bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma-releasate on intervertebral disc degeneration in the rabbit anular puncture model: a preclinical study
Authors: Obata Shuji , Akeda Koji , Imanishi Takao , Masuda Koichi , Bae Won , Morimoto Ryo , Asanuma Yumiko , Kasai Yuichi , Uchida Atsumasa , Sudo Akihiro
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a fraction of plasma in which several growth factors are concentrated at high levels. The active soluble releasate isolated following platelet activation of PRP (PRP-releasate) has been demonstrated to stimulate the metabolism of IVD cells in vitro. The in vivo effect of PRP-releasate on degenerated IVD remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the reparative effects of autologous PRP-releasate on degenerated intervertebral discs (IVDs).

Methods

To induce disc degeneration, New Zealand white rabbits (n = 12) received anular puncture in two noncontiguous discs. Autologous PRP and PPP (platelet-poor plasma) were isolated from fresh blood using two centrifugation techniques. Four weeks after the initial puncture, releasate isolated from clotted PPP or PRP (PPP- or PRP-releasate), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS; control) was injected into the punctured discs. Disc height, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2-mapping and histology were assessed.

Results

Anular puncture produced a consistent disc narrowing within four weeks. PRP-releasate induced a statistically significant restoration of disc height (PRP vs. PPP and PBS, P<0.05). In T2-quantification, the mean T2-values of the nucleus pulposus (NP) and anulus fibrosus (AF) of the discs were not significantly different among the three treatment groups. Histologically, the number of chondrocyte-like cells was significantly higher in the discs injected with PRP-releasate compared to that with PBS.

Conclusions

The administration of active PRP-releasate induced a reparative effect on rabbit degenerated IVDs. The results of this study suggest that the use of autologous PRP-releasate is safe and can lead to a clinical application for IVD degeneration.
Outcome of ICU patients with Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Zahar Jean-Ralph , Schwebel Carole , Adrie Christophe , Garrouste-Orgeas Maité , Français Adrien , Vesin Aurélien , Nguile-Makao Molière , Tabah Alexis , Laupland Kevin , Le-Monnier Alban , Timsit Jean-François ,   the OUTCOMEREA study group
Published: November 2012

Introduction

As data from Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in intensive care unit (ICU) are still scarce, our objectives were to assess the morbidity and mortality of ICU-acquired CDI.

Methods

We compared patients with ICU-acquired CDI (watery or unformed stools occurring ≥ 72 hours after ICU admission with a stool sample positive for C. difficile toxin A or B) with two groups of controls hospitalized at the same time in the same unit. The first control group comprised patients with ICU-acquired diarrhea occurring ≥ 72 hours after ICU admission with a stool sample negative for C. difficile and for toxin A or B. The second group comprised patients without any diarrhea.

Results

Among 5,260 patients, 512 patients developed one episode of diarrhea. Among them, 69 (13.5%) had a CDI; 10 (14.5%) of them were community-acquired, contrasting with 12 (17.4%) that were hospital-acquired and 47 (68%) that were ICU-acquired. A pseudomembranous colitis was associated in 24/47 (51%) ICU patients. The median delay between diagnosis and metronidazole administration was one day (25th Quartile; 75th Quartile (0; 2) days). The case-fatality rate for patients with ICU-acquired CDI was 10/47 (21.5%), as compared to 112/443 (25.3%) for patients with negative tests. Neither the crude mortality (cause specific hazard ratio; CSHR = 0.70, 95% confidence interval; CI 0.36 to 1.35, P = 0.3) nor the adjusted mortality to confounding variables (CSHR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.4 to 1.64, P = 0.6) were significantly different between CDI patients and diarrheic patients without CDI. Compared to the general ICU population, neither the crude mortality (SHR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.34 to 1.21, P = 0.17), nor the mortality adjusted to confounding variables (CSHR = 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38 to 1.35, P = 0.3), were significantly different between the two groups. The estimated increase in the duration of stay due to CDI was 8.0 days ± 9.3 days, (P = 0.4) in comparison to the diarrheic population, and 6.3 days ± 4.3 (P = 0.14) in comparison to the general ICU population.

Conclusions

If treated early, ICU-acquired CDI is not independently associated with an increased mortality and impacts marginally the ICU length of stay.
Impaired Response of FGF-23 to Oral Phosphate in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Possible Mechanism of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Yoda Koichiro , Imanishi Yasuo , Yoda Maki , Mishima Takashi , Ichii Mitsuru , Yamada Shinsuke , Mori Katsuhito , Emoto Masanori , Inaba Masaaki
Published: November 2012

Background:

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23, secreted from osteocytes/osteoblasts, plays major roles in phosphate (Pi)-mediated stimulation of PTH secretion and consequently in regulation of serum Pi. Osteocyte/osteoblast dysfunction develops in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Objective:

Our objective was to examine whether increases in serum FGF-23 and PTH after oral Pi stimulation are impaired in type 2 DM.

Design and Methods:

The subjects were 10 DM and 10 non-DM patients without chronic kidney disease stage 3–5. Serum FGF-23, intact PTH (iPTH), and Pi were measured serially after oral Pi administration at a daily dose of 2.0 g.

