bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Mycobacterium Simiae infection and HTLV1 infection: an incidental co-infection or a predisposing factor?
Authors: Mirsaeidi S.M. , Tabarsi P. , Mardanloo A. , Ebrahimi G. , Amiri M. , Farnia P. , Sheikhleslami M. , Bakayev V. , Mohammadi F. , Mansouri S.D. , Masjedi M.R. , Velayati A.A.
Published: July 2016

There is little information on atypical mycobacterium and human T lymphothropic virus Type I (HTLV-I) co-infection. We present the first case of pulmonary M. simiae infection in co-infection with HTLV-1, confirmed by ELISA antibody test and Western Blot. We discuss the clinical characteristics and laboratory tests of the patient and presumptive immunological relation. We propose that in patients with the HTLV infection and pulmonary symptoms and signs compatible with tuberculosis, evaluation for atypical mycobacteriosis may be recommendable.
Carcinoid tumour behind bronchiectasis
Authors: Charokopos N. , Tsiamita M. , Karkoulias K. , Koumoundourou D. , Aletra C. , Dougenis D. , Spiropoulos K.
Published: July 2016

This report describes a female patient with bronchiectasis, presented to our department with recurrent hemoptysis. Bronchoscopy revealed nothing else but blood arising from the upper lobe bronchus. High resolution computing tomography of the lung (HRCT) revealed bronchiectasis of the upper lobe. A right upper lobectomy was performed. Behind bronchiectasis multiple nodular lesions, 5-10 mm were observed. Histological and immunohistochemical examination revealed findings consistent with peripheral typical bronchial carcinoids.
Differential effect of cigarette smoking on hydrogen peroxide and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances exhaled in patients with community acquired pneumonia
Authors: Stolarek R.A. , Kasielski M. , Rysz J. , Bialasiewicz P. , Nowak D.
Published: July 2016

Background. This study was designed to investigate the effect of cigarette smoking on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARs) concentrations in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in patients with community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Methods. H2O2 and TBARs concentrations in EBC were determined with spectrofluorimetrical assays. Results. Non-smoking CAP patients (n=24) exhaled 1.4, 1.8 and 1.7 times more H2O2 than the smoking patients with CAP (n=19) as assessed one (0.73Â±0.32 Î¼M v. 0.51Â±0.36 Î¼M), three (0.84Â±0.31 Î¼M v. 0.47Â±0.24 Î¼M) and five (0.66Â±0.28 Î¼M v. 0.40Â±0.35 Î¼M) days after admission (p<0.05 in each case). Over 10 days of hospital treatment, mean level of exhaled H2O2 0.45Â±0.22 Î¼M in CAP patients with smoking history was decreased if compared with 0.71Â±0.19 Î¼M exhaled H2O2 in CAP group (p=0.005). On the contrary, TBARs concentration evaluated over entire study period was increased in smoking CAP patients (median 0.02 Î¼M, range 0-0.32 Î¼M) compared with non-smoking group (median 0.01 Î¼M, range 0-0.21 Î¼M, p<0.05). Concurrent, active smoking status was related with the decreased levels of H2O2 exhaled in breath condensate within the course of CAP but it appeared to increase levels of TBARs. Conclusions. The differential alternations of oxidative parameters in EBC with respect to the smoking status might provide evidence of increased H2O2 decomposition and enhanced generation of reactive species in airways of CAP patients.
Practice parameters for sublingual immunotherapy
Authors: Ortolani C. , Agostinis F. , Amoroso S. , Ariano R. , Barbato A. , Bassi M. , Cadario G. , Campi P. , Cardinale F. , Ciprandi G. , Dâ€™Anneo R. , Di Gioacchino M. , Di Rienzo V. , Fiocchi A. , Galimberti M. , Galli E. , Giovannini M. , Incorvaia C. , La Grutta S. , Lombardi C. , Marcucci F. , Marseglia G. , Minelli M. , Musarra A. , Nettis E. , Novembre E. , Pajno G. , Patriarca G. , Pezzuto F. , Piras P. , Pucci S. , Romano A. , Romano C. , Quercia O. , Scala G. , Schiavino D. , Sforza G. , Tosca M. , Tripodi S. , Frati F.
Published: July 2016

The efficacy and safety of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) are currently supported by clinical trials, metaanalysis and post-marketing surveys. Practice parameters for clinical use of SLIT are proposed here by a panel of Italian specialists, with reference to evidence based criteria. Indications to SLIT include allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma, and isolated conjunctivitis (strength of recommendation: grade A). As to severity of the disease, SLIT is indicated in moderate/severe intermittent rhinitis, persistent rhinitis and mild to moderate asthma (grade D). SLIT may be safely prescribed also in children aged three to five years (grade B), and its use in subjects aged more than 60 years is not prevented when the indications and contraindication are ascertained (grade D). The choice of the allergen to be employed for SLIT should be made in accordance with the combination of clinical history and results of skin prick tests (grade D). Polysensitisation, i.e. the occurrence of multiple positive response does not exclude SLIT, which may be done with the clinically most important allergens (grade D). As to practical administration, co-seasonal, pre co-seasonal, and continuous schedules are available, being the latter recommended for perennial allergens or for pollens with particularly prolonged pollination, such as Parietaria (grade D). For pollens with relatively short pollination, such as grasses and trees (cypress, birch, alder, hazelnut, olive) the pre coseasonal and perennial schedules are preferred (grade C). The build-up phases suggested by manufacturers can be safely used (grade A), but they can be modified according to the patientâ€™s tolerance (grade C). A duration of SLIT of 3-5 years is recommended to ensure a long-lasting clinical effect after the treatment has been terminated (grade C).
Fire-eaterâ€™s pneumonitis
Authors: Grossi E. , Crisanti E. , Poletti G. , Poletti V.
Published: July 2016

