the importance and need to develop routine and novel programs to evaluate product utility.
The period between beta-blocker use and physical activity changes training heart rate behavior
Authors: Alves Naiane Ferraz Bandeira , Porpino Suênia Karla Pacheco , Silva Alexandre Sérgio
Published: March 2010

The Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC) proposes that hypertensive subjects who use beta-blockers and practice physical exercises must have their training heart rate (HR) corrected due to the negative chronotropic effect of this drug. Nevertheless, if the physical activity is performed outside of plasmatic half-life, correction may not be necessary. This study investigated the exercise chronotropic response both inside and outside the beta-blocker plasmatic half-life. Nine subjects in use of atenolol or propranolol, and six controls, carried out three walking sessions in three days according to different schedules: EX2 (two hours after drug administration, at the plasmatic peak); EX11 (eleven hours after drug administration, at the end of plasmatic half-life); and EX23 (twenty-three hours after drug administration, outside the plasmatic half-life. The walking sessions were performed on an ergometric treadmill and HR was monitored by a heart rate monitor. During the exercises, mean HRs were 97.2, 108.4 and 109 for EX2, EX11 and EX23, respectively, with the value for EX2 statistically lower than the others (p<0.05). There were no statistical differences in the control group (p>0.05). The study concludes that the attenuation of the positive chronotropic response which occurs during exercise in subjects using beta-blockers, is less evident when the exercise is performed outside the plasmatic half-life of the drug.
Analysis of pharmaceutical assistance in the Taquari Valley, Rio Grande do Sul: profile of service users and access to medication
Authors: Kauffmann Carla , Fernandes Luciana Carvalho , Deitos Alícia , Laste Gabriela , Heberlé Graziela , Castro Luís César de , Torres Iraci Lucena da Silva
Published: March 2010

Pharmaceutical assistance concerns actions developed by the pharmacist and other professionals with the purpose of promoting, protecting and restoring health. Medications are an essential tool in this process that focuses on the access to, and the rational use of, drugs. This study is aimed at evaluating the Pharmaceutical Assistance provided by Municipal Health Offices in the Taquari Valley, Rio Grande do Sul. For this purpose, 2,794 users of public pharmacies were interviewed and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The users of the public pharmacies were mainly female and individuals with low educational level and income. On average, 2.41 drugs were prescribed per medical prescription and 1.72 of these were procured. Out of the total medicines prescribed, 76.5% were listed in the municipal standard drug list (SDL). Medication was prescribed by its generic name in 81.8% of the prescriptions. Antibiotics and injections were prescribed in 11.9% and 4.0% of the prescriptions, respectively. Users' access to information is partial, which can impair adherence to the treatment. Thus, it is possible to conclude that review of the service is necessary for it to be effective.
Early weaning impairs body composition in male mice
Authors: Borges Maria Carolina , Rogero Marcelo Macedo , Pires Ivanir Santana de Oliveira , Borelli Primavera , Tirapegui Julio
Published: March 2010

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of early weaning on body composition and on parameters related to nutritional status in mice. The experimental group consisted of male Swiss Webster mice that were weaned early (at postnatal day fourteen) and fed an appropriate diet for growing rodents until postnatal day twenty-one (EW group). The control group consisted of male mice breastfed until postnatal day twenty-one (CON group). All animals were sacrificed on the twenty-first day of life. The EW group showed a decrease in liver and muscle protein content and concentration, brain protein concentration, brain DNA content and concentration, as well as liver and muscle protein/RNA ratio (p<0.05). Concerning body composition, the EW mice showed increased moisture content, increased moisture and lipid percentage, and a smaller percentage and content of protein and ash in the carcass (p<0.05). These results indicate that early weaning impairs body composition and parameters related to nutritional status, which may be explained by retarded chemical maturation processes. This data may contribute to the overall understanding of the influence of breastfeeding versus feeding with artificial milk on body composition and on nutritional status.
Extended release promethazine HCl using acrylic polymers by freeze-drying and spray-drying techniques: formulation considerations
Authors: Tiwari Ruchi , Srivastava Birendra , Tiwari Gaurav , Rai Awanik
Published: March 2010

The present study investigated a novel extended release system of promethazine hydrochloride (PHC) with acrylic polymers Eudragit RL100 and Eudragit S100 in different weight ratios (1:1 and 1: 5), and in combination (0.5+1.5), using freeze-drying and spray-drying techniques. Solid dispersions were characterized by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as solubility and in vitro dissolution studies in 0.1 N HCl (pH 1.2), double-distilled water and phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Adsorption tests from drug solution to solid polymers were also performed. A selected solid dispersion system was developed into capsule dosage form and evaluated for in vitro dissolution studies. The progressive disappearance of drug peaks in thermotropic profiles of spray-dried dispersions were related to increasing amount of polymers, while SEM studies suggested homogenous dispersion of drug in polymer. Eudragit RL100 had a greater adsorptive capacity than Eudragit S100, and thus its combination in (0.5+1.5) for S100 and RL 100 exhibited a higher dissolution rate with 97.14% drug release for twelve hours. Among different formulations, capsules prepared by combination of acrylic polymers using spray-drying (1:0.5 + 1.5) displayed extended release of drug for twelve hours with 96.87% release followed by zero order kinetics (r²= 0.9986).
Managing Alien Plants for Biodiversity Outcomes—the Need for Triage
Authors: Downey Paul O. , Williams Moira C. , Whiffen Leonie K. , Auld Bruce A. , Hamilton Mark A. , Burley Alana L. , Turner Peter J.
Published: March 2010

