bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision of the transpulmonary thermodilution measurements
Authors: Monnet Xavier , Persichini Romain , Ktari Mariem , Jozwiak Mathieu , Richard Christian , Teboul Jean-Louis
Published: August 2011

Introduction

We wanted to determine the number of cold bolus injections that are necessary for achieving an acceptable level of precision for measuring cardiac index (CI), indexed global end-diastolic volume (GEDVi) and indexed extravascular lung water (EVLWi) by transpulmonary thermodilution.

Methods

We included 91 hemodynamically stable patients (age 59 (25% to 75% interquartile range: 39 to 79) years, simplified acute physiologic score (SAPS)II 59 (53 to 65), 56% under norepinephrine) who were monitored by a PiCCO2 device. We performed five successive cold saline (15 mL, 6°C) injections and recorded the measurements of CI, GEDVi and EVLWi.

Results

Considering five boluses, the coefficient of variation (CV, calculated as standard deviation divided by the mean of the five measurements) was 7 (5 to 11)%, 7 (5 to 12)% and 7 (6 to 12)% for CI, GEDVi and EVLWi, respectively. If the results of two bolus injections were averaged, the precision (2 × CV/√ number of boluses) was 10 (7 to 15)%, 10 (7 to 17)% and 8 (7 to 14)% for CI, GEDVi and EVLWi, respectively. If the results of three bolus injections were averaged, the precision dropped below 10%, that is, the cut-off that is generally considered as acceptable (8 (6 to 12)%, 8 (6 to 14)% and 8 (7 to 14)% for CI, GEDVi and EVLWi, respectively). If two injections were performed, the least significant change, that is, the minimal change in value that could be trusted to be significant, was 14 (10 to 21)%, 14 (10 to 24)% and 14 (11 to 23)% for CI, GEDVi and EVLWi, respectively. If three injections were performed, the least significant change was 12 (8 to 17)%, 12 (8 to 19)% and 12 (9 to 19)% for CI, GEDVi and EVLWi, respectively, that is, below the 15% cut-off that is usually considered as clinically relevant.

Conclusions

These results support the injection of at least three cold boluses for obtaining an acceptable precision when transpulmonary thermodilution is used for measuring CI, GEDVi and EVLWi.
Maternal KIR and fetal HLA-C: a fine balance
Authors: Chazara Olympe , Xiong Shiqiu , Moffett Ashley
Published: August 2011

NK cell effector function is regulated by a range of activating and inhibitory receptors, and many of their known ligands are MHC class I molecules. Human NK receptors encoded by the Killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) gene family recognize polymorphic HLA-C as well as some HLA-A and HLA-B molecules. KIRs are expressed by uterine NK (uNK) cells, which are distinctive NK cells directly in contact with the invading fetal placental cells that transform the uterine arteries during the first trimester. Trophoblast cells express both maternal and paternal HLA-C allotypes and can therefore potentially interact with KIRs expressed by uNK. Therefore, allorecognition of paternal HLA-C by maternal KIR might influence trophoblast invasion and vascular remodeling, with subsequent effects on placental development and the outcome of pregnancy. We discuss here the studies relating to KIR/HLA-C interactions with an emphasis on how these function during pregnancy to regulate placentation.
Aquaporin 9 phosphorylation mediates membrane localization and neutrophil polarization
Authors: Karlsson Thommie , Glogauer Michael , Ellen Richard P , Loitto Vesa-Matti , Magnusson Karl-Eric , Magalhães Marco A O
Published: August 2011

Neutrophils are of prime importance in the host innate defense against invading microorganisms by using two primary mechanisms—locomotion toward and phagocytosis of the prey. Recent research points to pivotal roles for water channels known as AQPs in cell motility. Here, we focused on the role of AQP9 in chemoattractant-induced polarization and migration of primary mouse neutrophils and neutrophil-like HL60 cells. We found that AQP9 is phosphorylated downstream of fMLFR or PMA stimulation in primary human neutrophils. The dynamics of AQP9 were assessed using GFP-tagged AQP9 constructs and other fluorescent markers through various live-cell imaging techniques. Expression of WT or the phosphomimic S11D AQP9 changed cell volume regulation as a response to hyperosmotic changes and enhanced neutrophil polarization and chemotaxis. WT AQP9 and S11D AQP9 displayed a very dynamic distribution at the cell membrane, whereas the phosphorylation-deficient S11A AQP9 failed to localize to the plasma membrane. Furthermore, we found that Rac1 regulated the translocation of AQP9 to the plasma membrane. Our results show that AQP9 plays an active role in neutrophil volume regulation and migration. The display of AQP9 at the plasma membrane depends on AQP9 phosphorylation, which appeared to be regulated through a Rac1-dependent pathway.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering from Photoreduced Ag Nanoaggregates on an Optically Trapped Single Bacterium
Authors: Kitahama Yasutaka , Itoh Tamitake , Ishido Tomomi , Hirano Ken , Ishikawa Mitsuru
Published: August 2011

A single bacterium in an aqueous Ag nitrate solution was optically trapped by focusing a near-infrared laser beam, and then Ag nanoaggregates were formed on the bacterium by focusing a green laser beam at the bacterium. We obtained surface-enhanced Raman scattering signals from a focal area on a single bacterium.
DFT Analysis of Catalytic Urethanation
Authors: Hatanaka Masashi
Published: August 2011

Reaction profiles for catalytic urethanation are analyzed by DFT calculations. A well-known basic catalyst 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) activates alcohol molecules and accelerates the direct addition toward isocyanates. Self-catalysis by alcohols is also characterized as an accelerated direct addition.
CT-guided biopsy of thoracic lesions with a novel wire-based needle guide device – initial experiences
Authors: Kröpil Patric , Bilk Philip , Quentin Michael , Miese Falk R , Lanzman Rotem S , Scherer Axel
Published: August 2011

Background

Biopsies guided by computed tomography (CT) play an important role in clinical practice. A short duration, minimal radiation dose and complication rate are of particular interest.

