bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adherence to Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations and Prostate Cancer Risk in the Prostate Testing for Cancer and Treatment (ProtecT) Trial
Authors: Er Vanessa , Lane J. Athene , Martin Richard M. , Emmett Pauline , Gilbert Rebecca , Avery Kerry N.L. , Walsh Eleanor , Donovan Jenny L. , Neal David E. , Hamdy Freddie C. , Jeffreys Mona
Published: July 2014

Background: The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) published eight recommendations for cancer prevention, but they are not targeted at prostate cancer prevention. We investigated whether adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations and a prostate cancer dietary index is associated with prostate cancer risk.

Methods: We conducted a nested case–control study of 1,806 prostate-specific antigen (PSA)–detected prostate cancer cases and 12,005 controls in the ProtecT trial. We developed a prostate cancer dietary index by incorporating three dietary factors most strongly associated with prostate cancer. Scores were computed to quantify adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations and the prostate cancer dietary index separately.

Results: The prostate cancer dietary index score was associated with decreased risk of prostate cancer [OR per 1 score increment: 0.91; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84–0.99; Ptrend = 0.04] but the WCRF/AICR index score was not (OR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.94–1.05; Ptrend = 0.71). There was no heterogeneity in association by prostate cancer stage (P = 0.81) or grade (P = 0.61). Greater adherence to recommendations to increase plant foods (OR per 0.25 index score increment: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.89–0.99; Ptrend = 0.02) and tomato products (OR adherence vs. nonadherence: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70–0.97; P = 0.02) was inversely associated with overall prostate cancer risk.

Conclusions: Adherence to the prostate cancer–specific dietary recommendations was associated with decreased risk of prostate cancer. High intake of plant foods and tomato products in particular may help protect against prostate cancer.

Impact: Meeting the WCRF/AICR recommendations alone is insufficient for prostate cancer prevention. Additional dietary recommendations should be developed. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(10); 2066–77. ©2014 AACR.
Recent Advances in Animal Models of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Betz Boris , Conway Bryan R.
Published: July 2014

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the single most common cause of end-stage kidney disease. Therefore, it is imperative that novel therapies are developed. Progress has been hindered, however, by the lack of robust animal models. In the current review we describe recent advances in the field, including the impact of background strain, hypertension and transcriptomic profiling. While the C57BL/6J strain is relatively resistant to DN, the FVB strain appears more susceptible and Ove26 and db/db mice on this background may be useful in modelling types 1 and 2 DN, respectively. Black and tan, brachyury (BTBR) mice deficient for the leptin receptor (ob/ob) develop many of the pathological features of human DN and, remarkably, treatment with exogenous leptin ameliorates hyperglycaemia, albuminuria and glomerulosclerosis. Hypertension plays a key role in the progression of human DN and exacerbates nephropathy in diabetic rodents. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase deficiency (eNOS-/-) results in moderate hypertension and the development of nodular glomerulosclerosis and hyaline arteriosclerosis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/6J mice. In Cyp1a1mRen2 rats, renin-dependent hypertension synergises with streptozotocin-induced hyperglycaemia to produce a 500-fold increase in albuminuria, glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Renal transcriptional profiling suggests that many of the gene expression changes observed in human DN are replicated in eNOS-/- mice and Cyp1a1mRen2 rats. Despite these advances, no model faithfully recapitulates all the features of human DN and further refinements are required. In the interim, it is likely that researchers may use publically available transcriptomic data to select the most appropriate model to study their molecule or pathway of interest.
Clinical Experience With a Novel Electromyographic Approach to Preventing Phrenic Nerve Injury During Cryoballoon Ablation in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mondésert Blandine , Andrade Jason G. , Khairy Paul , Guerra Peter G. , Shohoudi Azadeh , Dyrda Katia , Macle Laurent , Rivard Léna , Thibault Bernard , Talajic Mario , Roy Denis , Dubuc Marc
Published: July 2014

Background—

Phrenic nerve palsy remains the most frequent complication associated with cryoballoon-based pulmonary vein (PV) isolation. We sought to characterize our experience using a novel monitoring technique for the prevention of phrenic nerve palsy.

Methods and Results—

Two hundred consecutive cryoballoon-based PV isolation procedures between October 2010 and October 2013 were studied. In addition to standard abdominal palpation during right phrenic nerve pacing from the superior vena cava, all patients underwent diaphragmatic electromyographic monitoring using surface electrodes. Cryoablation was terminated on any perceived reduction in diaphragmatic motion or a 30% decrease in the compound motor action potential (CMAP). During right-sided ablation, a ≥30% reduction in CMAP amplitude occurred in 49 patients (24.5%). Diaphragmatic motion decreased in 30 of 49 patients and was preceded by a 30% reduction in CMAP amplitude in all. In 82% of cases, this reduction in CMAP amplitude occurred during right superior PV isolation. The baseline CMAP amplitude was 946.5±609.2 mV and decreased by 13.8±13.8% at the end of application. This decrease was more marked in the 33 PVs with a reduction in diaphragmatic motion than in those without (40.9±15.3% versus 11.3±10.5%;
P
<0.001). In 3 cases, phrenic nerve palsy persisted beyond the end of the procedure, with all cases recovering within 6 months. Despite the shortened application all veins were isolated. At repeat procedure the right-sided PVs reconnected less frequently than the left-sided PVs in those with phrenic nerve palsy.

