bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practice Tips for Measuring the Nuchal Translucency
Authors: Nisbet Debbie
Published: November 2008

In some countries, measurement of nuchal translucency (NT) is incorporated into national antenatal screening programmes to help detect pregnancies at increased risk of Down syndrome. Accurate measurement of the NT requires a specific technique. This article is an illustrated practical guide outlining the steps required for measuring the NT; it provides useful tips for improving operator technique and advises how to avoid common pitfalls. Although fetal nasal bone assessment does not currently form part of official Down syndrome screening programmes (in Australia or the UK), it is included here as debate about its usefulness continues.
Observations of MI Values During Neonatal Cardiac Ultrasound Scanning
Authors: Verma Prashant K.
Published: November 2008

Aim: The on-screen Mechanical Index (MI), was recorded from eight diagnostic ultrasound machines used for cardiac scanning of neonates. The objective of the study was to compare values of MI used in neonatal cardiac scanning with those recommended by the British Medical Ultrasound Society safety guidelines.

Methods: The eight scanners were based at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (STH), Sheffield Children's Hospitals NHS Trust (SCH) and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTH). Two methods of recording the MI value were used. At the Sheffield sites the on-screen safety index was obtained from archived patient studies saved on the Trust PACS. At the Leeds site the on-screen safety index was recorded from the scanner when it was switched on to its default neonatal or paediatric pre-sets with the appropriate transducer connected.

Results: Data from clinical examinations at the Sheffield sites show that on average the MI values, for cardiac scanning, in B-mode and colour/pulsed wave Doppler mode were 1·1±0·3 and 1·3±0·3 respectively. The maximum values of MI recorded during clinical cardiac examinations were 1·6 for B-mode and 1·7 for colour/pulsed wave Doppler mode. Data from the Leeds site recorded default MI values, using appropriate transducers with neonatal and paediatric presets. One scanner from the Leeds site defaulted to an MI value of 1·9 in colour/pulsed Doppler mode with a neonatal preset. All the MI values are well above BMUS guideline recommendations for neonates when lung tissue is present within the ultrasound beam.

Conclusions: The implication of these results is that neonates undergoing cardiac ultrasound examinations, were regularly exposed to MI values at least four to six times that recommended by BMUS guidelines (MI<0·3).
Prenatal Diagnosis of Smith–Lemli–Opitz Syndrome
Authors: Witters Ingrid , Moerman Philippe , Cannie Mieke , Catte Luc De , Fryns Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2008

Smith–Lemli–Opitz (SLO) syndrome is an autosomal recessive multiple congenital malformation syndrome due to mutations in the 7-DHCR gene. The presented boy was diagnosed prenatally with multiple congenital malformations and confirmed as SLO by autopsy and molecular diagnosis. Interestingly in this boy prenatal MRI revealed a dilated duodenum, pointing towards intestinal dysmotility which is common in SLO.
Complete eradication of human B-cell lymphoma xenografts using rituximab in combination with the immunocytokine L19-IL2
Authors: Schliemann Christoph , Palumbo Alessandro , Zuberbühler Kathrin , Villa Alessandra , Kaspar Manuela , Trachsel Eveline , Klapper Wolfram , Menssen Hans Dietrich , Neri Dario
Published: November 2008

The antibody-mediated delivery of therapeutic agents to sites of angiogenesis is an attractive strategy for anticancer therapy, but is largely unexplored in hematologic malignancies. In the present study, we show that the extra domain B (EDB) of fibronectin, a marker of angiogenesis, is expressed in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and that the human monoclonal anti-EDB antibody L19 can selectively localize to the lymphoma-associated subendothelial extracellular matrix. In vivo, the preferential accumulation of the antibody at the tumor site was confirmed by quantitative biodistribution analyses with radioiodinated antibody preparations. The fusion protein L19-IL2, which mediates the delivery of interleukin-2 (IL-2) to the neovasculature, displayed a superior antilymphoma activity compared with unconjugated IL-2 in localized and systemic xenograft models of NHL. When coadministered with rituximab, L19-IL2 induced complete remissions of established localized lymphomas and provided long-lasting protection from disseminated lymphoma. The combined use of rituximab and L19-IL2, which dramatically increases the infiltration of immune effector cells in lymphomas, may deserve clinical investigations, facilitated by the fact that L19-IL2 is currently being studied in phase II clinical trials in patients with solid tumors.
Standardization of terminology, definitions and outcome criteria in immune thrombocytopenic purpura of adults and children: report from an international working group
Authors: Rodeghiero Francesco , Stasi Roberto , Gernsheimer Terry , Michel Marc , Provan Drew , Arnold Donald M. , Bussel James B. , Cines Douglas B. , Chong Beng H. , Cooper Nichola , Godeau Bertrand , Lechner Klaus , Mazzucconi Maria Gabriella , McMillan Robert , Sanz Miguel A. , Imbach Paul , Blanchette Victor , Kühne Thomas , Ruggeri Marco , George James N.
Published: November 2008

