bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Photo-Switchable Transport in Quantum Dot Solids
Authors: Schedel Christine , Thalwitzer Robert , Khoshkhoo Mahdi Samadi , Scheele Marcus
Published: October 2016

We use the photochromic organic semiconductor 1,2-Bis(5′-carboxy-2′-methylthien-3′-yl)-cyclopentene (DTCP) to cross-link PbS quantum dots assembled into thin films. The ligand exchange is monitored by means of vibrational spectroscopy (FT-IR) and core-level X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS). Transport measurements in a field-effect transistor (FET) set-up reveal ambipolar behavior with hole and electron mobilities on the order of 10−4 cm2/Vs and 10−5 cm2/Vs, respectively. Exposure to UV light from a 4 W UV lamp does not significantly change the transport properties, indicating that switching of DTCP is hindered in the hybrid film. We find a pronounced photo-conductance with rapid and reversible photo-response on the order of few seconds, which we attribute to (de-)filling of QD trap states. Our results indicate that hybrid, nanostructured networks of PbS QDs cross-linked with DTCP can be obtained by the presented procedure but that switching of the QD-bound DTCP appears to be hindered compared to the pure, unbound molecular species. We discuss future means to address this problem.
Estradiol Facilitation of Cocaine Self-Administration in Female Rats Requires Activation of mGluR5
Authors: Martinez Luis A. , Gross Kellie S. , Himmler Brett T. , Emmitt Nicole L. , Peterson Brittni M. , Zlebnik Natalie E. , Foster Olive M. , Carroll Marilyn E. , Meisel Robert L. , Mermelstein Paul G.
Published: October 2016

In comparison to men, women initiate drug use at earlier ages and progress from initial use to addiction more rapidly. This heightened intake and vulnerability to drugs of abuse is regulated in part by estradiol, although the signaling mechanisms by which this occurs are not well understood. Recent findings indicate that within the nucleus accumbens core, estradiol induces structural plasticity via membrane-localized estrogen receptor α, functionally coupled to metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5). Hence, we sought to determine whether mGluR5 activation was essential for estradiol-mediated enhancement of cocaine self-administration. Ovariectomized (OVX) female rats were allowed to freely self-administer cocaine under extended access conditions (6 h/d) for 10 consecutive days. The mGluR5 antagonist 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine hydrochloride (MPEP) or vehicle was administered before estradiol (or oil), on a 2 d on/2 d off schedule throughout the extended access period. MPEP treatment prevented the estradiol-dependent enhancement of cocaine self-administration in OVX females. In a separate experiment, potentiation of mGluR5 function with the positive allosteric modulator 3-cyano-N-(1,3-diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)benzamide (in the absence of estradiol treatment) failed to increase cocaine self-administration. These data suggest that mGluR5 activation is necessary for estradiol-mediated enhancement of responses to cocaine, but that direct mGluR5 activation is insufficient to mimic the female response to estradiol. Building on previous studies in male animals, these findings further highlight the therapeutic potential of mGluR5 antagonism in the treatment of addiction and suggest that there may be added therapeutic benefit in females.
Katastrophenanleihen
Authors: Fest Timo
Published: October 2016

Katastrophenanleihen sind Instrumente des sog. Alternativen Risikotransfers, deren Ausgabe überwiegend von Versicherungsunternehmen initiiert wird. Dabei wird ein wirtschaftliches Risiko an eine Zweckgesellschaft zediert, von dieser in Form einer Anleihe verbrieft und über den Kapitalmarkt an das Anlegerpublikum weitergereicht. Obwohl der deutsche Gesetzgeber bereits im Jahr 2007 eine Sonderregelung für die Errichtung von Versicherungs-Zweckgesellschaften geschaffen hat, ist es bisher noch zu keiner Gründung einer solchen Gesellschaft mit Sitz in Deutschland gekommen. Diesen Befund nimmt der Beitrag zum Anlass der Frage nachzugehen, welche rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen den Finanzstandort Deutschland im internationalen Wettbewerb derzeit unattraktiv erscheinen lassen und welche gesetzgeberischen Maßnahmen Abhilfe schaffen können.
Sparkassenaufsicht und Bankenaufsicht
Authors: Oebbecke Janbernd
Published: October 2016

Die kommunalen Sparkassen unterliegen als rechtsfähige Anstalten des öffentlichen Rechts der Anstaltsaufsicht des jeweiligen Landes. Wie alle anderen Kreditinstitute unterliegen sie auch der Bankenaufsicht. Die Maßstäbe der beiden Aufsichtsregime überlappen sich in der Weise, dass sich die Anstaltsaufsicht auch auf das gesamte Bankenaufsichtsrecht erstreckt. Das aufsichtliche Instrumentarium und die Expertise der Anstaltsaufsicht bleiben insoweit aber hinter der Bankenaufsicht zurück. Rechtspolitisch kommt eine Zurücknahme der Maßstäbe der Anstaltsaufsicht in Betracht und wäre, wie am Beispiel des nordrhein-westfälischen Rechts gezeigt wird, verfassungsrechtlich zulässig.
SREP capital ratios and due process
Authors: Schuster Gunnar , Pitz Sebastian
Published: October 2016