Conclusions—

Electromyographic phrenic nerve monitoring using the surface CMAP is reliable, easy to perform, and offers an early warning to impending phrenic nerve injury.
Mapping of Focal Atrial Tachycardia With an Uninterpretable Activation Map After Extensive Atrial Ablation
Authors: Ju Weizhu , Yang Bing , Chen Hongwu , Zhang Fengxiang , Gu Kai , Yu Jinbo , Li Mingfang , Yang Gang , Cao Kejiang , Chen Minglong
Published: July 2014

Background—

Atrial tachycardias (ATs) after extensive ablation are increasingly common and challenging arrhythmias. The prolonged intra-atrial conduction time (IACT) during ATs in the milieu may complicate the mapping of focal ATs. In this present study, we aim to characterize the electrophysiological features of ATs in this unique setting and to delineate an effective mapping strategy further.

Methods and Results—

In total, 13 patients (average age, 59±7 years) in a cohort of 80 patients referred for AT ablation were selected for the study. The patients all demonstrated an undistinguishable map not ready to be interpreted the 3-dimensional mapping. A total of 13 ATs were mapped with mean tachycardia cycle length of 296±70 ms. Two activation patterns were identified, which were referred to as pseudo-macroreentry and chaotic activation. The former was a focal AT originating from the vicinity of an area of conduction block with the IACT less than the window of interest duration (4 cases; IACT/window of interest ratio range, 0.93–0.98). The latter refers to a focal AT exhibiting a disorderly color mapping display with IACT exceeding the window of interest duration (9 cases; IACT/window of interest ratio range, 1.02–1.29). The IACT was determined after resetting the annotation. All ATs were successfully eliminated at the originating site.

Conclusions—

We delineated a series of focal ATs in the setting of a significantly prolonged IACT encountered in patients after previous extensive ablation. Two activation patterns were identified, which may help facilitate the mapping of focal ATs in this setting.
Low-Level Jets in the North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR): A Comparison with Rawinsonde Observations
Authors: Walters Claudia K. , Winkler Julie A. , Husseini Sara , Keeling Ryan , Nikolic Jovanka , Zhong Shiyuan
Published: July 2014

Climatological analyses of low-level jets (LLJs) can be negatively influenced by the coarse spatial and temporal resolution and frequent changes in observing and archiving protocols of rawinsonde observations (raobs). The introduction of reanalysis datasets, such as the North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR), provides new resources for climatological research with finer spatial and temporal resolution and potentially fewer inhomogeneities. To assess the compatibility of LLJ characteristics identified from NARR wind profiles with those obtained from raob profiles, LLJs were extracted using standard jet definitions from NARR and raobs at 12 locations in the central United States for four representative years that reflect different rawinsonde protocols. LLJ characteristics (e.g., between-station differences in relative frequency, diurnal fluctuations, and mean speed and elevation) are generally consistent, although absolute frequencies are smaller for NARR relative to raobs at most stations. LLJs are concurrently identified in the NARR and raob wind profiles on less than 60% of the observation times with LLJ activity. Variations are seen between analysis years and locations. Of particular note is the substantial increase in LLJ frequency seen in raobs since the introduction of the Radiosonde Replacement System, which has led to a greater discrepancy in jet frequency between the NARR and raob datasets. The analyses suggest that NARR is a viable additional resource for climatological analyses of LLJs. Many of the findings are likely applicable for other fine-resolution reanalysis datasets, although differences between reanalyses require that each be carefully evaluated before its use in climatological analyses of wind maxima.
On the Observability of Oceanic Gyres
Authors: Marchal Olivier
Published: July 2014

This study examines the observability of a stratified ocean in a square flat basin on a midlatitude beta plane. Here, “observability” means the ability to establish, in a finite interval of time, the time-dependent ocean state given density observations over the same interval and with no regard for errors. The dynamics is linearized and hydrostatic, so that the motion can be decomposed into normal modes and the observability analysis is simplified. An observability Gramian (a symmetric matrix) is determined for the flows in an inviscid interior, in frictional boundary layers, and in a closed basin. Its properties are used to establish the condition for complete observability and to identify optimal data locations for each of these flows.