Recognition that alien plants pose a significant threat to biodiversity has not always translated into effective management strategies, policy reforms, and systems to establish priorities. Thus, many alien plant management decisions for the protection of biodiversity occur with limited knowledge of what needs to be protected (other than biodiversity in a generalized sense) or the urgency of actions. To rectify this, we have developed a triage system that enables alien plant management decisions to be made based on (1) the urgency of control relative to the degree of threat posed to biodiversity, compared with (2) the likelihood of achieving a successful conservation outcome as a result of alien plant control. This triage system is underpinned by a two-step approach, which identifies the biodiversity at risk and assesses sites to determine priorities for control. This triage system was initially developed to manage the threat posed by bitou bush to native species in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. It has subsequently been improved with the national assessment of lantana in Australia, and the adaptation from a single to multiple alien plant species approach on a regional scale. This triage system identifies nine levels of priority for alien plant management aimed at biodiversity conservation, ranging from immediate, targeted action to limited or no action. The development of this approach has enabled long-term management priorities to be set for widespread alien plants that are unlikely to be eradicated. It also enables control to occur in a coordinated manner for biodiversity conservation at a landscape scale, rather than as a series of individual unconnected short-term actions.
Growth Regulator Herbicides Prevent Invasive Annual Grass Seed Production
Authors: Rinella Matthew J. , Haferkamp Marshall R. , Masters Robert A. , Muscha Jennifer M. , Bellows Susan E. , Vermeire Lance T.
Published: March 2010

Auxinic herbicides, such as 2,4-D and dicamba, that act as plant growth regulators are commonly used for broadleaf weed control in cereal crops (e.g., wheat, barley), grasslands, and noncroplands. If applied at late growth stages, while cereals are developing reproductive parts, the herbicides can reduce seed production. We tested whether growth regulators have this same effect on the invasive annual grass Japanese brome. The herbicides 2,4-D, dicamba, and picloram were applied at typical field use rates to Japanese brome at various growth stages in a greenhouse. Picloram reduced seed production nearly 100% when applied at the internode elongation, boot, or heading stages of growth, whereas dicamba appeared to be slightly less effective and 2,4-D was much less effective. Our results indicate it may be possible to control Japanese brome by using growth regulator herbicides to reduce its seed production, thereby depleting its short-lived seed bank.
Comparative Seed and Dispersal Ecology of Three Exotic SubtropicalAsparagusSpecies
Authors: Vivian-Smith Gabrielle E. , Gosper Carl R.
Published: March 2010

The genusAsparagusincludes at least six invasive species in Australia.Asparagus aethiopicusandA. africanusare invasive in subtropical Australia, and a third species,A. virgatusis naturalized and demonstrates localized spread in south east Queensland. To better understand how the attributes of these species contribute to their invasiveness, we compared fruit and seed traits, germination, seedling emergence, seed survival, and time-to-maturity. We further investigated dispersal ecology ofA. africanus, examining the diet of a local frugivore, the figbird (Sphecotheres viridis) and the effect of gut passage on seedling emergence. Overall,A. aethiopicuswas superior in germination and emergence, with the highest mean germination (98.8%) and emergence (94.5%) under optimal conditions and higher emergence (mean of 73.3%) across all treatments. In contrast,A. africanushad the lowest germination under optimal conditions (71.7%) and low mean seedling emergence (49.5%), but had fruits with the highest relative yield (ratio of dry pulp to fruit fresh weight) that were favored by a local frugivore. Figbirds consumed large numbers ofA. africanusfruits (∼30% of all non-Ficusfruits), and seedling germination was not significantly affected by gut passage compared to unprocessed fruits.Asparagus virgatusgerminated poorly under cool, light conditions (1.4%) despite a high optimum mean (95.0%) and had low mean performance across emergence treatments (36.3%). The species also had fruits with a low pulp return for frugivores. For all species, seed survival declined rapidly in the first 12 mo and fell to < 3.2% viability at 36 mo. On the basis of the traits considered,A. virgatusis unlikely to have the invasive potential of its congeners. Uniformly short seed survival times suggest that weed managers do not have to contend with a substantial persistent soil-stored seed bank, but frugivore-mediated dispersal beyond existing infestations will present a considerable management challenge.
ANFIS-based approach for scour depth prediction at piers in non-uniform sediments
Authors: Muzzammil M. , Ayyub M.
Published: March 2010