Fire-eaterâ€™s pneumonitis, also known as â€˜fireeaterâ€™s lungâ€™, is an acute inflammatory response of the lungs to the accidental aspiration, during the show, of â€˜pyrofluidsâ€™ or kerdan [1-9]. Kerdan is composed of petroleum-distilled products like toluene, xylene, ethilbenzene which differ from kerosene composition. Kerdan is characterised by its reduced viscosity and, unfortunately, by its rapid diffusion throughout the bronchial tree after sudden accidental aspiration [7]. Histological findings (not easily available in the literature) show necrotising acute bronchiolitis and necrotising acute fibrinous pneumonia, as previously reported in experimental models [10]. Despite the severe initial presentation, â€˜fire-eaterâ€™s lungâ€™ usually has a favourable evolution with â€˜restitutio ad integrumâ€™ of pulmonary functions [7].
Post-intubation tracheal stenoses: what is the curative yield of the interventional pulmonology procedures?
Authors: Patelli M. , Gasparini S.
Published: July 2016

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Brittle asthma
Authors: Toungoussova O. , Foschino Barbaro M.P. , Esposito L.M. , Carpagnano G.E. , Salerno F.G. , Dal Negro R.W. , Spanevello A.
Published: July 2016

Brittle asthma is a clinical phenotype of the disease at the severe end of the spectrum. Type 1 brittle asthma is characterised by a maintained wide PEF variability (> 40% diurnal variation for > 50% of the time over a period of at least 150 days) despite considerable medical therapy including a dose of inhaled steroids of at least 1500 Î¼g of beclomethasone or equivalent. Type 2 brittle asthma is characterised by sudden acute attacks occurring in less than three hours without an obvious trigger on a background of apparent normal airway function or well controlled asthma. Mechanisms behind the development of brittle asthma include smooth muscle contraction and edema of the airways, which are supported by chronic airway inflammation. Allergy reactions, impairment of local immunity, respiratory infections, psycho-social disorders and reduced perception of worsening airway function are the risk factors for brittle asthma. The diagnosis is based on the analysis of specific symptoms, role of triggers, personal or family history, measurement of lung function and PEF monitoring. Pharmacological treatment of type 1 brittle asthma in addition to the high doses of inhaled and/or oral steroids and bronchodilators includes subcutaneous injections of Î²2 agonist and inhalation of long acting Î²2 agonist. The treatment of patients with type 2 brittle asthma includes exclusion of allergen exposure, identification of triggers, self management and management of acute attacks.
Acebrophylline: an airway mucoregulator and anti-inflammatory agent
Authors: Pozzi E.
Published: July 2016

Acebrophylline is an airway mucus regulator with antiinflammatory action. The drugâ€™s approach involves several points of attack in obstructive airway disease. The molecule contains ambroxol, which facilitates various steps in the biosynthesis of pulmonary surfactant, theophylline-7 acetic acid whose carrier function raises blood levels of ambroxol, thus rapidly and intensely stimulating surfactant production. The resulting reduction in the viscosity and adhesivity of the mucus greatly improves ciliary clearance. By deviating phosphatidylcholine towards surfactant synthesis, making it no longer available for the synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as the leukotrienes, acebrophylline also exerts an inflammatory effect. This is confirmed in vivo by the reduction in aspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness in patients with stable bronchial asthma. On a clinical level, acebrophylline is therapeutically effective in patients with acute or chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive or asthma-like bronchitis and recurrence of chronic bronchitis; it reduces the frequency of episodes of bronchial obstruction and reduces the need for Î²2-agonists, and improves indexes of ventilatory function.
Note from the Editors
Authors: Balbi Bruno , Spanevello Antonio
Published: July 2016

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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis viewed from a patientâ€™s perspective
Authors: Melazzini M.
Published: July 2016

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Long term evaluation of mental fatigue by Maastricht Questionnaire in patients with OSAS treated with CPAP
Authors: CarratÃ¹ P. , Karageorgiou G. , Bonfitto P. , Di Gioia G. , Lacedonia D. , Foschino Barbaro M.P. , Resta O.
Published: July 2016

Background. Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) suffer from disrupted sleep. Impaired nightly sleep leads to increase physical and mental fatigue. The effect of long term continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on mental fatigue in OSAS patients, assessed by Maastricht Questionnaire (MQ), has not been investigated yet. Methods. In order to evaluate the role of CPAP in improving mental fatigue of patients with OSAS, we studied 35 patients (26 males, age <65 years at the time of the diagnosis) affected by OSAS, established by polysomnography (PSG). Patients were divided into two groups; 19 subjects (15 males), who refused CPAP therapy, and 16 patients (11 males) well matched for sex, age, body mass index (BMI), neck circumference, duration of follow up, and severity of disease, who had been treated with CPAP for at least two years. Results. All patients had severe OSAS with Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI), of 48Â±20.9 (range 22-90) and 61.48Â±18.6 (range 34-101) respectively, for group one (untreated patients) and group two (CPAP treatment). In addition, all patients had severe impairment of mental fatigue and of daytime sleepiness, demonstrated by high values of MQ score (32.17Â±15.33 and 37.36Â±12.4, respectively) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) (14.21Â±4.77 and 15.06Â±6.07 respectively). There was no statistical significant difference in the group one at baseline and after follow- up, in terms of BMI, MQ score, ESS, and RDI. In the CPAP group (group two), the patients reported a significant improvement of the quality of their mental health (MQ 37.36Â±12.4 vs. 16.41Â±9.02; p<0.0001) and sleepiness (ESS 15.06Â±6.07 vs. 4.13Â±3.93; p<0.0001) with a stable BMI. There was significant correlation between the severity of sleep apnoea, expressed as RDI, and MQ at admission compared to at the end of follow-up (r=0.4, p<0.05). Conclusions. This study demonstrates an evident deterioration of mental fatigue in patients with OSAS, directly correlated to the severity of nocturnal disorder breathing; however supports the hypothesis that long term CPAP therapy significantly improves sleepiness and mental fatigue.
Once daily nebulized beclomethasone is effective in maintaining pulmonary function and improving symptoms in asthmatic children
Authors: La Grutta S. , Nicolini G. , Capristo C. , Bellodi S.C. , Rossi G.A.
Published: July 2016

