bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a commercially available modified-live Streptococcus equi subsp equi vaccine in ponies
Authors: Borst Luke B. , Patterson Sheila K. , Lanka Saraswathi , Barger Anne M. , Fredrickson Richard L. , Maddox Carol W.
Published: August 2011

Objective—To evaluate a commercially available modified-live Streptococcus equi subsp equi vaccine for safety and persistence in vaccinated ponies and to detect recombination or reversion events in the vaccine strain.

Animals—5 ponies that were 1.5 to 8 years old (group 1) and 4 ponies that were 6 months old (group 2).

Procedures—Ponies were vaccinated, with a subsequent booster vaccination 2 to 3 weeks later, and monitored for 50 days. At booster vaccination, an equal amount of a tetracycline-resistant wild-type strain of S equiwas administered. Recovery of all strains was performed by use of bacteriologic culture and PCR assays.

Results—Ponies in group 1 had background antibody titers against S equi antigen before vaccination despite the lack of known exposure to S equi. Ponies in group 2 were immunologically naïve. Increases in anti-S equi antibody titers were detected in both groups. Ponies in group 1 did not have clinical signs of disease caused by S equi. In group 2, all ponies developed abscesses in retropharyngeal lymph nodes; 1 pony developed severe clinical disease and was euthanized. The vaccine strain was recovered from ponies in group 2 for up to 24 days after vaccination.

Conclusions and Clinical Significance—Although the vaccine was successful in inducing IgG antibodies against S equi in all ponies, findings suggested that the vaccine may have caused substantial morbidity and some deaths in the young ponies. In young ponies, the vaccine strain persisted in tissues for weeks; however, no evidence of recombination was detected.
Results of biopsy via transurethral cystoscopy and cystotomy for diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder and urethra in dogs: 92 cases (2003–2008)
Authors: Childress Michael O. , Adams Larry G. , Ramos-Vara José A. , Freeman Lynetta J. , He Shuang , Constable Peter D. , Knapp Deborah W.
Published: August 2011

Objective—To assess the diagnostic utility of transurethral cystoscopic biopsy in dogs with histologically confirmed transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary bladder and urethra.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—92 dogs with histologically confirmed TCC.

Procedures—Information on sex, breed, neuter status, body weight, tumor location, biopsy method, number of biopsy procedures, experience level of clinician performing biopsy, and quality of biopsy sample was obtained from medical records. The association of variables with likelihood of achieving a diagnostic-quality biopsy sample was evaluated by use of logistic regression.

Results—If used as the initial biopsy method, cystoscopic biopsy samples were of diagnostic quality in 65% of male dogs and 96% of female dogs with histologically confirmed TCC. Cystoscopic biopsy samples were significantly more likely to be of diagnostic quality in female dogs than in male dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cystoscopic biopsy is an effective method to obtain biopsy samples in dogs with TCC of the bladder and urethra. Cystoscopy is more likely to produce a diagnostic-quality biopsy sample in female dogs with TCC than in male dogs with TCC. Cystoscopy should be considered as a primary means of biopsy in male and female dogs with masses of the urinary bladder or urethra.
Consequences of intratumoral injection of a herbal preparation containing blood root (Sanguinaria canadensis) extract in two dogs
Authors: Childress Michael O. , Burgess Richard C. F. , Holland Christine H. , Gelb Hylton R.
Published: August 2011

Case Description—2 dogs were referred for surgical removal of cutaneous tumors that had previously been treated by intratumoral injection of a herbal preparation containing blood-root (Sanguinaria canadensis) extract.

Clinical Findings—11 days following injection of bloodroot extract into a small dermal tumor, dog 1 developed a large, soft, fluctuant cutaneous mass at the site of injection. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the mass revealed a fluid-filled central cavity with increased echogenicity of the surrounding subcutaneous tissues. Dog 2 had a small dermal tumor under the left mandible that had been treated in similar fashion. However, an exuberant reaction was not observed following injection of bloodroot extract in this dog.

Treatment and Outcome—Both dogs underwent surgical excision of the cutaneous tumors. Histologic evaluation revealed severe necrosis and inflammation in the excised tissues from dog 1. This dog experienced postsurgical wound complications and had a prolonged postsurgical recovery. Similar, although less severe, histopathologic findings were apparent in the excised tissues from dog 2; this dog recovered without complications.

Clinical Relevance—Various products containing bloodroot are marketed on the Internet for topical and parenteral treatment of cutaneous neoplasms in domestic animals. However, the antineoplastic properties, therapeutic efficacy, and adverse effects of these products are poorly described in the veterinary literature. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for harm caused by the use of these products.
Effect of buffer layers on performance of organic photovoltaic devices based on copper phthalocyanine-perylene dye heterojunction
Authors: Signerski R. , Jarosz G.
Published: August 2011