The introduction of the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) and the resulting transfer of prudential bank supervisory competences to the European Central Bank (ECB) has led to material changes in the European financial supervisory landscape. One of the ECB’s key supervisory tools is the supervisory review and evaluation process (SREP). On the basis of the outcome of this process, the ECB requires significant credit institutions to hold additional own funds. This article describes and analyses the ECB’s handling of this significant regulatory tool and identifies weaknesses in applicable due process requirements.
A tribute to Wartenberg’s refined neurological examination
Authors: Maranhão-Filho Péricles , Gonik Renato
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Robert Wartenberg was a renowned 20th century neurologist who contributed greatly to our understanding of the neurological examination. This article aims to illustrate his legacy by highlighting five seminal neurological signs.
Ketogenic diet for epilepsy treatment
Authors: Sampaio Letícia Pereira de Brito
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT The ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and adequate-protein diet is an established, effective nonpharmacologic treatment option for intractable childhood epilepsy. The KD was developed in 1921 and even though it has been increasingly used worldwide in the past decade, many neurologists are not familiar with this therapeutic approach. In the past few years, alternative and more flexible KD variants have been developed to make the treatment easier and more palatable while reducing side effects and making it available to larger group of refractory epilepsy patients. This review summarizes the history of the KD and the principles and efficacy of the classic ketogenic diet, medium-chain triglyceride(s) (MCT) ketogenic diet, modified Atkins diet, and low glycemic index treatment.
Far beyond the motor neuron: the role of glial cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Souza Paulo Victor Sgobbi de , Pinto Wladimir Bocca Vieira de Rezende , Rezende Filho Flávio Moura , Oliveira Acary Souza Bulle
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Motor neuron disease is one of the major groups of neurodegenerative diseases, mainly represented by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Despite wide genetic and biochemical data regarding its pathophysiological mechanisms, motor neuron disease develops under a complex network of mechanisms not restricted to the unique functions of the alpha motor neurons but which actually involve diverse functions of glial cell interaction. This review aims to expose some of the leading roles of glial cells in the physiological mechanisms of neuron-glial cell interactions and the mechanisms related to motor neuron survival linked to glial cell functions.
Higher positive identification of malignant CSF cells using the cytocentrifuge than the Suta chamber
Authors: Almeida Sérgio Monteiro de , Rotta Indianara , Conto Arnaldo José de , Antonelli Filho Dario , Roda Carlos Dabdoub , Yamada Edna Yoshiko , Singer Gisele M. B.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Objective To define how to best handle cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens to obtain the highest positivity rate for the diagnosis of malignancy, comparing two different methods of cell concentration, sedimentation and cytocentrifugation. Methods A retrospective analysis of 411 CSF reports. Results This is a descriptive comparative study. The positive identification of malignant CSF cells was higher using the centrifuge than that using the Suta chamber (27.8% vs. 19.0%, respectively; p = 0.038). Centrifuge positively identified higher numbers of malignant cells in samples with a normal concentration of white blood cells (WBCs) (< 5 cells/mm3) and with more than 200 cells/mm3, although this was not statistically significant. There was no lymphocyte loss using either method. Conclusions Cytocentrifugation positively identified a greater number of malignant cells in the CSF than cytosedimentation with the Suta chamber. However, there was no difference between the methods when the WBC counts were within the normal range.
Autonomic thermoregulatory dysfunction in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Madeira Luciana G , Passos Renata LF , Souza Juliana F de , Rezende Nilton A , Rodrigues Luiz O. C.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Objective Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) causes neural and cutaneous disorders and reduced exercise capacity. Exercise/heat exposure increasing internal temperature must be compensated by eccrine sweat function and warmed skin vasodilation. We suspected NF1 could adversely affect eccrine sweat function and/or vascular thermoregulatory responses (VTR). Methods The eccrine sweat function and VTR of 25 NF1 volunteers (14 males, 11 females; 16–57 years old) were compared with 23 non-NF1 controls matched by sex, age, height and weight (CG). Sweating was induced by 1) pilocarpine 1% iontophoresis (PILO); and 2) by passive heating (HEAT) via the lower third of the legs being immersed in 42°C water for one hour. Previously established eccrine sweat function and VTR protocols were used. Results The NF1 group showed: a) lower sweat rate than the CG group during PILO; b) a smaller diastolic pressure decrease; and c) higher tympanic temperatures than controls during HEAT (p < 0.05). Conclusion Reduced sweating and vascular thermoregulatory responses suggest autonomic dysfunction in NF1 individuals.
Working memory and left medial temporal cortical thickness
Authors: Pastura Giuseppe , Kubo Tadeu Takao Almodovar , Regalla Maria Angélica , Mesquita Cíntia Machado , Coutinho Gabriel , Gasparetto Emerson Leandro , Figueiredo Otávio , Mattos Paulo , Araújo Alexandra Prüfer de Queiroz Campos
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Objective To perform a pilot study to investigate the association between working memory and cortical thickness in a sample of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children. Methods Seventeen children aged 7-10 years diagnosed with ADHD and 16 healthy children underwent a magnetic resonance scan for cortical thickness measurements. Data was correlated with working memory performance using the Backwards Digit Span subtest of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Results Working memory impairment, evidenced by lower scores on the Backwards Digit Span, was observed in patients with ADHD compared to healthy controls. There was a direct correlation between working memory and cortical thickness of the left medial temporal lobe (Spearman’s correlation coefficient: 0.499; p < 0.005). Conclusions Our data suggests, for the first time, a correlation between working memory, evaluated by the Backwards Digit Span, and left medial temporal cortical thickness.
The relevance of trunk evaluation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: the segmental assessment of trunk control
Authors: Sá Cristina dos Santos Cardoso de , Fagundes Iara Kristine , Araújo Talita Bastos , Oliveira Acary Souza Bulle , Fávero Francis Meire
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT The aim was to describe trunk control in ambulant and non-ambulant patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of a sample of 50 DMD patients, (M age = 16.7 years) who underwent the Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo). A seven-level scale of trunk control was used (1: head control only; 7: control of entire trunk while unsupported). Static, active and reactive posture control were evaluated in ambulant and non-ambulant patients. Inter-rater reliability for all assessments was evaluated by calculating the kappa coefficient. More advanced disease (having higher Vignos scores), was associated with poorer trunk control. Ambulant patients showed better trunk control than non-ambulant patients (p = 0.003). There was strong inter-rater agreement for SATCo scale scores.
Itajaí, Santa Catarina – Azorean ancestry and spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Teive Hélio A. G. , Moro Adriana , Arruda Walter O. , Raskin Salmo , Teive Gladys M. G. , Dallabrida Norberto , Munhoz Renato P.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT The authors present a historical review of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3/Machado-Joseph disease (SCA3/MJD), the most common form of spinocerebellar ataxia in Brazil, and consider the high frequency of cases in families from Itajaí, a city on the coast of the state of Santa Catarina with a large population of Portuguese/Azorean descent.
Unusual motor and non-motor symptoms and signs in the early stage of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Teive Hélio A. G. , Bertucci Filho Délcio C. , Munhoz Renato P.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Objective Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) may present with unusual motor and non-motor symptoms and signs in the early stage of the disease. Methods Cases were collected over a five-year period at two tertiary movement disorders clinics. All had a diagnosis of PD with unusual presentations defined retrospectively as the presence of complaints not objectively related to any of the classic cardinal signs of parkinsonism or the typical early non-motor features of PD. Results A total of 15 early PD patients fulfilled the proposed criteria, presenting with symptoms such as atypical tremors, shoulder pain, signs related to the rigid akinetic syndrome, as well as cases of asthenia, rhinorrhea, parosmia, dysgeusia, nocturnal sialorrhea, and color discrimination disorders. Conclusions Unusual motor and non-motor symptoms and signs in the early stage of PD can be difficult to interpret. Specialists should be aware of these conditions as clues to a potential diagnosis.
The maintenance of modified electroconvulsive therapy combined with risperidone is better than risperidone alone in preventing relapse of schizophrenia and improving cognitive function
Authors: Yang Ying , Cheng Xiaojing , Xu Qingzhi , Li Renjun , Liu Zengxun , Wang Liping , Zhang Yanqing , Ren Guoqiang , Liu Jintong
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the effect of maintenance modified electroconvulsive therapy (MECT) on schizophrenic patients. Methods From June 2012 to June 2014, 62 patients with schizophrenia, who had recovered from a successful course of acute MECT, were recruited. Thirty-one patients received maintenance MECT and risperidone, as the experimental group. Another 31 patients were enrolled in the control group, and received risperidone only. The effects on cognitive functions, clinical symptoms and relapse rate were determined. Results Patients in the experimental group had a lower relapse rate and longer relapse-free survival time than the controls. Relative to the baseline evaluation, patients showed statistically significant improvement in verbal memory and visual memory. At the final assessment, the scores of verbal and visual memory were remarkably lower in the experimental group than the controls but there was no significant difference in other tests. Conclusion Maintenance MECT plus medication is superior to medication alone in preventing relapse and improving cognitive function.
OCURRENCE OF Revena plaumanni BONDAR, 1943 (Coleoptera: CURCULIONIDAE) IN PINDO PALM FRUIT
Authors: TONIETTO ADILSON , SCHLINDWEIN GILSON
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to identify and to report the occurrence of one of the insects that feeds on the seeds of the pindo palm (Butia odorata). The material was collected in the city of Viamão, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. The larvae obtained in mature fruit were developed in a gerboxe containing sterilized wet sand substrate and not under controlled conditions. The larvae found in the endocarps of Pindo palm originated insects Curculionidae identified as Revena plaumanni Bondar, 1943. Comments about it’s biology and behavior are based on the observations performed in the laboratory.
FIRST REPORT OF Phytophthora nicotianae CAUSING ROOT ROT OF SOURSOP IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL
Authors: COSTA JAQUELINE FIGUEREDO DE OLIVEIRA , ASSUNÇÃO IRAÍLDES PEREIRA , LIMA GAUS SILVESTRE DE ANDRADE , MUNIZ MARIA DE FÁTIMA SILVA , LUZ EDNA DORA MARTINS NEWMAN
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT In 2013, soursop trees showing symptoms of root rot were observed in a field in Maceió, state of Alagoas, Brazil. It was isolated Phytophthora sp. which pathogenicity was confirmed in the host seedlings. Morphological and physiological characteristics in carrot-agar modified medium were consistent with Phytophthora nicotianae description. The PCR sequences products obtained with ITS1/ITS4 primers were compared to sequences of ribosomal DNA of Phytophthora species from the GenBank database observing high identity with other P. nicotianae isolates. A phylogenetic tree was performed to compare the isolate with other sequences of P. nicotianae, which clustering has been verified with 99% of bootstrap, confirming the morphophysiological studies. This is the first report of this pathogen on annonaceous plants in the Northeastern Brazil.
Quantitative computed tomography analysis of the airways in patients with cystic fibrosis using automated software: correlation with spirometry in the evaluation of severity
Authors: Santos Marcel Koenigkam , Cruvinel Danilo Lemos , Menezes Marcelo Bezerra de , Teixeira Sara Reis , Vianna Elcio de Oliveira , Elias Júnior Jorge , Martinez José Antonio Baddini
Published: October 2016

