bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of Intraluminal and Intraperitoneal microdialysis in ischemic small intestine
Authors: Pynnönen Lauri , Minkkinen Minna , Perner Anders , Räty Sari , Nordback Isto , Sand Juhani , Tenhunen Jyrki
Published: December 2013

Background

We sought to define the sensitivity and specificity of intraperitoneal (IP) and intraluminal (IL) microdialysate metabolites in depicting ex vivo small intestinal total ischemia during GI-tract surgery. We hypothesized that IL as opposed to IP microdialysis detects small intestinal ischemia with higher sensitivity and specificity.

Methods

IL and IP microdialysate lactate, pyruvate, glucose and glycerol were analysed from small intestine of pancreaticoduodenectomy patients before and after occluding the mesenteric vasculature and routine resection of a segment of small intestine. Ex vivo time sequences of microdialysate metabolites were described and ROC analyses after 0–30, 31–60, 61–90 and 91–120 minutes after the onset ischemia were calculated.

Results

IL lactate to pyruvate ratio (L/P ratio) indicated ischemia after 31–60 minutes with 0.954 ROC AUC (threshold: 109) in contrast to IP L/P (ROC AUC of 0.938 after 61–90 minutes, threshold: 18). At 31–60 minutes IL glycerol concentration indicated ischemia with 0.903 ROC AUCs (thresholds: 69 μmol/l). IP glycerol was only moderately indicative for ischemia after 91–120 minutes with 0,791 ROC AUCs (threshold 122 μmol/l). After 31–60 minutes IL and IP lactate to glucose ratios (L/G ratio) indicated ischemia with 0.956 and 0,942 ROC AUCs (thresholds: 48,9 and 0.95), respectively.

Conclusions

The results support the hypothesis that intraluminal application of microdialysis and metabolic parameters from the small intestinal lumen indicate onset of ischemia earlier than intraperioneal microdialysis with higher sensitivity and specificity.
Antibiotic use and resistance in emerging economies: a situation analysis for Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen Kinh Van , Thi Do Nga Thuy , Chandna Arjun , Nguyen Trung Vu , Pham Ca Van , Doan Phuong Mai , Nguyen An Quoc , Thi Nguyen Chuc Kim , Larsson Mattias , Escalante Socorro , Olowokure Babatunde , Laxminarayan Ramanan , Gelband Hellen , Horby Peter , Thi Ngo Ha Bich , Hoang Mai Thanh , Farrar Jeremy , Hien Tran Tinh , Wertheim Heiman FL
Published: December 2013

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is a major contemporary public health threat. Strategies to contain antimicrobial resistance have been comprehensively set forth, however in developing countries where the need for effective antimicrobials is greatest implementation has proved problematic. A better understanding of patterns and determinants of antibiotic use and resistance in emerging economies may permit more appropriately targeted interventions.

Viet Nam, with a large population, high burden of infectious disease and relatively unrestricted access to medication, is an excellent case study of the difficulties faced by emerging economies in controlling antimicrobial resistance.

Methods

Our working group conducted a situation analysis of the current patterns and determinants of antibiotic use and resistance in Viet Nam. International publications and local reports published between 1-1-1990 and 31-8-2012 were reviewed. All stakeholders analyzed the findings at a policy workshop and feasible recommendations were suggested to improve antibiotic use in Viet Nam.

Here we report the results of our situation analysis focusing on: the healthcare system, drug regulation and supply; antibiotic resistance and infection control; and agricultural antibiotic use.

Results

Market reforms have improved healthcare access in Viet Nam and contributed to better health outcomes. However, increased accessibility has been accompanied by injudicious antibiotic use in hospitals and the community, with predictable escalation in bacterial resistance. Prescribing practices are poor and self-medication is common – often being the most affordable way to access healthcare. Many policies exist to regulate antibiotic use but enforcement is insufficient or lacking.

Pneumococcal penicillin-resistance rates are the highest in Asia and carbapenem-resistant bacteria (notably NDM-1) have recently emerged. Hospital acquired infections, predominantly with multi-drug resistant Gram-negative organisms, place additional strain on limited resources. Widespread agricultural antibiotic use further propagates antimicrobial resistance.

Conclusions

Future legislation regarding antibiotic access must alter incentives for purchasers and providers and ensure effective enforcement. The Ministry of Health recently initiated a national action plan and approved a multicenter health improvement project to strengthen national capacity for antimicrobial stewardship in Viet Nam. This analysis provided important input to these initiatives. Our methodologies and findings may be of use to others across the world tackling the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
Factors associated with pretreatment and treatment dropouts: comparisons between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal clients admitted to medical withdrawal management
Authors: Li Xin , Sun Huiying , Marsh David C , Anis Aslam H
Published: December 2013

Background

Addiction treatment faces high pretreatment and treatment dropout rates, especially among Aboriginals. In this study we examined characteristic differences between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal clients accessing an inpatient medical withdrawal management program, and identified risk factors associated with the probabilities of pretreatment and treatment dropouts, respectively.

