bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stabbing Headache in an 8-Year-Old Girl: Primary or Drug Induced Headache?
Authors: Biedroń Agnieszka , Kaciński Marek , Skowronek-Bała Barbara
Published: March 2014

The occurrence of stabbing headaches in children requires a thorough diagnostic approach that excludes secondary headaches. The organic background should be taken into consideration when alarming symptoms occur, such as a purely 1-sided location, a change in the character of the headache, or possibly a link to physical activity. The current study describes the case of an 8-year-old girl who suffered short-lasting stabbing headache attacks. The headaches with increasing intensity and frequency started 1 month before her hospitalization and were usually preceded by physical activity (dancing, running). The pain, which was located in the right supraorbital region, lasted 1 second and occurred several times during the day. No associated symptoms were observed. In addition, the girl suffered from allergic rhinitis and was on antiallergic treatment (levocetirizine, fluticasone nasal spray). On admission she was in good general condition, and a pediatric and neurologic examination revealed no abnormalities. Her brain MRI was normal. The initial diagnosis was that the patient was suffering from primary stabbing headaches. However, during a follow-up visit 4 months later, a relationship was observed between the cessation of the headache attacks and the discontinuation of an antihistaminic drug. Six months later, the girl remained headache free. In cases involving differential diagnoses of stabbing headaches, it is important to consider the adverse reactions of the drugs used.
Meta-analysis of Parental Protection of Children From Tobacco Smoke Exposure
Authors: Rosen Laura J. , Myers Vicki , Hovell Melbourne , Zucker David , Ben Noach Michal
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Worldwide, roughly 40% of children are exposed to the damaging and sometimes deadly effects of tobacco smoke. Interventions aimed at reducing child tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) have shown mixed results. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify effects of interventions aimed at decreasing child TSE.

METHODS:

Data sources included Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycNet, and Embase. Controlled trials that included parents of young children were selected. Two reviewers extracted TSE data, as assessed by parentally-reported exposure or protection (PREP) and biomarkers. Risk ratios and differences were calculated by using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. Exploratory subgroup analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

Thirty studies were included. Improvements were observed from baseline to follow-up for parentally-reported and biomarker data in most intervention and control groups. Interventions demonstrated evidence of small benefit to intervention participants at follow-up (PREP: 17 studies, n = 6820, relative risk 1.12, confidence interval [CI] 1.07 to 1.18], P < .0001). Seven percent more children were protected in intervention groups relative to control groups. Intervention parents smoked fewer cigarettes around children at follow-up than did control parents (P = .03). Biomarkers (13 studies, n = 2601) at follow-up suggested lower child exposure among intervention participants (RD −0.05, CI −0.13 to 0.03, P = .20).

CONCLUSIONS:

Interventions to prevent child TSE are moderately beneficial at the individual level. Widespread child TSE suggests potential for significant population impact. More research is needed to improve intervention effectiveness and child TSE measurement.
Multi-functionalization of nanoporous catalytic materials to enhance reaction yield: Statistical mechanical modeling for conversion reactions with restricted diffusive transport
Authors: Wang Jing , Garcia Andrés , Ackerman David M. , Gordon Mark S. , Slowing Igor I. , Kobayashi Takeshi , Pruski Marek , Evans James W.
Published: March 2014

Multi-functionalization of catalytically-active nanomaterials provides a valuable tool for enhancing reaction yield by shifting reaction equilibrium, and potentially also by adjusting reaction-diffusion kinetics. For example, multi-functionalization of mesoporous silica to make the interior pore surface hydrophobic can enhance yield in dehydration reactions. Detailed molecular-level modeling to describe the pore environment, as well as the reaction and diffusion kinetics is challenging, although we briefly discuss current strategies. Our focus, however, is on coarse-grained stochastic modeling of the overall catalytic process for highly restricted transport within narrow pores (with single-file diffusion), while accounting for a tunable interaction of the pore interior with reaction products. We show that making the pore interior unfavorable to products can significantly enhance yield due to both thermodynamic and kinetics factors.
Real-Time X-Ray Scattering Studies of Surface Structure During Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition of GaN
Authors: Stephenson G. Brian , Eastman Jeffrey A. , Auciello Orlando , Munkholm Anneli , Thompson Carol , Fuoss Paul H. , Fini Paul , DenBaars Steven P. , Speck James S.
Published: March 2014

Vapor-phase processes such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and reactive ion etching are the primary methods for the production-scale synthesis and processing of many high-quality thin-film materials. For example, these processes are widely used in the microelectronics industry for synthesis and lithography of the various semiconducting, insulating, and conducting layers in devices. Understanding the means of controlling the microstructure and composition of these materials is of great technological interest. However a difficulty often encountered in developing vapor-phase processes is an undesirable dependence on trial-and-error methods for optimizing the many process parameters. These parameters include gas composition, flow rate, pressure, and substrate temperature, all of which are typically changing with time. This reliance on empirical methods can be attributed to the tremendous chemical and physical complexity of vapor-phase processes and the lack of appropriate in situ measurement techniques for the vapor-phase environment.