Background and Aim. Compliance with long-term inhaled therapy in asthma is often poor, but it is likely to be improved with a simplified administration, once daily.The present study was designed to assess whether, in childhood asthma, a single dose of nebulized beclomethasone dipropionate once daily was as effective and safe as the same total daily dose administered twice daily. Methods. Asthmatic children, not treated with inhaled steroids for at least a month preceding the study and using short-acting bronchodilators more than once a week were enrolled in a double-blind, double dummy, randomised, multicentric study. After a two week run-in period on nebulised twice daily 400 mcg beclomethasone dipropionate, patients were randomly assigned to twelve weeks of treatment with 800 mcg nebulised beclomethasone dipropionate daily, either in single dose (o.d. group) or divided into two 400 mcg doses (b.i.d. group). Results. 65 children (mean age 8.6 years, mean FEV1 81% of predicted), were valuable for intention to treat. During the run-in period, a significant improvement in FEV1, FVC, morning and evening PEF values and clinical scores was observed. Children then entered the randomised trial: 32 were included in the o.d. group and 33 in the b.i.d. group. During the twelve week treatment period, the observed improvement in pulmonary function parameters was maintained in both treatment groups. Morning and evening PEF showed a progressive slight increase as well as PEF diurnal variability showed a progressive reduction in the two treatment groups during the whole study period without reaching statistical significance. Moreover, in both treatment groups a similar progressive increase in symptom free nights and days and in the percentage of children achieving total asthma symptoms control was detected. Finally, no significant changes in urinary cortisol/creatinine ratio were observed throughout the study period and between groups. Conclusions. A daily dose of 800 mcg of beclomethasone, administered for twelve weeks with a nebuliser either once or twice daily provide similar efficacy in maintaining pulmonary function and symptoms of asthmatic children, with a good tolerability profile.
Contemporary treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Stukalin Igor , Alimohamed Nimira , Heng Daniel Y.C.
Published: July 2016

The introduction of targeted therapy has revolutionized the treatment of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). The current standard of care focuses on the inhibition of angiogenesis through the targeting of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Over the past few years, research exploring novel targeted agents has blossomed, leading to the approval of various targeted therapies. Furthermore, results from the CheckMate025 and the METEOR trials have brought about two additional novel options: the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab and the MET/VEGFR/AXL inhibitor cabozantinib, respectively. With the variety of therapeutic agents available for treatment of mRCC, research examining appropriate sequencing and combinations of the drugs is ongoing. This review discusses the role of prognostic criteria, such as those from the International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium (IMDC) criteria. It also covers the current standard of treatment for mRCC with targeted therapy in first-, second-, and thirdline setting. Additionally, the novel mechanism of action of nivolumab and cabozantinib, therapeutic sequencing and ongoing clinical trials are discussed.
Tissue- and Serum-Associated Biomarkers of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chauhan Ranjit , Lahiri Nivedita
Published: July 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the world, is offering a challenge to human beings, with the current modes of treatment being a palliative approach. Lack of proper curative or preventive treatment methods encouraged extensive research around the world with an aim to detect a vaccine or therapeutic target biomolecule that could lead to development of a drug or vaccine against HCC. Biomarkers or biological disease markers have emerged as a potential tool as drug/vaccine targets, as they can accurately diagnose, predict, and even prevent the diseases. Biomarker expression in tissue, serum, plasma, or urine can detect tumor in very early stages of its development and monitor the cancer progression and also the effect of therapeutic interventions. Biomarker discoveries are driven by advanced techniques, such as proteomics, transcriptomics, whole genome sequencing, micro- and micro-RNA arrays, and translational clinics. In this review, an overview of the potential of tissue- and serum-associated HCC biomarkers as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets for drug development is presented. In addition, we highlight recently developed micro-RNA, long noncoding RNA biomarkers, and single-nucleotide changes, which may be used independently or as complementary biomarkers. These active investigations going on around the world aimed at conquering HCC might show a bright light in the near future.
Алгоритм поиска идентичных объектов с ограниченной в худшем случае временной сложностью и линейным объемом памяти
Authors: Gasanov Elyar Eldarovich , Zubkov Andrei Mikhailovich , Klykova N V
Published: July 2016

Описаны и исследованы новые алгоритмы поиска идентичных объектов за не зависящее от объема базы данных число операций. Один из этих алгоритмов использует в среднем линейно зависящее от объема базы число ячеек памяти.
Предельные теоремы для числа успехов в случайных двоичных последовательностях со случайными вкраплениями
Authors: Selivanov Boris Ivanovich , Chistyakov Vladimir Pavlovich
Published: July 2016