Purpose

To evaluate the potential of a novel self-manufactured wire-based needle guide device for CT-guided thoracic biopsies with respect to radiation dose, intervention time and complication rate.

Material and Methods

Forty patients that underwent CT-guided biopsies of thoracic lesions were included in this study and assigned to two groups. Patients in group A ( n = 20, mean age 69 ± 8.4 years) underwent biopsies with a novel wire-based needle guide device, while patients in group B ( n = 20, mean age 68.4 ± 10.1 years) were biopsied without a needle guide device. The novel self-manufactured needle guide device consists of an iron/zinc wire modelled to a ring with a flexible arm and an eye at the end of the arm to stabilize the biopsy needle in the optimal position during intervention. Predefined parameters (radiation dose, number of acquired CT-slices, duration of intervention, complications) were compared between both groups.

Results

Mean radiation dose (CTDIvol 192 mGy versus 541 mGy; P ≤ 0.001) and the number of acquired slices during intervention ( n = 49 ± 33 vs. n = 126 ± 78; P ≤ 0.001) were significantly lower in group A compared with group B. Intervention time in group A (13.1 min) was significantly lower than in group B (18.5 min, P < 0.01). A pneumothorax as peri-interventional complication was observed less frequent after device assisted biopsies ( n = 4 vs. n = 8, n.s.).

Conclusion

The novel wire-based needle guide device is a promising tool to facilitate CT-guided thoracic biopsies reducing radiation dose, intervention time, and related complications. Further studies are mandatory to confirm these initial results.
Step-and-shoot prospectively ECG-gated vs. retrospectively ECG-gated with tube current modulation coronary CT angiography using 128-slice MDCT patients with chest pain: diagnostic performance and radiation dose
Authors: Kim Jeong Su , Choo Ki Seok , Jeong Dong Wook , Chun Kook Jin , Park Yong Hyun , Song Sung Gook , Park Ju Hyun , Kim June Hong , Kim Jun , Han Dongcheul , Lim Soo Jin
Published: August 2011

Background

With increasing awareness for radiation exposure, the study of diagnostic accuracy of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) with low radiation dose techniques is mandatory to both radiologist and clinician.

Purpose

To compare diagnostic performance and effective radiation dose between step-and-shoot prospectively ECG-gated and retrospectively ECG-gated with tube current modulation (TCM) CCTA using 128-slice multidetector computed tomography (MDCT).

Material and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 60 patients who underwent CCTA with either of two different low-dose techniques using 128-slice MDCT (23 patients for step-and shoot-prospectively ECG-gated and 37 patients for retrospectively ECG-gated with TCM CCTA) followed by conventional coronary angiography. All coronary arteries and all segments thereof, except anatomical variants or small size (< 1.5 mm) ones, were included in analysis.

Results

In per-segment analysis, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 91/96%, 95/94%, 75/73%, and 98/99% for step-and-shoot prospectively ECG-gated and retrospectively ECG gated with TCM CCTA, respectively, relative to conventional coronary angiography. Effective radiation dose were 1.75 ± 0.83 mSv, 4.91 ± 1.71 mSv in the step-and-shoot prospectively ECG-gated and retrospectively ECG-gated with TCM CCTA groups, respectively.

Conclusion

The two low-radiation dose CCTA techniques using 128-slice MDCT yields comparable diagnostic performance for coronary artery disease in symptomatic patients with low heart rates.
Observer variation for radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging of occult hip fractures
Authors: Collin David , Dunker Dennis , Göthlin Jan H , Geijer Mats
Published: August 2011

Background

Conventional radiography is insufficient for diagnosis in a small but not unimportant number of hip fractures, and secondary imaging with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is warranted. There are no convincing observer variation studies performed for conventional radiography or CT in occult fractures, and no large materials for MRI.

Purpose

To assess observer variation in radiography, CT and MRI of suspected occult, non-displaced hip fractures, and to evaluate to what extent observer experience or patient age may influence observer performance.

Material and Methods

A total of 375 patients after hip trauma where radiography was followed by CT or MRI to evaluate a suspected occult hip fracture were collected retrospectively from two imaging centers. After scoring by three observers with varying degrees of radiologic experience, observer variation was assessed by using linear weighted kappa statistics.

Results

For radiography, agreements between the three observers were moderate to substantial for intracapsular fractures, with kappa values in the ranges of 0.56–0.66. Kappa values were substantial for extracapsular fractures, in the ranges of 0.69–0.72. With increasing professional experience, fewer fractures were classified as equivocal at radiography. For CT and MRI, observer agreements were similar and almost perfect, with kappa values in the ranges of 0.85–0.97 and 0.93–0.97.

Conclusion

There were almost perfect observer agreements for CT and MRI in diagnosing non-displaced, occult hip fractures. Observer agreements for radiography were moderate to substantial, and observer experience influenced agreement only at radiography.
The clinical significance and management of incidental focal FDG uptake in the thyroid gland on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in patients with non-thyroidal malignancy
Authors: Wong Christine , Lin Michael , Chicco Andrew , Benson Rhonda
Published: August 2011

Background

Incidental focal fluorine-18-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) uptake in the thyroid is not uncommon. A significant proportion is due to intercurrent thyroid cancer on further evaluation.

