bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awake Intranasal Insulin Delivery Modifies Protein Complexes and Alters Memory, Anxiety, and Olfactory Behaviors
Authors: Marks David R. , Tucker Kristal , Cavallin Melissa A. , Mast Thomas G. , Fadool Debra A.
Published: May 2009

The role of insulin pathways in olfaction is of significant interest with the widespread pathology of diabetes mellitus and its associated metabolic and neuronal comorbidities. The insulin receptor (IR) kinase is expressed at high levels in the olfactory bulb, in which it suppresses a dominantShakerion channel (Kv1.3) via tyrosine phosphorylation of critical N- and C-terminal residues. We optimized a 7 d intranasal insulin delivery (IND) in awake mice to ascertain the biochemical and behavioral effects of insulin to this brain region, given that nasal sprays for insulin have been marketed notwithstanding our knowledge of the role of Kv1.3 in olfaction, metabolism, and axon targeting. IND evoked robust phosphorylation of Kv1.3, as well as increased channel protein–protein interactions with IR and postsynaptic density 95. IND-treated mice had an increased short- and long-term object memory recognition, increased anxiolytic behavior, and an increased odor discrimination using an odor habituation protocol but only moderate change in odor threshold using a two-choice paradigm. Unlike Kv1.3 gene-targeted deletion that alters metabolism, adiposity, and axonal targeting to defined olfactory glomeruli, suppression of Kv1.3 via IND had no effect on body weight nor the size and number of M72 glomeruli or the route of its sensory axon projections. There was no evidence of altered expression of sensory neurons in the epithelium. In mice made prediabetic via diet-induced obesity, IND was no longer effective in increasing long-term object memory recognition nor increasing anxiolytic behavior, suggesting state dependency or a degree of insulin resistance related to these behaviors.
Myosin Va Increases the Efficiency of Neurofilament Transport by Decreasing the Duration of Long-Term Pauses
Authors: Alami Nael H. , Jung Peter , Brown Anthony
Published: May 2009

We investigated the axonal transport of neurofilaments in cultured neurons from two different strains ofdilute lethalmice, which lack myosin Va. To analyze the motile behavior, we tracked the movement of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged neurofilaments through naturally occurring gaps in the axonal neurofilament array of cultured superior cervical ganglion neurons from DLS/LeJdilute lethalmice. Compared with wild-type controls, we observed no statistically significant difference in velocity or frequency of movement. To analyze the pausing behavior, we used a fluorescence photoactivation pulse–escape technique to measure the rate of departure of PAGFP (photoactivatable GFP)-tagged neurofilaments from photoactivated axonal segments in cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons from DLS/LeJ anddl20Jdilute lethalmice. Compared with wild-type controls, we observed a 48% increase in the mean time for neurofilaments to depart the activated regions in neurons from DLS/LeJ mice (p< 0.001) and a 169% increase in neurons fromdl20J mice (p< 0.0001). These data indicate that neurofilaments pause for more prolonged periods in the absence of myosin Va. We hypothesize that myosin Va is a short-range motor for neurofilaments and that it can function to enhance the efficiency of neurofilament transport in axons by delivering neurofilaments to their microtubule tracks, thereby reducing the duration of prolonged off-track pauses.
p63 Antagonizes p53 to Promote the Survival of Embryonic Neural Precursor Cells
Authors: Dugani Chandrasagar B. , Paquin Annie , Fujitani Masashi , Kaplan David R. , Miller Freda D.
Published: May 2009

The molecular mechanisms that regulate survival of embryonic neural precursors are still relatively ill-defined. Here, we have asked whether the p53 family member p63 plays any role during this developmental window, focusing on the embryonic cerebral cortex. We show that genetic knockdown of p63 either in culture or in the embryonic telencephalon causes apoptosis of cortical precursors and newly born cortical neurons, and that this can be rescued by expression of ΔNp63, but not TAp63 isoforms. This cortical precursor apoptosis is the consequence of deregulated p53 activity, since both basal precursor apoptosis and that induced by loss of p63 are rescued by coincident genetic silencing of p53. Finally, we demonstrate that the third p53 family member, ΔNp73, does not regulate survival of cortical precursor cells, but that it collaborates with ΔNp63 to ensure the survival of newly born cortical neurons. Thus, the balance of ΔNp63 versus p53 determines the life versus death of embryonic cortical precursors, a role that these p53 family members may well play in other populations of developing and/or adult neural precursors.
The role of ghrelin and ghrelin-receptor gene variants and promoter activity in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Garcia Edwin A , King Peter , Sidhu Kally , Ohgusu Hideko , Walley Andrew , Lecoeur Cecile , Gueorguiev Maria , Khalaf Sahira , Davies Derek , Grossman Ashley B , Kojima Masayasu , Petersenn Stephan , Froguel Phillipe , Korbonits Márta
Published: May 2009

Background

Ghrelin and its receptor play an important role in glucose metabolism and energy homeostasis, and therefore they are functional candidates for genes carrying susceptibility alleles for type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We assessed common genetic variation of the ghrelin (GHRL; five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP)) and the ghrelin-receptor (GHSR) genes (four SNPs) in 610 Caucasian patients with type 2 diabetes and 820 controls. In addition, promoter reporter assays were conducted to model the regulatory regions of both genes.

Results

Neither GHRL nor GHSR gene SNPs were associated with type 2 diabetes. One of the ghrelin haplotypes showed a marginal protective role in type 2 diabetes. We observed profound differences in the regulation of the GHRL gene according to promoter sequence variants. There are three different GHRL promoter haplotypes represented in the studied cohort causing up to 45% difference in the level of gene expression, while the promoter region of GHSR gene is primarily represented by a single haplotype.

