bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction of Robot Vision on the Aspects from Configuration to Measurement and Control Methods
Authors: Xu De
Published: December 2010

Robot vision is a kind of science and technology concerned with multiple disciplines to enable a robot
to see. Its specified aspects that are attracting the attention of the researchers in robot community include
architecture and calibration of visual systems, visual measurement methods and visual control approaches. The
aspects above are investigated and analyzed according to current works, respectively. Furthermore, their
tendencies are also predicted. The visual measurement principles from parallax to knowledge and the visual
control strategies from traditional control methods to humanoid approaches are regarded to have promising
future.
Embedded Vision Positioning System Based on ARM Processor
Authors: Zou Wei , Xu De , Yu Junzhi
Published: December 2010

This chapter presents an embedded system for image capturing and visual measurement. The
architecture of this system is single processor structure and an ARM processor which operates at 406 MHz is
utilized. The image capturing device is a CMOS camera choosing the OV7620 chip as its core whose grabbing
speed is 30 frames per second. The program code is stored in a Flash memory and running in a SDRAM memory.
The functions include object segmentation, object detection and positioning. The object to be identified is a color
block in experiments. The object segmentation and detection are accomplished by checking the color block.
Experimental results verify the robustness and performance of the proposed system.
Transdermal Iontophoresis
Authors: Merino Virginia , Lopez Alicia
Published: December 2010

Among the different methods of incrementing the transdermal absorption of drugs, iontophoresis has
been the focus of considerable research. The fundamental s of iontophoresis are presented in this chapter along
with the factors that need to be considered in order to apply this technique effectively (i.e. current density, ionic
strength, and pH). The main applications of iontophoresis for the topical and systemic delivery of drugs are also
discussed. Finally, the usefulness of reverse iontophoresis is addressed.
Sonophoresis: A Valuable Physical Enhancer to Increase Transdermal Drug Delivery
Authors: Juan Escobar-Chavez Jose , Bonilla-Martinez Dalia , Angelica Villegas- Gonzalez Martha
Published: December 2010

Transdermal drug delivery offers an attractive alternative to the conve ntional drug delivery methods of
oral administration and injection. However, the stratum corneum acts as a barrier that limits the penetration of
substances through the skin. Application of ultrasound to the skin increases its permeability (sonophoresis) and
enables the delivery of various substances into and through the skin.

Ultrasound has been used extensively for medical diagnostics and to a cer tain extent in medical therapy
(physiotherapy, ultrasonic surgery, and hyperthermia). Nevertheless, it has only recently become popular as a
technique to enhance drug release from drug delivery system s. A number of studies suggest the use of ultrasound
as an external mean of delivering drugs at increased rates and at desired times.

This chapter presents the main findings in the field of sonophoresis, namely transdermal drug delivery and
transdermal monitoring. Particular attention is paid to proposed enhancement mechanisms and future trends in the
field of cutaneous vaccination and gene delivery.
Negative Net CO2 Emissions from Oxy-Decarbonization of Biogas to H2
Authors: Budzianowski Wojciech M.
Published: December 2010

Current biomass-to-energy technologies usually are not economically competitive compared with fossil fuel-based technologies. Therefore, further developments in bioenergy are still needed and new concepts such as negative net CO2 emissions that can improve the economics of biomass utilization are of great interest. Accordingly, an ODB-H2-WGS process integrated with CO2 capture, a fuel cell and an oxygen generator is proposed. The ODB-H2-WGS process can decarbonize biogas and simultaneously generate high-purity hydrogen. The ODB-H2-WGS process is illustrated by means of the case study in which three reactors are simulated, i.e. the oxyforming reactor, the HT-WGS reactor and the LT-WGS reactor. The results show that the ODB-H2-WGS process can produce a CO2-H2 mixture from which H2 is separated and the remaining CO2 is ready for compression and sequestration. The oxyforming reactor enables complete conversion of methane. CO is shifted in the HT-WGS and further in the LT-WGS reactors to its equilibrium concentration. The results reveal that the properly designed LT-WGS reactor is crucial for WGS reaction completion due to likely departure from the equilibrium conversion. Consequently, by using the ODB-H2-WGS process pure hydrogen is produced from renewable biogas with the maximal yield of 3.3176 H2:CH4 on molar basis.
Effects of Drying Parameters on the Drying Kinetics of Fermented Ground Cassava Using a Rotary Dryer
Authors: Taiwo Ademiluyi Falilat , Abowei M. F. N. , Puyate Y. T. , Achinewhu S. C.
Published: December 2010

The effects of drying parameters on the drying kinetics of fermented ground cassava were studied. Fermented ground cassava (TMS 30572) was dried in a bench scale rotary dryer at different inlet air temperature (115-230°C), inlet air velocity (0.83-1.55 m/s), feed drive speed (12-100 rpm), drum drive speed (8-18 rpm), relative humidity of inlet air (50 to 80 percent), and mass of feed (50-500 g). It is shown that inlet air temperature and inlet air velocity have the most significant effects on the drying rate of fermented ground cassava. A model which predicts the drying rate of fermented ground cassava as function of inlet air temperature and inlet air velocity is presented. Predictions of the model are compared with experimental data, and good agreement is obtained. For proper gelatinization of fermented cassava mash, the inlet air temperature should be within the range 140-230°C, low inlet air velocity (< 1.55 m/s), low drum drive speed (8-12 rpm), moderate air humidity (50 to 65 percent), and low feed drive speed of about 12 rpm. For high mass of feed (> 500 g), inlet air temperature in the range 190-230°C is recommended for proper gelatinization of fermented cassava.
Recent views on cytohistological characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of atherosclerotic lesions types I, II and III
Authors: Vukovic Irena , Lackovic Vesna , Raicevic Ranko , Lazic Zorica , Milosavljevic Zoran , Kastratovic Tatjana , Mladenovic-Mihailovic Aleksandra , Stankovic Vesna , Lackovic Milena
Published: December 2010

