bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatic Analysis of Evolutional Conservatism and Functional Significance of Microsatellite Alleles of Human 14Q13.2 Region Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sjakste Tatjana , Poudžiunas Ilva , Pīrāgs Valdis , Lazdiñš Māris , Sjakste Nikolajs 
Published: December 2008

Bioinformatic Analysis of Evolutional Conservatism and Functional Significance of Microsatellite Alleles of Human 14Q13.2 Region Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
The paper deals with bioinformatic and statistical analysis of the possible functional significance of the previously shown association of several microsatellite alleles in intron 6 of the human proteasome core particle PSMA6 gene (HSMS006) and four other microsatellites localised upstream in human chromosome 14q13.2 (HSMS801, HSMS702, HSMS701, HSMS602) with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Latvia and Botnia, Finland. Genotype analysis revealed that (CAA)8/(CAA)8 homozygotes of the HSMS602 marker were never found in Type 2 diabetes patients, although 6.56% of the individuals from the control groups were the (CAA)8/(CAA)8 homozygotes. For the HSMS801 marker the (AC)21/(AC)23 genotype was never found in the case group and in the control group it was detected with a frequency 4.40%; these differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). In contrast to the Latvian population, the distribution of genotype frequencies in cases and controls taken from the Botnian dataset was almost similar. Haplotype analysis showed that in the Latvian population besides haplotypes including alleles differently represented in case and control groups, a combination of some alleles almost equally represented in both groups formed combinations that were more characteristic of either the case group or the control group. This indicates probable independent functional significance of these haplotypes that warrants further investigation. In the Botnian population, more allele combinations were observed, and the distribution of haplotypes in case and control groups differed from that observed in Latvia. The observed haplotype distributions might reflect differences between the studied populations: a homogenous and isolated Botnian vis-à-vis a mixed Latvian population. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis of data on the Latvian population revealed nine of ten two-allele combinations manifesting a high LD. HSMS006 and HSMS602 combination had a low LD; among the analysed markers these were situated at the largest distance from one another. Data on the Botnian population showed that haplotypes in eight of ten combinations had a high LD, including the HSMS006 and HSMS602 combinations. It appears that the two populations differ also in linkage disequilibrium of two-loci haplotypes. Theoretical analysis of a potential functional role of the polymorphisms indicated the significance of the microsatellite length of HSMS602 and HSMS006 for the formation of DNA hairpins. The whole genomic region appears to be conservative in mammals.
Effects of Different Epidural Analgesic Compositions on Postoperative Pain Relief and Systemic Response to Surgery
Authors: Golubovska Iveta , Studers Pēteris , Jaunalksne Inta , Vanags Indulis 
Published: December 2008

Effects of Different Epidural Analgesic Compositions on Postoperative Pain Relief and Systemic Response to SurgeryDespite many achievements during the last decade, postoperative pain remains the dominant complaint after major surgery and has great potential to be influenced by the anaesthesiologist. Reports suggest that short-term effective anaesthesia and analgesia can have long-lasting beneficial effects on recovery from surgery. The aim of our study is to compare the effect of epidural analgesia, using different compositions, including glucocorticoids (methylprednisolone), and habitual composition of bupivacaine-morphine, in regard to analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. A total of 129 patients participated in the study in four different treatment groups: patients from Group I received glucocorticoid methylprednisolone succinate and long-acting opioid morphine hydrochloride, Group II received local anaesthetic bupivacaine hydrochloride and morphine hydrochloride, Group III received methylprednisolone succinate and short-acting opioid fentanyl, and Group IV received glucocorticoid methylprednisolone succinate. We obtained good analgesic profiles in all groups. However, significantly better results were achieved using the combination of methylprednisolone and morphine. Epidural methylprednisolone in dose 80 mg/24 h is more effective, compared to the conventional local anaesthetics-opioid composition, when administered as a part of multimodal preventive postoperative analgesia after major joint replacement surgery. Epidural methylprednisolone has a reliable anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory potential. It attenuates profiles of acute inflammatory response markers as Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein and stress hormone cortisol. The novelty of this study was application of epidural glucocorticoids for acute postoperative pain relief as part of daily perioperative care. By developing studies on anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of glucocorticoids, we expect to improve patient rehabilitation in the postoperative period.
Strategy for Further Growth of Latvia and Baltic Sea Region: Systematic Aspects
Authors: Karnītis Edvīns 
Published: December 2008

