bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High frequency of Q318X mutation in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency in northeast Brazil
Authors: Campos Viviane C. , Pereira Rossana M. C. , Torres Natália , Castro Margaret de , Aguiar-Oliveira Manuel H.
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVES: Deficiency of 21-hydroxylase is the most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH-21OH). The aim of this study was to determine, by allele-specific PCR, the frequency of microconversions of the CYP21A2, in sixteen patients with the classical forms and in 5 patients with the nonclassical (NC) form of CAH-21OH and correlate genotype with phenotype. METHODS: Genotypes were classified into 3 mutation groups (A, B and C), based on the degree of enzymatic activity. Screening for 7 microconversions by allele-specific PCR diagnosed 74.3% (n=26) of the 35 unrelated alleles. RESULTS: The most frequent mutations were Q318X (25.7%), V281L (17.1%), I2 Splice (14.3%), I172N (14.3%), and R356W (14.3%). Genotype was identified in 57.1% of the patients. We observed correlation between genotype and phenotype in 91.7% of the cases. CONCLUSION: The highest frequency for Q318X (25.7%) when compared to other studies may reflect individual sample variations in this Northeastern population.
Efeitos da maturação sexual na composição corporal, nos dermatóglifos, no somatótipo e nas qualidades físicas básicas de adolescentes
Authors: Linhares Renato Vidal , Matta Marcelo de Oliveira , Lima Jorge R. P. , Dantas Paulo M. Silva , Costa Mônica Barros , Fernandes Filho José
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVOS: Descrever como se comportam a composição corporal, o somatótipo, as qualidades físicas básicas, os dermatóglifos e a idade óssea, nos diversos estágios de maturação sexual. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo transversal envolvendo 136 meninos, na faixa etária de 10 a 14 anos, e realizados exame clínico, avaliação física e radiografias de mãos e punhos para avaliação de idade óssea. RESULTADOS: Encontraram-se tendência de aumento de estatura, massa corporal total, índice de massa corporal, idade óssea, diâmetros ósseos, circunferências musculares e qualidades físicas básicas, com o avançar da puberdade. Não se observaram diferenças nos dermatóglifos e no somatótipo, entre os estágios puberais. CONCLUSÕES: Por causa das mudanças em importantes parâmetros para o treinamento físico, durante a puberdade, a seleção de crianças e adolescentes para a atividade desportiva não deve se fundamentar apenas na idade cronológica, mas, sobretudo, na maturação sexual, visando a melhor avaliação física e o treinamento apropriado para essa população.
A iodúria de pacientes portadores de tireopatias autoimunes em Santo andré, SP, é comparável à dos indivíduos normais e estável nos últimos dez anos
Authors: Marino Maria Angela Zaccarelli , Martins Lourdes Conceição , Esteves Roberto Z. , Kasamatsu Teresa S. , Maciel Rui M. B.
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se o aumento de iodo na dieta seria o fator desencadeante de tireopatias autoimunes na cidade de Santo André, SP. MÉTODOS: Determinou-se a iodúria em amostra isolada de 58 pacientes, divididos em quatro grupos e de 13 indivíduos normais (controles). RESULTADOS: Iodúria: grupo 1 - hipertireoidismo = 203,5 ± 152,71 µg/L (média ± DP); grupo 2 hipotireoidismo = 258,31 ± 148,2 µg/L; grupo 3 - tireodite crônica autoimune = 244,29 ± 191,6 µg/L; grupo 4 - amiodarona = 1.157,5 ± 261,8 µg/L; grupo 5 - controles = 262,31 ± 146,2 µg/L. Comparadas as médias da iodúria entre os cinco grupos, dos grupos 1, 2, 3 e 5 não apresentaram diferenças significantes (p > 0,05) e todos diferiram do grupo 4 (p < 0,05). A iodúria dos grupos 1, 2, 3 e 5, obtida em 2002 e 2003, não diferiram dos valores determinados em 1994 em escolares em Santo André. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo evidencia que o iodo não deve ser considerado o agente responsável pelas tireopatias autoimunes em Santo André, e outros fatores ambientais devem ser investigados.
Influência da adubação nas características dos agregados do solo da série Chapadão (Latossolo Roxo)
Authors: Grohmann Francisco , Oliveira J. Bertoldo de , Queiroz Neto José Pereira de
Published: April 2009

Amostras de solo foram colhidas de parcelas de um ensaio de adubação de milho tratadas com estêrco, calcário e adubação mineral. Os agregados das amostras foram separados em classes de tamanho, e feitas as determinações: análise granulométrica, pH, C e N totais, Ca++ Mg++ e K+ trocáveis e capacidade de troca de cations. Tôdas as amostras tiveram comportamento análogo: as porcentagens de argila diminuiram progressivamente dos agregados maiores até a classe de tamanho 1-0,5 mm, aumentando, a seguir, até atingir seu valor máximo na fração menor que 0,105 mm. Os autores estudaram a influência dos diversos tipos de adubação sôbre as características dos agregados.
Determinação de cálcio e magnésio pelo EDTA em extratos ácidos de solos
Authors: Raij Bernardo van
Published: April 2009