Purpose

To investigate and discuss the clinical significance and management of incidental focal FDG uptake in the thyroid gland on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in patients with non-thyroidal malignancy.

Material and Methods

We investigated 188/7896 (2.4%) patients who had incidental focal thyroid uptake on FDG PET/CT in an oncology population over a 45-month period. Diagnosis was confirmed in 63 patients of whom 59 patients had histopathological verification.

Results

Thirty-two percent of confirmed cases were malignant comprising intercurrent thyroid cancer in three-quarters of these patients. Maximum standardized uptake values of the thyroid lesions and SUV ratios compared with background thyroid and mediastinal uptake were not predictive of a benign or malignant etiology. In patients with incidental thyroid cancers, more than half had non-papillary and intermediate to high-risk pathology.

Conclusion

Focal FDG uptake in the thyroid gland on PET/CT showed a malignancy risk of 32%. The intensity of uptake does not predict histology and underpins the importance of further investigations to exclude intercurrent thyroid cancer in suitable patients.
Low-radiation-dose dual-phase MDCT protocol with split contrast media dose and time optimization: protocol design for renal donors evaluation
Authors: Bazeed Mohamed Fayez , Fooshang Fawzy F , Ahmed Magdy Aly
Published: August 2011

Background

A routine, multiphase, computed tomography (CT) protocol is associated with high radiation exposure to potential kidney donors. To reduce radiation exposure, several authors have suggested a reduction in the number of phases.

Purpose

To evaluate a low-radiation-dose, dual-phase protocol (i.e. a protocol with an unenhanced phase and combined vascular and excretory phase) for the preoperative evaluation of potential renal donors.

Material and Methods

Sixty-five potential renal donors were divided into two groups. The first group was scanned with a routine quadric-phase protocol (non-contrast, arterial, venous, and delayed), and the second group was scanned with a triple-phase protocol (dual phase protocol + venous phase). In the second group, we replaced CT angiography with a routine abdominal CT technique. In addition to the evaluation of renal arteries, veins, and excretory systems, the radiation dose of the suggested protocol was compared to that of the routine quadric-phase protocol.

Results

The suggested protocol was efficient in the evaluation of renal arteries, veins, and excretory systems in all studied potential renal donors. Renal arteries were well visualized in the combined vascular excretory phase using the routine abdominal CT technique; no significant difference was noted when these results were compared to those obtained from the CT angiography used in the quadric-phase protocol. The mean effective radiation dose of our suggested dual-phase protocol was only 34% of the dose resulting from the routine quadric-phase protocol.

Conclusion

Use of a low-radiation, dual-phase, CT protocol, which relied on both an unenhanced phase and a combined vascular and excretory phase, significantly reduced radiation dose. Furthermore, the proposed protocol provides adequate visualization of renal arteries and veins, and affords sufficient opacification of the urinary tract using improved acquisition triggering.
Prevalence of syn nucleobases in the active sites of functional RNAs
Authors: Sokoloski Joshua E. , Godfrey Stephanie A. , Dombrowski Sarah E. , Bevilacqua Philip C.
Published: August 2011

Biological RNAs, like their DNA counterparts, contain helical stretches, which have standard Watson-Crick base pairs in the anti conformation. Most functional RNAs also adopt geometries with far greater complexity such as bulges, loops, and multihelical junctions. Occasionally, nucleobases in these regions populate the syn conformation wherein the base resides close to or over the ribose sugar, which leads to a more compact state. The importance of the syn conformation to RNA function is largely unknown. In this study, we analyze 51 RNAs with tertiary structure, including aptamers, riboswitches, ribozymes, and ribosomal RNAs, for number, location, and properties of syn nucleobases. These RNAs represent the set of nonoverlapping, moderate- to high-resolution structures available at present. We find that syn nucleobases are much more common among purines than pyrimidines, and that they favor C2′-endo-like conformations especially among those nucleobases in the intermediate syn conformation. Strikingly, most syn nucleobases participate in tertiary stacking and base-pairing interactions: Inspection of RNA structures revealed that the majority of the syn nucleobases are in regions assigned to function, with many syn nucleobases interacting directly with a ligand or ribozyme active site. These observations suggest that judicious placement of conformationally restricted nucleotides biased into the syn conformation could enhance RNA folding and catalysis. Such changes could also be useful for locking RNAs into functionally competent folds for use in X-ray crystallography and NMR.
A Proposal for Redesign of the FedEx Cup Playoff Series on the PGA TOUR
Authors: Hall Nicholas G. , Potts Chris N.
Published: August 2011

We propose a new design for the FedEx Cup playoff series on the PGA TOUR, and especially for its final event, the TOUR Championship. Playing the TOUR Championship as a strongly seeded match-play event, as in our proposal, provides a good chance of an exciting climax to the professional golf season. We validate our proposed design by estimating the probability that a player who has a particular rank entering the TOUR Championship finishes in various positions in the FedEx Cup standings. The choice of match play in our design is motivated by the belief held by various stakeholders in professional golf that match play is closer to the spirit of a playoff event than stroke play. Moreover, our strongly seeded match-play design provides several advantages, including the following: all players have a reasonable opportunity to win at the TOUR Championship; all players are rewarded for consistently strong performance during the season; and the participation of marquee name players is guaranteed during network television coverage late in the event. We discuss how the proposed design achieves the various objectives outlined by PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem about possible redesign of the FedEx Cup playoff series.
Are leg length and hip offset comparable after hip resurfacing and cementless total hip arthroplasty?
Authors: Patel S , Thakrar RR , Bhamra J , Hossain F , Tengrootenhuysen M , Haddad FS
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to determine if hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) and cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA) were comparable in correcting leg length and hip offset in patients with primary osteoarthritis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed of 80 patients who underwent either HRA or cementless THA for primary osteoarthritis (40 in each group) between 2006 and 2008. Standardised anteroposterior radiographs taken pre-operatively and at one year following surgery were used to calculate the total offset and leg length in both hips.