Strategy for Further Growth of Latvia and Baltic Sea Region: Systematic Aspects
To ensure further sustainable growth, a system of strategic planning documents is developing in Latvia. The Saeima (Parliament) has determined a knowledge-based and human-centred growth scenario for Latvia, defining existent resources, setting goals (increase of life quality for each inhabitant of the country) and strategic principles to achieve the goal. The Cabinet of Ministers approved the National Development Plan 2007-2013 as a mid-term programme for implementation of the model; an integrated quality of life index was prescribed as the main development indicator. There is a similar approach and processes of development in all Baltic Sea Region countries; actually, all of them are interested in interchange of experience and strong transnational cooperation.
Her2 Expression and Response of Breast Cancer to Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Hegmane Alinta , Vikmanis Uldis 
Published: December 2008

Her2 Expression and Response of Breast Cancer to Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Expression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2) in breast cancer patients may predict response to anthracycline or non anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy. A total of 192 breast cancer patients diagnosed at the Latvian Oncology Centre from January 2002 to August 2005 were included in the study. Patients had histopathologically confirmed breast cancer, had undergone radical surgery and received at least four courses of adjuvant chemotherapy. HER2 expression was evaluated by immunohystochemical analysis. Median follow-up time was 32.1 months. In HER2 negative patients, the mean time to recurrence was 26.9 months (SD 1.465; 95%CI 23.9-29.4) for patients received antracycline-based chemotherapy and 33.2 months (SD 1.308; 95%CI 30.6-35.8) in the CMF chemotherapy group (P < 0.05). These HER2 negative patients could be treated with a less toxic regimen of CMF. In HER2 overexpressed patients receiving anthracycline based chemotherapy, mean time to recurrence was 30 months (SD 2.170; 95%CI 25.7-34.4) compared with 29.2 months (SD 1.965; 95%CI 25.4-33.1) in patients who received CMF, but the difference was not significant (P > 0.05).
Identification of A Novel Mutation in RYR1 Gene in Malignant Hyperthermia-Like Patient's Family Members
Authors: Kauliñš Tālis , Proñina Natālija , Rüffert Henrik , Wehner Markus , Mihelsons Māris , Osipova Oksana , Miščuks Aleksejs 
Published: December 2008

Identification of A Novel Mutation in RYR1 Gene in Malignant Hyperthermia-Like Patient's Family Members
Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare pharmacogenetic disorder with an autosomal dominant inheritance that presents as a hypermetabolic response in skeletal muscle to volatile anaesthetic (halothane, isoflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane) and the depolarising muscle relaxant succinil-choline and rarely to stresses such as vigorous exercise and heat. We investigated the relatives of an individual with suspected MH and found a novel mutation in RYR1 gene. The molecular analysis of RYR1 gene revealed a novel nucleotide substitution in exon 6 - G528T (Glu-176-Asp) in four family members of the patient. The in vitro contracture test (IVCT) according to the European Malignant Hyperthermia Group (EMHG) guidelines showed a MH susceptible phenotype in two tested family members.
Regional Lung Blood Perfusion Measured With Laser Doppler Method During Body Position Change, Valsalva Manoeuvre and Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Taivans Immanuels , Strazda Gunta , Porīte Nora , Vanags Indulis , Lejnieks Juris , Lācis Romāns , Strīķe Eva 
Published: December 2008