Conclusion

The GHRL and GHSR gene variants are not associated with type 2 diabetes, although GHRL promoter variants have significantly different activities.
The resistance to fluconazole in patients with esophageal candidiasis
Authors: Wilheim Ana Botler , Miranda-Filho Demócrito de Barros , Nogueira Rodrigo Albuquerque , Rêgo Rossana Sette de Melo , Lima Kedma de Magalhães , Pereira Leila Maria Moreira Beltrão
Published: May 2009

CONTEXT: Esophageal candidiasis is often observed in patients with risk factors for its development and fluconazole is the therapeutic choice for the treatment of this disease. OBJECTIVES: To determine its frequency, by performing upper digestive endoscopy; to determine Candida species involved in its pathogenesis and verify their distribution according with the predisposing factors and to determine susceptibility to fluconazole in the samples. METHODS: From March 2006 to April 2007, all patients submitted to esophagogastroduodenoscopy at the Digestive Endoscopy Unit in the Oswaldo Cruz University Hospital, Recife, PE, Brazil, were eligible for the study. Samples were collected from patients who presented lesions consistent with esophageal candidiasis in order to identify Candida species and verify their susceptibility to fluconazole. The predisposing factors for the occurrence of esophageal candidiasis were described. RESULTS: Of 2,672 patients referred to upper endoscopy at the Digestive Endoscopy Unit, 40 (1.5%) had endoscopic findings compatible with esophageal candidiasis. The average age was 49.1 years. Twenty one patients (52.5%) were less than 50 years old, of which 82.6% were infected with HIV. Most of them (52.5%) were males and 65.0% were inpatients. Diseases were identified in 90% of the patients and 21 (52.5%) were HIV positive. Concerning endoscopic findings, severe forms of esophagitis were found in 50% of the patients with CD4 count <200. Non-albicans Candida species were isolated in 22.7% of HIV positive and in 45% HIV negative patients. A total of 6 (14.28%) samples were resistant to fluconazole, while 2 (4.76%) samples had dose depending susceptibility to this drug. CONCLUSIONS: Esophageal candidiasis prevalence was low, although within the results described by other authors. Male and inpatients were the most affected. The species isolated varied according to the characteristics of each group studied. Both, resistance and dose-depending susceptibility to fluconazole were considered high.
Avaliação da qualidade fisiológica de sementes de milho (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Medina P.F. , Marcos Fº J.
Published: May 2009

Dez lotes de sementes de milho dos cultivares AG-401 e AG-162, após tratamento com fungicida + inseticida, foram armazenados por 18 meses (maio/ 1984 a novembro/1985), em condições normais de ambiente, em Piracicaba, SP. Periodicamente conduziram-se testes de germinação, envelhecimento artificial e de frio com e sem solo. Cinco testes de emergência de plântulas em campo foram instalados dentro da época recomendada para semeadura do milho, no Estado de São Paulo. Os resultados indicaram que, dentre os utilizados nesta pesquisa, os testes de frio com solo e o de envelhecimento artificial são os que se relacionam com maior eficiência à emergência de plântulas em campo e com o potencial de armazenamento de sementes, além de identificarem diferentes níveis de vigor dos lotes avaliados. 0 teste de frio sem solo detecta apenas diferenças acentuadas de qualidade das sementes. Constatou-se, ainda, que a avaliação do vigor através da combinação dos resultados dos diferentes métodos, previamente ao início do armazenamento, é fundamental na identificação de lotes de sementes de elevada qualidade fisiológica, que poderão ser armazenados por períodos prolongados em condições normais de ambiente.
Effect of APF gel application time on enamel demineralization and fluoride uptake in situ
Authors: Villena Rita Sarmiento , Tenuta Livia Maria Andaló , Cury Jaime Aparecido
Published: May 2009

This in situ crossover and blind study was conducted to investigate the effect of professional acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel application time on the subsequent inhibition of enamel demineralization. During 3 phases of 28 days each, 15 volunteers wore palatal appliances containing 4 enamel blocks, which were subjected to 3 treatment groups: not treated (control) and pre-treated with APF gel for 1 or 4 min. Dental plaque was allowed to accumulate on the blocks and the appliances were immersed in 10% sucrose solution 3 times a day simulating a cariogenic challenge. After each phase, the blocks were removed to evaluate enamel demineralization and concentration of fluoride (F) remaining after the cariogenic challenge. F formed on enamel was determined in additional enamel blocks subjected only to APF gel application. APF gel was efficient in reducing enamel demineralization (p<0.05), irrespective of the application time (p>0.05). Also, the concentration of the F formed and retained on enamel was significantly higher after APF gel application (p<0.05), but the effect of time of application was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The results suggest that APF application for either 1 or 4 min is equally efficient to increase F concentration in enamel and reduce enamel demineralization.
Effect of 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching on sound and artificial enamel carious lesions
Authors: Pinto Cristiane Franco , Leme Adriana Franco Paes , Cavalli Vanessa , Giannini Marcelo
Published: May 2009