It is found that complete observability of an oceanic interior in time-dependent Sverdrup balance requires that the observations originate from the westernmost location at each considered latitude. The degree of observability increases westward due to westward propagation of long baroclinic Rossby waves: data collected in the west are more informative than data collected in the east. Likewise, the best locations for observing variability in the western (eastern) boundary layer are near (far from) the boundary. The observability of a closed basin is influenced by the westward propagation and the boundaries. Optimal data locations that are identified for different resolutions (0.01 to 1 yr) and lengths of data records (0.2 to 20 yr) show a variable influence of the planetary vorticity gradient. Data collected near the meridional boundaries appear always less informative, from the viewpoint of basin observability, than data collected away from these boundaries.
Estimation and Impact of Nonuniform Horizontal Correlation Length Scales for Global Ocean Physical Analyses
Authors: Storto Andrea , Masina Simona , Dobricic Srdjan
Published: July 2014

Optimally modeling background-error horizontal correlations is crucial in ocean data assimilation. This paper investigates the impact of releasing the assumption of uniform background-error correlations in a global ocean variational analysis system. Spatially varying horizontal correlations are introduced in the recursive filter operator, which is used for modeling horizontal covariances in the Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC) analysis system. The horizontal correlation length scales (HCLSs) were defined on the full three-dimensional model space and computed from both a dataset of monthly anomalies with respect to the monthly climatology and through the so-called National Meteorological Center (NMC) method. Different formulas for estimating the correlation length scale are also discussed and applied to the two forecast error datasets. The new formulation is tested within a 12-yr period (2000–11) in the ½° resolution system. The comparison with the data assimilation system using uniform background-error horizontal correlations indicates the superiority of the former, especially in eddy-dominated areas. Verification skill scores report a significant reduction of RMSE, and the use of nonuniform length scales improves the representation of the eddy kinetic energy at midlatitudes, suggesting that uniform, latitude, or Rossby radius-dependent formulations are insufficient to represent the geographical variations of the background-error correlations. Furthermore, a small tuning of the globally uniform value of the length scale was found to have a small impact on the analysis system. The use of either anomalies or NMC-derived correlation length scales also has a marginal effect with respect to the use of nonuniform HCLSs. On the other hand, the application of overestimated length scales has proved to be detrimental to the analysis system in all areas and for all parameters.
A Comparison of Mesh Refinement in the Global MPAS-A and WRF Models Using an Idealized Normal-Mode Baroclinic Wave Simulation
Authors: Park Sang-Hun , Klemp Joseph B. , Skamarock William C.
Published: July 2014

Idealized normal-mode baroclinic wave simulations are conducted to examine the impact of continuous mesh refinement compared with stepwise changes in resolution using nested grids. The nested-grid results are produced using the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) Model, hereafter ARW, and the continuous refinement results are produced using the atmospheric component of the Model for Prediction Across Scales-Atmosphere (MPAS-A). For the nested domain simulations with the ARW, variants of both one-way and two-way nesting techniques are examined. Significant reflection and distortion of waves are evident in results using one-way nesting, with the error increasing with decreasing boundary-update frequency. With continuous updating of the boundary conditions in one-way and two-way nesting, wave distortion is still evident near the lateral boundaries but the distortion is much less than with infrequent boundary updates. The conformal Voronoi meshes in MPAS provide a much smoother transition between mesh resolutions. Variable-resolution mesh MPAS-A simulations, using different transition zones between high- and low-resolution regions, are compared with the results from the ARW simulations. In the MPAS-A simulations, there is no significant reflection of gravity waves, suggesting that continuous mesh refinement can eliminate distortions that tend to occur along the boundaries of nested meshes.
Debating Curricular Strategies for Teaching Statistics and Research Methods
Authors: Barron Kenneth E. , Apple Kevin J.
Published: July 2014

Coursework in statistics and research methods is a core requirement in most undergraduate psychology programs. However, is there an optimal way to structure and sequence methodology courses to facilitate student learning? For example, should statistics be required before research methods, should research methods be required before statistics, or should statistics and research methods be taught in a combined, integrated fashion? In this article, we first review the current empirical evidence on whether there is a preferred format and sequencing of methodology courses to enhance student learning outcomes. Then we summarize an assessment study conducted at our own institution comparing a nonintegrated, two-course sequence that required statistics before research methods and an integrated, two-course sequence in which students shifted in an out of research methods and statistics units during each semester on short-term and long-term student outcomes. Our results revealed that students enrolled in the integrated sequence not only earned higher course grades in each of their initial methodology courses but also scored higher on senior exit assessments of their methodology skills taken at the end of their undergraduate careers.
Diversity decrease of ant (Formicidae, Hymenoptera) after a forest disturbance: different responses among functional guilds
Authors: Kwon Tae-Sung , Lee Cheol Min , Sung Joo Han
Published: July 2014

Background

Disturbance is one of the main causes for determining diversity of natural communities. A 3-year (2003 to 2005) monitoring of ant communities at a Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site in South Korea revealed a drop of ant diversity due to a forest disturbance which was evidenced by decrease of leaf area index (LAI) associated with the dropping of tree branches. In order to determine the process of the decrease in diversity, we compared the annual change of functional ant guilds, which are composed of forest ground foragers (FGF), forest vegetation foragers (FVF), soil and litter dwellers (SLD), and open-land foragers (OF).

