bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daliranite, PbHgAs2S6, a new sulphosalt from the Zarshouran Au-As deposit, Takab region, Iran
Authors: Paar W. H. , Pring A. , Moëlo Y. , Stanley C. J. , Putz H. , Topa D. , Roberts A. C. , Braithwaite R. S. W.
Published: December 2009

Daliranite, ideally PbHgAs2S6, a new sulphosalt from the Zarshouran Au-As deposit, Takab region, Iran, occurs as a rare sulphosalt species at the Carlin-type Zarshouran Au-As deposit North of the town of Takab in the Province of West Azarbaijan, Iran. The new species is associated with orpiment, rarely with galkhaite, hutchinsonite and cinnabar. The strongly silicified matrix of the specimens has veinlets of sphalerite, with rare inclusions of galena and various (Cu)-Pb-As(Sb) sulphosalts. Daliranite occurs as matted nests of acicular and flexible fibres up to 200 μm in length and a width less than a few μm. The colour is orange-red with a pale orange-red streak and the lustre is adamantine. The mineral is transparent and does not fluoresce. The Mohs hardness is <2. Electron microprobe analyses give the empirical formula Pb0.95Tl0.01Hg1.04As2.10S5.91, ideally PbHgAs2S6, a new sulphosalt from the Zarshouran Au-As deposit, Takab region, Iran; the calculated density is 5.93 g cm–3. Unit-cell parameters were determined by an electron-diffraction study and refined from X-ray powder data. Daliranite is monoclinic primitive with a = 19.113(5) Å, b = 4.233(2) Å, c = 22.958(8) Å, β = 114.78(5)°, V = 1686.4 Å3 and Z = 8, a:b:c = 4.515:1:5.424, space group P2, Pm or P2/m. The strongest X-ray powder-diffraction lines [d in Å, (I), (hkl)] are: 8.676, (80), (200); 4.654, (50), (401); 3.870, (40), (211); 3.394, (50), (113); 3.148, (40b), (602); 2.892, (50), (600); 2.724, (100), (703); 2.185, (50), (319). The formula shows a sulphur excess which may correspond to S—S bonding (persulphide). The new sulphosalt is a late phase in the crystallization sequence, and was formed after orpiment, contemporaneously with quartz II, at a temperature between 157 and 193°C. The name honours Dr Farahnaz Daliran (University of Karlsruhe, Germany) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to research on ore deposits, especially Au, Zn and Fe, in Iran.
Psychological correlates of self-reported functional limitation in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Brionez Tamar F , Assassi Shervin , Reveille John D , Learch Thomas J , Diekman Laura , Ward Michael M , Davis John C , Weisman Michael H , Nicassio Perry
Published: December 2009

Introduction

Functional status is an integral component of health-related quality of life in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of psychological variables in self-reported functional limitation in patients with AS, while controlling for demographic and medical variables.

Methods

294 AS patients meeting modified New York Criteria completed psychological measures evaluating depression, resilience, active and passive coping, internality and helplessness at the baseline visit. Demographic, clinical, and radiologic data were also collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were completed to determine the strength of correlation of psychological variables with functional limitation, as measured by the Bath AS Functional Index (BASFI).

Results

In the multivariate regression analysis, the psychological variables contributed significantly to the variance in BASFI scores, adding an additional 24% to the overall R-square beyond that accounted by demographic and medical variables (R-square 32%), resulting in a final R-square of 56%. Specifically, arthritis helplessness, depression and passive coping beside age, ESR and the Bath AS Radiograph Index accounted for a significant portion of the variance in BASFI scores in the final model.

Conclusions

Arthritis helplessness, depression, and passive coping accounted for significant variability in self-reported functional limitation beyond demographic and clinical variables in patients with AS. Psychological health should be examined and accounted for when assessing functional status in the AS patients.
Crosstalk in Inflammation: The Interplay of Glucocorticoid Receptor-Based Mechanisms and Kinases and Phosphatases
Authors: Beck Ilse M. E. , Vanden Berghe Wim , Vermeulen Linda , Yamamoto Keith R. , Haegeman Guy , De Bosscher Karolien
Published: December 2009

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are steroidal ligands for the GC receptor (GR), which can function as a ligand-activated transcription factor. These steroidal ligands and derivatives thereof are the first line of treatment in a vast array of inflammatory diseases. However, due to the general surge of side effects associated with long-term use of GCs and the potential problem of GC resistance in some patients, the scientific world continues to search for a better understanding of the GC-mediated antiinflammatory mechanisms.

The reversible phosphomodification of various mediators in the inflammatory process plays a key role in modulating and fine-tuning the sensitivity, longevity, and intensity of the inflammatory response. As such, the antiinflammatory GCs can modulate the activity and/or expression of various kinases and phosphatases, thus affecting the signaling efficacy toward the propagation of proinflammatory gene expression and proinflammatory gene mRNA stability. Conversely, phosphorylation of GR can affect GR ligand- and DNA-binding affinity, mobility, and cofactor recruitment, culminating in altered transactivation and transrepression capabilities of GR, and consequently leading to a modified antiinflammatory potential.