The work presents the results of research on the systems formed from thin films of copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), N-N′-dimethylperylene-3,4,9,10-dicarboximide (MePTCDI), electrodes of ITO and Ag, and from buffer layers: MoO3 at ITO and BCP at Ag. We have observed the effect of each buffer layer on voltage dependence of dark current and photocurrent, and on open circuit voltage-light intensity relationship. The system with both buffer layers exhibited the highest values of open circuit voltage and fill factor. The buffer layers improve transport of charge carriers within near-electrode regions, reduce dissociation of excitons on electrodes and reveal processes of charge carrier generation and recombination within the CuPc/MePTCDI junction.
Issues related to Health Promotional measures at workplace
Authors: Ganesh S Kumar
Published: August 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v1i1.4306 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 1 (2011) 5-6
School Teachers: Job Stress and Job Satisfaction, Kaski, Nepal
Authors: Mondal Jaita , Shrestha Sandhya , Bhaila Archana
Published: August 2011

In teaching profession, distress has been linked to dissatisfaction with job and to negative affective and professional consequences. In the present study, the attempt was made to identify the level of job stress and job satisfaction among teachers in consideration with their gender differences along with age and experiences. Study comprised of randomly selected 69 school teachers from Pokhara, Nepal. Socio economic data of the subjects were collected by questionnaire. Modified TJSQ and Modified TARSO were applied to identify the Job satisfaction and Job stress of the subjects. Data from acceptable returned questionnaires were analyzed by SPSS 17. It can be concluded from the analysis that, the school teachers were partly satisfied and experiencing mild to moderate stress from their job overall. These can be the resultant of unfavorable job condition and job types for the school teachers. Key Words: School Teacher; Job Stress; Job Satisfaction DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v1i1.5226 International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, Vol 1 (2011) 27-33
Predictors of seizure freedom after resection of supratentorial low-grade gliomas
Authors: Englot Dario J. , Berger Mitchel S. , Barbaro Nicholas M. , Chang Edward F.
Published: August 2011

Object

Seizures are the most frequent presenting symptom in patients with low-grade gliomas (LGGs), and significantly influence quality of life if they are uncontrolled. Achieving freedom from seizures is of utmost importance in surgical planning, but the factors associated with seizure control remain incompletely understood.

Methods

The authors performed a systematic literature review of seizure outcomes after resection of LGGs causing seizures, examining 773 patients across 20 published series. Rates of seizure freedom were stratified across 7 variables: patient age, tumor location, preoperative seizure control with medication, seizure semiology, epilepsy duration, extent of resection, and the use of intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG).

Results

Gross-total resection was most predictive of complete seizure freedom, when compared with subtotal resection (OR 3.41, 95% CI 2.36–4.93). Other predictors of seizure freedom included preoperative seizure control on antiepileptic medication (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.33–3.38) and duration of seizures of ≤ 1 year (OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.22–2.79). Patients with simple partial seizure semiology achieved seizure freedom less often than those with complex partial, generalized, or mixed seizure types (OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.80). No significant differences in seizure outcome were observed between adults versus children, patients with temporal lobe versus extratemporal tumors, or with the use of intraoperative ECoG.

Conclusions

Seizure control is one of the most important considerations in planning surgery for low-grade brain tumors. Gross-total resection is a critical factor in achieving seizure freedom.
Cranial vault remodeling for sagittal craniosynostosis in older children
Authors: Rottgers S. Alex , Kim Peter D. , Kumar Anand Raj , Cray James J. , Losee Joseph E. , Pollack Ian F.
Published: August 2011

Object

Sagittal craniosynostosis is the most common form of craniosynostosis and is commonly treated within the first year of life. Optimal treatment of patients older than 1 year of age is not well characterized. The authors reviewed cases of sagittal craniosynostosis involving patients who were treated surgically at their institution when they were older than 1 year in order to determine the rate of intracranial hypertension (ICH), potential to develop nonhealing cranial defects, and the need for various surgical procedures to treat the more mature phenotype.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all cases in the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Neurosurgery Database involving patients who underwent cranial vault remodeling for scaphocephaly after 1 year of age between October 2000 and December 2010.

Results

Ten patients were identified who met the inclusion criteria. Five patients underwent anterior two-thirds cranial vault remodeling procedures, 3 patients underwent posterior vault remodeling, and 2 patients underwent 2-staged total vault remodeling. All patients had improved head shapes, and mean cephalic indices improved from 65.4 to 69.1 (p = 0.05). Six patients exhibited signs of ICH. No patients with more than 3 months of follow-up exhibited palpable calvarial defects.

Conclusions

Patients with sagittal synostosis treated after 1 year of age demonstrate increased rates of ICH, warranting diligent evaluations and surveillance to detect it; rarely develop clinically significant cranial defects if appropriate bone grafting is performed at the time of surgery; and achieve acceptable improvements in head shape.
Complications following decompression of Chiari malformation Type I in children: dural graft or sealant?
Authors: Parker Stephen R. , Harris Peggy , Cummings Thomas J. , George Timothy , Fuchs Herbert , Grant Gerald
Published: August 2011

Object

Posterior fossa decompression with duraplasty for Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) is a common pediatric neurosurgery procedure. Published series report a complication rate ranging from 3% to 40% for this procedure. Historically, many dural substitutes have been used, including bovine grafts, human cadaveric pericardium, synthetic dura, and autologous pericranium. The authors hypothesized that a recently observed increase in complications was dependent on the graft used.