This study evaluated the effect of 10% carbamide peroxide (CP) bleaching on Knoop surface microhardness (KHN) and morphology of sound enamel and enamel with early artificial caries lesions (CL) after pH-cycling model (pHcm). Human dental enamel blocks were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10): 1 - sound enamel bleached (S) with CP (Rembrandt/Den-Mat); 2 - S and submitted to pHcm; 3 - CL bleached with CP; 4 - CL stored in artificial saliva and submitted to pHcm; 5 - CL treated with placebo gel and submitted to pHcm; 6 - CL bleached with CP and submitted to pHcm. Enamel blocks with known initial KHN values were demineralized (groups 3 to 6) and submitted to 12 day pHcm (groups 2, 4, 5 and 6). After demineralization and treatments, KHN was determined and the specimens were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey's test at 5% significance level. The results showed that among CL groups (3 to 6) only the group 3 presented remineralization after treatments. S groups (1 and 2) showed higher KHN and presented less formation of porosities on enamel surface than CL groups after treatments. In conclusion, bleaching procedures on enamel with CL did not exacerbate the demineralization, but should be indicated with caution.
Root surface defect produced by hand instruments and ultrasonic scaler with different power settings: an in vitro study
Authors: Casarin Renato Corrêa Viana , Ribeiro Fernanda Vieira , Sallum Antonio Wilson , Sallum Enilson Antonio , Nociti-Jr Francisco Humberto , Casati Márcio Zaffalon
Published: May 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate the root surface defect produced by hand curettes and ultrasonic tips with different power settings. Forty root surfaces were divided into 4 groups according the treatment: Gracey curettes, ultrasonic scaler at 10% power, ultrasonic scaler at 50% power and ultrasonic scaler at 100% power. Each specimen was instrumented with 15 strokes and the and divided in the middle to evaluate: (1) the defect depth produced by the instrumentation and (2) contact area of the instrument tips, which was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. ANOVA and Tukey's test were used for statistical analysis (a=0.05). The results (mean ± SD) of the contact area showed significantly greater defects (p<0.05) for the hand instrumented groups (2092.9 ± 482) compared to the ultrasonic groups (606.8 ± 283.0; 858.6 ± 422.5; 1212.0 ± 366.7, respectively), independently of the power setting. The values for the defect depth on root surface showed no statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between hand instrumentation (66.1 ± 34.0) and ultrasonic scaling at 10%, 50% or 100% power settings (52.4 ± 22.1; 72.0 ± 29.9; 77.7 ± 37.7, respectively). The findings of this study demonstrate that ultrasonic instrumentation produced a similar defect depth to that of hand instrumentation, with a smaller tip contact area, independently of the power setting used for scaling.
Post mortem analysis of burned magnesia-chromite brick used in short rotary furnace of secondary lead smelting
Authors: Prestes E. , Chinelatto A. S. A. , Resende W. S.
Published: May 2009

Burned magnesia-chromite bricks are the standard product for the lining of furnaces in lead industry, where the short service life is a great problem. Used sintered magnesia-chromite brick sample from short rotary furnace lining, sent by a secondary lead manufacturer, showed parallel cracks to the hot face due to structural spalling damage. The refractory infiltrated region and slag interface were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive spectroscopy analyzer, and X-ray diffraction powder analysis. Crucible corrosion test was performed to evaluate the influence of slag attack. The results showed that the structural spalling was due to strong Pb-infiltration of the refractory microstructure by bath components of the furnace (metallic lead and lead sulphite) during the reduction process and that the slag infiltration had little contribution due to the good resistance of the magnesia-chromite bricks to FeO rich slag attack.
Síntese, por reação de combustão em forno de microondas, de nanoferritas de níquel dopadas com cromo
Authors: Costa A. C. F. M. , Sarubo-Junior P. , Vieira D. A. , Silva V. J. , Barros T. S. , Cornejo D. R. , Kiminami R. H. G. A.
Published: May 2009

Pós nanométricos de ferritas de níquel dopadas com cromo foram sintetizados por reação de combustão em forno de microondas. A influência da concentração de Cr3+ nas proporções de x = 0; 0,5 e 1 no sistema NiCr xFe2-xO4 foi investigada. Os pós foram preparados de acordo com o conceito da química dos propelentes e aquecidos em forno microondas com potência 980 W. Os pós sintetizados foram caracterizados por difratometria de raios X, adsorção de nitrogênio (método BET), microscopia eletrônica de varredura, picnometria de hélio e medidas magnéticas. Os resultados mostraram que foi possível obter nanopós de ferritas de níquel dopadas com cromo e que a elevação da concentração de cromo causou um aumento no tamanho de partículas (15 nm para 55 nm) e redução nos parâmetros magnéticos.
Atributos do solo sob pastagens em sistema de sequeiro e irrigado
Authors: Pereira Ana Lúcia , Campos Milton César Costa , Souza Zigomar Menezes de , Cavalcante Ítalo Heberte Lucena , Silva Vagner Alves da , Martins Filho Marcílio Vieira
Published: May 2009