Recently, new roles for kinases and phosphatases have been described in GR-based antiinflammatory mechanisms. Moreover, kinase inhibitors have become increasingly important as antiinflammatory tools, not only for research but also for therapeutic purposes. In light of these developments, we aim to illuminate the integrated interplay between GR signaling and its correlating kinases and phosphatases in the context of the clinically important combat of inflammation, giving attention to implications on GC-mediated side effects and therapy resistance.
In Search for the “Phenolate” Monoanion of Fluorescein in Solution
Authors: Mchedlov-Petrossyan Nikolay O , Vodolazkaya Natalya A , Salamanova Natalya V , Roshal Alexander D , Filatov Dmitriy Yu
Published: December 2009

Fluorescein is exclusively popular owing to bright fluorescence of its R2− dianion. While the structure of the latter and tautomerism of the H2R form are well established, only the species with COO− and OH groups has been supposed for HR− up to now. Using absorption, emission, and excitation at different pH in non-HBD solvents, DMSO, acetonitrile, and acetone, we reveal that 10–12% of HR− ions nevertheless exist as “phenolate” monoanion with nonionized COOH group.
Heat shock protein 27 is over-expressed in tumor tissues and increased in sera of patients with gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Qiaojia , Ye Jianxin , Huang Qingling , Chen Wannan , Wang Lin , Lin Wansong , Lin Jianyin , Lin Xu
Published: December 2009

Background: In a previous study, we found that heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) was over-expressed in gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) tissue. In this study, our goal was to further verify the expression profile of HSP27 in patients with GA.

Methods: Western blot and immunohistochemistry were employed to determine HSP27 expression in 50 paired tumor and adjacent normal tissue. ELISA was used to quantify serum HSP27 concentrations in the same 50 GA patients and 50 healthy individuals.

Results: Compared to adjacent normal tissues, HSP27 was over-expressed in 25 (50%, p=0.000) and 24 (48%, p=0.000) cases of GA tissue by Western blot and immunohistochemistry, respectively. ELISA revealed significantly higher serum concentrations of HSP27 in patients with GA patients (mean=986 pg/mL) compared to healthy individuals (mean=573 pg/mL) (p=0.003). In addition, infection with Helicobacter pylori (HP) in healthy individuals was associated with increased expression of HSP27 in both gastric mucosa and serum.

Conclusions: These data suggest that HSP27 is over-expressed in GA tissue and serum concentrations of HSP27 are increased in patients with GA. Over-expression of HSP27 may indicate a gastric malignant/infectious process. The detection of serum HSP27 concentrations by ELISA may be useful for screening for GA.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:263–9.
Rubber-Filler Interactions and Its Effect in Rheological and Mechanical Properties of Filled Compounds
Authors: Mostafa A. , Abouel-Kasem A. , Bayoumi M. R. , El-Sebaie M. G.
Published: December 2009

This paper will set out a brief review of the needs, early development, and current status of the nature of the interactions between rubber matrix and particulate filler and the intrinsic effect on mechanical and rheological behavior of filled vulcanizates. Fillers are commonly added to commercial elastomers for reasons of economy and also to favourably modify properties such as stiffness, tensile strength, heat distortion, mouldability, and other important properties, such as impact properties and elongation to break. The behavior of elastomers reinforcing with certain fillers like carbon black or high-structure silica need to be understood deeply to clarify the rubber-filler interaction and its effect on rheological and mechanical properties of filled rubber compounds. In this paper the nature of interaction between the elastomer and filler particles, the types of reinforcing fillers, the effect of its size and structure, the reinforcing concepts, and the mechanical properties of filled rubber are discussed.
Evolução da anatomia radicular do milho 'Saracura' em ciclos de seleção sucessivos
Authors: Pereira Fabricio José , Castro Evaristo Mauro de , Souza Thiago Corrêa de , Magalhães Paulo César
Published: December 2009

Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar as modificações nas características anatômicas radiculares relacionadas à hipoxia, durante 18 ciclos de seleção da variedade de milho (Zea mays) BRS 4154 Saracura, adaptada a áreas sujeitas a alagamento. A variedade BR 107 e o híbrido simples BRS 1010, suscetíveis ao alagamento, foram utilizados como controle. As diferentes cultivares foram submetidas a alagamentos intermitentes, a cada dois dias, durante dois meses. As amostras radiculares foram preparadas e analisadas em microscopiaóptica. Em relação ao grupo controle e aos ciclos anteriores de seleção, a BRS 4154 teve aumento na formação de aerênquima, diminuição do córtex, diminuição do diâmetro dos vasos, diminuição da camada subepidérmica, aumento na espessura do floema e epiderme. Os sucessivos ciclos de seleção melhoraram as características do milho 'Saracura' e sua tolerância a ambientes alagados.
Gingival Inflammation and Interleukin‐1 β and Tumor Necrosis Factor‐Alpha Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid During the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Baser Ulku , Cekici Ali , Tanrikulu‐Kucuk Sevda , Kantarci Alpdogan , Ademoglu Evin , Yalcin Funda
Published: December 2009

Background: Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause may impact periodontal tissues by altering the host response. There are only a few studies that examined gingival changes during the menstrual cycle. This longitudinal and prospective study aims to investigate clinical and laboratory markers of gingival inflammation in women at different phases during their menstrual cycles.

Methods: Twenty‐seven females were included in this study. Subjects were given oral hygiene instructions before the study, and their plaque index scores were recorded once a week for 2 months. The duration and regularity of the menstrual cycle were also checked at the same time. The gingival index and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded. Probing depths were measured to assess the periodontal condition of the subjects. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected to analyze the levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha on the first menstruation day (MD), estimated ovulation day (OD), and estimated predominant progesterone secretion day (PgD). These exact menstrual cycle days were determined according to serum progesterone and estradiol levels.