nema
Cytochemical and immunocytochemical characteristics of Meckel's diverticulum with heterotopic rests of pancreatic tissue
Authors: Pavlovic Snezana , Janjic Dejan , Mihajlovic Suncica , Stefanovic Natalija , Pavlovic Miljana , Stanojevic Goran , Stojanovic Vesna
Published: December 2010

Background. Meckel?s diverticulum (MD) is a congenital anomaly of the small
intestine. It results from incomplete obliteration and resorption of the
proximal omphaloenteric duct connecting yolk sac with primitive gut in the
fetal period. Case report. A case of 20-year old female with ectopic
pancreatic rests in a MD was reported. She was hospitalized with clinical
signs of acute appendicitis. During surgery an inflamated Meckel?s
diverticulum was found and a clinoid resection of the diverticulum was
performed. Histologic examination revealed pancreatic tissue in the removed
diverticulum. Endocrine cells (EC) were detected with Masson staining and
aberrant pancreatic tissue with immunocytochemical LSAB2 method using pan
cytokeratin as epithelial marker. Conclusion. Most of MD are asymptomatic and
accessory finding during laparothomias for different causes, but
complications of undiagnozed MD can be serious (diverticulitis, perforation
with peritonitis or intestinal obstruction caused by invagination). In
unclear cases, additional cytochemical and immunocytochemical diagnostics
could be done.
A case of primary peripheral T-cell type non-Hodgkin lymphoma originating in the iris: Clinico-pathological findings
Authors: Mihaljevic Biljana , Sretenovic Aleksandra , Jakovic Ljubomir , Perunicic-Jovanovic Maja , Kovacevic Dragana , Rasic Dejan , Latkovic Zoran
Published: December 2010

Background. The ocular adnexal region is the primary localization of
extranodal lymphoma in 5% to 15% of all Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Intraocular
lymphoma of T-cell origin is extremely rare and such sites of infiltration
have been rarely observed in clinical examination. Case report. We presented
a 56-year-old man with iris infiltration by primary intraocular peripheral
T-cell lymphoma. The patient was in clinical stage I BE and the treatment was
initiated according to cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, oncovin,
prednisone (CHOP) regimen. When the second course of the therapy was
scheduled, the patient developed central nervous system lymphoma
infiltration. Although De Angelis regimen was used, 3 months after the
diagnosis was established, lethal outcome ensued due to disease progression.
Conclusion. According to our experience we can conclude that further
therapeutical approach to patients with primary intraocular Tcell lymphoma
requires modification of conventional treatment regimens. The lower median
survival in these patients suggests that the disease may be of more
aggressive course.
The significance of resistin concentration in metabolical diseases
Authors: Rasic Dragisa , Stolic Radojica , Jovanovic Aleksandar , Trajkovic Goran , Rasic Julijana , Sovtic Sasa
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Adipose tissue secrets a number of hormonal active substances
that play an important role in the development of various metabolic diseases.
The aim of this study was to determine the resistin significance in patients
with various forms of metabolic diseases. Methods. The survey was conducted
in a hospital in Laplje Selo, and included 102 patients suffering from
diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and renal insufficiency. All
patients were verified and anthropometric characteristics and the basic
hematological and biochemical analysis and resistin level were controlled.
Results. The average age of the patients, 69 (67.6%) men and 33 (32.4%)
women, was 55 ? 9.3 years. It was about two-thirds of smokers. The values of
mean arterial blood pressure suggested that our patients had expressed
hypertension, body mass index (28.5 ? 3.4 kg/m2) pointed to excessive
well-fed, the circumference of hips (100 ? 10.8 cm), waist circumference (110
? 17.4 cm) and the ratio of hip/waist circumference (1.05 ? 0.14) indicated a
significant intra-abdominal distribution of fat tissue. More than one third
of our patients had a certain form of cardiovascular diseases, renal failure
was present almost in a fifth of patients, while diabetes mellitus was
verified in 44.1% of the studied population. Significantly higher values of
resistin concentrations were determined in patients with renal insufficiency
and diabetes mellitus. In relation to the level of resistin, according to the
number of metabolic diseases per patient, a statistically significant
difference was achieved (F = 11.80, DF = 4.61, p < 0.001). Spearman
correlation (r = 0.66, p < 0.001) found a statistically significant
correlation between the number of diseases in one subject and the levels of
resistin. Conclusion. In patients with diabetes mellitus and renal failure
higher concentrations of resistin were recorded.
Perimenstrual headache: Migraine without aura or premenstrual syndrome symptom?
Authors: Sundic Ana , Zidverc-Trajkovic Jasna , Vujovic Svetlana , Sternic Nadezda
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. Definition of menstrual migraine as a specific clinical
entity or, maybe, migraine headache with menstrually related occurring, still
remains unresolved question. The aim of this study was to investigate if
perimenstrual headache in our patients fulfills diagnostic the International
Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) criteria for migraine without
aura or represents a different type of headache which is the symptom of
premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Methods. The study included 50 women with
headache in perimenstrual period in at least two out of three menstrual
cycles, during the last year or longer. Two questionnaires, a questionnaire
for headache and a questionnaire for PMS, were used. Results. The majority of
all the examined women, 29 of them, had migraine and PMS and 9 women had
migraine without PMS. Headache in 38 (76.0%) patients fulfilled diagnostic
criteria for menstrual migraine, (26 and 12 women had pure menstrual migraine
and menstrually related migraine respectively). Intensity of PMS was not
different in a groups of women with different types of headache (p = 0.184):
a total number of PMS symptoms was 8.2 ? 4.6 in the group with pure menstrual
migraine, 10.8 ? 3.9 in the group with menstrually related migraine and 10.8
? 6.3 in the group with non-migraine headache. Conclusion. This study shows
that headache, occuring in perimenstrual period, is not always migraine, but
could fulfill criteria for tension-type headache, as well. Specific
characteristics of perimenstrual headache, which could distinguish it as a
symptom of PMS, were not found. Expected relation in time of headache onset
and menarche was not confirmed.
Analysis of the grade of esophagitis, chromendoscopical and histological findings of esophagus in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease before and after the therapy
Authors: Brzacki Vesna , Nagorni Aleksandar , Mihailovic Dragan , Raicevic-Sibinovic Suzana , Mladenovic Bojan
Published: December 2010