Results:

Pi administration caused significant increases of FGF-23 by 2 h and iPTH by 4 h in non-DM patients. These increases were attenuated in DM patients. After 2 d of Pi stimulation, serum FGF-23 and iPTH remained elevated in non-DM patients but not in DM. In all subjects, initial changes of serum FGF-23 (0–2 h) and iPTH (0–4 h) were positively correlated (r = 0.528) and showed significant negative correlations with later changes in serum Pi (2–4 h) (r = −0.457 and r = −0.673, respectively). Serum Pi (2–4 h) significantly increased in DM patients, consistent with the lack of change in serum FGF-23 and iPTH, whereas serum Pi did not change significantly in non-DM patients.

Conclusion:

These results show that increases of serum FGF-23 and PTH in response to Pi stimulation are impaired in type 2 DM and that serum Pi is significantly increased thereafter. This may be a mechanism underlying advanced atherosclerosis in type 2 DM.
First-Principles Molecular Dynamics Insight into Fe2+ Complexes Adsorbed on Edge Surfaces of Clay Minerals
Authors: Liu Xiandong , Meijer Evert Jan , Lu Xiancai , Wang Rucheng
Published: November 2012

Using first-principles molecular-dynamics simulations, probable inner-sphere complexes of Fe2+ adsorbed on the edge surfaces of clay minerals were investigated. Ferrous ions are important reductants in natural processes and their properties can be altered significantly by complexation on edge surfaces of clay minerals. However, the microscopic picture of adsorption sites and structures of Fe2+ is difficult to reveal with modern experimental techniques and, therefore, remains unclear. From the results of first-principles molecular-dynamics simulations, evidence has been provided that complexes on ≡Si—O sites were the most stable forms, which should be responsible for the experimentally observed pH-dependent uptake. Such complexation was found to be strong enough to distort the local coordination structures of Si—O tetrahedra in the substrate. Analyses showed that Fe2+—Owater coordination structures were dominated by the solvent with surface groups participating in the complexes via H bonding. The present study provided a microscopic basis for understanding the chemical processes involving surface-complexed Fe2+ ions.
On the Problems of Total Specific Surface Area and Cation Exchange Capacity Measurements in Organic-Rich Sedimentary Rocks
Authors: Derkowski Arkadiusz , Bristow Thomas F.
Published: November 2012

The increasing exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbon resources hosted by oil and gas shales demands the correct measurement of certain properties of sedimentary rocks rich in organic matter (OM). Two essential properties of OM-rich shales, the total specific surface area (TSSA) and cation exchange capacity (CEC), are primarily controlled by the rock’s clay mineral content (i.e. the type and quantity). This paper presents the limitations of two commonly used methods of measuring bulk-rock TSSA and CEC, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (EGME) retention and visible light spectrometry of Co(III)-hexamine, in OM-rich rocks. The limitations were investigated using a suite of OM-rich shales and mudstones that vary in origin, age, clay mineral content, and thermal maturity.

Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether reacted strongly with and was retained by natural OM, producing excess TSSA if calculated using commonly applied adsorption coefficients. Although the intensity of the reaction seems to depend on thermal maturity, OM in all the samples analyzed reacted with EGME to an extent that made TSSA values unreliable; therefore, EGME is not recommended for TSSA measurements on samples containing >3% OM.

Some evidence indicated that drying at ⩾200°C may influence bulk-rock CEC values by altering OM in early mature rocks. In light of this evidence, drying at 110°C is recommended as a more suitable pretreatment for CEC measurements in OM-rich shales. When using visible light spectrometry for CEC determination, leachable sample components contributed to the absorbance of the measured wavelength (470 nm), decreasing the calculated bulk rock CEC value. A test of sample-derived excess absorbance with zero-absorbance solutions (i.e. NaCl) and the introduction of corrections to the CEC calculation are recommended.
The Determinative Role of the Exchange Cation and Layer-Charge Density of Smectite on Aflatoxin Adsorption
Authors: Deng Youjun , Liu Lian , Velázquez Ana Luisa Barrientos , Dixon Joe B.
Published: November 2012

Using bentonites to adsorb aflatoxin is an effective method of minimizing the toxicity of aflatoxin to animals and humans. Early studies indicated a more than 10-fold difference in aflatoxin adsorption capacity among different bentonites. The determining mineralogical and chemical properties of the clays in aflatoxin adsorption are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that a bentonite’s selectivity and adsorption capacity for aflatoxin is mainly determined by the ‘size matching’ requirement, on a nm scale, between the non-polar interlayer surface domains and the aflatoxin molecules. The non-polar surface domain size of smectites was varied by (1) selecting smectites with different charge densities; and (2) changing the valence and the size of exchange cations to control the amount of water in the hydration shells of the cations. Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction were also used to characterize the aflatoxin-smectite complexes to investigate if layer-charge density would affect the bonding strength between aflatoxin and the minerals. A large aflatoxin adsorption capacity and high selectivity for aflatoxin were achieved by selecting smectites that had low charge density as represented by their <110 meq/100 g cation exchange capacity. An individual smectite’s selectivity and adsorption capacity for aflatoxin could be enhanced or weakened by replacing the exchange cation. When the smectite was saturated with divalent cations that have smaller hydrated radius (e.g. Ba2+), the smectite’s adsorption capacity and affinity for aflatoxin were enhanced. Aflatoxin entered the interlayer of all six smectites tested. The strength of its bonding to the smectites was not affected by the layer-charge density of the smectites. The results confirmed the importance of nm-scale polarity and size match between aflatoxin molecules and the adsorbing sites on smectite. The high selectivity for aflatoxin can be achieved by selecting a smectite with adequate charge density or by replacing the exchange cations with divalent cations that have low hydration energy.
High Expression of Survivin Is Prognostic of Shorter Survival but Not Predictive of Adjuvant Gemcitabine Benefit in Patients with Resected Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xie Hao , Jiang Wei , Xiao Shu-Yuan , Liu Xiuli
Published: November 2012