Рассматривается последовательность случайных $(0,1)$-величин $ X_1, \ldots , X_n $, из которых $ \theta_n $ величин принимают значения 0 и 1 с вероятностью 1/2, а остальные принимают значение 1 с вероятностью $ p $ ($ 0 < p < 1, p \neq 1/2, \theta_n $ - случайная величина, принимающая значения $ 0, 1, \ldots , n $). В предположении, что $ n \to \infty $ и выполняются определенные условия, наложенные на величины $ p, \theta_n $ и $ X_k, k = 1, \ldots , n, $ получено несколько предельных теорем для суммы $ S_n = \sum_{k=1}^n X_k $. Результаты работы представляют интерес в связи с задачами стеганографии и статистического анализа последовательностей, генерируемых датчиками случайных чисел.
Работа выполнена при финансовой поддержке программы РАН «Современные проблемы теоретической математики».
Верхние оценки сложности и глубины формул для MOD-функций
Authors: Sergeev Igor Sergeevich
Published: July 2016

Получены новые верхние оценки сложности и глубины формул для некоторых MOD-функций (функций сложения $n$ одноразрядных чисел по модулю $m$). В частности, для глубины сложения $n$ чисел по модулю $3$ в стандартном базисе $\{ \wedge, \vee, \overline{\phantom{a}} \}$ получена оценка $2.8\log_2 n+O(1)$, для сложности сложения по модулю $5$ - оценка $O(n^{3.22})$ в том же базисе, для глубины сложения по модулю $7$ - оценка $2.93\log_2 n+O(1)$ в базисе всех бинарных булевых функций.
Работа выполнена при поддержке РФФИ, проект № 14-01-00671а.
О базисах замкнутых классов вектор-функций многозначной логики
Authors: Taimanov V A
Published: July 2016

Рассматривается функциональная система вектор-функций многозначной логики с естественным образом определенной операцией суперпозиции. Построены примеры замкнутых классов специального вида без базиса и со счeтным базисом.
Improving automated global detection of volcanic SO2 plumes using
the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)
Authors: Flower Verity J. B. , Oommen Thomas , Carn Simon A.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Volcanic eruptions pose an ever-present threat to human populations around the globe, but many active volcanoes remain poorly monitored. In regions where ground-based monitoring is present the effects of volcanic eruptions can be moderated through observational alerts to both local populations and service providers such as air traffic control. However, in regions where volcano monitoring is limited satellite-based remote sensing provides a global data source that can be utilised to provide near real time identification of volcanic activity. This paper details the development of an automated volcanic plume detection method utilizing daily, global observations of sulphur dioxide (SO2) by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) on NASA's Aura satellite. Following identification and classification of known volcanic eruptions in 2005–2009, the OMI SO2 data are analysed using a logistic regression analysis which permits the identification of volcanic events with an overall accuracy of over 80 %, and consistent plume identification when the volcanic plume SO2 loading exceeds ~ 400 tons. The accuracy and minimal user input requirements of the developed procedure provide a basis for the creation of an automated SO2 alert system providing volcanic alerts in regions where ground based volcano monitoring capabilities are limited. The technique could easily be adapted for use with satellite measurements of volcanic SO2 emissions from other platforms.
A method for retrieving clouds with satellite infrared radiances using the particle filter
Authors: Xu Dongmei , Auligné Thomas , Descombes Gaël , Synder Chris
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Ensemble-based techniques have been widely utilized in estimating uncertainties in various problems of interest in geophysical applications. A new cloud retrieval method is proposed based on the efficient Particle Filter (PF) in the framework of Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation system (GSI). The PF cloud retrieval method is compared with the Multivariate and Minimum Residual (MMR) method that was previously established and verified. Cloud retrieval experiments involving a variety of cloudy types are conducted with the PF and MMR methods respectively with measurements of Infrared radiances on multi-sensors onboard both geostationary and polar satellites. It is found that the retrieved cloud masks with both methods are consistent with other independent cloud products. MMR is prone to producing ambiguous small-fraction clouds, while PF detects clearer cloud signals, yielding closer heights of cloud top and cloud base to other references. More collections of small fraction particles are able to effectively estimate the semi-transparent high clouds. It is found that radiances with high spectral resolutions contribute to quantitative cloud top and cloud base retrievals. In addition, a different way of resolving the filtering problem over each model grid is tested to better aggregate the weights with all available sensors considered, which is proven to be less constrained by the ordering of sensors. Compared to the MMR method, the PF method is overall more computationally efficient, and the cost of the model grid-based PF method scales more directly with the number of computing nodes.
Hydrological recovery in two large forested watersheds of Southeastern China: importance of watershed property in determining hydrological responses to reforestation
Authors: Liu Wenfei , Wei Xiaohua , Li Qiang , Fan Houbao , Duan Honglang , Wu Jianping , Giles-Hansen Krysta , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Understanding hydrological responses to reforestation is an important subject in watershed management, particularly in large forested watersheds (> 1000 km2). In this study, we selected two large forested watersheds (Pingjiang and Xiangshui) located in the upper reach of the Poyang Lake watershed, Southeastern China (with an area of 3261.4 and 1458 km2, respectively) to assess the effects of large-scale reforestation on streamflow. Both watersheds have similar climate and experienced comparable and dramatic forest changes during the past decades, but with contrasted watershed properties (e.g., the topography is much steeper in Xiangshui than in Pingjiang), which provides us with a unique opportunity to compare the differences in hydrological recovery in two contrasted watersheds. Streamflow at different percentiles (e.g., 5 %, 10 %, 50 % and 95 %) were compared using a combination of statistical analysis with year-wise method for each watershed. The results showed that forest recovery had no significant effects on median flows (Q50 %) in both watersheds. However, reforestation significantly reduced high flows in Pingjiang, but had limited influence in Xiangshui. Similarly, reforestation had significant and positive effects on low flows (Q95 %) in Pingjiang, while it did not significantly change low flows in Xiangshui. Thus, hydrological recovery is limited and slower in the steeper Xiangshui watershed, highlighting that watershed property is also important for determining hydrological responses to reforestation. This finding has important implications for designing reforestation and watershed management strategies in the context of hydrological recovery.
Typhoon Haiyan's sedimentary record in coastal environments of the Philippines and its palaeotempestological implications
Authors: Brill Dominik , May Simon Matthias , Engel Max , Reyes Michelle , Pint Anna , Opitz Stephan , Dierick Manuel , Gonzalo Lia Anne , Esser Sascha , Brückner Helmut
Published: July 2016