Methods

Between January 2004 and January 2008, 114 consecutive patients ≤ 18 years old underwent primary CM-I decompression using duraplasty. Records were retrospectively reviewed for short- and intermediate-term complications and operative technique, focusing on the choice of duraplasty graft with or without application of a tissue sealant.

Results

The average age of the patients was 8.6 years. The dural graft used was variable: 15 were treated with cadaveric pericardium, 12 with Durepair, and 87 with EnDura. Tisseel was used in 75 patients, DuraSeal in 12, and no tissue sealant was used in 27 patients. The overall complication rate was 21.1%. The most common complications included aseptic meningitis, symptomatic pseudomeningocele, or a CSF leak requiring reoperation. The overall complication rates were as follows: cadaveric pericardium 26.7%, Durepair 41.7%, and EnDura 17.2%; reoperation rates were 13%, 25%, and 8.1%, respectively. Prior to adopting a different graft product, the overall complication rate was 18.1%; following the change the rate increased to 35%. Complication rates for tissue sealants were 14.8% for no sealant, 18.7% for Tisseel, and 50% for DuraSeal. Nine patients were treated with the combination of Durepair and DuraSeal and this subgroup had a 56% complication rate.

Conclusions

Complication rates after CM-I decompression may be dependent on the dural graft with or without the addition of tissue sealant. The complication rate at the authors' institution approximately doubled following the adoption of a different graft product. Tissue sealants used in combination with a dural substitute to augment a duraplasty may increase the risk of aseptic meningitis and/or CSF leak. The mechanism of the apparent increased inflammation with this combination remains under investigation.
An unusual infection, an unusual outcome—Fonsecaea pedrosoi cerebral granuloma
Authors: Madhugiri Venkatesh S. , Bhagavatula Indira Devi , Mahadevan Anita , Siddaiah Nagarathna
Published: August 2011

Phaeohyphomycosis is caused by pigmented fungi that are not normally pathogenic. Fonsecaea is a rare cause of cerebral infections, most of which are caused by F. monophora. Brain infections caused by F. pedrosoi are very rare, and there are only a few case reports describing this. Most infections take the form of abscesses (epidural or intracerebral). The authors report a rare case of a contained fungal granuloma caused by F. pedrosoi. The patient presented with epilepsy, which was treated as a case of extratemporal lesion–related epilepsy. The diagnosis was made after resection. The authors describe the clinical course of this patient.
Increased incidence of nonaccidental head trauma in infants associated with the economic recession
Authors: Huang Mary I. , O'Riordan Mary Ann , Fitzenrider Ellen , McDavid Lolita , Cohen Alan R. , Robinson Shenandoah
Published: August 2011

Object

Nonaccidental head trauma (NAHT) is a major cause of death in infants. During the current economic recession, the authors noticed an anecdotal increase in infants with NAHT without an increase in the overall number of infants admitted with traumatic injuries. An analysis was performed to determine whether there was an association between economic recession and NAHT.

Methods

With Institutional Review Board approval, the trauma database was searched for NAHT in infants 0–2 years old during nonrecession (December 2001 to November 2007) and recession (December 2007 to June 2010) periods. Incidence is reported as infants with NAHT per month summarized over time periods. Continuous variables were compared using Mann-Whitney U-tests, and proportions were compared using the Fisher exact test.

Results

Six hundred thirty-nine infant traumas were observed during the study time period. From the nonrecession to the recession period, there was an 8.2% reduction in all traumas (458 in 72 months [6.4 /month] vs 181 in 31 months [5.8/month]) and a 3.5% reduction in accidental head traumas (142 in 72 months [2.0/month] vs 59 in 31 months [1.9/month]). Nonaccidental head trauma accounted for 14.6% of all traumas (93/639). The median patient age was 4.0 months and 52% were boys. There were no significant differences in the representative counties of referral or demographics between nonrecession and recession populations (all p > 0.05). The monthly incidence rates of NAHT doubled from nonrecession to recession periods (50 in 72 months [0.7/month] vs 43 in 31 months [1.4/month]; p = 0.01). During this recession, at least 1 NAHT was reported in 68% of the months compared with 44% of the months during the nonrecession period (p = 0.03). The severity of NAHTs also increased, with a greater proportion of deaths (11.6% vs 4%, respectively; p = 0.16) and severe brain injury (Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤ 8: 19.5% vs 4%, respectively; p = 0.06) during the recession.