An estimation of scour depth is a prerequisite for the efficient foundation design of important hydraulic structures such as bridge piers and abutments. Most of the scour depth prediction formulae available in the literature have been developed based on the analysis of the laboratory/field data using statistical methods such as the regression method (RM). Conventional statistical analysis is generally replaced in many fields of engineering by the alternative approach of artificial neural networks (ANN) and adaptive network-based fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS). These recent techniques have been reported to provide better solutions in cases where the available data is incomplete or ambiguous by nature. An attempt has been made to compare the performance of ANFIS over RM and ANN in modeling the depth of bridge pier scour in non-uniform sediments. It has been found that the ANFIS performed best amongst all these methods.
AUG-Segmenter: a user-friendly tool for segmentation of long time series
Authors: Gedikli Abdullah , Aksoy Hafzullah , Unal N. Erdem
Published: March 2010

In this study, three algorithms are presented for time series segmentation. The first algorithm is based on the branch-and-bound approach, the second on the dynamic programming while the third is a modified version of the latter into which the remaining cost concept of the former is introduced. A user-friendly computer program called AUG-Segmenter is developed. Segmentation-by-constant and segmentation-by-linear-regression can be performed by the program. The program is tested on real-world time series of thousands of terms and found useful in performing segmentation satisfactorily and fast.
Reservoir optimization model incorporating inflow forecasts with various lead times as hydrologic state variables
Authors: Guolei Tang , Huicheng Zhou , Ningning Li
Published: March 2010

This paper presents two Stochastic Dynamic Programming models (SDP) to investigate the potential value of inflow forecasts with various lead times in hydropower generation. The proposed SDP frameworks generate hydropower operating policies for the Ertan hydropower station, China. The objective function maximizes the total hydropower generation with the firm capacity committed for the system. The two proposed SDP-derived operating policies are simulated using historical inflows, as well as inflow forecasts with various lead times. Four performance indicators are chosen to assist in selecting the best reservoir operating policy: mean annual hydropower production, Nash–Sutcliffe sufficiency score, reliability and vulnerability. Performances of the proposed SDP-derived policies are compared with those of other existing policies. The simulation results demonstrate that including inflow forecasts with various lead times is beneficial to the Ertan hydropower generation, and the chosen operating policy cannot only yield higher hydropower production, but also produces reasonable storage hydrographs effectively.
Prediction of weekly nitrate-N fluctuations in a small agricultural watershed in Illinois
Authors: Markus Momcilo , Hejazi Mohamad I. , Bajcsy Peter , Giustolisi Orazio , Savic Dragan A.
Published: March 2010

Agricultural nonpoint source pollution has been identified as one of the leading causes of surface water quality impairment in the United States. Such an impact is important, particularly in predominantly agricultural areas, where application of agricultural fertilizers often results in excessive nitrate levels in streams and rivers. When nitrate concentration in a public water supply reaches or exceeds drinking water standards, costly measures such as well closure or water treatment have to be considered. Thus, having accurate nitrate-N predictions is critical in making correct and timely management decisions. This study applied a set of data mining tools to predict weekly nitrate-N concentrations at a gauging station on the Sangamon River near Decatur, Illinois. The data mining tools used in this study included artificial neural networks, evolutionary polynomial regression and the naive Bayes model. The results were compared using seven forecast measures. In general, all models performed reasonably well, but not all achieved best scores in each of the measures, suggesting that a multi-tool approach is needed. In addition to improving forecast accuracy compared with previous studies, the tools described in this study demonstrated potential for application in error analysis, input selection and ranking of explanatory variables, thereby designing cost-effective monitoring networks.
Determination of trichloramine in drinking water using headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Kosaka K. , Seki K. , Kimura N. , Kobayashi Y. , Asami M.
Published: March 2010

Trichloramine (NCl3) is one of the major causes of the chlorine odor in drinking water. In the present study, a method was developed for analysis of NCl3 concentration in water using headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS–GC/MS). For quantification of NCl3, m/z of 51 was selected because other major m/z of NCl3 were also observed as fragments of trichloromethane (CHCl3) and the peaks of NCl3 and CHCl3 overlapped on the chromatogram. The limit of quantification for NCl3 was set to 15 μg-Cl2/L. The calibration curve of NCl3 was expressed as a quadratic curve because of the partial NCl3 decomposition. NCl3 concentrations in chlorinated ammonium solution were determined by HS–GC/MS and titration using N,N-diethyl-p-phenylenediamine and ferrous ammonium sulfate (DPD/FAS), and the results using the two methods were similar at pH 6 and 7. However, at pH 8, NCl3 was detected using HS–GC/MS, but not using DPD/FAS titration. NCl3 concentrations in nine tap water samples were determined using HS–GC/MS and ranged from < 15 to 46 μg-Cl2/L. The results of the present study indicated that HS–GC/MS is applicable to determination of NCl3 in drinking water.
The effect of the surface-to-volume contact ratio on the biomass production potential of the pipe products in contact with drinking water
Authors: Tsvetanova Z. G. , Hoekstra E. J.
Published: March 2010