RESULTS

At one year following surgery, no leg length discrepancy was identified in either group. A difference of 0.39cm (p=0.046) remained between the mean total offset of the operated hip and the contralateral non-operated hip in the HRA group. No difference in offset was observed between the two hips after surgery in the THA group (p=0.875).

CONCLUSIONS

Leg length is restored by HRA and THA. A difference remains in offset after HRA although we attribute this to intentional medialisation of the acetabular cup.
Percutaneous management of ununited femoral fracture
Authors: Ya’ish F , Nanu AM , Cross AT
Published: August 2011

We describe a percutaneous technique used for the management of non-union in a complex diaphyseal femoral fracture treated initially with intramedullary nailing. Seven months after the initial fixation, a proximal fracture gap failed to progress to union. A percutaneous procedure involving fracture gap freshening and supplementation with bone morphogenetic protein and demineralised bone matrix resulted in a satisfactory progression to union. The percutaneous procedure allowed less soft tissue insult around the fracture site, a short hospital stay, a fast return to the preoperative level of mobility and fracture union.
Individual and organisational capacity for evidence use in policy making in Nigeria: an exploratory study of the perceptions of Nigeria health policy makers
Authors: Uneke C.J. , Ezeoha A.E. , Ndukwe C.D. , Oyibo P.G. , Onwe F. , Igbinedion E.B. , Chukwu P.N.
Published: August 2011

This paper presents and discusses the outcome of an exploratory quantitative cross-sectional study of the perceptions of Nigeria health policy makers on capacity for evidence use in policy making at individual and organisational levels. The capacity for acquisition, assessment, adaptation and application of research evidence in policy making at individual and organisational levels was generally suboptimal. This capacity constraint was the major challenge to health policy and systems research (HPSR) evidence use in policy making. To address this challenge, the following strategies were identified: increased awareness of the value of HPSR, execution of training programmes to improve the skills of policy makers in evidence-based policy making, and enhancing organisational capacity for incentives in evidence use.
Investigating and critically appraising the expression and potential role of androgen receptor in breast carcinoma
Authors: Peter Mark B. , Shaaban Abeer M. , Rajan Sree Sundara , Maraqa Loaie , Horgan Kieran , Speirs Valerie
Published: August 2011

The potential role of the androgen receptor (AR) as a predictive or prognostic factor in breast cancer remains unclear. We aimed to determine the prognostic significance of AR in a cohort of breast carcinomas with long-term follow-up and to critically appraise this in the context of existing literature. Four hundred and eight cases of invasive breast cancer were incorporated into tissue microarrays (TMAs). All received tamoxifen and comprised 108 cases which relapsed and 300 cases which did not. Mean follow-up time for the former was 84 months (range 1–142, SD 38.8) and for the latter was 77 months (range 11–229, SD 49.7). TMAs were immunohistochemically stained with AR and scored as a continuous variable and using the Allred score. AR expression was significantly associated with grade, recurrence on tamoxifen, non-breast cancer death estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR). AR correlated significantly with better overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) using an Allred cut-off of 4 (log rank=0.0053 and 0.0044, respectively), and 20% positive tumor cells (log rank=0.0027 and 0.0059, respectively). AR expression was additionally associated with a reduced risk of recurrence following endocrine therapy. In summary, AR positive breast tumors have better OS and DFS and are less likely to recur following endocrine treatment.
Der Begriff des Leibes: Die Natur, die wir selbst sind
Authors: Böhme Gernot
Published: August 2011

This article scrutinizes the concepts of the body from Descartes through to Hermann Schmitz. The definition the author himself gives is an existential one in the sense of Kierkegaard: To be a body is the task of performing corporeal existence as a commitment.
Legales und illegales Töten von und in Unternehmen
Authors: Puteanus-Birkenbach Katja
Published: August 2011

Das Töten im Wirtschaftsleben kann nur metaphorisch betrachtet werden und ist sowohl in actio als auch reactio eher ein Unsichtbares. Es befindet sich in einem Dunkelfeld innerhalb legitimer und illegitimer unternehmerischer Entscheidungen. Jemanden liquidieren (= töten) ist illegal, etwas liquidieren (= auflösen) legal. Die in einem Unternehmen handelnden Personen befinden sich originär in einem Spannungsverhältnis einer parallel existierenden, aber häufig divergierenden betriebswirtschaftlichen, rechtlichen und sozialen Norm. Je nach Normbezug verursacht “Töten” in wirtschaftlichen Handlungsfeldern emotionale Höhepunkte (Lustgewinn) oder Tiefpunkte (Depression, bis hin zum Selbstmord).
Japan: Killing Motivation
Authors: Ackermann Peter
Published: August 2011

This paper places the concept of killing into a discussion of what living means. Focusing on Japan, a culture certainly not rooted in occidental traditions and values, living essentially implies the flow of energy linking parts to a whole, and individuals to a others. For this process to take place smoothly the balance of movements of giving and receiving is indispensable. However, present-day debates in Japan show great concern about the fact that large segments of society are no longer motivated to produce the activity that can conceptually be equated with life and living. In the first half of this paper I discuss mechanisms that urge persons to move, and in the second half reflect on mechanisms that are blocking, stifling, “killing” the motivation to move.
Transcutaneous Bilirubin in Exclusively Breastfed Healthy Term Newborns Up to 12 Days of Life
Authors: Draque Cecilia Maria , Sañudo Adriana , de Araujo Peres Clovis , de Almeida Maria Fernanda Branco
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the curve of transcutaneous bilirubin in breastfed term neonates up to 12 days of life.

