bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powder Selection in Cosintering Multi-layered Ceramic Functionally Graded Materials Based on the Densification Kinetics Curves
Authors: Li Sun  , Sneller Adam , Kwon Patrick
Published: March 2009

In the cosintering process to fabricate a multi-layered ceramic functionally graded material (FGM), the difference in the sintering behaviors among the layers can cause cracks or camber to form. One way to reduce the likelihood of cracks or camber in the FGM is to use powders with similar transient densification kinetics for a given set of sintering conditions. In this study, the densification kinetics characteristics of several alumina powder mixtures and zirconia powder mixtures were investigated using a thermomechanical analyzer (TMA). By comparing the densification data for the alumina and zirconia powder mixtures, a set of mixtures that exhibits a similar transient densification kinetics was found. Using this set of powders, a three-layered alumina/alumina+zirconia/ zirconia FGM was successfully fabricated without cracks or camber.
Modeling Energy Absorption with a Damage Mechanics Based Composite Material Model
Authors: Xinran Xiao
Published: March 2009

The Matzenmiller—Lubliner—Taylor (MLT) model, a continuum damage mechanics (CDM) based model, was used in modeling energy absorption of composite structures in crashworthiness applications. It was found that the assumption of linear elastic unloading and reloading in MLT model resulted in a lower calculated energy absorption in thin wall composite tube axial crush simulations. A modification to compressive unloading was proposed and tested in an MLT-based user material model. The modified model improved the stability of the tube crush simulation and the simulation results. This study demonstrates the importance of properly representing the unloading response of damaged composites in energy absorption prediction.
`Songese': maternal structuring of musical interaction with infants
Authors: Longhi Elena
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate the temporal structure of mother—infant interactions with songs, with particular attention to two aspects: 1) the singing of the mothers to their infants, and 2) the non-verbal behaviours mothers and infants produce in synchrony with the musical beat. Four mother—infant dyads were video-recorded when the infants were 3—4 months of age and again when they were 7—8 months old. Mothers were asked to sing songs of their choice while interacting with their infants. Analyses of the mothers' singing and synchronous behaviours with the beat revealed that they emphasized the hierarchical structure of the song and provided a segmentation of the temporal structure of the interaction. Infants were shown to be sensitive to their mothers' emphasis by producing significantly more synchronous behaviours on some beats than on others. It is suggested that the multimodal sensory information provided by the mothers ensures the infants' effective learning and conveys the characteristics of what could be called `songese' — the equivalent of `motherese'.
From the functions of music to music preference
Authors: Schäfer Thomas , Sedlmeier Peter
Published: March 2009

To date, not much is known about how the functions of music relate to music preference. This article examines the basic hypothesis that the strength of preference for a given kind of music depends on the degree to which that kind of music serves the needs of the listener; that is, how well the respective functions of music are fulfilled. Study 1, a pilot study, identified the best-known musical styles of the participants, yielding 25 styles that were known by at least 10 percent of them. Study 2 used these 25 styles and found that rock, pop and classical music were liked most. A factor analysis yielded six distinct dimensions of music preference. People showed great variation in the strength of preference for their favourite music. This is explained by the impact of different functions of music. The potential of music to express people's identity and values and to bring them together was most closely related to the strength of preference. However, the reasons for liking a particular style are not congruent with the functions that people ascribe to their favourite music in general. A theoretical model of the development of music preferences is suggested.
Immediate cross-hypersensitivity between Micafungin and Caspofungin: A case report
Authors: Patel Shruti , Alangaden George J , Lum Larry G , Cronin Simon M , Abidi Muneer H , Dieterle Natalie , Ibrahim Rami B
Published: March 2009

A hematopoietic stem cell transplant patient with a history of immediate drug hypersensitivity reaction to micafungin was considered for a caspofungin trial. A caspofungin intradermal skin test was performed. The result was positive, suggesting the presence of cross-reactivity and that the cyclic peptide nucleus chemical structure shared between echinocandins is the site of IgE recognition. It is recommended to avoid challenging patients with history of immediate hypersensitivity to one echinocandin with another.
Severe hiccups during chemotherapy: corticosteroids the likely culprit
Authors: Gilbar Peter , McPherson Ian
Published: March 2009

Hiccups generally are self-limiting and of short duration. Those lasting more than 48 h or recurring at frequent intervals are termed persistent. There are numerous causes of hiccups, with medications implicated only rarely. While hiccups are usually benign, severe attacks may lead to exhaustion, eating difficulties, and affect quality of life. We report a case of severe hiccups in a patient receiving chemotherapy (oxaliplatin, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin) for metastatic colorectal cancer. Hiccups began on the day following chemotherapy and continued constantly for over 30 h until relief was obtained by sucking the juice of a fresh lemonade. A similar pattern occurred in the next two chemotherapy cycles. Dexamethasone had been prescribed as prophylaxis against emesis and this was considered a possible cause. Withholding dexamethasone in the next cycle led to elimination of hiccups without having an impact on control of nausea and vomiting. A number of case reports have linked corticosteroids, particularly dexamethasone, to the occurrence of hiccups. Antineoplastic agents have occasionally been reported as causing hiccups; however, in most of these cases, corticosteroids, as part of the treatment protocol or as antiemetics, may have been a more likely cause. This case serves an as important reminder that adverse effects appearing during chemotherapy may not necessarily be due to antineoplastic agents. In the case of hiccups, oncology health professionals should review all medications and non drug-related factors before assigning causality. J Oncol Pharm Practice (2009) 15: 233—236.
AE Monitoring for Damage Assessment of RC Exterior Beam-column Subassemblages Subjected to Cyclic Loading
Authors: Benavent-Climent Amadeo , Castro Enrique , Gallego Antolino
Published: March 2009