Methods

2231 unique clients (Aboriginal = 451; 20%) referred to Vancouver Detox over a two-year period were assessed. For both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal groups, multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted with pretreatment dropout and treatment dropout as dependent variables, respectively.

Results

Aboriginal clients had higher pretreatment and treatment dropout rates compared to non-Aboriginal clients (41.0% vs. 32.7% and 25.9% vs. 20.0%, respectively). For Aboriginal people, no fixed address (NFA) was the only predictor of pretreatment dropout. For treatment dropout, significant predictors were: being female, having HCV infection, and being discharged on welfare check issue days or weekends. For non-Aboriginal clients, being male, NFA, alcohol as a preferred substance, and being on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) at referral were associated with pretreatment dropout. Significant risk factors for treatment dropout were: being younger, having a preferred substance other than alcohol, having opiates as a preferred substance, and being discharged on weekends.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the importance of social factors for the Aboriginal population compared to substance-specific factors for the non-Aboriginal population. These findings should help clinicians and decision-makers to recognize the importance of social supports especially housing and initiate appropriate services to improve treatment intake and subsequent retention, physical and mental health outcomes and the cost-effectiveness of treatment.
Assessment of the loading history of patients after high tibial osteotomy using SPECT/CT - a new diagnostic tool and algorithm
Authors: Mucha Armin , Dordevic Milos , Testa Enrique A , Rasch Helmut , Hirschmann Michael T
Published: December 2013

Background

Single photon emission computerized tomography and conventional computerized tomography (SPECT/CT) tracer uptake has been shown to reflect the loading history of the tibiofemoral knee joint and correlate with the mechanical and anatomical alignment. It was our primary purpose to develop a novel standardized SPECT/CT algorithm for patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy, evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability (OR), and assess the clinical applicability for follow-up of patients before and after high tibial osteotomy.

Methods

The localization scheme defines 9 femoral, 8 patellar, and 13 tibial zones to accurately map the examined tracer uptake volume in each anatomical area of interest. Maximum values for each area (mean ± standard deviation, median, and range) of the localization scheme were recorded as well as normalized values for the intensity of SPECT/CT tracer uptake calculated. The inter- and intra-OR was assessed for SPECT/CT localization and tracer activity. Pre- and postoperative mechanical alignment was assessed in SPECT/CT using a custom-made specialized software. The median inter- and intra-observer differences of the measured mechanical alignment were calculated along with the inter- and intra-OR.

Results

The localization scheme showed near-perfect inter- and intra-OR (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.9) for the measurement of tracer activity and localization in all anatomical regions. For measurements of mechanical alignment, there was a strong agreement between the two observers (an inter-OR of ICC = 0.99 and an intra-OR of ICC = 0.98).

Conclusions

The presented SPECT/CT algorithm is highly reliable and clinically feasible. Combined with mechanical alignment analysis, it provides the surgeon with helpful information about realignment effects of high tibial osteotomies (HTOs) and might help identify the optimal personalized degree of correction in HTO surgery.
Optimizing recruitment to a prostate cancer surveillance program among male BRCA1 mutation carriers: invitation by mail or by telephone
Authors: Galor Anna , Cybulski Cezary , Lubiński Jan , Narod Steven A , Gronwald Jacek
Published: December 2013

The effectiveness of a genetics-based public health screening programs depend on the successful recruitment of subjects who qualify for intensified screening by virtue of a positive genetic test. Herein we compare the effectiveness of a mailed invitation and follow-up phone call for non-responding subjects and an initial invitation by telephone addressed to male BRCA1 mutation carriers for prostate screening.

The final participation rate was 75% (42 of 56) for men who were initially contacted by mail (and follow-up phone call) and 81% (30 of 37) for men who were initially contacted by telephone. Among the men who were initially contacted by mail, it was necessary to telephone 54% of these patients (30 of 56).

After a calculation of the cost-effectiveness related to these results, we conclude that if the costs of the phone call were to exceed the costs of the letter by 2.5 times or more, then savings would be arranged by initiating contact with a mailed invitation.
Making Contact: Contingency, Fantasy, and the Performance of Impossible Intimacies in the Video Art of Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook
Authors: Fuhrmann Arnika
Published: December 2013

This article examines contemporary Thai artist Araya Rasdjarmrearnsook's video work on death since 1997. Investigating Araya's willed, long-term artistic history of intimacy and exchange with the dead, the article focuses not on the artwork's relation to mourning but rather on how the artist sketches out a feminist anatomy of desire in an idiom of negativity. In close connection, it examines the artist's explicit pedagogic intent to initiate public discussions on femininity and sexuality in Thailand. In her video performances, the artist reads passages from Thai classical literature or from her own erotic writing and sings to, converses with, and dresses corpses in a morgue. While these works situate longing and sexuality in a highly abstracted and dehistoricized domain, the article argues that Araya's video installations nevertheless proffer critiques of women's current erotic possibilities and that they may further be read to defamiliarize popular conventions of depicting female death as well as Buddhist forms of engaging with the dead in Thailand.
Real-time sensing of hepatitis B virus X gene using an ultrasensitive nanowire field effect transistor
Authors: Wu Chia-Yu , Cheng Han-Yi , Ou Keng-Liang , Wu Chi-Chang
Published: December 2013