Abstract Objective: To perform a quantitative analysis of the airways using automated software, in computed tomography images of patients with cystic fibrosis, correlating the results with spirometric findings. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four patients with cystic fibrosis were studied-20 males and 14 females; mean age 18 ± 9 years-divided into two groups according to the spirometry findings: group I (n = 21), without severe airflow obstruction (forced expiratory volume in first second [FEV1] > 50% predicted), and group II (n = 13), with severe obstruction (FEV1 ≤ 50% predicted). The following tracheobronchial tree parameters were obtained automatically: bronchial diameter, area, thickness, and wall attenuation. Results: On average, 52 bronchi per patient were studied. The number of bronchi analyzed was higher in group II. The correlation with spirometry findings, especially between the relative wall thickness of third to eighth bronchial generation and predicted FEV1, was better in group I. Conclusion: Quantitative analysis of the airways by computed tomography can be useful for assessing disease severity in cystic fibrosis patients. In patients with severe airflow obstruction, the number of bronchi studied by the method is higher, indicating more bronchiectasis. In patients without severe obstruction, the relative bronchial wall thickness showed a good correlation with the predicted FEV1.
A dinâmica do emprego na indústria brasileira: comportamento recente (2006-2010) e o efeito de restrições de mão de obra especializada
Authors: Domingues Edson Paulo , Souza Kênia Barreiro de , Cardoso Débora Freire , Carvalho Terciane Sabadini , Santiago Flaviane Souza , Magalhães Aline Souza , Betarelli Júnior Admir Antônio
Published: October 2016