Diagnosis and management of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) remain largely dependent on clinical expertise and observations more than on evidence derived from clinical trials of high scientific quality. One major obstacle to the implementation of such studies and in producing reliable meta-analyses of existing data is a lack of consensus on standardized critical definitions, outcome criteria, and terminology. Moreover, the demand for comparative clinical trials has dramatically increased since the introduction of new classes of therapeutic agents, such as thrombopoietin receptor agonists, and innovative treatment modalities, such as anti-CD 20 antibodies. To overcome the present heterogeneity, an International Working Group of recognized expert clinicians convened a 2-day structured meeting (the Vicenza Consensus Conference) to define standard terminology and definitions for primary ITP and its different phases and criteria for the grading of severity, and clinically meaningful outcomes and response. These consensus criteria and definitions could be used by investigational clinical trials or cohort studies. Adoption of these recommendations would serve to improve communication among investigators, to enhance comparability among clinical trials, to facilitate meta-analyses and development of therapeutic guidelines, and to provide a standardized framework for regulatory agencies.
Development of a three-dimensional scroll compressor
Authors: Sato H , Fujitani M , Kobayashi H , Mizuno H , Itoh T
Published: November 2008

Scroll compressor has been employed in various appliances due to its advantages such as high efficiency and low vibration. For the purpose of further performance improvement in scroll compressor, the authors have developed a new conceptual three-dimensional compression mechanism (three-dimensional scroll) by adding an axial compression to the conventional radial compression. By realizing three-dimensional compression, which has been impossible for the conventional scroll, higher efficiency, higher reliability, and smaller size are achieved. Since the three-dimensional scroll has steps in scroll tip and end plate, the key point of efficiency improvement in the three-dimensional scroll is to minimize the gas leakage in the steps. Through cylinder pressure measurements and visualization tests, characteristics of the leakage in the steps are obtained and the optimum clearance ranges are determined. Based on this, the authors have developed high efficiency, small size, and lightweight three-dimensional scroll compressor for commercial air-conditioner. The developed three-dimensional scroll compressor archived 35 per cent smaller size, 26 per cent lighter weight, and 5.5 per cent improvement of efficiency compared with the conventional one.
Performance analysis of reciprocating compressors through computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Pereira E L L , Deschamps C J , Ribas F A
Published: November 2008

An experimentally validated numerical analysis of reciprocating refrigeration compressors is presented. The finite-volume methodology is adopted to solve the flow field and a one-degree-of-freedom model is used to describe the valve dynamics. The variation of the computation domain, associated with the valve and piston displacements, is taken into account and the time-dependent flow field and the valve dynamics are coupled and solved simultaneously. The three-dimensional formulation considered in the analysis allowed the simulation of actual suction and discharge muffler geometries. Numerical results were validated with reference to experimental data for valve displacement and pressure in the suction and compression chambers obtained in a calorimeter facility. A study was carried out to identify the contributions of mufflers and valves to the compressor thermodynamic losses.
Recent Developments of Boryl Anions: Boron Analogues of Carbanion
Authors: Yamashita Makoto , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: November 2008

This account reviews the chemistry of “boryl anion.” Boryl anions can be classified with their metallic counterpart, such as Li, Mg, Cu, and Zn in a similar manner to the classification of carbanions. The early attempts to generate boryl anions by reductive dehalogenation of haloboranes with alkali metal or photolysis of tetraphenylborate compounds had no modern spectroscopic identification of the reactive “boryl anion.” Recent developments of base-stabilized boryl anion, base–BH2−M+ (base = NEt3 or PCy3, M=K or Li), and generation of borylcopper species, “pinBCuL,” have opened a new area of organoboron chemistry. Recently, we have synthesized a lithium salt of boryl anion, boryllithium, which reacted with electrophiles as a boron nucleophile. Based on the high reactivity of boryllithium, transmetallation to other metals enables synthesis of a series of borylmetals, such as borylmagnesium, borylcopper, and borylzinc species. All of these compounds were isolated and structurally characterized to have an sp2 boron atom. Reactivity with organic electrophiles could confirm that they behaved as boron nucleophiles.
Reactions and Mechanistic Studies of Rhenium-Catalyzed Insertion of α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds into a C–H Bond
Authors: Kuninobu Yoichiro , Nishina Yuta , Okaguchi Kayo , Shouho Makoto , Takai Kazuhiko
Published: November 2008

A rhenium complex, [ReBr(CO)3(thf)]2, catalyzes the insertion of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds into a C–H bond of aromatic compounds having nitrogen-containing directing groups. In this reaction, Re2(CO)10 can also be used as a catalyst. When imines are employed as the aromatic substrates, sequential cyclization proceeds and indene derivatives are obtained in good to excellent yields. This reactivity is in contrast to those of ruthenium and rhodium complexes, which are usually used as catalysts in the insertion reactions of unsaturated molecules into a C–H bond. Investigations on the reaction mechanism indicate that the rhenium catalyst promotes C–H bond activation of aromatic compounds, the insertion of α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds into a Re–C bond, and intramolecular nucleophilic cyclization followed by reductive elimination and the elimination of an amine.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of a Dinuclear Palladium(II) Complex with N,N',N'',N'''-Tetrakis(2-p-toluenesulfonamidoethyl)cyclam
Authors: Wada Shusaku , Kotera Takanori , Mikuriya Masahiro
Published: November 2008