Overexpression of survivin has been associated with gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic adenocarcinoma, but previous studies have shown conflicting results. This study aims to determine its prognostic value in resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma with or without adjuvant therapy and its predictive value in adjuvant gemcitabine benefit in patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma. This study included 118 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodectomy from 1999 to 2007, with no neoadjuvant chemoradiation. Forty-five patients received adjuvant gemcitabine. Survivin expression was assessed immunohistochemically and was graded as low (≤10% positive cells) and high (>10% positive cells) by recursive partitioning analysis. Prognostic factors, including tumor size, number of positive lymph nodes, perineural invasion, and stage, were identified for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) using Cox proportional hazards models. Multivariable analysis of the entire cohort revealed that both high survivin expression and perineural invasion predict significantly shorter OS (hazard ratio [HR] 2.0, p=0.01; HR 1.9, p=0.01, respectively) and shorter PFS (HR 1.9, p=0.04; HR 3.1, p=0.0006, respectively). Expression of survivin predicts neither OS nor PFS in patients treated with adjuvant gemcitabine. In summary, high expression of survivin is associated with shorter OS and PFS in patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma after adjusting for other histopathological factors. However, survivin has no predictive value of adjuvant gemcitabine benefit.
A local-to-global result for topological spherical buildings
Authors: McCallum Rupert
Published: November 2012

Suppose that Δ;Δʹ are two buildings each arising from a semisimple algebraic group over a field, a topological field in the former case, and that for both the buildings the Coxeter diagram has no isolated nodes. We give conditions under which a partially defined injective chamber map, whose domain is the subcomplex of Δ generated by a nonempty open set of chambers, and whose codomain is Δʹ, is guaranteed to extend to a unique injective chamber map. Related to this result is a local version of the Borel-Tits theorem on abstract homomorphisms of simple algebraic groups.
汉语的主观情态和客观情态
Authors: 彭, 利贞 , 刘, 翼斌
Published: November 2012

提要

在情态研究中，对主观情态与客观情态的区别的认识远非清楚。现代汉语的情态表达，从如下方面表现出主观与客观的区别：（一）不同类型情态的情态动词连续同现遵循的EDD规则，体现了不同类型的情态之间主观与客观的区别，它要求主观性强的情态类型先于主观性弱的情态类型排列。（二）表达同义情态的两个情态动词的同现，原因在于它们表达的情态存在主观和客观的区别，两个同义情态动词同现时，主观情态先于客观情态。（三）表达同义情态的不同情态构式存在功能上的差别，原因也在于它们表达的同义情态存在主观与客观的差别。（四）出于语用目的，现代汉语存在大量的情态客观化表达，说明主观情态与客观情态的区别存在语用动因。
汉语教材词语注解中文化因素的呈现
Authors: 赵, 明
Published: November 2012

提要

语言与文化相融的特性决定了汉语教材中词语注解也具有跨文化属性。通过对目前较典型的中级汉语教材的分析发现，目前汉语教材的词语注解中存在着忽略词语的文化意义、文化意义呈现不够充分或未能提供与文化有关的例证等问题。这些问题的出现，原因主要在于忽略文化层级性、忽视文化意义的隐含性和教材编者主体的失误。要解决这些问题，汉语教材词语注解涉及文化因素时则应遵循“适度、有效、优先、多维”的原则，也在多个方面还存在可完善和改进之处。
What do subject pronouns do in discourse? Cognitive, mechanical and constructional factors in variation
Authors: Travis, Catherine E. , Torres Cacoullos, Rena
Published: November 2012

In languages with variable subject expression, or “pro-drop” languages, when do speakers use subject pronouns? We address this question by investigating the linguistic conditioning of Spanish first-person singular pronoun yo in conversational data, testing hypotheses about speakers' choice of an expressed subject as factors in multivariate analysis. Our results indicate that, despite a widely held understanding of a contrastive role for subject pronouns, yo expression is primarily driven by cognitive, mechanical and constructional factors. In cognitive terms, we find that yo is favored in the presence of human subjects intervening between coreferential 1sg subjects (a refined measure of the well-described phenomenon of “switch-reference”). A mechanical effect is observed in two distinct manifestations of priming: the increased rate of yo when the previous coreferential first singular subject was realized as yo and when the subject of the immediately preceding clause was realized pronominally. And evidence for a particular yo + cognitive verb construction is provided by a speaker-turn effect, the favoring of yo in a turn-initial Intonation Unit, that is observed with cognitive (but not other) verbs, which form a category centered around high frequency yo creo ‘I think’.
Whatisduality of patterning, anyway?
Authors: Ladd D. Robert
Published: November 2012

The notion of duality of patterning (henceforth DoP), at least for readers of this special issue, is probably most closely associated with Charles F. Hockett's project of identifying the ‘design features’ of language in order to characterise the ways in which human language is unique among biological communication systems (Hockett 1958: chapter 64; Hockett 1960; Hockett and Ascher 1964). Roughly speaking, DoP refers to the fact that the meaningful units of language – words or morphemes – are made up of meaningless units – phonemes or features – whose only function is to distinguish the meaningful units from one another. Stated this way, the idea seems quite straightforward, and to have it explicitly stated as a property of language seems a useful insight. In fact, though, of all the design features discussed by Hockett, DoP seems to have engendered the most confusion. The idea that meaningful units are composed of meaningless ones seems simple enough, but many complications arise when we look more closely. The goal of this short paper is to document some of the complications and perhaps alleviate some of the confusion.
Comparison of functional and morphological changes of transplanted kidneys from marginal and ideal donors
Authors: Borda Bernadett
Published: November 2012