Devices based on semiconducting nanowires (NWs) are functioning as highly sensitive and selective sensors for the label-free detection of biological and chemical species. This paper demonstrates a novel back-gated silicon NW field effect transistor (NWFET) for gene detection. The fabricated NWFET was employed as the biomolecule sensor for the early, real-time, and label-free screening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) X gene. The DNA fragment in HBV demonstrates the linearity from 10 fM to 1 pM, of which the detection limit is estimated to be about 3.2 fM. The obtained results also show that the NW-based sensor can distinguish the difference between the complementary and 1-base mismatch DNA. The back-gated NW FET exhibits a label-free, highly sensitive, and selective biosensor for gene detection, which also provides a possibility of multiple chemical and biological species detection with sensor array in an integrated chip.
Increasing prevalence of Addison's disease in German females: health insurance data 2008–2012
Authors: Meyer Gesine , Neumann Kathrin , Badenhoop Klaus , Linder Roland
Published: December 2013

Objective

Our objective was to investigate the epidemiology of autoimmune Addison's disease (AD) in Germany.

Design

Routine data were analyzed from the Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) database of the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) for an observation period from 01/01/2008 to 31/12/2012. The TK is one of the largest German health care insurance providers covering more than 10% of the German population.

Subjects and methods

Between 2008 and 2012, a total of 2477 diagnoses of primary adrenal failure were recorded in the SHI database. After exclusion of secondary, iatrogenic or other non-idiopathic forms and after adjustment for incomplete data sets, 1364 diagnoses of autoimmune-mediated AD remained.

Results

The prevalence of AD in our cohort showed a steady increase from 82 per million in 2008 to 87 per million in 2012. On average, the prevalence rose about 1.8% per year, and due to a pronounced increase (2.7%) in females. The prevalence was lower in men (63–68 per million) than in women (96–108 per million). Autoimmune comorbidities were found in 46.5% of AD patients. Adrenal crises were documented with a frequency of 14–17/100 patient years.

Conclusions

These data provide a first epidemiological profile of this rare and perilous endocrine disease in Germany. Although the prevalence of AD appears lower than in the Scandinavian countries, the increasing figures in females over the last 5 years warrant further investigations. Furthermore, adrenal crises pose a considerable burden. Hereby, we can show that health insurance data provide a valuable tool for epidemiological studies in the absence of national registries.
Correction of vitamin D insufficiency with combined strontium ranelate and vitamin D3 in osteoporotic patients
Authors: Rizzoli R , Dawson-Hughes B , Kaufman J-M , Fardellone P , Brandi M L , Vellas B , Collette J , Reginster J-Y
Published: December 2013

Objective

This study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of oral fixed-dose combination of strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU daily vs strontium ranelate 2 g daily for correcting vitamin D insufficiency in osteoporosis.

Design

A 6-month international, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, phase 3 study.

Methods

A total of 518 men and postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years with primary osteoporosis (T-score ≤−2.5s.d.) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) >22.5 nmol/l were included. Patients were allocated to strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU daily (n=413) or strontium ranelate 2 g daily (n=105). The participants received calcium 1 g daily. The primary endpoint was serum 25(OH)D at last post-baseline evaluation during 3 months.

Results

Both groups were comparable at baseline. Mean baseline of 25(OH)D was 44.1±14.6 nmol/l. After 3 months, the percentage of patients with 25(OH)D ≥50 nmol/l was higher with strontium ranelate/vitamin D3vs strontium ranelate (84 vs 44%,P<0.001; adjusted between-group odds ratio=6.7; 95% CI, 4.2–10.9). The efficacy of the fixed-dose combination on 25(OH)D was maintained at 6 months (86 vs 40%,P<0.001). Mean 25(OH)D was 65.1 and 49.5 nmol/l, respectively, after 3 months and 66.9 and 45.4 nmol/l after 6 months. Physical performance improved in both groups. Falls were 17 and 20% in the strontium ranelate/vitamin D3and strontium ranelate groups respectively. Parathyroid hormone levels were inversely correlated with 25(OH)D. No clinically relevant differences in safety were observed.

Conclusions

This study confirms the efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combination of strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU for correction of vitamin D insufficiency in osteoporotic patients.
Mechano growth factor E peptide regulates migration and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Cui Hanwei , Yi Qian , Feng Jianguo , Yang Li , Tang Liling
Published: December 2013