Dinuclear palladium(II) complex with 1,4,8,11-tetrakis(2-p-toluenesulfonamidoethyl)-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane (H4tstaec), [Pd2(tstaec)], was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and IR and UV–vis spectroscopies. The crystal structures of H4tstaec and [Pd2(tstaec)] were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction method. In the former ligand, the cyclam ring moiety takes a trans IV conformation with the tosyl arms pointing away from each other, whereas each palladium atom is bound by two nitrogen atoms of the cyclam moiety and two nitrogen atoms of the tosyl arms with Pd···Pd distance of 5.617(1) Å intervening the trans IV cyclam ring in the latter complex. DFT calculations were performed based on these crystal structures.
Microsphere vs. Microbelt Morphology of Ionic Palladium(II) Complexes
Authors: Noh Tae Hwan , Chun In Sung , Lee Young-A , Ahn Sungho , Hong Jongki , Jung Ok-Sang
Published: November 2008

A series of palladium(II) complexes containing bis[(4-isonicotinoyloxy)phenyl]sulfide (L), [PdII(L)(tmen)]2X4 (tmen = N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethane-1,2-diamine; X=NO3 and ClO4) were prepared and characterized. Reaction of [Pd(tmen)](NO3)2 with L in a mixture of water and acetone affords microspheres whereas reaction of [Pd(tmen)](ClO4)2 with L produces microbelts. The solubility of the products is a significant factor for the formation of morphology. The spherical sizes can be controlled by the evaporation rate of solvents. An array of ≈300 nm and ≈4 μm bimodal spheres was carried out via sonication.
Preparation, Crystal Structures, and Properties of New Conjugated π-Electron Systems with 3-Guaiazulenyl and 4-(Dimethylamino)phenyl Groups
Authors: Takekuma Shin-ichi , Hori Seiki , Minematsu Toshie , Takekuma Hideko
Published: November 2008

Reaction of guaiazulene with 1,2-bis[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-1,2-ethanediol in methanol in the presence of hydrochloric acid at 60 °C for 3 h gives 1,1-bis[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-2-(3-guaiazulenyl)ethylene, in 81% yield, via pinacol rearrangement and further Wittig reaction of 3-formylguaiazulene with [4-(dimethylamino)benzyl]triphenylphosphonium bromide in ethanol containing NaOEt at 25 °C for 24 h under argon affords (E)-2-[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-1-(3-guaiazulenyl)ethylene in 12% yield. Crystal structures as well as spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of the products, with a view to comparative study, are reported. Moreover, reactions of the products with 2 equiv of tetracyanoethylene (TCNE) in benzene at 25 °C for 24 h under argon give 1,1,2,2,11,11,12,12-octacyano-3,3-bis[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-8-isopropyl-5,10-dimethyl-1,2,3,6,9,10a-hexahydro-6,9-ethanobenz[a]azulene and 1,1,2,2,11,11,12,12-octacyano-3-[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-8-isopropyl-5,10-dimethyl-1,2,3,6,9,10a-hexahydro-6,9-ethanobenz[a]azulene in 74 and 41% yields. A plausible reaction pathway for the formation of the unique products, possessing interesting structures, is submitted.
Electrochemical Oxidation of 4-Methylcatechol in the Presence of β-Diketones
Authors: Nematollahi Davood , Rafiee Mohammad , Khavasi Hamid Reza
Published: November 2008

Electrochemical oxidation of 4-methylcatechol (1) in the presence of, benzoylacetone (2), dibenzoylmethane (3), 3-hydroxy-1H-phenalen-1-one (4), acetylacetone (5), dimedone (6), and 2-acetylcyclohexanone (7) as nucleophiles has been studied in detail by cyclic voltammetry and controlled-potential coulometry. The results indicate that the electrochemically generated quinone participates in Michael addition reaction with 2–7 via various mechanisms to produce new organic compounds. Furthermore, our studies show that the structure of intermediates play a crucial role in product selectivity under controlled-potential conditions. Various types of products were also obtained through the selective oxidation at the surface of a carbon electrode in an undivided cell.
Eucalyptus Tar Pitch Substitution of Phenol in the Preparation of Novolak-Type Resins Cured with Hexamethylenetetramine
Authors: Pasa Vânya M D , Assis Rodrigo S , Bruns Roy E , dos-Santos Cláudio G
Published: November 2008

Wood tar pitch, sometimes referred to as biopitch, is the residue from the distillation of tar recovered during charcoal making processes. The biopitch from Eucalyptus tar, which has guaiacyl and syringyl units in its molecular structure, exhibits novolak behavior and this phenolic oligomer can be cured with hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA). In this work, mixtures of commercial phenolic resins and Eucalyptus tar pitch were cured and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, elemental and thermogravimetric analyses. Their acetone-insoluble contents were determined and their electrical properties were investigated. The effects of pitch and HMTA contents on phenolic resin properties were modelled using statistical techniques. The regions of optimum formulations were indicated. The results showed that pitch decreases the thermal stability and the acetone-insoluble content of the phenolic blends, whereas HMTA addition had an opposite effect. The statistical model applied indicated that, in terms of acetone-insoluble content, phenolic resin can be substituted for pitch up to a composition of 50 wt %. Electrical studies showed that pitch–phenolic blends have insulating properties.
Investigation and Validation of Wind Turbine Wake Models
Authors: Duckworth A. , Barthelmie R.J.
Published: November 2008