Results: BOP and IL‐1β levels in GCF showed significant increases from the MD to PgD under optimal plaque control. Among the 12 subjects that had premenstrual symptoms, six subjects reported oral complaints during the premenstrual period, whereas apthous lesions were more frequent during the menstruation period.

Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the fluctuation of sex steroid hormones impact gingival inflammation during menstruation.
Sinus Floor Augmentation With Simultaneous Implant Placement Using Choukroun's Platelet‐Rich Fibrin as the Sole Grafting Material: A Radiologic and Histologic Study at 6 Months
Authors: Mazor Ziv , Horowitz Robert A. , Del Corso Marco , Prasad Hari S. , Rohrer Michael D. , Dohan Ehrenfest David M.
Published: December 2009

Background: Sinus augmentation with simultaneous implant placement without bone graft material is a hotly debated technique. This technique could be improved and secured by the use of an autologous leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) (Choukroun's technique) concentrate. The objectives of this study were to assess the relevance of PRF clots and membranes as the sole filling material during a lateral sinus lift with immediate implantation using radiologic and histologic analyses in a case series.

Methods: Twenty‐five sinus elevations with simultaneous implantation were performed on 20 patients with Choukroun's PRF as the sole filling biomaterial. For each patient, a presurgical exam and a 6‐month post‐surgical radiologic exam were performed with a panoramic x‐ray and three‐dimensional volumetric computed radiography (VCR) to evaluate the subsinus residual bone height and the final bone gain around the implants. In nine patients, 6 months after the sinus lift, bone biopsies were collected on the buccal wall of the alveolar ridge at the level of the osteotomy window, and evaluated by histomorphometry.

Results: In this study, 41 implants from three different systems with different screw designs (Biomet 3I Nanotite, MIS Seven, Intra‐Lock Ossean) were placed. All implants were inserted in residual bone height between 1.5 and 6 mm (mean ± SD: 2.9 ± 0.9 mm). The final bone gain was always very significant (between 7 and 13 mm [mean ± SD: 10.1 ± 0.9 mm]). No implant was lost. After radiologic analyses, the position of the final sinus floor was always in the continuation of the end of the implant. All biopsies showed well organized and vital bone.

Conclusions: From a radiologic and histologic point of view at 6 months after surgery, the use of PRF as the sole filling material during a simultaneous sinus lift and implantation stabilized a high volume of natural regenerated bone in the subsinus cavity up to the tip of the implants. Choukroun's PRF is a simple and inexpensive biomaterial, and its systematic use during a sinus lift seems a relevant option, particularly for the protection of the Schneiderian membrane.
Zirconium Dioxide Implant Abutments for Posterior Single‐Tooth Replacement: First Results
Authors: Nothdurft Frank P. , Pospiech Peter R.
Published: December 2009

Background: Prefabricated implant abutments made of zirconium dioxide (yttria‐stabilized polycrystalline tetragonal zirconia; Y‐TZP) have proved to be useful in the esthetically demanding anterior region and may also be useful for premolar and molar replacement because of their obvious positive impact on the health of peri‐implant soft tissues.

Methods: Forty screw implants were inserted in the posterior region of 24 patients and provided with prefabricated all‐ceramic abutments made of zirconium dioxide Y‐TZP. Zirconia‐based crowns were used as superstructures. The following parameters were used to document the state of soft tissue: the modified plaque index (mPI), sulcus fluid flow rate (SFFR), modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), and probing depth (PD). Additionally, implant stability was measured using an electronic mobility testing device.

Results: All implants (N = 40) followed up after 6 months in function were osseointegrated and showed good stability. In the presence of good oral hygiene (mPI: 0.3), the parameters SFFR (16) and mSBI (0.7) were indicative of stable and healthy soft tissue. The mean PD was highest at the distal points of measurement (2.4 mm) and was generally at a low level. Neither implant loss nor crown fractures occurred. Chipping of parts of the veneering ceramic was registered in three cases (7.5%).

Conclusions: After 6 months in function, no mechanical failure was registered in any of the all‐ceramic abutments. On clinical investigation, the peri‐implant soft tissues were largely healthy and devoid of inflammation.
Estrogen Withdrawal Transiently Increased Bone Turnover Without Affecting the Bone Balance Along the Tooth Socket in Rats
Authors: Gallina S. , Barranco‐Piedra S. , Torres‐Lagares D. , Baroukh B. , Llorens A. , Gutiérrez‐Pérez J.‐L. , Saffar J.‐L. , Cherruau M. , Lesclous P.
Published: December 2009

Background: Estrogen withdrawal causes marked bone loss in the appendicular skeleton but slightly affects mandibular cancellous bone; in contrast, little is known of its effects on alveolar wall turnover associated with tooth drift. In this study, we assessed short‐term changes in alveolar wall turnover after an ovariectomy and compared it to other bone sites exhibiting different levels of turnover.

Methods: Forty Sprague‐Dawley rats were ovariectomized or sham operated. Right mandibles and femurs were processed without demineralization for bone histomorphometry in three different sites: the alveolar wall around the first molar buccal root, apical interradicular bone, and femoral metaphysis. Bone changes were assessed 14 and 28 days after the ovariectomy. Data were compared using non‐parametric statistics.