IGF1Ec in humans or IGF1Eb in rodents (known as mechano growth factor (MGF)) has a unique E domain, and the C-terminal end of the E domain (MGF E peptide) plays important roles in proliferation, migration and differentiation of many cell types. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have multiple differentiation potentials and are considered as perfect seed cells for tissue repair. But the role of MGF E peptide on BMSCs is seldom investigated and the mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of MGF E peptide on rat BMSCs (rBMSCs). Our results revealed that treatment with MGF E peptide had no effect on BMSC proliferation. However, both wound-healing and transwell assays indicated that MGF E peptide could significantly enhance rBMSCs migration ability. Further analysis indicated that MGF E peptide also reduced the expression levels of osteogenic genes, but increased the expression levels of adipogenic genes. Analysis of molecular mechanism showed that phosphorylation-Erk1/2 was activated by MGF E peptide and blockage of either Erk1/2 or IGF1 receptor could repress the migration effect of MGF E peptide. In conclusion, MGF E peptide is able to inhibit osteogenic differentiation but promote adipogenic differentiation. In addition, the migration effect of MGF E peptide on rBMSCs depends on IGF1 receptor via Erk1/2 signal pathway.
2-Arachidonoylglycerol effects in cytotrophoblasts: metabolic enzymes expression and apoptosis in BeWo cells
Authors: Costa M A , Fonseca B M , Keating E , Teixeira N A , Correia-da-Silva G
Published: December 2013

The major endocannabinoid (eCB) 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is a member of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that participates in cell proliferation and apoptosis, important events for the homoeostasis of biological systems. The formation of placenta is one of the most important stages of pregnancy and its development requires highly regulated proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of trophoblasts. Anomalies in these processes are associated with gestational pathologies. In this work, we aimed to study the involvement of 2-AG in cytotrophoblast cell turnover. We found that 2-AG biosynthetic (diacylglycerol lipase A) and degradative (monoacylglycerol lipase) enzymes are expressed in human cytotrophoblasts and in BeWo cells. We also found that 2-AG induces a decrease in cell viability in a time- and concentration-dependent manner and exerts antiproliferative effects. The loss of cell viability induced by a 48-h treatment with 2-AG (10 μM) was accompanied by chromatin fragmentation and condensation, morphological features of apoptosis. Additionally, 2-AG induced an increase in caspase 3/7 and 9 activities, a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) generation, suggesting the activation of the mitochondrial pathway. Moreover, whereas Δψm loss and ROS/RNS generation were significantly attenuated by the antagonists of both the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), the increase in caspase 3/7 and 9 activities and loss of cell viability were reversed only by the antagonist of CB2 receptor; the blockage of the eCB membrane transporter and the depletion of cholesterol failed to reverse the effects of 2-AG. Therefore, this work supports the importance of cannabinoid signalling during cytotrophoblast cell turnover and that its deregulation may be responsible for altered placental development and poor pregnancy outcomes.
Impact of copper back contact in CdTe solar cells: study of defects by temperature-dependent capacitance–voltage measurements
Authors: Kharangarh Poonam R. , Georgiou George E. , Chin Ken K.
Published: December 2013

Copper diffusion from back contact creates semishallow and deep-level defects in n+-CdS/p-CdTe solar cells. This study analyzes the impact of copper as a function of annealing temperatures during back contact formation. The observed defect levels, formed after copper diffusion, were identified by employing the temperature-dependent capacitance–voltage (C-V) characteristics at reverse bias in the dark. Theoretical background involving recombination centers, defect density and the role of impurity defects (copper-related defects) suggests that the temperature-dependent C-V profiling is a suitable technique to investigate the copper-related defects. Samples, annealed at 160°C for 30 min, show only one energy level, whereas samples annealed at 280ºC for 30 min reveal two distinct deep levels. From the reported observations, the trap levels were identified as copper-related defects. Variation in annealing temperature can impact the defect formation process: substitutional impurities of copper (160°C) and deep levels (280°C).
Development of a cassette-panel transpired solar collector
Authors: Hall Richard , Kendrick Christopher , Lawson R Mark
Published: December 2013

Transpired solar collectors (TSCs) are an elegantly simple, façade-integrated solar air-heating technology that is widely used to pre-heat the ventilation air supply of buildings. TSCs have historically been manufactured from long profiled pre-finished steel cladding sheets and used on industrial buildings, with which they are aesthetically compatible. Buildings such as offices and multi-storey residential buildings, however, often use flat building façade elements. In order to provide architects with the choice between a profiled or flat TSC absorber, which may be more suitable aesthetically in some circumstances, a novel, flat, cassette-panel TSC (CP-TSC) solar air-heating system has been developed and trialled in situ. Two prototype CP-TSC systems were installed onto an unoccupied 1960s multi-storey residential building at Oxford Brookes University and operated for 95 days during the winter of 2010/2011. The results show that under typical operating conditions, the CP-TSCs heated the ventilation air stream by 10–15°C on clear-skied, winter days, and that this air temperature rise can be predicted by a relatively simple energy balance model.
Haloperidol Cytotoxicity and Its Relation to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Raudenska Martina , Gumulec Jaromir , Babula Petr , Stracina Tibor , Sztalmachova Marketa , Polanska Hana , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene , Novakova Marie , Masarik Michal
Published: December 2013