Foi estudada marcha analítica para determinação de cálcio e magnésio, pelo EDTA, em soluções que continham também ferro, alumínio, manganês e cobre. Para extratos ácidos de solos, é proposta uma marcha analítica com as seguintes etapas: separação de ferro, alumínio e manganês, por precipitação em meio amoniacal, em presença de água oxigenada; titulação do cálcio com solução de EDTA a um pH maior que 12, empregando como indicador a murexida; destruição da murexida por acidificação e aquecimento; complexação do cobre com o dietilditiocarbamato de sódio e determinação do magnésio pela solução de EDTA, a pH 10, com o indicador preto de eriocromo T.
Variedades de cana-de-açúcar: VI - Experiências de época de corte para o Estado de São Paulo (1959-1961)
Authors: Segalla A. L. , Oliveira H. de , Ometto J. C.
Published: April 2009

São apresentados resultados obtidos de uma série de experiências efetuadas em 1959/61, com a finalidade de determinar a melhor época de corte, considerando a riqueza em açúcar e a brotação das soqueiras, para diferentes variedades cultivadas no Estado de São Paulo. Para este estudo foram. plantadas, em fevereiro-março, em sete usinas, compreendendo vários tipos de solo, 17 variedades de cana. Foram estudadas quatro épocas de corte, a saber: 1.° de junho, 20 de julho, 10 de setembro e 30 de outubro, e cada bloco cortado em uma dessas épocas. Foram feitos dois cortes (cana-planta e soca), nas épocas determinadas, com intervalo de 12 meses do primeiro para o segundo corte. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a época de corte não influiu na produção de cana. Notou-se diferença entre variedades e localidades. Quanto à riqueza em açúcar, houve diferença entre variedades e épocas de corte. Não se observou diferença entre localidades. A riqueza em açúcar das variedades aumentou até a terceira época, estabilizando-se ou decrescendo na quarta, com exceção das variedades Co 301 e CB 40/35, nas quais ainda aumentou. Em função da riqueza apresentada nas diferentes épocas pelas variedades, foram elas classificadas em três grupos, para serem cortadas no inicio, no meio e no fim da safra.
Incidência de cárie dentária em adolescentes em município do Nordeste brasileiro, 2006
Authors: Noro Luiz Roberto Augusto , Roncalli Angelo Giuseppe , Mendes Júnior Francisco Ivan Rodrigues , Lima Kenio Costa
Published: April 2009

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a incidência da cárie dentária em adolescentes associada à condição sócio-econômica, acesso a serviços e autopercepção. É um estudo longitudinal por meio de levantamento epidemiológico de cárie e questionário estruturado com amostra composta por 688 adolescentes residentes no Município de Sobral, Ceará, Brasil. A incidência aumentou progressivamente com a idade, passando de 1,60 nos adolescentes com 12 anos até 2,28 para os com 15 anos, registrando-se uma incidência média de 1,86 dentes cariados por adolescente. Entre as variáveis estudadas, dor de dente nos últimos seis meses [RR = 1,46 (1,22-1,76)], merenda escolar [RR = 1,45 (1,21-1,74)], freqüência de consulta ao dentista [RR = 1,48 (1,33-1,79)] e acesso à unidade de saúde [RR = 1,21 (1,01-1,45)], ajustadas por morbidade referida apresentaram relação com a alta incidência de cárie. É fundamental que gestores e profissionais de saúde formulem políticas públicas que não se restrinjam a aspectos como atendimento clínico e prevenção de doenças, estimulando a população na luta pela conquista por melhores condições de vida, viabilizando eqüidade no acesso aos serviços e desenvolvendo uma gestão coletiva das ações de saúde.
Política de saúde e gestão no processo de (re)construção do SUS em município de grande porte: um estudo de caso de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Pinto Nicanor R. S. , Tanaka Oswaldo Yoshimi , Spedo Sandra Maria
Published: April 2009

O processo de (re)construção do SUS no Município de São Paulo, Brasil, foi analisado, no período de 2001- 2008, por meio de estudo de caso, utilizando-se distintas fontes: documentos; entrevistas com informantes-chave e observação participante. Os conceitos de política de saúde e de gestão em saúde foram utilizados na qualidade de categorias analíticas. Foram selecionadas e analisadas apenas políticas priorizadas pela gestão iniciada em 2001 e que tiveram sustentação até 2008. Discutem-se desafios para a (re)construção do SUS no município relacionados com o contexto político-institucional e com mudanças de estrutura implementadas. As reorganizações da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de São Paulo propiciaram a constituição e manutenção de dois subsistemas municipais, um hospitalar e outro ambulatorial. Negociações entre os governos municipal, estadual e federal não avançaram para que o município assumisse a gestão de fato de todo sistema de saúde, constatando-se a coexistência de três subsistemas públicos de saúde paralelos: dois municipais e um estadual. A sustentação política do Programa Saúde da Família foi associada ao fato de que esse programa não se constituiu como marca da primeira gestão municipal e, ainda, de ser política prioritária e estimulada pelo governo federal.
Influence of boundary conditions on the Southern Hemisphere atmospheric circulation during the last glacial maximum
Authors: Justino F. , Souza E. , Amorim M. C. , Dias P. L. Silva , Lemos C. F.
Published: April 2009

Based upon coupled climate simulations driven by present day and glacial boundary conditions, we demonstrate that although the ice sheet topography modifications during the glacial period are primarily placed in the Northern Hemisphere (NH), a climate simulation that employs the ICE-5G glacial topography delivers significantly enhanced climate anomalies in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) as well. These conditions, in association with climate anomalies produced by the modification of the atmospheric CO² concentration characteristic of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) interval, are shown to be the primary forcing of the SH climate during this epoch. Climate anomalies up to -6°C over the Antarctic region and -4°C over South America are predicted to occur in respect to present day conditions. Accompanying the SH cooling in the LGM simulation there exists a remarkable reduction in the specific humidity, which in turn enforces the overall Southern Hemisphere cooling due to the weaker greenhouse capacity of the dry atmosphere.
Tamanho de amostra de caracteres de genótipos de soja
Authors: Cargnelutti Filho Alberto , Evangelista Dilson Henrique Ramos , Gonçalves Elaine Cristine Piffer , Storck Lindolfo
Published: April 2009