Introduction: Despite an increased number of cadaver donors and organ transplantations, there is a marked increase in the number of patients included in the transplantation waiting list. Aim and method: The aim of the study was to evaluate functional and morphologic changes of kidney allografts obtained from marginal (n = 63) and “ideal” donors (n = 186). In patients with kidneys from marginal donors, the impact of donor age and the presence of hypertension in donors on kidney function were also studied. Results: One year after kidney transplantation, kidney function was similar in patients transplanted with kidneys from marginal and “ideal” donors, although significant morphologic differences were observed between the two groups. However, five years after transplantation serum creatinine (p = 0.0001) and eGFR (p = 0.003) were significantly different between patients transplanted with kidneys from marginal and “ideal” donors. There was also a significant difference in serum creatinine level of patients who received kidneys from donors older than 55 years of age compared to patients whose kidney allografts were obtained form donor who has hypertension (p = 0.0003). Acute rejection episodes (p = 0.0004) and interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (p = 0.002) occurred more frequently in patients with kidneys from marginal compared to those from “ideal” donors. Conclusion: One year after kidney transplantation renal function is similar in patients transplanted with kidneys from marginal and „ideal” donors, but patients with kidneys from marginal donors have significantly more impaired renal function five years after kidney transplantation. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1793–1796.
Outcome following Secondary Autogenous Bone Grafting before and after Canine Eruption in Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Nishihara Kazuhide , Nozoe Etsuro , Maeda Aya , Hirahara Narihiro , Okawachi Takako , Miyawaki Shouichi , Nakamura Norifumi
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine whether the long axis and eruption of the cleft-adjacent canine affect postoperative outcomes in secondary autogenous bone grafting (SABG).

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Setting

Multidisciplinary long-term follow-up at Kagoshima University Hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Twenty-five patients with complete unilateral cleft lip and palate (11 male, 14 female) were compared between unerupted and erupted groups for canine developmental stage, canine angle, and vertical height at bone grafting at 1 year and more than 4 years after SABG. The interalveolar septal heights at 1 and more than 4 years were evaluated by orthopantomograms.

Results

All patients in both groups accomplished dental rehabilitation with orthodontic treatment alone without prosthetic appliances. Although the rate of an acceptable bone bridge tended to be lower in the unerupted group (62.5%) than in the erupted group (88.8%), the difference was not significant ( P = .158). The canine angle at bone grafting was significantly different between acceptable (69.2° ± 12.2°) and poor cases (77.3° ± 6.2°) at more than 4 years in the unerupted group ( P = .049). The acceptable bone bridge rate might reflect mechanical stress added by natural eruption and orthodontic force.

Conclusions

We suggest that SABG should be planned in accordance with the canine angle, crown and root development, the eruption position of the cleft-adjacent canine, and the timing of added mechanical stress in the alveolar cleft, considering the bone formation in the alveolar cleft.
Novel Insights and Therapeutical Applications in the Field of Inhibitors of COX-2
Authors: Kiefer W. , Dannhardt G.
Published: November 2012

The discovery of the two isoenzymes COX-1 and COX-2 and the knowledge of their function, localisation and regulation has initiated the development of COX-2 selective inhibitors (coxibs). Inducible COX-2 at the peripheral site of inflammation has been detected in the early 1990s, the involvement of recently detected spinal COX-2 has led to new insights into mechanisms of pain and may explain analgesic and antipyretic properties of COX-2 selective inhibitors. The coxibs rofecoxib and celecoxib have been introduced into therapy and seem to offer some advantages over the classical non-selective NSAIDs. The search for new COX-2 inhibitors is going on, the development of etoricoxib and lumiracoxib is a step ahead concerning efficacy, tolerability and safety. Until today COX-2 selective inhibitors have found their place in therapy of arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhea and acute pain. A new paradigm in pain therapy seems to justify their use in perioperative settings in a preemptive or multimodal therapeutical strategy. In the future COX-2 selective inhibitors as opioid sparing agents could become an important tool in pain therapy. Even a therapeutical benefit of COX-2 selective inhibitors in the treatment of Alzheimers Disease or in the prevention or treatment of colorectal or prostate cancer is presently intensely investigated. Recently some authors reported on COX-3, a splicing variant of COX-1. If COX-3 really represents the target for acetaminophen must be called into question.
Potassium Channel Blockade by the Sea Anemone Toxin ShK for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis and Other Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Norton Raymond S. , Pennington Michael W. , Wulff Heike
Published: November 2012