We have initiated a program to apply synchrotron x-ray analysis techniques as real-time probes of film and surface structure during vapor-phase processing. X-rays have a combination of properties which makes them particularly well-suited for these studies. Unlike electrons, x-rays have a sufficiently low absorption to penetrate vapor-phase processing environments and chamber walls. Unlike visible light, x-rays have wavelengths and energies suitable for study of atomic-scale structure and chemistry. A growing number of in situ synchrotron x-ray investigations of film growth and processing demonstrate the power of these techniques.
A Prospective Noninterventional Study to Evaluate Survival and Success of Reduced Diameter Implants Made From Titanium-Zirconium Alloy
Authors: Al-Nawas Bilal , Domagala Peter , Fragola Giuliano , Freiberger Philip , Ortiz-Vigón Alberto , Rousseau Paul , Tondela João
Published: March 2014

Narrow diameter implants may be at increased risk of overload due to occlusal forces; therefore, implants with higher fatigue strength may be beneficial. The aim of this observational study was to evaluate survival and success of narrow diameter (Ø 3.3 mm) TiZr alloy (Roxolid, Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) implants for 2 years in daily dental practice. This was a prospective, non-interventional, multicenter study; no specific patient inclusion or exclusion criteria were applied. Each patient received at least one TiZr implant; the treatment plan, including implant loading and final restoration, was at the investigator's discretion. The primary outcome was implant survival and success after 1 year. Secondary outcomes included 2-year survival and success and marginal bone level change. A total of 603 implants were placed in 357 patients. Cumulative survival and success rates were 97.8% and 97.6%, respectively, after 1 year and 97.6% and 97.4%, respectively, after 2 years. Bone levels remained stable in the majority of patients, and soft tissue remained stable up to 2 years. Within the limitations of a non-interventional study design, TiZr implants showed excellent survival and success with minimal bone loss up to 2 years in daily dental practice. The results compare favorably with those of small-diameter implants in controlled clinical trials.
Effect of Luting Agents on Retention of Dental Implant-Supported Prostheses
Authors: Pan Yu-Hwa , Lin Tai-Min , Liu Perng-Ru , Ramp Lance C.
Published: March 2014

To evaluate the retentive strength of 7 different luting agents in cement-retained implant abutment/analog assemblies. Fifty-six externally hexed dental implant abutment/analog assemblies and cast superstructures were divided randomly into 7 groups for cementation with each of the 7 luting agents. Five definitive cements tested were zinc phosphate cement, All-Bond 2, Maxcem, RelyX Luting cement, HY-Bond, and two provisional cements, ImProv and Premier. Cast superstructures were cemented onto the implant abutments and exposed to 1000 thermal cycles (0°C–55°C) and 100 000 cycles on a chewing simulator (75 N load). A universal testing machine was used to measure cement failure load of the assembled specimens. Cement failure load was evaluated with 1-way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range analysis. Significant differences in cement failure loads were measured (P < .0001). Post hoc testing with Duncan's multiple range indicated 4 separate groupings. Maxcem and All-Bond 2 were comparable, having the greatest load failure. RelyX and zinc phosphate cement were analogous, and higher than HY-Bond. Improv and Premier constituted a pair, which demonstrated the lowest retentive values. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, Maxcem and All-Bond 2 are good candidates for cement-retained implant prostheses while concerning retention.
Avaliação do enfoque familiar e orientação para a comunidade na Estratégia Saúde da Família
Authors: Alencar Monyk Neves de , Coimbra Liberata Campos , Morais Ana Patrícia Pereira , Silva Antônio Augusto Moura da , Pinheiro Siane Rocha de Almeida , Queiroz Rejane Christine de Sousa
Published: March 2014

A Estratégia Saúde da Família deve ser focada na unidade familiar e construída operacionalmente na esfera comunitária. A presente pesquisa avaliou o enfoque familiar e a orientação para a comunidade como atributos da Atenção Primária em Saúde, comparando se as respostas diferem entre usuários, profissionais e gestores. Trata-se de pesquisa avaliativa de abordagem quantitativa de base populacional, realizada de janeiro de 2010 a março de 2011 no município de São Luís (MA). Trabalhou-se com população de 32 gestores e 80 profissionais com mais de seis meses de experiência na Estratégia e com amostra de 883 usuários selecionados por conglomerados. Foram utilizados questionários validados no Brasil a partir dos componentes do Primary Care Assessment Tool (PCATool). O índice composto do enfoque familiar foi de 2,7 para os usuários, 4,9 para os profissionais e 5,3 para os gestores. No pós-teste as diferenças foram entre os usuários e os profissionais, e usuários e gestores. O índice composto da orientação para a comunidade foi de 2,9 para os usuários, 3,9 para os profissionais e 4,8 para os gestores (p < 0,001). Os gestores atribuíram percentuais mais altos em todos os indicadores, depois os profissionais e por último os usuários. Os dois atributos tiveram avaliação insatisfatória na percepção dos usuários.
Morbidade autorreferida por trabalhadores das Equipes de Saúde da Família
Authors: Pereira Ivelisa Vilela Silva , Rocha Maria de Jesus Loredo , Silva Valquíria Macedo da , Caldeira Antônio Prates
Published: March 2014

