bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análises Biplot: conceitos, interpretações e aplicações
Authors: Silva Raphael Rossi , Benin Giovani
Published: September 2012

A seleção e recomendação de genótipos superiores são dificultadas devido à ocorrência da interação genótipo e ambiente. Nesse contexto, as análises biplot têm sido cada vez mais utilizadas na análise de dados agronômicos, com interações de natureza complexa. Entretanto, as particularidades existentes no gráfico biplot dificultam sua interpretação, podendo induzir o pesquisador a erros. Assim, este artigo de revisão discute a aplicabilidade e a interpretação gráfica dos modelos AMMI (Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction) e GGE biplot (genotype main effects + genotype environment interaction) destas análises no gráfico biplot. Também, visa a desmistificar a necessidade de comparação entre ambas as metodologias. Discute-se quanto à escolha da metodologia mais adequada, levando em consideração a informação requerida e os objetivos do pesquisador.
Enzimas exógenas em dietas de frangos de corte: desempenho
Authors: Barbosa Nei André Arruda , Sakomura Nilva Kazue , Bonato Melina Aparecida , Hauschild Luciano , Oviedo-Rondon Edgar
Published: September 2012

O experimento foi conduzido para avaliar a eficiência de enzimas exógenas em dietas sobre o desempenho de frangos de corte. Um total de 1440 pintos de corte machos (Cobb 500®) foram distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 2x2 (duas dietas com diferentes densidades nutricionais; com e sem a adição enzimática) com 8 repetições de 45 aves em cada unidade experimental. As dietas com diferentes densidades nutricionais foram: controle positivo (níveis normais) e um controle negativo (com redução de 4,3 e 4,5% de energia metabolizável; 16,7 e 17,7% de cálcio e 35 e 42,7% de fósforo, nas fases inicial e de crescimento, respectivamente). A suplementação enzimática consistiu da combinação das enzimas fitase (100g t-1) e amilase, xilanase e protease (500g t-1). Foi avaliado o desempenho das aves nas fases de 1 a 21 e 1 a 42 dias de idade. Na fase total de criação, as aves alimentadas com a dieta controle negativo com adição enzimática tiveram consumo de ração (5,97%), peso médio (8,47%), ganho de peso (8,64%) e conversão alimentar (2,92%) melhores (P<0,05), comparados às aves alimentadas com dieta controle negativo, sem a suplementação de enzimas. Além disso, as aves alimentadas com a dieta controle negativo com adição enzimática apresentaram consumo de ração, peso vivo médio e ganho de peso similar (P>0,05) ao grupo alimentado com a dieta controle positivo com ou sem enzima. A adição de enzimas exógenas em dieta de frangos de corte com redução de energia metabolizável, cálcio e fósforo, proporciona um consumo de ração, peso vivo médio e ganho de peso similar a uma dieta com níveis nutricionais adequados.
Mentors also need support: a study on their difficulties and resources in medical schools
Authors: Gonçalves Marina de Castro Nascimento , Bellodi Patricia Lacerda
Published: September 2012

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Mentors have been recognized as important elements in the personal and professional development of medical students. However, few investigations have sought to understand their development, needs and difficulties. Our objective was to investigate the perceptions of a group of mentors regarding difficulties experienced over time and the resources used to face up to them. DESIGN AND SETTING: Qualitative exploratory study on mentors at Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP). In the FMUSP Mentoring Program, mentors follow and guide students throughout the course, and are responsible for heterogeneous group of students, in relation to the academic year. METHOD: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 FMUSP mentors. RESULTS: For many of the mentors, the difficulties related to initial doubts about the role, frustration with the students' attendance and overloading of daily tasks. To address such difficulties, these mentors used external resources and their own life experience and personal way of dealing with situations. Some mentors did not perceive difficulties for themselves or for students. CONCLUSIONS: Like in other mentoring programs, many difficulties perceived by mentors seem to be derived from the context of medical education itself. However, unlike in other experiences, FMUSP mentors do not feel that there is lack of support for their role, since this is regularly provided in the structure and dynamics of the program. The "difficulty in perceiving difficulties", presented by some mentors, demands further investigation for better and greater understanding.
Fatores clínicos e anatomopatológicos que influenciam a sobrevida de pacientes com câncer de mama e derrame pleural neoplásico
Authors: Santos Giovana Tavares dos , Prolla João Carlos , Camillo Natália Dressler , Zavalhia Lisiane Silveira , Ranzi Alana Durayski , Bica Claudia Giuliano
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar os fatores clínicos e anatomopatológicos que possam influenciar o prognóstico de pacientes com câncer de mama e sintomas clínicos de derrame pleural neoplásico. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo clínico de coorte, no qual foram analisados os prontuários médicos de pacientes que receberam diagnóstico de derrame pleural neoplásico entre 2006 e 2010. Por meio da análise dos prontuários, identificamos as pacientes com história de câncer de mama. Para essas pacientes, coletamos dados anatomopatológicos relacionados ao tumor primário e dados citopatológicos relacionados à metástase pleural. RESULTADOS: Das 145 pacientes avaliadas, 87 (60%) apresentaram, no exame citológico, resultado positivo para células neoplásicas no líquido pleural; além disso, 119 (82%) apresentaram tipo histológico ductal. O fenótipo triplo-negativo foi observado em 25 pacientes (17%), as quais apresentaram o pior prognóstico, com queda acentuada na curva de sobrevida. Das 25 pacientes, 20 (80%) evoluíram a óbito durante o período de seguimento (até junho de 2011). A sobrevida média após a identificação de derrame pleural neoplásico foi de 6 meses. CONCLUSÕES: Em pacientes com câncer de mama triplo-negativo e exame citológico com resultado positivo para células neoplásicas no líquido pleural, o prognóstico é ruim e a sobrevida é menor.
Moderate Immunohistochemical Expression of HER-2 (2+) Without HER-2 Gene Amplification Is a Negative Prognostic Factor in Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Rossi Valentina , Sarotto Ivana , Maggiorotto Furio , Berchialla Paola , Kubatzki Franziska , Tomasi Nicoletta , Redana Stefania , Martinello Rossella , Valabrega Giorgio , Aglietta Massimo , Ponzone Riccardo , Montemurro Filippo
Published: September 2012