The biomass production potential (BPP) test is a semi-static test for assessment of microbial growth promoting properties of construction products in contact with drinking water (CPDW). In 2003 the test was selected for incorporation into a scheme for acceptance of CPDW in the framework of implementation of the European Construction Product Directive and Drinking Water Directive. The pass/fail criterion for the BPP test is based on the sum of microbial growth in water and in biofilm caused by substances released from CPDW. The test is performed at a surface-to-volume contact ratio (S/V) of 0.17 cm−1, that is quite different from the practice in buildings and domestic installations, where the usual ratios are 2.1 cm−1 for 3/4 inches pipe, 1.6 cm−1 for 1 inches pipe or 1.0 cm−1 for 1.5 inches pipe. The goal of the study was to evaluate the importance of S/V ratio for performance of the BPP test and for correct assessment of the growth promoting properties of CPDW. The BPP of 10 pipe products were compared under the S/V ratios of 0.17 cm−1 and 1.7 cm−1. The BPP of most polymer products were higher under the S/V ratio of 1.7 cm−1 in individual trials, but the differences were insignificant. However, the planktonic biomass concentrations were 4–14 fold higher at larger S/V ratio and this can be important from hygienic point of view. For acceptance of CPDW, besides a pass/fail criterion for the BPP, the planktonic biomass concentration could be taken as a second criterion for evaluation.
Degradation of chlorpyriphos in water by advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Murillo R. , Sarasa J. , Lanao M. , Ovelleiro J. L.
Published: March 2010

The degradation of chlorpyriphos by different advanced oxidation processes such as photo-Fenton, TiO2, TiO2/H2O2, O3 and O3/H2O2 was investigated. The photo-Fenton and TiO2 processes were optimized using a solar chamber as light source. The optimum dosages of the photo-Fenton treatment were: [H2O2]=0.01 M; [Fe3 + ]=10 mg l−1; initial pH = 3.5. With these optimum conditions total degradation was observed after 15 minutes of reaction time. The application of sunlight was also efficient as total degradation was achieved after 60 minutes. The optimum dosage using only TiO2 as catalyst was 1,000 mg l−1, obtaining the maximum degradation at 20 minutes of reaction time. On the other hand, the addition of 0.02 M of H2O2 to a lower dosage of TiO2 (10 mg l−1) provides the same degradation. The ozonation treatment achieved complete degradation at 30 minutes of reaction time. On the other hand, it was observed that the degradation was faster by adding H2O2 (H2O2/O3 molar ratio = 0.5). In this case, total degradation was observed after 20 minutes.
Understanding the behaviour of molecular weight fractions of natural organic matter to improve water treatment processes
Authors: Kristiana I. , Allpike B. P. , Joll C. A. , Heitz A. , Trolio R.
Published: March 2010

Water utilities have experienced increasing pressure to minimise the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs), as reflected in the increasingly stringent regulations and guidelines for the concentrations of DBPs in drinking water. Understanding the disinfection characteristics and molecular weight (MW) distribution of natural organic matter (NOM) will assist in the optimisation of drinking water treatment processes to minimise the formation of DBPs. This study investigated the disinfection behaviour of MW fractions of NOM isolated from a Western Australian source water. The NOM was fractionated and separated using preparative size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and the fractions were chlorinated in the presence of bromide ion. The larger MW fractions of NOM were found to produce the highest concentrations of DBPs (trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, haloacetonitriles, haloketones, and haloaldehydes), with the low MW fractions still producing significant amounts of these DBPs. The results also showed a trend of an increasing proportion of brominated DBPs with decreasing MW and aromatic character. Considering that the smaller MW fractions of NOM produce significant amounts of DBPs, with a higher relative contribution from brominated DBPs, water treatment processes need to be optimised for either bromide removal or the removal of aliphatic, small MW fractions of NOM, in order to meet DBP guidelines and regulations.
Water distribution system model calibration under uncertainty environments
Authors: Takahashi S. , Saldarriaga J. G. , Vega M. C. , Hernández F.
Published: March 2010

The calibration process of water distribution system models allows for accurate and reliable hydraulic analysis results. Thus, calibration is of utmost importance if adequate operation and maintenance model-based procedures are sought. However, in emerging economies, there is a series of factors that make it more difficult to construct accurate models, including very poor information management, unusually high leakages and the presence of a large number of illegal connections. While some of the model variables are assumed to be known under normal circumstances, these factors make it necessary to consider them for calibration as well. This paper presents a calibration methodology flexible enough to address such problems allowing the calibration of pipe diameter, roughness and minor losses, and nodal demands and leakages. A genetic algorithm was implemented as well as a constraint programming algorithm that makes direct use of hydraulic criteria to advance in the solution space. The methodology was tested on a real system in Colombia with a satisfactory outcome. The use of these techniques results in major reduction of calculation time and similar or superior results in comparison to manual methods.
Pediatric brain tumors: Diagnostic and treatment
Authors: Nikitovic M.R. , Golubicic I.V. , Borojevic N.D. , Pekmezovic T.D. , Grujicic D.M. , Plesinac-Karapandzic V.S.
Published: March 2010