Background/Aim. The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux desease (GERD) are
among the most common complaints for which patients are indicated for
visiting gastroenterologist. It occurs as a result of the effect made by
gastric reflux contents that moves into the esophagus. The prevalence of all
forms of GERD is 40%. The aim of this study was to analyze the grade of
esophagitis, chromendoscopical and histological findings of esophagus in
patients with GERD before and after the therapy. Methods. A prospective study
included 90 patients with symptoms of GERD, divided into 2 groups depending
on whether they had endoscopic signs of gastroezophageal reflux (group ERD),
or not (group NERD). All the patients had esophagogastroduodenoscopy,
chromoendoscopy staining, test for Helicobacter pylori and histological
findings of the esophagus. In the patients with Helicobacter pylori infection
eradication therapy was done. Results. Esophagitis-B level was present in
most of the patients. Among the groups, roughly the same number responded to
positive findings on chromoendoscopy. After the therapy, chromoendoscopy was
significantly negative in both groups of the patients comparing to
chromoendoscopy before the therapy (p = 0.00001). Multiplication and
elongation of papilla, basal cell hyperplasia, vascular dilatation,
increasing of mitotic activity and the presence of polymorphonuclear
leukocyte cells were statistically more frequent histological findings in the
group ERB compared to the group NERB. After the therapy, the patients in both
groups had statistically less histological findings of appropriate esophageal
parameters. Conclusion. Chromoendoscopy combined with the standard endoscopy
increases the sensitivity and specificity for reflux disease. Histology in
the reflux disease is associated with endoscopic and clinical findings so
that the localization of taking biopsies and histological criteria of
pathohistological changes must be clearly defined. Multiplication and
elongation of papilla, basal cell hyperplasia and the presence of
polymorphonuclear leukocytes are the most relevant criteria in the diagnosis
NERD.
Living unrelated donor kidney transplantation: A fourteen-year experience
Authors: Ignjatovic Ljiljana , Jovanovic Dragan , Kronja Goran , Dujic Aleksandar , Maric Mihailo , Ignjatovic Dragan , Hrvacevic Rajko , Kovacevic Zoran , Petrovic Milija , Elakovic Dejan , Marenovic Tomislav , Lukic Zoran , Trkuljic Miroljub , Stankovic Bratislav , Maksic Djoko , Butorajac Josip , Colic Miodrag , Draskovic-Pavlovic Biljana , Kapulica-Kuljic Nada , Draskovic Nada , Misovic Sidor , Stijelja Borislav , Milovic Novak , Tosevski Perica , Filipovic Nikola , Romic Predrag , Jevtic Miodrag , Draskovic Miroljub , Vavic Neven , Paunic Zoran , Radojevic Milorad , Bjelanovic Zoran , Tomic Aleksandar , Aleksic Predrag , Kosevic Branko , Mocovic Dejan , Bancevic Vladimir , Magic Zvonko , Vojvodic Danilo , Balint Bela , Ostojic Gordana , Tukic Ljiljana , Murgic Jadranka , Pervulov Svetozar , Rusovic Sinisa , Sjenicic Goran , Bucan Vesna , Milavic-Vujkovic Merica , Jandric Dusan , Raicevic Ranko , Mijuskovic Mirjana , Obrencevic Katarina , Pilcevic Dejan , Cukic Zoran , Petrovic Marijana , Petrovic Milica , Tadic Jelena , Terzic Brankica , Karan Zeljko , Bokonjic Dubravko , Dobric Silva , Antunovic Mirjana , Bokun Radmila , Dimitrijevic Jovan , Vukomanovic-Djurdjevic Biserka
Published: December 2010