Expression of the two lymphocyte potassium channels, the voltage-gated channel Kv1.3 and the calcium activated channel IKCa1, changes during differentiation of human T cells. While IKCa1 is the functionally dominant channel in naïve and “early” memory T cells, Kv1.3 is crucial for the activation of terminally differentiated effector memory (TEM) T cells. Because of the involvement of TEM cells in autoimmune processes, Kv1.3 is regarded as a promising target for the treatment of T-cell mediated autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and the prevention of chronic transplant rejection. ShK, a 35- residue polypeptide toxin from the sea anemone, Stichodactyla helianthus, blocks Kv1.3 at low picomolar concentrations. ShK adopts a central helix-kink-helix fold, and alanine-scanning and other mutagenesis studies have defined its channel-binding surface. Models have been developed of how this toxin effects K+- channel blockade and how its docking configuration might differ in ShK-Dap22, which contains a single side chain substitution that confers specificity for Kv1.3 blockade. ShK, ShK-Dap22 and the Kv1.3 blocking scorpion toxin kaliotoxin have been shown to prevent and treat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in rats, a model for multiple sclerosis. A fluoresceinated analog of ShK, ShK-F6CA, has been developed, which allows the detection of activated TEM cells in human and animal blood samples by flow cytometry and the visualization of Kv1.3 channel distribution in living cells. ShK and its analogs are currently undergoing further evaluation as leads in the development of new biopharmaceuticals for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other T-cell mediated autoimmune disorders.
Pharmacokinetic Distribution of 67Cu(II)2[3,5-Diisopropyl(Carboxy- 14C)Salicylate]4 Among Murine Tissues
Authors: Blincoe Clifton , Chidambaram Mani , Salari Hamid , Bond Kyle B. , Evans Doris T. , Gray-Kaufman Rhonda A. , Griffey Hal Brent , Tranby Sandra Gilbreth , Garner-Johnson Buffy , Lee Tina , John Sorenson R.J.
Published: November 2012

Non-Toxic doses of tetrakis-μ-3,5-diisopropylsalicylatodicopper(II) [Cu(II)2(3,5-DIPS)4] have been found to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-ulcer, anti-colitis, anti-convulsant, anti-cancer, antimutagenic, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-diabetic activities and, in addition, facilitates recovery from lethal irradiation and ischemia-reperfusion injuries. The goal of this research was to determine the time-dependent tissue distribution and persistence of 67Cu and the 14C labeled salicylate ligand, carboxy-14C-3, 5- diisopropylsalicylate [3,5-DIP(carboxy-14C)S], following subcutaneous administration of a 50 µmole per kilogram of body mass dose of double labeled tetrakis-µ-3,5-diisopropyl[carboxy-14C]salicylatodiaquo [67Cu]dicopper(II) 67Cu(II)2[3,5-DIP(carboxy-14C)S]4. This compound was administered to nine groups of six 20 gram female C57BL / 6 mice and blood, liver, kidney, intestine, lung, thymus, femur, muscle, spleen, and brain tissues removed and analyzed for 67Cu and 14C at 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after treatment. These data were then analyzed using a pharmacokinetic model simulation program. Both 67Cu and 14C were found in all tissues as well as urine and feces at 0.5 hour after administration. As anticipated, 67Cu entered the liver storage pool; it was conserved by the kidneys, and subsequently underwent release in maintaining 67Cu levels in all other tissues. While the presence of 67Cu correlated with the presence of the salicylate ligand, 3,5- DIP (carboxy-14C)S, early in the course of this experiment, the ligand was lost via ligand exchange and could not be measured in blood, kidney, intestine, lung, thymus, spleen, and brain after 24 hours following administration. However, 3,5-DIP(carboxy -14C)S persisted in liver, femur, and muscle throughout the 5-day period of study. It is suggested that marked lipophilicity accounts for its very rapid distribution to all tissues wherein it undergoes ligand exchange as 67Cu is incorporated into Cu-dependent enzymes and proteins and persists in tissues based upon physiological demand for Cu in meeting normal biochemical requirements.
Ferrous Iron Phosphorus in Sediments: Development of a Quantification Method through 2,2′‐Bipyridine Extraction
Authors: Li Qingman , Wang Xingxiang , Bartlett Rebecca , Pinay Gilles , Kan Dan , Zhang Wen , Sun Jingxian
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACT  The role of ferrous iron in the phosphorus cycle of an aquatic ecosystem is poorly understood because of a lack of suitable methods to quantitatively evaluate ferrous iron phosphorus (FIP) phases. Using sediments sampled from Fubao Bay of Dianchi Lake in China, a novel extraction method for FIP using 2,2′‐bipyridine was explored. Total phosphorus and iron in the sediments ranged from 1.0 to 5.0 mg/g (dry weight) and 28.5 to 90.6 mg/g, respectively. Organic content (as indicated by loss on ignition or LOI) and iron(II) ranged from 3.1 to 27.0% and 26.5 to 64.9 mg/g, respectively. The dissolution dynamics of FIP extraction with a low solid/liquid ratio (1:25) indicated that a single application of 0.2% 2,2′‐bipyridine extracted both iron(II) (Fe(II)) and phosphorus (as PO43−) in sediments with different organic contents with low efficiency. The extraction efficiency of Fe(II) was improved by alteration of the solid/liquid ratio, but the effect was limited. However, addition of a 1:1000 solid/liquid ratio of 0.5 M potassium chloride to a 0.2% 2,2′‐bipyridine solution significantly accelerated extraction of FIP with the release of Fe(II) and phosphorus toward equilibrium at approximately 150 hours. Further investigation demonstrated that 2,2′‐bipyridine exhibited a higher selectivity in distinguishing FIP from phosphorus bound to ferric (Fe(III)) oxides or precipitated by calcium (Ca2+). Air‐drying sediments significantly decreased the amount of extracted FIP, which indicates that fresh, wet sediment should be used in this type of FIP extraction. Based on experimental results using the proposed extraction protocol, (1) FIP in sediments of Fubao Bay had a predominant status in the lake sediment and accounted for 23.4 to 39.8% of total phosphorus, and (2) Fe(II)FIP released in the extraction is directly proportional to phosphorusFIP (Fe(II)FIP = 2.84 × PFIP + 0.0007; R2 = 0.97) with an average molar ratio of Fe(II)FIP/PFIP of 2.7. This study shows that FIP extraction with 2,2′‐bipyridine is a robust method for releasing ferrous iron associated with phosphorus. Further, the high percentage of FIP in total phosphorus (40%) measured in the study site using this extraction method suggests that FIP might have been often underestimated in previous studies.
Electropolymerization Treatment of Phenol Wastewater and the Reclamation of Phenol
Authors: Zhang Wen , Bao Liyin , Zhang Xiaoyu , He Jun , Wei Gang
Published: November 2012

