bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CLINICAL STUDY OF ADAPTIVE PROSTATE BRACHYTHERAPY WITH I-125 IMPLANTS BASED ON RADIOLOGICAL FINDINGS. RESULTS ON EARLY AND LATE TOXICITY AND ONGOING CHALLENGES
Authors: Ivanauskas Andrius , Aleknavičius Eduardas , Janulionis Ernestas , Burneckis Arvydas , Letautienė Simona , Ulys Albertas , Trakymas Mantas
Published: January 2015

Introduction. It’s about three decades when prostate brachytherapy with radioactive implants has been performed in cancer treatment practice. The transrectal ultrasound guidance let this method to develop and to become more and more usable. According ESTRO/EAU/EORTC recommendations – dose to the target (prostate) must be 145 Gy or higher . It is essencial condition to reach good treatment results. Consolidation of various MRI regimes (T2, MRI diffusion, perfusion, spectroscopy) can give us this information ,which nor other method can. Because of this we can use multiparametrical MRI not for only diagnostic but also brachytherapy planning purposes. We define adaptive radiotherapy or brachytherapy as radiation tumour treatment, when radiation dose is delivered to the exact tumour (focal therapy) or when there are several volumes with different radiation doses. According to the literature – prostate brachytherapy with I-125 implant is not part of adaptive prostate treatment protocols, but technically is possible and could be an ideal method of adaptive prostate cancer treatment.
RADIOFREQUENCY CATHETER ABLATION FOR CARDIAC ARRHYTHMIAS IN LITHUANIA: THE INCIDENCE AND TRENDS
Authors: Gružienė Aldona , Vaitiekaitis Gintautas , Vitkus Aleksandras , Lekas Raimundas , Kazakevičius Tomas , Kirkutis Algimantas , Noreika Algis , Skaudickas Darijus , Vasiliauskas Donatas , Pečiulytė Greta
Published: January 2015

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is minimally invasive treatment based on a thermal tissue destruction. Having reviewed the application of RFA method in a global context, we can state that it is widely used modern procedure in many economically developed countries. In many cases, RFA is qualified as effective, safe and economically profitable. There is a wide spectrum of clinical applications of RFA that cover diverse fields of medicine. RFA application in cardiology has become markedly significant. In 1976, RFA was introduced into clinical practice as an innovative management of cardiac arrhythmias. The developement of nonsurgical minimally invasive cardiac arrhythmias treatment by radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) procedure is greatly associated with evolution of cardiac surgery in general and the establishment of cardiac centers. Era of Lithuanian cardiac surgery had begun in 1960‘s, when the first cardiac center in Lithuania was established. Currently, three cardiac centers are functioning in Lithuania. Arrhytmias treatment by RFCA was introduced into Lithuanian clinical practice in the mentioned cardiac centers where it is performed only there up to now. Regarding the incidence of performed RFCAs for the arrhythmias (total of 3942 RFCAs over the fiveyear period between 2007 and 2011), this treatment method can be defined as a routine procedure in the cardiac centers of Lithuania. There was showed an upward trend in the number of performed RFCA procedures for arrhythmias over the last quinquennium in Lithuania, as the performance has grown by 3.75% for five consecutive years from 2007 and 2011, suggesting that this treatment method may become more and more popular in the future clinical practice.
THE BALNEOTHERAPY LINKS WITH SEAFARERS HEALTH IN RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL
Authors: Rapolienė Lolita , Razbadauskas Artūras , Sąlyga Jonas , Petrauskas Sigitas , Martinkėnas Arvydas
Published: January 2015

Study objective: to evaluate the impact of new origin high salinity geothermal water for reinforcing the comprehensive health of seamen and explore the safety profile of water. Methods. 180 seamen were randomized into three groups: geothermal (65) which has got 108 g/l salinity geothermal water bath for 2 weeks daily five times a week, music group (50) which has received music therapy at home, 65 participants have got no treatment. Outcomes measures: systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart and breathing rate, skin temperature, fingertip-floor distance, joint mobility failures, mood scale, VAS pain scale, 5-point Likert‘s well-being scale and cognitive failures questionnaire (CFQ). Safety was assessed for effects on the cardiopulmonary system and the side effects. The statistical analysis of the data was performed by using the SPSS21 software package. Results: after the 2 weeks in geothermal group reduced blood pressure, heart and breathing rate (p0.001); pain (p0.001), skin temperature (p0.05), improved spine (p 0.05) and joint mobility (p 0.001), general well-being (p0.001), mood (p0.001) and cognitive functions (p=0.001) were observed. In the music therapy group reduced breathing rate (p0.01), pain (p0.05) and improved general well-being (p0.01) were observed. Adverse events were rare in both groups. No significant changes were observed in the control group. Conclusions: the balneotherapy using very high salinity geothermal waters has multiple health-enhancing effects and is safe for seamen.
RANKOS MOTORINĖS FUNKCIJOS POKYČIAI, TAIKANT VEIDRODŽIO TERAPIJĄ PACIENTAMS, PERSIRGUSIEMS GALVOS SMEGENŲ INSULTU
Authors: Baltaduonienė Daiva , Karsokaitė Neringa
Published: January 2015