This paper ascertains that Acoustic Emission (AE) monitoring is very effective for assessing the damage of reinforced concrete wide beam-column connections subjected to earthquake-type loadings. A cyclic test is conducted on an exterior connection until its failure. The experimental results show a strong correlation between the hysteretic strain energy and the AE energy histories. For this reason, a tentative formula is proposed, to predict the level of damage and the closeness to failure of the connection on the basis of the AE recorded by one piezoelectric sensor located near the critical zone (i.e., the beam-end and beam-column joint).
Models of Instruction Used in Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Programs
Authors: Hadley Amy Jean , Fulcomer Mark C.
Published: March 2009

To meet the needs of a diverse student population while addressing the knowledge and skills outcomes of the curriculum, faculty should develop a repertoire of instructional models. Research-based instructional models from the fields of education and health care have been developed to support various learner outcomes. Emphasis on evidence-based practice in the field of communication sciences and disorders should include increased study of research-based instructional practices in higher education. The present study examined the models of instruction currently implemented by professors in speech-language pathology graduate programs. Problem-based learning and induction were used most frequently, followed by direct instruction. Cooperative learning, memory strategy instruction, and role play were used less frequently. Results suggest that instructors are utilizing a variety of instructional models to meet learning outcomes. Implications for the use of models of instruction, as well as future directions for research, are discussed.
Sense of Effort Determines Lower Limb Force Production During Dynamic Movement in Individuals With Poststroke Hemiparesis
Authors: Simon Ann M. , Kelly Brian M. , Ferris Daniel P.
Published: March 2009

Objective. This study’s purpose was to determine if individuals who have had a stroke primarily use sense of effort to gauge force production during static and dynamic lower limb contractions. If relying on sense of effort while attempting to generate equal limb forces, participants should produce equal percentages of their maximum voluntary strength rather than equal absolute forces in their limbs. Methods. Ten stroke participants performed isometric and isotonic lower limb extensions on an exercise machine. Results. When participants attempted to produce equal bilateral isometric forces, there was a significant difference in absolute force between limbs (ANOVA, P < .0001) but no significant difference when force was normalized to each limb’s maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) force ( P = .5129). During bilateral isotonic contractions, participants produced less absolute force in their paretic limb ( P = .0005) and less relative force in their paretic limb (normalized to MVC force) when participants were given no instructions on how to perform the extension ( P = .0002). When participants were instructed to produce equal forces, there was no significant difference between relative forces in the 2 limbs ( P = .2111). Conclusions. For both isometric and isotonic conditions hemiparetic participants relied primarily on sense of effort, rather than proprioceptive feedback, for gauging lower limb force production. This outcome indicates that sense of effort is the major factor determining force production during movements. Lower limb rehabilitation therapies should not only train strength in the paretic limb but should also train patients to recalibrate force-scaling abilities to improve function.
A study to determine whether the use of a preconnect urinary catheter system reduces the incidence of nosocomial urinary tract infections
Authors: Madeo M. , Barr B. , Owen E.
Published: March 2009

Nosocomial urinary tract infection (NUTI) is a common problem in the UK and is often related to the use of urinary catheters. In the UK urinary catheters account for approximately 25% of all healthcare associated infections and can have a considerable financial burden on the health service. Bacteria may gain entry into the bladder of a catheterised patient via the intra-luminal route especially if accidental disconnection arises. A prospective study was undertaken to determine the NUTI rates in patients using a preconnected catheter system compared to a traditional bag and catheter system on three medical wards. A total of 205 patients were included in the study. The catheter-associated urinary tract infection rate (CAUTI) in the baseline was 37.8 per 1,000 catheter days and 22.4 per 1,000 catheter days in the intervention group.

The rates of CAUTI were 41% lower in the intervention group. The data in this sample group suggests the use of the preconnected catheter offers some protection against infection. The use of the preconnected system is a new concept in the UK and further studies are required to evaluate its effectiveness. The results from this study suggest their use may help to reduce the risk of CAUTI in certain clinical areas.
Long-term tracheostomy care: How to do it
Authors: Björling Gunilla
Published: March 2009

Educational aims

To provide an overview of long-term tracheostomy care.

To increase the understanding of long-term tracheostomy care.

To increase knowledge about tube selection.

To improve understanding of how to avoid serious complications

The overall aim for long-term tracheostomy care is to help those with respiratory failure to achieve a high-quality active life. A long-term tracheostomy does not necessarily mean an increased need for hospital care. With an optimally fitted tracheostomy tube, patient and staff education and regular follow-ups, serious complications can be avoided. This article describes predictors of good long-term tracheostomy care, such as tube selection, indications of change and follow-up.
A role for CD81 on the late steps of HIV-1 replication in a chronically infected T cell line
Authors: Grigorov Boyan , Attuil-Audenis Valérie , Perugi Fabien , Nedelec Martine , Watson Sarah , Pique Claudine , Darlix Jean-Luc , Conjeaud Hélène , Muriaux Delphine
Published: March 2009

Background

HIV-1 uses cellular co-factors for virion formation and release. The virus is able to incorporate into the viral particles host cellular proteins, such as tetraspanins which could serve to facilitate HIV-1 egress. Here, we investigated the implication of several tetraspanins on HIV-1 formation and release in chronically infected T-lymphoblastic cells, a model that permits the study of the late steps of HIV-1 replication.