Background.

Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2 testing in patients with operable breast cancer is aimed at identifying candidates for adjuvant anti–HER-2 treatment. However, commonly defined “HER-2−” tumors express variable levels of the HER-2 protein, which can influence prognosis. We compared the clinical outcomes of operable breast cancer patients stratified according to a common HER-2 testing algorithm.

Methods.

We studied 1,150 women (median age, 58 years; range, 22–94 years) undergoing surgery for early breast cancer at our institution. HER-2 status was determined using the HercepTest™ (Dako, Glostrup, Denmark) and, when needed, by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Patients receiving adjuvant trastuzumab were excluded. The impact of HER-2 status on the disease-free survival (DFS) time was studied using multivariate Cox proportional regression analysis.

Results.

Four hundred-fifty seven (40%), 454 (39%), 116 (10%), and 123 (11%) patients were considered HER-2 0+, HER-2 1+, HER-2 2+/HER-2− by FISH, and HER-2+ (3+ or HER-2+ by FISH), respectively. Compared with a HER-2 0 or 1+ status, a HER-2 2+/HER-2− by FISH status was associated with a worse DFS outcome on multivariate analysis. Compared with a HER-2+ status, a HER-2 2+/HER-2− status showed a time-dependent effect on the DFS probability, with an initial advantage that worsened every year by a factor of 1.649.

Conclusion.

A HER-2 2+/HER-2− status is an adverse prognostic factor in patients with operable breast cancer. Because of suggestions from randomized trials that the benefits of adjuvant trastuzumab may not be limited to patients with HER-2+ tumors, patients with a HER-2 2+/HER-2− status are ideal candidates for studies testing this hypothesis.
Norian to Rhaetian scleractinian corals in the Ferdows Patch Reef (Nayband Formation, east central Iran)
Authors: Shepherd Hannah M. E. , Stanley George D. , Amirhassankhani Fatemeh
Published: September 2012

The Nayband Formation is one of the best known sedimentary units in central Iran. The type section consists of a thick succession of shale, siltstone, reef limestone and sandstone that is subdivided into five distinct members: Gelkan, Bidestan, Hoz-e-Sheykh, Howz-e- Khan and Qadir. Abundant and well-preserved framework-building scleractinian corals are included among the macrofossils of the Nayband Formation; these corals characterize the formation and are the subject of this study. The Hassan-Abad section, located in northeast Iran in Lute Block (northwest of Ferdows city), was chosen for detailed study and sampling. Analysis of sedimentary lithofacies and faunal assemblages in the Bidestan and the Howz-e-khan members indicate both biostromal and biohermal characters for the former shallow-water patch reefs and support a Norian to Rhaetian age. The useful biostratigraphic hydrozoanHeterastridium conglobatumwas studied along with 14 taxa of scleractinian corals:Stylophyllopsis rudis, Distichophyllia norica, Paradistichophyllum dichotomum, Retiophyllia frechi, Retiophyllia norica, Retiophyllia robusta, Chondrocoenia schafhaeutli, Chondrocoenia ohmanni, Astraeomorpha crassisepta, Astraeomorpha confusa, Astraeomorpha minor, Procyclolites triadicus, Pamiroseris rectilamellosa,andEocomoseris ramosa. These fossils clarify the stratigraphy of the Nayband Formation, as well as provide new information on the patch reefs and the framework constructors of these reefs.
Morphology, phylogeny, and systematic revision of genera in the Dimyidae (Mollusca, Bivalvia, Pteriomorphia)
Authors: Waller Thomas R.
Published: September 2012