This article discusses the application of widely used, state of the art, wake models, focusing on the Ainslie [1], Katic [2] and Larsen [3] models, breaking these down and explaining the individual, integral components. Models used to predict the turbulence intensity within the wake are also explained. Measured data are subsequently used to validate these wake and turbulence models, showing acceptable results for the prediction of velocity deficit within the wake, wake width and wake shape. Results also highlight the validity of the analysed turbulence models. The paper describes the problems encountered when using measured data to validate wake models and concludes by outlining subsequent work which could be carried out to further validate these models.
Extrapolation of Wind Profiles Using Indirect Measures of Stability
Authors: Istchenko Rob , Turner Barry
Published: November 2008

The dependence of wind shear on boundary layer stability can be described using Monin-Obukhov similarity theory and modified logarithmic wind profiles. Typical measurements for wind resource assessment, however, are insufficient to assess stability. We show that useful, indirect inferences of stability are possible using measurements from typical instrumentation found on a meteorological tower installed for the purpose of wind resource assessment. Traditional power-law parameterizations, stratified by time of day and season, are often sufficient despite inter-day variations in stability. The effect of various wind speed extrapolation methods on wind energy estimates are demonstrated using measurements made during fall 2007 from a 50 m wind monitoring tower.
Wind Resource Assessment for the Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Buflasa Hanan Al , Infield David , Watson Simon , Thomson Murray
Published: November 2008

The geographical distribution of wind speed (the wind atlas) for the kingdom of Bahrain is presented, based on measured data and on calculations undertaken using WAsP,. The data used were recorded by the Meteorological Directorate at a weather station situated at Bahrain International Airport, taken on an hourly basis for a period of time extended for ten years. These data indicate an annual mean wind speed of 4.6 m/s at 10 m height and mean Weibull scale and shape parameters C and k of 5.2 m/s and 1.9 respectively. At a typical wind turbine hub height of sixty metres, these values are extrapolated to 6.9 m/s, 7.8 m/s and 1.8 respectively, which suggests that the area has a good wind resource. The wind atlas shows that several locations in the less populated central and southern regions of the main island of the archipelago of Bahrain are potentially suitable for wind energy production.
Ductility Characteristics of Partially Restrained Beam-To-Column Composite Connections in Concrete Filled Square Tubes
Authors: Park Suhee , Choi Sungmo , Park Youngwook , Kim Yosuk , Kim Jinho
Published: November 2008

This paper presents the development of an improved detail in partially restrained beam-to-column composite connections in concrete filled square tubes and the evaluation of its structural characteristics and behaviour under monotonic and cyclic loading. Studies for the bolted seat-angle connections of existing partially restrained composite connection (PR-CC) details have been conducted mostly on shallow beam-to-column connections. In case of deep beam-to-column connections, the fabrication becomes complicated because the sizes of the seat-angles are larger than the connections, and the number of bolts and welding length are increased. This study suggests a new detail of PR-CC which can be applied to concrete-filled tubular structures incorporating the effect of composite slabs and the performance for construction work. A welded bottom beam flange connection is proposed to enhance the capacity of the bottom of the connection and to improve ductility and fabrication. In addition, a reduced beam section (RBS) is adapted for the bottom beam flange to examine its effect on ductility. A seat-angle connection with penetrating bolts is also suggested and compared with the welded bottom beam flange connection. Both monotonic and cyclic loading tests are conducted on the five full scale specimens to compare and evaluate their ductility characteristics.
Seismic Performance of Guideway Sliding Isolator with Gap Springs for Precision Machinery
Authors: Yao George C. , Huang Wen-Chun , Lin Fan-Ru
Published: November 2008

The performance of gap springs in a guideway sliding isolator (GSI) system developed to protect precision machinery against seismic motion has been studied. A spring is initially distanced from the system by a gap, causing the isolation system to exhibit nonlinear performance once the gap is closed, reducing the chance of resonance. A full-scale shaking table test of a 22-ton specimen and a numerical model simulation in SAP2000 have been performed. The study shows that springs possessing the appropriate gaps are more effective in controlling relative displacements than is a pure friction system. The optimal gap for a system subjected to far-field earthquakes was found to be 5mm. In addition, supplemental viscous damping of less than 15% of the critical damping had no significant effect on the GSI system far-field seismic response, but it did reduce the relative displacements of the system for near-fault seismic excitations.
Transmission of Light through Birefringent and Optically Active Media: the Poincaré Sphere
Authors: Jerrard H. G.
Published: November 2008

The parameters necessary to define an elliptically polarized vibration, namely the azimuth, the shape, and the sense of rotation of the ellipse described by the light vector can be represented geometrically by a point on a sphere. The method was suggested by Poincaré in 1892. The theory of the Poincaré sphere is presented in detail, and its application to tracing the passage of light through doubly refracting and optically active media fully illustrated. A simple model, designed on the principles involved, is described: it is suitable for instruction and demonstration.
Measurement of Very Low Creep Strains: A Review
Authors: Kloc Luboš , Mareček Petr
Published: November 2008

Various experimental techniques using mechanical springs for high strain sensitivity creep testing are described. A theory of stress and strain using these techniques is briefly summarized. Problems and advantages of the helicoid spring specimen technique are also analyzed. The helicoid spring specimen technique provides high efficiency for low-stress creep experiments in the self-loaded mode, while the external load mode allows extraordinary strain sensitivity. A new machine for conducting high-sensitivity torsion creep tests is presented together with some examples of creep curves obtained by the technique. The machine was designed to enable high sensitivity creep tests of inherently brittle materials such as intermetallics and ceramics.
Instrumented Impact Tests: Effects of Machine Variables and Specimen Position
Authors: Lucon Enrico , McCowan Chris N. , Santoyo Raymond L.
Published: November 2008