Resumo O comportamento da economia brasileira entre 2003-2008 pareceu indicar que o crescimento da indústria defrontava-se com a dificuldade de contratação de mão de obra especializada, como técnicos e engenheiros. Essa escassez pode representar um obstáculo ao desenvolvimento do país, especialmente ao dificultar a expansão de setores de maior conteúdo tecnológico. Este artigo analisa os efeitos da escassez de trabalho especializado na economia brasileira, com especial atenção aos setores relacionados à indústria. Utiliza-se um modelo de equilíbrio geral computável especialmente capacitado para as questões tratadas no artigo. Os resultados das simulações indicam o impacto expressivo da dinâmica do investimento na demanda por engenheiros e técnicos; e que restrições no crescimento da oferta dessa mão de obra podem afetar principalmente a indústria de bens de capital e de insumos intermediários, relevantes para um amplo conjunto de setores da economia.
Capital humano e desigualdade salarial no Brasil: uma análise de decomposição para o período 1995-2014
Authors: Silva Vitor Hugo Miro Couto , França João Mário Santos de , Pinho Neto Valdemar Rodrigues de
Published: October 2016

Resumo Este artigo investiga fatores que podem explicar a redução da desigualdade salarial no Brasil entre 1995 e 2014, utilizando um método sugerido por Yun (2006). Este método corresponde a uma junção de outras duas formas de decomposição: Juhn Murphy e Pierce (1993) e Fields (2003). A aplicação conjunta dessas metodologias proporciona um maior nível de detalhamento no exercício de decomposição, ao permitir obter os efeitos preço e quantidade associados a cada uma das variáveis explicativas da equação de salários. Os resultados encontrados, com base nos dados da PNAD, mostram que a recente queda da desigualdade salarial foi devida, essencialmente, à acumulação de capital humano, enquanto fricções no mercado de trabalho (segmentação e discriminação) parecem ter desempenhado um papel secundário nesse processo. O efeito preço associado ao capital humano foi o principal responsável por essa redução e, em particular, a queda dos retornos educacionais teve papel de destaque nesse resultado.
Determinantes macroeconômicos e o papel das expectativas: uma análise do spread bancário no Brasil (2003-2011)
Authors: Silva Tarciso Gouveia da , Ribeiro Eduardo Pontual , Modenesi André de Melo
Published: October 2016

Resumo A teoria econômica reconhece a importância das expectativas para a tomada de decisão dos agentes econômicos em um ambiente dinâmico sem previsibilidade perfeita. Apesar de relativamente extensa, a literatura sobre spread bancário no Brasil trata desta questão apenas de forma superficial, não incluindo variáveis macroeconômicas expectacionais. Estas expectativas, que podem afetar as estratégias da firma bancária no processo de maximização de sua rentabilidade, são rotineiramente coletadas e divulgadas pela autoridade monetária e de regulação bancária brasileira e por outras entidades. Incorporamos estas variáveis em um modelo empírico dinâmico de determinação do spread bancário específico de cada banco, seguindo a abordagem de Maudos e Solís (2009). Os dados são trimestrais e a amostra vai de 2003 a 2011. Os resultados corroboram a hipótese aqui proposta de que as variáveis macroeconômicas expectacionais, como a inflação esperada e os juros futuros, são relevantes na determinação do spread bancário no Brasil, mesmo condicional a seus valores correntes.
Ecos popperianos na metodologia econômica de Elinor Ostrom
Authors: Guedes Sebastião Neto Ribeiro , Carvalho Enéas Gonçalves de
Published: October 2016

Resumo O artigo procura apresentar e analisar a discussão metodológica em economia empreendida por Elinor Ostrom, buscando identificar nela a influência da epistemologia popperiana. A ênfase voltou-se para os conceitos de Princípio da Racionalidade e de Análise Situacional, com os quais Popper contribuiu para a metodologia das Ciências Sociais. O artigo mostrou que esses conceitos encontraram equivalentes na análise da autora, e que Ostrom não apenas reconhece a importância da contribuição popperiana, mas dela faz o ponto de partida para sua proposta metodológica aplicada à governança de recursos comuns. O artigo refere-se, também, ao fato de que ao longo do tempo a metodologia dessa autora gradativamente abre a uma interlocução metodológica mais plural, conservando, no entanto, aspectos essenciais do projeto popperiano para a metodologia em Ciências Sociais, entre os quais a adesão ao individualismo metodológico.
Trajetória de crescimento para microempreendedores: diferencial de gênero dos clientes do programa crediamigo
Authors: Mendonça Kamila Vieira de , Soares Ricardo Brito
Published: October 2016