Results

Our data revealed that HIV-1 Gag and Env structural proteins co-localized with tetraspanins in the form of clusters. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that Gag proteins interact, directly or indirectly, with CD81, and less with CD82, in tetraspanin-enriched microdomains composed of CD81/CD82/CD63. In addition, when HIV-1 producing cells were treated with anti-CD81 antibodies, or upon CD81 silencing by RNA interference, HIV-1 release was significantly impaired, and its infectivity was modulated. Finally, CD81 downregulation resulted in Gag redistribution at the cell surface.

Conclusion

Our findings not only extend the notion that HIV-1 assembly can occur on tetraspanin-enriched microdomains in T cells, but also highlight a critical role for the tetraspanin CD81 on the late steps of HIV replication.
Toxicogenomic analysis of susceptibility to inhaled urban particulate matter in mice with chronic lung inflammation
Authors: Thomson Errol M , Williams Andrew , Yauk Carole L , Vincent Renaud
Published: March 2009

Background

Individuals with chronic lung disease are at increased risk of adverse health effects from airborne particulate matter. Characterization of underlying pollutant-phenotype interactions may require comprehensive strategies. Here, a toxicogenomic approach was used to investigate how inflammation modifies the pulmonary response to urban particulate matter.

Results

Transgenic mice with constitutive pulmonary overexpression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α under the control of the surfactant protein C promoter and wildtype littermates (C57BL/6 background) were exposed by inhalation for 4 h to particulate matter (0 or 42 mg/m3EHC-6802) and euthanized 0 or 24 h post-exposure. The low alveolar dose of particles (16 μg) did not provoke an inflammatory response in the lungs of wildtype mice, nor exacerbate the chronic inflammation in TNF animals. Real-time PCR confirmed particle-dependent increases of CYP1A1 (30–100%), endothelin-1 (20–40%), and metallothionein-II (20–40%) mRNA in wildtype and TNF mice (p < 0.05), validating delivery of a biologically-effective dose. Despite detection of striking genotype-related differences, including activation of immune and inflammatory pathways consistent with the TNF-induced pathology, and time-related effects attributable to stress from nose-only exposure, microarray analysis failed to identify effects of the inhaled particles. Remarkably, the presence of chronic inflammation did not measurably amplify the transcriptional response to particulate matter.

Conclusion

Our data support the hypothesis that health effects of acute exposure to urban particles are dominated by activation of specific physiological response cascades rather than widespread changes in gene expression.
Application of the Cloze Procedure to Evaluate Comprehension and Demonstrate Rewriting of Pharmacy Educational Materials
Authors: Miller Michael J , DeWitt Jane E , McCleeary Erin M , O'keefe Kelly J
Published: March 2009

Background:

Written materials are commonly used to communicate pharmacy-relevant information to patients. However, they are often composed at a level that limits comprehension, mitigating a well-intended effect.

Objective:

To (1) use the cloze procedure (a test designed to assess reading comprehension) to evaluate an individual's understanding of a pharmacy-relevant educational pamphlet; (2) compare results of the cloze procedure with the reading comprehension component of the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA); and (3) use results to demonstrate rewriting of the educational pamphlet.

Methods:

The cloze procedure was applied to a pharmacy-relevant educational pamphlet describing safe medication practices. A total of 162 subjects were recruited from university faculty, staff, and students; a local adult literacy center; and community senior centers. Subjects completed a background interview, the S-TOFHLA. and cloze procedure for the pharmacy-relevant educational pamphlet. S-TOFHLA and cloze procedure scores were described and compared. Cloze procedure responses were used to demonstrate revision of the pamphlet RESULTS: Of the 154 subjects analyzed, mean ± SD age was 56.5 ± 20.4 years. Subjects were predominantly white (93.5%), female (71.4%). and college graduates (42.2%). Mean score on the S-TOFHLA was 92.1%. A majority (95.5%, 147/154) of subjects demonstrated adequate functional health literacy. In contrast, mean score on the cloze procedure was 53.3%. Internal consistencies of the S-TOFHLA and the cloze procedure were 0.92 and 0.90, respectively. Scores on the cloze procedure and the S-TOFHLA were highly correlated (r = 0.71, p < 0.001), Performance on the cloze procedure indicated that 55.2% of subjects required supplemental teaching.

Conclusions:

In this highly educated, health-literate sample, a majority did not understand the pharmacy-relevant educational pamphlet despite adequate performance on a standard measure of health literacy. The cloze procedure can be used to assess comprehension of educational materials, solicit feedback from intended users, and guide the revision of educational materials.
Neoplasia in Prosimians: Case Series from a Captive Prosimian Population and Literature Review
Authors: Remick A. K. , Van Wettere A. J. , Williams C. V.
Published: March 2009