METHODS:

In a prospective cohort study, we performed a 12-day evaluation of 223 healthy, exclusively breastfed, appropriate-for-gestational-age neonates who roomed-in for at least 48 hours. Each newborn had forehead transcutaneous bilirubin and body weight measured at the end of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, and 12 days. Regression analysis was used with bilirubin as a third-degree polynomial function of time. The 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 95th percentile curves were constructed by using the residual mean square for each day.

RESULTS:

Patients were 46% white, 34% mixed race, and 20% black, the mean birth weight was 3260 g (range: 2560–4090 g), the mean gestational age was 39.4 weeks (range: 37.0–41.9 weeks), 51% were male, 74% were born by vaginal delivery, and 66% had been breastfed since delivery. The mean highest weight loss was 4.7% (range: 1%–12%) at the second or third day, and in most infants the weight returned to the birth weight at the fifth day. With 2007 total bilirubin measurements, bilirubin concentrations reached the 50th percentile level (5.6 mg/dL) at the third and fourth days and returned to the 24-hour level (4.8 mg/dL) at the sixth day. The 95th percentile bilirubin level was 8.2 mg/dL at 24 hours of life, reached 12.2 mg/dL on the fourth day, and declined to 8.5 mg/dL on the 12th day.

CONCLUSIONS:

The transcutaneous bilirubin curve represents the natural history of bilirubinemia in exclusively breastfed healthy term newborns in the first 12 days of life.
Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism in clinical practice: an indolent condition or a silent threat?
Authors: Marques Thyciara Fontenele , Vasconcelos Renata , Diniz Erik , Rêgo Daniela , Griz Luiz , Bandeira Francisco
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics of normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (NPHPT) in patients seen for osteoporosis evaluation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We examined the records of 156 women who came to the hospital to be screened for osteoporosis. Measurements of total calcium, PTH, 25-hydroxy vitamin D, and β-C-telopeptide were recorded. Bone mineral density and T-scores were evaluated by densitometry of the lumbar spine, femoral neck and distal one-third of the radius. The latter was only measured in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Nephrolithiasis and bone fractures were documented by a review of the medical records. RESULTS: We identified 14 patients with NPHPT, accounting for 8.9% of the population studied. In the medical records, the occurrence of kidney stones was reported in 28.6% of the patients with NPHPT, in contrast with only 0.7% of the noncarriers. Regarding the presence of general fractures, 21.4% of the patients with NPHPT were affected versus 16.2% of noncarriers. CONCLUSION: Data from our study suggest that NPHPT has a diverse phenotypic presentation, implying that this may not be an "indolent" disease.
Validação de instrumento de coleta de dados de enfermagem para clientes adultos hospitalizados
Authors: Virgínio Nereide de Andrade , Nóbrega Maria Miriam Lima da
Published: August 2011

Estudo realizado com o objetivo de validar o instrumento de coleta de dados utilizado em serviço de internação para adultos, verificando se os itens permitem coletar dados que possibilitem o desenvolvimento das fases da SAE, melhorar a operacionalização e construir roteiro instrucional. O campo de pesquisa foi a Clínica Médica do Hospital Universitário Lauro Wanderley, aonde a coleta de dados vem sendo realizada desde 1984. Utilizou-se para validação a técnica de entrevista com grupo focal. A amostra foi formada por treze enfermeiras e as atividades foram realizadas de setembro a dezembro de 2002. O debate permitiu reestruturação do instrumento, de acordo com consenso obtido, adaptando-o de forma mais objetiva para uso na clínica, de acordo com características da clientela.
La Federación Panamericana de Profesionales de Enfermería: visión y proyecciones para el siglo XXI
Authors: Vale Eucléa Gomes , Silva Maria Josefina da
Published: August 2011

El presente ensayo discurre sobre la visión prospectiva de la Federación Panamericana de Enfermería en el escenario de la salud y educación para el nuevo siglo. Discute los conceptos de asociacionismo, liderazgo, y los caminos que la profesión siguió como organización profesional. Realiza un breve histórico de la construcción de la enfermería como profesión y de su organización como corporación. En la segunda parte sitúa a la FEPEN en este contexto de la enfermería como corporación, expone sus propósitos y las luchas específicas en las cuales tuvo un papel relevante. Finalmente discute el papel de las asociaciones para la construcción de una sociedad más sana y justa.
Anatomia: a ordem do corpo
Authors: Kruse Maria Henriqueta Luce
Published: August 2011