A pecuária é uma das atividades econômicas mais importantes da região do cerrado, sendo que o sucesso dessa atividade é dependente do sistema de manejo e de gramíneas forrageiras adaptadas às condições edafoclimáticas da região. Objetivou-se, neste tabalho, avaliar os atributos do solo em áreas sob pastagens com capim-Tanzânia (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzânia) e braquiarão [Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst ex A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Marandu], em sistema de sequeiro e irrigado no município de Rio Verde, GO. O experimento foi instalado no Centro Tecnológico Comigo, em um Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo Distrófico típico, em 16 parcelas com 450m² cada. Adotou-se o delineamento em blocos completamente casualisados, referindo-se aos quatro tratamentos: capim-Tanzânia e braquiarão com e sem irrigação, com quatro repetições. Foram realizadas análises de atributos físicos (estabilidade de agregados) e químicas (pH, cálcio, magnésio, potássio, fósforo, acidez potencial, capacidade de troca catiônica, saturação por bases e conteúdo de matéria orgânica). Os atributos químicos variaram em ambas as profundidades, decorrentes principalmente da ação da calagem e adubação do solo independente da ausência ou presença de irrigação. Os tratamentos com capim-Tanzânia e braquiarão sem irrigação apresentaram os maiores teores de matéria orgânica e tiveram os maiores valores do diâmetro médio geométrico (DMG). A maior porcentagem dos agregados ficou retida na peneira de > 2,0mm de malha. A irrigação não afetou a produção de massa seca do capim-Tanzânia e braquiarão.
Produção de biomassa de calendula officinalis l. adubada com fósforo e cama-de-frango
Authors: Barboza Valdenise Carbonari , Vieira Maria do Carmo , Zárate Antonio Heredia , Botega Simone Priscila , Padilha Neriane de Souza , Paes Caroline Leite
Published: May 2009

Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, avaliar a influência do fósforo e da cama-de-frango semidecomposta na produção de capítulos florais da Calendula officinalis L. Os fatores em estudo foram cinco doses de fósforo (4,3; 25,8; 43,0; 60,2; 81,7 kg ha-1 de P2O5), na forma de superfosfato triplo e cinco doses de cama-de-frango semidecomposta (1.000; 6.000; 10.000; 14.000 e 19.000 kg ha-1). Para combinar o fósforo e a cama-de-frango, usou-se a matriz experimental Plan Puebla III resultando em nove tratamentos (25,8 e 6.000; 60,2 e 6.000; 25,8 e 14.000; 60,2 e 14.000; 43,0 e 10.000; 4,3 e 6.000; 81,7 e 14.000; 25,8 e 1.000; 60,2 e 19.000 kg ha-1 de P e cama-de-frango, respectivamente) no delineamento de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. A altura média final das plantas, aos 120 dias, ficou em torno de 60,0 cm, independente dos tratamentos. A produção máxima de capítulos florais da calêndula foi de 9.755,16 mil ha-1,obtida com o uso de 49,15 kg ha-1 de P2O5 associada a 13.401,10 kg ha-1 de cama-de-frango. A maior produção (11.058,89 kg ha-1)de massa fresca de capítulos florais de calêndula foi obtida com 49,98 kg ha-1 de P2O5 e 13.266,59 kg ha-1 de cama-de-frango. As produções máximas de massas secas de capítulos florais (2.227,61 kg ha-1) foram obtidas com 39,62 kg ha-1 de P2O5 e 8.109,75 kg ha-1 de cama-de-frango. Concluiu-se que para se obter maior produção de massa seca de capítulos florais, componente de maior importância comercial, a calêndula deve ser cultivada utilizando adubação com HH 40 kg ha-1 de P2O5 e H" 8.000 kg ha-1 de cama-de-frango.
Viabilidade técnica e econômica da aplicação de água na cultura do feijoeiro comum (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)
Authors: Santana Márcio José de , Carvalho Jacinto de Assunção , Andrade Messias José Bastos de , Gervásio Gilson Gerson , Braga José Carlos , Lepri Eduardo Branquinho
Published: May 2009

Este experimento foi conduzido no campus II do Centro Universitário de Patos de Minas (UNIPAM) em Patos de Minas, MG, durante o ano de 2005, e objetivou-se avaliar o rendimento do feijoeiro comum-cultivar Talismã submetida a diferentes níveis de reposição da água de irrigação, determinar a lâmina ótima econômica e a época de suspensão da irrigação para a cultura. Os tratamentos constaram de 5 níveis de reposição de água no solo (40%, 70%, 100%, 130% e 160%), em função da lâmina para elevá-lo diariamente à capacidade de campo e 3 épocas de suspensão da irrigação (0, 7 e 14 dias após atingir o estádio R9 do ciclo cultural - modificação da cor das vagens, maturidade fisiológica das plantas). Utilizou-se para a irrigação um sistema por microaspersão. O delineamento experimental foi um DBC (blocos casualizados) em esquema fatorial de 5x3 com 4 blocos. Foram avaliadas a produtividade da cultura e as lâminas ótima física e econômica. A produtividade da cultura foi afetada pelos níveis de reposição de água no solo (houve aumento da produtividade até reposição de 100% com posterior queda) e pelas épocas de suspensão da irrigação exceto na reposição de 100%. As lâminas e produtividades que proporcionaram a máxima eficiência econômica foram 589,97 mm e 3205,76 kg ha-1 (R9), 535,72 mm e 2874,26 kg ha-1 (R9+7) e 575,84 mm e 3242,73 kg ha-1 (R9+14).
Avaliação in vitro da atividade fungitóxica de extratos de condimentos na inibição de fungos isolados de pães artesanais
Authors: Araujo Rita de Cássia Zanúncio , Chalfoun Sára Maria , Angélico Caroline Lima , Araujo João Batista Silva , Pereira Marcelo Cláudio
Published: May 2009