Results

Four functional guilds of ants responded differently to the forest disturbance; FGF and SLD decreased, but OF and FVF increased. Species richness decreased, due to the decrease in SLD, and species evenness decreased mainly due to a sudden increase in an OF species, Formica japonica. Based on these findings, a mechanism is proposed for the decrease in ant diversity after the forest disturbance.

Conclusions

Ant communities responded significantly to even a slight forest disturbance of branch dropping with decrease in diversity and change in functional guild structures.
The Paternity Test
Authors: Johnson Ruel
Published: July 2014

2013 Small Axe Literary Competition—First Place, Short Fiction
Excimer Emission in Inclusion Complexes of Dibenzofuran and 5-Dibenzosuberenone with α- and β-Cyclodextrins
Authors: Rajendiran Narayanasamy , Sankaranarayanan Ramasamy Kandasamy , Venkatesh Govindaraj
Published: July 2014

The supramolecular self-assemblies of dibenzofuran (DBF) and 5-dibenzosuberenone (DBS) with α-cyclodextrin (α-CD) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were investigated by absorption, steady-state, and time-resolved fluorescence, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and molecular modeling methods. In all the solvents, the absorption and emission maxima of DBF is red shifted from that of DBS. DBF and DBS show single exponential in water and biexponential in CD solution. In both CD solutions, the change in the emission intensity indicates 1:1 inclusion complex is formed. At higher β-CD concentrations, excimer emission (2:2 stoichiometry, guest2:β-CD2) is detected. Binding constants were determined from the analysis of F0/F versus [CD] plots, resulting in a stronger association for β-CD. In the absorption and fluorescence spectra, the different trend displayed in α-CD seems to be related to a shallow inclusion of both drugs, stabilized by hydrogen bonding between the oxygen atom of the guests and the hydroxy groups of CDs. Self-assembled nanosphere and nanosheet morphology of the inclusion complexes were observed by TEM. The possible modes of theoretical calculations suggest the complex formation is favorable to an enthalpy driven process.
Structural Similarities of the Economies of the European Union
Authors: Grodzicki Maciej
Published: July 2014

From the point of view of the consequences of European integration, similarities of economic structures of member states are of high relevance. The main objective of the paper is to analyse how those similarities looked like in the period of 1970-2006 for EU15 and in 1995-2006 for EU25 countries. The analysis consists of two stages and refers to the similarities in employment composition between three sectors of economy, and also between subsectors of manufacturing and services– distinguished on the basis of their technological advancement and knowledge intensity. In the first step, on the basis of the EU-KLEMS database, a measure of structural similarity, Krugman specialization index, was calculated for all pairs of EU countries. Observation of its values points to an ongoing homogenization of EU15 economies and of their manufacturing structures, but also to an increase in differences of knowledge intensity in services. In the broader sample of EU25, despite an ongoing economic transition, no significant homogenization of structures was observable. As the second step, a cluster analysis was conducted, which allowed for identification of development patterns in the sample of European countries.
‘God blew and they were scattered’
Authors: Davis John
Published: July 2014

Did your pupils know that children as young as 12 fought in the battle against the Spanish Armada? Fire their imaginations with fascinating facts about this event.
Create a big impression
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: July 2014

Karen Hart provides arts and crafts activities that use everyday objects and deliver cross-curricular benefits. Children will delight in their surprising results.
Freedom to tailor your language teaching
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: July 2014

Within the new curriculum framework, the views of parents and pupils, as well as the availability of language speakers, can influence how you develop the subject.
Travel around the world with just a few clicks
Authors: Bosley Rachel , Bosley Mark
Published: July 2014

Computing programs can provide a creative approach to geography, enabling children to learn about cities, and the physical and human characteristics of places.
What a day to remember!
Authors: Aitken Elizabeth
Published: July 2014

All teachers aim for their outdoor trips to be as safe and stress-free as possible. It is all about forward planning, communication and prioritising on the things that matter.
Posttraumatic Growth and Spirituality After Brain Injury
Authors: McGrath Joanna Collicutt
Published: July 2014

This article introduces the concept of posttraumatic growth and briefly reviews the limited number of empirical studies on posttraumatic growth in survivors of brain injury. The relationship between posttraumatic growth and psychological understandings of human spirituality is then explored and it is argued that posttraumatic growth is a type of spirituality that is of particular theoretical and practical interest to healthcare professionals. Specific aspects of the situation of people with acquired brain injury are then considered in this light and some suggestions are made for the integration of spiritual care aimed at supporting personal resilience and promoting posttraumatic growth into rehabilitation practice.
An Interocclusal Recording Method for the Fabrication of Full-Arch Implant-Retained Restorations
Authors: Zafiropoulos Gregory-George , Galil Aiman Abdel , Deli Giorgio
Published: July 2014

The prosthetic rehabilitation of full arches with implants requires exact impression and bite registration. In this report, we describe the application of a simple method that uses a duplicate of the full denture as a mounting guide, which allows the accurate recording of the maxillomandibular relationship and bite registration while expediting this process for the treating dentist. Case reports of 2 patient are used to illustrate this method, which is independent of the implant system used, can be applied for both fixed and removable restorations, and reduces chair time.
Repair of a Multiple Implant-Supported Fixed Superstructure With a Metal-Ceramic Resin-Bonded Fixed Partial Denture: A Clinical Report
Authors: Hagiwara Yoshiyuki , Narita Tatsuya , Araki Masao , Sawada Kunihiko , Nakajima Kiyoshi
Published: July 2014