Viršutinė galūnė yra labai svarbi daugumai kasdieninių veiklų ir esami sutrikimai po insulto gali ženkliai paveikti dalyvavimą daugumoje užduočių/ veiklų. Todėl labai svarbu taikyti visas galimas gydymo metodikas, kurios žmogui padėtų grįžti į visavertį gyvenimą. Viena iš naujų gydymo metodikų yra veidrodžio terapija. Ši terapija su įprastine reabilitacija po insulto pagerina viršutinių galūnių motoriką, judesių amplitudę, atliekamų judesių greitį ir tikslumą bei plaštakos judesių miklumą. Darbo naujumas: rankos funkcijos lavinimui pasirinkta veidrodžio terapija. Darbo tikslas yra įvertinti rankos motorinės funkcijos pokyčius, taikant veidrodžio terapiją pacientams, persirgusiems galvos smegenų insultu. Tyrime dalyvavo 16 moterų ir 4 vyrai. Tiriamųjų amžiaus vidurkis buvo 72,2 metai. Pacientai reabilitacijos pradžioje ir pabaigoje ergoterapeuto buvo tiriami naudojant: funkcinio nepriklausomumo testą (FNT), dinamometrą, monometrą, goniometrą, Jebsen – Taylor rankos funkcijos testą. Tiriamųjų, persirgusių galvos smegenų insultu, funkcinės būklės vertinimas ergoterapijos pradžioje buvo 83,3 balo, o pabaigoje – 106,1 balo. Jebsen – Taylor pažeistosios rankos funkcijos testo balų pokytis buvo 6,5 balo. Pažeistosios plaštakos suspaudimo jėgos vidurkių pokytis prieš ergoterapiją buvo 8,7 kg, o po ergoterapijos - 14,6 kg. Pažeistosios plaštakos pirštų suspaudimo jėgos vidurkių pokyčiai po ergoterapijos - „Rakto“ suspaudimo jėga padidėjo 1,4 kg± 0,2 kg, I-II pirštų suspaudimo jėga - 1,6 kg± 0,2 kg bei I-II-III pirštų suspaudimo jėgos pokytis – net 1,9 kg± 0,3 kg kg. Tyrime gauti duomenys statistiškai reikšmingi (p0,05). Apibendrinus gautus duomenis nustatyta, kad taikant veidrodžio terapiją, asmenims, persirgusiems galvos smegenų insultu, matomas ryškus pažeistosios plaštakos raumenų jėgos, pirštų suspaudimo jėgos bei riešo ir pirštų sąnarių judesių amplitudžių bei savarankiškumo pagerėjimas.
BENDROSIOS PRAKTIKOS SLAUGOS STUDIJŲ STUDENTŲ AKTYVAUS ĮSITRAUKIMO Į SAVARANKIŠKŲ DARBŲ RENGIMĄ PRIELAIDOS
Authors: Smaidžiūnienė Dalė , Rastenienė Vilma
Published: January 2015

Pagrindinis mokymo institucijų, rengiančių slaugos specialistus uždavinys – rengti aukštos kvalifikacijos slaugos specialistus, atitinkančius Europos Sąjungos ir šalies bei regiono darbo rinkos poreikius. Šiuolaikinio mokymo proceso tikslas yra gebėjimas savarankiškai ieškoti žinių, jas kritiškai vertinti, sisteminti, gebėti taikyti profesinėje veikloje. Tyrimo tikslas - atskleisti bendrosios praktikos slaugos studijų programos studentų požiūrį į savarankiškų darbų edukacinius, organizacinius aspektus bei išryškinti veiksnius, įgalinančius studentus aktyviai įsitraukti į savarankiškų darbų rengimą, siekiant reikiamų profesinių žinių. Tyrimas atskleidė edukacinius aspektus, motyvuojančius studentus aktyviai įsitraukti į savarankiškų darbų rengimą: savarankiško darbo sąsajos su būsima profesija, parama studentui, savarankiškų darbų užduočių integracija tarpdisciplininiu požiūriu, pagalba pasirenkant savarankiško darbo temą, lankstus dėstytojo požiūris į savarankiško darbo temos, grupės pasirinkimą, grįžtamojo ryšio suteikimas. Dėstytojai studijų eigoje turėtų didesnį dėmesį skirti savarankiško darbo atlikimo eigai, komunikacijai su studentu, studentų grupėmis, atliekant grupinį savarankišką darbą, bendradarbiauti sprendžiant studentams aktualius klausimus.
PRIEŠOPERACINIO NERIMO RAIŠKA IR JO MAŽINIMO GALIMYBĖS
Authors: Piščalkienė Viktorija , Stasiūnaitienė Eglė
Published: January 2015

Straipsnyje analizuojama priešoperacinio nerimo raiškos ir jo mažinimo galimybių problematika. Stabili pacientų emocinė būklė, pakankamas pacientų informuotumas yra siejamas su sklandžiu pooperaciniu laikotarpiu. Tyrimo metodai: mokslinės literatūros analizė; statistinė duomenų analizė, naudojant SPSS 21 (aprašomoji statistika, vidurkių palyginimo T testas, Anova testas). Tyrimui atlikti buvo naudojama anketinė apklausa raštu. Tyrimo rezultatai. Beveik pusė respondentų priešoperacinį nerimą vertino gan aukštais balais. Didžiausią nerimą jaučia asmenys, kuriems operacija atliekama pirmą kartą Nerimas dažnai susietas su skausmu. O tai reikštų, kad kuo stipriau pacientai išgyvena skausmą priešoperaciniu ar pooperaciniu laikotarpiu, tuo jiems nustatomas aukštesnis nerimo lygmuo. Moterys daugiau nerimauja prieš operacijas nei vyrai. Mažesnis nerimo lygmuo buvo nustatytas vyresnio amžiaus asmenų grupėje. Didžiausiu priešoperaciniu nerimu pasižymėjo moterys prieš cezario, ginekologines operacijas. Praktiškai kas antras tyrime dalyvavęs asmuo savo iniciatyva bandė įveikti nerimą priešoperaciniu laikotarpiu (informacijos ieškojo internete, konsultavosi su gydytoju, artimaisiais). Psichologiškai pasiruošti operacijai daugiausia padeda artimieji. Mažiausias vaidmuo tenka slaugytojoms. Išvada. Tyrimas padėjo atskleisti neišnaudotas pacientų psichologinio parengimo ir mokymo galimybes chirurginės slaugos praktikoje.
PSICHIKOS SVEIKATOS SLAUGYTOJŲ PATIRIAMOS AGRESIJOS RAIŠKA PSICHIATRIJOS PROFILIO LIGONINĖSE
Authors: Gužauskas Donatas , Grigaliūnienė Viktorija
Published: January 2015