Neste ensaio procuro mostrar a proveniência dos saberes que determinam uma certa visão que a equipe de saúde, sobretudo a enfermagem, desenvolveu sobre o corpo, especialmente o corpo doente. Entendo que esses saberes determinam maneiras de cuidar dos corpos hospitalizados. Apoiada por textos de Foucault analiso a disciplina de Anatomia. Apresento uma breve trajetória de sua construção como campo de saber, desde Vesalius até os dias de hoje, quando encontramos corpos plastinados e digitalizados. Destaco o cadáver como o primeiro contato da estudante com um corpo humano e observo que as ilustrações de livros de Anatomia privilegiam corpos masculinos e brancos. Distingo o corpo como uma invenção radicalmente histórica e observo que somos culturalmente treinados para percebê-lo, de maneira organizada, de determinados ângulos e usando certas lentes.
Produção de mudas do tipo rebentão, utilizando coroas de três cultivares de abacaxi inoculadas com fungos micorrízicos
Authors: Santos Paulo Cesar dos , Jesus Freitas Silvio de , Freitas Marta Simone Mendonça , Sousa Liliane Barroso de , Carvalho Almy Junior Cordeiro de
Published: August 2011

Um dos principais gargalos para o desenvolvimento da abacaxicultura no Brasil tem sido a ausência tanto de mudas em quantidade quanto em qualidade, para propagação. Entre as alternativas, verifica-se a obtenção de mudas a partir da brotação de gemas de coroas dos frutos, que são, normalmente, descartadas pelo consumidor. Além disso, a utilização de fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMAs) pode ser uma alternativa para melhorar a produção das mudas, visto que estes fungos podem abreviar o tempo de formação de mudas de diversas frutíferas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a produção de mudas do tipo rebentão, através do método de destruição do meristema apical da coroa de cultivares do abacaxizeiro inoculadas com FMAs. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados, num fatorial 3x3, com três cultivares de abacaxi ('Smooth Cayenne', 'Pérola' e 'Jupi') e três tratamentos microbiológicos (Sem inoculação, inoculação com Glomus etunicatum e inoculação com uma mistura dos fungos Glomus clarum e Gigaspora margarita), com quatro repetições. As primeiras emissões foram registradas aos 30; 60 e 90 dias após o plantio para as cultivares 'Smooth Cayenne', 'Pérola' e 'Jupi', respectivamente. O abacaxizeiro 'Smooth Cayenne' produziu 80 e 69% de mudas a mais do que as cultivares 'Pérola' e 'Jupi', respectivamente. Coroas de abacaxi inoculadas com a mistura de fungos micorrízicos apresentaram maior número de emissão de brotações quando comparadas com aquelas inoculadas apenas com G. etunicatum. Nas avaliações nutricionais das coroas, a inoculação com a mistura de dois fungos micorrizicos promoveu, em folhas da coroa do abacaxizeiro, incrementos de 85 e 66% nos teores de P; de 22 e 13% para os de N, e de 6 e 19% para os de K, em relação aos tratamentos G. etunicatum e sem inoculação, respectivamente. Conclui-se que a produção de rebentos oriundos de coroas cuja gema principal foi decapitada é uma alternativa para a produção de mudas de abacaxizeiro, sendo mais eficiente na cultivar 'Smooth Cayenne', que produziu 26 mudas em coroas cultivadas até 420 dias após o plantio.
Validação de método analítico para análise de amitraz em mel utilizando GC/TSD
Authors: Silva F.S. , Marchi M.R.R.
Published: August 2011

Este artigo descreve a validação de método analítico para determinação do acaricida amitraz em mel utilizando extração com n-hexano/acetona, cleanup em cartucho de extração em fase sólida (SPE) e análise por cromatografia a gás com detector termoiônico seletivo (GC-TSD). O método pode ser utilizado para monitorar a presença do pesticida amitraz em mel, devido aos bons parâmetros analíticos, precisão (CV<11%) e exatidão (>80%) dentro do intervalo 100-400 ng g-1. O limite estabelecido na União Européia, pelo Committee for Veterinary Medicinal Products, para amitraz em mel (200 ng g-1) está dentro deste intervalo. A resposta do sistema analítico apresentou linearidade entre 100 e 800 ng mL-1 com coeficiente de correlação de 0,9996, limite de detecção (LD-7 ng g-1) e de quantificação (LQ-100 ng g-1). O método validado foi utilizado para avaliar a qualidade de méis comercializados na cidade de Araraquara/SP, nas quais não foram detectados resíduos de amitraz.
Otimização e validação de uma metodologia analítica para determinação de 1-hidroxipireno em urina de cortadores de cana-de-açúcar
Authors: Sakiara K. A. , Andrade S. J. De , Marchi M. R. R. , Vilegas W. , Bosso R. M. V. , Conforti-Froes N. D. T.
Published: August 2011

Este trabalho teve como objetivo otimizar e validar uma metodologia analítica para determinação de 1-hidróxipireno em urina de trabalhadores envolvidos na colheita da cana-de-açúcar. O método utilizado para determinação de 1-hidroxipireno em urina humana utilizado consiste na hidrólise enzimática, extração e clean-up por extração em fase sólida (SPE) e quantificação por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência com detector de fluorescência (CLAE/Flu). Quatro tipos de cartuchos foram testados para verificação da porcentagem de recuperação. Urina de cortadores de cana-de-açúcar (não-fumantes e de ambos os sexos) foram coletadas no período da safra (n=39) e entressafra (n=34) da cana-de-açúcar. Os melhores resultados de recuperação foram atribuídos aos cartuchos C18. Os mesmos apresentaram recuperação entre 79% e 108%, com coeficiente de variação entre 5% e 10%. O limite de quantificação do método foi de 74 ng de 1-hidroxipireno por litro de urina. A metodologia otimizada e validada foi utilizada para determinação de amostras reais. Os resultados encontrados na urina dos trabalhadores no período da safra variaram de 0,026 a 2,3 μmol de 1-hidroxipireno por mol de creatinina. No período da entressafra os resultados variaram de 0,0023 a 0,38 μmol de 1-hidroxipireno por mol de creatinina. A metodologia validada mostrou-se adequada para determinação de 1-hidroxipireno em urina humana. Os dados obtidos permitem concluir que há forte correlação entre excreção de 1-hidroxipireno e os períodos de safra e entressafra da cana de açúcar.
Quimiometria como ferramenta analitica para definição das condiçoes de ensaio da enzima peroxidase de soja
Authors: Santos M.C , Tognolli J.O , Oliveira O.M.M.F
Published: August 2011