A saúde dos trabalhadores da atenção primária ainda é pouco estudada no Brasil. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o padrão de morbidade autorreferida por trabalhadores de Equipes de Saúde da Família (ESF) na macrorregião nordeste de Minas Gerais. Realizou-se estudo transversal, com questionários autoaplicáveis, contendo dados sociodemográficos, condições de trabalho e de saúde para todos os trabalhadores das ESF. A morbidade autorreferida foi considerada a partir da Classificação Internacional de Cuidados Primários, versão 2. Foram coletadas informações de 1.731 trabalhadores em 204 unidades básicas de saúde. O grupo foi formado predominantemente por agentes comunitários de saúde, do gênero feminino. A prevalência de pelo menos um problema de saúde foi de 26,1% para mulheres e 18,3% para homens. Os principais problemas de saúde foram relacionadas aos sistemas circulatório, músculo-esquelético, respiratório, endócrino-metabólico e nervoso. As variáveis associadas a problemas de saúde, após a análise múltipla, foram sexo feminino, idade de 30 anos ou mais e tempo na equipe igual ou superior a 5 anos. A morbidade referida pelos trabalhadores da ESF mostrou-se semelhante à observada para a população em geral, destacando a necessidade de estratégias de promoção da saúde também para esses trabalhadores.
Ortodontia preventiva e interceptativa na rede de atenção básica do SUS: perspectiva dos cirurgiões-dentistas da Prefeitura Municipal de Florianópolis, Brasil
Authors: Guzzo Samuel Carlos , Finkler Mirelle , Reibnitz Júnior Calvino , Reibnitz Marynes Terezinha
Published: March 2014

O objetivo deste estudo exploratório foi conhecer a perspectiva dos cirurgiões-dentistas da rede de atenção básica à saúde de Florianópolis acerca da necessidade, viabilidade e interesse quanto à ampliação dos serviços de ortodontia preventiva e à implementação dos de ortodontia interceptativa nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município. Empregou-se um questionário estruturado para coletar as opiniões de todos os cirurgiões-dentistas da atenção básica que realizam atendimento clínico na rede. Os resultados demonstraram que: a maioria deles é favorável desde que haja uma estruturação adequada para atender à necessidade da população; que os profissionais se consideram despreparados para realizar os procedimentos necessários, de modo que haveria a necessidade de capacitações; que não haveria a necessidade de se implantar outros procedimentos de ortodontia na atenção básica além dos analisados; e que as principais dificuldades que seriam enfrentadas estariam relacionadas ao excesso de demanda e à falta de recursos humanos. Apesar destes obstáculos, a maioria dos profissionais encara como positiva e viável a ampliação/introdução desse serviço, o que favoreceria a integralidade da atenção à saúde e fortaleceria a atenção básica, melhorando assim a saúde da população.
Prevalência de hábitos de sucção não nutritivos em pré-escolares e a percepção dos pais sobre sua relação com maloclusões
Authors: Garbin Cléa Adas Saliba , Garbin Artênio José Ísper , Martins Ronald Jefferson , Souza Neila Paula de , Moimaz Suzely Adas Saliba
Published: March 2014

Este estudo transversal e descritivo objetivou verificar a prevalência de hábitos de sucção em pré-escolares e a percepção dos pais sobre a relação com a ocorrência de maloclusões. A população do estudo constituiu-se por uma amostra representativa de pais de pré-escolares de 4 meses a 6 anos de idade. Utilizou-se um questionário semiestruturado, composto por questões abertas e fechadas, referentes à frequência e conhecimentos dos pais frente aos hábitos de sucção não nutritivos. Dos 356 participantes da pesquisa, 70,8% afirmaram que as crianças apresentavam algum hábito bucal, sendo a sucção de chupeta o mais frequente (45,6%). Apesar da grande maioria dos pesquisados (97,1%) relatarem saber que os hábitos podiam causar prejuízo aos dentes, 70,2% deles já haviam oferecido chupeta à criança, na maioria das vezes para acalmá-la (61,8%). Houve associação estatisticamente significativa entre a oferta da chupeta à criança e o conhecimento sobre a relação da presença de hábitos não nutritivos e a ocorrência de maloclusão (p < 0,0001 e Qui-quadrado = 60,123). A prevalência de hábitos bucais na população estudada é alta e, apesar da maioria dos pais saberem que o hábito de sucção de chupeta pode causar danos à saúde bucal, ofertavam a chupeta a fim de acalmar a criança.
Fatores associados ao uso dos serviços de saúde bucal: estudo de base populacional em municípios do Maranhão, Brasil
Authors: Gomes Antonildes Medeiros Mota , Thomaz Erika Bárbara Abreu Fonseca , Alves Maria Teresa Seabra Soares de Britto e , Silva Antônio Augusto Moura da , Silva Raimundo Antônio da
Published: March 2014