Conclusions

In the context of an overall reduction in head trauma, the significant increase in the incidence of NAHT appears coincident with economic recession. Although the cause is likely multifactorial, a full analysis of the basis of this increase is beyond the scope of this study. This study highlights the need to protect vulnerable infants during challenging economic times.
Epigenetic mechanisms regulating neural development and pediatric brain tumor formation
Authors: Faria Claudia M. C. , Rutka James T. , Smith Christian , Kongkham Paul
Published: August 2011

Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children, and among them, embryonal tumors represent the largest group with an associated poor prognosis and long-term morbidity for survivors. The field of cancer epigenetics has emerged recently as an important area of investigation and causation of a variety of neoplasms, and is defined as alterations in gene expression without changes in DNA sequence. The best studied epigenetic modifications are DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA-based mechanisms. These modifications play an important role in normal development and differentiation but their dysregulation can lead to altered gene function and cancer. In this review the authors describe the mechanisms of normal epigenetic regulation, how they interplay in neuroembryogenesis, and how these can cause brain tumors in children when dysregulated. The potential use of epigenetic markers to design more effective treatment strategies for children with malignant brain tumors is also discussed.
Need for standard outcome reporting systems in craniosynostosis
Authors: Szpalski Caroline , Weichman Katie , Sagebin Fabio , Warren Stephen M.
Published: August 2011

Craniosynostosis is the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures. When a cranial suture fuses prematurely, skull growth is altered and the head takes on a characteristic pathological shape determined by the suture(s) that fuses. Numerous treatment options have been proposed, but until recently there were no parameters or guidelines of care. Establishing such parameters was an important step forward in the treatment of patients with craniosynostosis, but results are still assessed using radiographic measurements, complication rates, and ad hoc reporting scales. Therefore, clinical outcome reporting in the treatment of craniosynostosis is inconsistent and lacks methodological rigor.

Today, most reported evidence in the treatment of craniosynostosis is level 5 (expert opinion) or level 4 (case series) data. Challenges in obtaining higher quality level 1 or level 2 data include randomizing patients in a clinical trial as well as selecting the appropriate outcome measure for the trial. Therefore, determining core outcome sets that are important to both patients and health care professionals is an essential step in the evolution of caring for patients with craniosynostosis.

Traditional clinical outcomes will remain important, but patient-reported outcomes, such as satisfaction, body image, functional results, and aesthetic outcomes, must also be incorporated if the selected outcomes are to be valuable to patients and families making decisions about treatment. In this article, the authors review the most commonly used tools to assess craniosynostosis outcomes and propose a list of longitudinal parameters of care that should be considered in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment evaluation of a patient with craniosynostosis.
Streptococcus Bovis Peritonitis Complicating Peritoneal Dialysis—A Review of 10 Years’ Experience
Authors: Yap Desmond Y.H. , To Kelvin K.W. , Yip Terence P.S. , Lui Sing Leung , Chan Tak Mao , Lai Kar Neng , Lo Wai Kei
Published: August 2011

Objective

An association of Streptococcus bovis bacteremia with carcinoma of colon has been reported, but data regarding peritoneal dialysis (PD) peritonitis caused by S. bovis is scarce. In this study, we examined the clinical characteristics, associations, and outcomes of this disease entity.

Methods

The case records of patients with S. bovis PD peritonitis presenting to 2 renal centers between January 2000 and September 2010 were reviewed. Clinical features and outcomes were identified and analyzed.

Results

Of cultures from 23 episodes of S. bovis peritonitis in 20 patients (1.28% of all peritonitis episodes at our center), 19 (82.6%) showed S. bovis alone, and 4 (17.4%) showed mixed growth. In 7 episodes, the S. bovis was moderately resistant to penicillin G. Rates of resistance to clindamycin and erythromycin were 43.5% and 47.8% respectively. In 18 episodes (78.3%), a primary response was achieved with a first-generation cephalosporin and an aminoglycoside. In 4 episodes, a secondary response was achieved after a switch from cephalosporin to vancomycin, and in 1 episode with mixed growth, the Tenckhoff catheter had to be removed. Repeat peritonitis occurred in 3 patients at a mean of 50.0 months (range: 24.2 – 83.1 months). Of the 20 patients of S. bovis peritonitis, 10 (50%) underwent either a barium enema or a colonoscopy. One patient had history of colonic carcinoma 2 years before the peritonitis, and a subsequent work-up revealed no recurrence. Three patients had diverticulosis, and one had a concomitant sigmoid polyp. Findings in the other 6 patients were normal. No colorectal malignancy had developed in the remaining 10 patients after a mean follow-up of 76.6 months (range: 0.8 – 125.1 months).

Conclusions

Outcomes in S. bovis PD peritonitis were favorable, and an association with colorectal cancer was not found in our patients. Routine colonoscopy in these patients remains controversial and should be individualized.
Serum Interleukin 9 Levels Are Increased in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: Association with Lower Frequency and Severity of Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: YANABA KOICHI , YOSHIZAKI AYUMI , ASANO YOSHIHIDE , KADONO TAKAFUMI , SATO SHINICHI
Published: August 2011

Objective.

To determine serum interleukin 9 (IL-9) levels and their clinical associations in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods.

Serum IL-9 levels were examined by ELISA in 71 patients with SSc, 15 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 15 with dermatomyositis (DM), 39 with atopic dermatitis, and 28 healthy individuals.

Results.