Even in the case of implant loss, replacement of the implant and refabrication of the superstructure are often sufficient, as long as the bone and soft tissue are in good condition. However, if implant loss accompanied by serious bone resorption occurs with a fixed implant superstructure supported by multiple implants, it is very difficult to treat. This clinical report describes the process by which multiple implant-supported fixed metal ceramic restorations were repaired with a metal ceramic resin-bonded fixed partial denture without complete refabrication after removal of one of the implants due to severe bone resorption. The 3-year follow-up indicated excellent serviceability and a well-satisfied patient.
Efficacy of Chinese auriculotherapy for stress in nursing staff: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kurebayashi Leonice Fumiko Sato , Silva Maria Júlia Paes da
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE: this randomized single blind clinical study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of auriculotherapy with and without a protocol for reducing stress levels among nursing staff.METHOD: a total of 175 nursing professionals with medium and high scores according to Vasconcelos' Stress Symptoms List were divided into 3 groups: Control (58), Group with protocol (58), Group with no protocol (59). They were assessed at the baseline, after 12 sessions, and at the follow-up (30 days).RESULTS: in the analysis of variance, statistically significant differences between the Control and Intervention groups were found in the two evaluations (p<0.05) with greater size of effect indices (Cohen) for the No protocol group. The Yang Liver 1 and 2, Kidney, Brain Stem and Shen Men were the points most used.CONCLUSION: individualized auriculotherapy, with no protocol, could expand the scope of the technique for stress reduction compared with auriculotherapy with a protocol. NCT: 01420835
A geração de resíduos sólidos em um processo produtivo de uma indústria automobilística: uma contribuição para a redução
Authors: Orth Cíntia Madureira , Baldin Nelma , Zanotelli Cladir Teresinha
Published: July 2014

É sabido que a produção de resíduos industriais constitui uma das principais formas de degradação do meio ambiente. As indústrias têm empreendido um esforço crescente para tornarem seus processos produtivos menos agressivos, especialmente no que se refere à geração e gestão de resíduos sólidos. O objetivo desta pesquisa consistiu em estudar a geração de resíduos sólidos no processo produtivo de uma indústria automobilística, visando a apresentação de ações de redução. O estudo se deu por meio de observações in loco, registros fotográficos e cálculos da quantidade de resíduos sólidos gerados no processo de Moldagem e Acabamento em Plástico Reforçado com Fibra de Vidro. Constatou-se que a moldagem do tipo aberta, adotada pela fábrica, representa a principal fonte de geração de resíduos. Outra fonte refere-se ao desperdício de materiais, atribuído à falta de capacitação e de Educação Ambiental. Concluiu-se que a migração para um processo mais limpo e a adoção de um Programa de Educação Ambiental devem ser consideradas pela unidade fabril estudada.
Biometria do bulbo ocular de bovinos da raça Nelore
Authors: Corrêa Lanna Beatriz Neves Silva , Santa'Anna Junior Leny Pereira , Souza Junior Paulo de
Published: July 2014

Objetivou-se realizar a biometria de componentes do bulbo do olho de bovinos adultos da raça Nelore. Para tal, analisaram-se 121 bulbos oculares de animais abatidos com idade entre dois a três anos em um estabelecimento no município de Itaperuna-RJ, Brasil. Vinte medições macroscópicas foram feitas nos bulbos oculares e suas estruturas. Os bulbos apresentaram eixo óptico medindo 33,27 ± 1,55 mm, diâmetro equatorial de 38,07 ± 1,70 mm e volume estimado de 24,07 ± 3,51 mL. Houve correlação moderadamente positiva (r = 0,723, p < 0,0001) entre o eixo óptico e o diâmetro do bulbo ocular na raça. A córnea de bovinos da raça Nelore demonstrou eixos vertical e horizontal comparativamente menores do que a das raças europeias citadas na literatura, porém a proporção entre a altura e a largura da córnea se manteve semelhante. A lente também apresentou dimensões menores em comparação a outras raças. Este estudo fornece dados úteis para futuras investigações clínicas das anormalidades oculares na raça Nelore bem como para pesquisas em anatomia comparada.
Efeito do fotoperíodo sobre a composição do filé de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo
Authors: Veras Galileu Crovatto , Murgas Luis David Solis , Zangeronimo Marcio Gilberto , Rosa Priscila Vieira , Miranda José Rafael , Brabo Marcos Ferreira
Published: July 2014