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar o tamanho de amostra necessária para avaliar caracteres de genótipos de soja (Glycine max L.) e verificar a variabilidade do tamanho de amostra entre genótipos e entre experimentos. Para tanto, 28 genótipos de soja foram avaliados em cinco experimentos conduzidos em Jaboticabal, Estado de São Paulo (latitude 21°15'22"S, longitude 48°18'18" W e 595m de altitude), nos anos agrícolas de 2002 a 2005. Foi utilizado o delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com três repetições, e foram avaliados os caracteres altura de planta na maturação e de inserção de primeira vagem, número de nós por planta, de ramos por planta e de vagens por planta em seis plantas amostradas aleatoriamente na parcela. Há variabilidade da estimativa do tamanho de amostra entre genótipos quanto ao número de nós por planta e entre experimentos quanto à altura de planta na maturação, ao número de nós por planta, de ramos por planta e de vagens por planta. Para melhorar a precisão da avaliação de caracteres em plantas de soja, deve-se usar maior número de repetições e, pelo menos, 12 plantas por unidade experimental.
Produção e qualidade do morangueiro em sistemas fechados de cultivo sem solo com emprego de substratos
Authors: Godoi Rodrigo dos Santos , Andriolo Jerônimo Luiz , Franquéz Gustavo Gimenez , Jänisch Djeimi Isabel , Cardoso Francieli Lima , Vaz Marcos André Braz
Published: April 2009

O objetivo do trabalho foi determinar o crescimento, a produção e a qualidade das frutas do morangueiro cultivado em três sistemas fechados sem solo e com dois substratos. Os sistemas foram testados no interior de um abrigo telado, no Departamento de Fitotecnia da UFSM, no período entre 27 de abril e 21 de novembro de 2006. Esses sistemas foram constituídos por sacolas fertirrigadas por tubos gotejadores e calhas e leito de cultivo fertirrigados por subirrigação. Foram empregados substrato orgânico Plantmax PXT® e areia. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi um fatorial 3 x 2, com quatro repetições. A fertirrigação foi feita com solução nutritiva completa, sem nenhum descarte durante todo o período experimental, e as frutas foram colhidas maduras. Foram determinados os seguintes parâmetros: a produção, a firmeza, a acidez e o teor de sólidos solúveis totais. Interações significativas entre os sistemas e os substratos foram observadas. Na areia, destacou-se o cultivo nas calhas, com produção de 1017,4g planta-1, sendo 8,13% e 8,33% superior às sacolas e ao leito de cultivo, respectivamente. A produção mais elevada foi de 1196,5g planta-1, obtida com substrato orgânico no leito de cultivo, superior às sacolas em 10,9% e às calhas em 29,33%. Concluiu-se que o cultivo sem solo do morangueiro sem descartes de solução nutritiva é possível e que a produção é influenciada pelo sistema de cultivo e pelo substrato, sem efeitos sobre a qualidade das frutas.
A percepção de justiça como antecedente do comprometimento organizacional: um estudo luso-brasileiro
Authors: Rego Arménio , Souto Solange
Published: April 2009

O estudo visa mostrar como as percepções de justiça explicam o comprometimento organizacional (afetivo, normativo e instrumental). Inquiriram-se 229 membros de organizações brasileiras e 236 de organizações portuguesas. Os dados sugerem o seguinte: (1) o modelo de quatro dimensões de justiça (distributiva, procedimental, interpessoal e informacional) denota valia psicométrica superior ao de três dimensões, no qual as vertentes interpessoal e informacional são agrupadas numa mesma dimensão interaccional; (2) as percepções de justiça explicam entre 23% (Portugal) e 28% (Brasil) do comprometimento afetivo, entre 15% (Brasil) e 37% (Portugal) do normativo, e entre 1% (Brasil) e 6% (Portugal) do instrumental; (3) as vertentes de justiça mais pertinentes para a explicação do laço afetivo são a procedimental e a interpessoal; (4) o laço normativo tende a ser explicado pelas facetas distributiva, procedimental e informacional da justiça; (5) globalmente, quando se sentem tratadas com justiça, as pessoas tendem a denotar mais fortes laços afetivos e normativos, e menores índices de comprometimento instrumental; (6) estas tendências são, em geral, aplicáveis às duas amostras; (7) a compreensão do comprometimento organizacional é mais proveitosa quando se estudam os diferentes modos como as pessoas combinam os laços afetivo, normativo e instrumental. O estudo ajuda a compreender as razões pelas quais as pessoas se comprometem psicologicamente com as suas organizações. Seu valor torna-se maior pelo fato de combinar dados de duas culturas diferentes.
Características do processo decisório na cooperação empresa-universidade
Authors: Porto Geciane Silveira
Published: April 2009