During the period 1995-2004 we treated 212 patients (pts) with brain tumors. There were 133 boys and 79 girls, aged from 2,5 yrs up to 18 yrs (Me=9,7 yrs). The majority of pts were in age group (4-16) yrs-179 pts. Supratentorial tumors were diagnosed in 118 pts vs. infratentorial 94 pts. Therapy involved surgery, postoperative radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. Survival rates were calculated using Caplan-Meier method and differences between curves with log-rank test. During the follow-up period from 1 to 9 year (Me=3 yrs) 5-year disease free survival rate was 55,7%. 79 pts failed to therapy. There was no statistically significant difference in survival according to sex (p=0,123) and age (p=0,367). Pts with supratentorial tumors had statistically significant better survival (p=0,036). Pts with histologic type lowgrade astrocitomas had statistically significant better survival than malignant gliomas, ependymomas and PNET (p=0,0001). Surgery, postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy in selected cases are efficient therapeutic approach for pediatric brain tumors.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging in brain tumour neurosurgical resection risk assessment
Authors: Sveljo O.B. , Koprivek K.M. , Lucic M.A. , Prvulovic M.B. , Minic Lj. , Kojadinovic Z.
Published: March 2010

To establish the possibilities of functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) in the assesment of preservation of the motor and speech brain functions in the primary brain tumour patients planed for neurosurgery. Methods and material: fMRI of motor and/or speech areas was performed on 3T MRI unit in 17 patients with primary brain tumours and dominant focal epileptic symptomatology. Results: None of the patients demonstrated motor neurologic deficit before the operation, while in one patient a moderate speech disorder was noted. Operative treatment has been performed in 11/17 patients, and in 6/11 patients total tumour resection has been performed. Motor deficit has not been noted in any of the patients. Transitory speech deficit was noted in 3/11 patients, while 1/11 patients demonstrated a permanent but mild speech deficit. Conclusion: fMRI may be of significant help in the assessment of potential postoperative neurological deficit risks, enabling the optimization of neurosurgical resection procedure in the brain tumour patients.
Comparative evaluation of conventional and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of the pituitary microadenomas
Authors: Stosic-Opincal T.L. , Damjanovic D.S. , Dakovic M.Z. , Gavrilov M.S. , Vasic B.D. , Macvanski M.V. , Nikolic I. , Gavrilovic S.S.
Published: March 2010

Objective: This study tried to determine if there is a difference between standard and dynamic MR examination in detection of pituitary microadenoma. Subjects and methods: We have included twenty seven patients with suspicious pituitary tumor. All patients have been hospitalized for endocrinologyc examination between June 2007 and May 2008 in Institute for Endocrinology, diabetes and metabolic diseases of Clinical Center of Serbia. MR examinations have been preformed in MR Center of Clinical Center of Serbia. Results: Twenty seven patients were included in our study. Only in four of them pituitary microadenoma was detected using dynamic MR examination. One was somatotrophin secreting adenoma, and three were corticotrophin realizing adenomas. There were no statistically significant differences between conventional and dynamic MR examination. Conclusion: Dynamic MR Examination as method can hardly match standard MR examination which remains standard in detection of pituitary microadenomas.
Percutaneus transluminal angioplasty of radiotherapy induced carotid stenosis: Case report
Authors: Sagic D. , Kecmanovic V. , Vidakovic R. , Kovacevic V. , Antonic Z. , Stanisic M. , Ilijevski N. , Radak Dj.
Published: March 2010

Frequent delayed effect of radiation therapy in the region of neck is stenosis of carotid arteries. We report the case of 32 years old man with history of radiation therapy due to Hodgkin lymphoma, and severe stenosis of the right common carotid artery. Stenosis was successfully treated by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with implantation of two bare-metal stents.
Computerized tomography of mediastinal tumors
Authors: Nenezic D.U. , Stevic R.
Published: March 2010

Tumors of the mediastinum represent a very heterogeneous group of primary and metastatic tumors. Most tumors of the mediastinum are detected on chest radiography, but for more precise view additional imaging methods are necessary. The most common causes of tumor mass in anterior mediastinum are thymoma, germ cell tumors, retrosternal goitre and Hodgkin's lymphoma. In the middle mediastinum most commonly tumors are congenital cysts, such as bronhogenic and pericardial cysts, and enlarged lymph nodes, while in the posterior mediastinum dominantly present neurogenic tumors. Complex anatomy of mediastinum infrequently makes difficulties in radiological diagnosis of these tumors. Computerized tomography (CT) is a radiological method of choice in the diagnosis of primary and / or secondary mediastinal lesions. Localization and structure of the tumor masses are very important for diagnosis. Knowledge of anatomy, with the standard topographic divisions on the anterior, middle and posterior mediastinum is necessary prerequisite for a valid CT diagnostic. Lesions in all parts of the mediastinum are systematically presented from the aspect of practical recommendations, with a view of the typical pathological findings.
Newer techniques in diagnostic imaging of colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Lucic M.A. , Miucin-Vukadinovic I.S. , Lucic S.M. , Koprivek K.M. , Spirovski M. , Kozarski D. , Saranovic Dj.
Published: March 2010