Com este estudo objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do fotoperíodo sobre a composição centesimal de filés de juvenis de tilápia do Nilo. Utilizou-se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com cinco tratamentos (0L:24E; 6L:18E; 12L:12E; 18L:6E; 24L:0E) e quatro repetições. Foram utilizados 160 alevinos de tilápia, distribuídos em 20 aquários (20L) em sistema de recirculação, temperatura controlada em 27 ºC e densidade de oito peixes por aquário. Os peixes foram alimentados duas vezes ao dia, com ração comercial extrusada contendo 40% de proteína bruta. Ao final de 75 dias, amostras do filé foram coletadas e armazenadas em freezer (-80 ºC) para posteriores análises da composição bromatológica. Não houve efeito dos diferentes fotoperíodos sobre a umidade e cinzas do filé (P>0,05). Por outro lado, os peixes sob fotoperíodo de 18L:6E apresentaram maior quantidade de proteína e retenção desta no filé, assim como menor quantidade de gordura e retenção de lipídeo (P<0,05). Portanto, pode-se concluir que o fotoperíodo pode alterar a composição corporal de alevinos de tilápia do Nilo, sendo que e o fotoperíodo de 18L:6E contribui para o aumento da concentração de proteína bruta e uma menor deposição de gordura no filé.
The influence of orthodontic fixed appliances on the oral microbiota: A systematic review
Authors: Freitas Amanda Osório Ayres de , Marquezan Mariana , Nojima Matilde da Cunha Gonçalves , Alviano Daniela Sales , Maia Lucianne Cople
Published: July 2014

Objective: To investigate whether there is scientific evidence to support the hypothesis that the presence of orthodontic fixed appliances influences the oral microbiota. Methods: The search for articles was conducted in PubMed; ISI Web of Knowledge and Ovid databases, including articles published in English until May 17th, 2012. They should report human observational studies presenting the following keywords: "fixed orthodontic appliance" AND "microbiological colonization"; OR "periodontal pathogens"; OR "Streptococcus"; OR "Lactobacillus"; OR "Candida"; OR "Tannerella forsythia"; OR "Treponema denticola"; OR "Fusobacterium nucleatum"; OR "Actimomyces actinomycetemcomitans"; OR "Prevotella intermedia", OR "Prevotella nigrescens"; OR "Porphyromonas gingivalis". Articles were previously selected by title and abstract. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed and classified as having low, moderate or high methodology quality. A new detailed checklist for quality assessment was developed based on the information required for applicable data extraction for reviews. The study design, sample, follow-up period, collection and microbial analysis methods, statistical treatment, results and discussion were assessed. Results: The initial search retrieved 305 articles of which 33 articles were selected by title and abstract. After full-text reading, 8 articles met the inclusion criteria, out of which 4 articles were classified as having low and 4 as moderate methodological quality. The moderate methodological quality studies were included in the systematic review. Conclusions: The literature revealed moderate evidence that the presence of fixed appliances influences the quantity and quality of oral microbiota.
Evaluation of a photographic method to measure dental angulation
Authors: Amorim Jordana Rodrigues , Macedo Diogo de Vasconcelos , Normando David
Published: July 2014

Objective: To analyze the reliability and reproducibility of a simplified method for analysis of dental angulation using digital photos of plaster dental casts. Methods: Digital and standardized photographs of plaster casts were performed and posteriorly imported to an angle reading graphic program in order to have measurements obtained. Such procedures were repeated to evaluate the random error and to analyze reproducibility through intraclass correlation. The sample consisted of 12 individuals (six male and six female) with full permanent dentition orthodontically untreated. The analyses were bilaterally carried out, and generated 24 measurements. Results: The random error showed variation of 0.77 to 2.55 degrees for teeth angulation. The statistical analysis revealed that the method presents excellent reproducibility (p < 0.0001) for all teeth, except for the upper premolars. In spite of that, it is still considered statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The proposed method presents enough reliability that justifies its use in the development of scientific research as well as in clinical practice.
Segmented arch or continuous arch technique? A rational approach
Authors: Caldas Sergei Godeiro Fernandes Rabelo , Ribeiro Alexandre Antonio , Simplício Hallissa , Machado André Wilson
Published: July 2014

This study aims at revising the biomechanical principles of the segmented archwire technique as well as describing the clinical conditions in which the rational use of scientific biomechanics is essential to optimize orthodontic treatment and reduce the side effects produced by the straight wire technique.
O Porto e a construção da cidade moderna: o caso do Hospital Geral de Santo António, nos séculos XVIII e XIX
Authors: Silva Helena da
Published: July 2014

Num período de crescimento demográfico e urbano da cidade do Porto, surgiu a necessidade de construir um novo hospital. A Santa Casa da Misericórdia do Porto, encarregue de erigir o novo estabelecimento de saúde, escolheu o arquiteto britânico John Carr para desenhar o projeto. Por meio da análise de um conjunto de fontes arquivísticas e de bibliografia diversa sobre o tema, examinamos os critérios escolhidos para a conceção e construção do Hospital Geral de Santo António e se este correspondeu às expetativas, tornando-se um espaço particular na cidade do Porto. Este artigo abre assim uma nova perspetiva sobre o estudo do desenvolvimento da cidade e da criação desse estabelecimento de saúde, contribuindo para a historicidade da arquitetura hospitalar.
Indoor air quality and health in schools
Authors: Ferreira Ana Maria da Conceição , Cardoso Massano
Published: July 2014