Resumo Os programas de microcrédito vêm se expandindo em diversos países como alternativa para inserção produtiva dos microempreendedores de baixa renda. Na maioria dos casos, os programas possuem um viés na alocação dos empréstimos em favor das mulheres, assumindo que estas absorvem os compromissos de pagamentos como o fazem com suas responsabilidades familiares e sociais. Desta forma, as mulheres microempreendedoras teriam trajetórias de crescimento mais conservadoras. O objetivo deste trabalho é verificar se existe uma trajetória de crescimento para esse tipo de clientela, e se ela é diferenciada em relação ao gênero. Para isto, estimam-se equações de crescimento para os microempreendimentos dos clientes do Programa Crediamigo para o período de 2005 a 2009. Utilizam-se modelos lineares de efeitos mistos, como proposto por Rabe-Hesketh e Skrondal (2012). Os resultados mostram que existe uma trajetória de crescimento, mas com retornos decrescentes. Adicionalmente, as taxas médias de retorno são um pouco maiores para os homens; porém as mulheres possuem menores riscos em suas trajetórias.
LATE EVALUATION OF PATIENTS OPERATED FOR GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE BY NISSEN FUNDOPLICATION
Authors: RIBEIRO Maxwel Capsy Boga , ARAÚJO Amanda Bueno de , TERRA-JÚNIOR Juverson Alves , CREMA Eduardo , ANDREOLLO Nelson Adami
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Surgical treatment of GERD by Nissen fundoplication is effective and safe, providing good results in the control of the disease. However, some authors have questioned the efficacy of this procedure and few studies on the long-term outcomes are available in the literature, especially in Brazil. Aim: To evaluate patients operated for gastro-esophageal reflux disease, for at least 10 years, by Nissen fundoplication. Methods: Thirty-two patients were interviewed and underwent upper digestive endoscopy, esophageal manometry, 24 h pH monitoring and barium esophagogram, before and after Nissen fundoplication. Results: Most patients were asymptomatic, satisfied with the result of surgery (87.5%) 10 years after operation, due to better symptom control compared with preoperative and, would do it again (84.38%). However, 62.5% were in use of some type of anti-reflux drugs. The manometry revealed lower esophageal sphincter with a mean pressure of 11.7 cm H2O and an average length of 2.85 cm. The average DeMeester index in pH monitoring was 11.47. The endoscopy revealed that most patients had a normal result (58.06%) or mild esophagitis (35.48%). Barium swallow revealed mild esophageal dilatation in 25,80% and hiatal hernia in 12.9% of cases. Conclusion: After at least a decade, most patients were satisfied with the operation, asymptomatic or had milder symptoms of GERD, being better and with easier control, compared to the preoperative period. Nevertheless, a considerable percentage still employed anti-reflux medications.
PROGNOSTIC FACTORS AND SURVIVAL ANALYSIS IN ESOPHAGEAL CARCINOMA
Authors: TUSTUMI Francisco , KIMURA Cintia Mayumi Sakurai , TAKEDA Flavio Roberto , UEMA Rodrigo Hideki , SALUM Rubens Antônio Aissar , RIBEIRO-JUNIOR Ulysses , CECCONELLO Ivan
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Despite recent advances in diagnosis and treatment, esophageal cancer still has high mortality. Prognostic factors associated with patient and with disease itself are multiple and poorly explored. Aim: Assess prognostic variables in esophageal cancer patients. Methods: Retrospective review of all patients with esophageal cancer in an oncology referral center. They were divided according to histological diagnosis (444 squamous cell carcinoma patients and 105 adenocarcinoma), and their demographic, pathological and clinical characteristics were analyzed and compared to clinical stage and overall survival. Results: No difference was noted between squamous cell carcinoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma overall survival curves. Squamous cell carcinoma presented 22.8% survival after five years against 20.2% for adenocarcinoma. When considering only patients treated with curative intent resection, after five years squamous cell carcinoma survival rate was 56.6 and adenocarcinoma, 58%. In patients with squamous cell carcinoma, poor differentiation histology and tumor size were associated with worse oncology stage, but this was not evidenced in adenocarcinoma. Conclusion: Weight loss (kg), BMI variation (kg/m²) and percentage of weight loss are factors that predict worse stage at diagnosis in the squamous cell carcinoma. In adenocarcinoma, these findings were not statistically significant.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PRESENCE OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI WITH INFLAMMATORY ENDOSCOPIC CHANGES IN GASTRODUODENAL MUCOSA
Authors: RIBEIRO Irma Cláudia Saboya , KUBRUSLY Luiz Fernandao , NASSIF Paulo Afonso Nunes , RIBEIRO Patrícia Fernanda Saboya , VERAS Rodrigo de Oliveira , NEPPEL Aline
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: The influence of Helicobacter pylori (HP) in inflammatory disorders of the digestive mucosa has been the subject of several studies since socioeconomic, personal and environmental factors were implicated in the bacteria transmission. Aim: To correlate the inflammatory endoscopic findings with HP infection and the onset of mucosal diseases mucous of the upper digestive tract. Method: Comparative observational study, in which were collected data from 2247 patients who underwent upper endoscopy and biopsies for HP with urease test. The patients were divided into two groups: HP+ and HP- (control) in which endoscopic findings were observed for the following changes: esophagitis, esophageal ulcer, gastritis, erosive gastritis, gastric ulcer, bulboduodenitis, bulbar ulcer and without disease. Results: As for esophagitis, there was little disparity in the distribution favorable to HP+ group (HP+ =67.11% and HP- =69.89%) and esophageal ulcer (HP+ =0% and HP- =0, 21%). Gastritis was favorable to HP- group (HP+ =78.34% and HP- =73.63%), as well as erosive gastritis (HP+ = 67,11% and HP- = 64,55%), in bulboduodenitis (HP+ =1,87% and HP- 1,23%), in gastric ulcer (HP+ =2,14% and HP- =2,03%) and in the absence of alterations in the HP+ group (4.81%) with the HP- control group (6,30%), in which there was little disproportion in favor of HP- group, but without statistical significance. As for the bulbar ulcer (HP +=10.16% and HP- =4.48%), there was statistically significant (p=0.00001). Conclusion: There is no difference between HP+ and HP- groups in inflammatory changes in endoscopic gastroduodenal mucosa, except for the relationship between HP and bulbar ulcer.
PREVALENCE OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI TEN YEARS AGO COMPARED TO THE CURRENT PREVALENCE IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING UPPER ENDOSCOPY
Authors: FRUGIS Sandra , CZECZKO Nicolau Gregori , MALAFAIA Osvaldo , PARADA Artur Adolfo , POLETTI Paula Bechara , SECCHI Thiago Festa , DEGIOVANI Matheus , RAMPANAZZO-NETO Alécio , D´AGOSTINO Mariza D.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Helicobacter pylori has been extensively studied since 1982 it is estimated that 50% of the world population is affected. The literature lacks studies that show the change of its prevalence in the same population over time. Aim: To compare the prevalence of H. pylori in 10 years interval in a population that was submitted to upper endoscopy in the same endoscopy service. Method: Observational, retrospective and cross-sectional study comparing the prevalence of H. pylori in two samples with 10 years apart (2004 and 2014) who underwent endoscopy with biopsy and urease. Patients were studied in three consecutive months of 2004, compared to three consecutive months of 2014. The total number of patients was 2536, and 1406 in 2004 and 1130 in 2014. Results: There were positive for H. pylori in 17 % of the sample as a whole. There was a significant decrease in the prevalence from 19.3% in 2004 to 14.1% in 2014 (p<0.005). Conclusion: There was a 5.2% reduction in the prevalence of H. pylori comparing two periods of three consecutive months with 10 years apart in two equivalent population samples.