Tyrimo metodas. Tyrimo metu buvo naudotas autoriaus Nico Oud originalus klausimynas POPAS (angl. Perception of Prevalence of Aggression Scale) ir papildomai sudarytas klausimynas. Apklausta 300 psichikos sveikatos slaugytojų, dirbančių respublikinėse psichiatrijos profilio ligoninėse. Tyrimo rezultatai. Dažniausiai pasireiškianti agresijos forma - žodinė agresija ir grasinanti žodinė agresija, žeminantis agresyvus pacientų elgesys ir pasireiškia dažnai ar labai dažnai. Pacientų sunkus fizinis smurtas, seksualinis priekabiavimas, įvykusios savižudybės bei bandymai nusižudyti pasireiškia dažnai ir labai dažnai. Labai dažnai eidami į palatą, kur yra agresyvus pacientas, slaugytojai praneša kolegoms, o įėję į palatą išlieka tarp paciento ir durų, o jei gali durys paliekamos atidarytos, stengiasi, kad paciento aplinkoje nebūtų nereikalingų dirgiklių, triukšmo, kurie didintų frustraciją ir mažintų impulsų kontrolę, stengiasi neparodyti, kad išsigando, neatsitraukia, išlaiko dėmesį, kalbina pacientą, leidžia žodžiais išreikšti pyktį. Slaugytojams, kurių skyriuose gydomiems pacientams diagnozuoti psichikos ir elgesio sutrikimai dėl psichoaktyvių medžiagų vartojimo, yra didesnė tikimybė patirti žodinės, grasinančios žodinės agresijos formas, provokacinio agresyvus elgesio pasireiškimai dažnesni, labai dažnai beveik du kartus nei respondentams, kurių pacientams ši liga nenustatyta. Grasinančios fizinės agresijos pasireiškimo tikimybė dažnai ir labai dažnai yra beveik tris kartus didesnė nei respondentams, kurių pacientams ši liga nenustatyta. Pacientams, turintiems suaugusiųjų asmenybės ir elgesio sutrikimų, sunkaus smurto tikimybė prieš save dažnai ir labai dažnai yra tris kartus didesnė nei pacientams, kuriems ši liga nenustatyta. Ir atvirkščiai, respondentams, kurių skyriuose gydomi pacientai, sergantys šizofrenija, šizotipiniu ir kliedesiniu sutrikimais, žeminančio agresyvaus elgesio ir pasyvaus agresyvaus elgesio pasireiškimo tikimybė dažnai ir labai dažnai yra mažesnė nei pacientams, kuriems ši liga nenustatyta.
FARMACIJOS SPECIALISTŲ POŽIŪRIS Į VAISTININKO PADĖJĖJŲ BENDRĄSIAS KOMPETENCIJAS
Authors: Babonienė Edita , Daukšienė Jurgita , Jonaitienė Laimutė
Published: January 2015

Kintančios darbo rinkos poreikiai tradiciniam koleginiam farmacijos krypties specialistų rengimui - iššūkis, reikalaujantis pastovaus kompetencijomis grįstos studijų programos atnaujinimo, kuris neatsiejamas su socialinių partnerių profesinių poreikių tikrinimu. Šio straipsnio autoriai atliko tyrimą tikslu nustatyti farmacijos specialistų požiūrį į vaistininko padėjėjų, dirbančių šiuolaikinėje Lietuvos visuomenės vaistinėje, bendrąsias kompetencijas. Pasirinktos vaistinės, kuriose kolegijos studentai, būsimieji vaistininko padėjėjai, atliko profesinės veiklos praktikas. Anketinės apklausos metodu išryškinta šių vaistinių vedėjų ir vaistininkų (I grupė), vaistininko padėjėjų (II grupė) nuomonė apie svarbiausias bendrąsias vaistininko padėjėjo kompetencijas, būtinas profesinių kompetencijų plėtotei ir sėkmingam darbui vaistinėje. Tyrimas parodė, kad farmacijos specialistai pakankamai panašiai vertina profesinių instrumentinių, tarpasmeninių ir dalykinių kompetencijų svarbą tinkamai profesinei raidai. Tiek vaistininkai, tiek vaistininkų padėjėjai aukštais įverčiais vertina vaistininko padėjėjų bendrąsias kompetencijas. Jaunų vaistininkų padėjėjų, neturinčių didelės profesinės patirties, bendrosios kompetencijos vertinamos aukštesniu įverčiu nei tos, kurioms reikia ilgesnės profesinės praktikos. Nepaisant gerų įverčių, žvelgiant į šiuolaikines farmacinės rinkos reguliavimo realijas, vaistininko padėjėjai darbo vietoje jaučiasi nesaugiai.
Implementing Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback Groups for Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Reyes Frances J.
Published: January 2015

This article describes the administration of a heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback intervention designed to reduce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity in post-9/11 service members. The study recruited 33 male OEF/OIF/OND combat veterans in a Los Angeles transitional housing program. Twenty-seven veterans completed the study. Participants attended eight once-weekly HRV biofeedback group sessions. For the first four weeks, veterans learned to use biofeedback to regulate physiological stress responses. The latter four weeks consisted of real-life biofeedback application and coaching. Results suggest that consistent HRV biofeedback practice was essential for HRV improvement, which may help alleviate PTSD.
A Progress Report from the BCIA Neurofeedback Certification Task Force
Authors: Crawford Judy , Shaffer Fred
Published: January 2015