Differences in the mineralogy of hinge teeth and inner shell layers in the family Dimyidae form the basis for a revision of genera. The stem genusAtreta(Late Triassic to Late Cretaceous) has aragonitic denticulate hinge teeth on the right valve articulating with pitted sockets on the left valve. The same arrangement is present inNeoatretan. gen. (Paleocene? Miocene to Recent) but with the appearance of extensive calcitic overarching of the resilifer. InDimyella(Eocene to Recent), aragonitic teeth and sockets are still present but are modified into hook shaped denticulate teeth with corresponding sockets. All three of these genera have inner aragonitic crossed-lamellar shell layers that extend well outside the pallial line. In contrast,Dimya(Eocene to Recent) andBasiliomya(Pliocene to Recent) comprise a second clade in which aragonitic hinge teeth are absent and hinge articulation is calcitic, derived from the calcitic rim.Dimyahas only weak hinge articulation and has an aragonitic inner shell layer delimited by the pallial line; inBasiliomyacalcitic hinge teeth are more prominent and the entire inner shell layer inside the pallial line is foliated calcite.Diploschiza(Cretaceous, Albian to Maastrichtian), here reinstated from synonymy withAtreta, is probably a precursor of theDimya-Basiliomyaclade based on incipient calcitic hinge teeth. Predation pressures probably drove the evolution of this cemented family from its original habitat on hardgrounds in moderately deep water into much greater depths or into cryptic habitats, including submarine caves.

New combinations areDimyella malnatrensis(Corselli and Bernocchi),D. molokaia(Dall, Bartsch, and Rehder),D. similis(v. Koenen),Neoatreta dissimilis(Tate),N. filipina(Bartsch),N. kaiparaensis(Laws),N. phaidra(Woodring),and N. plana(Martin).
Boundary shear distribution in open channel compound
Authors: GHOSH S , JENA SB
Published: September 2012

The importance of the determination of boundary shear distribution and the applicability of measurement by surface pitot tube technique after Preston1in open channel flow are discussed. The results of the investigation made to explore boundary shear distribution in a smooth and an artificially roughened compound channel are presented. The distribution of shear is found to be non-uniform in character and the location of maximum bed and side shear stress to be some distance from the centreline and free surface. The sharing of total drag force by the different segments of the channel section is found to be related to the depth of flow and roughness concentration.
Sheffield Arts Tower: rejuvenation of a II* listed structure
Authors: Everett Clive P.
Published: September 2012

With its grade II* English Heritage listing, the University of Sheffield's Arts Tower posed a refurbishment challenge. The adopted retrofit solution provides owners of similar properties with a template for an appropriate and sustainable alternative to the customary refurbishment options. This paper demonstrates that a need to preserve the original architectural intentions and functions that characterise these historically important structures does not automatically preclude solutions that accommodate the requirements and expectations of modern building users and operators An understanding of the existing structure, early engagement with conservation officers and sound façade engineering advice were all important in the selection and approval of a strip and re-clad option. This met the strict planning conditions and client objectives, extended the service life of the building by 30 years and was delivered on time and within budget.
Vertical and Horizontal Ridge Augmentation of a Severely Resorbed Ridge in the Anterior Maxilla
Authors: Monje Alberto , Monje Florencio , Suarez Fernando , González‐García Raúl , Villanueva‐Alcojol Laura , Moreno Carlos , Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: September 2012

Introduction: Achieving esthetically pleasing therapeutic outcomes when rehabilitating a deficient anterior maxilla with dental implants can be very challenging. This case report presents the use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and guided bone regeneration (GBR) in combination with autogenous block grafts in the three‐dimensional bone augmentation of a severely deficient anterior maxillary ridge.

Case Presentation: A patient with a missing maxillary left lateral incisor received a cone‐beam computed tomography scan, which revealed a horizontally and vertically deficient residual ridge. Horizontally, the residual had no buccal plate and a thin palatal plate. Vertically, the defect was 14.5 mm as measured from the cemento‐enamel junction of adjacent teeth to the most apical point. Both buccal and palatal sites were treated with autogenous ramus block grafts, GBR, and PRP in an attempt to gain adequate ridge height and width for future implant placement. The surgical site was reentered 6 to 9 months after the bone augmentation procedure, and a dental implant, with no additional bone grafting, was placed with adequate primary implant stability. As a result of the successful gain in bone width and height through the augmentation procedure, an esthetic outcome was achieved with the implant‐supported restoration. In addition, no signs of inflammation, peri‐implant bone loss, or implant mobility were observed.

Conclusion: Vertical and horizontal bone augmentation can be successfully performed to gain bone height and width that is essential for ideal implant positioning and esthetic outcomes.
Isolation and screening of heavy metal resistant bacteria from wastewater: a study of heavy metal co-resistance and antibiotics resistance
Authors: Yamina Benmalek , Tahar Benayad , Marie Laure Fardeau
Published: September 2012

The uncontrolled discharges of wastes containing a large quantity of heavy metal create huge economical and healthcare burdens particularly for people living near that area. However, the bioremediation of metal pollutants from wastewater using metal-resistant bacteria is a very important aspect of environmental biotechnology. In this study, 13 heavy metal resistant bacteria were isolated from the wastewater of wadi El Harrach in the east of Algiers and characterized. These include zinc-, lead-, chromium- and cadmium-resistant bacteria. The metal-resistant isolates characterized include both Gram-negative (77%) and Gram-positive (23%) bacteria. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of wastewater isolates against the four heavy metals was determined in solid media and ranged from 100 to 1,500 μg/ml. All the isolates showed co-resistance to other heavy metals and antibiotic resistance of which 15% were resistant to one antibiotic and 85% were multi- and bi-antibiotics resistant. The zinc-resistant species Micrococcus luteus was the much more heavy metal resistant. The results of toxicity tests on Vibrio fischeri showed that the DI50 (5 min) as low as 0.1 carried away luminescence inhibition greater than 50%.
Purification of eutrophic water by ryegrass
Authors: Ding Zheli , Golan-Goldhirsh Avi , Rafiq Muhammad Khalid , Li Tingqiang , Zhao Fengliang , Yang Xiaoe
Published: September 2012