Serum IL-9 levels were significantly elevated in SSc patients (84.6 ± 76.0 pg/ml) compared with healthy individuals (40.4 ± 41.7 pg/ml; p < 0.001), and patients with SLE (50.7 ± 52.0 pg/ml; p < 0.05) or DM (50.6 ± 55.8 pg/ml; p < 0.05) or atopic dermatitis (41.8 ± 38.8 pg/ml; p < 0.001). Among SSc patients, there were no differences in serum IL-9 levels between those with limited cutaneous SSc and those with diffuse cutaneous SSc. Patients with SSc and raised IL-9 levels less often had pulmonary fibrosis and decreased percentage vital capacity than those with normal IL-9 levels. IL-9 levels were positively correlated with percentage vital capacity in patients with SSc.

Conclusion.

Serum IL-9 level was increased in patients with SSc, and was associated with lower frequency and severity of pulmonary fibrosis in SSc. IL-9 could be a protective factor against the development of pulmonary fibrosis in this disease, and as such would be a possible therapeutic target.
Overview of the Patient Perspective at OMERACT 10 — Conceptualizing Methods for Developing Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: KIRWAN JOHN R. , TUGWELL PETER S.
Published: August 2011

This overview draws out the main conclusions from the 4 workshops focused on incorporating the patient perspective into outcome assessment at the 10th Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT 10) conference. They raised methodological issues about the choice of outcome domains to include in clinical trials, the development or choice of instruments to measure these domains, and the way these instruments might capture the impact of a disease and its treatment. The need to develop a more rigorous conceptual model of quantifying the way conditions affect health, and the need to ensure patients are directly involved in the decisions about domains and instruments, emerged clearly. The OMERACT participants voted to develop guidelines for domain and instrument selection, and conceptual and experimental work will be brought forward to revise and upgrade the OMERACT Filter.
Nonpharmacologic Interventions Need Outcomes for Evaluating Complex Interventions in Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: GUILLEMIN FRANCIS , IVERSEN MAURA D. , RAT ANNE-CHRISTINE , OSBORNE RICHARD , PETERSSON INGEMAR F.
Published: August 2011

Introduction.

Nonpharmacologic interventions are themselves complex and are often combined with drugs and other interventions in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. Therefore, overall strategies for treatment are complex interventions. These should be evaluated regarding their processes and outcomes.

Methods.

The CARE network, an international organization of health professionals (physicians and nonphysicians) and patients conducted a survey in 2008 to identify core outcomes in the ICF perspective, completed with a second survey (2009–2010) with patients in routine practice. These surveys have provided new information about domains to investigate as a basis for evaluating complex interventions.

Results.

Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials (OMERACT) participants in this Special Interest Group agreed that current outcomes used in pharmacological research are not sufficient if the nonpharmacologic independent or combined contributions are to be assessed; other domains need to be addressed. This is an area of interest for further development.

Conclusion.

Recommendations are proposed to develop research in the area of outcome for evaluation of complex interventions in rheumatic diseases.
Dredged marine sand as a new source for construction materials
Authors: Limeira J. , Agulló L. , Etxeberria M.
Published: August 2011

This work deals with the use of dredged marine sand (DMS) in pastes and mortars as construction material. Different materials from two Spanish ports were used: DMS-0 from Sant Carles de la Ràpita and DMS-A, DMS-B and DMS-C from Barcelona. The aim of the study was to assess DMS as addition (its influence on cohesion and fluidity) or as a fine granular corrector (its influence on compressive strength) in different mixes of cement paste and mortars, respectively. Two experimental stages were carried out: firstly, DMS-0 material was used on the production of pastes and mortars (partial substitution of raw sand 0/2 mm); secondly, DMS-A, DMS-B and DMS-C were used on mortar production (partial substitution of raw sand 0/5 mm). The fresh and hardened properties obtained were compared to those of the control mixes; the results revealed 25 % as an optimum substitution ratio of raw sands for DMS.
FLEXIBLE WIRELESS MODULE FOR ELECTROCARDIOGRAM MONITORING
Authors: CHOU WEN-YANG , TSAI MING-JONG
Published: August 2011

The rigidity of printed circuit boards (PCB) constrains the assembly and utility of most existing electrocardiogram (ECG) circuits. Moreover, the literature seldom discusses electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in the context of ECGs. This paper presents a wireless ECG module built on a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) and EMC measurement. A flexible wireless module for ECG signals monitoring was designed with high input impedance, a high common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR), low-power consumption, and appropriate amplification and filtration, which automatically cancels offset voltage. The device detects some bioparameters such as heart rate variability (HRV). In addition, EMC test results show the device does not affect normal ECG operation. In the proposed approach, the module accommodates the acquisition of other biomedical signals if the module's gain and pass-band are modified.
Religion, civil society and conflict: What is it that religion does for and to society?
Authors: Beyers Jaco
Published: August 2011