Professional certification programs must continuously assess and improve their blueprints, exams, and reading lists to stay relevant. In 2009, the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA) revised its biofeedback and neurofeedback certification programs under the leadership of Randy Neblett and Leslie Sherlin. In 2012, BCIA revamped the Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction Biofeedback program under the guidance of Debbie Callif. For the past 8 months, BCIA's Neurofeedback Task Force, led by Genie Davis, has collaborated with its stakeholders to revise the entire neurofeedback certification program to continue to reflect current science, technology, and practice standards. This article explains the goals and process that guided this herculean effort.
Perspectives on Research on the Use of Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback for Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Ginsberg J. P. , Fogo Wendy
Published: January 2015

The process of doing interventional research using a randomized clinical trial design to test the efficacy of heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback as a treatment for combat-related posttraumatic-stress disorder (PTSD) in Veterans with PTSD is described from two perspectives: by the study Principal Investigator and by one of the research staff. The history, context, and results of the study are briefly presented.
Transforming Chained Behaviors: Case Studies of Overcoming Smoking, Eczema, and Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania)a
Authors: Peper Erik , Lin I-Mei , Harvey Rick , Gilbert Marina , Gubbala Prathyusha , Ratkovich Amy , Fletcher Lauren
Published: January 2015

The authors describe the format of a holistic health class provided to undergraduates at San Francisco State University in California. The class initially emphasizes self-monitoring and record keeping to enhance the students' self-awareness of negative emotions, symptomatic behaviors, and other “chained behaviors” leading to various problems, such as smoking or eczema. The students cultivate a variety of positive self-care behaviors and self-regulation skills, such as mindfulness, relaxation skills, visualization techniques, and seeking social support. Finally, they learn to substitute these self-care practices for the negative emotions and behaviors, in the moments of emerging awareness, thus interrupting the “chain of behaviors” leading to problems. The authors provide case narratives of three students implementing this program to address personal illnesses or problems (smoking, eczema, and trichotillomania).
Skin Resistance Measurement in Japanese Acupuncture
Authors: Wong Yiu-Ming
Published: January 2015

In the last century, the Western clinicians initiated the use of skin resistance measurements for quantifying sweat gland activity as well as assessing anxiety levels. At the same time, acupuncturists used the measurement of skin resistance as a modern diagnostic tool to augment the thousand-year-old acupuncture therapy in Japan. This unique measurement has been called Ryodoraku since 1950. The present article is a brief description of historical aspects of the Ryodoraku and the correlations between skin resistance and various medical conditions.
Pediatric Cataract Surgery in Buphthalmos
Authors: Sukhija Jaspreet , Kaur Savleen , Pandav Surinder S. , Kaushik Sushmita , Raj Srishti , Ram Jagat
Published: January 2015

Purpose

The pediatric eye offers many inherent surgical difficulties and when associated with a large buphthalmic eyeball, acts as a challenging ground for cataract surgeons. The purpose of our study is to describe the surgical outcome of cataract surgery in 6 children with buphthalmos.

Methods

Eight eyes of 6 children with congenital glaucoma (buphthalmos) underwent phacoaspiration with or without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Demographic data, history of glaucoma surgery, intraocular pressure, biometry, surgical steps, and intraoperative and surgical outcome were noted for all patients from medical records. Postoperative outcome in terms of IOL stability, centration, visual acuity, and intraocular pressure were evaluated.

Results

Pediatric cataract surgery was performed in 8 eyes with buphthalmos. Implantation of IOL was possible in 7/8 eyes. Primary posterior capsulorhexis (PPC) was done in 2/8 eyes. The IOL was implanted in the bag in 3 eyes and captured in 4 eyes. Decentration of IOL occurred in 100% of eyes where PPC was performed. Membranectomy for visual axis obscuration was done in 3 eyes.

Conclusions

Standard IOLs remain stable and centered with endocapsular implantation or rhexis fixation of IOL after pediatric cataract surgery in buphthalmos. However, PPC should not be attempted in the same sitting, as it leads to decentration.
On the Roughness Measurement on Knee Prostheses
Authors: Jaber Sami Abdel , Ruggiero Alessandro , Battaglia Santina , Affatato Saverio
Published: January 2015

The majority of total knee replacements currently implanted present an articulation composed of two metal parts, femoral and tibial components, between which there is a polyethylene insert serving as a bearing surface. The finishing surface of the metal components is a very important factor in minimizing the polyethylene wear rate and, later, the gradual production of metal and plastic debris. Considering the role of surface roughness on volumetric wear rates, the purpose of this study is to develop a protocol for the roughness characterization of total knee prosthesis (TKP) metal components, taking into consideration a limited number of points on each surface. Six mobile TKP of different sizes (three size 2 and three size 6) were tested on a knee joint simulator to compare the wear behavior of each group. After 2 million cycles the weight loss by the polyethylene inserts was measured with gravimetric method and the surface roughness of the metallic components was assessed in terms of average surface roughness, Ra, skewness, Rsk, and total roughness, Rt. Roughness measurement involved 29 points on each femoral condyle and 26 points on each metal tibial plate. The data collected has shown an increased roughness upon wear testing for both the investigated TKP sizes. No statistical differences were observed between the two groups for both the parameters Ra, Rsk, and Rt. The surface of all metallic components became more negatively skewed, indicating diminishing peaks. The various parameters were correlated to the volumetric loss using a linear regression analysis.
Pre-Clinical Evaluation of an Adult Extracorporeal Carbon Dioxide Removal System with Active Mixing for Pediatric Respiratory Support
Authors: Jeffries R. Garrett , Mussin Yerbol , Bulanin Denis S. , Lund Laura W. , Kocyildirim Ergin , Zhumadilov Zhaksybay Zb. , Olzhayev Farkhad S. , Federspiel William J. , Wearden Peter D.
Published: January 2015