Abstract  Electrochemical treatment of phenol wastewater was carried out with stainless steel anodes, and phenol removal was achieved through the electropolymerization process. The effects of phenol concentration and bath voltage were discussed. The original chemical oxygen demand (COD) value was approximately 500 mg/L. After electropolymerization treatment, phenol concentration was 0.087 mmol/L with a removal efficiency of 95.6%, and COD was 68 mg/L with a removal efficiency of 86.5%. During treatment, the average current efficiency was 60.36% and power consumption was 27.62 kJ/kg (6.96 kWh/ton). The electropolymerization reaction was analyzed by cyclic voltammetry, and the polyphenol product was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy.
Preparation of Mulberry Branch Biomass Char and Its Usage in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Wu Dong Lei , Wang Wei , Zhang Jing Hui , Fu Hao , Lv Xiao Shu , Xu Xin Hua
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACT  Biomass char was prepared from mulberry branches by physical activation. An examination by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that the functional groups of Si‐O were mostly burnt out, significantly decreasing the ash content. Analysis of data from a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) test also revealed increased surface roughness and pore structure, which improved the adsorption capacity of biomass char after preparation. The optimum conditions for preparation were found to be pyrolysis at 700 °C for 30 minutes, and then activation at 750 °C for one hour, with 3.4% steam content for the activating agent. The prepared biomass char was then employed to adsorb ammonium, copper(II) actetate [Cu(II)] and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] in a solution. The results indicated that the prepared biomass char had a better adsorptive performance than the raw material. Moreover, the removal of determinands increased along with the dosage, and the highest adsorption efficiency of ammonium, copper(II) acetate [Cu(II)] and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] were found to be 20%, 100% and 50%, respectively. The adsorptions of ammonium and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] can be simulated by a pseudo‐second order model, while the adsorption of copper(II) acetate [Cu(II)] is better simulated by a pseudo‐first order model. The adsorption isotherms of copper(II) acetate [Cu(II)] by biomass char were also investigated, and the Langmuir isotherm was found to best describe the adsorption process.
Small substructures and decidability issues for first-order logic with two variables
Authors: Kieroński Emanuel , Otto Martin
Published: November 2012

We study first-order logic with two variables FO2 and establish a small substructure property. Similar to the small model property for FO2 we obtain an exponential size bound on embedded substructures, relative to a fixed surrounding structure that may be infinite. We apply this technique to analyse the satisfiability problem for FO2 under constraints that require several binary relations to be interpreted as equivalence relations. With a single equivalence relation, FO2 has the finite model property and is complete for non-deterministic exponential time, just as for plain FO2. With two equivalence relations, FO2 does not have the finite model property, but is shown to be decidable via a construction of regular models that admit finite descriptions even though they may necessarily be infinite. For three or more equivalence relations, FO2 is undecidable.
A strong polarized relation
Authors: Garti Shimon , Shelah Saharon
Published: November 2012

We prove that the strong polarized relationis consistent with ZFC, for a singularμwhich is a limit of measurable cardinals.
The Friedman-Sheard programme in intuitionistic logic
Authors: Leigh Graham E. , Rathjen Michael
Published: November 2012

This paper compares the roles classical and intuitionistic logic play in restricting the free use of truth principles in arithmetic. We consider fifteen of the most commonly used axiomatic principles of truth and classify every subset of them as either consistent or inconsistent over a weak purely intuitionistic theory of truth.
Functional results after surgery for overt rectal prolaps
Authors: Xynos Evaghelos
Published: November 2012

Several procedures have been designed and applied to treat overt rectal
prolapse (ORP). Transperineal procedures, such Altemeier and Delorme
operations, are associated with less morbidity, but higher rate of recurrence
and less optimal functional results. Transabdominal procedures include a
variety of rectopexies with the use of prosthesis or sutures and with or
without resection of the redundant sigmoid colon. Nowadays, they are all
approached by laparoscopy. Traditional prosthesis rectopexies repair ORP and
improve incontinence, but are associated with increased rate of constipation.
Resection sutuere-rectopexy seems to be associated with the best functional
results, particular in patients with slow transit constipation and
diverticular disease. More recently, prosthesis ventral coloporectopexy seems
to be less invasive and to offer very satisfactory results.
Metastatic colorectal cancer: What about the primary?
Authors: Popescu Irinel , Alexandrescu Tiberiu
Published: November 2012