Abstract. On November 8th 2013, category 5 Supertyphoon Haiyan made landfall on the Philippines. During a post-typhoon survey in February 2014 Haiyan-related sand deposition and morphological changes were documented at four severely affected sites with different exposure to the typhoon track, and different geological and geomorphological settings. Extended onshore sand sheets are restricted to coastal areas with significant inundation due to amplification of surge levels in embayments or due to accompanying long-wave phenomena at the most exposed coastlines of Leyte and Samar. However, localized washover fans with a storm-typical laminated stratigraphy occurred even along coasts with limited inundation due to waves overtopping or breaching coastal barriers. On a recent reef platform off Negros in the Visayan Sea, storm waves entrained coral rubble from the reef slope and formed a several 100 m long, intertidal coral ridge when breaking at the reef edge. As these sediments and landforms were generated by one of the strongest storms ever recorded, they not only provide a recent reference for typhoon signatures that can be used for palaeotempestological and palaeotsunami studies in the region, but might also function as a benchmark example for a general discrimination between storm and tsunami deposits. Even for sites with low topography and high inundation levels during Supertyphoon Haiyan, the landward extent of the documented sand sheets seems significantly smaller than typical sand sheets of large tsunamis. This criterion may potentially be used to distinguish both types of events.
Soil microbial biomass and function are altered by 12 years of crop rotation
Authors: McDaniel Marshall D. , Grandy A. Stuart
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Agriculture-driven declines in plant biodiversity reduce soil microbial biomass, alter microbial functions, and threaten the provisioning of soil ecosystem services. We examined whether increasing temporal plant biodiversity (by rotating crops) can partially reverse these trends and enhance microbial biomass and function. We quantified seasonal patterns in soil microbial biomass, respiration rates, extracellular enzyme activity, and catabolic potential three times over one growing season in a 12-year crop rotation study at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station LTER. Rotation treatments varied from one to five crops in a three-year rotation cycle, but all soils were sampled under corn to isolate historical rotation effects from current crop effects. Inorganic N, the stoichiometry of microbial biomass and dissolved organic C and N varied seasonally, likely reflecting fluctuations in soil resources during the growing season. Soils from biodiverse cropping systems increased microbial biomass C by 28–112 % and N by 18–58 % compared to monoculture corn. Rotations increased potential C mineralization by as much as 64 %, and potential N mineralization by 62 %, and both were related to substantially higher hydrolase and lower oxidase enzyme activities. The catabolic potential of the microbial community, assessed with community-level physiological profiling, showed that microbial communities in monoculture corn preferentially used simple substrates like carboxylic acids, relative to more diverse cropping systems. By isolating plant biodiversity from differences in fertilization and tillage, our study illustrates that crop biodiversity has overarching effects on soil microbial biomass and function that last throughout the growing season. In simplified agricultural systems, relatively small increases in plant biodiversity have a large impact on microbial community size and function.
Lime and zinc application influence soil zinc availability, dry
matter yield and zinc uptake by maize grown on Alfisols
Authors: Behera Sanjib K. , Shukla Arvind K. , Dwivedi Brahma S. , Lakaria Brij L.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Zinc (Zn) deficiency is widespread in all types of soils of world including acid soils affecting crop production and nutritional quality of edible plant parts. There is, however, limited information available regarding effects of lime and farmyard manure (FYM) addition on soil properties, phyto-available Zn by different extractants, dry matter yield, Zn concentration and uptake by maize (Zea mays L.). Green house pot experiments were carried out in two acid soils to study the effect of five levels of lime (0, 1/10 lime requirement (LR), 1/3 LR, 2/3 LR and LR), three levels of Zn concentration (0, 2.5 and 5.0 mg Zn kg−1 soil) and two levels of FYM (0 and 10 t ha−1) addition on soil pH, EC and OC content, phyto-available Zn in soil and dry matter yield, Zn concentration and uptake by maize plant grown up to 60 days. Application of lime and FYM improved soil pH. Increased level of lime application reduced Zn extracted by DTPA, Mehlich 1, Mehlich 3, 0.1 N HCl and ABDTPA extractants. However, application of FYM along with lime improved Zn extraction. The amount of Zn extracted by different extractants followed the order DTPA-Zn < ABDTPA-Zn < Mehlich-1 Zn < 0.1 M HCl. Lime rate of 1/3rd LR was found to be optimum as dry matter yield of maize increased significantly with lime application up to 1/3rd LR in soils of both the series and decreased subsequently. Addition of FYM with and without lime increased dry matter yield. Application of Zn up to 5.0 mg kg−1 to soil increased dry matter yield with and without FYM application in soils of Hariharapur series. Addition of higher doses of lime significantly reduced Zn concentration in maize crop grown in soils of both the series. Mean Zn uptake values were at par for no lime, 1/10th LR and 1/3rd LR with and without FYM application and it was significantly higher than Zn uptake by 2/3rd LR and LR treatments. However, FYM application improved Zn uptake by maize crop. Zn extracted by different extractants like DTPA, ABDTPA, Mehlich 1, Mehlich 3 and 0.1 M HCl was positively and significantly correlated amongst themselves and with dry matter yield, Zn concentration and Zn uptake by maize.
Soil organic carbon stocks in semi-arid West African drylands: implications for climate change adaptation and mitigation
Authors: Tondoh Jérôme Ebagnerin , Ouédraogo Issa , Bayala Jules , Tamene Lulseged , Sila Andrew , Vågen Tor-Gunnar , Kalinganiré Antoine
Published: July 2016