The objective of this work was to conduct pre-clinical feasibility studies to determine if a highly efficient, active-mixing, adult extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO2R) system can safely be translated to the pediatric population. The Hemolung Respiratory Assist System (RAS) was tested in vitro and in vivo to evaluate its performance for pediatric veno-venous applications. The Hemolung RAS operates at blood flows of 350-550 ml/min and utilizes an integrated pump-gas exchange cartridge with a membrane surface area of 0.59 m2 as the only component of the extracorporeal circuit. Both acute and seven-day chronic in vivo tests were conducted in healthy juvenile sheep using a veno-venous cannulation strategy adapted to the in vivo model. The Hemolung RAS was found to have gas exchange and pumping capabilities relevant to patients weighing 3-25 kg. Seven-day animal studies in juvenile sheep demonstrated that veno-venous extracorporeal support could be used safely and effectively with no significant adverse reactions related to device operation.
Low-Flow Veno-Venous Extracorporeal CO2 Removal: First Clinical Experience in Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Ruberto Franco , Bergantino Bartolomeo , Testa Maria Cristina , D'Arena Carmen , Bernardinetti Mattia , Diso Daniele , De Giacomo Tiziano , Venuta Federico , Pugliese Francesco
Published: January 2015

Background

Low-flow extracorporeal CO2 removal devices are easy to setup and manage and may provide valuable ventilation support.

Methods

We employed a new device (ProLUNG) recently introduced into the clinical arsenal that exploits a simple hemoperfusion technique sustained by blood flows lower than 500 ml/min to remove CO2 from the venous blood. It was used as an adjunctive support to mechanical ventilation during and after four lung transplantations in our center.

Results

Two patients with cystic fibrosis, one with pulmonary fibrosis, and one with emphysema were included. They underwent lung transplantation and presented hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis before, during, or after the surgical procedure. After 1 h of treatment with the ProLUNG circuit, all patients showed reduced CO2 levels and increased pH; these variables remained stable until the end of treatment.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that this new device is effective in removing CO2 and stabilizing the pH.
Peripheral Nerve Regeneration inside Collagen-Based Artificial Nerve Guides in Humans
Authors: Merolli Antonio , Rocchi Lorenzo , Wang Xiu-Mei , Cui Fu-Zhai
Published: January 2015

Purpose

Nerve gap injuries may be associated with lesions in other structures, like tendons or bones; in these cases, it is common to plan a second surgery to improve functional recovery. Since macroscopic observations of nerve regeneration in humans are rare, we exploited these second surgeries for the purpose of studying nerve regeneration in humans.

Methods

We assessed the clinical outcomes of 50 implants of collagen-based nerve guides in the upper limb. We performed a second look at 20, assessing macroscopically both nerve regeneration and collagen degradation.

Results and Conclusions

Pain was never recorded in these patients. An adequate sensory recovery took place whenever nerve regeneration was found inside the guide. Motor recovery seemed to occur only when the gap lesion was shorter than 10 mm. The degree of degradation appeared to be variable and was not directly correlated with time; we hypothesize that it could be associated with the site of implantation. Such a large number of second looks in humans has never been previously reported in the literature.
Evaluation of HEMA Released from Four Different Adhesive Systems by HPLC
Authors: Altunsoy Mustafa , Selim Botsali Murat , Ulker Hayriye Esra
Published: January 2015

Purpose

This study evaluated the elution of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) from 4 different adhesives, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Materials and Methods

The adhesives were applied on a bovine dentin surface and polymerized using an LED curing unit (n=5). After polymerization, specimens were stored in 75% ethanol solution (6 mL). Residual HEMA that was eluted from adhesives (after 10 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours, 7 days and 30 days) was analyzed using HPLC. Statistical analyses were performed using 1-way ANOVA, Tukey HSD test and paired 2-sample t-test.

Results

There were statistically significant differences among adhesive systems for the cumulative released HEMA and among the time periods (p<0.05). Clearfil SE Bond showed the highest amount of HEMA released, while Easy Bond showed the lowest. Among the time periods, the highest eluted HEMA value was detected in 10 minutes for all adhesives, and elution continued for up to 30 days.

Conclusions

The HEMA eluted from adhesives was in different amounts, and the elution continued for a long time. The amount of eluted HEMA from adhesives used in this study was not viewed as critical for toxic reactions in biological tissues.
Microleakage of Bacteria in Different Implant-Abutment Assemblies: An in Vitro Study
Authors: D'Ercole Simonetta , Tripodi Domenico , Marzo Giuseppe , Bernardi Sara , Continenza Maria Adelaide , Piattelli Adriano , Iaculli Flavia , Mummolo Stefano
Published: January 2015

Purpose

The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the leakage observed for 2 different microbial species at the level of the implant–abutment (I-A) interface, and the marginal fit and size of microgap at the I-A interface in 2 different implant connections.

Methods

Ten specimens of each group were tested. The inner parts of 5 implants per group were inoculated with 0.1 μL of a viable Enterococcus faecalis suspension and 5 implants per group with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. All of the vials containing the control specimens were incubated at 37°C under aerobic condition for E. faecalis and 37°C in presence of 5% CO2 for A. actinomycetemcomitans. They were maintained for 14 days, and the possible penetration of bacterial suspension into the surrounding solution was determined by the observation of turbidity of the broth. The I-A interface was evaluated for size of microgap and measured under SEM. Five implants of each group were evaluated. The marginal fit between implant and abutment was measured at 8 random locations in each assembly, under different magnifications at the interface.