Esta pesquisa teve por objetivo discutir o comportamento do decisor e as características da decisão de desenvolvimento tecnológico por meio da cooperação empresa - universidade. Com este propósito o artigo apresenta o referencial teórico a partir do qual foram definidas 4 hipóteses que foram testadas, por meio de pesquisa empírica, que foi realizada junto a 128 empresas intensivas em tecnologia, utilizando-se testes de diferença de médias e análise fatorial. Foram pesquisadas, tanto as 69 empresas intensivas em tecnologia que decidiram favoravelmente à cooperação quanto as 59 empresas que optaram em não cooperar com a universidade como mecanismo de alcançar o seu desenvolvimento tecnológico. Os resultados são expostos e discutidos em três tópicos: a) decisão de cooperação; b) a estrutura de decisão; e c) as incertezas do processo decisório. A penúltima seção contém as considerações finais.
Crescimento, dominância continuada e declínio da empresa: insights das histórias da General Electric e da Westinghouse
Authors: Fleck Denise L.
Published: April 2009

Este artigo compara as trajetórias de crescimento da General Electric e da Westinghouse por mais de doze décadas. Enquanto a General Electric desfrutou crescimento e existência continuados, a Westinghouse cresceu, mas também sofreu contração por três décadas e desapareceu após 110 anos de existência. A análise comparativa revelou que, afora as capacitações comparáveis no desenvolvimento de alta tecnologia, as duas empresas diferiam em vários aspectos. Elas desempenharam papéis desiguais na estruturação do setor elétrico e enfrentaram os desafios do aumento do tamanho de maneiras bem distintas. A análise histórica indica que a General Electric tendeu a desenvolver capacitações gerenciais que aumentaram suas chances de perpetuar-se. Já a Westinghouse, durante a maior parte do tempo, desenvolveu propensão à autodestruição.
Developing Multiple Literacies in a Website Project
Authors: Spence Lucy K.
Published: April 2009

Jacky, an 11‐year‐old biliterate Latina, was the subject of this case study. She used her home funds of knowledge to become computer literate through the development of a website focused on Mexican heritage. The website, created via funds of knowledge drawn from the community, in turn involved families and the local community in computer technology.

كانت جاكي وهي فتاة مزدوجة اللغة في الحادية عشر من عمرها موضوع حالة دراسية وهي استخدمت خزانة بيتها العلمية كي تتعلم كيفية استخدام الحاسوب من خلال تطوير موقع على الشبكة العالمية مركزة على التراث المكسيكي. وقد تم خلق الموقع بواسطة خزانة العلم المأخوذ من المجتمع وبالتالي دعا هذا العمل العائلات والمجتمع المحلي إلى أن يشاركوا في تقنية الحاسوب.

本个案研究的对象是积琪，她是一名具有两种语文读写能力的拉丁美洲裔中学十一年级学生。她利用家庭中的丰富知识，并透过发展一个以墨西哥文化遗产为主题的网站，学会了使用计算机的技巧。该网站首先是凭借来自社区的丰富知识所创制而成，其后再引起家庭和地方社区对计算机科技的参与。

Jacky, onze ans, bilingue latino‐américaine est le sujet de cette étude de cas. Elle a utilisé le fonds de connaissances disponibles dans sa famille pour développer des compétences en informatique en construisant un site web consacré à l'héritage mexicain. Ce site, créé grâce au fonds de connaissances tirées de la communauté, a à son tour impliqué les familles et la communauté locale dans la technologie informatique.

Объектом этого исследования была Джекки, одиннадцатилетняя двуязычная девочка латиноамериканского происхождения. Она использовала знания, полученные в семье, и овладев компьютером, создала собственный вебсайт, посвященный наследию предков‐мексиканцев. Этот сайт, основанный на информации из этнической группы, к которой принадлежит семья девочки, в свою очередь привлек соседей и других членов местного сообщества к компьютерным технологиям.

Jacky, una latina de once años que es competente en ambos idiomas es el tema de este estudio. Ella usó sus conocimientos caseros para aprender a usar la computadora al desarrollar una página en la red sobre su herencia mexicana. La página en la red, creada usando el conocimiento de la comunidad, a su vez, involucró a las familias y la comunidad local en la tecnología informática.
Write Soon!
Authors: Rasinski Timothy , Padak Nancy
Published: April 2009

This article explores the possibilities of using natural writing opportunities that occur in family life to nurture children's literacy development. From notes to lists to journals to parodies, families can use writing to nurture personal relationships and simultaneously improve literacy. Specific tips for teachers to share with parents in making writing a part of family life are included in the article.

تستكشف هذه المقالة احتمالات استخدام فرص الكتابة الطبيعية التي تحدث في الحياة العائلية لتنشئة نمو التعلم لدى الأطفال. إذ تستطيع العائلات أن تستخدم الكتابة على اختلاف أنواعها من الملاحظات إلى القائمات إلى اليوميات لتنشئة العلاقات الشخصية التي تحسن بدورها معرفة القراءة والكتابة. وتشتمل هذه المقالة أيضاً على اقتراحات معينة للمعلمين كي يشتركوا مع الوالدين في جعل الكتابة جزءاً من حياة العائلة.

本文探索利用在家庭生活中自然出现的写作机会以培育儿童读写能力发展的可能性。从备忘录、清单、日记，以至滑稽性模仿诗文作品等，家庭可利用写作来培育儿童的人际关系和同时改进他们的读写能力。本文更为教师提供一些与家长分享如何把写作成为家庭生活的一部分的特别要诀。

Cet article explore les possibilités d'utiliser les occasions naturelles d'écriture qui se produisent dans la vie familiale pour nourrir le développement de la lecture‐écriture chez les enfants. Des notes aux listes aux journaux et aux pastiches, les familles peuvent utiliser l'écriture pour nourrir les relations personnelles et développer simultanément la lecture‐écriture. On ajoute dans cet article des conseils particuliers à l'intention des enseignants à partager avec les parents de façon à ce que l'écriture devienne une partie intégrante de la vie familiale.