A wide spectrum of nowadays availible radiological and imaging methods in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with colorectal cancer enabled not only the improvement of primary colorectal malignancy detection, precise staging, regional involvement and metastatic spread assessment, but also the posttherapeutical estimation and follow- up. Having in mind that the exact diagnostic assessment of colorectal carcinoma by use of different imaging modalities still raises a lots of contradictories, in this report we have tried to present the possibilities of newer imaging techniques in the diagnostic evaluation of the patients with colorectal cancer.
Transcatether chemoembolization in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Masulovic D. , Milicevic M. , Markovic Z. , Saranovic Dj. , Sagic D. , Maksimovic R. , Mijailovic M.
Published: March 2010

The authors describe their own experience with chemoembolization as a palliation in the treatment of non resectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Material/Methods: During period of 64 months procedure was performed in 41 patients with non resectable hepatocellular carcinoma. The combination of Lipiodol and chemotherapeutic agents were applied in a. hepatica propria and its branches via transfemorally placed catheter. Stages of neoplasms were defined by Okuda method. Results: The majority of tumors (30) were classified as Grade I. Liver cirrhosis was present in 36 patients, and abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein were found in 68% of cases. Each of twenty nine patients had more than one chemoembolization therapy, therefore, a total of 85 treatments were carried out. CT scanning perfomed one month following the procedure revealed more than 75% of Lipiodol retention in 42% of cases, and over 90% of neoplasm necrosis was recorded in 90% of cases, while all treated patients manifested lower levels of alpha - fetoprotein. All patients survived during three and six months, respectively, while the survival rate was 68% after 18 months. No letal outcome was reported during procedure, and morbidity in relation to total number of interventions was 19%. Conclusion : Achieved effects of this relatively safe procedure in our series do not differ significantly from those in the literature.
Magnetic resonance imaging and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the diagnosis of prostate carcinoma
Authors: Spirovski M. , Lucic M.A. , Koprivek K.M. , Kozic D. , Prvulovic N.M. , Popov M.M. , Jovanovic D.
Published: March 2010

Purpose: To estimate the diagnostic possibilities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques and threedimensional multivoxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in patients with clinical suspicion of prostate carcinoma. Materials and methods: 36 patients suspected to have prostate carcinoma underwent MRI with dynamic contrast enhanced study and MRS at 1.5T MRI unit using a pelvic phased array coil. MRI and MRS results were correlated with pathohystological findings after radical prostatectomy and standard biopsy with 12 or 24 cores or guided biopsy. Results: Out of 44 detected prostate carcinomas, 38 (86.36%) demonstrated low T2W signal intensity while pathognomonic contrast enhancement has been detected in 40 (91%) carcinomas. MRS showed (Cho+Cr)/Ci ratio mean value of 3.52 in carcinoma, and 0.14 in normal prostatic tissue (p<0,01). Conclusion: MR techniques, both nonenhanced and contrast enhanced when combined with MRS can provide reliable diagnostic results in the evaluation of prostate carcinoma even by use of pelvic phased array coil at 1.5T unit.
Implementation of 3D-CT based brachytherapy in the postoperative radiotherapy of cervical cancer: Treatment technique and dose-volume parameters
Authors: Plesinac-Karapandzic V. , Borojevic N. , Markovic B. , Stankovic V. , Vuckovic S. , Plesinac S.
Published: March 2010

Intracavitary brachytherapy has an important roll in developing complications in postoperative radiotherapy of cervical cancer. 3D-CT based brachytherapy gives precisely estimating doses to organ at risk. In this study, we show our preliminary results in implementation of 3D-imaging based postoperative brachytherapy of cervical cancer: treatment technique and dose-volume parameters. During 2009 year, in 6 patients with early stage I-II of cervical cancer, brachytherapy treatment planning was based on the radiographs and CT imaging brachytherapy technique. Mean values of ICRU reference points of rectum was R max 4,2Gy and bladder B max. 4,5Gy, while estimated volume-dose parameters D0.1 cm 3 D1.0 cm 3 D2.0 cm 3 were presented with higher dose. Volume of organ at risk reflected the need for better bladder preparation. Our initial experience in performing CT-based brachytherapy, enabled us to introduce the characteristics of the parameters, assessment of their significance from the aspect of mutual relations applicators and organs at risk. Further analysis are needed, for monitoring the effects of 3D planning on complications.
Intra-arterial embolisation of uterine fibroma
Authors: Mijailovic M.Z. , Lukic S.M.
Published: March 2010