Results

No leakages through the I-A interface were demonstrated for either type of connection evaluated. The microgap values of all I-A interfaces ranged from 0.008 to 2.009 μm; the differences between the 2 systems were statistically significant.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that a good marginal fit of implant components seemed to be able to prevent bacterial leakage.
To Pack or Not to Pack: The Current Status of Periodontal Dressings
Authors: Kathariya Rahul , Jain Hansa , Jadhav Tanya
Published: January 2015

Surgical wound dressings have been employed over several centuries for the purpose of protection of surgical sites, to prevent postoperative infection and to accelerate healing. Periodontal dressings, also known as periodontal packs, provide similar benefits when applied after periodontal surgical procedures. They can broadly be categorized as eugenol-based dressings and noneugenol dressings. Over the years, many modifications have been made to the composition of such dressings to improve their physical and therapeutic properties. Controversies surrounding the rationale for their use, advantages and disadvantages of the most commonly employed periodontal dressings and their current status in clinical practice are described in this comprehensive review. From the evidence-based literature presented here, we have also attempted to answer the question of whether there is a universal need for the application of periodontal dressings.
Nano/Micro Hybrid Scaffold of PCL or P3HB Nanofibers Combined with Silk Fibroin for Tendon and Ligament Tissue Engineering
Authors: Naghashzargar Elham , Farè Silvia , Catto Valentina , Bertoldi Serena , Semnani Dariush , Karbasi Saeed , Tanzi Maria Cristina
Published: January 2015

A novel biodegradable nano/micro hybrid structure was obtained by electrospinning P3HB or PCL nanofibers onto a twisted silk fibroin (SF) structure, with the aim of fabricating a suitable scaffold for tendon and ligament tissue engineering. The electrospinning (ES) processing parameters for P3HB and PCL were optimized on 2D samples, and applied to produce two different nano/micro hybrid constructs (SF/ES-PCL and SF/ES-P3HB).

Morphological, chemico-physical and mechanical properties of the novel hybrid scaffolds were evaluated by SEM, ATR FT-IR, DSC, tensile and thermodynamic mechanical tests. The results demonstrated that the nanofibers were tightly wrapped around the silk filaments, and the crystallinity of the SF twisted yarns was not influenced by the presence of the electrospun polymers. The slightly higher mechanical properties of the hybrid constructs confirmed an increase of internal forces due to the interaction between nano and micro components. Cell culture tests with L929 fibroblasts, in the presence of the sample eluates or in direct contact with the hybrid structures, showed no cytotoxic effects and a good level of cytocompatibility of the nano/micro hybrid structures in term of cell viability, particularly at day 1. Cell viability onto the nano/micro hybrid structures decreased from the first to the third day of culture when compared with the control culture plastic, but appeared to be higher when compared with the uncoated SF yarns. Although additional in vitro and in vivo tests are needed, the original fabrication method here described appears promising for scaffolds suitable for tendon and ligament tissue engineering.
Local Blood Flow Patterns in Stented Coronary Bifurcations: An Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Raben Jaime S. , Morlacchi Stefano , Burzotta Francesco , Migliavacca Francesco , Vlachos Pavlos P.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

Despite the atheroprone environment of blood flow in coronary bifurcations, limited quantitative information is available on the hemodynamics occurring in these geometries, both before and after their treatment with endovascular stents. Previous studies have focused on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses and have bypassed the challenges associated with experimentally representing the flow environment, providing no means for validation. This study analyzed steady flow conditions in 3 bifurcation angles and 4 different single- and double-stenting procedures, which are used clinically in coronary bifurcations.

Methods

The numerical aspect of this study utilized geometries derived from CAD models (nonstented cases) and finite element simulations (stented cases). Digital particle image velocimetry (DPIV) testing was conducted within compliant bifurcating models for which an uncertainty analysis was performed at each measurement location for CFD validation purposes. Results were analyzed in terms of velocity magnitude contour maps and axial velocity profiles at several locations in the bifurcated vessels.

Results and Conclusions

Qualitatively, the 2 approaches showed agreement in the bulk flow patterns. However, the velocity computed with CFD was outside the DPIV uncertainty estimates, which can be attributed to the intrinsic difference and modeling assumptions of the 2 approaches. The findings reveal that wider bifurcation angles and double-stenting procedures are both characterized by increased areas of low flow and recirculation. Additionally, inferior performance in terms of viscous and wall shear stresses was observed in double-stented cases.
Prognostic Value of Bcl-2 Expression in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gioacchini Federico Maria , Alicandri-Ciufelli Matteo , Rubini Corrado , Magliulo Giuseppe , Re Massimo
Published: January 2015

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the prognostic value of Bcl-2 immunostaining in patients affected by laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. An appropriate search was conducted on PubMed to retrieve articles dealing with this topic. A double cross-check was performed on citations and full-text articles by 2 investigators independently to review all manuscripts and perform a comprehensive quality assessment. Of 115 abstracts identified, 15 articles were included. These studies reported on 1,150 patients with histologically confirmed diagnosis of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Only a few studies showed a statistical correlation between Bcl-2 immunohistochemical expression and at least 1 of the clinical and histopathological parameters considered by the authors. Moreover, these findings were also discordant between them. Overall the studies analyzed suggested that Bcl-2 expression was statistically connected with N stage (2/14), grading (2/14), disease-free survival (3/14) and overall survival (5/14). Interestingly, all of the 3 studies investigating the relation between Bcl-2 and radioresistance showed significant results in terms of recurrence-free survival and overall survival. Our review strongly suggests that the immunohistochemical staining of Bcl-2 does not correlate with tumoral aggressiveness and prognosis of patients affected by laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and treated with primary surgery. However, an interesting connection of this protein could be demonstrated with tumoral radioresistance. Further, high-quality prospective studies should be carried out to confirm this hypothesis.
MGMT Promoter Methylation and Glioblastoma: A Comparison of Analytical Methods and of Tumor Specimens
Authors: Lattanzio Laura , Borgognone Marzia , Mocellini Cristina , Giordano Fabrizio , Favata Ermanno , Fasano Gaetano , Vivenza Daniela , Monteverde Martino , Tonissi Federica , Ghiglia Annalisa , Fillini Claudia , Bernucci Claudio , Merlano Marco , Nigro Cristiana Lo
Published: January 2015