В статье исследуются возможности использования естественных семейных ситуаций для развития у детей навыков письма. Можно писать все – памятки, списки покупок, дневники, пародии, – укрепляя личные отношения и одновременно совершенствуя грамотность. Авторы предлагают ряд советов, которыми учителя могут поделиться с родителями, чтобы те смогли сделать письмо органической частью жизни своей семьи.

Este artículo explora las posibilidades de usar oportunidades para escribir que se presentan automáticamente en el diario vivir de la familia para fomentar el desarrollo del uso del lenguaje en los niños. Ya sea por medio de notas, listas, diarios o parodias, las familias pueden usar la escritura para fomentar las relaciones personales al mismo tiempo que mejoran sus competencias ligüísticas. En este artículo se incluyen consejos específicos que los maestros pueden compartir con los padres para hacer de la escritura una parte integral de la vida familiar.
Interplay between polypyrimidine tract binding protein-associated splicing factor and human myometrial progesterone receptors
Authors: Tyson-Capper A J , Shiells E A , Robson S C
Published: April 2009

The precise molecular mechanisms controlling progesterone receptor (PR)-mediated gene regulation within the human myometrium in pregnancy and in labour remain poorly defined. PR recruit different nuclear co-activators/co-repressors to mediate receptor-specific transcription regulation and expression of PR, and these co-factors may alter within the myometrium during pregnancy and labour. The aims of this study were to test the hypotheses that i) the human splicing and transcription factor, polypyrimidine tract binding protein-associated splicing factor (PSF), is spatially and temporally regulated in the myometrium during pregnancy and labour; ii) PSF influences the expression of myometrial PR and iii) the action of PR in regulating specific hormone response target genes in the human myometrium may involve PSF. Immunoblotting indicated that PSF expression is significantly up-regulated within the human myometrium as pregnancy progresses, in particular within the upper uterine region, and levels remain elevated in labour. Co-immunoprecipitations and DNA-binding assays show that PSF directly interacts with nuclear PR and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and specific co-regulatory proteins, all of which have defined roles as co-activators or co-repressors in gene regulation. Over-expression and inhibition of PSF by transient transfection and RNAi respectively alters expression of myometrial PR and GR and may influence expression of two PR/GR-target genes, cyclooxygenase-2 and histone deacetylase-2. These findings are suggestive of a role for myometrial PSF as a nuclear co-regulator in the regulation of specific hormone receptor genes and their target hormone response genes.
Establishing an energy balance for crop-based digestion
Authors: Salter A. , Banks C. J.
Published: April 2009

The paper examines methods for calculating energy surpluses through anaerobic digestion and gives some examples of the practical application of these in crop-based systems. The surplus energy is the balance between that produced as a usable energy source and that used in crop production, conversion of the biomass into biogas, and conversion of biogas into a usable form: these are the direct energy inputs. The energy balance also takes into account the embedded energy used in the construction of machinery and buildings and for their repair and maintenance: the indirect energy inputs. The area of land available for fuel production is finite and therefore the energy yield is best considered on a per hectare basis. This allows comparison of energy conversion efficiency where the biomass yield for that area may vary depending on a range of inputs, e.g. rate of fertiliser application or irrigation requirements. It also allows direct comparison between different crop species or varieties within a single species. For an accurate energy balance analysis direct and indirect energy requirements have to be established for all the stages in the crop-based energy production cycle.
Subgrouping in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Based on Actigraphy and Illness Severity
Authors: Zaturenskaya Mariya , A. Jason Leonard , Torres-Harding Susan , W. Tryon Warren
Published: April 2009

Participants with chronic fatigue syndrome were categorized into subtypes based on actigraphy and illness selfreport
symptom severity data. Each method identified two groups of patients, one with severe and one with less severe
manifestations of the illness. For both subtypes, those in the more severe category had more physical functioning
problems than those in the less severe categories. However, for the illness self-report symptom group, those in the more
severe category had significantly more impairment in sleep, anxiety, depression, and pain, and more concurrent
psychiatric status and Fibromyalgia than those in the less severe category. In contrast, those in the more severe actigraphy
subtype group in comparison to the less severe group had more impairment in quality of life and cortisol readings. These
findings suggest that CFS subtypes based on symptom severity and amount of activity identify different groups of patients
with varying types of impairments.
Evaluation of Oral Mucosal Lesions in 598 Referred Iranian Patients
Authors: Jahanbani Jahanfar , Sandvik Leiv , Lyberg Torstein , Ahlfors Eva
Published: April 2009

The mucosal membrane of the oral cavity displays at times classical developmental lesions considered to be variations of normal structures rather than having disease characteristics. Of these lesions leukoedema, Fordyce granules, geographic-, fissured- and hairy tongue, median rhomboid glossitis and lingual varices were studied in 598 patients referred to the School of Dentistry, Tehran, Iran. The prevalence was studied in relation to age, gender, occupation, education, smoking habits, general health, addictions and or drug therapies. Oral developmental lesions were seen in 295 patients (49.3%). Only Fordyce granules (27,9%), fissured tongue (12,9%), leukoedema (12,5%) and hairy tongue (8,9%) had enough cases for statistical analysis. Three of these lesions increased with age but not fissured tongue. All were more common in men. After adjusting for age, the parameters education, occupation and complaints upon referral had little influence on the prevalence of the lesions. Fewer Fordyce granules were seen in oral mucosa of smoking men. Leukoedema and hairy tongue were significantly associated with smoking, leukoedema with diabetes mellitus. We conclude that there was a highly significant association between these oral lesions and age, gender and smoking. Few significant associations were found between oral lesions and general diseases.
Disparity in Utilization of Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators in Treatment of Heart Failure based on Sex and Race
Authors: Steiner Hillel A , Miller John M
Published: April 2009