Results: At 14 days, on the resorption side of the alveolar wall, resorption parameters were higher in the ovariectomized rats (P <0.01), whereas the formation was lower (P <0.05); on the formation side, the daily mineral apposition rate increased (P <0.01). The root resorption was higher in ovariectomized rats (P <0.05). In the periodontal ligament, the numbers of osteoclast precursors were significantly higher. At 28 days, the drift slowed down in both the sham and ovariectomized groups. The ovariectomy had no effect on interradicular bone turnover, whereas bone loss and numbers of osteoclasts were strongly increased in the femur as soon as 14 days after the ovariectomy.

Conclusions: Estrogen withdrawal had transient repercussions on alveolar wall turnover. The different reactivities of the three envelopes studied suggest that a response to an ovariectomy in the short term is related to initial basal turnover.
Influence of carbohydrates on cell properties of Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Authors: Begovic Jelena , Fira Djordje , Terzic-Vidojevic Amarela , Topisirovic Ljubisa
Published: December 2009

Lactobacilli represent normal commensals of the human body, particularly in the gut and vagina where they protect these environments from incoming pathogens via a variety of mechanisms. The influence of the carbohydrate source present in reconstituted MRS growth medium on the different cell properties of two Lactobacillus rhamnosus strains were examined. Two human vaginal isolates, BGHV719 and exopolysaccharide producer strain BGHV954 were analyzed. The results demonstrated that unlike in reconstituted MRS with glucose as a carbon source, the presence of fructose, mannose, or rhamnose, significantly reduced cell surface hydrophobicity of both strains. In addition, differences in cell wall protein composition of L. rhamnosus BGHV719 and alterations in colony mucoidity of L. rhamnosus BGHV954 were also demonstrated. Light and SEM microscopy revealed differences on the cellular level when BGHV719 was cultivated in the presence of different sugars. The results of this study point out the importance of complex relationships between growth medium composition and the different aspects of bacterial behavior, and call for more detailed analyses of versatile bacterial responses to the changes in the environment, including vaginal ecosystem. This is especially important since lactobacilli are amongst the most widely used of probiotics.
Spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions at a department of Internal Medicine
Authors: Jovic Zorica , Djordjevic Vidojko , Milena Milovanovic , Vasic Karin
Published: December 2009

The aim of the present study was to characterize the pattern of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported in a university teaching hospital in south-east Serbia. The study was conducted based on ADRs reported during a six-month period to the ADR reporting unit of the university clinical center. Evaluation of data was done for various parameters, such as patient demographics, drug and reaction characteristics, and outcome of reactions. Assessment was also done for causality, severity and predisposing factors. During the 6-month study period, 44 ADRs were reported, with an overall incidence of 0.33%. No significant difference was seen in the overall incidence of ADRs observed in males and females. Incidence of ADRs among elderly (43.2%) and older (25%) adults was significantly higher than in other age groups. Type A reactions (66.7%) accounted for majority of the reports. The most commonly affected organ system was the renal system, (22.7%) with hyperkalemia as the only reported reaction. ACE inhibitors (48.6%) were the drug class most commonly involved, where fosinopril (25.7%) was the individual drug most frequently reported. Additional treatment was pursued for management of ADRs in majority (52.3%) of the reports. In 52.3 % of the reports, the patient had recovered from the reaction by the time of evaluation. Upon causality assessment, the majority of the reports were rated as probable (43.2%). Mild and moderate reactions accounted for 43.2% and 54.6%, respectively. In 36.3% of the reports, the reaction was considered to be preventable. The most common predisposing factors were polypharmacy and multiple disease state. The pattern of ADRs reported in our hospital is comparable to the results of studies conducted in hospital set up elsewhere. Our evaluations revealed opportunities for intervention to ensure safer drug use.
Several dystrophin-glycoprotein complex members are present in crude surface membranes but they are sodium dodecyl sulphate invisible in KCl-washed microsomes from mdx mouse muscle
Authors: Daval Stéphanie , Rocher Chantal , Cherel Yan , Rumeur Elisabeth
Published: December 2009

The dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC) is a large trans-sarcolemmal complex that provides a linkage between the subsarcolemmal cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix. In skeletal muscle, it consists of the dystroglycan, sarcoglycan and cytoplasmic complexes, with dystrophin forming the core protein. The DGC has been described as being absent or greatly reduced in dystrophin-deficient muscles, and this lack is considered to be involved in the dystrophic phenotype. Such a decrease in the DGC content was observed in dystrophin-deficient muscle from humans with muscular dystrophy and in mice with X-linked muscular dystrophy (mdx mice). These deficits were observed in total muscle homogenates and in partially membrane-purified muscle fractions, the so-called KCl-washed microsomes. Here, we report that most of the proteins of the DGC are actually present at normal levels in the mdx mouse muscle plasma membrane. The proteins are detected in dystrophic animal muscles when the immunoblot assay is performed with crude surface membrane fractions instead of the usually employed KCl-washed microsomes. We propose that these proteins form SDS-insoluble membrane complexes when dystrophin is absent.
Permian single crystal U-Pb zircon age of the Rožňava Formation volcanites (Southern Gemeric Unit, Western Carpathians, Slovakia)
Authors: Vozárová Anna , Šmelko Miloš , Paderin Ilya
Published: December 2009

Permian single crystal U-Pb zircon age of the Rožňava Formation volcanites (Southern Gemeric Unit, Western Carpathians, Slovakia)