The present study was carried out to investigate the growth characteristics of different ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) cultivars and their ability to remediate eutrophic water using floating plant-bed technology. Greenhouse and lake experiments were conducted to evaluate the grass genotypes for water remediation. Twelve cultivars of ryegrass including Grazer, Secale Cerale, Energa, Rustmaster, AngusI, Abundant, AngusII, Jivet, Gulf, Surrey, Major and Barwoltra were grown in the floating plant-bed system. The plant biomass, plant NP (nitrogen and phosphorus) accumulations and the water purification capacity of selected grasses were significantly different (P < 0.05). Abundant, AngusII and Major showed most efficient purification capacity of eutrophic water. In a greenhouse, after 26 days of growth, the eutrophic water was purified to various extents by the different ryegrass cultivars. Nitrogen removal efficiency varied from 52.20% to 73.82% and phosphorus removal efficiency ranged from 75.12% to 84.77%. In a lake experiment at Huajiachi pond, after 162 days of growth, the plant shoot biomass increased from 321.5 to 922.8 g/m2 dry weight basis, shoot NP accumulation ranged from 61.5 to 168.2 mg m−2 d−1 and 11.9 to 47.2 mg m−2 d−1 respectively. NP accumulation rate by the various cultivars of ryegrass was highly positively correlated to their biomass production and water purification capacity. Thus, plant biomass could be used as an indicator for assessing purification capacity of a ryegrass cultivar.
Surface characterisation of biofouled NF membranes: role of surface energy for improved rejection predictions
Authors: Botton Sabrina , Verliefde Arne R. D. , Quach Nhut T. , Cornelissen Emile R.
Published: September 2012

Biomass attachment and growth on high pressure membranes alter the surface characteristics and rejection performance of nanofiltration membranes. Along with electrostatic interaction and size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction between solutes and membrane surface play the major role in the separation process. Therefore, in attempt to properly quantify the surface energy of clean and biofouled membranes, different contact angle techniques were applied in this research. The surface energies of membranes were determined on dry, wet and hydrated surfaces. Results indicate that drying of the membrane surface leads to a modification of the surface properties, which are therefore not representative of the membrane in its operational conditions. Immersing the membrane in water resulted in detachment of biomass material into the surrounding liquid, thus hampering a correct estimation of the contact angle. Contact angle measurements on hydrated surfaces, on the contrary, produced reproducible results, which are consistent with current knowledge. In addition, when the values obtained by hydrated method were applied in a predictive model earlier developed, a significant improvement in predictions resulted.
Engineered ecosystem for on-site wastewater treatment in tropical areas
Authors: de Sá Salomão André Luis , Marques Marcia , Severo Raul Gonçalves , da Cruz Roque Odir Clécio
Published: September 2012

There is a worldwide demand for decentralized wastewater treatment options. An on-site engineered ecosystem (EE) treatment plant was designed with a multistage approach for small wastewater generators in tropical areas. The array of treatment units included a septic tank, a submersed aerated filter, and a secondary decanter followed by three vegetated tanks containing aquatic macrophytes intercalated with one tank of algae. During 11 months of operation with a flow rate of 52 L h−1, the system removed on average 93.2% and 92.9% of the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and volatile suspended solids (VSS) reaching final concentrations of 36.3 ± 12.7 and 13.7 ± 4.2 mg L−1, respectively. Regarding ammonia-N (NH4-N) and total phosphorus (TP), the system removed on average 69.8% and 54.5% with final concentrations of 18.8 ± 9.3 and 14.0 ± 2.5 mg L−1, respectively. The tanks with algae and macrophytes together contributed to the overall nutrient removal with 33.6% for NH4-N and 26.4% for TP. The final concentrations for all parameters except TP met the discharge threshold limits established by Brazilian and EU legislation. The EE was considered appropriate for the purpose for which it was created.
Biodegradation of bisphenol A and 4-alkylphenols by Novosphingobium sp. strain TYA-1 and its potential for treatment of polluted water
Authors: Toyama T. , Kainuma Y. , Kikuchi S. , Mori K.
Published: September 2012

We investigated the use of Novosphingobium sp. strain TYA-1 for the simultaneous removal of bisphenol A (BPA) and 4-alkylphenols (4-APs) from complex polluted waters. Strain TYA-1 degraded BPA and utilized it as a sole carbon and energy source via oxidative skeletal rearrangement involving the cytochrome p450 monooxygenase system. Strain TYA-1 also degraded 4-APs with branched side alkyl chains (4-tert-butylphenol [4-tert-BP], 4-sec-butylphenol, 4-tert-pentylphenol, 4-tert-octylphenol [4-tert-OP], and branched nonylphenol mixture) via 4-alkylcatechols but could not degrade 4-APs with linear side alkyl chains. Degradation of 4-APs, like that of BPA, involved the cytochrome p450 monooxygenase system in strain TYA-1. A sequencing batch bioreactor (100 mL of polluted water [50 mg/L BPA, 50 mg/L 4-tert-BP, and 5 mg/L 4-tert-OP]; 6 h of reaction time/cycle; 12 cycles in total) containing alginate-immobilized TYA-1 cells (15 mg dry cells) simultaneously removed BPA, 4-tert-BP, and 4-tert-OP from complex polluted waters. These immobilized TYA-1 cells could be reused for a total of 9 cycles without any loss of degradation activity. Our results support the potential of using immobilized TYA-1 cells for the simultaneous removal of BPA and 4-APs from complex polluted waters.
Enhanced denitrification with external carbon sources in a biological anoxic filter
Authors: Dong Wen-yi , Zhang Xian-bing , Wang Hong-jie , Sun Fei-yun , Liu Tong-zhou
Published: September 2012