Background. In countries without a national organization for retrieval and
distribution of organs of the deceased donors, problem of organ shortage is
still not resolved. In order to increase the number of kidney
transplantations we started with the program of living unrelated - spousal
donors. The aim of this study was to compare treatment outcome and renal
graft function in patients receiving the graft from spousal and those
receiving ghe graft from living related donors. Method. We retrospectively
identified 14 patients who received renal allograft from spousal donors
between 1996 and 2009 (group I). The control group consisted of 14 patients
who got graft from related donor retrieved from the database and matched than
with respect to sex, age, kidney disease, immunological and viral
pretransplant status, the initial method of the end stage renal disease
treatment and ABO compatibility. In the follow-up period of 41 ? 38 months we
recorded immunosuppressive therapy, surgical complications, episodes of acute
rejection, CMV infection and graft function, assessed by serum creatinine
levels at the beginning and in the end of the follow-up period. All patients
had pretransplant negative cross-match. In ABO incompatible patients
pretransplant isoagglutinine titer was zero. Results. The patients with a
spousal donor had worse HLA matching. There were no significant differences
between the groups in surgical, infective, immunological complications and
graft function. Two patients from the group I returned to hemodialysis after
82 and 22 months due to serious comorbidities. Conclusion. In spite of the
worse HLA matching, graft survival and function of renal grafts from spousal
donors were as good as those retrieved from related donors.
A comparison of acepromazine-buprenorphine and medetomidine-buprenorphine for preanesthetic medication of dogs
Authors: Grint Nicola J. , Alderson Briony , Dugdale Alexandra H. A.
Published: December 2010

Objective—To assess sedative and cardiopulmonary effects of premedication with a medetomidine-buprenorphine or acepromazine-buprenorphine combination in dogs anesthetized with propofol and isoflurane.

Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—90 dogs undergoing routine surgical and diagnostic procedures.

Procedures—Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 premedication groups: group 1 (acepromazine, 0.03 mg/kg [0.014 mg/lb], IM; buprenorphine, 0.02 mg/kg [0.009 mg/lb], IM), 2 (medetomidine, 5 μg/kg [2.3 μg/lb], IM; buprenorphine, 0.02 mg/kg, IM), or 3 (medetomidine, 10 μg/kg [4.5 μg/lb], IM; buprenorphine, 0.02 mg/kg, IM). Anesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Simple descriptive scores for sedation were assigned 15 minutes (groups 2 and 3) and 30 minutes (group 1) after premedication administration. Basic cardiopulmonary data were recorded throughout the anesthetic period. Times to recovery from anesthesia were recorded.

Results—Sedation scores did not differ significantly among groups. Mean and diastolic blood pressures were significantly lower and heart rate was significantly higher in group 1 than in the other groups. Mean end-tidal partial pressure of CO2 was significantly lower and respiratory rate was significantly higher in group 1 than in the other groups. There were no significant differences in anesthetic recovery times between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that either acepromazine or medetomidine could be used in combination with buprenorphine for premedication of dogs anesthetized with propofol and isoflurane for routine surgical and diagnostic procedures. Arterial blood pressure was better maintained with the medetomidine-buprenorphine combinations, but tissue perfusion was not investigated.
Can lone pair-π and cation-π interactions coexist? A theoretical study
Authors: Estarellas Carolina , Frontera Antonio , Quiñonero David , Deyà Pere
Published: December 2010

The interplay between two important noncovalent interactions involving different aromatic rings is studied by means of ab initio calculations (MP2/6-31++G**) computing the non-additivity energies. In this study we demonstrate the existence of cooperativity effects when cation-π and lone pair-π interactions coexist in the same system. These effects are studied theoretically using energetic and geometric features of the complexes. In addition we use Bader’s theory of atoms-in-molecules and Molecular Interaction Potential with polarization (MIPp) partition scheme to characterize the interactions. Experimental evidence for this combination of interactions has been obtained from the Cambridge Structural Database.
Influence of protease on dyeing of wool with acid dyes
Authors: Periolatto Monica , Ferrero Franco , Giansetti Mirco , Mossotti Raffaella , Innocenti Riccardo
Published: December 2010

The application of enzymes in the wool dyeing process is an important research goal in order to reduce the environmental impact and costs of this finishing process. The work has focused on the possibility of reducing the temperature of conventional dyeing, using an enzymatic pretreatment with a neutral protease to improve the diffusion of the dye into the fibers. After the identification of the optimal dyeing process, the study goes on transferring the method to an industrial application. For this reason the influence of a leveling agent added to the dyeing bath was considered and further tests with an industrial dyeing recipe were performed. In order to evaluate possible fiber damage, samples treated with enzyme were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed by gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Moreover, the variation of tensile strength and elongation of dyed samples were determined. In addition, color fastness to domestic laundering, perspiration and rubbing were carried out. Finally, color measurements and fiber section analysis were performed. The results show the possibility, thanks to the pretreatment with the investigated enzyme, to obtain a homogeneous and solid dyeing on fibers maintaining good mechanical properties, already working at 85°C instead of 98°C currently used in industry.
Identification of molecules derived from human fibroblast feeder cells that support the proliferation of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Anisimov Sergey , Christophersen Nicolaj , Correia Ana , Hall Vanessa , Sandelin Ingrid , Li Jia-Yi , Brundin Patrik
Published: December 2010