Neoplastic diseases in prosimians have been sporadically reported in the literature. To provide a comprehensive review of prosimian neoplasia, a retrospective evaluation of neoplasia in a large captive prosimian colony and an extensive literature review were performed. Primates that belong to the Order Primata, Suborder Prosimii with histologic evidence of neoplasia were included. One hundred twenty-three cases of spontaneous neoplasia were identified in 101 prosimians from the Duke Lemur Center, and 124 cases were reported in 116 prosimians in the literature. Overall, this review compiled a total of 247 neoplasms in 217 prosimians. Of the 217 affected animals, 88 of 217 were males (41%), 100 of 217 were females (46%), and sex was not reported in 29 of 217 (13%). Ages ranged from 2 days to 36 years. Prosimian families represented were Lemuridae (80/217 [37%]), Cheirogaleidae (61/217 [28%]), Galagidae (44/217 [20%]), Lorisidae (28/217 [13%]), and Indriidae (4/217 [2%]). The most commonly affected species were the gray mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus) (28/217 [13%]), thick-tailed greater bush baby (Otolemur crassicaudatus) (23/217 [11%]), and black lemur (Eulemur macaco) (19/217 [9%]). Organ systems affected, in order of descending occurrence, were digestive (75/247 [30%]), reproductive (40/247 [16%]), hematopoietic (34/247 [14%]), integumentary (28/247 [11%]), endocrine (26/247 [11%]), and urinary (17/247 [7%]). The respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular systems were infrequently affected. The most common neoplasms were hepatocellular (32/247 [13%]), lymphoma and/or leukemia (29/247 [12%]), biliary (15/247 [6%]), and mammary neoplasms (12/247 [5%]). This article should serve as a valuable reference for the types and relative frequencies of neoplasms that occur in prosimian species.
Entamoeba invadensMyositis in a Common Water Monitor Lizard(Varanus salvator)
Authors: Chia M.-Y. , Jeng C.-R. , Hsiao S.-H. , Lee A.-H. , Chen C.-Y. , Pang V. F.
Published: March 2009

Amoebiasis is one of the most common protozoal diseases of reptiles, but amoebic myositis has not been reported in any animal species. An 11-year-old, male common water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator) was found dead with several subacute ulcerated skin wounds. Gross examination revealed multiple discrete to coalescing, white-yellow to gray, caseous foci scattered in the skeletal muscles and liver. The mucosa of small intestine was thickened, red, and contained many variably sized, dark red ulcers, with depressed and hemorrhagic centers. Histopathologic examination revealed severe necrotizing and granulomatous myositis, hepatitis, and enteritis accompanied by large numbers of intralesional, 10-20-μm diameter, periodic acid-Schiff-positive, amoeboid protozoa. Gene sequence analysis of a 136-bp region of the 18S ribosomal RNA amplified by polymerase chain reaction revealed 98–100% similarity with Entamoeba invadens. Aside from intestinal and hepatic involvement, no other internal organs were affected. The muscular infection by E. invadens likely resulted from a combination of direct invasion of trophozoites via skin wounds and hematogenous spread.
Clara Cell Secretory Protein Is Reduced in Equine Recurrent Airway Obstruction
Authors: Katavolos P. , Ackerley C. A. , Viel L. , Clark M. E. , Wen X. , Bienzle D.
Published: March 2009

Horses are prone to recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), an inflammatory lung disease induced by repeated exposure to environmental mold, dust, and bacterial components. Active disease manifests with mucus hyperproduction, neutrophilic inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and coughing. Chronically affected animals have lung remodeling characterized by smooth muscle hyperplasia, collagen deposition, lymphoid hyperplasia, and impaired aerobic performance. Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP) counters inflammation in the lung, hence we hypothesized that CCSP depletion is a key feature of RAO in horses. Recombinant equine CCSP and specific antiserum were produced, and percutaneous lung biopsies were obtained from 3 healthy horses and from 3 RAO-affected horses before and after induction of RAO. CCSP relative gene expression in tissue, as well as protein concentration in lung lavage fluid, was determined. Immunocytochemical analysis, using both light and immunogold ultrastructural methods, demonstrated reduced CCSP staining in lung tissue of animals with RAO. Immunogold label in Clara cell granules was less in animals with chronic RAO than in normal animals, and absent in animals that had active disease. Median lung lavage CCSP concentration was 132 and 129 ng/ml in healthy horses, and 62 and 24 ng/ml in RAO horses before and after challenge, respectively. CCSP lung gene expression was significantly higher in healthy animals than in animals with chronic RAO. Together, these preliminary findings suggest that reduced production of CCSP and subcellular changes in Clara cells are features of chronic environmentally induced lung inflammation in horses.
Cutaneous and Systemic Poxviral Disease in Red(Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)and Gray(Sciurus carolinensis)Squirrels
Authors: Bangari D. S. , Miller M. A. , Stevenson G. W. , Thacker H. L. , Sharma A. , Mittal S. K.
Published: March 2009

From September 2005 through October 2006, fibromatosis was diagnosed in 2 red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) and 1 gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). All 3 squirrels had multifocal to coalescing, tan, firm alopecic cutaneous nodules. Two squirrels also had pulmonary nodules. Histologically, the cutaneous nodules had marked epidermal hyperplasia, with ballooning degeneration of keratinocytes, spongiosis, and eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions. The dermis was expanded by proliferation of atypical mesenchymal cells with cytoplasmic inclusions. Additional findings included pulmonary adenomatous hyperplasia with cytoplasmic inclusions, renal tubular epithelial hyperplasia with cytoplasmic inclusions, atypical mesenchymal proliferation in the liver, and atypical mesenchymal proliferation with cytoplasmic inclusions in the seminal vesicles. Ultrastructurally, poxviral particles were observed in skin scrapings and sections of cutaneous and pulmonary nodules. Polymerase chain reaction targeting the highly conserved Leporipoxvirus DNA polymerase gene was positive using DNA extracted from the cutaneous lesions of all 3 squirrels. Nucleotide sequence of the 390 base PCR amplicons was closely related to that of other members of the genus Leporipoxvirus. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of cutaneous and systemic poxviral disease in American red squirrels with molecular characterization of the squirrel fibroma virus.
Dopamine and Amphetamine Rapidly Increase Dopamine Transporter Trafficking to the Surface: Live-Cell Imaging Using Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Furman Cheryse A. , Chen Rong , Guptaroy Bipasha , Zhang Minjia , Holz Ronald W. , Gnegy Margaret
Published: March 2009