Haloperidol (HP) is used for the symptomatic treatment of psychosis, manic phases, hyperactivity, aggressiveness,
and acute delirium. Long-term use leads to various adverse side effects, especially to severe impairment of extrapyramidal
nerve tracts and in particular, altered QT interval and increased incidence of arrhytmias. It is believed that cytotoxicity of
HP and its metabolites is responsible for both neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. Extrapyramidal and cardiac adverse side
effects may be explained by the HP-induced oxidative stress, as implicated by many studies. HP was reported to induce
lipid peroxidation with subsequent membrane changes, responsible for cell death. Vice versa, cells resistant to oxidative
stress are also resistant to the toxic effects of HP. Similarly, high percentage of patients suffering from extrapyramidal
symptoms treated by vitamin E and other lipid-soluble antioxidants demonstrates diminishing of these adverse side
effects. HP’s ability to induce oxidative stress by multi-modal action (increased metabolism of dopamine, decrease of
glutathione content, induction of NF-κ.B transcription factor, and inhibition of complex I of respiratory chain) has been
established just recently. This review brings summarizing view on the cytotoxicity of haloperidol and involvement of
reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress HP-induced cytotoxicity.
Influence of Different Post-Core Systems on Impact Stress: a Pilot Study
Authors: Kondoh Yoshihiro , Takeda Tomotaka , Ozawa Takamitsu , Narimatsu Keishiro , Konno Michiyo , Fujii Toshiki , Sekiguchi Chieko , Nakajima Kazunori , Ishigami Keiichi , Shomura Masahito
Published: December 2013

This pilot study compared impact strain at the core and root surfaces between two different post-core systems.

Materials and Methods:

The form of a bovine mandibular front tooth was modified to resemble that of a human maxillary incisor as a test specimen. A cast post and core (Metal PC) and composite resin and glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin post (Fiber-Resin PC) system were tested. Four gauges were affixed to the buccal and lingual surfaces of the core and root. The specimens were then embedded in a metal mold using dental stone. A pendulum-type device with a pyramid-shaped metal impact object with a titanium alloy head was used to provide 2 different shock forces. Maximum distortion was measured and analyzed.

Results:

Distortion at the core at each measurement point and total amount of distortion with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly greater (p<0.05) than that with Metal PC against both impact forces. On the other hand, distortion at the root at the buccal measurement point with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly less than that with Metal PC against both impact forces. Total distortion was significantly less with Fiber-Resin PC than that with Metal PC against the greater impact shock. Acceleration with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly less than that with Metal PC against both impact forces.

Conclusion:

Fiber-Resin PC has the potential to protect remaining root against traumatic force. This suggests that a Fiber-Resin PC is more suitable for non-vital teeth against not only occlusal but also traumatic impact force.
Neuroendocrine tumors of gastrointestinal tract: The paradigm that lasts
Authors: Bjelovic Milos , Babic Tamara
Published: December 2013

Historically, the tumors that were morphologically different and clinically
less agressive than the more common gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas were
clasified under carcinoid tumors. However, the development of molecular
biology tehniques revealed the heterogeneity of these tumors on cellular and
subcellular level and ther different biological behaviour. Neuroendocrine
tumors of gastrointestinal tract originated from neuroendocrine cells
scaterred across the gastrointestinal mucosa. As a result these tumors were
capable of secreting many different neurotransmiters, which may or may not be
biologically active. The incidence of gastrointestinal NETs has been
incresing over the last 2 to 3 decades. Patients often presented with vague,
nonspecific symptoms which resulted in delayed diagnosis and adequate
treatment. In this article, we discuss the nature of gastrointestinal NETs,
clinical presentation, treatment options and prognosis.
Procena stepena bubrezne insuficijencije kod pacijenata podvrgnutih ilealnom konduitu kao vidu derivacije urina u odnosu na vrstu insercije uretera
Authors: Dzamic Z.M. , Kajmakovic B.M. , Pejcic T. , Milkovic B. , Acimovic M. , Djurasic Lj. , Hadzi-Djokic J.
Published: December 2013

Ileal conduit as a form supravesical derivaton, is still one of most popular
method of urinary diversion, in daily urological practice. Bearing in mind
this fact, this type of diversion, rightfully so, is also called the "gold
standard" in the derivation of urine. Considering the fact of unnatural route
of elimination of urine from the upper urinary tract that occurs during
creation of ileal conduit, it is reasonable to expect that, in time, this
type of diversion lead to some degree of renal insufficiency. Some authors,
this effect on renal function, attribute to specific type of
ureterointestinal anastomosis during formation of ileal conduit1,2. A very
important part of the surgical technique of creating ileal conduit is
precisely a step of implantation ureters into the intestinal segment. The
ultimate goal is to enable a more natural way of evacuation of urine from the
upper urinary tract in terms of maintaining the quality of renal function.
Numerous authors describes a quite number of techniques of ureteral
implantation into the intestinal segment (Wallace A, Wallace B,
Nesbit-Bricker, Le Duc ...)3,4. Each of these techniques has its own
strengths and weaknesses, and the decision witch technique will be applied is
still in the hand of urologist - operator, individually. Bearing in mind the
fact of unnatural route of elimination of urine from the upper urinary tract
that occurs during creation of ileal conduit, it is reasonable to expect that
the renal function over the time will start to show signs of incipient or
advanced failure 5,6,7,8. Objective: To determine the most appropriate type
ureterointestinal anastomosis in forming ileal conduit, as a form of
supravesical urinary diversion, to ensure adequate renal function
postoperatively as an important parameter of quality of life. Methods and
patients: This is a retrospective study, which covered a population of 193
patients treated at the Department of Urology, Clinical Center of Serbia, who
underwent creation of ileal conduit as a form of urinary diversion. The study
was conducted 2007. - 2011. Postoperative follow-up lasts up to 48 months.
The assess of the level of renal insufficiency were analyzed by monitoring
parameters which determine the degree of anemia, and biochemical parameters
of renal function. We have investigated three techniques of insertion of the
ureters into the ileal conduit, which are used in the daily practice (Wallace
A, Wallace B, Nesbit-Bricker). Conclusion: Kidney failure occurs equally
often in all patients who underwent urinary diversion by ileal conduit,
ignoring the type of insertion of the ureters to the intestinal segment.
The effect of neoplastic disease and systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy
Authors: Paunovic Milorad
Published: December 2013