An investigation has been conducted on the influence of impact machine variables and specimen positioning on characteristic forces and absorbed energies from instrumented Charpy tests. Brittle and ductile fracture behavior has been investigated by testing NIST reference samples of low-, high-, and super-high-energy levels. Test machine variables included tightness of foundation, anvil and striker bolts, and the position of the center of percussion with respect to the center of strike. For specimen positioning, we tested samples that had been moved away or sideways with respect to the anvils. In order to assess the influence of the various factors, we compared mean values in the reference (“unaltered”) and “altered” conditions; for machine variables, t-test analyses were also performed in order to evaluate the statistical significance of the observed differences. Our results indicate that the only circumstance which resulted in variations larger than 5 % for both brittle and ductile specimens is when the sample is not in contact with the anvils. This should be taken into account in future revisions of instrumented Charpy test standards.
Impaired islet turnover in human donor pancreata with aging
Authors: Reers Christina , Erbel Saskia , Esposito Irene , Schmied Bruno , Büchler Markus W , Nawroth Peter P , Ritzel Robert A
Published: November 2008

Objective

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus escalates with aging although β-cell mass, a primary parameter of β-cell function, is subject to compensatory regulation. So far it is unclear whether the proliferative capacity of pancreatic islets is restricted by senescence.

Materials and methods

Human pancreatic tissue from n=20 non-diabetic organ donors with a mean age of 50.2±3.5 years (range 7–66 years) and mean body mass index of 25.7±0.9 kg/m2 (17.2–33.1 kg/m2) was morphometrically analyzed to determine β-cell volume, β-cell replication, β-cell apoptosis, islet neogenesis, and pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX-1) expression.

Results

Relative β-cell volume in human pancreata (mean 2.3±0.2%) remains constant with aging (r=0.26, P=ns). β-cell replication (r=0.71, P=0.0004) decreases age-dependently, while β-cell apoptosis does not change significantly (r=0.42, P=0.08). Concomitantly, PDX-1 expression is downregulated with age in human pancreatic tissue (r=0.65, P=0.002). The rate of islet neogenesis is not affected by aging (r=0.13, P=ns).

Conclusions

In non-diabetic humans, aging is linked with impaired islet turnover possibly due to reduced PDX-1 expression. As β-cell replication is considered to be the main mechanism responsible for β-cell regeneration, these changes restrict the flexibility of the aging human pancreas to adapt to changing demands for insulin secretion and increase the risk for the development of diabetes mellitus in older subjects.
Primary adenocarcinoma of the rectovaginal septum without associated endometriosis
Authors: Langmár Zoltán , Harsányi László , Székely Eszter , Járay Balázs , Csömör Sándor , Kazy Zoltán
Published: November 2008

A rectovaginalis sövény elsődleges adenocarcinomája igen ritka kórkép, amely az esetek jelentős részében endometriosis talaján keletkezik. A szerzők egy 68 éves, sikeresen kezelt páciens esetét ismertetik, akinél a rectovaginalis septum adenocarcinomája nem társult endometriosis egyidejű fennállásával. A diagnosztikában és a kezelésben eddig alkalmazott eljárásokat ismertetik, kiemelve a korai diagnózis nehézségét és az elsődleges sebészi ellátás szerepét.
Severe acute pancreatitis in intensive care in 2008 – experts review
Authors: Darvas Katalin , Futó Judit , Ökrös Ilona , Gondos Tibor , Csomós Ákos , Kupcsulik Péter
Published: November 2008