Rapid treatment (1 min) of rat striatal synaptosomes with low-dose amphetamine increases surface expression of the dopamine transporter (DAT). Using mouse neuroblastoma N2A cells, stably transfected with green fluorescent protein-DAT, we demonstrate the real-time substrate-induced rapid trafficking of DAT to the plasma membrane using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM). Both the physiological substrate, dopamine, and amphetamine began to increase surface DAT within 10 s of drug addition and steadily increased surface DAT until removal 2 min later. The substrate-induced rise in surface DAT was dose-dependent, was blocked by cocaine, and abated after drug removal. Although individual vesicle fusion was not visually detectable, exocytosis of DAT was blocked using both tetanus neurotoxin and botulinum neurotoxin C to cleave solubleN-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins. Notably, the dopamine-induced increase in surface DAT was cocaine-sensitive but D2-receptor independent. TIRFM data were confirmed in human DAT-N2A cells using biotinylation, and similar effects were detected in rat striatal synaptosomes. A specific inhibitor of protein kinase C-β blocked the substrate-mediated increase in surface DAT in both DAT-N2A cells and rat striatal synaptosomes. These data demonstrate that the physiological substrate, dopamine, and amphetamine rapidly increase the trafficking of DAT to the surface by a mechanism dependent on SNARE proteins and protein kinase C-β but independent of dopamine D2receptor activation. Importantly, this study suggests that the reuptake system is poised to rapidly increase its function during dopamine secretion to tightly regulate dopaminergic neurotransmission.
The Intralaminar Thalamic Nuclei Contribute to Remote Spatial Memory
Authors: Lopez Joëlle , Wolff Mathieu , Lecourtier Lucas , Cosquer Brigitte , Bontempi Bruno , Dalrymple-Alford John , Cassel Jean-Christophe
Published: March 2009

Recent studies have shown that the anterior (ATN) and lateral thalamic nuclei (including the intralaminar nuclei; ILN/LT) play different roles in memory processes. These nuclei have prominent direct and indirect connections with the hippocampal system and/or the prefrontal cortex and may thus participate in the time-dependent reorganization of memory traces during systems-level consolidation. We investigated whether ATN or ILN/LT lesions in rats influenced acquisition and subsequent retrieval of spatial memory in a Morris water maze. Retrieval was assessed with a probe trial after a short (5 d, recent memory) or a long (25 d, remote memory) postacquisition delay. The ATN group showed impaired acquisition compared with the Sham controls and ILN/LT groups, which did not differ during acquisition, and exhibited no preference for the target quadrant during the recent or remote memory probe trials. In contrast, probe trial performance in rats with ILN/LT lesions differed according to the age of the memory, with accurate spatial retrieval for the recent memory probe trial but impaired retrieval during the remote memory one. These findings confirm that ATN but not ILN/LT lesions disrupt the acquisition of spatial memory and provide new evidence that the ILN/LT region contributes to remote memory processing. Thus, the lateral thalamus may modulate some aspects of remote memory formation and/or retrieval during the course of systems-level consolidation.
In VivoEvidence for NMDA Receptor-Mediated Excitotoxicity in a Murine Genetic Model of Huntington Disease
Authors: Heng Mary Y. , Detloff Peter J. , Wang Phillip L. , Tsien Joe Z. , Albin Roger L.
Published: March 2009

N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated excitotoxicity is implicated as a proximate cause of neurodegeneration in Huntington Disease (HD). This hypothesis has not been tested rigorouslyin vivo. NMDAR–NR2B subunits are a major NR2 subunit expressed by striatal medium spiny neurons that degenerate in HD. To test the excitotoxic hypothesis, we crossed a well validated murine genetic model of HD (Hdh(CAG)150) with a transgenic line overexpressing NMDAR–NR2B subunits. In the resulting double-mutant line, we show exacerbation of selective striatal neuron degeneration. This is the first directin vivoevidence of NR2B–NMDAR-mediated excitotoxicity in the context of HD. Our results are consistent with previous suggestions that direct and/or indirect interactions of mutant huntingtin with NMDARs are a proximate cause of neurodegeneration in HD.
Indicadores de gênero da assistência de enfermagem às mulheres
Authors: Nascimento Enilda Rosendo do , Oliva Talita Andrade
Published: March 2009

O texto apresenta um estudo realizado em uma unidade assistencial de saúde de Salvador/ Bahia, com o propósito de construir indicadores de qualidade para a assistência de enfermagem a partir de uma perspectiva de gênero. A construção dos indicadores deu-se através de uma investigação que analisou as concepções de mulheres sobre a assistência pré-natal de enfermagem a elas prestadas, a partir da identificação de ações promotoras de autonomia, dignificação e participação. A coleta de dados realizou-se através de entrevista semi-estruturada a 14 mulheres usuárias da assistência pré-natal de enfermagem que aceitaram participar do estudo e tinham sido atendidas por uma enfermeira em gravidez (es) anterior (es) ou durante a gravidez atual. Foram construídos dois tipos de indicadores de gênero da assistência de enfermagem: indicadores práticos e indicadores estratégicos de gênero.
Educação em saúde como estratégia para garantir a dignidade da pessoa humana
Authors: Shiratori Kaneji , Costa Tadeu Lessa da , Formozo Gláucia Alexandre , Silva Simone de Aguiar da
Published: March 2009