Dehiscence after laparotomy is one of the major complications of laparotomy.
This is a partial or complete wound with disruption and evisceratio abdominal
organs and require urgent reintervention. The aim of this study was to
determine the impact of neoplastic disease and systemic disease of connective
tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. A prospective study were
included 612 patients operated at the Clinic for General Surgery in Nis in
the period from January 2009 to December 2010. The effect of neoplastic
disease and the presence of systemic disease of connective tissue on the
occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. Results are displayed numerically and in
percentages. Of the total 24 patients with dehiscence laparotomy, 15 patients
were male or 62.5% and 9 female patients, or 37,5%. There was a statistically
significant association between dehiscence laparotomy and neoplastic diseases
(c2 =42,196; p<0,01). There was no statistically significant association
between dehiscence laparotomy and systemic disease of connective tissue (c2=
0,028; p>0,05). In patients with neoplastic diseases dehiscence laparotomy is
common, and in patients suffering from systemic disease of connective tissue
dehiscence laparotomy occurs less frequently.
How to treat complex regional pain syndrome in rehabilitation settings?
Authors: Nedeljkovic Una
Published: December 2013

Complex regional pain syndrome is chronic neuropatic pain condition which
usually arise after trauma. It is associated with some of the sensory,
vasomotor, sudomotor, motor and trophic symptoms and sings. Due to
variability of symptoms and long-lasting pain, these patients are hard to
rehabilitate. They exhibit activity related fear and so have pronounced
functional limitations. Adequate rehabilitation procedures, frequently long
lasting, are essential for their optimal recovery, so rehabilitation
specialist should constantly update their knowledge on this issue. Emerging
researches on pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of CRPS created a need
for systematization of current body of evidence. Available researches on
efficacy of different treatment options are still insufficient to create
precise therapy guidelines, so future researches are needed in order to
promote better rehabilitation outcomes.
The case of the diverticular bladder tumor treated with diverticulectomy
Authors: Pejcic T. , Dzamic Z. , Dimitrijevic V. , Acimovic M. , Hadzi-Djokic J.
Published: December 2013

Introduction: The majority of diverticular bladder tumors (DBT) are
urothelial. Due to the lack of the muscular layer in the diverticulum, the
progression of these tumors is easier than in the bladder wall. Case report:
The case of invasive DBT with painless hematuria is presented. The patient
was treated with diverticulectomy. Conclusion: Unifocal Stage-T3 DBTs can be
successfully treated with diverticulectomy.
Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the urinary bladder
Authors: Cekerevac Milica , Mitrovic Dragan , Vuksanovic Aleksandar , Tulic Cane , Dundjerovic Dusko , Vjestica Jelena , Markovic-Lipkovski Jasmina
Published: December 2013

Among neuroendocrine tumors of the urinary bladder, small cell carcinoma
(SCCB) is the most common one. Less frequent is carcinoid tumour and very
rare is a largecell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Small cell neuroendocrine
carcinoma is a very aggressive tumour, with major frequency in the seventh
decade. In 95% of patients it presents with hematuria and muscle invasive
disease. A case of a patient with the urinary bladder tumour, which had
muscle invasion and extension in perivesical tissue, was presented. The
patient was diagnosed with combined form of the tumour, consisting of small
cell and squamous cell patterns. Some of the imunochistochemical markers used
in diagnosis were chromogranin A, synaptophysin, cytokeratins, LCA and Ki-67.
Consequently, neuroendocrine differentiation of small cell patterns of the
tumour was proven. Neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by
radical resection should be considered as the treatment of choice in
surgically resectabile SCCB. Because of that it is essential to make
histopathologic diagnosis of SCCB in transuretral tumour samples using,
chromogranin A or synapthysin.
Reflections on a Decade of SOX 404(b) Audit Production and Alternatives
Authors: Kinney William R. , Martin Roger D. , Shepardson Marcy L.
Published: December 2013