Three parallel biological anoxic filters (BaFs) were operated to investigate the denitrification kinetics of methanol, brewery wastewater and bakery wastewater. The experiment was conducted within the temperature range of 15–20 °C, with an influent nitrate and carbon dosage of 30 mg/L and 150 mg COD/L (COD: chemical oxygen demand). The denitrification efficiencies of brewery wastewater, bakery wastewater and methanol were 84, 66 and 74%, specific denitrification rates were 1.44, 1.11 and 1.24 kg NO3-N/m3 d, and total nitrogen (TN) removal rates were 74, 62 and 66%, respectively. The volatile attached solid (VAS) tests reveal that methanol has the minimum net biomass yield, so it needs the least carbon to nitrogen (expressed in COD to nitrate, C/N) ratio for complete denitrification. While the brewery wastewater and bakery wastewater need higher C/N ratio to remove all nitrate nitrogen, and they both may need pretreatment to remove phosphate when used as external carbon sources.
A Psychological Profile of a Serial Killer: A Case Report
Authors: Dogra T. D. , Leenaars Antoon A. , Chadha R. K. , Manju Mehta , Lalwani Sanjeev , Sood Mamta , Lester David , Raina Anupuma , Behera C.
Published: September 2012

Serial killers have always fascinated society. A serial killer is typically defined as a perpetrator who murders three or more people over a period of time. Most reported cases of serial killers come from the United States and Canada. In India, there are few reported cases. We present, to the best of our knowledge, the first Indian case in the literature. The present case is of a 28-year-old man, Surinder Koli. The Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delphi handled the forensic study. We present a most unique psychological investigation into the mind of a serial killer.
Accounts of Suicidality in the Huntington Disease Community
Authors: Halpin Michael
Published: September 2012

Health professionals, researchers, and philosophers have debated extensively about suicide. Some believe suicides result from mental pathology, whereas others argue that individuals are capable of rational suicide. This debate is particularly poignant within illness communities, where individuals may be suffering from chronic and incurable conditions. This article engages with these issues by presenting the accounts of 20 individuals with Huntington disease (HD), a fatal degenerative condition, and 10 informal caregivers (e.g., spouses). Suicide is a leading cause of death amongst people with HD, with an incidence rate many times higher than the general population. In contrast to the majority of the academic literature on HD suicidality, study participants did not connect suicide with mental pathology. Instead, they perceived suicide as a response to the realities of living with HD, such as prolonged physiological degeneration and the need for long-term intensive health care. These findings are subsequently discussed in relation to the rational-pathological suicide binary.
Basic principles of laparoscopic appendectomy
Authors: Delibegovic Samir
Published: September 2012

Introduction. Laparoscopic appendectomy is one of the simplest laparoscopic
procedures, which is gradually becoming the method of choice in treatment of
acute appendicitis due to its advantages over open appendectomy. In
South-Eastern Europe the use of laparoscopic appendectomy is still very
limited although it is a very simple procedure, suitable for training
laparoscopic techniques. Technique of Laparoscopic Appendectomy. This review
article describes the position of the patient and surgical team during
laparoscopic appendectomy, position of troacars and working instruments which
result in expressive cosmetic effect, technique of laparoscopic appendectomy,
different ways of securing the base of appendix. Complications of
Laparoscopic Appendectomy. This review article describes management of
complicated appendicitis, and intra- and post-operative complications.
Conclusion. Laparoscopic appendectomy has many advantages over open
appendectomy. The risk of wound infection is lower, postoperative pain is
weaker and the hospital stay is shorter.
Stabilisation of lower denture using mini dental implants
Authors: Tadic Ana , Mirkovic Sinisa , Petronijevic Branislava , Jeremic-Knezevic Milica
Published: September 2012

Introduction. The role of the total lower denture is not only to replace the
missing teeth but also to provide the substitute for a range of supporting
tissues which have diminished due to the process of resorption, to
re-establish the original relations in the region of jaw complex, to support
the surrounding soft tissues which have lost their natural support, and,
moreover, to be unobtrusive and discrete substitution of lost functions.
Application of Mini-dental Implants. If anatomical conditions are
unfavorable, there is a wide range of oral-surgical pre-prosthetic procedures
which can be performed on both soft tissues and bone structures
(vestibuloplasty, alveolar ridge augmentation...) in order to enable proper
fabrication of the total lower denture to some extent. Having in mind the old
age of the patients, the majority of who suffer from chronic diseases such as
diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular problems, systemic diseases etc., these
procedures should be avoided because of the extent of the procedure, possible
systemic complications and prolonged therapy period. Conclusion. Most
recently, the application of titanium endosteal mini implants have proved to
be one of good solutions in overcoming unfavorable anatomical conditions
resulting in stability and retention of total lower dentures.
Identification of the Trichinella species by PCR method
Authors: Vasilev Sasa , Cvetkovic Jelena , Radovic Ivana , Sofronic-Milosavljevic Ljiljana
Published: September 2012