It is already well known that hypermethylation of the O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter is a predictive biomarker of response to temozolomide treatment and of favorable outcomes in terms of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Nevertheless, MGMT methylation status has not currently been introduced into routine clinical practice, as the choice of the ideal technique and tissue sample specimen is still controversial. The aim of this study was to compare 2 analytical methods, methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) and pyrosequencing (PSQ), and their use on 2 different tissue type samples, snap-frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE), obtained from a single-center and uniformly treated cohort of 46 GBM patients. We obtained methylation data from all frozen tissues, while no results were obtained for 5 FFPE samples. The highest concordance for methylation was found on frozen tissues (88.5%, 23/26 samples), using PSQ (76.7%, 23/30 samples). Moreover, we confirmed that OS and PFS for patients carrying methylation of the MGMT promoter were longer than for patients with an unmethylated promoter. In conclusion, we considered MSP a limited technique for FFPE tissues due to the high risk of false-positive results; in contrast, our data indicated PSQ as the most powerful method to stratify methylated/unmethylated patients as it allows reaching quantitative results with high sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, frozen tumor tissues were shown to be the best specimens for MGMT methylation analysis, due to the low DNA degradation and homogeneity in methylation throughout the tumor.
The Relation between CA 19-9 level and Early-Phase Insulin Secretion in Normoglycemic and Prediabetic Subjects
Authors: Shimodaira Masanori , Niwa Tomohiro , Nakajima Koji , Kobayashi Mutsuhiro , Hanyu Norinao , Nakayama Tomohiro
Published: January 2015

Background

Carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 is used as a clinical tumor marker of pancreatic cancer; recent studies report that CA 19-9 is also associated with changes in blood glucose levels. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between serum CA 19-9 levels and early-phase insulin secretion in nondiabetic individuals.

Methods

We enrolled 269 normoglycemic participants and 172 prediabetic participants who had undergone the 75-g oral glucose tolerance test during their annual health examination. Insulin secretion was estimated using the disposition index (DI) [(Δinsulin(0-30 min)/Δglucose(0-30 min) × (1/HOMA-IR)], which is an adjusted measure of relationship between β-cell sensitivity and insulin sensitivity.

Results

Serum CA 19-9 level was significantly higher in the prediabetic participants than in the normoglycemic participants. Simple linear regression analysis showed a negative correlation between CA 19-9 levels and DI for all participants and prediabetic participants (r = -0.126, p = 0.009, and r = -0.189, p = 0.002, respectively). However, in the normoglycemic participants, CA 19-9 levels did not correlate with DI. For all participants, and prediabetic subjects, multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that serum CA 19-9 levels were one of the independent predictors of DI (adjusted β = -0.098, p = 0.025, and adjusted β = -0.177, p = 0.004, respectively).

Conclusions

Serum CA 19-9 levels significantly correlate with early-phase insulin secretion in the prediabetic individuals. Our results indicate that CA 19-9 may be involved in the endocrine function of pancreas.
Androgen Receptor and Enzymes in Lymph Node Metastasis and Cancer Reoccurrence in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: McNamara Keely May , Yoda Tomomi , Miki Yasuhiro , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Suzuki Takashi , Nemoto Noriko , Miyashita Minoru , Nishimura Reiki , Arima Nobuyuki , Tamaki Kentaro , Ishida Takanori , Ohuchi Noriaki , Sasano Hironobu
Published: January 2015

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by the absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and HER2. TNBCs are a diverse subgroup, but one promising marker and therapeutic target of this breast cancer is the androgen receptor (AR). Previously we demonstrated that AR and cognate intracrine pathways are associated with decreased proliferation in invasive ductal carcinoma with their decrease also detected between organ-confined and invasive diseases. Therefore, in this study, we examined the status of AR and androgen-producing enzymes during the process of metastasis to lymph nodes and cancer recurrence.

Materials and Methods

We studied 2 series of patients with TNBC, one from Kumamoto University Hospital composed of 16 matched cases of primary and locally or distal recurrences and the other from Tohoku University Hospital examining 46 lymph node metastasis from 23 patients. In addition to studying concordance in AR expression, we also examined the interactions between AR and Ki-67 labeling index and AR and site of distal metastasis.

Results

In both series, AR status was concordant between primary and recurrent/metastatic disease, but coordinated expression of AR and androgenic enzymes was lost during the process. The inverse association between AR and Ki-67, previously reported in invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), was markedly potentiated in both lymph node and recurrent cancers. In addition, AR expression appeared to have little effect on visceral metastasis but was associated directly with bone metastasis and inversely with brain metastasis.

Conclusions

The results of our present study demonstrated that AR remained in the majority of metastatic samples from AR-positive primary TNBCs and that AR manipulation could be exploited in the metastatic settings of TNBC.
Urinary Incontinence and Neuropathy after Radical Prostatectomy: Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Ventimiglia Bernardo , Sigona Matilde , Di Dio Agata , Puglisi Tiziana , Costantino Giuseppe
Published: January 2015

Introdution and Objective

The urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy is secondary to neuropathy with various degrees from neurapraxia to neurotmesis. We propose to apply therapeutic and rehabilitative models appropriate to the diagnosis and to evaluate the results.