Trata-se de um estudo teórico-reflexivo, vinculado ao projeto de pesquisa institucional intitulado "Responsabilidade Social da Enfermagem: do significado de pessoa aos paradigmas bioéticos"ª. Objetivo: discutir a educação em saúde como estratégia para garantir a dignidade da pessoa humana. Metodologia: pautou-se na abordagem qualitativa, tendo em vista a identificação e análise dos elementos teóricos obtidos nos levantamentos bibliográficos para a fundamentação do estudo que se constitui como um dos aspectos preliminares da pesquisa. Resultados: como elementos teóricos identificamos: dignidade humana, sua relação com a humanização, direitos humanos fundamentais e as declarações internacionais sobre a sua garantia; agir humano; estratégia preliminar para garantia da dignidade da pessoa humana. Conclusão: ao promover a saúde, mediante estratégias dialógicas de educação em saúde, a enfermagem respeita a pessoa humana em sua dignidade, liberdade e autonomia, observando e garantindo os direitos direitos humanos fundamentais e concorrendo para a humanização dos espaços nos quais se desenvolvem os serviços de saúde.
Endomarketing: ensaio sobre possibilidades de inovação na gestão em enfermagem
Authors: Weirich Claci Fátima , Munari Denize Bouttelet , Bezerra Ana Lúcia Queiroz
Published: March 2009

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar o endomarketing como ferramenta para o enfermeiro no processo de gestão, tendo em vista o contexto atual de mudanças no setor saúde, que exige também o desenvolvimento de habilidades que estão diretamente relacionadas à introdução de novas tecnologias e formas de organização do trabalho. Nossa reflexão deixa alguns pontos importantes a serem analisados por enfermeiros e educadores, na busca de melhores caminhos e alternativas para a formação de enfermeiros com maior satisfação profissional, com competência para gerenciar serviços de saúde. O grande desafio do endomarketing é, portanto, conciliar os objetivos e interesses do público interno com as necessidades e expectativas do público externo da organização.
O processo histórico do trabalho de enfermagem no município de Cuiabá - Mato Grosso
Authors: Moreira Leocarlos Cartaxo , Ramos Flávia Regina Souza
Published: March 2009

O estudo trata-se de uma pesquisa histórica, cujo objetivo foi historicizar a singularidade do processo de trabalho de enfermagem no município de Cuiabá/MT. Os dados foram coletados a partir de fontes primárias e secundárias. Pelos dados analisados a enfermagem surgiu com o atendimento e cuidados aos enfermos, prestados por pessoas voluntárias, negros e escravos. A primeira instituição criada foi a Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Cuiabá. A assistência de enfermagem era prestada por religiosas, leigos e escravos, calcados na abnegação, acolhimento e apadrinhamento. Sucessivos eventos importantes como a implantação da ABEn/MT, o Curso de Graduação em Enfermagem e o COREN/MT marcaram a trajetória do trabalho de enfermagem, os quais, estiveram vinculados ao empresariamento na área da saúde no contexto estudado.
Mineralogia e cristalografia da fração argila de horizontes coesos de solos nos tabuleiros costeiros
Authors: Giarola Neyde Fabíola Balarezo , Lima Herdjania Veras de , Romero Ricardo Espíndola , Brinatti André Maurício , Silva Alvaro Pires da
Published: March 2009

A coesão de horizontes de solos do Brasil vem sendo associada, principalmente, a fatores físicos e químicos inter-relacionados, mas a influência das propriedades mineralógicas e cristalográficas dos minerais da fração argila também foi aventada por alguns pesquisadores. Neste trabalho, testou-se a hipótese de que a fração argila de horizontes coesos de solos do Sedimento Barreiras da faixa dos Tabuleiros Costeiros é dominantemente caulinítica e apresenta elevado grau de cristalinidade e ordenamento, o que pode favorecer o ajuste face a face dos cristais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características mineralógicas e cristalográficas dos minerais da fração argila de horizontes coesos provenientes de solos de sedimentos do Grupo Barreiras e uma possível contribuição para a ocorrência do caráter coeso. Para isso, foram analisados cinco horizontes coesos e um não-coeso de solos distribuídos ao longo da faixa dos Tabuleiros Costeiros. Também foi incluída, como referência, uma caulinita com elevado grau de cristalinidade. Todos os perfis foram analisados para classificação taxonômica e localização dos horizontes de interesse. Nas amostras dos horizontes selecionados, foram removidos a matéria orgânica e os óxidos. Após a dispersão de partículas, a fração argila foi individualizada, tratada e analisada por difração de raios X (DRX) para determinar os minerais e o grau de ordem/desordem estrutural, segundo o Método Especialista de Plançon & Zacharie (1990). Todos os horizontes coesos apresentaram caulinitas com grau de ordenamento estrutural similar ao do horizonte não-coeso e inferior à caulinita de referência, o que não permitiu associar o empacotamento da fração argila com a manifestação do caráter coeso nos horizontes estudados, a partir das avalioações obtidas pelo método utilizado.
Caracterização química e espectroscópica de ácidos húmicos e fúlvicos isolados da camada superficial de latossolos brasileiros
Authors: Dobbss Leonardo Barros , Rumjaneck Victor Marcos , Baldotto Marihus Altoé , Velloso Ary Carlos Xavier , Canellas Luciano Pasqualoto
Published: March 2009