Enzimas Peroxidases são heme-proteínas encontradas nos diferentes organismos vivos, especialmente vegetais, apresentam importante papel fisiológico/bioquímico como proteção contra microorganismos invasores. A soja, um dos mais importantes produtos para o agronegócio brasileiro apresenta na casca de suas sementes (subproduto) alta atividade de peroxidase, denominada soybean peroxidase,com potencial de utilização em métodos analíticos clínicos. A proposta do trabalho foi aplicar o planejamento fatorial para otimização das condições extração da enzima, definição das condições ótimas de atividade (pH e temperatura), utilizando metodologia de superfície de resposta. Os dados obtidos com clara definição foram: i) extração em pó cetonico, ii) meio reacional: pH 3,3, volume da amostra contendo a enzima 330 µL - 340 µL, peróxido de hidrogênio 4,2 mmol.L-1 150 µL, tempo de reação 20 segundos, temperatura 50º C, substrato guaiacol 30mmol.L-1 300 µL, e 0,1 mol.L-1 de NaCl. O uso da dessa metodologia para definição das condições de extração e estudos cinético-enzimáticos da peroxidase de soja foram eficientes e mais precisos, comparado a metodologia de variações/repetições (tentativa e erro).
Prosopografia
Authors: Stone Lawrence
Published: August 2011

O artigo faz uma apresentação geral da metodologia de pesquisa prosopográfica. Em primeiro lugar, faz-se uma revisão histórica dos primeiros esforços prosopográficos propriamente ditos, distinguindo as escolas elitista, de caráter mais individualizante, e a sociológica, de caráter mais coletivo. Na seqüência, os precursores do método são apresentados, seguidos de alguns dos mais importantes trabalhos iniciais: as pesquisas historiográficas de Charles Beard e de Lewis Namier e a sociológica de Robert Merton. Em seguida, o autor comenta alguns dos principais problemas encontrados no uso acrítico da prosopografia: a ausência de dados adequados; erros nas classificações dos dados; erros nas interpretações dos dados; problemas na interpretação teórica dos dados. A identificação desses problemas não visa a negar a importância da prosopografia, mas a esclarecer quais os perigos que um uso descuidado dela podem acarretar; dessa forma, em seguida se apresentam alguns dos mais importantes resultados contemporâneos obtidos com a prosopografia, tomando como referência as pesquisas inglesas. Por fim, o autor comenta o quadro geral dos estudos prosopográficos contemporâneos, indicando sua situação nos Estados Unidos e na França, bem como as possibilidades e os perigos que a introdução do computador na prosopografia trazem para a prática historiográfica.
Pollination of Byrsonima coccolobifolia: short-distance isolation and possible causes for low fruit production
Authors: Amorim ME. , De Marco P
Published: August 2011

Byrsonima coccolobifolia is a tropical plant from the Malpighiaceae family, distributed in the neotropical savanna fields and pollinated by bees known as "collecting-oil bees". In this study, conducted in a Cerrado area located on a farm in the city of Silvânia, GO, the following hypothesis was tested: the greater the isolation degree of a plant, the lower its fruit production due to access difficulties for pollinators. Using a linear regression analysis, it was possible to relate the fruiting rate with the degree of isolation of each B. coccolobifolia individual and consequently it was found that the isolation had no influence on the pollination rate, an unexpected event that can be explained by the distance amongst individuals not being large enough to limit the movement of pollinators, or because cross-pollination was not the predominant form of reproduction, since the rate of cross-pollination was similar to self-pollination. It was also found that the proportion of fruits produced was lower than expected, a factor which may also have influenced the results.
Malnutrition and experimental epilepsy
Authors: Gomes Tâmara Kelly de Castro , Oliveira Suzana Lima de , Castro Raul Manhães de
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION: Disturbances in intrauterine environment can have harmful effects on the fetus and pathological consequences persisting throughout adolescence and adulthood. Protein restriction during the prenatal period has a significant impact on growth and development of the central nervous system. Food restriction increases the risk of neurological disorders such as epilepsy. OBJECTIVE: To relate the programming model by malnutrition and its implications in experimental epilepsy. Material and methods: There has been research papers published in the databases Medline, PubMed, CAPES journals, ScienceDirect and Scielo. The keywords selected for the study included epilepsy, Status Epilepticus, pilocarpine, malnutrition, programming. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Several studies in animal models or humans highlights the possible adverse effects of malnutrition at the onset of epileptic seizures. The vulnerability immunological, biochemical and electrolyte abnormalities and hypoglycemia may be the factors responsible for the intensification of the epileptogenic process in malnourished individuals. CONCLUSION: Malnutrition negatively changes the epileptogenic circuitry.
Relatório do IX Encontro Nacional de Associações e Grupos de Pacientes com Epilepsia
Authors: Fernandes Paula T. , Kanashiro Ana Lúcia A. Noronha , Gimenez Pablo , Ling Li Hui , Coan Ana Carolina , Li Li M.
Published: August 2011