Az akut pancreatitis dinamikusan változó, gyakran progresszív kórkép, amelynek 14–20%-a az intenzív terápiás ellátást igénylő súlyos heveny hasnyálmirigy-gyulladás csoportjába tartozik, az akutan vagy több fázisban, elhúzódóan kialakuló többszervi elégtelenség, illetve többszervi diszfunkció miatt. Szisztémás irodalomkereséssel áttekintettük az elmúlt öt évben e tárgykörben megjelent közleményeket. A prognózis felállításában elsősorban a szisztémás gyulladásos válaszreakciónak, a többszervi elégtelenségnek és a többszervi diszfunkciónak van szerepe, amelyre az állapotfelmérő skálák alkalmasak (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation, Glasgow Prognostic Index, Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment, Multi Organ Dysfunction Syndrome Scale, Ranson Scale). Ezek mellett a klinikai jeleknek [életkor, társbetegség(ek), tudatzavar, elhízás] és a laboratóriumi vizsgálatoknak (szérumamiláz, -lipáz, C-reaktív protein, -prokalcitonin, -kreatinin, karbamid-nitrogén, -kalcium) fontos kiegészítő prognosztikai jelentősége van. A korai szervi elégtelenség fennállásával növekszik a késői lokális szövődmények és a halálozás aránya. Az intenzív osztályos kezelés lehetővé teszi a megfelelő klinikai észlelés és eszközös monitorozás mellett a szövődmények korai felismerését és ennek alapján a célzott terápia bevezetését. A kezelés célja a szisztémás gyulladásos válaszreakció, a többszervi elégtelenség és diszfunkció progressziójának gátlása és a szervezet kompenzatorikus gyulladásellenes válaszreakciójának beindítása. A pancreas exokrin működésének csökkentése a teljes per os táplálás 24–48 órás megszüntetésével javasolt, a proteázgátlók hatásossága vitatott. Lényeges a szervi elégtelenségek korai felismerése és kezelése, valamint az intravascularis volumen rendezése, fenntartása, a folyadékresuscitatio, ezzel a stabil hemodinamika biztosítása és a mikrocirkuláció javítása. Alapvető az adekvát oxigenizáció fenntartása, korai oxigénadagolás, szükség esetén korai intenzív lélegeztetés bevezetése, emellett az elektrolit- (szérumkalcium) és sav-bázis, valamint cukorháztartás szoros kontrollja, illetve a megfelelő fájdalomcsillapítás (szisztémás, epiduralis). A mesterséges táplálás kulcspontja a korai enteralis táplálás és immunonutríció. Az inflammációs mediátor etiológiai szerepének ismeretében a kezelésben szerepet kap a gyulladásos reakció csökkentése és a koagulációs kaszkád modulációja (aktivált protein C). A komplex terápia lényeges része megfelelő javallat alapján az aktivált enzimek és toxinok eltávolítása (hemofiltráció, plazmaferézis) és az antimikrobás profilaxis, illetve kezelés, valamint a thromboembolia-profilaxis. Az akut fázisban szükségessé válhat a megnövekedett intraabdominalis nyomás csökkentése. Intenzív protokoll alkalmazásával és interdiszciplináris együttműködéssel a súlyos heveny hasnyálmirigy mortalitása 30%-ról 10%-ra csökkenthető.
The history, ingredients and effects of energy drinks
Authors: Grósz Andor , Szatmári Ákos
Published: November 2008

Az energiaitalok felvevőpiaca, fogyasztásuk mértéke évről évre nő, ám kevesen vannak tisztában azok összetevőivel, valós élettani hatásaikkal. Meglehetősen szegényes a rendelkezésre álló, a témával érdemben foglalkozó publikációk száma is. A jelen közlemény rövid történeti áttekintés után ismerteti az energiaitalok fő alkotóelemeit, összehasonlításképpen felsorol néhány Magyarországon és külföldön kapható terméket, továbbá ismerteti a humán szervezetre kifejtett fizikális és mentális hatásaikat. A szerzők a közlemény végén megfogalmazzák az energiaitalok felhasználási korlátait is.
Uncoupling of liquid and solid retention times in anaerobic digestion of catering wastes
Authors: Climenhaga M. A. , Banks C. J.
Published: November 2008

Source-separated food wastes collected from a university campus catering facility were processed in bench-scale anaerobic digesters. The feedstock contained a varied mix of fruits, vegetables, meats and fried foods. Two modes of digestion were compared. The first was hydraulic flush (HF) mode, in which liquids were flushed through the reactor on a retention time of 25 days while solids were maintained on an extended retention time of over 150 days. The converse was a solids wastage (SW) mode, in which liquid retention time was over 150 days, and solids were wasted to maintain a retention time of 25 days. SW reactors exhibited methanogenic failure after approximately 45 days. HF reactors, in contrast, maintained stable digestion for a period of 100 days, and were robust enough to recover from a thermal shock applied over a three-day period in which the temperature was increased from 35°C to 50°C between days 105–108 of the experiment. Stable operation was regained by day 139 and continued until the end of the run on day 150.
Case study: the characteristics of the biodegradable waste for the anaerobic digestion plant in Lisbon area
Authors: Vaz F. , Torres A. , Correia C. Neiva
Published: November 2008

Taking into account the physical-chemical characteristics of the SC-OFMSW processed at Valorsul's anaerobic digestion plant, the influence of seasonal effects was studied. The waste presents a good quality, with a putrescible content of around 90%. In terms of chemical characteristics, the waste composition is similar to the one referred in the literature. The results show that seasonal variations seem not to affect the SC-OFMSW characteristics. The waste is very soluble and for that reason the solids content in the digester is low (TS in the digestor is 2.8%). The production of biogas is higher than the one predicted in the design operational parameters. Consequently, smaller quantities of compost are produced.
Sustainable wastewater treatment of temporary events: the Dranouter Music Festival case study
Authors: Van Hulle S. W. H. , Audenaert W. , Decostere B. , Hogie J. , Dejans P.
Published: November 2008

Music festivals and other temporary events, such as bicycle races, lay a heavy burden on the surrounding environment. Treatment of the wastewater originating from such events is necessary if no municipal treatment plant is available. This study demonstrated that activated carbon is a performant technique for the treatment of wastewaters originating from these temporary events. Freundlich isotherms and maximum operational linear velocity (6 m/h) were determined on a lab-scale set-up. A pilot-scale set up was used to treat part (5%) of the total volume of the Dranouter Music Festival shower wastewater. On average 90% removal of COD and suspended solids concentration was obtained. Application of the activated carbon filter resulted in the fact that the local discharge limits were met without operational problems.
Coupled photo-Fenton–biological system: effect of the Fenton parameters such as residual H2O2, Fe2 +  and pH on the efficiency of biological process
Authors: Mosteo Rosa , Gumy Damien , Pulgarin Cesar
Published: November 2008