Objetivou-se, na presente pesquisa, avaliar a atividade antifúngica in vitro de alho, gengibre, orégano, cravo, canela e tomilho sobre a inibição e o desenvolvimento de Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium roqueforti, Rhizopus stolonifer, desenvolvidos em pães artesanais. Para cada planta foram preparados extratos alcólicos (EA10%, EA20% e EA25%), extrato aquoso (EAQ10%), extrator alcoólico puro (EAP) e testemunha sem extrato e álcool. Para alho, gengibre, orégano incluiu-se o extrato alcoólico da planta fresca (EAF 10%). Os experimentos foram instalados no Laboratório de Fitopatologia do EcoCentro/EPAMIG, Lavras, MG e no Laboratório de Fitopatologia do Incaper/CRDS-CS, em Domingos Martins, ES. Os tratamentos foram aplicados sobre os fungos inoculados em placas de petri, em meio BDA. Calcularam-se médias do Índice de Velocidade de Crescimento Micelial (IVCM) e esporulação. Os EA de plantas desidratadas a 10%, 20% e 25% inibiram totalmente o crescimento micelial dos fungos estudados, com exceção do EA 25% de alho sobre o Penicillium roqueforti e o EA 25% de gengibre sobre o desenvolvimento do Aspergillus ochraceus que não se diferenciaram da testemunha. O EA de alho teve um efeito não inibitório sobre P. roqueforti. Os EA, EAF e EAP apresentaram menor esporulação em relação à testemunha, exceto com gengibre e cravo sobre a esporulação do R. stolonifer e o EAQ apresentou um efeito semelhante ao da testemunha.
Educação Ambiental: referências teóricas no ensino superior
Authors: Tozzoni-Reis Marília Freitas de Campos
Published: May 2009

Este artigo trata dos pressupostos teóricos presentes na formação dos educadores ambientais nos cursos de graduação. Esses pressupostos definem um quadro teórico analisado a partir do referencial metodológico do materialismo histórico-dialético. Esse quadro teórico pode ser organizado em concepções naturais, racionais e históricas da relação homem-natureza e da educação e suas análises sugerem princípios metodológicos de organização curricular nesses cursos.
Prevalence of developmental defects of enamel in children and adolescents with asthma
Authors: Guergolette Rodrigho Pelisson , Dezan Cássia Cilene , Frossard Wanda Terezinha Garbelini , Ferreira Flaviana Bombarda de Andrade , Cerci Neto Alcindo , Fernandes Karen Barros Parron
Published: May 2009

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of developmental defects of enamel (DDEs) in relation to asthma severity, symptom onset and pharmacological treatment in pediatric asthma patients. METHODS: Children and adolescents (68 asthma patients and 68 controls), 5-15 years of age and residents of the city of Londrina, Brazil, were enrolled in the study. Medical and dental histories were collected through the use of a structured questionnaire. Each participant underwent a dental examination in which the examiner employed the DDE index. RESULTS: Of the 68 asthma group subjects, 61 (89.7%) presented dental enamel defects, compared with only 26 (38.2%) of those in the control group. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, we estimated the risk of DDEs in permanent dentition to be 11 times higher in pediatric subjects with asthma than in those without (OR = 11.88, p = 0.0001). The occurrence of dental enamel defects correlated with greater asthma severity (p = 0.0001) and earlier symptom onset (p = 0.0001). However, dental enamel defects did not correlate with the initiation of treatment (p = 0.08) or the frequency of medication use (p = 0.93). CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric patients with severe, early-onset asthma are at increased risk of dental enamel defects and therefore require priority dental care.
A asma e a DPOC na visão do pneumologista
Authors: Campos Hisbello da Silva , Lemos Antonio Carlos Moreira
Published: May 2009

OBJETIVO: Avaliar como o pneumologista vê o impacto da asma e da DPOC na sua clientela, e como ele vem tratando essas doenças. MÉTODOS: Inquérito com 227 pneumologistas participantes do VI Congresso de Asma e II Congressos Brasileiros de DPOC e de Tabagismo, realizados em 2007. RESULTADOS: As respostas dos pneumologistas mostraram que a DPOC é um problema de saúde pública igual ou maior que a asma, e que a DPOC causa inúmeros transtornos para o doente e para seus familiares. Na escolha do dispositivo inalatório, a simplicidade de uso é mais importante que o custo, havendo discreta predileção pelos sistemas Aeroliser® e Diskus®. A associação entre budesonida e formoterol foi a conduta terapêutica mais citada para o tratamento continuado do asmático sintomático, enquanto o brometo de tiotrópio foi o medicamento preferido pela maior parte para o tratamento continuado do portador de DPOC. A escolha do esquema para o tratamento continuado do asmático e do portador de DPOC é especialmente influenciada pela publicação de resultados de ensaios terapêuticos na literatura. CONCLUSÕES: A opinião do pneumologista sobre os temas abordados está de acordo com a literatura especializada.
Infecção por Mycobacterium tuberculosis entre agentes comunitários de saúde que atuam no controle da TB
Authors: Rodrigues Patrícia Marques , Moreira Tiago Ricardo , Moraes Andressa Karla Luz de , Vieira Rafael da Cruz Araújo , Dietze Reynaldo , Lima Rita de Cassia Duarte , Maciel Ethel Leonor Noia
Published: May 2009