Zircon populations from the Rožňava Formation volcanic rock complex have been analysed. Euhedral zircons from the 1stvolcanogenic horizon with fine oscillatory growth zoning, typical of magmatic origin, gave the average concordia age of 273.3 ± 2.8 Ma, with Th/U ratios in the range of 0.44-0.73. The Permian ages ranging from 266 to 284 Ma were identified in the wider, zoned or unzoned, central zircon parts, as well as in their fine-zoned oscillatory rims. The average concordia age of 275.3 ± 2.9 was obtained from the euhedral zircon population of the 2ndvolcanogenic horizon of the Rožňava Formation. The analyses were performed on zoned magmatic zircons in the age interval from 267 to 287 Ma, with Th/U ratios in the range of 0.39-0.75. In the later zircon population two inherited zircon grains were dated giving the age of 842 ± 12 Ma (Neoproterozoic) and 456 ± 7 Ma (Late Ordovician). The magmatic zircon ages document the Kungurian age of Permian volcanic activity and contemporaneous establishment of the south-Gemeric basin. The time span of volcanic activity corresponds to the collapse of the Western Carpathian Variscan foreland which expanded southward.
The emplacement age of the Muntele Mare Variscan granite (Apuseni Mountains, Romania)
Authors: Balintoni Ioan , Balica Constantin , Cliveţi Monica , Li Li-Qiu , Hann Horst , Chen Fukun , Schuller Volker
Published: December 2009

The emplacement age of the Muntele Mare Variscan granite (Apuseni Mountains, Romania)

Like the Alps and Western Carpathians, the Apuseni Mountains represent a fragment of the Variscan orogen involved in the Alpine crustal shortenings. Thus the more extensive Alpine tectonic unit in the Apuseni Mountains, the Bihor Autochthonous Unit is overlain by several nappe systems. During the Variscan orogeny, the Bihor Unit was a part of the Someş terrane involved as the upper plate in subduction, continental collision and finally in the orogen collapse and exhumation. The Variscan thermotectonic events were marked in the future Bihor Unit by the large Muntele Mare granitoid intrusion, an S-type anatectic body. Zircon U-Pb laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) dating yielded a weighted mean age of 290.9 ± 3.0 Ma and a concordia age of 291.1 ± 1.1 Ma. U-Pb isotope dilution zircon analyses yielded a lower intercept crystallization age of 296.6 + 5.7/-6.2 Ma. These two ages coincide in the error limits. Thus, the Muntele Mare granitoid pluton is a sign of the last stage in the Variscan history of the Apuseni Mountains. Many zircon grains show inheritance and/or Pb loss, typical for anatectic granitoid, overprinted by later thermotectonic events.
Experimental interactions of Slovak bentonites with metallic iron
Authors: Osacký Marek , Honty Miroslav , Madejová Jana , Bakas Thomas , Šucha Vladimír
Published: December 2009

Experimental interactions of Slovak bentonites with metallic iron

The experimental stability of four bentonites and one K-bentonite from Slovak deposits in the presence of iron was studied to simulate the possible reactions of clays (bentonite barrier) in the contact with Fe containers in a nuclear waste repository. The batch experiments were performed at 60 °C for 30 and 120 days in aerobic conditions. The reaction products were examined by XRD, FTIR, and Mössbauer spectroscopies and CEC (cation exchange capacities) were determined. Reaction solutions were analysed for selected elements using AAS (atomic absorption spectrometry). The results show that bentonites do not interact equally with metallic iron. Bentonites from the Jelšový Potok, Kopernica and Lieskovec deposits reacted similarly whereas the interaction between the bentonite from Lastovce and the iron was less intensive. The lower reactivity of the bentonite from Lastovce can be explained by its low content of smectite. During iron-clay interactions the iron was consumed and Fe oxides (magnetite, lepidocrocite) were formed. Decrease of the smectite diffraction peaks intensity and CEC values during the experiments show rather the rearrangement of the original smectite crystals than dissolution of smectite. In the K-bentonite from the Dolná Ves deposit where the mixed-layer illite-smectite is present instead of smectite, the dissolution of illite-smectite was observed along with the neoformation of smectite. The structure of illite-smectite deteriorated more than the structure of smectites which suggests that this mixed-layer illite-smectite is much less stable in the presence of iron than smectites.
Possibilities of protection of the horse-chestnut Aesculus hippocastanum L. against the horse chestnut leaf-miner Cameraria ohridella Deschka et Dimic
Authors: Głowacka Barbara , Lipiński Sławomir , Tarwacki Grzegorz
Published: December 2009

Możliwości ochrony kasztanowca zwyczajnegoAesculus hippocastanumL. przed szrotówkiem kasztanowcowiaczkiemCameraria ohridellaDeschka et Dimic
Analysis of two-stage extraction of Pinus sylvestris L. seeds
Authors: Aniszewska Monika , Jaworski Sebastian
Published: December 2009

Analiza dwuetapowego łuszczenia ze zraszaniem wodą szyszek sosny zwyczajnej Pinus sylvestris L.
The larch bark beetle Ips cembrae (Heer) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in young and older larch stands of southern Poland
Authors: Grodzki Wojciech
Published: December 2009

Kornik modrzewiowiecIps cembrae(Heer) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) w młodnikach i starszych drzewostanach modrzewiowych południowej Polski
Labour consumption during timber harvesting in snowbreak stands
Authors: Sowa Janusz , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Stańczykiewicz Arkadiusz , Grzebieniowski Włodzimierz
Published: December 2009

Pracochłonność pozyskiwania drewna w drzewostanach ze śniegołomami
Application Of New Seismic Technology Offshore UAE
Authors: Walker Chris
Published: December 2009

Description

Whilst the use of Ocean Bottom Cable (OBC) seismic data in the Arabian Gulf is not new, a field study was undertaken in 2008 offshore the United Arab Emirates to investigate whether the excellent imaging capabilities of the latest generation of OBC systems seen elsewhere in the world would be observed in this geophysically challenging area where the combination of a hard water bottom and shallow water give rise to very significant guided wave noise.