The aim of this research work is to evaluate the performance of packed-bed bioreactors under typical conditions of photo-Fenton treatment (residual iron, residual hydrogen peroxide, acidic pH). The target pollutant selected was 4-Chlorophenol which is included in the list of Priority Substances (Decision No 2455/2001/EC) in the field of water policy and amending Directive 2000/60/EC. It was found that the biological process operated correctly during eight days when the pH was in the range of 3.5–7. In the same way, the presence of hydrogen peroxide in similar concentrations to that used in the photo-Fenton process was not negative on the biological activity. On the other hand, the presence of residual iron in the biological treatment could not be observed as a consequence of the optimal dosage used for the photo-Fenton treatment. The iron dosage is still low enough to ensure non-inhibitory effects. The results obtained in this study can provide a practical knowledge for a real application.
Struvite formation, analytical methods and effects of pH and Ca2 +
Authors: Hao X.-D. , Wang C.-C. , Lan L. , van Loosdrecht M. C. M.
Published: November 2008

Struvite formation is mainly controlled by concentrations of Mg2 + , NH4+ and PO43 + , pH, temperature, and other ions like Ca2 + . Experiments evaluating the effects of pH and Ca2 +  on struvite formation indicated that XRD is only a qualitative method to analyze the struvite content in precipitating compounds, which was also reflected in microscopic images. The element analyses preceded by a dissolution method were introduced to quantitatively determine the struvite content and were shown to be an efficient enough method. Based on element analyses, the struvite content could be calculated according to the N content in the precipitations, based on the molar ratios (1:1:1) of Mg, N and P in pure struvite (MgNH4PO4·6H2O). It was found that the optimal pH ranges for the struvite content >90% were respectively at 7.5 ∼ 9.0 with ultra pure water as solute and at 7.0 ∼ 7.5 with tap water (mainly consisting of ground water) as solute. Applying a pH > 8.0 in real wastewater containing Ca2 +  might result in impure struvite contents in the precipitate due to the effect of Ca2 + .
Is the Treasury Impotent?
Authors: Mulligan Casey B
Published: November 2008

The U.S. Treasury has decided to spend some of its $700 billion authority  $250 billion to start  to purchase equity in struggling banks. Casey Mulligan of the University of Chicago argues that this will not have the sought-after effect, and more likely it will have no effect at all.
Gross Placental Structure in a Low-Risk Population of Singleton, Term, First-Born Infants
Authors: Coall David A. , Charles Adrian K. , Salafia Carolyn M.
Published: November 2008

Suboptimal fetal growth has been associated with an increased risk of adult disease, which may be exacerbated by an increased placental weight–to–fetal weight ratio. Placental weight is a summary measure of placental growth and development throughout pregnancy. However, measures of placental structure, including the chorionic disk surface area and thickness and eccentricity of the umbilical cord insertion, have been shown to account for additional variance in birth weight beyond that explained by placental weight. Little is known of the variability of these placental parameters in low-risk populations; their association with maternal, pregnancy, and neonatal characteristics; and the agreement between manual and digital measures. This study used manual and digital image analysis techniques to examine gross placental anatomy in 513 low-risk, singleton, term, first-born infants. Parametric methods compared groups and examined relationships among variables. Maternal birth weight, prepregnancy weight, and body mass index were associated with increased placental and birth weight (all P < 0.005), but only maternal birth weight was associated with increased placental surface area ( P < 0.0005) and thickness ( P = 0.005). Smoking during pregnancy reduced birth weight and increased the eccentricity of umbilical cord insertion ( P = 0.012 and 0.034, respectively). The variability in these placental parameters was consistently lower than that reported in the literature, and correlations between digital and manual measurements were reasonable ( r = .87–.71). Detailed analyses of gross placental structure can provide biologically relevant information regarding placental growth and development and, potentially, their consequences.
Exergy of nuclear radiation — a quantum statistical thermodynamics approach
Authors: Badescu Viorel
Published: November 2008

The exergy of nuclear radiation is evaluated by using a simple quantum statistical thermodynamic approach. Only radiation particles with non-zero rest mass are considered (i.e. protons, neutrons, alpha and beta particles). The exergy and the exergy flux involve efficiency-like factors affecting the internal energy and the energy flux, respectively. These factors are generally different from both the usual Carnot factor and the Petela-Landsberg-Press factor that appears in the exergy of blackbody radiation. The efficiency-like factors are higher in the case of charged rather than neutral particles and in the case of enclosed rather than free radiation. The results are compared with those obtained previously by using a classical thermodynamic theory.
Effect of fluorination of molecular rigid core in liquid crystal biphenyl benzoate based homologous series
Authors: Morawiak P. , Piecek W. , Żurowska M. , Perkowski P. , Raszewski Z. , Dąbrowski R. , Czupryński K. , Sun X.W.
Published: November 2008

Liquid crystalline perfluorinated biphenyl benzoates were synthesized and investigated. A highly tilted, neat orthoconic smectic antiferroelectric phase was observed. A homologous series of compounds without and with a single fluorine atom substituted at different positions of a molecular rigid core was investigated by standard methods. Influence of fluorine substitution on physical properties of antiferroelectric smectic phase was discussed as well as influence of fluorination on molecular dipole moment orientation and its value were presented. Decrease in rotational viscosity as a result of fluorine substitution within a molecular rigid core was ascribed to changes of molecular packing.
Molecular Characterization of Hemophilia a in Southeast Bulgaria
Authors: Sukarova Stefanovska E , Tchakarova P , Petkov G , Efremov G
Published: November 2008