SYNOPSIS

Since passage of the quickly finalized Sarbanes-Oxley Act during July 2002, audit production in the U.S. has been substantially expanded by mandated internal control audits. The control audit mandate is unique to the U.S. and costly to apply, yet little is known about the conduct of control audits or the efficacy of lower-cost alternatives. This paper reflects our overall knowledge about control audit production and observation of a consistent message across public and limited non-public archival data, analytical studies, and numerous personal experiences of audit practitioners. Our primary observation is that, absent any financial misstatement, auditors find it difficult to identify material weaknesses in control design. Conversely, when auditors know about misstatements they can, and do, detect related material weaknesses and thereby identify most public companies found by mandated control audits to have ineffective controls. Thus, it appears possible to exploit this observation to identify and publicly disclose most companies with weak controls without incurring the cost of full internal control audits. We believe that U.S. markets could benefit from more transparency about the current U.S. audit production process and from informed debate about the best mechanism design for balancing the needs of all parties interested in internal control quality disclosure.
The Changing Landscape of Banking and the Challenges It Poses for Accounting and Financial Reporting
Authors: Landsman Wayne R. , Peasnell Kenneth V.
Published: December 2013

SYNOPSIS

This paper summarizes changes that have taken place in banking, the attendant financial innovations, and the challenges these innovations pose for accounting standard setters and regulators. We focus on asset securitizations and the difficulties in accounting for such transactions, in particular their option-like features, and discuss how such option-like features appear in many financial contracts. We discuss ways that such difficulties can be addressed and conclude that a purely recognition-and-measurement approach is likely to be problematic. This suggests that the FASB's approach of requiring an increasing amount of supplementary disclosure relating to the risks faced by banks may be the best solution.
Orthodontic bonding to porcelain: A systematic review
Authors: Grewal Bach Gursimrit K. , Torrealba Ysidora , Lagravère Manuel O.
Published: December 2013

Objective:

To use a systematic review to determine which materials and technique/protocol present the highest success rate in bonding brackets to porcelain surfaces.

Materials and Methods:

Different databases were searched without limitations up to July 2013. Additionally, the bibliographies of the finally selected articles were hand searched to identify any relevant publications that were not identified earlier. In vitro and in vivo articles were included.

Results:

No in vivo articles were found that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A total of 45 in vitro articles met all inclusion criteria. They were published between 2000 to July 2013.

Conclusions:

The best protocol described in this review is the etching of 9.6% hydrofluoric acid for 1 minute, rinsed for 30 seconds, and then air-dried. The etching of hydrofluoric acid should be followed by an application of silane. Considering the harmful effects of etching with hydrofluoric acid, another appropriate suggestion is mechanical roughening with sandblasting followed by an application of silane.
Magnetic field of complex helical conductors
Authors: Budnik Krzysztof , Machczyński Wojciech
Published: December 2013

Transmission of the electric power is accompanied with generation of low - frequency electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic compatibility studies require that the fields from sources of electric power be well known. Unfortunately, many of these sources are not defined to the desired degree of accuracy. This applies e.g. to the case of the twisted-wire pair used in telephone communication; already practiced is twisting of insulated high-voltage three phase power cables and single-phase distribution cables as well. The paper presents a theoretical study of the calculation of magnetic fields in vicinity of conductors having helical structure. For the helical conductor with finite length the method is based on the Biot-Savart law. Since the lay-out of the cables is much more similar to a broken line than to strait line, in the paper the magnetic flux densities produced by helical conductor of complex geometry are also derived. The analytical formulas for calculating the 3D magnetic field can be used by a software tool to model the magnetic fields generated by e.g. twisted wires, helical coils, etc.
Determination of slot leakage inductance for three-phase induction motor winding using an analytical method
Authors: Staszak Jan
Published: December 2013

The article introduced some expressions for self- and mutual slot leakage inductance of phase windings for the mathematical model of an induction machine in the natural phase coordinate system and for dq0 model and in an arbitrary coordinate frame. Calculation of self- and mutual slot leakage inductance have been performed for threephase double-layer, delta and delta-modified winding connections. Introduced expressions may be useful in the design of windings and in the analysis of dynamic states of AC electrical machines.
The influence of ultrasound signal parameters on sonoluminescence light intensity
Authors: Szmechta Marek , Boczar Tomasz , Zmarzły Dariusz
Published: December 2013

Topics of this article concern the study of the fundamental nature of the sonoluminescence phenomenon occurring in liquids. At the Institute of Electrical Power Engineering at Opole University of Technology the interest in that phenomenon known as secondary phenomenon of cavitation caused by ultrasound became the genesis of a research project concerning acoustic cavitation in mineral insulation oils in which a number of additional experiments performed in the laboratory aimed to determine the influence of a number of acoustic parameters on the process of the studied phenomenona. The main purpose of scientific research subject undertaken was to determine the relationship between the generation of partial discharges in high-voltage power transformer insulation systems, the issue of gas bubbles in transformer oils and the generated acoustic emission signals. It should be noted that currently in the standard approach, the phenomenon of generation of acoustic waves accompanying the occurrence of partial discharges is generally treated as a secondary phenomenon, but it can also be a source of many other related phenomena. Based on our review of the literature data on those referred subjects taken, it must be noted, that this problem has not been clearly resolved, and the description of the relationship between these phenomena is still an open question. This study doesn’t prove all in line with the objective of the study, but can be an inspiration for new research project in the future in this topic. Solution of this problem could be a step forward in the diagnostics of insulation systems for electrical power devices based on non-invasive acoustic emission method.
Plopul Salt Marshes (Tulcea County) – An Unique Area for Halophytes in Romania
Authors: Ciocârlan Vasile , Georgescu Mihaela Ioana , Săvulescu Elena , Anastasiu Paulina
Published: December 2013