A determinação de características estruturais das substâncias húmicas (SH) é essencial para o entendimento do comportamento da química de superfície dos solos altamente intemperizados. Ácidos húmicos (AH) e fúlvicos (AF) obtidos no horizonte superficial de sete Latossolos de diferentes regiões do Brasil foram caracterizados mediante a análise da composição elementar, da acidez total e carboxílica, da capacidade de oxidação e por métodos espectroscópicos. As substâncias húmicas apresentaram elevado grau de oxidação, acidez e massa molecular relativamente baixas, caracterizando a matéria orgânica alcalina solúvel como bastante reativa. Os AF apresentaram menor teor de C e maior de O do que os AH. Foram observados valores elevados da relação entre absorvância em 465 e 665 nm (E4/E6) e a massa molar média foi estimada em 1.106 e 618 g mol-1 para AH e AF, respectivamente. A menor massa molar estimada para os AF foi compatível com sua menor complexidade química revelada pelos espectros de IV-TF, que apresentaram menor número de bandas de absorção bem definidas. A ressonância magnética nuclear (RMN ¹H) mostrou a presença de H mais hidrofóbico nos AH e de H ligado a átomos de O em maior quantidade nos AF, compatível com sua maior acidez e, portanto, solubilidade em qualquer valor de pH. Apesar da mesma funcionalidade química encontrada tanto nos AH como nos AF, a análise estatística permitiu separar a maioria desses ácidos, indicando a presença de frações humificadas de natureza química individual.
Uso de geomantas no controle da erosão superficial hídrica em um talude em corte de estrada
Authors: Fernandes Leonardo Silva , Griffith James Jackson , Fonseca Dilermando Miranda da , Dias Luiz Eduardo , Ruiz Hugo Alberto
Published: March 2009

Considerando que o Brasil e muitos outros países tropicais necessitam de aperfeiçoar métodos de recobrimento de taludes, tornam-se necessários estudos que aprimorem a utilização e a eficácia das diferentes alternativas do mercado. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o desempenho das geomantas comerciais antierosivas MacMat®, Fibrax® e Tela Biotêxtil® na proteção do solo contra a erosão superficial hídrica. O experimento foi realizado em um talude em corte de estrada na cidade de Viçosa (MG), em meados de 2003, e foi avaliado entre dezembro e março de 2004. Para isso, realizou-se uma análise do escoamento superficial baseada em oito eventos chuvosos comparando-se as variáveis massa de sólidos e volume de suspensão de água + solo escoado em uma combinação de geomantas com ou sem vegetação (mistura de espécies de gramíneas e leguminosas). Os tratamentos testados foram: Tratamento 1 - testemunha (solo exposto); Tratamento 2 - Tela Biotêxtil® com plantas; Tratamento 3 - MacMat® sem plantas; Tratamento 4 - MacMat® com plantas; Tratamento 5 - Fibrax® sem plantas; e Tratamento 6 - Fibrax® com plantas. A análise estatística utilizada foi o teste de Tukey a 5 %. Embora não tenham sido encontradas diferenças significativas entre os tratamentos aplicados devido ao elevado coeficiente de variação, pode-se constatar que a utilização das mantas proporcionou a redução da perda de solos. O tratamento seis foi o mais eficiente para impedir a perda de solo. Entretanto, quando esta geomanta foi utilizada sem vegetação (Tratamento 5), permitiu o maior volume de suspensão escoada. Concluiu-se que as geomantas aumentaram a proteção do solo contra a erosão superficial hídrica e a incorporação de vegetação melhorou os resultados em todos os tratamentos.
Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos
Authors: Gabriel Adriane L. , Kommers Glaucia D. , Trost Maria E. , Barros Claudio S.L. , Pereira Daniela B. , Schwendler Stela E. , Santurio Janio M.
Published: March 2009

Setenta e seis bovinos, sem raça definida, jovens, de ambos os sexos, apresentaram lesões cutâneas multifocais nodulares, ulceradas e crostosas nas faces medial e lateral dos membros anteriores e posteriores, região ventral do pescoço, esterno e cauda. A doença ocorreu no verão e as lesões foram observadas nas regiões do corpo que ficavam grande tempo em contato com a água em canais de irrigação. Histologicamente observaram-se múltiplos granulomas e piogranulomas contendo escassas imagens negativas de hifas na área central, as quais foram melhor evidenciadas através da técnica de metenamina nitrato de prata de Grocott. O diagnóstico etiológico definitivo foi baseado na técnica de imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo policlonal anti-Pythium insidiosum. Adicionalmente, foi realizado o teste de ELISA indireto. Surtos de pitiose cutânea bovina são incomuns e, particularmente neste relato, todos os animais afetados tiveram cura espontânea das lesões dentro de duas a três semanas.
Monitoring bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection status in dairy herds
Authors: Diéguez Francisco J. , Yus Eduardo , Sanjuán María L. , Vilar María J. , Arnaiz Ignacio
Published: March 2009