LONG TERM RESULTS AFTER STAPLED HEMORRHOIDOPEXY ALONE AND COMPLEMENTED BY EXCISIONAL HEMORRHOIDECTOMY: A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: ARAUJO Sergio Eduardo Alonso , HORCEL Lucas de Araujo , SEID Victor Edmond , BERTONCINI Alexandre Bruno , KLAJNER Sidney
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is associated with less postoperative pain and faster recovery. However, it may be associated with a greater risk of symptomatic recurrence. We hypothesized that undertaking a limited surgical excision of hemorrhoid disease after stapling may be a valid approach for selected patients. Aim: To compare long-term results after stapled hemorrhoidopexy with and without complementation with closed excisional technique. Method: In a retrospective uni-institutional cohort study, sixty-five (29 men) patients underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy and 21 (13 men) underwent stapled hemorrhoidopexy with excision. The same surgeons operated on all cases. Patients underwent stapled hemorrhoidectomy associated with excisional surgery if symptoms attributable to external hemorrhoid piles were observed preoperatively, or if residual prolapse or bulky external disease was observed after the firing of the stapler. A closed excisional diathermy hemorrhoidectomy without vascular ligation was utilized in all complemented cases. All clinical variables were obtained from a questionnaire evaluation obtained through e-mail, telephone interview, or office follow-up. Results: The median duration of postoperative follow-up was 48.5 (6-40) months. Patients with grades 3 and 4 hemorrhoid disease were operated on more frequently using stapled hemorrhoidopexy complemented with excisional technique (95.2% vs. 55.4%, p=0.001). Regarding respectively stapled hemorrhoidopexy and stapled hemorrhoidopexy complemented with excision, there was no difference between the techniques in relation to symptom recurrence (43% and 33%, p=0.45) and median interval between surgery and symptom recurrence (30 (8-84) and 38.8 (8-65) months, p=0.80). Eight (12.3%) patients were re-operated after stapled hemorrhoidopexy and 2 (9.6%), after hemorrhoidopexy with excision (p=0.78). Patient distribution in both groups according to the degree of postoperative satisfaction was similar (p=0.97). Conclusion: Stapled hemorrhoidopexy combined with an excisional technique was effective for more advanced hemorrhoid disease. The combination may have prevented symptomatic recurrence associated to stapled hemorrhoidopexy alone.
ANTIBIOTIC PROPHYLAXIS IN LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECISTECTOMY: IS IT WORTH DOING?
Authors: PASSOS Márcio Alexandre Terra , PORTARI-FILHO Pedro Eder
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy has very low risk for infectious complications, ranging the infection rate from 0.4% to 1.1%. Many surgeons still use routine antibiotic prophylaxis Aim: Evaluate the real impact of antibiotic prophylaxis in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies in low risk patients. Method: Prospective, randomized and double-blind study. Were evaluated 100 patients that underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy divided in two groups: group A (n=50), patients that received prophylaxis using intravenous Cephazolin (2 g) during anesthetic induction and group B (n=50), patients that didn't receive any antibiotic prophylaxis. The outcome evaluated were infeccious complications at surgical site. The patients were reviewed seven and 30 days after surgery. Results: There was incidence of 2% in infection complications in group A and 2% in group B. There was no statistical significant difference of infectious complications (p=0,05) between the groups. The groups were homogeneous and comparable. Conclusion: The use of the antibiotic prophylaxis in laparoscopic cholecystectomy in low risk patients doesn't provide any significant benefit in the decrease of surgical wound infection.
ESTIMATING BASAL ENERGY EXPENDITURE IN LIVER TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS: THE VALUE OF THE HARRIS-BENEDICT EQUATION
Authors: PINTO Andressa S. , CHEDID Marcio F. , GUERRA Léa T. , ÁLVARES-DA-SILVA Mario R. , ARAÚJO Alexandre de , GUIMARÃES Luciano S. , LEIPNITZ Ian , CHEDID Aljamir D. , KRUEL Cleber R. P. , GREZZANA-FILHO Tomaz J. M. , KRUEL Cleber D. P.
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Reliable measurement of basal energy expenditure (BEE) in liver transplant (LT) recipients is necessary for adapting energy requirements, improving nutritional status and preventing weight gain. Indirect calorimetry (IC) is the gold standard for measuring BEE. However, BEE may be estimated through alternative methods, including electrical bioimpedance (BI), Harris-Benedict Equation (HBE), and Mifflin-St. Jeor Equation (MSJ) that carry easier applicability and lower cost. Aim: To determine which of the three alternative methods for BEE estimation (HBE, BI and MSJ) would provide most reliable BEE estimation in LT recipients. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional study including dyslipidemic LT recipients in follow-up at a 735-bed tertiary referral university hospital. Comparisons of BEE measured through IC to BEE estimated through each of the three alternative methods (HBE, BI and MSJ) were performed using Bland-Altman method and Wilcoxon Rank Sum test. Results: Forty-five patients were included, aged 58±10 years. BEE measured using IC was 1664±319 kcal for males, and 1409±221 kcal for females. Average difference between BEE measured by IC (1534±300 kcal) and BI (1584±377 kcal) was +50 kcal (p=0.0384). Average difference between the BEE measured using IC (1534±300 kcal) and MSJ (1479.6±375 kcal) was -55 kcal (p=0.16). Average difference between BEE values measured by IC (1534±300 kcal) and HBE (1521±283 kcal) was -13 kcal (p=0.326). Difference between BEE estimated through IC and HBE was less than 100 kcal for 39 of all 43patients. Conclusions: Among the three alternative methods, HBE was the most reliable for estimating BEE in LT recipients.
POST-REPERFUSION LIVER BIOPSY AND ITS VALUE IN PREDICTING MORTALITY AND GRAFT DYSFUNCTION AFTER LIVER TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: ZANCHET Marcos Vinícius , SILVA Larissa Luvison Gomes da , MATIAS Jorge Eduardo Fouto , COELHO Júlio Cezar Uili
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: The outcome of the patients after liver transplant is complex and to characterize the risk for complications is not always easy. In this context, the hepatic post-reperfusion biopsy is capable of portraying alterations of prognostic importance. Aim: To compare the results of liver transplantation, correlating the different histologic features of the hepatic post-reperfusion biopsy with graft dysfunction, primary non-function and patient survival in the first year after transplantation. Method: From the 377 transplants performed from 1996 to 2008, 164 patients were selected. Medical records were reviewed and the following clinical outcomes were registered: mortality in 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, graft dysfunction in varied degrees and primary graft non-function. The post-reperfusion biopsies had been examined by a blinded pathologist for the outcomes. The following histological variables had been evaluated: ischemic alterations, congestion, steatosis, neutrophilic exudate, monomorphonuclear infiltrate and necrosis. Results: The variables associated with increased mortality were: steatosis (p=0.02209), monomorphonuclear infiltrate (p=0.03935) and necrosis (p<0.00001). The neutrophilic exudate reduced mortality in this study (p=0.00659). The primary non-function showed significant association (p<0.05) with the necrosis, steatosis and the monomorphonuclear infiltrate. Conclusion: Post-reperfusion biopsy is useful tool to foresee complications after liver transplant.
LAPAROSCOPICALLY ASSISTED ANORECTOPLASTY AND THE USE OF THE BIPOLAR DEVICE TO SEAL THE RECTAL URINARY FISTULA
Authors: DUTRA Robson Azevedo , BOSCOLLO Adriana Cartafina Perez
Published: October 2016