Regional Lung Blood Perfusion Measured With Laser Doppler Method During Body Position Change, Valsalva Manoeuvre and Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Methodological approaches to investigate local regulatory mechanisms of lung blood supply in humans are restricted. We tried a new approach using laser Doppler technique. During bronchoscopy, an angled laser Doppler flow probe was introduced through a biopsy channel and wedged into small bronchus. Laser light penetrated the wall of small bronchus and was reflected from blood cells running through neighbouring capillaries. Regional blood perfusion changes were recorded during body position change from vertical to supine and back to vertical, while performing Valsalva maneuver and during cardiac bypass surgery. Body position change and Valsalva maneuver markedly influenced the blood perfusion signal. During cardiac bypass when lungs were supplied with blood only through bronchial arteries regional blood perfusion dropped substantially on average from 93 ± 42 to 7.3 ± 4.3 perfusion units. We conclude that blood perfusion measured with this method reflect mainly the pulmonary vascular bed and may be used for investigation of its local regulatory mechanisms.
Comparison Of Stress Response Performing Endotracheal Intubation By Direct Laryngoscopy, Fibreoptic Intubation And Intubation By The Glidescope Laryngoscope
Authors: Jakušenko Nataļja , Kopeika Uldis , Mihelsons Māris , Nagobade Dace , Vija Putniña Aina , Pavārs Andrejs 
Published: December 2008

Comparison Of Stress Response Performing Endotracheal Intubation By Direct Laryngoscopy, Fibreoptic Intubation And Intubation By The Glidescope Laryngoscope
Stress response is regulated by two primary neuroendocrine systems—the hypothalamuspituitary- adrenocortical (HPA) and sympathetic adrenomedullary (SAM) systems. Salivary alphaamylase (AA) levels can be used as an index of the SAM activity, and serum cortisol as an index of HPA activity. The aim of the study was to compare patient stress response to different intubation techniques. Sixty adult patients, ASA I-III, scheduled for elective abdominal surgery were included in this study, with median age of 54±18 years. Patients were prospectively randomly divided into three groups-intubation with a GlideScope (GS), Macintosh laringoscope (ML) and PENTAX fibreoptic bronchoscope (FB). After preoxygenation for 3 min anaesthesia was induced with fentanyl 2 mkg/kg, mivacuronium 0.2 mg/kg and propofol 2 mg/kg, injected intravenously over 20 seconds. Intubation was started 2 min after mivacuronium injection. Anaesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane 1-2 vol% and fentanyl 1 mkg/kg as needed. Intubation time (IT) was measured, blood and saliva samples were collected before and shortly after intubation. Haemodynamic response was recorded. Intubation time was statistically significantly longer in the FB group (120±65 s) versus the ML group (29±5 s) and GS group (26±9 s), P < 0.05. In the three patients groups the initial AA level was similar (54±20 KU/ml, P > 0.05). In GS patients the alpha amylase level after intubation significantly decreased (42±15 KU/ml, P < 0.05), but in ML and FB patients—significantly increased (68±24 KU/ml and 73±32 KU/ml, respectively, P < 0.05). After intubation, blood cortisol did not differ between the ML (377±181 U/ml) and GS (484±61 U/ml) patient groups, but was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the FB group (530±79 U/ml). Both heart rate and blood pressure increased during intubation, the difference between groups was not significant. All intubations were successful, but in the FB patient group IT was significantly longer than in the ML and GS patient group. IT in the GS and FB patient groups did not statistically significantly differ. In our opinion, shorter and more confident intubations with a GlideScope produce less nociceptive stimulus and less stress to the patient. Intubations using GlideScope videolaryngoscope causes lesser stress response in comparison to intubation with a Macintosh laryngoscope or fibreoptic bronchoscope.
Material and Energy Balances for Sulfur Disposal in Sulfates
Authors: Rappold Tim , Lackner Klaus  S. 
Published: December 2008