This study was designed to assess the relationship between antibodies against bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) determined in the bulk tank milk (BTM) and the within-herd seroprevalence. We also assessed the efficiency of measuring antibody levels in BTM samples to monitor BVDV infection status in a herd. In the 81 farms included in the study, BTM samples were obtained and blood samples withdrawn from all cattle older than one year. The infection status was then determined in serum and milk using a commercial blocking ELISA based on the detection of anti-p80 antibodies. Apart from these baseline serum and milk samples, another BTM sample was collected from each herd 9 months later, and a third BTM sample obtained 9 months after this. In these second and third milk samples, anti-BVDV antibodies were determined using the same ELISA kit. Statistical tests revealed good agreement between herd seroprevalences (% seropositive animals in the herd) and the antibody levels detected in the BTM samples. During the 18 months of follow-up, the farms with persistently infected cattle at the study outset (14.8% of the herds) showed a significant decrease in BTM antibody titers after virus clearance. Conversely, a significant increase in BTM antibody levels was observed in the herds infected with BVDV during the follow-up period. Our findings indicate that monitoring antibody levels in the BTM is a useful method of identifying changes in the BVDV infection status of a herd.
Avaliação in vitro da eficácia de desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós-dippingfrente amostras de Staphylococcus spp. isoladas de mastite bovina
Authors: Medeiros Elizabeth Sampaio de , Santos Marcos Veiga dos , Pinheiro Júnior José Wilton , Faria Eduardo Bento de , Wanderley Guido Gomes , Teles José Andreey Almeida , Mota Rinaldo Aparecido
Published: March 2009

Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar a sensibilidade in vitro de Staphylococcus spp.frente a alguns desinfetantes comerciais utilizados no pré e pós-dipping em vacas leiteiras. Foram testados um total de 60 isolados de Staphylococcus spp. identificados como S. aureus (50) e Staphylococcus coagulase positiva (10) recuperados de glândulas mamárias de vacas com mastite subclínica procedentes das regiões Metropolitana do Recife, Agreste e Zona da Mata do Estado de Pernambuco. O estudo da eficácia dos desinfetantes utilizados no pré e pós-dipping foi realizado utilizando-se os seguintes princípios ativos: cloro (2,5%), iodo (0,57%), clorexidine (2,0%), amônia quaternária (4,0%) e ácido lático (2,0%) em quatro tempos distintos (15", 30", 60" e 300"). Observou-se que 100% de S. aureus foram sensíveis ao iodo, 93,3% sensíveis a clorexidine, 80% sensíveis a amônia, 35,6% sensíveis ao ácido lático e 97,8% resistentes ao cloro no tempo de 60". Com relação a Staphylococcus coagulase positiva (SCP), 100% dos isolados foram sensíveis ao iodo, 81,8% sensíveis a amônia quaternária, 99,9% sensíveis ao ácido lático, 72,7% sensíveis a clorexidine e 100% resistentes ao cloro no tempo de 60". Conclui-se que a maior atividade desinfetante in vitro foi verificada para o iodo e clorexidine frente a S. aureus e do iodo e ácido lático frente aos SCP e que há necessidade de avaliação periódica dos desinfetantes utilizados nas propriedades leiteiras nas regiões estudadas, pois, existem variações no perfil de sensibilidade e resistência aos desinfetantes que podem comprometer os programas de controle da mastite bovina causada por Staphylococcus spp.
Dengue: twenty-five years since reemergence in Brazil
Authors: Teixeira Maria Glória , Costa Maria da Conceição N. , Barreto Florisneide , Barreto Maurício Lima
Published: March 2009

This article revisits the epidemiology of dengue in Brazil, 25 years after its reemergence in the country, discussing the main determinants and implications for its control. The authors emphasize the clinical and epidemiological peculiarities of this viral disease in Brazil, which leads the world in both the number of cases reported and risk of occurrence of the disease. The article presents the changes occurring in the dengue epidemiological pattern in recent years, like the sudden age shift in the incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever, and discusses possible associated factors. The article focuses specifically on the epidemic in Rio de Janeiro in 2008, this episode's impact on the international community, and the fear that the disease could spread to Europe. The authors conclude that the current situation emphasizes the need for the international scientific community to renew its efforts to generate knowledge allowing improvement and progress in the development of new tools and strategies for dengue prevention.
Información, conocimiento y percepción sobre el riesgo de contraer el dengue en Argentina: dos experiencias de intervención para generar estrategias locales de control
Authors: Schweigmann Nicolas , Rizzotti Andrea , Castiglia Gabriela , Gribaudo Fabio , Marcos Edgardo , Burroni Nora , Freire Gabriela , D'Onofrio Vanesa , Oberlander Sara , Schillaci Héctor , Gómez Sandra , Maldonado Santiago , Serrano Claudia
Published: March 2009

Con objetivos de prevención de dengue, promoción de la salud e investigación-acción se desarrollaron dos experiencias en zonas piloto de Buenos Aires y Vicente López. En cada zona se identificaron referentes comunitarios, gubernamentales y no gubernamentales. Se realizó un diagnóstico entomológico (mediante ovitrampas), ambiental (con observaciones en terreno, encuestas y talleres), y social (utilizando cuestionarios, entrevistas y reuniones). Se construyeron espacios de diálogo y trabajo conjunto con la comunidad, generando acciones participativas y empoderamiento. Se fomentó el ordenamiento ambiental y la reducción de criaderos de mosquitos a través de incorporación de temas ambientales y prevención de enfermedades vectoriales a los currícula escolares; talleres vecinales de difusión; capacitación de promotoras ambientales para transmitir información y para capacitar a pares; planificación de proyectos ambientales de la comunidad. Se entró en los domicilio, buscando integrar a sus habitantes en el diagnóstico ambiental propio y comunitario. Se registraron diferencias significativas entre conocimientos y prácticas sociales, para ambas zonas piloto, pero no por nivel socioeconómico. Las escuelas y los entornos de promoción de salud resultaron ser los principales referentes comunitarios para fomentar prácticas ambientales saludables.