Materials and Methods

We examined 79 homogeneous patients with urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. After having defined the diagnosis by a urodynamic examination, the study of pudendal nerve somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEPs) and perineal electromyography (EMG), patients were divided into four groups (A; B; C; D) and submitted to different clinical drug protocols and rehabilitation. After 3 months, patients were reevaluated.

Results

Twenty-eight patients with idiopathic overactive bladder (Group A) have been treated with anticholinergics: two unchanged (7%); 14 improved (50%); and 12 recovered (43%). Sixteen patients with overactive bladder and sphincter incompetence (Group B) have practiced physiokinesis therapy (FKT) of pelvic floor and anticholinergic therapy: one unchanged (6%); eight improved (50%); and seven recovered (44%). Fourteen patients with perineal incompetence to continence (Group C) have been treated with FES, FKT of pelvic floor, and Biofeedback: three patients were unchanged (21%); five improved (36%); and six recovered (43%). Twenty-one patients with sphincter denervation (Group D) performed FES, FKT of pelvic floor, and Biofeedback: 16 unchanged (76%); five improved (24%); and zero recovered (0%). Of these 16 patients, six non-responders have placed a transobturator tape (TOT) sling and four an artificial sphincter.

Conclusions

A therapy adherent to the diagnosis increases success rate.
Surgery for Male Urinary Incontinence: Where are we now and what is in the Pipeline?
Authors: Bientinesi Riccardo , Recupero Salvatore Marco , Palermo Giuseppe , D'Agostino Daniele , Bassi Pier Francesco , Sacco Emilio
Published: January 2015

Male stress urinary incontinence, which has radical prostatectomy as the main aetiology, affects about 39% of the adult male population and is one of the complications of radical prostatectomy with the greatest impact on the quality of life of patients. There are a wide range of treatments for stress urinary incontinence available to the urologist, ranging from conservative treatments to surgical treatments, from minimally invasive procedures to the implant of artificial sphincter prosthesis. The aim of this work is to define the state-of-the-art of surgical treatments for male stress urinary incontinence, analyzing the most recent studies in the literature and evaluating the available scientific evidence.
Zastosowanie Testu Aktywacji Bazofilów w Diagnostyce Nadwrażliwości na Kwas Acetylosalicylowy
Authors: Gawinowska Marika , Specjalski Krzysztof , Chełmińska Marta , Łata Jakub , Zieliński Maciej
Published: January 2015

W obliczu coraz powszechniej występujących reakcji nadwrażliwości niezwykle istotna jest skuteczna, wiarygodna, a przy tym bezpieczna dla chorego diagnostyka. Wśród aktualnie dostępnych metod laboratoryjnych znajduje się test aktywacji bazofilów (BAT). Badanie to, wykorzystujące cytometr przepływowy, umożliwia oznaczenie w pobranej próbce krwi bazofilów i jednocześnie ocenę stopnia ich aktywacji po ekspozycji na antygen. Do analizy tej najczęściej stosuje się markery powierzchniowe CD203c oraz CD63, które ulegają ekspresji po stymulacji komórki antygenem. Test aktywacji bazofilów wykorzystuje się do oceny alergii na jady owadów błonkoskrzydłych, pokarmy, pyłki roślin oraz nadwrażliwości na leki. Niniejszy artykuł przybliża podstawy teoretyczne wykonania badania oraz przedstawia zalety i wady tej metody diagnostycznej. Skupia się również na prezentacji przypadku z codziennej praktyki klinicznej, w którym BAT wykorzystano do uzupełnienia diagnostyki alergologicznej. Zaprezentowano przykład chorej z podejrzeniem nadwrażliwości na antybiotyk i niesteroidowy lek przeciwzapalny.
Lekarze Polskiego Pochodzenia na Ukrainie (XVIII–XX w.)
Authors: Kowalski Janusz , Radwan Leszek , Kolesnikova Evgenia
Published: January 2015

Po rozbiorach Polski (pod koniec XVIII wieku) [...]
A Scalable Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) Based Architecture for Fire Disaster Monitoring in the Developing World
Authors:   Makerere University/Department of Computer Science, Kampala, Uganda, Lule Emmanuel , Bulega Tonny Eddie
Published: January 2015

All over the world, there is a tremendous increase in disaster occurrences such as landslide, toxic gas pollutions and wild fires. Least developed countries like Uganda have taken minimal efforts in management and containment of such disasters on behalf of the local populace. The dangers of fires are as a result of lack of proper information about the location, intensity and rate of spread of fire. However, the use of WSN may be one of the alternative ways of reducing risks associated with spreading fires resulting into destruction of lives and property worth millions of shillings. Our research looks at fire monitoring using sensors deployed in an event field to detect possible precursors of a fire occurrence using a simulated approach of OPNET Modeler (Ver. 14.0). Mobile nodes were deployed in proximity of (500X500) m2 flat space moving at a uniform speed of 10ms-1 for 30 minutes. Our simulations are based on ftp high priority traffic to reflect real time information transfer for analysis. This paper evaluates and discusses how sensed information can be transmitted through a network with minimal delay and proposes a scalable WSN architectural design based on protocol perspective i.e. AODV and DSR. Two QoS parameters have been considered i.e. delay and throughput. Our results show that AODV scheme has got a minimum delay of 0.2ms-1and a maximum throughput of 1.7Mbps. Hence it's highly recommended for monitoring fires in large open area settings compared to DSR that is suitable for smaller areas. Results show that DSR exhibits higher delays due to nodal congestion and high control overheads. However, introducing the proposed heterogeneous routing mechanism i.e. (AODV+DSR) into the network significantly improves the performance of DSR.