Application

The field study was conducted in July 2008 using the VectorSeis Ocean (VSO) system manufactured by ION Geophysical which uses three-component MEMS accelerometers in place of traditional geophones. The survey was able to be acquired using a single vessel since the VSO system uniquely utilises a stand-alone recording buoy for each 1000 data acquisition channels and thus no recorder vessel is required unlike traditional OBC systems.

Results

Although only a limited volume of 2D data were acquired the quality of the field test data is evidenced by the excellence of the tie to the well over which the test line was acquired. Excellent bandwidth is observed in the data at the ARAB levels and the performance of the acquisition system has allowed advanced state-of-the-art processing algorithms to deliver high resolution images of the sub-surface. These results offer the promise that when the dense spatial sampling and wideband sensor response used in this test are applied for 3D or 4D applications in the survey area superior reservoir delineation and characterisation will be achieved.

Significance

Improved resolution seismic data are needed to increase hydrocarbon recovery from existing reservoirs. This field test demonstrates that the application of the latest seismic technology can deliver the "development quality" data needed for such applications in the Arabian Gulf.

Introduction

Whilst the use of Ocean Bottom Cable (OBC) seismic data in the Arabian Gulf is not new, a field study was undertaken in 2008 offshore the United Arab Emirates to investigate whether the enhanced imaging capabilities of the latest generation of OBC systems seen elsewhere in the world would be observed in this geophysically challenging area where the combination of a hard water bottom and shallow water give rise to very significant guided wave noise.
Innovative Environmental Initiatives Adopted At BPC Mumbai Refinery- A case study
Authors: Vyawahare Atul Dattatray
Published: December 2009

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) operates a fuels refinery at Mumbai. BPCL refinery was commissioned in 1955 by the then Burma Shell Refineries Limited, with a design capacity to process 2.2 million metric tones per annum (MMTPA) of crude oil. Currently, refinery has a crude processing capacity of 12.0 MMTPA and can process various types of indigenous and imported crudes. One of the most vital issues for BPCL has been the concern for the conservation of environment. During 55 years of refining, BPCL Mumbai Refinery has witnessed rapid changes in complexity & adaptation of latest technologies from time to time. The various environmental innovations / improvisations have been carried out at BPCL.

Innovative approaches are essential to deal with challenging environment. Refinery has been certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 18025 and OHSAS 18001 reflecting the continuing commitment towards Quality, Environment, and Health & Safety. A well-established Environment Management System is in place in ensuring that all activities are carried out with minimum or no impact on environment. This paper attempts to analyze various benefits accrued under innovative projects implemented.

1.0 Introduction

In its quest for excellence in environmental conservation, Bharat Petroleum has been one of the fore-runners in initiating several environmental protection strategies in refining sector in India. Following is the gist of innovative initiatives adopted at BPC Refinery:1. Air Improvement, Emission Reduction & Vapour Recovery1.1 Refinery upgraded by installing Hydrocracker unit under Refinery Modernization Project for production of Euro lll Grade High Speed Diesel to produce clean automotive fuels in the year 2005. The objective of this project was to produce environment friendly products in line with future requirements and also for reducing source emissions (SO2) from the Refinery. The project improved distillate yield and energy efficiency of the main processes and enhanced the crude oil processing capacity to 12 MMTPA. The project cost was Rs. 11750 Million. The process consists of an integrated Hydrocracker (HCU), integrated Crude & Vacuum Distillation units (CDU / VDU) & Associated Hydrogen, Sulphur Recovery Unit, utilities, LOBS unit to manufacture high performance grade II Lube base oil and offsite facilities. The capacity of HCU is 1.75 MMTPA and has been licensed by M/s. Chevron Lummus Global (CLG). BPC MR is carrying out revamp of Hydrocracker unit, Diesel-Hydrodesulphurisation unit and installation of Continuous Catalytic Reformer unit for production of Euro-IV grade of High Speed Diesel and Motor spirit, facilities for manufacture of Euro IV quality of MS/HSD with lower sulphur content in line with Auto fuel policy.
Success and spontaneous pregnancy rates following systemic methotrexate versus laparoscopic surgery for tubal pregnancies: A randomized trial
Authors: KRAG MOELLER LARS BO , MOELLER CHARLOTTE , THOMSEN STEN GROVE , ANDERSEN LARS FRANCH , LUNDVALL LENE , LIDEGAARD ØEJVIND , KJER JENS JOERGEN , INGEMANSSEN JENS LINDGREN , ZOBBE VIBEKE , FLORIDON CHARLOTTE , PETERSEN JANNE , OTTESEN BENT
Published: December 2009