Objetivou-se avaliar a utilização dos serviços de saúde bucal (SSB) e fatores associados nos municípios com mais de 100 mil habitantes do Maranhão. A amostra de base populacional incluiu 1214 crianças e 1059 adultos. Estimaram-se razões de prevalência (RP) por regressão de Poisson hierarquizada, segundo modelo teórico de Andersen. Mais de 91% das crianças e 71,9% dos adultos não utilizaram os SSB nos seis meses anteriores à entrevista. Dos que utilizaram 48,5% foram atendidos no SUS. Procedimentos preventivos foram mais frequentes que os curativos. Em crianças e adultos fatores predisponentes, facilitadores e de necessidade explicaram o uso de SSB. Em crianças, idade > 2 anos (RP = 5,29), maior escolaridade do chefe da família (RP = 2,37), > 6 consultas pré-natais (RP = 1,69) e necessidade de tratamento dentário (RP = 9,54) associaram-se ao maior uso dos SSB. Nos adultos, maior uso associou-se à maior escolaridade (RP = 2,26), classe econômica A/B (RP = 1,38), autopercepção da saúde boa/muito boa (RP = 1,72) e necessidade de tratamento (RP = 18,25). A utilização dos SSB não é universal, nem equânime e há deficiência na atenção integral, pois serviços de maior complexidade são utilizados por poucos. Menor número de consultas pré-natais parece ser preditor da não utilização dos SSB por crianças.
FIRST SINGLE-PORT LAPAROSCOPIC PANCREATECTOMY IN BRAZIL
Authors: MACHADO Marcel Autran Cesar , SURJAN Rodrigo Cañada Trofo , MAKDISSI Fábio Ferrari
Published: March 2014

ContextPancreatic surgery is an extremely challenging field, and the management of pancreatic diseases continues to evolve. In the past decade, minimal access surgery is moving towards minimizing the surgical trauma by reducing numbers and size of the port. In the last few years, a novel technique with a single-incision laparoscopic approach has been described for several laparoscopic procedures.ObjectivesWe present a single-port laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy. To our knowledge, this is the first single-port pancreatic resection in Brazil and Latin America.MethodsA 33-year-old woman with neuroendocrine tumor underwent spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy via single-port approach. A single-incision advanced access platform with gelatin cap, self-retaining sleeve and wound protector was used.ResultsOperative time was 174 minutes. Blood loss was minimal, and the patient did not receive a transfusion. The recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 4.ConclusionsSingle-port laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy is feasible and can be safely performed in specialized centers by skilled laparoscopic surgeons.
Aplicabilidade do indice adiposidade corporal na estimativa do percentual de gordura de jovens mulheres brasileiras
Authors: Dias Jennifer , Avila Marcia de , Damasceno Vinicius de Oliveira , Goncalves Reginaldo , Barbosa Fernando Policarpo , Lamounier Joel Alves , Vianna Jeferson Macedo
Published: March 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: A estimativa da composição corporal é um campo de estudo importante no prognóstico e diagnóstico de enfermidades degenerativas. OBJETIVO: Analisar a aplicabilidade do Índice de adiposidade corporal (IAC) e o método de dobras cutâneas. MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída por 19 adultas jovens com média de idade 24,53 ± 2,65 anos, submetidas à avaliação antropométrica (circunferências e dobras cutâneas) e absorsiometria por dupla emissão de raio X (DXA). Os valores estimados foram comparados ao valor de referência por meio do teste t pareado e pela análise do nível de associação entre os métodos pela correlação de Pearson; o nível de significância foi p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Não apontaram diferenças significativas entre o percentual de gordura estimado pelo IAC e os valores de referência, porém, tiveram nível de associação moderado (r = 0,627). No entanto, o método de dobras cutâneas apresentou diferença estatística significante (p > 0,05) com nível de associação forte (r = 0,879). CONCLUSÃO: Embora o IAC não apresente diferença para os valores estimados, fica evidente a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a aplicabilidade do método na população brasileira.
A termografia no apoio ao diagnostico de lesao muscular no esporte
Authors: Bandeira Fabio , Neves Eduardo Borba , Moura Marcos Antonio Muniz de , Nohama Percy
Published: March 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: O rúgbi é um dos esportes que mais ocasionam lesões. A lesão muscular apresenta uma variação térmica localizada, provocando um acréscimo da temperatura local que supostamente pode ser avaliado por meio da mensuração da temperatura. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a correlação entre a variação de temperatura da pele em diversos sítios corporais e a variação da CK, em dois momentos do ciclo de atividades dos atletas profissionais de rúgbi, para, dessa forma, avaliar a utilização da termografia como método de apoio ao diagnóstico de lesões musculares. MÉTODOS: Participaram deste estudo, 21 atletas de rúgbi do sexo masculino com idade entre 19 e 31 anos, de um clube profissional de nível nacional. Foram realizadas coletas de sangue para avaliar a concentração sérica de CK e a aquisição da imagem infravermelha dos atletas (48 h pós-treino e 48 h pós-jogo) para avaliação da temperatura da pele nos músculos de interesse. Foram realizadas imagens do tronco e das coxas, nas incidências anterior e posterior. A análise dos termogramas foi realizada de forma sistemática. RESULTADOS: Não houve correlação entre a variação da CK e a variação de temperatura média das áreas dos músculos selecionados. Entretanto, no grupo de atletas que apresentaram elevação da CK superior a 50% entre o primeiro e o segundo momento de avaliação, os músculos peitoral esquerdo e semitendíneo esquerdo apresentaram diferenças significativas com valor de p de 0,037 e 0,045, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: Pode-se concluir que a termografia pode ser utilizada como método de apoio ao diagnóstico de lesão muscular em atletas.
Incidence of pulmonary embolism during COPD exacerbation
Authors: Akpinar Evrim Eylem , Hosgun Derya , Akpynar Serdar , Atac Gokce Kaan , Doganay Beyza , Gulhan Meral
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: Because pulmonary embolism (PE) and COPD exacerbation have similar presentations and symptoms, PE can be overlooked in COPD patients. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of PE during COPD exacerbation and to describe the clinical aspects in COPD patients diagnosed with PE. METHODS: This was a prospective study conducted at a university hospital in the city of Ankara, Turkey. We included all COPD patients who were hospitalized due to acute exacerbation of COPD between May of 2011 and May of 2013. All patients underwent clinical risk assessment, arterial blood gas analysis, chest CT angiography, and Doppler ultrasonography of the lower extremities. In addition, we measured D-dimer levels and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) levels. RESULTS: We included 172 patients with COPD. The prevalence of PE was 29.1%. The patients with pleuritic chest pain, lower limb asymmetry, and high NT-pro-BNP levels were more likely to develop PE, as were those who were obese or immobile. Obesity and lower limb asymmetry were independent predictors of PE during COPD exacerbation (OR = 4.97; 95% CI, 1.775-13.931 and OR = 2.329; 95% CI, 1.127-7.105, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of PE in patients with COPD exacerbation was higher than expected. The association between PE and COPD exacerbation should be considered, especially in patients who are immobile or obese.
Chest compression with a higher level of pressure support ventilation: effects on secretion removal, hemodynamics, and respiratory mechanics in patients on mechanical ventilation
Authors: Naue Wagner da Silva , Forgiarini Junior Luiz Alberto , Dias Alexandre Simoes , Vieira Silvia Regina Rios
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of chest compression accompanied by a 10-cmH2O increase in baseline inspiratory pressure on pressure support ventilation, in comparison with that of aspiration alone, in removing secretions, normalizing hemodynamics, and improving respiratory mechanics in patients on mechanical ventilation. METHODS: This was a randomized crossover clinical trial involving patients on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 h in the ICU of the Porto Alegre Hospital de Clínicas, in the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. Patients were randomized to receive aspiration alone (control group) or compression accompanied by a 10-cmH2O increase in baseline inspiratory pressure on pressure support ventilation (intervention group). We measured hemodynamic parameters, respiratory mechanics parameters, and the amount of secretions collected. RESULTS: We included 34 patients. The mean age was 64.2 ± 14.6 years. In comparison with the control group, the intervention group showed a higher median amount of secretions collected (1.9 g vs. 2.3 g; p = 0.004), a greater increase in mean expiratory tidal volume (16 ± 69 mL vs. 56 ± 69 mL; p = 0.018), and a greater increase in mean dynamic compliance (0.1 ± 4.9 cmH2O vs. 2.8 ± 4.5 cmH2O; p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: In this sample, chest compression accompanied by an increase in pressure support significantly increased the amount of secretions removed, the expiratory tidal volume, and dynamic compliance. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT01155648 [http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/])
Empyema and bacteremic pneumococcal pneumonia in children under five years of age
Authors: Cardoso Maria Regina Alves , Nascimento-Carvalho Cristiana Maria Costa , Ferrero Fernando , Berezin Eitan Naaman , Ruvinsky Raul , Sant'Anna Clemax Couto , Brandileone Maria Cristina de Cunto , March Maria de Fatima Bazhuni Pombo , Maggi Ruben , Feris-Iglesias Jesus , Benguigui Yehuda , Camargos Paulo Augusto Moreira
Published: March 2014