Serbia is country with a high prevalence of Trichinella infection in pigs,
which continues to be a serious human health problem. In Serbia, only a few
isolates of Trichinella found in pork have been genetically specified to
date, and all were proven as T. spiralis. New data shows that in the sylvatic
cycle in Serbia, at least in the Belgrade district, more than one Trichinella
species co-exist (T. spiralis and T. britovi). Increased awareness of the
possible overlap among sylvatic and domestic Trichinella cycles indicates the
need for continuous monitoring of Trichinella species circulation and
strongly points to the need that all isolates of Trichinella found in meat
for human consumption should be subject to a determination of the Trichinella
species (due to the risk of transmission of infection with T. britovi to
domestic pigs and humans). This is why we examined using PCR the Trichinella
larvae found in pig meat that caused a human outbreak (Trichinella infection)
in Grocka (Belgrade district) during February 2011. The isolated larvae
belonged to T. spiralis.
Assessment of dairy cow energy status using milk fat, protein and urea concentrations
Authors: Kirovski Danijela , Samanc Horea , Prodanovic Radisa
Published: September 2012

One of the ways to make an assessment of the energy status of cows in
lactation is to consider the results obtained from the evaluation of the
concentrations of organic milk components. The advantages of this method are
that the taking of milk samples is not stressful for the cow and that it is
also possible to use the results of milk examinations carried out by dairy
plants within regular control. A bulk milk sample from all individual cows
can be used, or an individual milk sample. In farms that have herds of
unequal genetic potential, it is preferable to assess the energy status by
analyzing the results for individual samples, because each animals is
assessed individually in that way. Furthermore, the use of individual milk
samples is recommended at newly-established farms in order to facilitate the
establishment of reference values for the herd. The energy status of cows is
assessed using the milk samples by analyzing fat, protein and urea
concentrations and their mutual ratios. Fat and protein concentrations in cow
milk vary depending on the breed, the diet, age, stage of lactation, and the
season of the year. A fat content lower than the physiological values can be
expected in cases of unfavourable diet of the cows during the period around
calving or rumen acidosis, and it can be expected to be higher during ketotic
conditions. A higher protein content in milk can be expected during a
high-protein, and a lower one during a low-protein diet of the cows. The
physiological concentration of urea in milk depends on nutritive factors, the
season, age, stage of lactation, and body mass. Specifically, older cows,
cows in advanced lactation, and cows in the summer period tend to have higher
values for urea concentration in milk. Among nutritive factors, the most
important is the ratio between energy and proteins in the cow feed ration. In
cases when protein content in milk is optimal or above the recommended values
but the energy supply is lower, the urea concentration increases to over the
range of physiological values. In the event that the feed ration is deficient
in both proteins and energy the urea content in milk drops. This work also
presents a model for assessing the energy status in cows by analyzing the
mutual ratios between the individual milk components (proteins and fat, or
urea and proteins) in the individual milk samples. It is possible to
determine the energy status of the animal on the basis of the ratio between
proteins and fat, and the supply of the cow with proteins and energy on the
basis of the ratio between urea and proteins.
Foot and mouth disease in turkey and middle eastern countries: Epizootiological situation
Authors: Stanojevic Slavoljub , Stanojevic Slobodan , Micovic Zoran , Plavsic Budimir
Published: September 2012

Periodic outbreaks of epizooties of foot-and-mouth disease in countries of
the Middle East and Africa pose a serious health threat to European states,
in particular countries of the Mediterranean region and the Balkan peninsula.
There are multiple reasons for the frequent appearance of this disease in
Africa and the territory of the Middle East, and they are all a consequence
of the insufficient development of the states in these geographic regions.
More precisely, epizooties of foot-and-mouth disease are difficult to control
in these regions due to the limited possibilities for activities by
veterinary services, insufficiently developed diagnostic capacities for
speedy and precise laboratory diagnostics, the lack of more advanced
knowledge among the village populations, and the traditional manner of
breeding ruminants. As a result of intensive traffic in goods, services and
people, the cultural and tourist links between the Middle East and European
countries, there is a constant and real danger of a swift and uncontrolled
spreading of foot-and-mouth disease to the territory of Europe. This is why
it is a priority of epizootiological services of the majority of European
countries constantly to monitor the epizootiological situation in the Middle
East and in Africa.
“Queer inclusion” in schools: Concept and controversy
Authors: Antonic Slobodan
Published: September 2012

Recently, there have arisen some requirements for ?queer inclusion? in
schools in Serbia. This article defines the term ?queer inclusion?, presents
some experiences in this field in the United States and Britain, and
considers the reasons commonly given as ?pros and cons? of queer inclusion.
The concluding part argues that effects of queer inclusion in schools are not
only positive, that there are many conceptual problems with it, and that
perhaps we ought to be much more careful with the campaign for introduction
of queer inclusion in the school system in Serbia.
Creativity of students’ stories: Case study at primary school
Authors: Maksic Slavica , Sevkusic Slavica
Published: September 2012