Objective: To determine whether indoor air quality in schools is associated with the prevalence of allergic and respiratory diseases in children. Methods: We evaluated 1,019 students at 51 elementary schools in the city of Coimbra, Portugal. We applied a questionnaire that included questions regarding the demographic, social, and behavioral characteristics of students, as well as the presence of smoking in the family. We also evaluated the indoor air quality in the schools. Results: In the indoor air of the schools evaluated, we identified mean concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) above the maximum reference value, especially during the fall and winter. The CO2 concentration was sometimes as high as 1,942 ppm, implying a considerable health risk for the children. The most prevalent symptoms and respiratory diseases identified in the children were sneezing, rales, wheezing, rhinitis, and asthma. Other signs and symptoms, such as poor concentration, cough, headache, and irritation of mucous membranes, were identified. Lack of concentration was associated with CO2 concentrations above the maximum recommended level in indoor air (p = 0.002). There were no other significant associations. Conclusions: Most of the schools evaluated presented with reasonable air quality and thermal comfort. However, the concentrations of various pollutants, especially CO2, suggest the need for corrective interventions, such as reducing air pollutant sources and improving ventilation. There was a statistically significant association between lack of concentration in the children and exposure to high levels of CO2. The overall low level of pollution in the city of Coimbra might explain the lack of other significant associations.
Trait–environment relationships remain strong despite 50 years of trait compositional change in temperate forests
Authors: Amatangelo Kathryn L. , Johnson Sarah E. , Rogers David A. , Waller Donald M.
Published: July 2014

Temperate North American forest communities have changed considerably in response to logging, fragmentation, herbivory, and other global change factors. Significant changes in the structure and composition of seemingly undisturbed Wisconsin forest communities have occurred over the past 50 years, including widespread declines in alpha and beta species diversity. To investigate how shifts in species composition have affected distributions of plant functional traits, we first compiled extensive data on understory plant species traits. We then computed community‐weighted trait means and functional diversity metrics for communities in both the 1950s and 2000s. We examined how trait values and diversity varied across environmental gradients and among Wisconsin's four main ecoregions. Trait means and diversity values reflect conspicuous gradients in species composition, soils, and climatic conditions. Over the past 50 years, values of most traits have changed as communities shifted toward species with higher leaf nutrient levels and specific leaf area, particularly in the southern ecoregions. Trait richness and diversity have declined, particularly in historically species‐ and trait‐rich unglaciated southwestern Wisconsin. Reductions in within‐site trait diversity may be diminishing the ability of these forest communities to resist or resiliently respond to shifts in environmental conditions. Despite changes in trait and community composition, trait–environment relationships measured directly via fourth‐corner analysis remain strong for most plant traits. Nevertheless, accelerating ecological change (including climate change) could outstrip the ability of plant species and traits to match their environment, particularly in more fragmented landscapes.
Does Low Vitamin D Have a Role in Pediatric Morbidity and Mortality? An Observational Study of Vitamin D in a Cohort of 52 Postmortem Examinations
Authors: Scheimberg Irene , Perry Leslie
Published: July 2014

Vitamin D is required for calcium absorption and normal bone mineralization; it has a key role in immune regulation against infections and is believed to be involved in immunomodulation in asthma. We did a retrospective analysis of 52 postmortem cases (aged 2 days to 10 years). Seventeen children had vitamin D deficiency (<25 nmol/L); 24 children had vitamin D insufficiency (25–49 nmol/L); 10 children had suboptimal vitamin D levels (50–79 nmol/L); and only 1 child had adequate levels (≥80 nmol/L). Three infants had fractures. Growth plate histology was abnormal in 10 cases with vitamin D deficiency (59%), but radiology was abnormal in only 3 of those cases. Eight infants (33%) with vitamin D insufficiency had abnormal histology, but radiology was normal in all cases. In 3 children hypocalcemia due to vitamin D deficiency was considered accountable for death; they all showed radiological and histological rickets: 2 babies had cardiomyopathy and a 3-year-old had hypocalcemic seizures. Children from all ethnic groups had a high proportion of low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency (the most common form of pediatric metabolic bone disease) is preventable and treatable. Profound hypocalcemia due to severe vitamin D deficiency can cause unexpected death in babies and young children. Measuring serum vitamin D levels postmortem may provide invaluable information on sudden unexplained death in ‘at-risk’ children. Vitamin D deficiency may be relevant in childhood asthma and in children with multiple infections and babies with bone fractures. Postmortem vitamin D levels are stable and easy to measure.
Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome  A Case ReportRT
Authors: Islam Md. Kabirul , Alam Md. Shah , Hanif Abdul , Hasan Md. Kamrul , Rahman Mizanur
Published: July 2014