We compared bacteremic pneumococcal pneumonia (BPP) and pneumococcal empyema (PE), in terms of clinical, radiological, and laboratory findings, in under-fives. A cross-sectional nested cohort study, involving under-fives (102 with PE and 128 with BPP), was conducted at 12 centers in Argentina, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic. Among those with PE, mean age was higher; disease duration was longer; and tachypnea, dyspnea, and high leukocyte counts were more common. Among those with BPP, fever and lethargy were more common. It seems that children with PE can be distinguished from those with BPP on the basis of clinical and laboratory findings. Because both conditions are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, prompt diagnosis is crucial.
Adalimumab-induced acute interstitial lung disease in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Dias Olivia Meira , Pereira Daniel Antunes Silva , Baldi Bruno Guedes , Costa Andre Nathan , Athanazio Rodrigo Abensur , Kairalla Ronaldo Adib , Carvalho Carlos Roberto Ribeiro
Published: March 2014

The use of immunobiological agents for the treatment of autoimmune diseases is increasing in medical practice. Anti-TNF therapies have been increasingly used in refractory autoimmune diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis, with promising results. However, the use of such therapies has been associated with an increased risk of developing other autoimmune diseases. In addition, the use of anti-TNF agents can cause pulmonary complications, such as reactivation of mycobacterial and fungal infections, as well as sarcoidosis and other interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). There is evidence of an association between ILD and the use of anti-TNF agents, etanercept and infliximab in particular. Adalimumab is the newest drug in this class, and some authors have suggested that its use might induce or exacerbate preexisting ILDs. In this study, we report the first case of acute ILD secondary to the use of adalimumab in Brazil, in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and without a history of ILD.
Management of Localized Esophageal Cancer in the Older Patient
Authors: Won Elizabeth , Ilson David H.
Published: March 2014