Abstract. In the West African drylands, SOC sequestration is seen as one of the prominent strategies to both enhance the resilience of agro-ecosystems and mitigate global greenhouse effects. However, there is a dearth of baseline data that impede the design of site-appropriate recommended management practices (RMPs) to improve and sustain SOC accrual. In this study, the Land Degradation Surveillance Framework (LDSF), a nested hierarchical sampling design was used to assess SOC and its spatial variability across the semi-arid zones of Ghana (Lambussie), Burkina Faso (Bondigui) and Mali (Finkolo). Soil samples were collected from three sites of 100 km2 stratified into 16 clusters and 160 plots and thereafter soil parameters were then analyzed using MIR spectroscopy. Regardless of soil strata, SOC storage with 95 % confidence level in semi-arid landscapes potentially ranged between 112 200 ± 14 000 and 253 000 ± 34 000 Mg C corresponding to 411 400 ± 51 333 Mg CO2-eq and 927 666.7 ± 124 666.7 Mg CO2-eq in the entire study area. On the other hand, investigation on the potential of climate change mitigation through SOC revealed contrasted figures as accumulation rates in cultivated lands ranged from 0.04 to 0.18 MgC ha−1 yr−1 and are balanced by higher depletion rates of −0.004 to −0.73 Mg ha−1 yr−1. This indicates the potential of semi-arid soils to store carbon through improved land management practices. Landscape study structured in cluster-level analysis revealed heterogeneity in the distribution of SOC stocks, a mandatory finer level analysis prior to effective decision-making about RMPs.
Higher Incidence of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) in Autistic Children and Their Potential Role in Exacerbation of Autistic Enterocolitis
Authors: Pulikkan Joby , Govindan Nadar Rajendra Kumar Mullur , Mohan Binoop , Pallipuram Joy Amitha Chirayath , Grace Tony
Published: July 2016

Based on the hypothesis that abnormal pathogens in the bowel can affect the brain and consequently can play a major role in the exacerbation of autistic symptoms, we have been in an attempt to detect and identify intimin gene producing microorganism Escherichia coli from stools of autistic children using culture-independent techniques. The presence of intimin gene was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specific primers. Sequence of the gene amplified after PCR matched to the sequence of intimin gene with 100% accuracy. EHEC strains are found to produce strong cytotoxins, the important virulence attribute of EHEC being the intimin protein encoded by eaeA gene. Hitherto deemphasized and played down its role in autistic children, the intimin gene was found in a significant number in the stools of children with autism compared to normal children. Our results,thus, show a high degree of prevalence of eaeA positive E. Coli in children with autism. A relevant question is if this greater prevalence of EHEC can be causative to the digestion problems observed in autism which may further affect brain and cognitive functions. In order to understand the role of intimin as a prospective candidate leading to cognitive dysfunctions, we had an in silico study on the effects of intimin on selected neurotransmitters which also showed a profound significance with all the docked conformations giving negative binding energy in the order serotonin, dopamine and acetyl choline.
DOENÇAS CARDIOVASCULARES: FATORES DE RISCO EM ADOLESCENTES
Authors: De Brito Bartira Bezerra , Leal Jéssica Denise Vieira , Formiga Laura Maria Feitosa , Frota Karoline De Macêdo Gonçalves , Da Silva Ana Roberta Vilarouca , Lima Luisa Helena de Oliveira
Published: July 2016

O objetivo do estudo foi investigar os fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares em adolescentes do município de Picos-Piauí. Estudo descritivo e transversal realizado com 151 adolescentes. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de agosto a outubro de 2013 nas escolas particulares. Os resultados evidenciaram que há presença de alterações na pressão arterial nos indivíduos do sexo masculino e feminino, 8,6% e 14,8%, respectivamente, com os valores entre os percentis 90 e 95, classificando como limítrofe. A maioria da amostra apresentou excesso de peso. O perfil lipídico estava alterado em boa parte da população estudada. Com base nesses achados, torna-se necessário a formulação de estratégias de prevenção para os adolescentes visando à promoção de estilos de vida saudáveis como dietas com baixa densidade energética e incremento na atividade física.
ADESÃO À HIGIENE DAS MÃOS: INTERVENÇÃO E AVALIAÇÃO
Authors: Trannin Karen Patricia Pena , Campanharo Cássia Regina Vancini , Lopes Maria Carolina Barbosa Teixeira , Okuno Meiry Fernanda Pinto , Batista Ruth Ester Assayag
Published: July 2016