The paper explores a question relevant to educational practice: to what
extent are teachers? assessments of students? creative story writing reliable
and useful for gaining insight into students? creative production in this
domain, and for shaping and providing adequate support to creative potential
of young people at school setting. Participants in this study were sixth and
seventh grade primary school students who wrote stories (N=142), and teachers
who assessed creativity of these stories (N=3). A statistically significant,
but low agreement was found among teachers? assessments of the stories?
creativity. The teachers identified two groups of creativity indicators: the
first group refers to expression in the verbal domain (knowledge of language,
playing with language), while the other group refers to creativity in general
(originality, sentiment, ethic dimension). Case studies of four most creative
story writers failed to find a typical profile with critical contribution of
any indicator or precondition for their creative production. Narrative
analysis of the most creative stories confirmed the existence of those
indicators of creative potential which the teachers reported in their essays.
It is concluded that an individual approach in interpreting data on the
child? talents is necessary even at the primary school level. It is
recommended to combine qualitative and quantitative methods, which enables
obtaining data that would not be accessible by using only one or the other
approach.
A qualitative analysis of kindergarteners’ open-ended drawing and story telling opportunities
Authors: Pirtle Jody , Maker June
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this study was to identify and examine the themes in the
written productions of 114 kindergarten students. Participants were from two
schools in different regions in the United States and were given an
open-ended opportunity to draw and subsequently dictate a story. Content
analysis was performed and six themes emerged: (a) family, (b) inanimate
objects/personal belongings, (c) activities/events, (d) fantasy stories, (e)
self-talk/reflection, and (f) nature/outdoors. Comparative analysis was
performed for both gender and ethnicity and few differences were found
between boys? and girls? stories or across ethnicities. Recommendations were
included for teachers and families to allow young children more open-ended
literacy opportunities and future research to analyze children?s drawings and
stories between classrooms and across grade levels were included.
Nasal Irrigation as an Adjunctive Treatment in Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Hermelingmeier Kristina E. , Weber Rainer K. , Hellmich Martin , Heubach Christine P. , Mösges Ralph
Published: September 2012

Background

Saline nasal irrigation (SNI) is often recommended as additional nonpharmacologic treatment, having proven its efficacy in acute and chronic rhinosinusitis and for therapy after sinonasal surgery. To date, however, no systematic review or meta-analysis exists showing the influence of SNI on allergic rhinitis (AR). This study aimed to establish the impact of SNI on symptoms of AR in different patient groups.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ISI Web of Science databases for literature published from 1994 to 2010 on SNI in AR. Prospective, randomized, controlled trials that assessed the effects of SNI on four different outcome parameters were included. The evaluation focused on primary (symptom score) and secondary parameters (medicine consumption, mucociliary clearance, and quality of life).

Results

Three independent reviewers chose 10 originals that satisfied the inclusion criteria (>400 participants total) from 50 relevant trials. SNI performed regularly over a limited period of up to 7 weeks was observed to have a positive effect on all investigated outcome parameters in adults and children with AR. SNI produced a 27.66% improvement in nasal symptoms, a 62.1% reduction in medicine consumption, a 31.19% acceleration of mucociliary clearance time, and a 27.88% improvement in quality of life.

Conclusion

SNI using isotonic solution can be recommended as complementary therapy in AR. It is well tolerated, inexpensive, easy to use, and there is no evidence showing that regular, daily SNI adversely affects the patient's health or causes unexpected side effects.
Endoscopic Medial Maxillectomy with Preservation of Inferior Turbinate and Nasolacrimal Duct
Authors: Nakayama Tsuguhisa , Asaka Daiya , Okushi Tetsushi , Yoshikawa Mamoru , Moriyama Hiroshi , Otori Nobuyoshi
Published: September 2012

Background

Endoscopic medial maxillectomy (EMM) is a safe and effective procedure for treatment of inverted papilloma (IP) originating from the maxillary sinus. However, EMM usually removes the inferior turbinate and nasolacrimal duct. The inferior turbinate has a critical function in conditioning of the nasal airflow, and resection of the nasolacrimal ducts has a risk of epiphora. We developed a newly derived surgical technique, endoscopic modified medial maxillectomy (EMMM), which enables preservation of the inferior turbinate and nasolacrimal duct.

Methods

A retrospective case series of six patients with IP and nine patients with mucoceles of the maxillary sinus after a Caldwell-Luc operation, who underwent surgery using the EMMM technique, were reviewed.

Results

In patients with IP, there were no recurrences for a mean follow-up of 16.7 months. Eight of nine patients with mucoceles of the maxillary sinus showed patency. All patients showed preservation of the inferior turbinate. One patient with mucocele was referred for dacryocystorhinostomy because of epiphora.