ABSTRACT Background: The anorectal anomalies consist in a complex group of birth defects. Laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty improved visualization of the rectal fistula and the ability to place the pull-through segment within the elevator muscle complex with minimal dissection. There is no consensus on how the fistula should be managed. Aim: To evaluate the laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty and the treatment of the rectal urinary fistula by a bipolar sealing device. Method: It was performed according to the original description by Georgeson1. Was used 10 mm infraumbilical access portal for 30º optics. The pneumoperitoneum was established with pressure 8-10 cm H2O. Two additional trocars of 5 mm were placed on the right and left of the umbilicus. The dissection started on peritoneal reflection using Ligasure(r). With the reduction in the diameter of the distal rectum was identified the fistula to the urinary tract. The location of the new anus was defined by the location of the external anal sphincter muscle complex, using electro muscle stimulator externally. Finally, it was made an anastomosis between the rectum and the new location of the anus. A Foley urethral probe was left for seven days. Results: Seven males were operated, six with rectoprostatic and one with rectovesical fistula. The follow-up period ranged from one to four years. The last two patients operated underwent bipolar sealing of the fistula between the rectum and urethra without sutures or surgical ligation. No evidence of urethral leaks was identified. Conclusion: There are benefits of the laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty for the treatment of anorectal anomaly. The use of a bipolar energy source that seals the rectal urinary fistula has provided a significant decrease in the operating time and made the procedure be more elegant.
Advertisement and courtship calls of Dendropsophus nanus (Boulenger, 1889) (Anura: Hylidae) from its type locality (Resistencia, Argentina)
Authors: Teixeira Bernardo Franco da Veiga , Zaracho Víctor Hugo , Giaretta Ariovaldo Antonio
Published: October 2016