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a incidência de infecção por Mycobacterium tuberculosis através da prova tuberculínica em agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS) que acompanham pacientes em tratamento de TB no município de Cachoeiro de Itapemirim (ES). MÉTODOS: Incluímos 30 ACS que atuam no Programa de Saúde da Família e 30 de seus familiares residentes no mesmo domicílio. Comparamos o resultado do teste tuberculínico de cada ACS e do membro familiar correspondente. RESULTADOS: Entre os 30 ACS, 27 (90,0%) eram do sexo feminino, ao passo que entre os 30 familiares, 23 (76,7%) eram do sexo feminino (p = 0,299). A idade média do grupo ACS e do grupo dos familiares foi, respectivamente, 36,8 e 39,7 anos. Não houve diferença estatística no nível de escolaridade entre os grupos estudados. Na investigação da exposição ao M. tuberculosis, o mesmo número de indivíduos nos dois grupos afirmou conhecer ou já ter tido algum contato com paciente com TB (17 indivíduos; 56,7%). Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa quanto ao resultado positivo da prova tuberculínica nos dois grupos (26,7% no grupo ACS e 3,3% no grupo de familiares; p = 0,011). CONCLUSÕES: A infecção por M. tuberculosis entre os ACS foi significativamente maior que entre seus familiares, e isso contribui para o debate em torno do risco ocupacional envolvido nas atividades destes profissionais.
Pandemic Influenza and Pregnant Women: Summary of a Meeting of Experts
Authors: Rasmussen Sonja A. , Jamieson Denise J. , MacFarlane Kitty , Cragan Janet D. , Williams Jennifer , Henderson Zsakeba
Published: May 2009

Pandemic Influenza: Special Considerations for Pregnant Women was a meeting convened by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2008 to obtain input from experts and key partners regarding clinical management of pregnant women and related public health actions to be taken during a pandemic.

Meeting goals were to discuss issues specific to pregnant women, identify gaps in knowledge, and develop a public health approach for pregnant women in the event of a pandemic. The meeting focused on 4 main topics: prophylaxis and treatment with influenza antiviral and other medications, vaccine use, nonpharmaceutical interventions and health care planning, and communications.

Participants reviewed the available evidence to guide action in each of these areas and identified areas of critical needs for future research.
Disparities in Influenza Treatment Among Disabled Medicaid Patients in Georgia
Authors: Leon Kyla , McDonald Marian C. , Moore Barbara , Rust George
Published: May 2009

Objectives. We explored possible disparities in seasonal influenza treatment in Georgia's disabled Medicaid population. We sought to determine whether racial/ethnic, geographic, or gender disparities existed in antiviral drugs usage in the treatment of influenza.

Methods. Medicaid claims were analyzed from 69 556 clients with disabilities enrolled in a Georgia Medicaid disease management program.

Results. There were 519 patients who met inclusion criteria (i.e., adults aged 18–64 years with an influenza diagnosis on a 2006 or 2007 Medicaid claim). Roughly one third (36.2%) of patients were classified as African American, 44.5% as White, and 19.3% as “other.” Most patients had 2 or more comorbid chronic diseases. Antivirals were used in only 14.5% of patients diagnosed with influenza. Treatment rates were nearly 3 times higher for White patients (19.5%) than for African American patients (6.9%).

Conclusions. Our analysis suggests limited use of antiviral treatment of influenza overall, as well as significant racial disparities in treatment. Additional studies are needed to further explore this finding and its implications for care of racial/ethnic minority populations during seasonal influenza and for effective pandemic influenza planning for racial/ethnic minority populations.
Effect of Data Errors on Typical Reservoir Engineering Calculations
Authors: Hutchinson Charles A.
Published: May 2009

In reservoir analysis important quantities such as reservoir pressure, in-place oil, and well damage are calculated from directly measured quantities and each measurement error has an effect on the calculated result. This paper employs statistical methods in the quantitative consideration of the effect of these measurement errors on answers calculated by specific formulas which may be taken as typical of reservoir engineering calculations. Detailed studies have been made concerning reservoir pressure, reservoir pressure decline, initial in-place gas in distillate fields, initial in-place oil in unsaturated fields, initial in-place oil in solution gas drive fields, and well damage. A wide range of examples is presented so that the conclusions may be generally applicable. Various intangible factors which cannot be included in the equations limit the quantitative applicability of the calculated error, but these factors reinforce rather than detract from the conclusions. Particular attention is given to the effect of bottom hole pressure measurements errors. The overall conclusion from this study is that in nearly all cases the errors in bottom hole pressure measurements make the major error in reservoir engineering calculations and that in many instances an increased accuracy of the pressure instruments to ±1 psi is highly desirable.

Introduction

The question of what accuracy is required in the data assembled for the purpose of making reservoir analyses has been the subject of much discussion in the past. Extremes of opinion have been encountered, ranging from a belief that reservoir analysis is approximate at best and that very approximate data are sufficient to an insistence that all factors be measured to the utmost possible precision.
Hydrafrac Operations in the Spraberry Production, West Texas
Authors: Grossman Waldo L.
Published: May 2009

During late 1950 and up to present date in 1951 the Spraberry sand production of West Texas has created wide-spread interest in the oil producing industry. It is recognized that there are many controversial opinions concerning operations in the Spraberry, it's economic value, and future development.

The application of Hydrafrac procedures to completion of Spraberry wells has become prominent in the development of these sands. This paper outlines the geologic and historical development of the Spraberry and the use of Hydrafrac applications in these formations.

Introduction

The application of the Hydrafrac Process to wells completing from the Spraberry formation was begun during the last part of 1950. The Hydrafrac Process consists of preparing a viscous gel to which a special sand is added and pumping this material into the producing formation at a rate which will develop sufficient hydraulic force to produce and/or extend a fracture. The gel must be of an unstable character to revert to a thin fluid, such that it may be recovered from the well, leaving the introduced sand in the fracture as a propping agent. In order to insure the reversion of gel to a fluid, breaker chemicals are mixed with crude oil and flushed into the formation behind the gel. The success of these treatments has been closely associated nth the current expanding drilling and development program along an area commonly referred to as the Spraberry Trend. 'Top of Spraberry' is found at depths of 6,500 to 7,500 feet in most of this area.