The majority of human embryonic stem cell lines depend on a feeder cell layer for continuous growth in vitro, so that they can remain in an undifferentiated state. Limited knowledge is available concerning the molecular mechanisms that underlie the capacity of feeder cells to support both the proliferation and pluripotency of these cells. Importantly, feeder cells generally lose their capacity to support human embryonic stem cell proliferation in vitro following long-term culture. In this study, we performed large-scale gene expression profiles of human foreskin fibroblasts during early, intermediate and late passages using a custom DNA microarray platform (NeuroStem 2.0 Chip). The microarray data was validated using RT-PCR and virtual SAGE analysis. Our comparative gene expression study identified a limited number of molecular targets potentially involved in the ability of human neonatal foreskin fibroblasts to serve as feeder cells for human embryonic stem cell cultures. Among these, the C-KIT, leptin and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) genes were the most interesting candidates.
Constructions of Death in Young Adult Fantastic Literature
Authors: Loidl Sonja
Published: December 2010

Most fantastic texts are, in the first place, stories of adventure: the risk of being injured or killed is a predetermined part of the plot. This article analyses representations of death in fantastic juvenile literature and the horizons of expectation associated with the genre and the particular motif. In non-realistic narratives death often serves as a framework for culture contact highlighting differences and similarities between fantastic communities and the environment of the audience. The portrayal of death likewise acts as a key marker of personhood by using the motivations and circumstances under which a character kills – or dies – as a feature distinguishing between ‘good’ and ‘evil’. The article also discusses magic as a tool that provides extended means to heal, to evade death or to bring back the dead. This last issue brings significantly into play the morals and ethics of protagonists as well as antagonists. Referenced texts are, among others, The Neverending Story, the Ink-Trilogy, Harry Potter, the Inheritance quartet and Lord of the Rings.
Effect of Warfarin on Survival in Scleroderma-associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (SSc-PAH) and Idiopathic PAH. Belief Elicitation for Bayesian Priors
Authors: JOHNSON SINDHU R. , GRANTON JOHN T. , TOMLINSON GEORGE A. , GROSBEIN HADDAS A. , HAWKER GILLIAN A. , FELDMAN BRIAN M.
Published: December 2010

Objective.

Warfarin use in scleroderma (SSc)-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and idiopathic PAH (IPAH) is controversial. A prerequisite for a trial is the demonstration of community uncertainty. We evaluated experts’ beliefs about the effect of warfarin on 3-year survival in SSc-PAH and IPAH, and factors that influence warfarin use.

Methods.

PAH experts attending the 2008 American College of Rheumatology or American Thoracic Society meetings expressed the probability of 3-year survival without and with warfarin and their degree of uncertainty by applying adhesive dots, each representing a 5% weight of probability, in “bins” on a line, creating a prior probability distribution or prior. Using a numeric rating scale, participants rated factors that influence their use of warfarin.

Results.

Forty-five experts (44% pulmonologists, 38% rheumatologists, 16% cardiologists, 2% internists) underwent the belief elicitation interview. In SSc-PAH, the mean probabilities of 3-year survival without and with warfarin were 54% and 56%, respectively. Pessimistic experts believe that warfarin worsens survival by 7%. Optimistic experts believe that warfarin improves survival by 13%. In IPAH, the mean probabilities of 3-year survival without and with warfarin were 68% and 76%. Factors (mean rating out of 10, 0 = not at all important, 10 = extremely important) that influence experts’ use of warfarin were functional class (5.4), age (5.4), pulmonary artery pressure (5.2), peripheral vascular disease (3.6), disease duration (2.8), and sex (1.7).

Conclusion.

Bayesian priors effectively quantify and illustrate experts’ beliefs about the effect of warfarin on survival in SSc-PAH and IPAH. This study demonstrates the presence of uncertainty about the effect of warfarin, and provides justification for a clinical trial.
Le crédit à la consommation dans la bancarisation
Authors: Lazarus Jeanne
Published: December 2010

Résumé Les lois bancaires de 1966-1967, dites « lois Debré », ont provoqué le mouvement de bancarisation de la population française : les Français ont ouvert massivement des comptes. Les banques ont alors développé de nouveaux services pour les particuliers, parmi lesquels le crédit à la consommation. Cet article s’intéresse à la façon dont le crédit à la consommation a fait son entrée dans la gamme des produits vendus en masse par les banques de détail. Avant la bancarisation, les banques ne distribuaient pas de crédit à la consommation mais disposaient de filiales spécialisées dans la vente à tempérament, proposant des crédits associés à des achats, en général sur les lieux de vente. Toutefois dès cette époque, les banquiers réfléchissaient à ce mode de financement, observant en particulier les pratiques américaines. Après les lois Debré, les encours de crédit s’envolèrent rapidement et les banques se spécialisèrent dans le prêt personnel. Cette multiplication de prêts conduit ces dernières à développer des techniques de sélection statistiques qui très rapidement seront utilisées par les services marketing à des fins de segmentation et de profilage. Pour terminer, l’article observe la façon dont le crédit à la consommation a été reçu par les associations de consommateurs, d’abord curieuses et intéressées mais rapidement critiques.
Pour ou contre le crédit à la consommation ? Développement et réglementation du crédit à la consommation en France dans les années 1950 et 1960
Authors: Effosse Sabine
Published: December 2010