The Plopul salt marshes, Tulcea County, developed within the perimeter of Lake Beibugeac, have been identified as having a high concentration of halophytes on a relatively small area of about 100 ha. These have formed vegetal communities that fit within two types of Natura 2000 habitats: 1310 Communities of Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand and 1530* Pannonic salt steppes and salt marshes. Four of the 57 species recorded are rare at national level: Halocnemum strobilaceum, Limonium bellidifollium subsp. danubiale, Limonium meyeri and Salicornia prostrata. The area currently has a SPA (Special Protection Area) status, but the unique concentration of halophytes, the presence of Natura 2000 habitats and of rare species, also recommend the area for designation as a SCI (Sites of Community Interest).
Anti-Radiation Missiles vs. Radars
Authors: Czeszejko Stanisław
Published: December 2013

In this article the author makes an attempt to characterize the factors which are to be taken into consideration while designing the ground radar component of Air Defense systems, in order to enable them to operate on the modern battlefield. He presents the latest theoretical views on the relationship between the usage of anti-radar weapons and the organizational and technical defense mechanisms which can be deployed against such weapons. In particular the author emphasizes the protection of radars against anti-radiation missiles (ARMs) which present the biggest threat for effective Air Defense systems. He also stresses the need to combine radars into one system which enables the streamlining of their work parameters and thus ensuring their complex usage. The gaining of those capabilities will guarantee that the parameters of the air surveillance radar zone can be defined effectively.
Analysis of Noise and Non-Linearity of I-V Characteristics of Positive Temperature Coefficient Chip Thermistors
Authors: Sita Zdenek , Sedlakova Vlasta , Majzner Jiri , Sedlak Petr , Sikula Josef , Grmela Lubomir
Published: December 2013

Noise spectroscopy and I-V characteristic non-linearity measurement were applied as diagnostic tools in order to characterize the volume and contact quality of positive temperature coefficient (PTC) chip sensors and to predict possible contact failure. Correctly made and stable contacts are crucial for proper sensing. I-V characteristics and time dependences of resistance were measured for studied sensors and, besides the samples with stable resistance value, spike type resistance fluctuation was observed for some samples. These spikes often disappear after about 24 hours of voltage application. Linear I-V characteristics were measured for the samples with stable resistance. The resistance fluctuation of burst noise type was observed for some samples showing the I-V characteristic dependent on the electric field orientation. We have found that the thermistors with high quality contacts had a linear I-V characteristic, the noise spectral density is of 1/f type and the third harmonic index is lower than 60 dB. The samples with poor quality contacts show non-linear I-V characteristics and excess noise is given by superposition of g-r and 1/fn type noises, and the third harmonic index is higher than 60 dB.
Fast High-Impedance Spectroscopy Method Using Sinc Signal Excitation
Authors: Kowalewski Michał , Lentka Grzegorz
Published: December 2013

In this paper the method of fast impedance spectroscopy of technical objects with high impedance (|Zx| ≥1 GΩ) is evaluated by means of simulation and a practical experiment. The method is based on excitation of an object with a sinc signal and sampling the response signals proportional to current flowing through and voltage across the measured impedance. The object’s impedance spectrum is obtained with the use of continuous Fourier transform on the basis of linear approximations between samples in two acquisition sections, connected with the duration of the sinc signal. The method is first evaluated in MATLAB by means of simulation. An influence of the sinc signal duration and the number of samples on impedance modulus and argument measurement errors is explored. The method is then practically verified in a constructed laboratory impedance spectroscopy measurement system. The obtained acceleration of impedance spectroscopy in the low frequency range (below 1 Hz) and the decrease of the number of acquired samples enable to recommend the worked out method for implementation in portable impedance analyzers destined for operation in the field.
Remote Metering in Public Networks
Authors: Ferrigno L. , Morello R. , Paciello V. , Pietrosanto A.
Published: December 2013

New research trends in energy grids and water networks push toward ICT solutions for allowing remote metering of consumption. In the paper, after an introduction to the European Standards on smart metering, two visual sensors thought to solve typical metering problems in water public networks are described. Particular detail is given hardware and software solutions and the perspective of integration with analog gas and electric energy metering devices.
The prospects of brain — computer interface applications in children
Authors: Mikołajewska Emilia , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: December 2013

The restoring of motor functions in adults through brain-computer interface applications is widely studied in the contemporary literature. But there is a lack of similar analyses and research on the application of brain-computer interfaces in the neurorehabilitation of children. There is a need for expanded knowledge in the aforementioned area. This article aims at investigating the extent to which the available opportunities in the area of neurorehabilitation and neurological physiotherapy of children with severe neurological deficits using brain-computer interfaces are being applied, including our own concepts, research and observations.