Uterine fibroid are benign tumors that consist most of the tumor occurrences in pelvic cavity of women. Possible courses of treatment include: medicament treatment, surgical and new intra-arterial embolisation method. The aim of the paper is to present achieved results in intra-arterial embolisation treatment of Uterine fibroid. Material and methods: A prospective study was performed in the period from October 2007 until October 2008. It included 36 women with symptomatic uterine fibroid. They were treated by intra-arterial embolisation. All patients had control MRI examinations after treatment. Embolisation was performed by 'cross-over' technique, using bilateral punction of femoral arteries, a selective catheterization a. uterine, and application of 750-900m Bead Blocks. Results: Average age of patients was 38.5 years. The most of fibroids had intramural localization (39%). solitary fibroids were seen in 56% of patients, multiple in 44%. Gynecological hemorrhage was the leading symptom with 34 patients (94%). One year after receiving intra-arterial embolisation treatment, fibroid regression of 50% was registered in all patients. There were no serious complications noted in our study, with the exception of postembolisation syndrome which occurred in 11 (30%) patients in a relatively mild form Conclusion: Intra-arterial embolisation of uterine fibroma is a method that in large percent of patients removes symptoms of uterine fibroma presence, prevents its growth, and safely helps women enter menopause when activity of hormone dependant tumor ceases.
An assessment of scattered radiation during fluoroscopic procedures in diagnostic radiology
Authors: Ciraj-Bjelac Olivera , Arandjic Danijela , Kosutic Dusko , Lazarevic Djordje
Published: March 2010

The results of measurements of scattered radiation in the vicinity of a fluoroscopic X-ray facility are presented in this paper. Two different fluoroscopic systems, one with an undercouch tube and one with an overcouch tube, were compared. The dose rate was measured during the simulation of a fluoroscopy procedure, using an ionization chamber as a dosemeter. The distribution of scattered radiation has been determined and results show a much higher dose rate in cases of an overcouch tube arrangement. When X-ray units with an undercouch tube are concerned, under same exposure conditions, the dose rate is higher in cases of a vertical beam. Prior to the measurements, the ionization chamber was examined in order to evaluate its suitability as a survey meter used in diagnostic radiology. Measurements show that below 1.2 s, the ionization chamber gives an underestimation of dose rates. Therefore, in order to perform accurate measurements using this instrument, exposure times should be above 1.2 s.
Fabrication of Al2O3/Al structure by nitric acid oxidation at room temperature
Authors: Iwata Takashi , Matsumoto Taketoshi , Terakawa Sumio , Kobayashi Hikaru
Published: March 2010

A thick Al2O3/aluminum (Al) structure has been fabricated by oxidation of Al with 68wt% and 98wt% nitric acid (HNO3) aqueous solutions at room temperature. Measurements of the Al2O3 thickness vs. the oxidation time show that reaction and diffusion are the rate-determining steps for oxidation with 68wt% and 98wt% HNO3 solutions, respectively. Observation of transmission electron micrographs shows that the Al2O3 layer formed with 68wt% HNO3 has a structure with cylindrically shaped pores vertically aligned from the Al2O3 surface to the Al2O3/Al interface. Due to the porous structure, diffusion of HNO3 proceeds easily, resulting in the reaction-limited oxidation mechanism. In this case, the Al2O3/Al structure is considerably rough. The Al2O3 layer formed with 98wt% HNO3 solutions, on the other hand, possesses a denser structure without pores, and the Al2O3/Al interface is much smoother, but the thickness of the Al2O3 layer formed on crystalline Al regions is much smaller than that on amorphous Al regions. Due to the relatively uniform Al2O3 thickness, the leakage current density flowing through the Al2O3 layer formed with 68wt% HNO3 is lower than that formed with 98wt% HNO3.
Asymptotic evolution of random unitary operations
Authors: Novotný Jaroslav , Alber Gernot , Jex Igor
Published: March 2010

We analyze the asymptotic dynamics of quantum systems resulting from large numbers of iterations of random unitary operations. Although, in general, these quantum operations cannot be diagonalized it is shown that their resulting asymptotic dynamics is described by a diagonalizable superoperator. We prove that this asymptotic dynamics takes place in a typically low dimensional attractor space which is independent of the probability distribution of the unitary operations applied. This vector space is spanned by all eigenvectors of the unitary operations involved which are associated with eigenvalues of unit modulus. Implications for possible asymptotic dynamics of iterated random unitary operations are presented and exemplified in an example involving random controlled-not operations acting on two qubits.
LGBT and Queer Research in Higher Education
Authors: Renn Kristen A.
Published: March 2010

In this article, the author provides an overview of existing literature addressing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT), and queer issues in higher education. She argues that although colleges and universities are the source of much critical and postmodern writing about LGBT and queer topics, scholarship on LGBT/queer people and organizations in higher education itself lacks theoretical depth. The author points to ways that existing research approaches and theoretical stances benefit higher education practice and suggests areas in which attention to methodological rigor and theoretical advancement is needed.
Test-Based Grade Retention
Authors: Penfield Randall D.
Published: March 2010