Abstract
Excess production of by-product sulfur from oil and gas requires sequestration beyond acid gas injection and the piling of elemental sulfur. Here we introduce a process concept for the disposal of sulfur as magnesium sulfate brine. Besides H2S and air, the process requires the addition of an alkaline mineral, such as olivine (Mg2SiO4), and water or seawater. As a waste product, MgSO4 is benign and thermodynamically stable. The product brine could therefore be disposed of in the ocean or in permeable underground formations, without the need to closely monitor its fate. The overall process is highly exothermic (895 kJ/mol S) and can provide carbon-neutral thermal energy for steam generation and other processes. Two unit processes are reviewed to assess their potential to operate at industrial reaction conditions (~ 1 µmol/cm3/sec). The unit processes include the absorption of SO2 into aqueous solution and its subsequent catalytic oxidation to yield dilute sulfuric acid, anda neutralizing unit, which dissolves the mineral olivine in the acid.
The reaction kinetics of the neutralizing unit is favorable; the development of the absorbing-oxidizing unit will require additional research.
Seligi : Complex Modeling Case Study and Optimization of a Malay Basin Giant
Authors: Frankel David Stanley , Abdullah Muhammad Aw Yong , Hartshone Nathan , Yap Kok-Thye , Kechut Nor Idah , Abdul Razak Ezzam 
Published: December 2008

Abstract
This paper describes a two-year effort by ExxonMobil and PETRONAS to develop a simulation model of a complex Seligi group J-sand, a major reservoir of this Malay Basin giant. This joint study demonstrated the successful collaboration between ExxonMobil and PETRONAS to enhance the existing depletion plan and identify improved oil recovery opportunities. This J-sand contains roughly 750 to 850 million stb of oil originally in place in this maturing offshore reservoir in the Malay Basin comprising multiple interdependent closures with relatively thin oil columns and large gas caps. The reservoir communicates with nine producing fields via a common regional aquifer encompassing an area of more than 7000 square kilometers.
Seligi was challenging to model because of its large size (8km x 12km), long history (30 years), significant gas and water coning issues, and its interaction with the regional aquifer. This paper will highlight techniques that were critical in creating an integrated simulation model of the field and regional aquifer, managing large quantities of data, and evaluating history match improvements due to the large well count and interdependent closures. The integrated simulation model was created from two geomodels of different vintages by seamlessly integrating the coarsely gridded Regional Aquifer Model, required for capturing the material balance impact of neighboring fields, and the finely gridded Seligi model to simulate field performance. Advances in reservoir simulation capabilities allowed a large single integrated model to be built, significantly reducing turnaround time from the previous version, where two models were run in tandem.
This study resulted in the recommendation to increase the OOIP by nearly 20% and has been the catalyst for focusing on production enhancement opportunities. The model is currently being used to identify and highgrade opportunities to maximize economic hydrocarbon recovery.
Development Of Natural Gas Supply Chain By Means Of Natural Gas Hydrate (NGH)
Authors: Nogami Tomoori , Watanabe Shigeru 
Published: December 2008

Abstract
Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (MES) has been conducting research and development on natural gas hydrate (NGH) technology since 1990s. Since NGH can be stabilized at 253K and is easy to handle, NGH is expected to be an alternative natural gas transportation medium against currently available system including liquefied natural gas (LNG), for the initial investment is considered lower under the certain conditions.
Based on the research and development, MES stepped further to practical stage and has been implementing a joint project, which involves an NGH production plant of 5 tpd (NGH)(under commissioning), together with The Chugoku Electric Power Co., Inc. (CEP) with assistance of New Energy Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), a governmental institute of Japan since 2006. The purpose of the project is to demonstrate natural gas land transportation by means of NGH. In parallel, MES has been studying feasibility study of NGH ocean transportation chain together with Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui) and their joint company named NGH Japan Co., Ltd. (NGHJ). The study has been conducted on certain cases in Southeast Asia in cooperation with six leading Japanese companies and with assistance of Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC).
According to the study, NGH ocean transportation chain can be considered economical compared with conventional LNG system under some conditions including the capacity and distance of natural gas to transport. Furthermore, MES, Mitsui and NGHJ are drawing a plan of pilot marine transportation project with 100 to 200 tpd (NGH) production. If it could be materialized, NGH supply chain will take a step closer to commercialization.
NGH will provide a new option to monetize small to medium or stranded gas fields that are left undeveloped with existing technology due to its low economical efficiency, and the diversification of distribution method will also contribute to stably deliver low-cost natural gas to the districts where are isolated from current gas supply chains.