This trend covers an area over 100 miles in length and 50 miles in width from the North Gail Field of Borden County to the Flatrock Field of Upton County. Location of this eight county area of West Texas is shown in Figure 1.Location of the fields discovered through June 1951 are shown in Figure 2.
Mud Analysis Logging And Its Use In Formation Evaluation
Authors: Wilson R.W.
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Mud logging is the term applied to the process of analyzing the drilling mud and cuttings for oil and gas and correlating these shows with the depth of the formations from which they came. The amounts of oil and gas found in the mud and cuttings from productive formations vary widely due to variations in drilling practice and in formation characteristics. Hence, mud logging does not furnish quantitative information useful to engineers in calculating reserves for productivity of formations. Its principal usefulness is as an aid to formation evaluation in exploratory wells by detecting and locating oil and gas occurrences as the well is drilled. In contrast to other logging methods in which the presence of oil and gas is inferred from the measurements of physical properties of the formation, mud logging affords a direct determination of oil and gas in the formation. It is an around-the-clock program to assure that all oil and gas-bearing formation will be detected during the drilling of the well. The wide application of mud logging on exploratory wells attests to its usefulness. Approximately 300 units of mud logging equipment are now being used in this country.

Scope and Applications

Mud logging is done in a mobile laboratory at the wellsite while the well is drilled. The operator with the equipment at his command does the following:Detects gas in the drilling mud continuously and in the cuttings intermittentlyDetects oil in drilling mud and cuttings samples intermittentlyDescribes the well cuttings by mineral content, color, texture, etc.Logs the progress of the drill, the depth and drilling rate, and the circulation of drilling mud through the hole, and relates showings to their depth of originDetermines mud properties intermittently and observes the rig operation as it may affect the mud logging results

From the results obtained a log such as that of Fig. 1 is drawn.
Temporal Common Trends of Topsoil Water Dynamics in a Humid Subtropical Forest Watershed
Authors: Ritter A. , Regalado C. M. , Muñoz-Carpena R.
Published: May 2009

Research oriented toward understanding the hydrologic functioning of the relict “laurisilva” evergreen forests is scarce. This study focused on the analysis of temporal changes in soil water status under such humid subtropical stands and explored to what extent hydrologic fluxes may explain topsoil water dynamics. Hydrologic fluxes (potential evapotranspiration, canopy fog water dripping, and rainwater below the canopy) were computed for a 2‐yr period using in situ micrometeorological measurements in the Garajonay National Park cloud forest (Canary Islands). Time domain reflectometry (TDR) data were used to characterize soil water status at 0.15‐ and 0.30‐m depths in plots located at 1145, 1185, 1230, and 1270 m above sea level. The resulting eight daily TDR data sets were studied with dynamic factor analysis. The variability in the soil water status time series was simplified and successfully described (coefficient of efficiency = 0.717) with a single temporal trend dynamic factor model (DFM), representing unexplained variability common to all plots and monitoring depths. Comparison of DFMs with and without explanatory variables (i.e., hydrologic fluxes) indicates that unexplained variability in the observed data was partially reduced by the information provided by the hydrologic fluxes. The rainfall contribution to the soil surface, and to a lesser extent forest potential evapotranspiration, were necessary variables for describing temporal changes in topsoil water status; however, dripping fog water was found to be a negligible contributor. Dynamic factor analysis proved to be useful for studying the variability in multivariate hydrologic time series without the need of a priori detailed information about the underlying mechanisms governing soil water dynamics.
Testing of Intrinsic Sorptivity for Liquid Infiltration into Initially Dry, Miller‐ Similar Silica Sands
Authors: Schulte K. E. , Heng S. L. , Culligan P. J. , Germaine J. T.
Published: May 2009

The sorptivity (S) of a porous medium quantifies the effect of capillarity and surface forces on liquid infiltration. For infiltration into initially dry soil, S is dependent on three system attributes: the infiltrating liquid properties, the soil properties, and the maximum liquid content behind the infiltration front, θm Through the use of scaling analyses, a singular, dimensionless value of intrinsic sorptivity (S*) and an accompanying dimensionless Boltzmann transformation (Φ*) were previously derived that are independent of these system attributes for Miller‐similar materials. The existence of S* for different infiltrating liquid properties alone were tested by performing a series of experiments that examined the infiltration of either water or the aliphatic oil Soltrol 220 into an initially dry silica sand. This study extended that work to include testing of intrinsic sorptivity for different values of θm and different Miller‐similar soils. A series of 57 experiments examined the infiltration of water or Soltrol 220 into two Miller‐similar dry silica sands across a range of θm values. The results of these experiments, together with the previous ones, support the existence of S* for the experimental conditions investigated. A singular value of S* can be used to estimate sorptivity values for Miller‐similar media for a range of conditions. Likewise, Φ* can be used to generate a similarity profile for normalized liquid content in Miller‐similar media for different liquid types and θm values.
Joint Arthroplasties other than the Hip in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sayed-Noor Arkan S
Published: May 2009