Human consciousness instinctively tries to make sense of reality. Different human interpretations of reality lead to a world consisting of multiple realities. Conflict occurs when differing realities (worldviews) encounter one another. Worldviews are socially created and determine human behaviour and, as such, most often find expression in religion. The discussion of conflict and the role of religion in civil society take place within the discourse of the sociology of religion. Religion is socially determined. Peter Berger’s insight into the sociology of religion therefore plays an important role in establishing the relationship between religion and civil society as one that takes on different forms. Thus, a clear definition of both civil society and religion was needed to understand the nature of these relationships. The role of religion in civil society with regard to the presence of conflict in society was further investigated in this article. The conditions under which conflict in society occurs were discussed, as were the conditions for tolerance in society, for religion ultimately becomes the provider of moral discernment when conflict occurs in civil society.
The Forgotten Guide Wire: A Rare Complication of Hemodialysis Catheter Insertion
Authors: Abuhasna Said , Abdallah Dirar , ur Rahman Masood
Published: August 2011

A rare complication of a hemodialysis catheter insertion is the loss of the complete guide wire into the circulation. A complete guide wire in the circulation may not necessarily produce symptoms, and it may remain unnoticed for a significant period of time. We present a rare case where a complete guide wire was lost into the circulation during insertion of a hemodialysis catheter into the right femoral vein in a 19-year-old female with systemic lupus erythromatosis. The patient remained asymptomatic through two plasmapheresis treatments over a period of 2 days. The guide wire was eventually retrieved without complications. The factors leading to the wire being forgotten will be reviewed, and the measures initiated to prevent any future occurrence will be addressed.
Magnetic Resonance Enterography Findings in Crohn′s disease in the Pediatric Population and Correlation with Fluoroscopic and Multidetector Computed Tomographic Techniques
Authors: Patel Parul , Ormanoski Margaret , Hoadley Kim M.
Published: August 2011

Traditionally, fluoroscopic examinations such as enteroclysis, upper GI studies, and small bowel follow through exams have been the procedures of choice in evaluating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in pediatric populations. With the advent of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), it has subsequently become a complementary examination in imaging inflammatory bowel disease. A major advantage of MDCT over fluoroscopic examination is its ability to directly visualize bowel mucosa, as well as demonstrate extra-enteric complications of IBD such as abscesses, fistulae, and sinus tracts. The major disadvantage of CT however is exposure to ionizing radiation, especially in IBD patients of the pediatric age group who maybe repeatedly imaged due to exacerbations. As a result, magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) is becoming increasingly important in the evaluation and follow-up of pediatric patients with IBD. This pictorial essay will summarize the multi-modality imaging findings of IBD with emphasis on MRE including the imaging protocol and procedure. For the purposes of this article, patients less than 17 years of age have been considered to represent the pediatric population.
The Pharmacotherapy of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Elderly: An Update
Authors: Majid Hashir , Sharafkhaneh Amir
Published: August 2011

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disorder of the airways characterized by inflammation and airflow limitation. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally and its prevalence is on the rise. COPD is predominantly a disease of the older age group. As the average life-span increases world-wide, and the burden of COPD increases, correct recognition and optimal management of this disease has become essential in the elderly. In the proceeding article, changes in the respiratory system associated with normal aging, as well as with COPD are reviewed. Important implications of aging in COPD management are also discussed.
Physical and Social Play of Preschool Children with and without Coordination Difficulties: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Kennedy-Behr Ann , Rodger Sylvia , Mickan Sharon
Published: August 2011

Introduction:

This preliminary study investigated the play skills and frequency of engagement in play of young children with and without motor coordination difficulties.

Method:

Using a quasi-experimental design with two independent groups, the play of 21 children aged 4–6 years with (n = 11) and without coordination difficulties (n = 10) was assessed using the Revised Knox Preschool Play Scale and the Play Observation Scale, based on 30 minutes of videotape of play at preschool. Motor skills were assessed using the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire — German and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children — Second Edition.

Results:

Significant differences were found in developmental play skills between the two groups, specifically in the children's overall play age and in gross and fine motor play, with lower play ages found for children with coordination difficulties. Frequency of engagement and social interaction in play was significantly different: children with coordination difficulties spent more time as onlookers, or in transition, than their typically developing peers. They were more frequently involved in an aggressive incident and had higher frequency of negative affect than the control children during play.

Conclusion:

Children with coordination difficulties engaged in less mature gross and fine motor play than the control group. Difficulties in social interaction seem to be evident at a younger age than has previously been described. Early identification of these difficulties may provide directions for intervention; however, this needs to be more fully explored with a larger sample.
A ciência da informação no Brasil e sua frente de pesquisa: estudo cienciométrico sob a ótica da institucionalização da pesquisa científica (1995-2005)
Authors: Silveira Murilo Artur de Araújo , Bazzi Rogério Eduardo Rodrigues
Published: August 2011

Identificação dos os principais personagens científicos ligados à Ciência da Informação brasileira, através do periódico Ciência da Informação. Tem como objetivo investigar a institucionalização social da Ciência da Informação com base nas citações realizadas nos artigos científicos do periódico Ciência da Informação, no período de 1995 a 2005. Utiliza o método cienciométrico, através da análise de citações e representações cartográficas. Os resultados são apresentados segundo os grupos de trabalho da ANCIB. Tece considerações sobre os resultados e sugere modificações nas indicações das citações.
A arquitetura da informação centrada no usuário: estudo do website da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS)
Authors: Silva Patricia Maria da , Dias Guilherme Ataíde
Published: August 2011