Introduction
Since the idea of ocean transportation of natural gas by means of NGH utilizing so called "self-preservation effect" was advocated by Dr. Gudmundsson of Norwegian University of Science and Technology in 1996, various kinds of research on NGH ocean transportation chain have been made in all over the world, as in the case of Marathon Oil Corporation which constructed a test plant of NGH production and started its experimental operation in the United States. MES has been continuously investing in research and development for NGH technology, just like as it has been conducting its research and development on NGH production process, carrier ship, and re-gasification process, etc. since 2001, and as it constructed the experimental plant for process development (Process Development Unit: PDU) and the research and development facility for mixed gas based process incorporating a pelletizer (Bench Scale Unit: BSU) and continued their experimental operation.
Skills Shortages, How Mutual Dependency and Entrepreneurialism Can Fill the Gap Left by the Majors
Authors: Stuart Colin , Spangarkar Sunil 
Published: December 2008

Abstract
A case history is described of a graduate training programme for drilling engineers, showing how two independent companies, one an International Drilling Contractor, the other an experience based Drilling Engineering Consultancy, combined their unique resources to create a successful ‘ground up’ engineering development programme localized to Southeast Asia, and outside of major Oil Company funding.
The complexity of drilling in the current crunch for resources, means that drilling contractors and independent oil companies who may not have all the expertise in house, would want to tap diverse pools of knowledge, or may be in a stage of growth that does not justify keeping large unused capacity as overhead, need to explore collaborative business models that aim at unique value creation or risk reduction. The current collaboration displays both these features.
The paper explains how the training programme was postulated, partners were proposed, and the key drivers for each participant were explored and agreed. One partner benefited from access to practical rig based training opportunities, while the other benefited from enhanced well engineering risk assessment advice, particularly in HPHT drilling. Some examples will be shown of other tangible benefits for each partner.
The use of noninvasive electromagnetic neuronavigation for slit ventricle syndrome and complex hydrocephalus in a pediatric population
Authors: Clark Simon , Sangra Meharpal , Hayhurst Caroline , Kandasamy Jothi , Jenkinson Michael , Lee Maggie , Mallucci Conor 
Published: December 2008

Object
The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the use of noninvasive electromagnetic neuronavigation in children, in particular its use in complex hydrocephalus and slit ventricle syndrome.

Methods
Prospective data was collected from all pediatric patients undergoing insertion of ventriculoperitoneal shunts using electromagnetic frameless neuronavigation from January 2006 to November 2007.

Results
Twenty-three patients fulfilled the study criteria. All ventricles were cannulated on the first pass. There were no immediate or early postprocedural complications. All but 1 patient had resolution of symptoms (mainly chronic headache) on follow-up (median 7 months, range 1–17 months). The proximal revision rate was 9% (2 of 23 patients). One patient required distal catheter revision. Infection occurred in 1 patient.

Conclusions
Electromagnetic neuronavigation using a frameless and pinless system is especially suited for pediatric patients. The authors hypothesize that successful placement of ventricular catheters will reduce morbidity and improve shunt longevity.
Design process of the Memorial Cathedral for World Peace (1954), Hiroshima, by Togo Murano (Part 3): Formal manipulations observed in the process of schematic design of the cathedral (1948)
Authors: Tomioka Yoshito , Tabata Chikako 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe collection of Kyoto Institute of Technology features numerous sketches and drawings scanning wide variety of exterior compositions of the cathedral. Togo Murano recalled that receiving the understanding and approval of the Fathers was challenging. This study analyzes the creative evolution of the cathedral's exterior form until the conclusion of the schematic design in November 1948. The proposed analytical method was applied to completely undated sketches and drawings to reveal the architect's morphological creation. Furthermore, it revealed the development of diverse types in an extremely short period, as well as the architect's design thinking and strategy in this phase.