Background: Approximately 25% of patients with colorectal cancer present
synchronous metastases, most frequently located in the liver. Aims: The
assessment of optimal therapeutic strategies for the primary tumor in such
patients. Methods: We analyzed the outcomes of 209 patients who underwent
simultaneous or delayed resection of the primary tumor and liver metastases,
the survival rates of patients with initially unresectable liver metastases
that were rendered resectable, and the prognostic factors related to the
primary tumor. Results: The outcomes of simultaneous resections were similar
to those of delayed resection. In patients with initially unresectable liver
metastases that were rendered resectable, the survival rates were similar to
those of patients with initially resectable metastases. The survival rate of
N2 patients was significantly lower than those of N1 and N0 patients.
Conclusions: Simultaneous resection provides a safety profile and survival
rate similar to that of delayed resection. The N category allows for
prognostic estimation in metastatic colorectal patients.
Single access laparoscopic colorectal surgery: Lights and shadows
Authors: Pignata G. , Bracale U. , Mijatovic S. , Perna F. , Lazzara F. , Badessi F.
Published: November 2012

Introduction: To minimize the complications related to conventional multiport
laparoscopic surgery, the single access laparoscopic surgery has been
developed. Some results of case series and case-controlled studies are
supporting the feasibility and safety of Single Access Laparoscopic Colectomy
(SALC). Materials and Methods: Since January 2009 we performed all kind of
colorectal procedure by a single access laparoscopic approach. We began with
right colectomy that represent the only procedure in which we did not
reproduce the same surgical steps of multiport laparoscopic surgery. In
contrast, we reproduce the same surgical technique of multiport colorectal
resection during a left or rectal single access laparoscopic procedure as
well as total colectomy. Conclusion: About the transferability of SALC,
programs of training need to focus on safety and techniques. We believe that
only high laparoscopic skills surgeon can perform SALC. It?s mandatory to
evaluate outcomes and cost-effectiveness of SALC respect to multiport
laparoscopic colectomy using randomized trials.
Minor vs complete excision of pilonidal sinus: Early postoperative period
Authors: Petrovic Jelena , Dimitrijevic Ivan , Krivokapic Zoran
Published: November 2012

Pilonidal sinus arises in the natal cleft of the sacrococcigeal region either
as a cyst or as an abscess collection containing hair. It is predominantly a
condition of younger people. When presenting as an abscess it usually
requires surgical incision and drainage, or bursts spontaneously. In general,
there are various surgical approaches to this condition, from very simple to
complex ones. Each technique has its supporters and justifications. In the 3
years period, from 2009-2011, 110 treatments of the pilonidal disease were
performed on our department. Midline excision was performed in 75 (68.18%)
patients and the rest had marsupielisation done. The average discharge time
was 1.14 days. Failure to heal occurred in 15 patients (13.63%). During that
period we saw recurrence in 4 patients (3.63%). All the patients were coming
to our department for postoperative care. The shortest healing time was 4
weeks and longest 21 weeks. During the period may 2011-may 2012 we performed
17 less extensive excisions. All the patients were discharged from the clinic
within 23 hours and returned to their daily activities within 5 days. Healing
time varied from 2 weeks to 5 weeks. In only one patient with the extensive
excision healing time was 8 weeks. Although we had a short follow up period
of 11.11 months, we saw no recurrence yet. Our results show that simple
individual approach to every patients gives fastest and most comfortable
results.
Use of vacuum-assisted closure device in a disastrous form of abdominal sepsis and stoma site infection: Systematic review and report of a case
Authors: Popovic Milos , Barisic Goran , Markovic Velimir , Petrovic Jelena , Krivokapic Zoran
Published: November 2012

Use of Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC) for treatment of open abdomen has been
established predominantly in cases of severe abdominal trauma, resulting
with high percentage of primary fascial closure. The role of VAC technique
in cases of severe diffuse peritonitis is not definitely incorrigible.
However, in cases of severe complicated abdominal sepsis VAC come up as a
last resort.
Simultaneous laparoscopic pyloroplasty and ileocecal resection in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Schlöricke E. , Hoffmann M. , Zimmermann M. , Meyer K.F. , Laubert T. , Kleemann M. , Bruch H.P. , Hildebrand P.
Published: November 2012

Background: The initial manifestation of Crohn?s disease is often located
within the terminal ileum. Other portions of the G.I. tract may be affected,
however, as the disease involves the entire organ system. The disease often
progresses chronically in flares and remissions and involves all layers of
the intestinal wall, leading to strictures, stenosis and fistulas. These
complications should only be treated surgically when clinically relevant in
order to prevent acute exacerbations. Methods: Laparoscopic surgery offers
one the possibility to minimize surgical trauma with its very small incisions
and proper dissection through the correct anatomical layers with 10- fold
optic magnification. Results: Multifocal procedures can be carried out in the
same operation. We present the case of a 26-year-old female with terminal
ileum stenosis and gastric outlet obstruction, who underwent simultaneous
laparoscopic pyloroplasty and ileocecal resection. Discussion: Providing the
surgeon possesses the necessary expertise, complex laparoscopic simultaneous
procedures.
Graft copolymerization of methacrylic acid monomers onto polypropylene fibers
Authors: Mazhar Majid , Abdouss Majid , Shariatinia Zahra , Zargaran Mojdeh
Published: November 2012

In recent years, graft copolymerization has been widely used to insert
various functional groups onto polymers. In our study, methacrylic acid
monomers are grafted to polypropylene (PP) fibers to make them hydrophilic
while maintaining their mechanical properties. Experiments are designed based
on Taguchi?s method and influence of temperature, monomer concentration;
cross-linker concentration and time of reaction are investigated. Grafting of
methacrylic acid and divinyl benzene is investigated by FTIR spectra and
confirmed by SEM micrographs. Tensile strength and toughness of specimens are
measured and compared with raw fibers. Influence of grafting on the tensile
strength and toughness of fibers are measured and critical grafting degree to
maintain tensile strength and toughness of fibers is defined.
Pathogenicity of T. terrestris on maize seedlings
Authors: Levic Jelena , Petrovic Tijana , Stankovic Slavica , Ivanovic Dragica
Published: November 2012