Neste artigo analisa-se, do ponto de vista da arquitetura da informação, baseada no usuário, o website da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde – BVS, site de responsabilidade da BIREME. Para tanto se usa como referencial a Ciência da Informação, que colabora com seus estudos de usuários e suas necessidades de informação, para sugerir mudanças e conseqüentemente, a melhoria da qualidade do produto final, do projeto de arquitetura da informação do website da BVS.
Uso do padrão MARC em bibliotecas universitárias da região Sul do Brasil
Authors: Diekaniak Gisele Vasconcelos , Medeiros Jackson da Silva , Silveira João Paulo Borges da , Fortes Maria Firmina , Borges Virginia Oliveira
Published: August 2011

Analisa a utilização do padrão MARC (MAchine Readable Cataloging record) pelas bibliotecas universitárias que compreendem a Região Sul do Brasil, bem como se propôs a identificar o uso da interoperabilidade entre elas. Para tanto, baseou-se na hipótese de que, apesar das bibliotecas, ao escolherem um padrão de metadados para descreverem seus acervos, optarem, em sua maioria, pelo padrão MARC, tais bibliotecas não têm por principal objetivo a interoperabilidade. A pesquisa considera este recurso de grande importância porque através dele é possível manter a padronização de bases de dados, realizar a catalogação cooperativa, reduzir esforços e evitar o re-trabalho. Aborda vantagens no uso de protocolos de comunicação aliados a padrões de metadados. Quanto aos resultados, a pesquisa demonstrou que o Estado pesquisado que mais utiliza o padrão MARC é o Paraná (PR), onde 68% das bibliotecas entrevistadas afirmam utilizá-lo; o Rio Grande do Sul (RS) é o Estado que menos utiliza o padrão, sendo usado por 60% das bibliotecas respondentes. Quanto ao princípio da interoperabilidade pode-se perceber que o PR utiliza este recurso em cerca de 85% das bibliotecas respondentes, seguido de Santa Catarina, que interopera através do MARC em 66% das bibliotecas respondentes. Considerando que a maioria das bibliotecas consultadas são informatizadas (usuárias de softwares gerenciadores de bibliotecas) e estes softwares possibilitarem (70% deles) a realização da catalogação via padrão MARC, as bibliotecas universitárias da Região Sul do Brasil ainda realizam a interoperabilidade de maneira tímida; Como sugestão para amenizar esta baixa utilização e baixo aproveitamento de recursos do MARC a pesquisa concluiu que o desenvolvimento de cooperativas entre bibliotecas seria uma das saídas para dividir despesas e lucros com o desenvolvimento de softwares que possibilitem a interoperabilidade e a padronização via uso do MARC.
Avaliação arquivística: bases teóricas, estratégias de aplicação e instrumentação
Authors: Makhlouf Basma , Cavalcante Lídia Eugenia
Published: August 2011

A coerência dos vários componentes da função avaliação arquivística implica o respeito a três exigências: 1) evidência da teoria e dos conceitos constitutivos e capacidadeespecifica, o que representa o valor dos originais; 2) a capacidade da estratégia de avaliação integrar os conceitos que se relacionam ao valor dos originais como definidopela teoria; 3) a capacidade do processo institucional de sua aplicação conformar-se à estratégia e respeitar suas bases teóricas. Dessa forma, apresenta-se, primeiramente, umesboço do conceito "função" no contexto da avaliação arquivística. A seguir, discorre-se sobre bases teóricas, estratégias e métodos relacionados, técnicas e critérios de aplicação e, finalmente, a instrumentação de realização, de acordo com cinco autores-chave da avaliação arquivista: H. Booms (1970, 1972, 2002), H. Samuels (1986), T. Cook (1992, 1994, 1997, 1999), T. Eastwood (1992, 2002) e C. Couture (1998, 1999, 2002).
Presença da literatura hispanófona em revistas eletrônicas brasileiras de Biblioteconomia e Ciência da Informação
Authors: Nascimento Maria Jesus , Boso Augiza Karla
Published: August 2011

Objetivando traçar um diagnóstico do atual grau de cooperação científica na área de Arquivística, Biblioteconomia, Documentação e Ciência da Informação no Mercosul, analisam-se oito revistas eletrônicas brasileiras, para constatar a presença de artigos e citações em idioma espanhol no período de 2005 a 2006. Mostra a importância da integração cultural e informacional latino-americana. Enfatiza o uso do espanhol como instrumento de coesão e segunda língua de alcance mundial. Conclui que há poucos artigos em idioma espanhol publicados em revistas brasileiras e embora haja muitos autores citando a literatura hispânica, não existe nenhum trabalho em colaboração entre os pesquisadores da América Latina.
A importância da cultura na adoção tecnológica, o caso do Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)
Authors: Silva Patrícia Maria , Dias Guilherme Ataíde , Sena Junior Manoel Raimundo
Published: August 2011

O Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), ou seja, o modelo de aceitação de tecnologia é um dos modelos comportamentais mais usados no campo dos sistemas de informação no mundo. Ele foi projetado para compreender a relação causal entre variáveis externas de aceitação dos usuários e o uso real do sistema, buscando entender o comportamento deste usuário através do conhecimento da utilidade e da facilidade de utilização percebida por ele. Embora o TAM tenha sido desenvolvido na América do Norte e seja bem sucedido, são necessários alguns ajustes, quando aplicado fora da cultura norte-americana, pois as variáveis de aceitação e comportamentais não podem ser as mesmas em todas as culturas. O objetivo deste artigo é fazer uma breve revisão de literatura sobre o TAM e sua conveniência em outras culturas.
Perspectivas de letramento informacional no Brasil: práticas educativas de bibliotecários em escolas de ensino básico
Authors: Campello Bernadete Santos
Published: August 2011

A presente pesquisa tem como objetivo compreender a prática educativa de bibliotecários brasileiros que atuam em escolas de ensino básico, buscando esclarecer: se esta prática está restrita à promoção da leitura, se os bibliotecários já desenvolvem atividades de ensino de habilidades informacionais e em que medida estão contribuindo para o processo de letramento informacional dos alunos. Utilizou-se metodologia interpretativa e os dados foram coletados por meio de relatos de experiências, entrevistas e grupo de discussão. Compuseram a amostra 28 bibliotecários que atuavam em escolas de ensino básico (14 de escolas públicas e 14 de escolas particulares). Os resultados revelaram que a sensibilização e a conquista dos estudantes constituem o principal foco da prática educativa dos bibliotecários, evidenciando a predominância de ações voltadas para atrair os alunos para a biblioteca e para a leitura. A quantidade de atividades de orientação à pesquisa é bem mais modesta. Considerando-se que o letramento informacional se caracteriza pela ênfase na aprendizagem pela pesquisa orientada, pode-se concluir que, nesse sentido, a ação dos bibliotecários é incipiente.
Spatial variation of chemical composition and sources of submicron aerosol in Zurich during wintertime using mobile aerosol mass spectrometer data
Authors: Mohr C. , Richter R. , DeCarlo P. F. , Prévôt A. S. H. , Baltensperger U.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Mobile measurements of PM1 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <1 μm) chemical composition using a quadrupole aerosol mass spectrometer and a multi-angle absorption photometer were performed using the PSI mobile laboratory during winter 2007/2008 and December 2008 in the metropolitan area of Zurich, Switzerland. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) applied to the organic fraction of PM1 yielded 3 factors: Hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA) related to traffic emissions; organic aerosol from wood burning for domestic heating purposes (WBOA); and oxygenated organic aerosol (OOA), assigned to secondary organic aerosol formed by oxidation of volatile precursors. The chemical composition of PM1 was assessed for an urban background site and various sites throughout the city. The background site is dominated by secondary inorganic and organic species (57 %), BC, HOA, and WBOA account for 15 %, 6 %, and 12 %, respectively. As for the other sites, HOA is important along major roads (varying between 7 and 14 % of PM1 for different sites within the city, average all sites 8 %), domestic wood burning makes up between 8–15 % of PM1 for different sites within the city (average all sites 10.5 %). OOA makes up the largest fraction of organic aerosol (44 % on average). A new method allows for the separation and quantification of the local fraction of PM1 emitted or rapidly formed in the city, and the fraction of PM1 originating from the urban background. The method is based on simultaneous on-road mobile and stationary background measurements and the correction of small-scale meteorological effects using the ratio of on-road sulfate to stationary sulfate. Especially during thermal inversions over the Swiss plateau, urban background concentrations contribute substantially to particulate number concentrations (between 40 and 80 % depending on meteorological conditions and emissions, 60 % on average) as well as to the mass concentrations of PM1 components measured on road in downtown Zurich (between 30 and 90 %, on average 60 % for black carbon and HOA, and between 90 and 100 % for WBOA, OOA, and the measured inorganic components). The results emphasize, on a scientific level, the advantage of mobile measurements for distinguishing local from regional air pollution research, and on a political level, the importance of regional collaboration for mitigating air pollution issues.
Cloud macroscopic organization: order emerging from randomness
Authors: Yuan T.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Clouds play a central role in many aspects of the climate system and their forms and shapes are remarkably diverse. Appropriate representation of clouds in climate models is a major challenge because cloud processes span at least eight orders of magnitude in spatial scales. Here we show that there exists order in cloud size distribution of low-level clouds, and that it follows a power-law distribution with exponent γ close to 2. γ is insensitive to yearly variations in environmental conditions, but has regional variations and land-ocean contrasts. More importantly, we demonstrate this self-organizing behavior of clouds emerges naturally from a complex network model with simple, physical organizing principles: random clumping and merging. We also demonstrate symmetry between clear and cloudy skies in terms of macroscopic organization because of similar fundamental underlying organizing principles. The order in the apparently complex cloud-clear field thus has its root in random local interactions. Studying cloud organization with complex network models is an attractive new approach that has wide applications in climate science. We also propose a concept of cloud statistic mechanics approach. This approach is fully complementary to deterministic models, and the two approaches provide a powerful framework to meet the challenge of representing clouds in our climate models when working in tandem.