Objective. To determine which treatment should be offered to women with a non‐ruptured tubal pregnancy: a single dose of methotrexate (MTX) or laparoscopic surgery. Design. Prospective, randomized, open multicenter study. Setting. Seven Danish departments of obstetrics and gynecology. Sample. A total of 106 women diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy (EP). Methods. Between March 1997 and September 2000, 1,265 women were diagnosed with EP, 395 (31%) were eligible, 109 (9%) were randomized of whom 106 had an EP. The study was originally powered to a sample size of 422 patients. The women were randomized to either medical (MTX; 53) or surgical (laparoscopic salpingotomy; 53) treatment. Follow‐up by questionnaire and through national patient databases for a maximum of 10 years. Main outcome measures. Uneventful decline of plasma‐human chorionic gonadotropin to less than 5 IU/L, rates of spontaneous, subsequent intrauterine, and recurrent ectopic pregnancies. Results. The success rates were 74% following MTX treatment and 87% after surgery (n.s.); the subsequent spontaneous intrauterine pregnancy rate was 73% after MTX and 62% after surgery; and the EP rate was 9.6% after MTX and 17.3% following surgery (n.s.). Conclusions. In women with an EP, who are hemodynamically stable and wishing to preserve their fertility, medical treatment with single dose MTX tends to be equal to treatment with laparoscopic surgery regarding success rate, complications, and subsequent fertility. Although the two treatment modalities seemed to be similar in outcome, it is crucial that the diagnosis is based on a high‐quality ultrasonographic evaluation, as two patients had intrauterine pregnancies despite fulfilling the diagnostic algorithm for EP.
Social support after stillbirth for prevention of maternal depression
Authors: SURKAN PAMELA J. , RÅDESTAD INGELA , CNATTINGIUS SVEN , STEINECK GUNNAR , DICKMAN PAUL W.
Published: December 2009

Objective. To study how social support is associated with ensuing maternal depression following stillbirth. Design. Data from a population‐based national postal questionnaire. Setting. Sweden. Population. A total of 314 (83%) of all 380 Swedish‐speaking women who gave birth to singleton stillborn infants in Sweden during 1991, identified through the Swedish Medical Birth Register. Methods. Postal questionnaires addressing maternal social support and demographics were completed three years following the stillbirth. The association between support‐related factors and later maternal depression was assessed using multivariable regression models. Main outcome measure. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results. In adjusted analyses, a father's refusal to talk about a stillborn baby with the mother was associated with an almost five‐fold risk of later maternal depressive symptoms [adjusted risk ratio (RR) 4.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5–14.5]. The mother's belief that she could talk with the infant's father about the child was associated with a reduced risk (adjusted RR 0.5, 95% CI 0.1–0.9). Conclusions. Unwillingness of the father to discuss a stillborn infant with the mother was related to subsequent maternal depressive symptomatology.
Maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes in women presenting with decreased fetal movements in late pregnancy
Authors: HOLM TVEIT JULIE VICTORIA , SAASTAD ELI , STRAY‐PEDERSEN BABILL , BØRDAHL PER E , FRØEN J FREDERIK
Published: December 2009

Objective. ‘Normal’ fetal activity is recognized as a sign of fetal well‐being and concerns for decreased fetal movements is a frequent cause of non‐scheduled antenatal visits. The aim of this study was to identify maternal characteristics in women presenting decreased fetal movements in a total population, to identify the risk of adverse outcomes and assess the management provided. Design. Prospective population‐based cohort. Setting. Fourteen delivery units in Norway. Population. A total of 2,374 pregnancies presenting with a perception of decreased fetal movements and 614 control/referent cases. Methods. All singleton third trimester pregnancies presenting with a perception of decreased fetal movements were registered from June 2004 through October 2005. Pregnancies never examined for this condition were collected as a cross‐sectional sample from the same population. Main outcome measures. Fetal growth restriction, preterm birth and stillbirth. Results. Mothers with decreased fetal movements were more often smokers, overweight and primiparous. Of the women, 32% presented with perceived absence of fetal movements, of whom 25% waited for more than 24 hours without any movements. Abnormal findings were identified in 16% of examinations. Decreased fetal movements were associated with adverse pregnancy outcome in 26%, including preterm birth and fetal growth restriction. An intervention or repeated consultations were performed in 41% of cases, including 14% admissions to maternity ward. None of the included hospitals had written guidelines for management. Conclusions. A perception of decreased fetal movements is significantly associated with adverse pregnancy outcome such as preterm birth, fetal growth restriction and stillbirth. Guidelines for management and information to pregnant women are needed.
ANOMALIES OF UTERINE ACTION AND THEIR TREATMENT
Authors: KÆRN TEIT
Published: December 2009

“Abnormal uterine action in labour remains a clinical problem, difficult to understand and to treat.”

Jeffcoate, 1950.
Endocrinology of the Foetus
Authors: Diczfalusy Egon
Published: December 2009

“And so from hour to hour, we ripe and ripe, and then, from hour to hour, we rot and rot, and thereby hangs a tale.” Shakespeare
Post‐Operative Wound Complications
Authors: Siimes Anja , Vartiainen Eero , Widholm Olof
Published: December 2009

Abstract. The wound complications occurring after a total of over 32 000 gynaecological operations from 1955 to 1967 have been analysed. The average rate of infection was 2.9%. Staphylococcus aureus was found in 29% of cases and in 24% of swabs E. coli was observed. Altogether Gram‐negative bacilli were found in 27% of the infected wounds. Clear differences can be noticed in the numbers of complications following different operations, the fewest complications occurring after abortion made by hysterotomy and operations for malignant disease, and the greatest number after total hysterectomies and operations for incontinence. Prophylactic appendicectomies increased the rate of wound infections to 4.3%.
Results of the Treatment of Carcinoma of the Cervix Uteri
Authors: Nieminen Usko , Pöllänen Leo
Published: December 2009

A series of 640 cases of carcinoma of the cervix uteri collected in 1959–63 from the First and Second Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Central Hospital, Helsinki, was analysed.