Evaluation of: Hernandez AF, Fonarow GC, Lang L et al.: Sex and racial differences in the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators among patients hospitalized with heart failure. JAMA298(13), 1525–1532 (2007) [ 1 ]. Disparity of utilization of proven therapies for treatment of cardiac disease according to gender and ethnicity has been well documented in various aspects of cardiac care. Implanted cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) are devices that have been proven to prevent sudden cardiac death. This retrospective study examined ICD use in heart-failure patients who had an indication for ICD implantation, from the “Get with the Guidelines” program. The patients were stratified by gender and ethnicity (Black vs White). The overall rate of utilization (or intention for utilization) of ICDs was 35%, while among women and Black people the rate was significantly lower, at 27 and 23%, respectively, with the lowest rate being for Black women (28%). These findings suggest a bias against implantation of such devices in women and Black people, which is not explained by clinical variables.
Role of Estrogen in Liver Cancer
Authors: Villa Erica
Published: April 2009

Liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and despite increasing implementation of ultrasonographic surveillance strategies, its incidence is rising, especially in western countries. A universal characteristic of hepatocellular carcinoma is the striking male prevalence that is found, with few exceptions, both in animals and in humans. Many different hypotheses have been put forward in an attempt to explain this finding, which is not a simple epidemiological oddity but could also have pathogenetic implications. An obvious trail to follow, as gender susceptibility is implicated, is the role played by sex hormones, namely estrogens. Estrogens are not simply involved in reproductive mechanisms; instead, it is increasingly evident that they have a role in such an enormous variety of cellular processes that their implication in liver carcinogenesis may be manifold. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the available data, with a special focus on the hormonal mechanisms potentially implicated in the development of liver cancer.
Monitoring Changes in Bone Density
Authors: Bonnick Sydney Lou
Published: April 2009

The relationship between declining bone density and increasing fracture risk is firmly established; the relationship between increasing bone density and decreasing fracture risk is less clear. Because of this, the clinical utility of assessing the therapeutic efficacy of prescription therapies to reduce fracture risk by measuring changes in bone density has been called into question. However, there is substantial clinical trial data to support this approach. Nevertheless, an apparent increase or decrease in the bone density may be misinterpreted without an understanding of the statistical concepts of precision and least significant change. These concepts are not difficult and are of profound clinical importance. If the least significant change is not known, serial measurements of bone density cannot be interpreted. These concepts will be discussed and illustrated, and the rationale for the importance of changes in bone mineral density on therapy will be explored.
THE IMPACT OF GENDER, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION ON PERFORMANCE ON PURSUIT ROTOR
Authors: Baroun Khader
Published: April 2009

In this study the impact of gender, levels of anxiety, and depression on pursuit rotor performance task was investigated. The participants were 292 undergraduate students (171 men and 121 women) of Kuwait University, Kuwait. They completed an anxiety scale, depression scale, and 4 speed
levels of pursuit rotor. They were divided into 3 groups (low, middle, and high anxiety and depression) based on their scores on the Kuwait University Anxiety Scale (KUAS; Abdel-Khalek, 2000) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II; Beck, Ward, Mendelson, Mock, & Erbaugh, 1961). The
results revealed that groups of men with low levels of anxiety, and high level of depression showed significant increment in performance and had more time on target than the other groups in all 4 speed sessions, whereas women displayed less time on target of pursuit rotor.
EFFECTS OF GROUP GOAL AND RESOURCE VALENCE ON ALLOCATION PREFERENCES IN PUBLIC GOOD DILEMMAS
Authors: Kazemi Ali , Eek Daniel
Published: April 2009

Previous research has not been conclusive as to whether people prefer different or identical allocation principles in distributions of positive and negative outcomes. Thus, in this study, the question of whether or not group goal accounts for preferred allocation of positive and negative
outcomes was posed. As hypothesized for division of surpluses, the results showed that relationship-oriented goals predicted preferences for equality, whereas performance-oriented goals predicted preferences for equity. Moreover, the results were the same for allocation of deficits. This suggests
that people implicitly have different orientations, or goals, in mind in group situations that similarly influence the way they prefer to allocate positive and negative outcomes. The results also showed that participants allocating deficits deviated to a larger extent from the allocation principles
than did participants allocating surpluses.
YOUNG PEOPLE WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS IN DIFFICULT SITUATIONS
Authors: Konarska Joanna
Published: April 2009

The problem of puberty and the functioning of young people in society is the object of constant psychological studies. This question also pertains to teenagers with visual impairments for whom disability in itself is a difficult situation. My investigations using the Emotional Factors
Inventory (EFI) of Bauman (1960), the Adjective Check List (ACL; Gough & Heilbrun, 1971) and an Unfinished Sentences Test of my own invention, permitted me to study the reactions of teenagers with visual disability in comparison to their nonimpaired peers. The age of the participants in
the study ranged from 14 – 15 years and 18 – 19 years. The results do not imply a direct relationship between disability and behavior in difficult situations; reactions depend on other factors.
STUDENTS' WELL-BEING, COPING, ACADEMIC SUCCESS, AND SCHOOL CLIMATE
Authors: Ruus Viive-Riina , Veisson Marika , Leino Mare , Ots Loone , Pallas Linda , Sarv Ene-Silvia , Veisson Anneli
Published: April 2009