Molecular Characterization of Hemophilia a in Southeast Bulgaria

The results of molecular characterization of Hemophilia A in 50 patients from Southeast Bulgaria are presented. Southern blot analysis for the detection of inversions in intron 22, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) or de-naturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) for screening of the coding sequences of the Factor VIII (FVIII) gene were used. A molecular defect was found in 35 (70%), the most frequent being an inversion in intron 22, found in 19 (38%) patients; an intron 1 inversion was not detected. In one severely affected patient, an Alu insert was found, which disrupted exon 14 at codon 1224. Nucleotide substitutions were found in 15 (30%) patients, the most frequent being an Arg531→Cys missense mutation in exon 11. The same nonsense mutation (codon -5,CGA>TGA) was found in two patients with a severe phenotype. Seven missense mutations (Asn90→Thr, Arg 372→His, Glu456→Val, Tyr473→His, Arg1689→ Cys, Arg2159→Cys and Arg2163→His) were detected in isolated families. Two of these (Asn90→Thr and Glu456→ Val) are being reported for the first time.
Introduction: Is There a Doctor in the House? Medicine and the Making of Modern Drama
Authors: Garner Stanton B.
Published: November 2008

While the role of medicine in early modern theatre has been studied extensively in recent years, little attention has been paid to the intersections of theatre and medicine in modern drama. The second half of the nineteenth century and the first quarter of the twentieth witnessed innovations in both fields, as a self-styled “modern” theatre asserted itself against the conventions of an earlier period, and medical science claimed new authority as part of the emerging network of modern disciplines. One impediment to recognizing the role of the medical in modern drama has been the prominence of realism within this tradition. Because of realism's investment in the ideology of the visible, the interior landscape of disease is consigned to one of its many offstage realms, while the theatrical use of technological devices by which this realm might be disclosed to the audience – image and sound projection, X-ray imaging, and so on – are precluded from strictly illusionistic theatre. But realist (and naturalist) theatre is more deeply implicated in medical ways of seeing than its representational limitations suggest. Because of the tensions within realism between illusionism and actuality, realism is uniquely poised to reveal the somatic body in its normal and pathological states and in its physiological interaction with its environment. The many doctors who people modern drama are threshold figures who negotiate the social visibility of illness, demarcate the line between normal and pathological, and often represent theories and disciplinary ideologies that construct the human in medical terms. By modelling various forms of scientific and medical observation, theatrical doctors also direct attention to the complex symptomology of modern drama, in which the boundary between the body's surface and interior becomes the site of spectatorial interpretive operations.
Strindberg as Vivisector: Physiology, Pathology, and Anti-Mimesis inThe FatherandMiss Julie
Authors: Holzapfel Amy Strahler
Published: November 2008

This essay explores how Swedish dramatist August Strindberg employed the idea of vivisection – dissection of live animals and, in rare cases, humans – as a trope within The Father and Miss Julie. Throughout his early career, Strindberg played the role of vivisector in order to associate himself with ongoing experimentation in modern medical science as practised by such pioneering scientists as Théodule Ribot, Claude Bernard, and Henry Maudsley. In his effort to vivisect his characters, Strindberg sought to pierce through external surfaces into uncharted physiological and metaphysical terrains that would reveal individual pathologies. The act of opening up his dramatic subjects though theatrical strategies allowed him to engage a wider field of medical discourses for understanding the somatic body. Thus, through his dramatic vivisections, Strindberg moved beyond the observational and objective strategies of naturalism to create instead what he famously termed the art of “greater naturalism,” a dramatic technique that strove to see beyond the everyday. In countering his naturalist colleagues in the theatre, such as Émile Zola and André Antoine, Strindberg effectively used vivisection to question observational technique and, in so doing, to destabilize the very foundation of theatrical representation: mimesis.
Investigation of the Frequency and Force of Chest Vibration Performed by Physiotherapists
Authors: Li S.K. , Silva Y.R.
Published: November 2008

Purpose: To investigate the frequency and force of chest vibration as applied by 18 physiotherapists working in a teaching hospital.

Method: Chest vibration was applied to a healthy adult male lying supine on a plinth with seven mounted sensors measuring frequency and force, during three test conditions: (1) directly on the chest, (2) on the chest through a layer of sheet, and (3) on the chest through a layer of towelling. The influence of gender and current practice area (physiotherapists working in cardiopulmonary areas [cardiopulmonary physiotherapists] and physiotherapists who presently did not work in the cardiopulmonary area, but had treated cardiopulmonary patients within the last year [general practice physiotherapists]) on the frequency and force of chest vibrations was examined.

Results: Physiotherapists demonstrated a mean frequency of 5.7, 5.3, and 5 Hz and a mean maximum force of 272.78, 273.47, and 271.13 N for conditions 1, 2, and 3 respectively. There were no significant differences in the frequency or forces generated by vibration between cardiopulmonary and general practice physiotherapists, between genders, or among the three test conditions.

Conclusions: Vibration frequency was lower and force higher than previously recorded. Force may vary depending on the patient. The addition of a sheet or towel did not affect the force or frequency of vibration compared to vibration performed directly on the chest.