Trata-se de pesquisa quantitativa, com os objetivos de observar a adesão à higiene das mãos por profissionais de saúde de um Serviço de Emergência de Hospital Universitário, no estado de São Paulo, e verificar se houve modificação na adesão após a realização de intervenção educativa, entre julho de 2012 e dezembro de 2013. Foram observadas e registradas 5061 oportunidades de higiene das mãos em 120 horas de observação. O maior número de oportunidades foi de profissionais de enfermagem (70,05%), por ser a maior força de trabalho e tender predominantemente à assistência; seguiram-se a equipe médica (17,82%) e fisioterapeutas (12,13%). Observou-se adesão de 28,6% para 38,9% após as ações educativas. Na fase pós-intervenção, todos os profissionais apresentaram maior adesão à higiene das mãos quando comparado ao período pré-intervenção e a adesão foi significativamente maior após a realização de procedimentos assépticos. Conclui-se que a higienização das mãos esteve aquém do esperado e que estratégias educativas favoreceram a adesão.
IMPACTO DA EXPOSIÇÃO AO AMIANTO NA SAÚDE DA POPULAÇÃO ADULTA: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Padilha Baran Fátima Denise , Garcia Paiano Lara Adrianne , Alves das Mercês Nen Nalú
Published: July 2016

Objetivou-se identificar o impacto da exposição ao amianto na saúde da população adulta, nas publicações científicas. Revisão Integrativa de literatura realizada em bases de dados na área da saúde no período de 2005 a 2015. Foram selecionados 15 estudos. Verificou-se o impacto da exposição ao amianto na população adulta com o adoecimento por mesotelioma maligno, asbestose, câncer de pulmão, entre outros; a mortalidade por mesotelioma em trabalhadores conferiu prevalência significativa para o estudo. A taxa mortalidade é preocupante, haja visto que as possibilidades terapêuticas são limitadas. O impacto do amianto ultrapassa os aspectos biológicos, trazendo alterações psicoemocionais significativas na saúde da população. Destaca-se a importância do debate sobre o impacto do amianto na saúde do adulto, principalmente no campo da saúde do trabalhador sobre a necessidade do banimento de seu uso nos países que o mantém em escala industrial e comercial.
Uma ideia de comunidade de segurança Brasil-Argentina: poder e interdependência na ordem global dos anos 1970-1980
Authors: Valim Magalhães Bruno
Published: July 2016

A partir do modelo de comunidades de segurança, avaliamos as forças conjunturais que levaram à inflexão das políticas exteriores e de segurança bilaterais brasileira e argentina entre os anos 1970 e 1980, propiciando o desenvolvimento de uma comunidade de segurança entre os dois. Nossas conclusões são que Brasil e Argentina já seriam uma comunidade de segurança nascente nos governos Sarney-Alfonsín.
As Regras do Jogo: Organização das Nações Unidas e Relações Centro-Periferia
Authors: Pinto Lemos da Silva Juliana
Published: July 2016

Este trabalho busca introduzir a investigação dos debates acerca da reforma da ONU e do Conselho de Segurança, à luz da investigação sobre as dinâmicas entre centro e periferia dentro da instituição. Os resultados mostram que as relações assimétricas entre países do centro e da periferia, que estão presentes no sistema internacional, também ocorrem no âmbito das Nações Unidas.
Atores Sociais na Política Externa Chilena: o Caso da Aliança do Pacífico
Authors: Teixeira Lisboa Marcelino
Published: July 2016

O texto investiga a participação de atores não governamentais no processo decisório da política externa chilena, na fase de tramitação e aprovação do tratado da Aliança do Pacífico no âmbito político institucional. Verificou-se a participação do empresariado, principalmente nas fases decisórias que concernem ao executivo. Na fase legislativa não houve a participação direta das entidades organizadas do empresariado, mas de think tanks ligados aos partidos políticos e instituições vinculadas à academia.
O Regime de Proteção à Propriedade Intelectual como Recurso de Poder nas Relações Internacionais
Authors: Gruszka Vendruscolo Stephanie
Published: July 2016

O objetivo do presente trabalho é analisar a propriedade intelectual e sua influência na distribuição de poder nas relações internacionais. Questiona-se se o discurso legitimador do regime internacional de proteção à propriedade intelectual produz os benefícios a que se propõe e quais foram as consequências de sua implementação. A análise de dados bibliográficos, bem como de estatísticas fornecidas pela Organização Mundial da Propriedade Intelectual (OMPI) nos ajudam a entender as implicações do regime e sua interferência nas relações de poder internacionais.
Teoria e prática políticas em Hegel: o problema da censura
Authors: D'Hondt Jacques
Published: July 2016

O artigo de Jacques D’Hondt analisa a teoria e a prática polìticas de Hegel, sobretudo a questão da censura. Trata-se de relevante estudo para uma apropriada leitura e compreensão crítico-filológica e histórica da filosofia hegeliana: do seu conceito de liberdade de imprensa (Pressefreiheit) ou de liberdade de comunicação pública (Freiheit der öffentlichen Mitteilung), relacionado com os seus conceitos de publicidade (Öffentlichkeit), opinião pública (öffentliche Meinung), cultura (Bildung), Estado (Staat), entre outros. Para apreender tais conceitos, cabe examiná-los nas circunstâncias em que foram expostos, a fim de evitar as interpretações equivocadas. Por meio de apropriada leitura histórica e crítico-filológica, podemos realizar a leitura hermenêutica, citando e analisando as interpretações existentes acerca da filosofia hegeliana, pois há uma disputa entre o que ele, a princípio, disse e aquilo que dizem que Hegel disse e/ou do que poderia ou deveria ter dito. Constitui uma análise importante, inclusive para as discussões atuais, por exemplo, sobre o papel do direito e/ou os limites à liberdade de expressão ou à imprensa livre e os diversos aspectos relacionados com a informação e com a formação da opinião pública. Por isso, o interesse de apresentar o texto em língua portuguesa. Com isso, outros intérpretes poderão examinar e fazer uma leitura crítica do citado artigo, analisando todos os seus aspectos positivos e, também, os limites de tal pesquisa.
Estatuto ontológico da contradição interna do Algo
Authors: Nakamura Emmanuel Zenryo Chaves
Published: July 2016