This article presents the results of a student survey conducted in 2004 at Tallinn University within the framework of the project “School as a developmental environment and students' coping.” The questionnaire was completed by 3,838 7th, 9th and 12th grade students
from 65 Estonian schools. The project arose from the need to prevent students from school drop-out and repeating grades. The main hypothesis was that by modifying a school's social climate, one can either help or disable the development of students' constructive coping strategies
and thus support, or not, students' academic success. Our most important conclusion is that the school climate parameters, especially the school value system and teachers' attitudes toward students as perceived by the latter, influence students' optimistic acceptance of life,
their psychological and physiological well-being, and academic success.
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE INFLUENCES OF JOB AUTONOMY AND NEUROTICISM ON JOB STRESSOR-STRAIN RELATIONS
Authors: Tai Wei-Tao , Liu Shih-Chen
Published: April 2009

The impact of job autonomy and traits (i.e., neuroticism) on job stressor-strain relations was examined. Data were collected from 311 first-line employees and supervisors belonging to the service department of 42 enterprises. The results showed that low neuroticism negatively related
with hindrance stressors, emotional exhaustion and disengagement. In addition, challenge stressors positively impacted employees' emotional exhaustion and negatively influenced employees' disengagement. However, hindrance stressors positively increased both the emotional exhaustion
and disengagement of employees. Finally, results showed 3-way interactions among neuroticism, job autonomy, and stressors on strains. As predicted, the interaction of neuroticism and job autonomy moderated the relationships between challenge stressors and two strains (i.e., emotional exhaustion
and disengagement), and the relationships between hindrance stressors and disengagement. Future research directions on the topic and practical implications of results are discussed.
COPING FLEXIBILITY AND LOCUS OF CONTROL AS PREDICTORS OF BURNOUT AMONG CHINESE COLLEGE STUDENTS
Authors: Gan Yiqun , Shang Jiayin , Zhang Yiling
Published: April 2009

The study compared the predictive value of locus of control and coping flexibility on student burnout. Two hundred and seventy-three Chinese university students completed the Chinese version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory – Student Survey (MBI-SS; Schaufeli, Martinez, Marques-Pinto,
Salanova, & Bakker, 2002), the Coping Flexibility Inventory (CFI; Zhang, Gan, & Zhang, 2005), and Rotter's Internal-External Scale (1966). Results indicated that the construct of coping flexibility was composed of perceived controllability and strategy-situation fit, which negatively
predicted burnout. Coping flexibility accounted for significant incremental variance beyond locus of control in predicting the three dimensions of burnout. The results provided evidence for the advantage of a person-situation interactional construct in predicting behavior, compared to its
personality counterpart.
RECOGNIZING AND DRAWING EMOTIONAL FACIAL EXPRESSION SKILLS OF MENTALLY RETARDED CHILDREN
Authors: doğru S. Sunay Yildirim
Published: April 2009

This study evaluated the skills of mentally retarded children in recognizing and drawing emotional facial expressions. The study group was made up of 38 mentally retarded students, including 12 girls and 26 boys, who were in three different educational settings: integrated education
(mainstreaming program), attending a special lower class, and at a special training school. This research was conducted according to the survey model, and it was found that there was no significant difference between boys and girls in the skills of recognizing and drawing emotional facial
expressions p < 0.05. It was also found that the children in integrated education were more successful in recognizing and drawing emotional facial expressions than were the other two groups.
A POLICY-CAPTURING APPROACH TO COMPARING THE REWARD ALLOCATION DECISIONS OF TAIWANESE AND U.S. MANAGERS
Authors: Hu Hsiu-Hua , Hsu Chin-Tien , Lee Wen-Ruey , Chu Chen-Ming
Published: April 2009

In this study the effects of three key factors (affect, loyalty, and contribution) of the manager-subordinate exchange relationship on two types of reward decision (monetary rewards and nonmonetary incentives) were examined. A policy-capturing approach of 2×2×2 within-subjects
of scenario experiment design was used to examine the effects of the exchange relationship factors on the corporate manager's reward decision in terms of a Taiwan-US comparison. Total valid samples were received from 204 Taiwanese and 172 U.S. managers. The results showed that Taiwanese
managers allocate more rewards to subordinates with a closer affective relationship than do U.S. managers. Conversely, U.S. managers allocate more rewards to higher contributing subordinates than do Taiwanese managers. The limitations of the research are discussed and suggestions for further
research are proposed.
Rejection sensitivity levels with respect to attachment styles, gender, and parenting styles: A study with Turkish students
Authors: Erozkan Atilgan
Published: April 2009

The effects of attachment styles of a group of university students on their rejection sensitivity levels in relation to gender, and parenting styles were investigated. Instruments used were the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (Downey & Feldman, 1996), and the Relationship Scales
Questionnaire (Griffin & Bartholomew, 1994). To analyze data, F statistics, t test, regression analysis, and correlation analysis were employed. Rejection sensitivity levels of female students who had fearful attachment styles and of students who experienced authoritarian
parenting styles were found to be significantly higher than those of others. Effect of attachment styles on rejection sensitivity and relationship between rejection sensitivity and attachment styles were both found to be significant.
Consumer skepticism and online reviews: An Elaboration Likelihood Model perspective
Authors: Sher Peter J. , Lee Sheng-Hsien
Published: April 2009