A growing body of research showing that grade retention serves as an educationally low-quality placement has raised increasing concerns about whether the use of standardized tests in making decisions concerning grade retention conforms to current standards for appropriate and nondiscriminatory test use. This article examines the extent to which test-based grade retention policies comply with standards for fair and appropriate test use based on norms established by the professional testing community. The results of the investigation indicate that test-based retention policies potentially violate several of the professional standards. The points of violation are presented, and the implications for test-based retention policies are discussed.
Causes and Consequences of Cognitive Functioning Across the Life Course
Authors: Hauser Robert M.
Published: March 2010

Research on variation in cognitive abilities has focused largely on their genetic or experiential sources and on their economic consequences. This article takes a broader look at the consequences of cognitive ability—IQ—across the life course. Contrary to received wisdom, the effects of IQ on economic success are almost entirely mediated by educational attainment. Among persons with equal levels of schooling, IQ has little influence on job performance, occupational standing, earnings, or wealth. But there are other, sometimes surprising consequences of IQ throughout adult life. The long-term correlates of adolescent cognition include drinking behavior, survey participation, Internet use, and the timing of menopause. These are surveyed primarily using findings from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study.
Rice and perfluorocarbon liquid pads: Comparison of fat suppression effects
Authors: Moriya Susumu , Miki Yukio , Yokobayashi Tsuneo , Yamamoto Akira , Kanagaki Mitsunori , Komori Yoshiaki , Ishikawa Mitsunori
Published: March 2010

Background: With the chemical shift selective (CHESS) method, lingering fat signals remain because of the effects of nonuniformity in the magnetic field. One method to reduce this phenomenon is the use of pads filled with rice (rice pad), but the improvement in fat suppression effects with rice pads, as compared with conventional perfluorocarbon liquid pads, remains unclear.

Purpose: To investigate whether rice pads are superior to perfluorocarbon liquid pads in improving fat suppression effects in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination of the knee.

Material and Methods: Subjects were 10 healthy volunteers (5 men, 5 women; aged 20–45 years), from whom images taken using the CHESS methods were collected. Two images were taken for each subject; one with a rice pad placed under the knee and the knee flexed, and the other with a perfluorocarbon liquid pad placed under the knee and the knee flexed. Images were visually assessed by one radiologist and one radiologic technologist. Kendall's W and Wilcoxon signed rank test were used for statistical comparisons.

Results: Of the 20 evaluations made by the 2 observers, scores for images obtained with the rice pad were higher than those with the perfluorocarbon liquid pad in 18 cases, while the scores were equal in 2 cases. Images with the rice pad were not inferior in any cases. The mean score for visual assessment was 4.65 for the rice pad and 3.0 for the perfluorocarbon liquid pad. The rice pad was thus confirmed to be superior to the perfluorocarbon liquid pad ( P=0.0039).

Conclusion: The rice pad exhibited better performance in improving the fat suppression effect. Thus, the rice pad is a superior product that is inexpensive and simple to use.
A comparison of seminal vesicle size on CT between autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients and normal subjects
Authors: Joo Ijin , Kim Seung Hyup , Cho Jeong Yeon
Published: March 2010

Background: Extrarenal manifestations are common in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Although seminal vesicles can also be involved in patients with ADPKD, little is known about the size differences of the seminal vesicles between ADPKD patients and normal subjects.

Purpose: To determine whether the size of seminal vesicles in ADPKD patients is larger than that in normal subjects with the use of three-dimensional (3D) CT.

Material and Methods: Using a retrospective case-control study design, we reviewed the findings of 696 male patients with an age range of 20–69 years who underwent contrast enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) imaging of the kidney in our institution from August 2007 to July 2008. A total of 68 male patients with ADPKD comprised the study group. Another 68 age-matched non-ADPKD male patients comprised the control group. The size of bilateral seminal vesicles was assessed by measurement of the short dimension on axial, coronal, and sagittal images by the use of a picture archiving and communication system (PACS).

Results: The mean width of seminal vesicles in ADPKD patients was 1.70±0.40 cm (axial images), 1.86±0.45 cm (coronal), and 1.59±0.39 cm (sagittal). For control group subjects, the mean width was 1.53±0.29 cm (axial), 1.68±0.43 cm (coronal), and 1.48±0.31 cm (sagittal). The mean size differences between the ADPKD and control groups for the measured widths on axial and coronal images were statistically significant ( P=0.01 and P=0.02, respectively). The width as measured on axial images showed a decrease with age in the control group subjects (linear trend, P=0.005), but no significant decrease was noted in ADPKD patients.

Conclusion: The seminal vesicles were demonstrated to be larger in ADPKD patients as compared with normal subjects as determined with the use of 3D CT.