Most patients with gastroesophageal cancers are older than 65 years of age. The management of older patients poses challenges because they have multiple comorbidities and physiological changes associated with aging. Furthermore, data are limited on tolerance of cancer therapy and the use of combined-modality treatments in this patient population to guide their treatment. In this article, we focus on the management of older patients with localized esophageal cancer, highlighting the role of comprehensive geriatric assessment to identify and better tailor treatment approaches in this patient population. We review the literature and discuss the role of surgical resection and potential complications specific to an older patient. We review the rationale of combined-modality treatment and the potential benefits of a chemoradiotherapy-based approach in this patient population.
Profiling Cancer Gene Mutations in Clinical Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Colorectal Tumor Specimens Using Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Zhang Liangxuan , Chen Liangjing , Sah Sachin , Latham Gary J. , Patel Rajesh , Song Qinghua , Koeppen Hartmut , Tam Rachel , Schleifman Erica , Mashhedi Haider , Chalasani Sreedevi , Fu Ling , Sumiyoshi Teiko , Raja Rajiv , Forrest William , Hampton Garret M. , Lackner Mark R. , Hegde Priti , Jia Shidong
Published: March 2014

Purpose.

The success of precision oncology relies on accurate and sensitive molecular profiling. The Ion AmpliSeq Cancer Panel, a targeted enrichment method for next-generation sequencing (NGS) using the Ion Torrent platform, provides a fast, easy, and cost-effective sequencing workflow for detecting genomic “hotspot” regions that are frequently mutated in human cancer genes. Most recently, the U.K. has launched the AmpliSeq sequencing test in its National Health Service. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application of the AmpliSeq methodology.

Methods.

We used 10 ng of genomic DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human colorectal cancer (CRC) tumor specimens to sequence 46 cancer genes using the AmpliSeq platform. In a validation study, we developed an orthogonal NGS-based resequencing approach (SimpliSeq) to assess the AmpliSeq variant calls.

Results.

Validated mutational analyses revealed that AmpliSeq was effective in profiling gene mutations, and that the method correctly pinpointed “true-positive” gene mutations with variant frequency >5% and demonstrated high-level molecular heterogeneity in CRC. However, AmpliSeq enrichment and NGS also produced several recurrent “false-positive” calls in clinically druggable oncogenes such as PIK3CA.

Conclusion.

AmpliSeq provided highly sensitive and quantitative mutation detection for most of the genes on its cancer panel using limited DNA quantities from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples. For those genes with recurrent “false-positive” variant calls, caution should be used in data interpretation, and orthogonal verification of mutations is recommended for clinical decision making.
Plasticising mechanism of sodium gluconate combined with PCE
Authors: Lesage Karel , Cizer Özlem , Desmet Bram , Vantomme John , De Schutter Geert , Vandewalle Lucie
Published: March 2014

In this research, the plasticising mechanism of sodium gluconate (SG) retarder in cement paste containing a superplasticiser has been investigated in order to clarify the performance of the admixture combination in concrete. From adsorption and zeta-potential measurements, it is found that a lower viscosity occurs owing to (a) the electrostatic repulsion and (b) a lower particle volume fraction. Moreover, the gluconate anion is expected to enhance the formation of a homogenous polymer network on the cement grain surface, which explains the viscosity stabilisation time. In situ investigations of hydration using environmental scanning electron microscopy showed that SG induced modifications of the ettringite crystal morphology by reducing the amount and size of the ettringite needles. From pore solution analysis and energy-dispersive X-ray spectra, a mineral similar to syngenite is detected. These morphological changes lower the shear resistance and the paste viscosity. A thorough understanding of the plasticising mechanism will lead eventually to a more predictable concrete flow behaviour, which is particularly useful for concrete practitioners facing concerns related to combined use of admixtures.
Industrial network design by improving construction logistics
Authors: Tischer André , den Boer Emilia , Williams Ian , Curran Tony
Published: March 2014

Implementing an industrial network in the construction industry can be achieved by changing construction management activities directly on the construction site within the design and operation phase. Construction logistics plays a crucial role here, in particular on the downstream side where waste has to be efficiently collected, separated, sorted and, finally, transported from site to different waste management options. The objective of this paper is to introduce an approach for efficient construction logistics that can ensure successful implementation of an industrial network in the construction industry from the point of view of on-site materials management within the logistics of disposal. Two construction projects in Germany were investigated and it was found that the total number of material streams separated directly on site in each project could be increased from 1 to 7 and from 1 to 19 different fractions. The study also revealed that the reuse and recycling rate could be increased to over 75% in both projects and the total costs of construction logistics could also be reduced. It was thus possible to increase material resource efficiency on the downstream side for both construction projects – by 43% in project I and by 68% in project II.
Does landscape context mediate the nature of density dependence for a coral reef fish?
Authors: Yeager Lauren A. , Stoner Elizabeth W. , Zapata Martha J. , Layman Craig A.
Published: March 2014