Résumé Partant de la controverse déclenchée en 1953 par le ministre de l’Économie nationale qui souhaitait faire du crédit à la consommation un moyen de relance de l’économie, cet article étudie le problème de sa légitimité en France dans les années 1950 et 1960. À travers l’analyse du marché des prêteurs, il montre que, contrairement à une idée reçue, les Français achètent à crédit malgré un coût élevé dû à une absence de contrôle. Pour lutter contre ce « crédit noir », le gouvernement entend instaurer une réglementation. Réglementé à partir de 1954, ce crédit sert alors davantage les intérêts des producteurs (les industries nationales soucieuses d’assurer leurs débouchés) que ceux des consommateurs. Acclimatées mais pas vraiment converties au crédit à la consommation, les autorités financières s’emploient en effet à en restreindre au maximum le développement et agissent peu sur la question de son coût jusqu’à l’adoption de la loi dite « sur l’usure » du 28 décembre 1966.
Télévisions et crédit à la consommation : une approche comparative France–RFA 1950-1970
Authors: Gaillard Isabelle
Published: December 2010

Résumé En s’appuyant sur une démarche comparative, cet article s’efforce de dresser un tableau du crédit à la consommation en France et en Allemagne de l’Ouest pendant les Trente Glorieuses. Il montre que les deux pays présentent de nombreuses similitudes. Le crédit à la consommation en télévision s’organise lentement – quoique différemment – à partir du milieu des années 1950 en France comme en Allemagne. On observe ensuite une expansion nette, qui profite aux ventes de téléviseurs et aux organismes de crédit. Ce développement est cependant mesuré quand on le compare aux pays anglo-saxons. Cette mesure trouve sans doute sa source dans la défiance qui caractérise les acteurs du crédit de part et d’autre du Rhin : méfiance des pouvoirs publics, prudence des organismes de crédit des banques ou des distributeurs, « résistances » des consommateurs.
Livrets de bord et travail des enseignants du second degré
Authors: Lahanier-Reuter Dominique
Published: December 2010

Parmi les écrits professionnels des enseignants de collège et de lycée, nous étudions les cahiers de textes et agendas qu’ils composent au long d’une année scolaire. Notre corpus est constitué d’agendas et de cahiers de textes de diverses classes de collège et de lycée de différentes disciplines scolaires, ainsi que de cyber-cahiers de textes, dont l’usage tend à se répandre. Nous explorons la diversité de ces écrits en les considérant comme des objets relevant d’un même genre, celui des livrets de bord, et en analysant tour à tour leurs caractéristiques formelles, linguistiques, disciplinaire. Notre objectif est double. Il s’agit pour nous de mettre en évidence quelques-unes des tensions qui structurent l’ensemble des écrits étudiés : tension entre écrits de travail - la tenue du cahier de textes fait partie des tâches prescrites - et écrits sur le travail - ils sont des enregistrements tout autant que des programmations de séances dans la classe ; tension générée par la multiplicité des destinataires perçus (inspecteurs, élèves ou parents d’élèves...) ; ou encore tension entre certains des rôles que les enseignants attribuent à ces écrits et les positions de scripteur qu’ils leur associent : production pour des élèves de modèles d’écriture à reproduire vs mode de contrôle institutionnel. Mais notre but est aussi de mieux comprendre les dimensions didactiques de ces écrits et par ce faire, celles du travail enseignant. Pour cela, nous analysons les temporalités auxquelles ces écrits se soumettent et celles qu’ils exposent, les positions des différents acteurs et les milieux pour l’étude que ces énoncés laissent entrevoir, enfin les fonctions didactiques que peuvent remplir ces écrits, telle l’aide à l’élaboration d’une mémoire didactique.
Small intestinal segment perfusion test in piglets: future applications in studying probiotics-gut crosstalk in infectious diarrhoea?
Authors: van der Meulen J. , Hulst M. , Smits M. , Schuurman T.
Published: December 2010

Worldwide infectious diarrhoea, mainly caused by rotavirus and enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC), accounts for a large part of deaths in children. ETEC is also the main cause of traveller's diarrhoea. Probiotics are promising for prevention and treatment of diarrhoea, but there is insufficient evidence to support the use of any specific probiotic or probiotics in general. Because of the sensitivity of suckling and weaned piglets for ETEC, piglets are a good model for infectious diarrhoea in infants and traveller's diarrhoea. Just as in human the efficacy of probiotics in diminishing diarrhoea and improving growth in suckling and weaned piglets is not uniform. A piglet model of infectious diarrhoea provides access to intestinal compartments that are not easily accessible in infants. In anin situpiglet model of secretory diarrhoea, the functional physiological response to ETEC and the concomitant host genome response to ETEC and probiotics may be tested. This will provide new insights in the complex crosstalk between ETEC, probiotics and the gut in the future.
Adaptation factors of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
Authors: Lebeer S. , Vanderleyden J. , De Keersmaecker S.
Published: December 2010

Probiotic bacteria are administered as live micro-organisms to provide a health benefit to the host. Knowledge on
adaptation factors that promote the survival and persistence of probiotics in the intestine is key to understand and
improve their ecological and probiotic performance. Adaptation factors include adhesins, molecules conferring stress
tolerance and nutritional versatility, antimicrobial products against competing microbes, and factors promoting
resistance against the host immune system. Here, we present an overview of the current knowledge on adaptation
factors of probiotic lactobacilli, with focus on the prototypical and widely documented probiotic strain Lactobacillus
rhamnosus GG.
Early nutritional environment: focus on health effects of microbiota and probiotics
Authors: Laitinen K. , Collado M. , Isolauri E.
Published: December 2010