Online consumers vary in their tendency to believe or disbelieve online reviews. Based on an Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM; Petty & Cacioppo, 1981, 1986), the present study tested the effects of consumer skepticism on online consumers. A total of 278 undergraduates expressed
their attitudes about a product in an online experiment. Two findings emerged from the results. First, highly skeptical consumers tend to base their attitudes on intrinsic beliefs instead of situational factors; that is, they are biased against certain types of information and indifferent
to the message quality. Second, consumers with low skepticism tend to adopt the peripheral route in forming attitude; that is, they are more persuaded by review quantity. These findings contribute to the ELM research literature by considering a potentially important personality factor in the
ELM framework. Managerial implications are suggested.
Disseminating the functions of team coaching regarding research and development team effectiveness: Evidence from high-tech industries in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Chin-Yun , Pirola-Merlo Andrew , Yang Chin-Ann , Huang Chih
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this research was to test the predictions of Team Coaching Theory (Hackman & Wageman, 2005) using 137 research and development teams in Taiwan. The results of this study partially supported Hackman and Wageman's theory. Results of the structural equation modeling
(SEM) indicated that team coaching functions had positive effects on the team performance processes of effort and skills and knowledge. In addition it was found that the team performance processes of effort and strategy had direct positive impacts on team effectiveness. Further SEM analyses
indicated that effort and skills and knowledge both had direct impacts on strategy (which in turn impacted on team effectiveness).
Are supervisors fair mediators? The effects of personality traits and age difference on expected mediation fairness
Authors: Chi Shu-Cheng Steve , Friedman Raymond A. , Yang Mei-Yu
Published: April 2009

In this study subordinates' perceptions of their supervisors as potential mediators of disputes were investigated. In a scenario study using a sample of 122 supervisor-subordinate dyads in Taiwan, it was found that expected fairness of supervisors as mediators is affected by supervisor
extraversion and also by supervisor agreeableness, but only when the supervisor is much older than the employee. Expected fairness of supervisors was not affected by supervisor mediation self-efficacy. These findings suggest that mediator fairness is driven more by personality considerations
than by skill considerations.
Dual‐Responsive MXene‐Functionalized Wool Yarn Artificial Muscles
Authors: Zhan Liuxiang , Chen Shaohua , Xin Yangyang , Lv Jian , Fu Hongbo , Gao Dace , Jiang Feng , Zhou Xinran , Wang Ni , Lee Pooi See
Published: April 2024

Fiber‐based artificial muscles are promising for smart textiles capable of sensing, interacting, and adapting to environmental stimuli. However, the application of current artificial muscle‐based textiles in wearable and engineering fields has largely remained a constraint due to the limited deformation, restrictive stimulation, and uncomfortable. Here, dual‐responsive yarn muscles with high contractile actuation force are fabricated by incorporating a very small fraction (<1 wt.%) of Ti3C2Tx MXene/cellulose nanofibers (CNF) composites into self‐plied and twisted wool yarns. They can lift and lower a load exceeding 3400 times their own weight when stimulated by moisture and photothermal. Furthermore, the yarn muscles are coiled homochirally or heterochirally to produce spring‐like muscles, which generated over 550% elongation or 83% contraction under the photothermal stimulation. The actuation mechanism, involving photothermal/moisture‐mechanical energy conversion, is clarified by a combination of experiments and finite element simulations. Specifically, MXene/CNF composites serve as both photothermal and hygroscopic agents to accelerate water evaporation under near‐infrared (NIR) light and moisture absorption from ambient air. Due to their low‐cost facile fabrication, large scalable dimensions, and robust strength coupled with dual responsiveness, these soft actuators are attractive for intelligent textiles and devices such as self‐adaptive textiles, soft robotics, and wearable information encryption.
Supramolecular self‐assembled nanoparticles for targeted therapy of myocardial infarction by enhancing cardiomyocyte mitophagy
Authors: Jiao Yang , Wang Haimang , Weng Xiechuan , Wang Jihang , Li Ying , Shen Jian , Zhao Weiwei , Xi Qing , Zhang Hongyu , Fu Zhenhong
Published: April 2024

Myocardial infarction accompanied by diabetes mellitus is accepted as the most serious type of coronary heart disease, and among the current treatment strategies, the precise delivery of protective drugs for inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis is still a challenge. In this study, we developed a biodegradable nanoparticles‐based delivery system with excellent macrophage escape, cardiac targeting, and drug release properties to achieve targeted therapy of myocardial infarction. Specifically, a copolymer of p(DMA–MPC–CD) combining self‐adhesion, hydration lubrication, and targeting peptide binding site was successfully prepared by free radical copolymerization, and it was self‐assembled on the surface of melatonin‐loaded dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (bMSNs) following the integration of adamantane‐modified cardiac homing peptide (CHP) based on supramolecular host–guest interaction. Importantly, a hydration layer formed around the zwitterionic phosphorylcholine groups of the multifunctional nanoparticles, which was confirmed by the enhancement in hydration lubrication and reduction in coefficient of friction, prevented the nanoparticles from phagocytosis by the macrophages. The in vivo bioluminescence imaging test indicated that the nanoparticles were endowed with satisfied cardiac targeting capability, and the in vivo mice study demonstrated that the intravenous injection of drug‐loaded nanoparticles (namely bMSNs–Mel@PDMC–CHP) effectively reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, alleviated myocardial interstitial fibrosis, and enhanced cardiac function.