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o estatuto ontológico da noção de contradição interna na dialética do Algo e do Outro, presente no capítulo "O Ser-aí" da Ciência da Lógica de Hegel, ressaltando como essa dialética ressoa no capítulo "A Mercadoria" de Para a Crítica da Economia Política de Marx. A hipótese é que a "dessublimação da filosofia" operada por Marx não é estranha à Lógica hegeliana, estando em curso no seu próprio projeto.
O “Ser” do Homem como Possibilidade Angustiada Frente à Ação Subjetiva
Authors: E Silva Marcos Da Silva
Published: July 2016

A realidade do fenômeno se dá quando vai de encontro com outra realidade, podendo ser entendida como realidade fenomenologicamente compreensiva, dependendo do modo, e de como se interroga a própria realidade. Só vemos o que acreditamos que é possível compreender, assim, o fenômeno só é real na medida em que o compreendemos. Se não tivermos conhecimento de um objeto, como poderia - mos compreendê-lo? O problema é que colocamos muita consciência nos objetos, perdendo assim, a noção de sermos realidades objetivas, quando o que pode ser proposto é compreender a realidade através dos olhos da própria realidade, pois a realidade muda, mais o conceito de realidade não. Isso nos faz compreender que a existência real é muito mais que ela mesma, e o que a cerca, não esta separado, conjugada como o infinito do real e comungada por um gênio, figura exaltada pelo romantismo. Para os românticos, a realidade é um todo do qual é necessário aproximar-se, não analiticamente, mas de maneira a compreender-lhe a unidade. Assim, nós criamos possibilidades de realidades, na qual o fenômeno é dado por si mesmo, e pode ser concebível que toda realidade, e a realidade dos seres são uma grande confusão, da qual não compreendemos que é ao mesmo tempo uma possibilidade, como fala Kierkegaard: Digo portanto que existe tudo o que possui por natureza a possibilidade de fazer uma coisa qualquer ou de sofrer uma ação [...]. E é por isso que coloco essa definição: os seres não são nada além de possibilidades. (LE BLANC, 1998, apud KIERKEGAARD, 1813: sofista, 247e.). Assim, frente ao mundo de possibilidades há sempre um confronto coma multiplicidade. De fato a multiplicidade distancia o homem daquilo que lhe é mais inerente, a condição do ser do homem não é simplesmente epistemico, mais sim a de entender o que esta a sua frente como escolha. A partir de 1800, o "ser" não é simplesmente um problema do pensamento, passando a ser um problema para uma filosofia da existenz2 como nos indica Hannah Arendt (1906: 15) "O termo "existenz" indica, em primeiro lugar, nada mais do que o ser do homem, independentemente de todas as qualidades e capacidades que possam ser investigadas". (ARENDT , 1906: 15). O mundo do "ser" é agora o mundo das "possibilidades infinitas". O possível é a condição metafísica do existir, do que é; como nos afirma Hannah Arendt (1906: 19): "o Homem chega à consciência de que ele é dependente – não de algo em particular, nem de alguma Limitação em geral, mas de fato do que é". ( ARENDT ,1906: 19). Pressuposto que um puro ser é impossível de conhecer. O "ser", é sempre um espaço vazio, que é constituído por possibilidade de poder ser, quando completado por outro. O que faz o "ser" ser, entendido em seu sentido ontológico não é o próprio "ser": o que o faz é o ecoar sobre a possibilidade, a consciência do ser-ai, é a de que estamos avançando no tempo, de fato as possibilidades do "ser" são muitas em uma só, pois é atemporal, uma conjunção de tempo e ação para "incorporação".
EDUCAÇÃO E SAÚDE: REPRESENTAÇÕES SOCIAIS DE ESTUDANTES DO ENSINO MÉDIO ACERCA DAS DOENÇAS SEXUALMENTE TRANSMISSÍVEIS T
Authors: Castro Talita Candida
Published: July 2016

Este artigo consiste em um relato de experiência de um trabalho que se dedicou à investigação das representações sociais (RS) de adolescentes, estudantes do ensino médio de um colégio estadual da região metropolitana de Curitiba - Paraná, acerca das Doenças Sexualmente Transmissíveis (DST). Utilizou-se de abordagem qualitativa e análise categorial proposta por Bardin (2004) para a análise dos resultados. Identificou-se que as RS dos adolescentes sobre as DST estiveram predominantemente relacionadas ao aspecto biomédico. No âmbito das formas de transmissão, os principais apontamentos relacionaramse ao uso de camisinha/proteção/preservativo. A AIDS foi a doença mais lembrada pelosparticipantes quando questionados sobre qual seria a pior DST, assim como quandosolicitada a citação de exemplos de seu conhecimento.
Editorial
Authors: Quadros Diomar Augusto de
Published: July 2016

Para oferecer uma revista com qualidade que atenda as expectativas dos seus leitores, estamos em fase de reestruturação e organização interna. Contudo, a equipe trabalhou para ter a satisfação de apresentar o volume “oito”, número “um” da Revista Divers@!.