Conclusion

EMMM produces access to the maxillary sinus identically to conventional EMM, despite preservation of the inferior turbinate and nasolacrimal duct.
Microwave Disinfection: Assessing the Risks of Irrigation Bottle and Fluid Contamination
Authors: Morong Sharon , Lee John M.
Published: September 2012

Background

It was previously shown that 50% of irrigation bottles and 40% of irrigation fluids had evidence of bacterial contamination despite cleaning with hot water and soap. Although a novel method of microwave disinfection has recently been proposed to minimize contamination risk, this has not been studied in a real life setting. This study investigates the effectiveness of microwave disinfection for reducing both nasal irrigation bottle and irrigation fluid contamination risk after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Methods

Twenty consecutive patients underwent ESS for chronic rhinosinusitis. Patients were given NeilMed Sinus Rinse bottles (NeilMed Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Santa Rosa CA) to use twice daily, with microwave cleaning instructions preoperatively. Bottles were collected and cultured 1 week postoperatively. Sterile saline (5 mL) was mixed into the irrigation bottle and cultured separately. An additional 10 patients were recruited whereby the bottle was cultured at collection and immediately after microwave disinfection was performed in the clinic.

Results

For the first cohort of the study, 40% of the bottles and 20% of the irrigation samples had positive cultures 1 week postoperatively. Common bacteria included Acinetobacter, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, and Gram-negative bacilli. For the second cohort of patients, 20% of the irrigation bottles had positive cultures. However, after supervised microwave disinfection, there was a 0% contamination rate.

Conclusion

Despite detailed instructions on microwave disinfection, positive bacterial cultures may still occur after ESS. This risk, however, appears to be significantly reduced when bottles are microwaved under supervision. These findings suggest either a reduced patient compliance to cleaning or a time-dependent recontamination risk after disinfection.
The Role of Fungi in Diseases of the Nose and Sinuses
Authors: Soler Zachary M. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Human exposure to fungal elements is inevitable, with normal respiration routinely depositing fungal hyphae within the nose and paranasal sinuses. Fungal species can cause sinonasal disease, with clinical outcomes ranging from mild symptoms to intracranial invasion and death. There has been much debate regarding the precise role fungal species play in sinonasal disease and optimal treatment strategies.

Methods

A literature review of fungal diseases of the nose and sinuses was conducted.

Results

Presentation, diagnosis, and current management strategies of each recognized form of fungal rhinosinusitis was reviewed.

Conclusion

Each form of fungal rhinosinusitis has a characteristic presentation and clinical course, with the immune status of the host playing a critical pathophysiological role. Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment strategies are necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.
Adolescents’ Daily Activities and the Restorative Niches that Support Them
Authors: Roe Jenny J. , Aspinall Peter A.
Published: September 2012

This paper explores wellbeing from the perspective of the psychological dynamics underlying adolescents’ relationship with place. It uses a dynamic model of wellbeing called personal project analysis (PPA) which captures the concept of ‘flourishing’, defined as functioning well in your activities, strivings and interactions with the world [1]. Using PPA methods we identified adolescents’ daily activities and the ‘restorative niches’ that best support them. A series of settings (including home, urban and natural outdoor places) were explored using PPA with 45 young people (aged 11–13) living in Edinburgh, Central Scotland. Participants were asked to think of eight projects of current importance to them, to say where the project took place and to rate each project against a series of core wellbeing dimensions measuring project meaning, manageability, support and affect (how much fun, stress etc.). Latent class analysis was carried out to explore clusters—or sub-groups—in the data and to identify the significant discriminators between clusters. A three-cluster model produced the best fit with project type, project place and wellbeing indicators (fun and stress) significantly discriminating between the three clusters. The three clusters were labeled by their dominant environmental context, ‘faraway’ (e.g., beach, national parks, hills), ‘everyday’ (e.g., home, school, local streets) and ‘citywide’ (e.g., sport settings, urban town context). ‘Faraway’ and ‘citywide’ clusters had a significantly higher wellbeing content, especially for fun and stress; the ‘everyday’ cluster indicated local environs remain a dominant project place for this age group, but are associated with greater stress. We compare findings with adults and suggest that outdoor settings further afield from home have greater significance within adolescent project systems, but that support is needed to facilitate access to these places.
Multiscale Models of the Antimicrobial Peptide Protegrin-1 on Gram-Negative Bacteria Membranes
Authors: Bolintineanu Dan S. , Vivcharuk Victor , Kaznessis Yiannis N.
Published: September 2012

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are naturally-occurring molecules that exhibit strong antibiotic properties against numerous infectious bacterial strains. Because of their unique mechanism of action, they have been touted as a potential source for novel antibiotic drugs. We present a summary of computational investigations in our lab aimed at understanding this unique mechanism of action, in particular the development of models that provide a quantitative connection between molecular-level biophysical phenomena and relevant biological effects. Our work is focused on protegrins, a potent class of AMPs that attack bacteria by associating with the bacterial membrane and forming transmembrane pores that facilitate the unrestricted transport of ions. Using fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, we have computed the thermodynamics of peptide-membrane association and insertion, as well as peptide aggregation. We also present a multi-scale analysis of the ion transport properties of protegrin pores, ranging from atomistic molecular dynamics simulations to mesoscale continuum models of single-pore electrodiffusion to models of transient ion transport from bacterial cells. Overall, this work provides a quantitative mechanistic description of the mechanism of action of protegrin antimicrobial peptides across multiple length and time scales.