Abstract Dendropsophus nanus was described from Resistencia, Argentina. The species distribution is widespread in South America east of the Andes. Despite its wide distribution, little information about its advertisement call is available in the literature. Call descriptions from type localities are especially important for the resolution of taxonomic issues, as well as for intraspecific comparisons. Herein we describe the advertisement and the male courtship calls of D. nanus from its type locality. The advertisement call of D. nanus is composed of two types of pulsed notes, herein referred to as “note A” (long note) and “note B” (short note), both with similar dominant frequencies, but different durations. The courtship call is formed by notes that are similar to notes A of the advertisement call, but emitted at lower amplitude. Previous studies demonstrated that the complex call of Eleutherodactylus coqui and Geocrinia victoriana convey separated messages to male and female. Although several previous experiments have been conducted to assess the acoustic interactions of some species of Dendropsophus, more studies are necessary to understand the functions of the two notes of the advertisement call of D. nanus and the calls of other species of the D. microcephalus group.
Investigação do fenômeno ilha de calor urbana através da utilização da placa Arduíno e de um sítio oficial de meteorologia
Authors: Santos A. A. M. , Amorim H. S. , Dereczynski C. P.
Published: October 2016

Estudos de fenômenos relacionados ao clima geralmente são ótimas oportunidades para se contextualizar o ensino de Física, principalmente a Física Térmica. Duas atividades são propostas: i) construção de pequenas estações meteorológicas, baseadas na placa Arduíno, produzidas com PVC (policloreto de vinila) e que poderão ser facilmente reproduzidas a um custo baixo e ii) Obtenção de dados meteorológicos através do sítio do Alerta Rio. As atividades propostas têm como objetivo permitir, através de conhecimentos de Física, que os estudantes compreendam o fenômeno ilha de calor urbana e se conscientizem de suas graves implicações para o bem estar das populações urbanas e do meio ambiente.
Determinação da Massa e Dados Orbitais de Exoplanetas pelo Método Doppler
Authors: Amorim R.G.G. , Santos W. C.
Published: October 2016

O Método Doppler, também denominado método das velocidades radiais, é uma técnica utilizada na detecção de exoplanetas. Cerca de 70% dos planetas extra-solares conhecidos foram determinados utilizando esta técnica. O Método Doppler consiste em determinar os deslocamentos espectrais da estrela hospedeira, os quais possibilitam a mensuração da variação da velocidade radial com que a estrela hospedeira se aproxima ou se afasta da Terra. Este movimento da estrela hospedeira em torno do centro de massa ocorre devido à presença do exoplaneta. Neste trabalho, apresentamos uma revisão pedagógica sobre o Método Doppler aplicado à detecção de exoplanetas. A discussão permeia desde elementos teóricos fundamentais para a compreensão da técnica de detecção extrapola até o estudo de sua aplicação.
Atividade experimental "hands-on" para o estudo das características de um gerador (pilha voltaica) e de um recetor (voltâmetro) com material simples, de fácil acesso e baixo custo
Authors: Oliveira Filipa , Paixão José António
Published: October 2016

No âmbito de um amplo estudo sobre o ensino experimental da Física foram investigadas algumas causas dos problemas dos alunos portugueses nesta área. Para ajudar a solucionar estes problemas, procurámos intervir e desenvolver um conjunto de kits experimentais com vários graus de complexidade, que foram aplicados a duas amostras de estudantes (alunos da pré-seleção olímpica e alunos de escolas secundárias em Portugal). Neste artigo é apresentada uma das experiências simples destes kits "Estudo das características de um gerador (pilha voltaica) e de um recetor (voltâmetro)" que foi testada em ambiente de sala de aula, em algumas escolas. O voltâmetro é construído pelos alunos recorrendo a materiais de baixo custo e fácil acesso. Apresentamos algumas sugestões metodológicas disponibilizadas aos professores e os resultados das experiências nos grupos experimental e de controlo.
REDES EM CONEXÃO COM A TEORIA ATOR-REDE NA PSICOLOGIA NO BRASIL
Authors: Méllo Ricardo Pimentel , Spink Mary Jane , Menegon Vera Mincoff
Published: October 2016

RESUMO O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar alguns usos da Teoria Ator-Rede (TAR) por psicólogos no Brasil. Para tanto, elegemos como foco analítico artigos indexados no Qualis Capes da Psicologia, observando os seguintes aspectos: temas afins; materialidades envolvidas; metodologias; estratégias de análises. Concluímos que a TAR é utilizada desde 1997 em publicações na área da Psicologia e em especial na subárea Psicologia Social, com questionamentos às bases epistemológicas advindas da tradição científica experimentalista moderna e, principalmente, problematizando a centralidade do ser humano como foco e origem do conhecimento. Bruno Latour, John Law e Annemarie Mol foram os principais autores utilizados nos artigos analisados. A introdução da teoria se deu por meio de duas redes de pesquisa: Rio de Janeiro associada à parceria UFF, UERJ e UFRJ e, em São Paulo, parceria PUC/SP e UAB/Barcelona.