We report a case of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome in a 25 year old married lady. Though it is a congenital abnormality, she presented as primary infertility after 2 year of her marriage and was referred to us from a Gynaecologist. She had absent vagina, rudimentary uterus with no cervix. Her ovaries were severely hypoplastic. The anus was placed anteriorly and opened into the vulva. In spite of absence of her vagina, the lady somehow maintained her married life by doing intercourse through the anteriorly placed rectum. The vagina was made from the lower end of existing rectum which opened into the vulva. The proximal end of the rectum and left colon were pulled through the pelvis and opened into the perineum. It improved her quality of life.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v1i1.19468
Thermoeconomic Analysis of Hybrid Power Plant Concepts for Geothermal Combined Heat and Power Generation
Authors: Heberle Florian , Brüggemann Dieter
Published: July 2014

We present a thermo-economic analysis for a low-temperature Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) in a combined heat and power generation (CHP) case. For the hybrid power plant, thermal energy input is provided by a geothermal resource coupled with the exhaust gases of a biogas engine. A comparison to alternative geothermal CHP concepts is performed by considering variable parameters like ORC working fluid, supply temperature of the heating network or geothermal water temperature. Second law efficiency as well as economic parameters show that hybrid power plants are more efficient compared to conventional CHP concepts or separate use of the energy sources.
Gain Scheduling Control of an Islanded Microgrid Voltage
Authors: Camblong Haritza , Etxeberria Aitor , Ugartemendia Juanjo , Curea Octavian
Published: July 2014

The aim of this research study has been to design a gain scheduling (GS) digital controller in order to control the voltage of an islanded microgrid in the presence of fast varying loads (FVLs), and to compare it to a robust controller. The inverter which feeds the microgrid is connected to it through an inductance-capacitor-inductance (LCL) filter. The oscillatory and nonlinear behaviour of the plant is analyzed in the whole operating zone. Afterwards, the design of the controllers which contain two loops in cascade are described. The first loop concerns the current control, while the second is linked to the voltage regulation. Two controllers, one defined as Robust and another one as GS controller, are designed for the two loops, emphasizing in their robustness and their ability to damp the oscillatory plant behaviour. To finish, some simulations are carried out to study and compare the two kinds of controllers in different operating points. The results show that both controllers damp the oscillatory behaviour of the plant in closed loop (CL), and that the GS controller ensures a better rejection of current disturbances from FVLs.
Using Benthic Macroinvertebrate and Fish Communities as Bioindicators of the Tanshui River Basin Around the Greater Taipei Area — Multivariate Analysis of Spatial Variation Related to Levels of Water Pollution
Authors: Young Shuh-Sen , Yang Hsi-Nan , Huang Da-Ji , Liu Su-Miao , Huang Yueh-Han , Chiang Chung-Ting , Liu Jin-Wei
Published: July 2014

After decades of strict pollution control and municipal sewage treatment, the water quality of the Tanshui River increased significantly after pollution mitigation as indicated by the River Pollution Index (RPI). The pollution level of the estuarine region decreased from severe pollution to mostly moderately impaired. The most polluted waters are presently restricted to a flow track length between 15–35 km relative to the river mouth. From July 2011 to September 2012, four surveys of fish and benthic macroinvertebrates were conducted at 45 sampling sites around the Tanshui River basin. The pollution level of all the study area indicated by the RPI could also be explained by the Family Biotic Index (FBI) and Biotic Index (BI) from the benthic macroinvertebrate community, and the Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) of the fish community. The result of canonical correlation analysis between aquatic environmental factors and community structure indicated that the community structure was closely related to the level of water pollution. Fish species richness in the estuarine area has increased significantly in recent years. Some catadromous fish and crustaceans could cross the moderate polluted water into the upstream freshwater, and have re-colonized their populations. The benthic macroinvertebrate community relying on the benthic substrate of the estuarine region is still very poor, and the water layer was still moderately polluted.
Correction: Brewer, R.; et al. Risk-Based Evaluation of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Vapor Intrusion Studies. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2013, 10, 2441–2467
Authors: Brewer Roger , Nagashima Josh , Kelley Michael , Heskett Marvin , Rigby Mark
Published: July 2014

The authors wish to add the following amendments and corrections to their paper published in IJERPH [1]. [...]
Making the Bend: DNA Tertiary Structure and Protein-DNA Interactions
Authors: Harteis Sabrina , Schneider Sabine
Published: July 2014

DNA structure functions as an overlapping code to the DNA sequence. Rapid progress in understanding the role of DNA structure in gene regulation, DNA damage recognition and genome stability has been made. The three dimensional structure of both proteins and DNA plays a crucial role for their specific interaction, and proteins can recognise the chemical signature of DNA sequence (“base readout”) as well as the intrinsic DNA structure (“shape recognition”). These recognition mechanisms do not exist in isolation but, depending on the individual interaction partners, are combined to various extents. Driving force for the interaction between protein and DNA remain the unique thermodynamics of each individual DNA-protein pair. In this review we focus on the structures and conformations adopted by DNA, both influenced by and influencing the specific interaction with the corresponding protein binding partner, as well as their underlying thermodynamics.