Pathogenicity of P. terrestris was determined by the Knop?s medium slants
method in test tubes. Isolates originated from the roots of maize (Zea mays
L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense Pers.),
sorghum (Sorghum bicolour (L.) Moench.), garlic (Allium sativum L.), onion
(Allium cepa L.), barnyard millet (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P.Beauv.) and
green foxtail (Setaria viridis (L.) P.B.). A fragment of a fungal colony,
cultivated on PDA, was placed on the bottom of Knop?s medium slant in each
test tube and then sterilised a maize seed was placed 2 cm away from the
inoculum. After 21-day inoculation of seeds, the intensity of the development
of symptoms on maize seedlings was estimated. The reddish or dark pigment on
the root, mesocotyl and/or coleoptyl of seedlings was an indicator for the
infection by the fungus under in vitro conditions. Based on the pathogenicity
test, the isolates were classified into the following three groups: slightly
(3 isolates), moderately (6 isolates) and very pathogenic (6 isolates) to
maize seedlings. The obtained results show that P. terrestris, originating
from different hosts, can be a maize pathogen. These results can explain the
high frequency and high incidence of this fungus on maize roots in Serbia.
Multiresidue analysis of pesticides in soil by liquid-solid extraction procedure
Authors: Djurovic Rada , Djordjevic Tijana , Radivojevic Ljiljana , Santric Ljiljana , Gajic-Umiljendic Jelena
Published: November 2012

A multiresidue method for simultaneous determination of four pesticides
(diazinon, acetochlor, aldrine and carbofuran) belonging to different
pesticide groups, extracted from soil samples, is described. The method
presented is based on liquid-solid extraction (LSE) and determination of
pesticides, i.e. the pesticides were extracted by methanol- acetone mixture,
purified on florisil column and eluted by ethyl acetate-acetone mixture.
Optimization of the main parameters affecting the LSE procedure, such as the
choice of purification sorbent, as well as the elution solvent and its
volume, were investigated in details and optimized. Also, validation of the
proposed method was done. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was
used for detection and quantification of the pesticides studied. Relative
standard deviation (RSD) and recovery values for multiple analysis of soil
samples fortified with 30 ?g/kg of each pesticide were below 8% and higher
than 89%, respectively. Limits of detection (LOD) for all the compounds
studied were less than 4 ?g/kg.
Autonomous SEIG in a small wind power plant with voltage and frequency control
Authors: Benlamoudi Azzeddine , Abdessemed Rachid
Published: November 2012

This paper deals with the application of an autonomous Self-Excited Induction
Generator (SEIG) in a small wind power conversion system (WPCS). Such
conversion system has capability to supply power demand of the loads with
constant voltage and frequency, for which a power managing method is
proposed. Voltage Sourced Converter (VSC) along with Battery Energy Storage
System (BESS) is used to handle power flow between the SEIG and loads. The
proposed control scheme, using a single voltage closed-loop control, is found
to be suitable to regulate both voltage and frequency. The WPCS is modelled
in MATLAB/Simulink and Power System Block-set (PSB). Simulation results show
that Voltage Frequency Controller (VFC) has ability to keep the voltage and
frequency constant in spite of perturbations.
Calculating the required number of bits in the function of confidence level and error probability estimation
Authors: Mitic Dragan , Lebl Aleksandar , Markov Zarko
Published: November 2012

This paper proposes the calculation of the required number of bits
transmitted in the system, in order to achieve the desired level of
confidence. Proposed solution is based on the selected value for the bit
error probability, and statistical confidence levels. In addition, required
error probability for telecommunications protocols and data transfer
protocols is discussed, overview of the BER (Bit Error Ratio) testing
equipment performance is provided, and compromise of testing time in
relation to the statistical level of confidence depending on BER is
examined.
Primary pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
Authors: Sarac Sanja , Milic Rade , Zolotarevski Lidija , Acimovic Slobodan , Tomic Ilija , Plavec Goran
Published: November 2012

Introduction. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is an uncommon disease
characterized by the accumulation of surfactant proteins and phospholipids
within the alveolar spaces. Acquired disease can be idiopathic (primary) and
secondary. The prevalence of acquired pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is about
0.37 per 100,000 persons. Common symptoms are dyspnea and cough. Chest X-ray
shows bilateral perihilar infiltrates. Open-lung biopsy is the gold standard
for the diagnosis. Treatment includes whole-lung lavage, application of
granulocyte-macrophage colonystimulating factor and lung transplantation.
Case report. We reported a 51 year-old man with primary form of the disease.
It was the second case of this extremely rare disease in the past 30 years in
our clinic. The symptoms were longlasting dry cough, fever and physical
deterioration. Chest Xray revealed bilateral pulmonary infiltrates; computed
tomography showed patchy ground-glass opacification with interlobular
thickening. The diagnosis was established by open lung biopsy. Additional
tests were performed to exclude secondary form of the disease. Conclusion. We
presented a rare clinical entity with typical clinical features and clinical
and radiological course of the disease, in order to improve differential
diagnostic approach to patients with bilateral lung infiltrations. In
patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis timely diagnosis and adequate
treatment can improve a prognosis.