Balanced maternal nutrition during pregnancy ensures both the growth and development of the foetus and the
well-being of the mother. Recent evidence supports the programming theory, which envisages long-lasting effects
on later risk of chronic life-style-related diseases by early nutrition. The increasing problem of overweight, affecting
almost half of the female population in Western societies, sets off adverse programming effects in the offspring
manifested in subsequent health effects. To combat this problem, new tools involving life-style modifications are
being actively sought to increment the traditional approaches. Immunonutrition, the ability of nutrients to influence
the activities of cells in the immune system, may be one answer in combating low-grade systemic inflammation, the
key underlying determinant in the obesity epidemic. Further, microbial compounds possess immunomodulatory
properties which may be utilised to improve immune responses in clinically meaningful ways. Aberrant microbiota
compositions have been detected during critical periods when early programming occurs, including pregnancy and
infancy. Such alterations may regulate the health of the infant and the risk of subsequent disease, as demonstrated
by the divergence in gut microbiota composition between healthy and overweight individuals. It may thus be
hypothesised that the composition of the gut microbiota could be used as a target for intervention. Probiotics
interact with the mucosal immune system via the same pathways as commensal bacteria to influence both innate
and adaptive immune responses. In consequence, interventions with immunomodulatory diets, including certain
nutrients and probiotics, may be critical in coordinating the adaptive function necessary for the formation of
tolerance and thus in the prevention of undesirable metabolic consequences.
Effectiveness of INROADS Into Pain Management, a Nursing Educational Intervention
Authors: Salinas Gregory D. , Abdolrasulnia Maziar
Published: December 2010

Nurses play a critical role in managing a patient’s pain, from initial evaluation to ongoing patient education. However, little information exists on current gaps in nurses’ knowledge and their pain-related decision making. To this end, an educational intervention—the INROADS initiative—was designed to improve the knowledge of nurses involved in patient management as well as to guide them toward practices that are consistent with currently available evidence. The results from an evaluation of this intervention show that nurses participating in the INROADS program were 52% more likely to make evidence-based care choices for their patients, compared with a control group of demographically similar nurses. The effect of this program may reinforce it as a model for the design of future interventions for pain management.
Radial Collateral Ligament Injury of the Thumb with a Stener-Like Lesion
Authors: Doty Jesse F. , Rudd Joseph N. , Jemison Marshall
Published: December 2010

The original Stener lesion, described in 1962, refers to an ulnar collateral ligament tear of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint with adductor aponeurosis interposition. The adductor aponeurosis serves as a mechanical block to healing by preventing apposition of the torn ends of the ulnar collateral ligament.

This article presents a case of a 27-year-old woman with painful swelling of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint following a car accident. Complete tear of the radial collateral ligament was diagnosed based on physical and radiographic examinations. Radial collateral ligament injuries are reported to be less common than ulnar collateral ligament injuries, and, in the past, radial collateral ligament tears were thought to be innocuous, requiring little intervention. More recently, the significance of these injuries has been well documented, and there is support for acute surgical management of complete radial collateral ligament tears. During surgical intervention in our case, we found an intrasubstance tear of the radial collateral ligament with the proximal portion of the ligament retracted and lying superficial to the abductor aponeurosis, thereby producing a Stener-like lesion on the radial side of the joint. The incidence of a Stener-like lesion to the radial collateral ligament is unknown, but it has only been reported once in the literature. Although a primary radial collateral ligament tear may heal by soft tissue apposition, we felt that conservative management in our patient would unlikely lead to healing due to interposition of the abductor aponeurosis.

This case supports current recommendations for surgical intervention of complete radial collateral ligament injuries due to the possibility of a Stener-like lesion with soft tissue interposition recurring in the future.
Impact of Moderate to Severe Renal Impairment on Mortality and Appropriate Shocks in Patients with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
Authors: Alla Venkata M. , Anand Kishlay , Hundal Mandeep , Chen Aimin , Karnam Showri , Hee Tom , Hunter Claire , Mooss Aryan N. , Esterbrooks Dennis , Mohiuddin Syed M.
Published: December 2010

Background. Due to underrepresentation of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in large Implantable-Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) clinical trials, the impact of ICD remains uncertain in this population.Methods. Consecutive patients who received ICD at Creighton university medical center between years 2000–2004 were included in a retrospective cohort after excluding those on maintenance dialysis. Based on baseline Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), patients were classified as severe CKD: GFR < 30 mL/min; moderate CKD: GFR: 30–59 mL/min; and mild or no CKD: GFR ≥ 60 mL/min. The impact of GFR on appropriate shocks and survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier method and Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with log-link function.Results. There were 509 patients with a mean follow-up of 3.0 + 1.3 years. Mortality risk was inversely proportional to the estimated GFR: 2 fold higher risk with GFR between 30–59 mL/min and 5 fold higher risk with GFR < 30 mL/min. One hundred and seventy-seven patients received appropriate shock(s); appropriate shock-free survival was lower in patients with severe CKD (GFR < 30) compared to mild or no CKD group (2.8 versus 4.2 yrs).Conclusion. Even moderate renal dysfunction increases all cause mortality in CKD patients with ICD. Severe but not moderate CKD is an independent predictor for time to first appropriate shock.
Aging, Resistance Training, and Diabetes Prevention
Authors: Flack Kyle D. , Davy Kevin P. , Hulver Matthew W. , Winett Richard A. , Frisard Madlyn I. , Davy Brenda M.
Published: December 2010