Transplantation Surgery has undergone a great development during the last thirty years and the survival of solid organ recipients has increased dramatically. Osteo-articular diseases such as osteoporosis, fractures, avascular bone necrosis and osteoarthritis are relatively common in these patients and joint arthroplasty may be required. The outcome of hip arthroplasty in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head after renal transplantation has been studied and documented by many researchers. However, the results of joint arthroplasties other than the hip in solid organs recipients were only infrequently reported in the literature. A systematic review of the English literature was conducted in order to investigate the outcome of joint arthroplasties other than the hip in kidney, liver or heart transplant recipients. Nine pertinent articles including 51 knee arthroplasties, 8 shoulder arthroplasties and 1 ankle arthroplasty were found. These articles reported well to excellent results with a complication rate and spectrum comparable with those reported in nontransplant patients.
How safe is the use of prosthetic materials in the repair of abdominal-wall defects in malnourished subjects?
Authors: Karahan Mehmet , Kulacoglu Hakan , Seker Duray , Ergul Zafer , Kiziltay Aysel , Yilmazer Demet , Captug Ozge , Yavuz Alper , Serbetci Kemal , Bilgili Hasan , Hasirci Nesrin
Published: May 2009

Incisional hernias and abdominal-wall defects consume large amounts of healthcare resources. Use of mesh is effective in treatment of these disorders and can decrease the rate of recurrence. This experimental study focused on the safety of mesh use in the setting of malnutrition, a condition that impairs wound healing. Rats were divided into two groups: normally fed and food-restricted. An abdominal-wall defect, 2 by 2 cm, was covered with polypropylene mesh, 2.5 by 2.5 cm. After sacrifice of the rats at the 21st and 60th days, tissue samples were sent for tensiometric and histopathological studies. No significant difference in infectious complications was observed between the two groups. Tensiometry revealed no significant differences between the groups. On histopathological examination, the only difference noted was in the vascularization scores of normally fed rats. For malnourished subjects that survived after surgery, the use of polypropylene mesh appeared safe in the closure of abdominal-wall defects, with no increase in infection rate and satisfactory wound healing.
Incidence of basioccipital hypoplasia in Chiari malformation Type I: comparative morphometric study of the posterior cranial fossa
Authors: Noudel Rémy , Jovenin Nicolas , Eap Cristophe , Scherpereel Bernard , Pierot Laurent , Rousseaux Pascal
Published: May 2009

Object

The chronic tonsillar herniation defining Chiari malformation Type I (CMI) is thought to result from overcrowding of a normally developing hindbrain within a congenitally small posterior cranial fossa (PCF) due to occipital hypoplasia. The goals in the present study were to authenticate the cranioencephalic disproportion in a group of patients with CMI and to discuss new developmental aspects according to which part of the occipital bone was underdeveloped.

Methods

The authors retrospectively examined a group of 17 patients with CMI. Measurements of osteotentorial and neural structures of the PCF were made on MR images of the brain. The results were compared with findings in 30 healthy controls by using the Mann-Whitney U-test.

Results

Dimensions of the neural structures did not differ between the 2 groups of patients. The mean length of the basiocciput was significantly shorter in the CMI group (19.4 mm) compared with the control group (25.7 mm; p = 0.0003). The mean diameter of the foramen magnum was larger in the CMI group, but this difference was not statistically significant. The dimensions of the supraocciput and the mean angle of the cerebellar tentorium were identical in the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Data in this study support the idea that occipital hypoplasia is the main cause of overcrowding within the PCF. Basioccipital shortness is a cardinal feature of the resultant shallow PCF and could proceed from a congenital disorder of the cephalic mesoderm of the parachordal plate or occur later in the infancy because of premature stenosis of the sphenooccipital synchondrosis.
Hypoglycaemic and Hypolipidaemic Effects of Withania somnifera Root and Leaf Extracts on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Udayakumar Rajangam , Kasthurirengan Sampath , Mariashibu Thankaraj Salammal , Rajesh Manoharan , Anbazhagan Vasudevan Ramesh , Kim Sei Chang , Ganapathi Andy , Choi Chang Won
Published: May 2009

Withania somnifera is an important medicinal plant, which is used in traditional medicine to cure many diseases.Flavonoids were determined in the extracts of W. somnifera root (WSREt) and leaf (WSLEt). The amounts of total flavonoids found in WSREt and WSLEt were 530 and 520 mg/100 g dry weight (DW), respectively. Hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic effects of WSREt and WSLEt were also investigated in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. WSREt and WSLEt and the standard drug glibenclamide were orally administered daily to diabetic rats for eight weeks. After the treatment period, urine sugar, blood glucose, haemoglobin (Hb), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1C), liver glycogen, serum and tissues lipids, serum and tissues proteins, liver glucose-6-phosphatase (G6P) and serum enzymes like aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were determined. The levels of urine sugar, blood glucose, HbA1C, G6P, AST, ALT, ACP, ALP, serum lipids except high density lipoprotein-bound cholesterol (HDL-c) and tissues like liver, kidney and heart lipids were significantly (p < 0.05) increased, however Hb, total protein, albumin, albumin:globulin (A:G) ratio, tissues protein and glycogen were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Treatment of the diabetic rats with WSREt, WSLEt and glibenclamide restored the changes of the above parameters to their normal level after eight weeks of treatment, indicating that WSREt and WSLEt possess hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic activities in alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) rats.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some New Oxadiazoles Derived from Phenylpropionohydrazides
Authors: Fuloria Neeraj Kumar , Singh Vijender , Shaharyar Mohammad , Ali Mohammad
Published: May 2009

In this study a series ofnew1-(2-aryl-5-phenethyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-3(2H)-yl)ethanones 2a-e was synthesized by the cyclization of imines 1a-e using acetic anhydride. The products were evaluated for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity. Among the newly synthesized compounds, 1-(2-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)-5-phenethyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-3(2H)-yl)ethanone (2a)and1-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-phenethyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol-3(2H)-yl)ethanone (2b)were found to possess maximum activity against the tested strains of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. It was concluded that para-substitution enhances the activity of synthesized oxadiazoles.