Over‐harvest and landscape change are two of the greatest threats to marine ecosystems. Over‐harvest may directly affect key population regulation mechanisms (e.g., density dependence), with the magnitude of the effects being further influenced by changes in landscape structure and associated resource availability. Because resource availability and conspecific density often co‐vary within the natural landscape, manipulative experiments are needed to understand how changes in these two drivers may affect density dependence in wild populations. We used a common, shoaling, coral reef fish (white grunt, Haemulon plumierii) as our model species, and manipulated fish densities and landscape context of artificial reef habitats to assess the effects of each on fish condition. We found evidence of inverse density dependence, where individual condition was positively related to conspecific density; landscape context had little effect. Mean grunt condition on natural patch reefs was similar to that for our low grunt density treatment artificial reefs, possibly due to differences in fish densities or landscape context. These findings suggest that over‐harvest may have detrimental effects on wild populations that extend beyond mere reductions in population size, especially for group‐living species.
Do Literature Review Skills Transfer from One Course to Another?
Authors: Cook Kathleen E. , Murowchick Elise
Published: March 2014

Creating literature reviews encompasses skills that are central to psychology students' academic and professional lives, yet writing them consistently challenges students. Research shows that instruction leads to improvement in students' literature reviews within courses (Boscolo, Arfé, & Quarisa, 2007; Granello, 2001), but little work examines how such instruction carries over to other courses. Our study addresses this by comparing literature reviews from two required courses. Students are taught to write reviews in a psychology writing course (PSYC 205), and without additional instruction, students again write reviews in a Statistics and Research Methods course (PSYC 305). Do the skills transfer? A sample of PSYC 305 reviews ( n = 17) was drawn and their PSYC 205 literature reviews obtained. All reviews were graded using the same rubric. A within-subjects comparison showed that students' PSYC 305 reviews were significantly improved. For a second between-subjects comparison, these PSYC 305 reviews were compared to the 305 reviews of students who did not have PSYC 205. The reviews of those who had PSYC 205 were significantly better than the reviews of those who did not. These combined results suggest that we can teach transferable literature review skills, and, given their importance, we suggest that psychology programmes should.
Careers in Psychology: Creating Customized Learning to Expose the Invisible Curriculum
Authors: Case Kim A. , Miller Angela , Hensley Rachel , Jackson Shaprie
Published: March 2014

Invisible knowledge or the hidden curriculum, the informal education some students get from faculty mentors, is a privilege not afforded to all students. Many universities have instituted psychology careers courses to assist undergraduate psychology students with academic and career advisement. Designed to share this invisible curriculum with all psychology majors, the Careers in Psychology course introduced here is a one-credit online class required for all majors. The course involves a high level of student engagement through interactive activities, customized curriculum to individual career goals, videos of guest speakers, online discussions, and professional development assignments. Feedback from formal student evaluations and student reflections about the careers course suggest students gained valuable professional skills and mentoring.
Overcoming the Reluctance to Convey Negative Project Information during an Information Systems Pre-Implementation Review
Authors: Tuttle Brad M. , Taylor Mark H. , Wu Yi-Jing
Published: March 2014

This study investigates conditions under which the presence of an auditor conducting a pre-implementation review increases experienced information systems (IS) professionals' willingness to convey negative project information beyond reporting to senior management. Results of an experiment suggest that the presence of an auditor during the pre-implementation process encourages reporting to an auditor when (1) IS professionals believe their responsibility to report is low, and (2) perceived negative consequences are high and the expectancy that problems will be corrected if reported is low. Further, our results indicate that confidentiality provided by the auditor is particularly important when IS professionals believe their responsibility to report is low. Results of this study have important implications for organizations seeking to reduce risks associated with runaway IT projects by identifying circumstances in which auditors can reduce the information asymmetry between IS professionals and management, especially in circumstances where IS professionals are the most reluctant to report (e.g., low perceived responsibility, high perceived negative consequences).
Stat3 and Gap Junctions in Normal and Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Guy Stephanie , Geletu Mulu , Arulanandam Rozanne , Raptis Leda
Published: March 2014

Gap junctions are channels linking the interiors of neighboring cells. A reduction in gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) correlates with high cell proliferation, while oncogene products such as Src suppress GJIC, through the Ras/Raf/Erk and other effector pathways. High Src activity was found to correlate with high levels of the Src effector, Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 (Stat3) in its tyrosine-705 phosphorylated, i.e., transcriptionally activated form, in the majority of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer lines examined. However, Stat3 inhibition did not restore GJIC in lines with high Src activity. In the contrary, Stat3 inhibition in normal cells or in lines with low Src activity and high GJIC eliminated gap junctional communication. Therefore, despite the fact that Stat3 is growth promoting and in an activated form acts like an oncogene, it is actually required for junctional permeability.
Credible Granger-Causality Inference with Modest Sample Lengths: A Cross-Sample Validation Approach
Authors: Ashley Richard , Tsang Kwok
Published: March 2014