With the aging of the baby-boom generation and increases in life expectancy, the American population is growing older. Aging is associated with adverse changes in glucose tolerance and increased risk of diabetes; the increasing prevalence of diabetes among older adults suggests a clear need for effective diabetes prevention approaches for this population. The purpose of paper is to review what is known about changes in glucose tolerance with advancing age and the potential utility of resistance training (RT) as an intervention to prevent diabetes among middle-aged and older adults. Age-related factors contributing to glucose intolerance, which may be improved with RT, include improvements in insulin signaling defects, reductions in tumor necrosis factor-α, increases in adiponectin and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations, and reductions in total and abdominal visceral fat. Current RT recommendations and future areas for investigation are presented.
Free Energy Contribution to Gas Chromatographic Separation of Petroselinate and Oleate Esters
Authors: Sansa-ard Chanida , Aryusuk Kornkanok , Lilitchan Supathra , Krisnangkura Kanit
Published: December 2010

The ease of separation by gas chromatography between petroselinic and oleic acids depends on the alcohol moieties of their esters. The esters of higher molecular weight alcohols tend to be better separated on a 90%-biscyanopropyl-10%-cyanopropylphenyl polysiloxane capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm i.d.). By analysis of free energies contribution from different parts of the molecules, it is tentatively concluded that the interaction between the double bond and the column stationary phase is interfered by the bulky alkyl group, and it is the major driving force for the separation of the two fatty acids.
Phylogenetic and Guanine-Cytosine Content Analysis of Symbiobacterium thermophilum Genes
Authors: Nishida Hiromi , Yun Choong-Soo
Published: December 2010

Although the bacterium Symbiobacterium thermophilum has a genome with a high guanine-cytosine (GC) content (69%), it belongs to a low GC content bacterial group. We detected only 18 low GC content regions with 5 or more consecutive genes whose GC contents were below 65% in the genome of this organism. S. thermophilum has 66 transposase genes, which are markers of transposable genetic elements, and 38 (58%) of them were located in the low GC content regions, suggesting that Symbiobacterium has a similar gene silencing system as Salmonella. The top hit (best match) analyses for each Symbiobacterium protein showed that putative horizontally transferred genes and vertically inherited genes are scattered across the genome. Approximately 25% of the 3338 Symbiobacterium proteins have the highest similarity with the protein of a phylogenetically distant organism. The putative horizontally transferred genes also have a high GC content, suggesting that Symbiobacterium has gained many DNA fragments from phylogenetically distant organisms during the early stage of Firmicutes evolution. After acquiring genes, Symbiobacterium increased the GC content of the horizontally transferred genes and thereby maintained a genome with a high GC content.
An Outbreak of Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis at an Outpatient Ophthalmology Clinic
Authors: Doyle Timothy J , King Diane , Cobb Judith , Miller Darlene , Johnson Barbara
Published: December 2010

Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) is an acute eye infection caused by adenovirus. We investigated an outbreak of EKC at an outpatient ophthalmology practice in the context of a suspected community wide increase in EKC activity. A site visit was made to the facility reporting the outbreak. A line list was created of patients clinically diagnosed with EKC at the practice during the previous 5 months. A questionnaire was faxed to all other licensed ophthalmologists in the county regarding recent EKC activity in their facility. Descriptive data analyses were conducted. The outbreak facility reported 37 patients clinically diagnosed with EKC during the previous 5 months. In addition, the single ophthalmologist at the practice also had symptoms compatible with EKC during the outbreak period. Specimens were collected on 4 patients and all were positive for adenovirus serotype 8. Forty percent of ophthalmologists surveyed in the county saw at least one EKC patient in the previous 3 months, and 20% reported a perceived increase in EKC activity in recent months over normal seasonal patterns. The outbreak at the facility likely began as part of a widespread community increase in EKC that may have been amplified at the facility through nosocomial transmission. Medical providers experiencing increases in EKC activity above seasonally expected norms should contact their public health department for assistance with etiologic diagnoses and outbreak control.
Endometrial Adenocarcinoma in a 27-Year-Old Woman
Authors: Fadhlaoui Anis , Hassouna Jamel Ben , Khrouf Mohamed , Zhioua Fethi , Chaker Anis
Published: December 2010

Background

Endometrial adenocarcinoma usually occurs after menopause, but in 2%–14% of cases, it occurs in young patients (less than 40 years of age) who are eager to preserve their fertility. Its treatment includes hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy, and, in some cases, radiation therapy.

Aim

To describe a case of endometrial adenocarcinoma occurring in a young woman and to undertake a literature review of risk factors and therapeutic options proposed for young women wishing to preserve their fertility.

Case

We report a case of endometrial cancer in a 27-year-old woman treated for resistant menorrhagia and cared for in our department as well as in the Salah Azaiez Institute.

Conclusion

Endometrial adenocarcinoma rarely occurs in young women. In such cases, other therapeutic options can be proposed: progesterone therapy and LH-RH (Luteinzing-Hormone-Releasing-Hormone) agonists therapy in order to preserve fertility in younger patients.