A Epi-Brasil realiza várias atividades para fortalecer o movimento nacional de epilepsia. Uma delas é o Encontro Nacional de Associações e Grupos de Pacientes com Epilepsia, mostrado neste artigo. O evento foi realizado nos dias 18 e 19 de março de 2011 na cidade de Ipatinga, MG, contando com a participação de mais de 250 pessoas e 10 entidades. Como acontece todos os anos, o evento teve dois momentos principais: 1. Palestrantes debateram temas atuais sobre a epilepsia e 2. As associações puderam expor suas atividades, conquistas e dificuldades, reforçando a reflexão e a troca de experiências. Além disso, a Assembléia Geral da Epi-Brasil teve as seguintes resoluções: 1) tema escolhido para o próximo ano: "Queremos Políticas Públicas para a Epilepsia". 2) O X Encontro Nacional das Associações e Grupos de Pacientes em Epilepsia: realizado nos dias 16 e 17 de março de 2012, em Goiânia, sob a organização da ASPEG. 3) Fortalecer sempre o trabalho e a participação das associações na Federação, através inclusive da melhor troca de informações entre as mesmas. 4) Continuar com a cadeira no Conselho Nacional de Saúde e no Fórum Nacional de Patologias Crônicas. 5) Permanecer na luta para aprovar, com o Ministério da Saúde, a Minuta que institui um programa de epilepsia na atenção básica. Com isso, o evento foi encerrado na certeza de que estamos no caminho certo.
Gape size influences seasonal patterns of piscivore diets in three Neotropical rivers
Authors: Montaña Carmen G. , Layman Craig A. , Winemiller Kirk O.
Published: August 2011

We examined diets of four piscivores, two in the order Perciformes (Cichla temensis and C. orinocensis) and two in the order Characiformes (Boulengerella cuvieri and B. lucius), from the Cinaruco, La Guardia, and Ventuari rivers in Venezuela throughout the wet-dry seasonal cycle. The four piscivores consumed a phylogenetically and morphologically diverse group of fishes, reflecting the overall diversity of fish species in these rivers. At the start of the falling-water period, Cichla consumed large prey, especially the abundant, migratory, fish of the genus Semaprochilodus. As these relatively large prey became depleted during the dry season, Cichla tended to consume smaller prey. For Boulengerella, gape limitation precluded consumption of larger, seasonally abundant, fishes, and so prey sizes were more consistent throughout the seasonal cycle. Our findings show how prey abundance and gape limitations interact to influence seasonal patterns of predator-prey interactions.
Características epidemiológicas de pacientes com sarcoidose na cidade do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Lemos-Silva Vinicius , Araújo Paula Barroso , Lopes Christiane , Rufino Rogério , Costa Cláudia Henrique da
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar as características epidemiológicas de pacientes com sarcoidose na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, caso-controle, envolvendo 100 pacientes com sarcoidose acompanhados no Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto, localizado na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, entre 2008 e 2010. O diagnóstico de sarcoidose foi baseado em critérios clínicos, radiográficos, laboratoriais e histopatológicos. RESULTADOS: A doença predominou em mulheres (65%), na faixa de 35-40 anos (variação: 7-69 anos), embora houvesse um segundo pico na população de aproximadamente 55 anos. A dispneia foi o sintoma mais comum (47%), assim como o achado radiográfico de comprometimento pulmonar e linfonodal (estágio II; 43%), seguido por estágio III (20%), estágio 1(19%), estágio 0 (15%) e estágio IV (3%). Nenhum paciente apresentou derrame pleural ou baqueteamento digital no diagnóstico. O PPD foi não reator em 94 pacientes. Os achados espirométricos no diagnóstico foram normais em 61 pacientes; indicativos de distúrbio ventilatório obstrutivo, em 21; e indicativos de distúrbio ventilatório restritivo, em 18. Os sítios de biópsia mais comuns foram os pulmões (principalmente por broncoscopia) e a pele, que confirmaram o diagnóstico em 56% e 29% dos casos, respectivamente. O tratamento com prednisona foi iniciado em 75% dos pacientes e mantido por mais de 2 anos em 19,7%. CONCLUSÕES: Este estudo corrobora vários achados relatados em outros estudos sobre as características epidemiológicas de pacientes com sarcoidose.
"Se pudesse ressurgir, viria como o vento". Narrativas da dor: corporalidade e emoções na experiência da travestilidade
Authors: Figueiredo Adrianna
Published: August 2011

O artigo se propõe a avaliar, através da pesquisa empírica feita com um grupo de sete travestis, dos 23 aos 40 anos, residentes na cidade de Recife (PE), como são realizadas e reinventadas as táticas de modificações corporais vividas como elementos centrais de identificação emocional na experiência da travestilidade. Por meio das narrativas da dor, procura-se perceber como são agenciadas duas linguagens nas redes afetivas das travestis, formuladas de acordo com uma dupla qualificação da dor. Segundo o que chamamos de linguagem de satisfação, nota-se que a dor, os riscos e o perigo imbricados nos procedimentos metamórficos de autoconstrução corporais, quando postos em contraponto com a satisfação de seus resultados, são significados como insuficientes diante do desejo de transformação. Em contraste, a linguagem política, em que se utiliza um expediente comum, baseado nas compartilhadas histórias de abjeções sociais, faz uso do conteúdo simbólico de negatividade e desfavor da dor quando se trata de significar emocionalmente seus relacionamentos com a sociedade mais ampla.