The treatment for 461 (73%) of the patients was radiologic. Their 5 year cure rate was 39.1%. Combined therapy (surgery ± radiation) was the treatment for 173 (27%) patients and the 5 year cure rate was 82.1%. The total 5 year cure rate was 50.1%.

The 5 year cure rate for stage I (226 patients) was 81.4%; for stage II (243 patients) 44.9%; for stage III (148 patients) 16.9%, and for stage IV (17 patients) 5.9%. The series included 6 patients with carcinoma of the cervix and corpus of whom one was alive after 5 years.
Fertility in Patients with Ovarian Endometriosis Before and After Treatment
Authors: Petersohn Lennart
Published: December 2009

172 patients with endometriosis were investigated. 125 were trying to conceive at the time of treatment. The following are the salient points of the investigation. (1) 64% of the patients with a desire for pregnancy at the time of treatment had primary sterility. (2) No correlation between the duration of sterility in years and the development of adhesions was found. (3) The surgical findings were of importance in predicting the chances of a pregnancy. If only simple endometrial cysts were present, the chance of becoming pregnant after the operation was almost 80%, whereas if cysts and adhesions existed, only 40% of patients conceived. (4) The duration of previous sterility was not found to affect the prospects of pregnancy. (5) The frequency of abortion was markedly reduced after the operation.
Apparent Lack of Ovarian Oestrogen Synthesis Associated with Ovulation and Corpus Luteum Formation
Authors: Tillinger K.‐G. , Johannisson E. , Lisboa B. P. , Reaside J. I. , Diczfalusy E.
Published: December 2009

Abstract. A patient is described with primary amenorrhoea, elevated urinary pregnanediol and pregnanetriol and diminished aldosterone excretion and with clinical signs of hypooestrogenism, but without signs of virilization. Sequential stimulation by large doses of human menopausal and chorionic gonadotrophins resulted in the formation of several Graafian follicles and fresh corpora lutea. These morphological changes were not accompanied by any clinical signs of an increased oestrogen secretion or by an increased urinary oestrogen excretion. Tracer studies revealed that the patient was capable of carrying out a 17α‐hydroxylation, but not the removal of the steroid side‐chain. It is concluded that ovulation and corpus luteum formation in women are not dependent on a concomitant oestrogen synthesis by the maturing follicle.
Die Bedeutung Des Fehlens Einer Arterie in Der Nabelschnur
Authors: Cederqvist Lars
Published: December 2009

Abstract. In a 5‐year delivery series of 19,422 cases lending itself well to epidemiologic studies, the aplasia of one umbilical artery was present in 0.27 %. Of these, 32% had other congenital malformations. In those cases, where one umbilical artery was missing without other congenital malformations, there was no increased incidence of prematurity but an increased incidence of low birth weight was present, which, however, was not statistically significant. If the aplasia of the umbilical artery was combined with other congenital malformations, a clear prematurity and a significant low birth weight were present. The anomaly was equally frequent for primiparae and multiparae. No seasonal variation was found. It is plausible to suggest from some of the cases of this series that both exogenic agens and hereditary factors can cause absence of one umbilical artery.
Serum Concentration of Human Placental Lactogenic Hormone (HPL) in Pregnancy Complications
Authors: Seppälä Markku , Ruoslahti Erkki
Published: December 2009

Abstract. HPL concentration was determined by an immunochemical method from 48 serum samples of 41 women with a complication of pregnancy. While no correlation was found between HPL and pregnancy week, a statistically significant correlation was observed between HPL and oestriol. Placental and infant birth weights had a highly significant correlation with HPL. No significant deviation from the standard was observed in the serum HPL of toxaemia patients, or in HPL of those with prolonged pregnancies or variations in foetal heart rate. Because of great individual variation no general limits could be calculated for maternal serum HPL concentration at 30–42 weeks of pregnancy.
Experience of the Use of Intranasal, Buccal and Intravenous Oxytocin as Methods of Inducing Labour
Authors: Laine Jarno
Published: December 2009

Abstract. A clinical trial with intravenous, buccal and intranasal oxytocin used to perform 445 inductions of labour is reviewed. The factors affecting the course, complications and outcome of induction are analysed. A fairly satisfactory result was achieved with all the methods. The intranasal preparation (Partocon IN®) appeared to be a little more effective than the other drugs. Maternal complications were few. Neonatal asphyxia occurred in 5.5% of cases. Three children (one in each induction group) were lost: one died intrapartum, the other two soon after birth. Intravenous, buccal and intranasal oxytocin are good tools in the obstetrician's hands provided the indications for induction are carefully considered, the patienťs readiness for induction is studied carefully, the timing is correct and the procedure is closely supervised.
A New Method for Studying the Motility of the Fallopian Tubes
Authors: Fernström Ingmar
Published: December 2009

A new method for investigating the motility of the Fallopian tubes is described. A few droplets of iodized oil are injected into one tube and their pattern of behaviour is studied by X‐ray fluorography, using both a television picture and a cine‐film.

It was found that the behaviour of the droplets appears to follow a specific pattern, but that some variations occur.

Technically the technique is relatively simple and does not cause much discomfort to the patient. It permits a reasonable assessment of the peristaltic activity of the tubes to be made.