Credible Granger-causality analysis appears to require post-sample inference, as it is well-known that in-sample fit can be a poor guide to actual forecasting effectiveness. However, post-sample model testing requires an often-consequential a priori partitioning of the data into an “in-sample” period – purportedly utilized only for model specification/estimation – and a “post-sample” period, purportedly utilized (only at the end of the analysis) for model validation/testing purposes. This partitioning is usually infeasible, however, with samples of modest length – e.g., T ≤ 150 – as is common in both quarterly data sets and/or in monthly data sets where institutional arrangements vary over time, simply because there is in such cases insufficient data available to credibly accomplish both purposes separately. A cross-sample validation (CSV) testing procedure is proposed below which both eliminates the aforementioned a priori partitioning and which also substantially ameliorates this power versus credibility predicament – preserving most of the power of in-sample testing (by utilizing all of the sample data in the test), while also retaining most of the credibility of post-sample testing (by always basing model forecasts on data not utilized in estimating that particular model’s coefficients). Simulations show that the price paid, in terms of power relative to the in-sample Granger-causality F test, is manageable. An illustrative application is given, to a re-analysis of the Engel andWest [1] study of the causal relationship between macroeconomic fundamentals and the exchange rate; several of their conclusions are changed by our analysis.
Early Diagnosis of Irkut Virus Infection Using Magnetic Bead-Based Serum Peptide Profiling by MALDI-TOF MS in a Mouse Model
Authors: Li Nan , Liu Ye , Hao Zhuo , Zhang Shoufeng , Hu Rongliang , Li Jiping
Published: March 2014

Early diagnosis is important for the prompt post-exposure prophylaxis of lyssavirus infections. To diagnose Irkut virus (IRKV) infection during incubation in mice, a novel method using magnetic bead-based serum peptide profiling by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been established. For this test, serum peptides were concentrated by adsorption to and elution from the magnetic bead-based weak cation ion exchanger. Mass spectrograms obtained by MALDI-TOF MS were analyzed using ClinProTools bioinformatics software. Construction of the diagnostic model was performed using serum samples from mice infected with IRKV and rabies virus (RABV) BD06, Flury-LEP, and SRV9 (as controls). The method accurately diagnosed sera 2, 4 and 8 days after IRKV and RABV infections. The sensitivity, specificity, and total accuracy of diagnosis were 86.7%, 95.2%, and 92.9%, respectively. However, IRKV could not be differentiated from RABV 1 day after infection. The results of the present study indicate that serum peptide profiling by MALDI-TOF MS is a promising technique for the early clinical diagnosis of lyssavirus infections and needs to be further tested in humans and farm animals.
Terminal Protection of Small Molecule-Linked DNA for Small Molecule–Protein Interaction Assays
Authors: Hu Cui , Wu Zhan , Tang Hao , Tang Li-Juan , Yu Ru-Qin , Jiang Jian-Hui
Published: March 2014

Methods for the detection of specific interactions between diverse proteins and various small-molecule ligands are of significant importance in understanding the mechanisms of many critical physiological processes of organisms. The techniques also represent a major avenue to drug screening, molecular diagnostics, and public safety monitoring. Terminal protection assay of small molecule-linked DNA is a demonstrated novel methodology which has exhibited great potential for the development of simple, sensitive, specific and high-throughput methods for the detection of small molecule–protein interactions. Herein, we review the basic principle of terminal protection assay, the development of associated methods, and the signal amplification strategies adopted for performance improving in small molecule–protein interaction assay.
Validation of the Merton Distance to the Default Model under Ambiguity
Authors: Chen Wei-ling , So Leh-chyan
Published: March 2014

Bharath and Shumway (2008) provide evidence that shows that it is the functional form of Merton’s (1974) distance to default (DD) model that makes it useful and important for predicting defaults. In this paper, we investigate whether the default predictability of the Merton DD model would be affected by taking investors’ ambiguity aversion into consideration. The Cox proportional hazard model is used to compare the forecasting power of Bharath and Shumway’s naive model, which retains the functional form of the Merton DD model and computes the default probability in a naive way, with our new model, which treats investors’ ambiguity aversion as additional information. We provide evidence to show that our new model performs better than Bharath and Shumway’s naive model. In addition, our empirical results show that the statistical significance of Bharath and Shumway’s naive default probability is retained in the credit default swap (CDS) spread regressions, though the sign of the coefficient is changed. However, both the sign and the statistical significance of our model are retained in the CDS spread regressions.
The Estimation of Regional Crop Yield Using Ensemble-Based Four-Dimensional Variational Data Assimilation
Authors: Jiang Zhiwei , Chen Zhongxin , Chen Jin , Ren Jianqiang , Li Zongnan , Sun Liang
Published: March 2014

To improve crop model performance for regional crop yield estimates, a new four-dimensional variational algorithm (POD4DVar) merging the Monte Carlo and proper orthogonal decomposition techniques was introduced to develop a data assimilation strategy using the Crop Environment Resource Synthesis (CERES)-Wheat model. Two winter wheat yield estimation procedures were conducted on a field plot and regional scale to test the feasibility and potential of the POD4DVar-based strategy. Winter wheat yield forecasts for the field plots showed a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.73, a root mean square error (RMSE) of 319 kg/ha, and a relative error (RE) of 3.49%. An acceptable yield at the regional scale was estimated with an R2 of 0.997, RMSE of 7346 tons, and RE of 3.81%. The POD4DVar-based strategy was more accurate and efficient than the EnKF-based strategy. In addition to crop yield, other critical crop variables such as the biomass, harvest index, evapotranspiration, and soil organic carbon may also be estimated. The present study thus introduces a promising approach for operationally monitoring regional crop growth and predicting yield. Successful application of this assimilation model at regional scales must focus on uncertainties derived from the crop model, model inputs, data assimilation algorithm, and assimilated observations.